Advantage Magazine | August 2023

CHAMBER PRESIDENT

Ryan Parsons | 507-288-1122

SENIOR DIRECTOR, MEMBERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT

Kali Aldrich | 507-424-5665

WORKFORCE INITIATIVES & RYT NETWORK DIRECTOR

Kaytlyn Anzivino | 507-424-5662

Chamber Staff

PUBLIC AFFAIRS & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Jonathon Krull | 507-424-5677

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Tim Shea | 507-424-5663

EVENTS & PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Ally Sheehan | 507-424-5687

Chamber Board Officers

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Cherie Thurlow | 507-288-1122

COMMUNICATIONS & DESIGN DIRECTOR

Sophia van Oss | 507-424-5661

CHAIR OF THE BOARD

John Eckerman | RSP Architects

VICE CHAIR

Scott Eggert | Broadway Plaza

AT LARGE

Steve Dunn | Taco JED

TREASURER

Jessica Eidem | IBM Corporation

Chamber Board Members

SECRETARY

Dr. Christine Beech | Copiavia

SANTHI ARUNACHALAM

Xylo Technologies Inc.

CHAD BEHNKEN

Hamilton Real Estate

DR. JEFFREY BOYD

Rochester Community and Technical College

DR. LORI CARRELL

University of Minnesota Rochester

HEATHER DONOVAN

Sterling State Bank

ABEL GARCIA

Remodeling D.L, LLC

DOUG HOLTAN

Mayo Clinic

JARETT JONES

Merchants Bank

MARGE KELLEY

Gillette Pepsi of Rochester

OMAR NUR

Somali American Social Services Association

SYLWIA BUJAK OLIVER

125 LIVE

DAVID PEDERSON

Dunlap & Seeger

NIKKI MENSING

Olmsted Medical Center

GWEN STEVENS

People’s Energy Cooperative

Celebrating the Entrepreneurial Spirit of Rochester’s Youth

A sweet day of success for youth on Lemonade Day!

Remember the days when people asked you, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Many of you answered, “I want to start my own business” or “I want to be an entrepreneur and invent something.”

Today, more and more Rochester-area youth are being given the opportunity to experience what it’s like to be a full-fledged entrepreneur through Lemonade Day, a nationwide experiential learning program, which teaches local youth entrepreneurial and life skills as they learn how to start their very own business.

Lemonade Day is a free, fun, experiential learning program that teaches local youth entrepreneurial and life skills as they learn how to start their very own business. “They learn how to develop a business and experience all the aspects of developing and maintaining a business such as creating a product, establishing a budget, designing a marketing plan, and so much more,” Ally Sheehan, events and program director at the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce and Lemonade Day city director says.

Each participant receives a free entrepreneur workbook and a mentor guide that helps walk them through the process. Leading up to Lemonade Day, which took place this year on Saturday, June 10, participants followed along in a workbook and explored lessons that helped them make decisions about their business.

The money they made from their stand was theirs to keep – allowing them to determine if they wanted to spend their profit, save their profit, and/or share some of their profit with a charity of their choice. Some participants even chose to do a little bit of all three.

“This is the second year for Lemonade Day in the Rochester community and wow, what a sweet success it was,” Sheehan says. There were over 450 registered participants, which was a huge increase from the Chamber’s first Lemonade Day in 2022.

“We are very excited that it is becoming a program that people want to be a part of year to year," Sheehan says. "Participants are already saying how excited they are for next year and what they will do different with their lemonade, stand, and marketing,”

This year, Molly and Nolan Reynolds, a brother-sister duo, developed their idea for “Molly and Nolan’s Rainbow LeMoNaid.”

“We wanted to give people different flavors of lemonade that looked good and tasted good,” Molly says. “Since Lemonade Day took place in Pride Month, we also thought rainbow colors were a way that our lemonade stand could help people by making a donation to the Trevor Project from our sales,” adds Nolan. The Trevor Project is a nonprofit organization focused on suicide prevention efforts among LGBTQ+ youth. “It was fun to meet so many new people,” Molly says. “We

liked getting to talk with people about our lemonade stand and letting them taste our different flavors and tell us their favorite.”

Nolan added that the siblings found creating the different recipes for their flavors to be the most challenging aspect of their product. “We made lemonade, lime lemonade, blueberry lemonade and strawberry lemonade, and each flavor took a lot of testing and tasting with our ingredients,” he says.

The Reynolds’ stand epitomizes what Lemonade Day is all about – evaluating product concepts, testing ideas, and interacting with others who can provide their feedback on a lemonade product’s appeal.

As Lemonade Day City Director, Sheehan’s favorite part about orchestrating Lemonade Day from year to year is visiting the same stands as last year and seeing how the participants transformed their stands from a table with just lemonade the first year, to a fully constructed stand with lemonade, handmade crafts, and a few snacks to sell as well.

“Not only does this program help young entrepreneurs on starting their own business," Sheehan says. "It really brings together the community for a fun day of purchasing lemonade from over 80+ stands on Lemonade Day.”

