Lemonade Day: Empowering Young Entrepreneurs to Turn Lemons into Profits
FEATURE 2024 Legislative Session Review
NON-PROFIT SPOTLIGHT
Brains Together
MEET THE MEMBER
Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's
CHAMBER NEWS
• Events
• Empowering Young Talent
• Sponsorship Opportunities
• Connecting Candidates & Commerce
• Chamber Welcomes New Staff & Announces Staff Promotion
• Intercity Visit Launches
• Leadership Greater Rochester Class of 2025 Announced COMMUNITY
• Mayo Clinic Hospitals Score A Grades For Patient Safety
• Soldiers Field Aquatics Center Opens
• Labor Force Participation Rate Steady; Unemployment Rate Ticks Up
• Rochester's Growth Highlighted
Roles and Celebrations
SENIOR DIRECTOR, MEMBERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT
Kali Aldrich | 507-424-5665
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & OPERATIONS
Michaela Freyler | 507-424-5699
WORKFORCE INITIATIVES & RYT NETWORK DIRECTOR
Claire Henneman | 507-424-5662
CHAIR OF THE BOARD
Scott Eggert | Broadway Plaza
VICE CHAIR
Steve Dunn | Taco JED
SANTHI ARUNACHALAM
Xylo Technologies Inc.
CHAD BEHNKEN
Hamilton Real Estate
DR. JEFFREY BOYD
Rochester Community and Technical College
HEATHER DONOVAN
Sterling State Bank
ABEL GARCIA
Remodeling D.L, LLC
MISSION
Chamber Staff
POLICY & COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Olivia Kloster | 507-424-5666
SENIOR DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Jonathon Krull | 507-424-5677
MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR
Tim Shea | 507-424-5663
Chamber Board Officers
AT
LARGE
Gwen Stevens | People's Energy Cooperative
Chamber Board Members
ULISES GONZALEZ
Baser Freight
DOUG HOLTAN
Mayo Clinic
JARETT JONES
Merchants Bank
MARGE KELLEY
GPC
CHAD LAUNDERVILLE
Hy-Vee
The Chamber promotes business success which supports a thriving community.
SENIOR DIRECTOR, EVENTS & PROGRAMS
Ally Sheehan | 507-424-5687
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Cherie Thurlow | 507-288-1122
COMMUNICATIONS & DESIGN DIRECTOR
Sophia van Oss | 507-424-5661
TREASURER
Jessica Eidem | IBM Corporation
SECRETARY
John Eckerman | RSP Architects
TOM LEIMER
Knutson Construction
OMAR NUR
Somali American Social Services Association
SYLWIA BUJAK OLIVER 125 LIVE
KRISTY SUTTON
Olmsted Medical Center
KELSEY VASZILY
Kraus-Anderson Construction
VISION
Rochester-area businesses are empowered to succeed in a diverse and collaborative climate.
Today’s entrepreneurs have much to be proud of, including the groups that have supported their growth from a young age. Many business owners were bitten by the entrepreneurial bug early in life. To nurture this spirit, Lemonade Day offers a free, fun, experiential program that teaches youth how to start, own, and operate their very own business—a lemonade stand.
Each year, participating cities across the world empower today’s youth to be tomorrow’s entrepreneurs. The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce presented the third annual Lemonade Day to the Rochester, Minnesota area, expanding this year to officially include Byron and Stewartville.
This year, over 380 participants registered, including many new and returning families, as well as some youth groups for Lemonade Day in the Rochester area which took place on Saturday, June 8. “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, Senior Director, Events & Programs at the Chamber, and Lemonade Day City Director said.
With Lemonade Day in its third year, the entire Chamber team were particularly excited about the use of the My Lemonade Day app.
As Sheehan explained, this was an alternative/ addition to the workbook that the participants received to help walk them through the lessons.
The valuable lessons of Lemonade Day include setting a goal, making a plan, working the plan, and achieving their dreams. Once a youth pays their investor back, they keep all the money they earn and are encouraged to spend some, save some, and share some of their profit.
"It is also fun to see some participants year after year bring new items to their stand, make their stand even bigger than the last or even try new recipes. It has become a staple in some family’s summer plans."