"This program not only helps young entrepreneurs on starting their own business, it really brings together the community for a fun day of purchasing lemonade"

2023 Rochester MN Young Entrepreneur of the Year

Congratulations Aditi!

Of course, the Rochester’s Lemonade Day couldn’t happen without the strong support from the Chamber and community businesses, including the following:

• Main Squeeze Sponsor – Think Bank

• Fresh Squeeze Sponsor – Altra Federal Credit Union, Hy-vee, Mayo Clinic

• Lemon Drop Sponsor – Olmsted Medical Center, Rochester Athletic Club, SCHEELS, Wings Credit Union, Workshop Food Hall & Bar

• Lemon Twist Sponsor – Chip Shots, F & M Community Bank, Home Federal, MetroNet, People’s Food Coop, People’s Energy Cooperative, Rochester Women’s Magazine, Sylvan Learning

• Radio Media Sponsor – Townquare Media

• Media Sponsor – KTTC

“Lemonade Day was a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about and practice entrepreneurship and financial literacy. Equipping the next generation to be moneysavvy is something we feel strongly about at Think, so serving as the Main Squeeze sponsor of this event was a perfect fit for us,” says Megan Malugani, vice president of corporate communications at Think Bank. “Plus, our employees and their kids ‘squeezed the day’ and had a blast holding lemonade stands. It was a wonderful day and we are so happy the Chamber brought this program to our community!”

The Lemonade Day team is looking forward to year three and the hope is continued growth for years to come. “This program is all about the youth and helping them take a concept to execution on the day of Lemonade Day,” says

Sheehan, who will be attending the national Lemonade Day City Director Conference where she will meet other city directors from across the world to gain knowledge, brainstorm new ideas, and hear how other communities elevate their Lemonade Day.

Sheehan says she is looking forward to this conference and bringing back the ideas to implement for the years ahead!

save the date for the next Lemonade Day on Saturday, June 8, 2024!

Meet the Member: Fagan Studios

Each month, we hear from a Chamber member about their offerings, history, a unique fact, and their business outlook

Every photograph tells a story but we wanted to know the story behind the photography studio! We spoke with Shawn and Michelle Fagan, Owners of Fagan Studios, to learn more.

Q: Tell us about Fagan Studios . What does your company offer to the Rochester region?

A: Michelle and I moved to Rochester and started Fagan Studios 20 years ago, purchasing our downtown building 16 years ago to house our studio. We serve the Rochester area through our specialization in commercial

portraits, high school senior portraits, and family portraits. Our commercial work has grown over the years as we understand the importance of a “personal brand” and look to dial in a client’s portrait image to help elevate their business brand. We also love our downtown and strive to see it grow and become a more vibrant area for the community and its guests. We volunteer with a number of different boards and committees in town, showing up and contributing to seeing our community thrive. We also operate two other small businesses in town, Café Aquí (a beautiful coffee shop/all day café in Sargent’s on 2nd) and Studio324 (a private event venue in the first floor of our downtown building).

Q: How did it start for Fagan Studios?

A : Michelle and I both studied photojournalism at South Dakota State University. While still in college, we started photographing weddings and portraits together. We continued to do so while we worked for newspapers in South Dakota, Utah and Iowa. After a couple years in Iowa, we were getting ready for our next adventure when we became pregnant with our first son. We felt there was no

Photo by Dean Riggott Photography

better time than the present to take the step from the edge of that proverbial cliff and leapt into fulfilling our dream of operating our own portrait studio! So with a four-month-old son, we left our full time jobs in Iowa, moved into Michelle’s dad’s basement in NW Rochester where she grew up, and both went full-time with starting Fagan Studios in Rochester!

Q: Fagan Studios has been a member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce for 16 years. What do you find valuable in your membership to the organization?

A: The personal connections we’ve created with other individuals is what we’ve found to be the most valuable part of our Chamber membership! We have met so many friends through the Chamber and those friendships then provide community and connection. And of course, people like to then do business with people they know, so there’s that benefit of course too. But we never go into a gathering thinking how can our business benefit from us as the main goal, the main goal is to connect with other people, and be a connection to others. The Chamber’s Leadership Greater Rochester has been the most valuable program we’ve been a part of through the Chamber. I was fortunate to be part of the class of 2016 (best class ever!), chaired the class of 2020 (that class is up there too!), and currently serve on the LGR steering committee. I can’t recommend LGR high enough to everyone, no matter your age or experience, you have something you can learn and contribute, so apply to be part of the next class if you’re interested in growing as a leader, learning more about Rochester, and connecting to your community!

Q: What is a unique fact people should know about Fagan Studios?

A: We’ve been part of shoots that took us literally around the world once…we’ve photographed nearly 1,000 weddings before “retiring” that part of the business…this is a tough one, I think I’m going to go with: We’ve had the pleasure of waking up every day for 20 years to do what we absolutely LOVE to do! So to see that passion and connection come full circle, to the point that we’re now doing senior portraits of brides’ and grooms’ kids that we photographed in our early years in Rochester along with seniors now that we photographed their new born portraits 17/18 years ago…it’s a privilege to have been a part of so many families’ lives, documenting momentous occasions for our clients!

Q: What is the outlook for your business and industry?

A: The photography landscape has certainly changed over the 20 years we’ve been operating our business in Rochester. People, especially our high school students, take an incredible number of photos every day of each other, of themselves. But families are having fewer and fewer actual prints of those photos, if at all. So their images live/die on a hard drive or the cloud, rarely to be seen. At Fagan Studios, we’re all about the tangible, having a print or Art Book to hold in your hands, a beautiful artful canvas hanging on the wall - that will be cherished for generations; that’s what we create for, that’s why we continue to hone our craft and serve our clients with incredible photography! It’s not just for the instant digital gratification of the now, but for the future value and enjoyment too.

To learn more about Fagan Studios , visit www.faganstudios.com

HOSTED BY

AM Espresso is a monthly Networking PLUS event brought to you by the Chamber. Come join fellow Chamber and community members to expand your network, promote your business, and enjoy delicious breakfast refreshments. We believe there is value for all in building a supportive business community. As the local economy shifts towards recovery, it is more important than ever to interact with each other to share ideas and best practices.

This month, join us at PossAbilities! PossAbilities is an exceptional agency of caring leaders and experts providing innovative, person-centered supports and services for people with disabilities. Their mission is to create opportunities for children and adults with disabilities to contribute and connect with the community.

Date: Friday, August 4, 2023

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: PossAbilities, ArtAbilities Building, 1808 3rd Ave. SE, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration requested

Register here: https://bit.ly/3VMT8rd

HOSTED BY

Join us for Business after Hours (BAH), a monthly networking function which brings professionals together to network and build valuable business relationships. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while connecting with a variety of businesses and organizations operating in the greater Rochester area. This event is a great opportunity to increase your organization’s visibility and generate productive business leads.

Premier Bank is a family owned bank with global reach. They hire, serve, and give back to individuals and organizations in their communities. They are grateful for Premier Partnerships; together we make a difference with vision, values, a can-do attitude, and unyielding faith.

Come and connect, expand your network, and build community at the Premier Bank Block Party!

Date: Tuesday, August 15, 2023

Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm

Location: Premier Bank Rochester Downtown 421 1st Ave. SW, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration requested

Register here: https://bit.ly/3CuUcHq

Kickoff the Weekend With Us

Join us for lunch and connect with fellow Chamber members

Start your weekend with the Chamber team! We welcome members to join us for lunch and an opportunity to connect with fellow members on a Friday, August 11th at the last Chamber Weekend Kickoff of the summer..

The Chamber will be grilling brats and serving lunch from 11:30am-1:00pm at the Saint Mary’s University - Rochester Campus. Quantities are limited and registration is requested and greatly appreciated. Be sure to bring members of your team to start your weekend with a brat and networking!

Date: Friday, August 11, 2023

Time: 11:30am-1:00pm

Location: Saint Mary’s University - Rochester Campus, 2900 19th Street NW, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration required

Register here: https://bit.ly/43iVq4l

Event Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR HOST SPONSOR LUNCH SPONSOR DRINK SPONSOR

Are you a new member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, or a long-time member needing a refresh? Join us for our Chamber 101 event in the Rochester Chamber Conference Room on Wednesday, August 16th from 3:30pm4:30pm.

This event will help educate you on your membership and highlight the resources and tools that we provide to help you meet your business goals and objectives!

Snacks, refreshments, and door prizes will be provided. We look forward to seeing you there!

Date: Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Time: 3:30pm-4:30pm

Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, 220 Broadway Ave S, Suite 100, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration required

Register here: https://bit.ly/3pXl2Fq

Event Sponsor

WOMEN’S ROUNDTABLE

Develop relationships within this supportive group of women leaders who meet the third Friday morning of each month. The Women’s Roundtable provides a small, safe environment for women to: practice and refine skills, discuss challenges specific to women in positions of leadership, learn together and empower each other to take risks. Join us for a fun, engaging program driven by the needs of the group.

Date: Friday, August 18, 2023

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Conference Room, 220 S Broadway, Suite 100 , Rochester

Admission: Free, registration required

Featured Speaker: Joyce Lehman, Program Coordinator for Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota Caregiver & Companion Services

Register here: https://bit.ly/44K5G5Y

Event Sponsors

Improving Employee Engagement

Leading to happiness, productivity, and high company morale

Employee Engagement

Best Practices

When employee engagement is high, employees are satisfied with their impact and feel the sense of connection to their performance and the company they work for. This also leads to happiness, productivity, and high company morale.

Are you looking for better ways to improve your employee engagement in the workplace? Join the Chamber team and Meyers Workforce Solutions LLC for our next Business Development Exchange (BDX) highlighting employee engagement best practices. Door prizes, refreshments, and snacks will be provided.

SPEAKER:

Aaron Meyers, CEO & Founder, Meyers Workforce Solutions LLC

In Aaron’s 23 years of service in the Army and three years as Transcend Engagement’s President & Lead Consultant, he elevated workplace successes and employee productivity by thousands.