“Participants have access to lessons, tips and tricks through the app and workbook that helps walk them through the process of starting their business.” Sheehan said.
With the app, families learn from Lemmy, the mascot of Lemonade Day and his friends. The resources guided participants through the journey of planning, launching, and operating a business.
TRUSTED ADVISOR
We worked with everybody, from the architects to the engineers to the designers — stuff they had expertise in that I didn’t even know that I needed to know about. They were there with me the whole way.
This year, Jesse, father of two boys who participated in Lemonade Day for the second year, developed their idea for "Lemonade Paradise, Seriously Delicious". As parent of Lemonade Day participants, Jesse found the program as a valuable way to create dialog with his children around entrepreneurial and business concepts in a very discrete time-boxed way.
Kim Eisenmann Director of Maternal Child Health, Columbus Community Hospital
"I learned about the cost of my supplies, and I created a budget. I made yard signs. I also went around my neighborhood to let my neighbors know about my stand."
"The provided curriculum through the free app is very interactive and engaging, great for sparking ageappropriate discussions about business fundamentals and requires almost no preparation for parents," Jesse says. "The app makes it easy to dive in over a few sessions to fully prepare a game plan." His sons ended up equally dividing their profits into a high interest savings account, purchasing LEGO ® bricks, and donating to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Due to the resounding success in previous years, this year’s Lemonade Day expanded into the Byron and Stewartville areas. “It has been exciting to see Lemonade Day grow in Rochester and we welcomed the opportunity to expand the program officially to the young entrepreneurs of Byron and Stewartville,” Sheehan said.
“It is also fun to see some participants year after year bring new items to their stand, make their stand even bigger than the last or even try new recipes. It has become a staple in some family’s summer plans.”
Not only does this program help young entrepreneurs on starting their own business, but brings together the community for a fun day of purchasing lemonade from over 70 stands.
Local youth were excited to see their turnout including visits from Lemmy and the Rochester Police Department and Rochester Police Athletic/Activities League. This year, the Chamber had the honor of hosting National Lemonade Day representative Samantha, who toured the town and visited as many lemonade stands as possible.
The Chamber had a caravan bus, provided by Casa de Corazón, that drove around and visited stands as a large group before they split up to visit subsequent stands. “Samantha had a great time in our community and loved to see all the participants in action,” Sheehan said.
Rochester’s Lemonade Day wouldn’t be possible without the strong support from the Chamber and community businesses, including:
• Main Squeeze Sponsor – Think Bank
• Fresh Squeeze Sponsor – Altra Federal Credit Union, Hy-Vee, Mayo Clinic, Shorewood Senior Campus
• Lemon Drop Sponsor – Olmsted Medical Center, Rochester Athletic Club, Wings Credit Union, Workshop Food Hall & Bar
• Lemon Twist Sponsor – Casa de Corazón, Home Federal Savings Bank, MetroNet, People’s Energy Cooperative, Sylvan Learning of Rochester, Velair Property Management
• Media Sponsor – KTTC
• Radio Media Sponsor – iHeartMedia and Townsquare Media
Alaine Westra, Vice President of Community Impact at Think Bank and the main squeeze sponsor of this year’s Lemonade Day, highlighted the sense of community Lemonade Day inspires.
“Young entrepreneurs, friendly neighbors and neighborhoods, and the business community come together for a “sweet” day,” Westra said. “As a sponsor, it’s a joy to support Lemonade Day as
it provides a fun, experience-driven opportunity for youth in our area to discover and grow their entrepreneurial skills. As an organization, Think Bank helps people meet their money and this is a great opportunity to help youth in our community start that learning process.”
One of this year’s participants, Felicity, age 9, invited her friends to help with her entrepreneurial efforts. “My lemonade stand was in my neighborhood. I worked really hard at making my supplies. I squeezed lemons and made ice cubes,” Felicity said. “I learned about the cost of my supplies, and I created a budget. I made yard signs. I also went around my neighborhood to let my neighbors know about my stand.”