AGENDA:

• 3:15pm Registration

• 3:30pm: Welcome & Sponsor/Speaker Recognition

• 3:35-4:10pm: Speaker, Aaron Meyers

• 4:10pm-4:30pm: Q & A, door prizes

• 4:30pm: Tour of Bowlocity

Date: Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Time: 3:30pm-4:30pm

Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, 220 Broadway Ave S, Suite 100, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration required

Register here: https://bit.ly/3OiprMx

Event Sponsors

Federal Legislation Update

Upcoming Eggs & Issues: From D.C. to Rochester, Congressman Finstad and the US Chamber

From D.C. to Rochester, Congressman Finstad and the US Chamber

Eggs and Issues is a long-standing series presented by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce that provides opportunities for member businesses to learn about and discuss the issues that impact their businesses and the community.

The latest installment of the Eggs and Issues series will feature Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and John Kirchner, Vice President, Midwest Region of the US Chamber. Join us on Tuesday, August 22nd, 2023 from 8:30am-10:00am as Congressman Finstad shares insight into his role at the Capitol and the US Chamber provides updates on relevant legislation to the business community.

AGENDA:

• 8:00am: Registration

• 8:30am: Welcome and Introduction

• 8:35am: Issues Impacting Southern Minnesota:

Congressman Brad Finstad

• 8:55am: Federal Legislative Review and Preview: John Kirchner, Vice President, Midwest Region, US Chamber

• 9:15am: Q&A

• 9:40am: Networking

*Agenda subject to change

Date: Tuesday, August 22, 2023

Time: 8:30am - 10:00am

Location: Two Discovery Square, 209 5th St SW, Rochester

Admission: $20 for members, $40 for general admission, registration required by August 17th

Register here: https://bit.ly/43LXX6H

Event Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSORS

SESSION SPONSORS

Upcoming Young Talent Events

The RYT Network (Rochester Area Young Talent Network) is launching in September

UPCOMING INFORMATION SESSION

Join the Chamber team for an information session to learn more about the RYT Network and how to engage with the program!

This event will kickoff at 4pm with light networking, a brief RYT Network presentation, and time for questions.

Social hour will follow downtown.

Date: Thursday, August 10, 2023

Time: 4:00pm

Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

Conference Room, 220 S Broadway, Suite 100 , Rochester

Admission: Free, emailed RSVP requested

RSVP to Kaytlyn Anzivino at: kaytlyna@rochestermnchamber.com

SEPTEMBER EVENTS

The RYT Network will host new networking events starting in September including:

• Creating Connections - Speed Networking: Looking to expand your circle? Join us for our Speed Networking event in September. Speed Networking is a fun fast-pace way to meet and connect with young professionals in the Rochester community.

• Industry Engagement - CEO Connections: Looking to learn from a leader? CEO Connections is a series where community executives and leaders share their personal and professional insights regarding their own paths to success!

More information to come soon!

Read more about the RYT Network on page 23.

HOSTED BY

AM Espresso is a monthly Networking PLUS event brought to you by the Chamber. Come join fellow Chamber and community members to expand your network, promote your business, and enjoy delicious breakfast refreshments. We believe there is value for all in building a supportive business community. As the local economy shifts towards recovery, it is more important than ever to interact with each other to share ideas and best practices.

This month, join us at Gillette Pepsi Rochester! Gillette Pepsi is proud to deliver many of the brands ranked #1 in their category; from world-wide recognized brands to local Bubblr’s. Their purpose is to invest in their employees, customers, and their communities by supplying the beverages that people love.

Date: Friday, September 8, 2023

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Gillette Pepsi, 3393 Commercial Dr. SW, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration requested

Register here: https://bit.ly/3JZZQpa

HOSTED BY

Join us for Business after Hours (BAH), a monthly networking function which brings professionals together to network and build valuable business relationships. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while connecting with a variety of businesses and organizations operating in the greater Rochester area. This event is a great opportunity to increase your organization’s visibility and generate productive business leads.

This month, join us at Reagan Outdoor Advertising! Reagan Outdoor Advertising is a proud, family-owned business that operates true to their values and integrity. They provide a powerful, unavoidable medium through which their clients build their business and their brand.

Date: Thursday, September 21, 2023

Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm

Location: Reagan Outdoor Advertising, 3185 41st St NW, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration requested

Register here: https://bit.ly/3JZ26Nx

Get Ready for a Kickin’ Good Time

We are excited for the 2nd annual Chamber Kickball Tournament

Event Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR

This kickin’ good time event is a great way to get Chamber members and their staff out of the office to enjoy a fun day of networking, building relationships, and bonding as a team, all while playing a friendly game of kickball! We welcome all skill levels for this single elimination bracket.

Awards will be presented to 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and best dressed team.

Don’t have a team but want to come enjoy the day with us? Come cheer on the teams and network with others in attendance.

Date: Tuesday, September 12, 2023

Time: 11:00am - 5:00pm

Location: McQuillan Fields, 1655 Marion Rd. SE, Rochester

Admission: SOLD OUT! Registration required

Learn more here: https://bit.ly/3BEACbu

DUGOUT SPONSORS

BASE SPONSORS

MUSIC SPONSOR

The Higher Education Outlook

Connecting business and education leaders for collaboration and engagement

AGENDA

Student Perspective Panel

Higher Education Leadership Panel:

• Dr. Jeffery Boyd, President, Rochester Community and Technical College

• Dr. Lori Carrell, Chancellor, University of Minnesota Rochester

• Dr. Max Bonilla, Provost and Dean of Faculties, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

• To Be Announced, Winona State University

*Addition agenda contributors to be announced

The greater Rochester area possesses a strong and engaged collection of higher education institutions. These organizations play an important role in training the future workforce and next generation of leaders. In addition, these educational institutions employ a significant number of people in the region. Due to this, the necessity of the business community maintaining a close relationship with higher ed is crucial for future workforce development.

The Higher Education Outlook is an opportunity for the region’s higher education institutions to share an outlook on their campus, ranging from updates on projects and initiatives, to identifying emerging workforce trends. This annual event connects business and education leaders to discuss collaboration and engagement opportunities between the private and educational sectors.

Join us on Wednesday, October 4th from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. as students and leadership from local higher education institutions share the outlook on higher education in the Rochester region.

Date: Wednesday, October 4, 2023

Time: 8:30am -10:030am

Location: Rochester Community and Technical College, Heintz Center Commons, 1926 Collegeview Rd E, Rochester

Admission: $30 for members, $45 for general admission, registration required, table sponsorships available, email jkrull@rochestermnchamber.com if interested

Register here: https://bit.ly/3rroEzR

Event Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR

HOST SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

TABLE SPONSOR

Wells Fargo

2023 STEAM Summit

Encourage students to pursue science, technology, engineering, art and math careers

Event Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR

The STEAM Summit encourages more than 1,000 middle and high school students to pursue science, technology, engineering, art, and math careers by connecting them to business and higher educational institutions that offer STEAM courses in a highly interactive, hands-on format.

The future success of the Southeast Minnesota economy depends on a well-prepared pipeline of students with the education and skills needed to keep the region’s business and industry competitive. This summit brings together over 50+ business, higher education, local government, and our community to motivate and prepare students for an increasingly competitive global marketplace.

Date: Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Time: 7:00am - 3:00pm

Location: RCTC Regional Sports Center 851 30th Ave SE, Rochester

Admission: Exhibitor registration is free thanks to the generosity of sponsors, registration required

Register here to participate as an interactive exhibitor: https://bit.ly/456MW1F

HOST SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSORS

Calendar of Events

View and register all Chamber events at www.rochestermnchamber.com/events

AUGUST

4 AM EspressoPossAbilities

Date: Friday, August 4

Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: PossAbilities

FREE - Registration requested

10 RYT Network Information Session

Date: Thursday, August 10

Time: 4:00pm-5:00pm Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

FREE - Registration requested

11 Chamber Weekend Kickoff

Date: Friday, August 11

Time: 11:30am-1:00pm

Location: Saint Mary’s UniversityRochester Campus

FREE - Registration requested

15 Business After HoursPremier Bank Block Party

Date: Tuesday, August 15

Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Premier Bank Rochester Downtown

FREE - Registration requested

17 WE Forum

Date: Thursday, August 17

Time: 11:30am-1:00pm

Location: Saint Mary’s UniversityRochester Campus

FREE - Registration required

18 Women’s Roundtable

Date: Friday, August 18

Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

FREE - Registration required

22 Eggs & Issues

Date: Tuesday, August 22

Time: 8:30am-10:00am

Location: Two Discovery Square Registration required

24 Business Development Exchange (BDX)

Date: Wednesday, August 23

Time: 3:30pm-4:30pm Location: Bowlocity Entertainment Center

FREE for members, $10 for general admission - Registration required

24 Hospitality 1st Roundtable

Date: Thursday, August 24

Time: 9:30am-11:00am

Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

FREE - Registration required

SEPTEMBER

8 AM EspressoGillette Pepsi

Date: Friday, September 8

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Gillette Pepsi

FREE - Registration requested

12 Kickball Tournament

Date: Tuesday, September 12

Time: 11:00am-5:00pm

Location: McQuillan Fields

$35 for individual, $350 for teamRegistration required

15 Women’s Roundtable

Date: Friday, September 15

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

FREE - Registration required

21 Business After HoursReagan Outdoor Advertising

Date: Thursday, September 21

Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm

Location: Reagan Outdoor Advertising

FREE - Registration requested

21 WE Forum

Date: Thursday, September 21

Time: 4:30pm-6:00pm

Location: Forager Brewery & Cafe

FREE - Registration required

OCTOBER

4 Higher Education Outlook

Date: Wednesday, October 4

Time: 8:30am-10:30am

Location: RCTC, Heintz Commons

$30 for members, $45 for general admission - Registration required

6 AM EspressoUnited Way

Date: Friday, October 6

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: United Way of Olmsted County

FREE - Registration requested

19 Business After HoursAltra Federal Credit Union

Date: Thursday, October 19

Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm

Location: Altra Federal Credit Union

FREE - Registration requested

19 WE Forum

Date: Thursday, October 19

Time: 800am-9:00am

Location: Saint Mary’s UniversityRochester Campus

FREE - Registration required

Registration is Officially Open for the Young Talent Network

The RYT Network will provide opportunities to network, develop, and engage

The RYT Network will officially launch in September 2023! This program will provide the opportunity for young talent of the region to create connections, develop professionally and personally, and build relationships with industry, community, and the talent of tomorrow.

Membership to the RYT Network is a flat rate of $65/year per individual. The RYT Network membership is available to team members of current members of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, ages 21 to 39.

By joining the RYT Network, you have access to

• Networking Events

• Community & Industry Engagement

• Professional & Career Development Sessions

• Annual Signature Events

If you have questions or would like to learn more, please contact Kaytlyn Anzivino at kaytlyna@rochestermnchamber.com

Leadership Greater Rochester Class of

2024 Announced

Congratulations to all the individuals who have been selected to participate in the Chamber’s premier leadership program, Leadership Greater Rochester (LGR)!

This 10-month program immerses over three dozen leaders in sessions examining everything from economic development and the local arts scene, to workforce development, and building a sustainable community. Through enriching conversations, behind-the-scenes tours, and work on the Community Impact Project, the LGR experience builds lifelong relationships and provides opportunities for business and community leaders to shape and contribute to the fabric of the greater Rochester area.

Thank you to Broadway Plaza for offering a Small Business Leader Scholarship that helps cover tuition for an LGR participant. Congratulations to Jennifer Pinske with Family Service Rochester who received the scholarship!

Learn more about this program at https://bit.ly/3lC7oW8

Class of 2024 Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR

PROGRAM SPONSORS

CAFFEINE SPONSOR

PROGRAM CHAIR

Brian Morgan

Short Elliott Hendrickson

VICE CHAIR

Therese White Think Bank

Welcome Class of 2024

Kali Aldrich Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Pedro Almeida IBM

Krista Dinsmore Velair Property Management

Danielle Johnson Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union

Shannon Heitmann WSB

Kristin Leveque Mayo Clinic

Katie Austin Olmsted County Public Health

Katie Henning Pharmaceutical Specialties, Inc.

Katie Lund Merchants Bank

Brenda Berg IBM

Julie Herrera-Lemler RAEDI/SBDC

Jeannie Meidlinger Rochester Community and Technical College

Hilary Carr Kids on the GO

Allie Higgins Mayo Clinic

Logan Monahan Mayo Clinic

Jenna Christensen Recovery Is Happening

Dan Horsch Short Elliott Hendrickson Inc.

Elissa Nelson Mayo Clinic

Geno Palazzari Destination Medical Center

Annette Peterson Coulee Bank

Van Pham Mayo Clinic

Tony Pileggi KTTC

Anne Sill Rochester Catholic Schools

Steve Smith Mayo Clinic

Aaron Rigelman Think Bank

Lisa Rogich Mayo Clinic

Nate Roth Benike Construction

Emily Scharrer Mayo Clinic

Mikayla Schmidt Mayo Clinic

Jennifer Pinske Family Service Rochester

Cindy Schuh Mayo Clinic

Becca Sell Think Bank

Luke Turner Olmsted County

Kate Utterback Saint Mary’s University

Alli Vaith The REAL Brokerage

Megan West Olmsted County

Jacqueline Zimmerman GEOTEK

Tiffany Piotrowicz TerraLoco

News

Sponsorship Opportunities

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS - SAVE THE DATE!

Winter Business Showcase – December 5, 2023

This showcase will highlight Chamber Members businesses, services, and will connect them with other community members throughout the Rochester region.

Economic Summit – January 2024

Economic Summit turns a spotlight on the regional economy to provide both a current snapshot and a forecast of the year ahead.

Annual Celebration – February 29, 2024

The Chamber Resource Campaign (CRC) guide will provide you with an efficient platform to plan your engagement in Rochester Chamber events, programs, and more throughout 2024.

This CRC Guide is a showcase of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce events and programs, providing you with valuable details such as event descriptions, available sponsorship levels, and benefits associated with each opportunity.

DATES OF CRC:

• Right of First Refusal Period: Tuesday, August 1 –Thursday, August 31

• Open Enrollment: Friday, September 1 – Open Enrollment is for current sponsors wanting to add additional engagement opportunities and new sponsors looking to become involved in engagement opportunities.

• Close of Chamber Resource Campaign: Thursday, November 30

Why Sponsor?

INCREASE BRAND AWARENESS

By sponsoring, businesses can increase their visibility and promote their brand to a wider audience. Your company’s brand name and sponsorship recognition is included collateral.

This annual gala celebrates the success and growth of the business community in the greater Rochester area.

If you would like to set up a phone call, in-person meeting, or Zoom call with Ally Sheehan to learn more about events and programs, please contact her at asheehan@ rochestermnchamber.com or 507-424-5687. You can also schedule a meeting with her on her Calendly at: https://calendly.com/ asheehan-racc/chambermeeting

View the 2024 CRC Guide at: https://bit.ly/44GXqEj

ACCESS TO BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS

Chamber events provide a unique atmosphere for renewing and strengthening relationships with new and existing clients and customers.

INCREASE YOUR ROI

Being a supporter of Chamber events elevates your business or organization in the community. Chamber members appreciate doing business with other Chamber members and supporters.

Downtown Rochester Task Force Progress July Update

In response to the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on downtown Rochester, a task force was assembled to build a community-based action plan to address immediate and short-term recommendations to be taken by organizations and businesses that support downtown Rochester.

The Downtown Rochester Task Force includes members from the City of Rochester, Destination Medical Center

PROMOTION,

ACTIVATION, AND PROGRAMMING ACCESS

TO DOWNTOWN

ONGOING:

• Experience Rochester and the RDA are actively discussing event cross promotion opportunities.

• Experience Rochester has begun regional marketing focusing on weekend getaways in Rochester.

• RDA began a promotional campaign “Explore Rochester’s Downtown”. Included is an online promotional resource and a new free downtown trolley service.

• City staff, DMC, RDA, and Experience Rochester are partnering for public art downtown through DMC and NEA grant funding.

ONGOING:

• City Council supported exploring new downtown parking solutions. City staff are actively working on options and details will be available soon.

• Rochester Police Department (RPD) is discussing an opportunity with Mayo Clinic to possibly activate first floor space downtown for a “sub station” RPD presence.

COMPLETED:

• Increased Downtown RPD Patrols and Downtown Parking Ramp Security were shared to address public safety concerns.

(DMC), Experience Rochester, Mayo Clinic, Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, Rochester Area Economic Development Agency, Inc. (RAEDI), and Rochester Downtown Alliance (RDA).

Listed below is an update highlighting ongoing and completed actions by the Task Force members as of July 2023.

BARRIERS TO DOING BUSINESS DOWNTOWN

ONGOING:

• City staff have started discussions with businesses for an opportunity to review their barriers and obstacles with the permitting and approval process

DOWNTOWN GROWTH

ONGOING:

• DMC and the taskforce team are collaborating with Mayo Clinic to repurpose street level space in the US Bank building and the 201 Building, both considered high profile retail locations

COMPLETED:

• 57 existing and new downtown businesses have been supported, with resources from the Main Street Economic Revitalization Grant program.

State Grant Issued for TH 14 and CSAH 44 Interchange

Governor Tim Walz announced that the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) will allocate $380 million to fund eight new infrastructure projects through the state’s Corridors of Commerce program.

The Trunk Highway (TH) 14 and County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 44 interchange project was selected to receive $60 million to build a grade separated interchange at the intersection located between Rochester and Byron. The addition of this Corridors of Commerce funding is a big step toward construction of the TH 14/CSAH 44 intersection project.

Previously, Olmsted County received $11 million in funding for project development, purchase of right of way, and construction, including $5 million from the State Legislature through an infrastructure bill approved at the end of the 2023 session.

The TH 14/CSAH 44 interchange project will address three main goals – safety, mobility, and capacity/growth.

“I appreciate the tenacity and continued advocacy by so many parties to help make this interchange project a reality,” said Deputy County Administrator Pete Giesen. “About a dozen crashes a year happen at the intersection of CSAH 44 and TH 14. With our county population growing and traffic volumes only expected to increase at this location, building this interchange is absolutely critical to helping keep people safe.”

The Corridors of Commerce program was created by the Minnesota Legislature in 2013 with a goal of focusing transportation investments on state highway projects that directly and indirectly foster economic growth for the state of Minnesota.

More information about the Corridors of Commerce program can be found on MnDOT’s website at: www.dot.state.mn.us/corridorsofcommerce

This project was selected to receive $60 million to build a grade separated interchange at the intersection located between Rochester and Byron.

Photo by Olmsted County

Newsreels

Updates from the Chamber member community

VELAIR PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PROMOTIONS

Congratulations to the following Velair Property Management promoted employees:

• Heather Barness was promoted from Lead Roving Property Manager to Regional Property Manager overseeing Velair’s North Metro region. Heather brings almost 10 years of experience in multifamily housing.

• Cache Brown was promoted from Senior Property Manager to Lead Roving Property Manager and continues to oversee Valleyhigh Flats as well as support the Rochester Region’s operations and associates.

• Maytham Al Tameemi was promoted from Maintenance Technician to Lead Roving Maintenance Technician and will support the Rochester region’s maintenance operations as well as oversee maintenance for Century Heights in Rochester.

• Ricky Hay was promoted from Maintenance Assistant to Maintenance Technician and will oversee the maintenance for Washington Village West and Washington Village East.

CAMPBELL ANNOUNCED AS BUDGET COMMISSIONER

Governor Walz has selected Minnesota Department of Management and Budget (MMB) Deputy Commissioner Erin Campbell to serve as the next Commissioner of Management and Budget. “Campbell is a talented, dedicated, and tireless public servant; there is no better person to lead MMB while we work to deliver for Minnesotans and position the state for a strong economic future,” said Governor Walz.

NEW ROCHESTER AREA BUILDER'S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The Rochester Area Builders’ Board of Directors is proud to announce the hiring of their new Executive Director, Patrick Sexton . Patrick comes to the organization with extensive experience working in legislation at the state capitol, communications and media relations with Honeywell and West Group, public affairs consulting, and commercial real estate.

TIMEOUT BEHAVIOR COACHING ADDITION

Timeout Behavior Coaching, LLC, a local in-home parent coaching, education, and training service, has recently added Sarah Blanshan to their coaching staff. Owner Angie Ellsworth states, “We are so pleased to have Sarah sharing her knowledge, experience, and compassion with our organization and the families in our area.”

Newsreel Submissions

A FRESH NEW LOOK FOR WINGS CREDIT UNION

Wings Credit Union has a new look this summer! Brand and logo updates were made to better reflect the strong, modern financial institution that Wings is today. Visit us at 4287 W Circle Dr NW or wingscu.com to learn more. Insured by NCUA.

Have an announcement for the Chamber member community such as a new hire, promoted employee, recipient of an award or a company rebranding? Send your newsreel submissions for future issues of the Advantage Magazine to Sophia van Oss at svanoss@rochestermnchamber.com. Newsreel submissions are a benefit of Chamber membership and complimentary for members.

Ribbon Cuttings

FOOT CARE PROFESSIONALS LLC celebrated their new location with a ribbon cutting on June 5th. Owner and Nurse Practitioner, Sheila Buehler APRN, CNP, CFCS cut the ribbon.

3708 Broadway Ave N, Suite 130, Rochester www.footcaremn.com

IMAGE360 ROCHESTER celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on June 6th. Co-Owner, Ambro Alvarado cut the ribbon.

2973 43rd St NW, Suite 110, Rochester

www.rochestermn.image360.com

SAFEWAY AGENCY celebrated their new location and Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on June 8th. Agency Owner, Pete Henslin, cut the ribbon.

2900 43rd St NW, Suite 250, Rochester www.safewayagencyinc.com

SCOOTER'S COFFEE celebrated their new ownership with a ribbon cutting on June 13th. Manager, Alison Weber cut the ribbon.

1608 Broadway Ave S, Rochester www.scooterscoffee.com

F & M COMMUNITY BANK celebrated their new location with a ribbon cutting on June 14th. Mother of Owners, Evelyn Christianson cut the ribbon.

1820 W Frontage Rd, Hwy 52 NW, Rochester www.fmcommunity.com

SCHMIDT GOODMAN OFFICE PRODUCTS celebrated their new showroom with a ribbon cutting on June 14th. President, Kathy Goodman cut the ribbon.

1920 N. Broadway, Rochester

www.schmidtgoodman.com

Welcome to the Chamber

Hero Home Service

Nicole Johnson

(507) 821-4875

424 37th Street NE, Suite 2, Rochester www.callhero.com

Nanodropper

Robbie Spencer (507) 405-5676

www.nanodropper.com

Rachel Newville Photography

Rachel Newville (218) 457-0305

www.rachelnewville.com

Miss Angie’s Place

Angie Severson (507) 251-3684

222 S Main Street, Pine Island www.missangiesplace.org

Creative Curb Appeal

Kayla Arneson (507) 424-2007

1086 Pendant Lane NW, Ste 300, Rochester www.creativecurbappeal.com

Jen Hiscox - Executive Coach

Jennifer Hiscox (262) 893-7832

www.jenexecutivecoach.com

Ansay & Associates Insurance & Benefit Solutions

Ray McGuire (920) 621-7544

PO Box 159, Rochester, MN www.ansay.com

Hatlevig Agency

Toby Hatlevig (507) 722-7064

111 11th Ave NE, Rochester www.tobyhatlevig.fbfsagents.com

Superior Screeners

Paul Brandrup (507) 282-4124

25 9 1/2 St. SE, Rochester

www.superiorscreeners.com

Timeout Behavior Coaching, LLC

Angie Ellsworth (507) 254-7748

www.timeoutbehavior.com

TFerraro Consulting LLC/Vistage Chair

Tom Ferraro (507) 269-6244

Polytek Surface Coatings

Colton Rasmussen (507) 252-8112

6747 10th Ave. SW, Rochester

www.mypolytek.com

J.Hilburn

Jennifer Shinners

(952) 451-0988

17090 New Market Drive, Eden Prairie

www.jennifershinners.jhilburn.com

ProRider Rochester

Todd Looney

(507) 993-2800

405 16th Street SE, Stewartville

www.proriderrochester.com

Trinity Exteriors, Inc.

Will Collins

(507) 242-9060

1700 N Broadway Ave., Suite 108, Rochester www.trinityexteriorsinc.com

1910 Fresh Mexican Kitchen

Israel Gonzalez

(507) 322-6009

1121 Civic Center Dr., Rochester www.1910fresh.com

220 South Broadway, Suite 100

Rochester, MN 55904

507-288-1122

www.RochesterMNChamber.com

PLEASE SHARE THE

SHOWCASING PASSION AND COMMITMENT

The TSP team leveraged our specialized skills, talent, and capabilities to design a new, modern fire station to serve the city of Kasson. This flourishing project will replace the current facility that is located on the same site, showcasing TSP’s commitment and passion for creating effective and enduring community spaces. To learn more, visit:

Rochester, MN