Wendy Letran at Casa de Corazón, another sponsor of this year’s program, expressed their enjoyment in supporting young entrepreneurs and driving their bus around for the Chamber caravan to visit stands on Lemonade Day. “The value of the program is the opportunity to participate in our community, get to know other people and taste that delicious lemonade,” Letran said.
Looking ahead, next year’s Lemonade Day will continue to expand into the Byron and Stewartville communities for registration and visibility. “We will continue to find businesses willing to be Sweet Spots for participants to set up their stands at on Lemonade Day,” Sheehan said.
“The Sweet Spot Program has been going on for two years now. Sweet Spots are designed to help youth entrepreneurs sign up for high-traffic locations in our community for Lemonade Day. Sweet Spots are created through business partnerships throughout the city to help youth achieve sweet success.”
"As a sponsor, it’s a joy to support Lemonade Day as it provides a fun, experience-driven opportunity for youth in our area to discover and grow their entrepreneurial skills."
Save the date for the next Lemonade Day on Saturday, June 7, 2025!
All of the information you need to make your voice heard this election
Registering to Vote MATTERS I
Minnesota’s 2024 Voting Timeline
Primary Early Voting
June 28 - August 12
Citizens can vote early in the primary by absentee ballot or in person in several locations Check your voting location for available hours
Primary Candidate Forums
July 22 - 30
The Rochester League of Women Voters, Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, and The Post Bulletin are partnering to hold Candidate Forums For times and more information visit, RochesterMNChamber com
Primary Election
August 13
This is your chance to help decide which candidates will be on the ballot in November’s general election, both in partisan and nonpartisan offices
General Candidate Forums
September 9 - 26
The Rochester League of Women Voters, Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, and The Post Bulletin are partnering to hold Candidate Forums For times and more information visit, RochesterMNChamber com
General Election Early Voting September 20November 4
Citizens can vote early in the general election by absentee ballot or in person in several locations Check your voting location for available hours
November 5
2024 LEGISLATIVE SESSION REVIEW
Hear from local legislators about the 2024 legislative session and the impacts to the business community.
The 2024 legislative session concluded in dramatic fashion on May 19th as the midnight deadline passed. This chaotic end featured the introduction of a 1,430-page omnibus bill just 15 minutes before the session's end, packed with nine additional bills. Despite the contentious conclusion, the lack of a bonding bill, and some of our priorities not crossing the finish line, there are still many successes to celebrate.
DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in the Representative's and Senator’s responses are the sole views of their own. They do not reflect the opinions or views of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce or its members. The publication of the Representative's and Senator’s statements therein do not imply the expression of any endorsement whatsoever by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce or its members. At the time of publication, a response was not available from Rep. Duane Quam (District 24A).
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
RESTORATION OF P-TECH FUNDING
One of the major achievements this year was the restoration of P-TECH funding for Rochester Public Schools. Last session, changes to the P-TECH state funding structure left Rochester’s P-TECH facing a funding cliff. Initially, a small, temporary fix was proposed to phase out state funding over a multiyear period through 2027. This proposal was then incorporated into HF5237, the House Education Supplemental Budget Bill. The Chamber took action and urged local lawmakers to accept an amendment that ensures Rochester receives $971,000 in FY’25, $500,000 in FY’26, and $250,000 in FY’27 which was a large increase from what was previously proposed. The Chamber was pleased to see this success, as P-TECH not only benefits students but also serves as a crucial resource for the local business community, providing education tailored to in-demand career pathways that meet workforce needs.
LICENSURE COMPACTS
Another significant win was the passage of HF4247, which established licensure compacts for professions with strong workforce needs, including licensed professional counselors, dentists and dental hygienists, physician assistants, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and social workers. These compacts streamline the licensure process, enabling qualified professionals from neighboring states to practice in Minnesota, both in person and through telepractice. By doing so, we alleviate workforce shortages, enhance access to essential services, and better serve underserved communities and rural areas. This was a step in the right direction, and the Chamber will continue to advocate for additional licensure compacts for in-demand careers such as nursing.
LEGISLATIVE CHALLENGES
While the 2024 legislative session lacked the vast number of mandates on the business community seen in 2023, it still hindered businesses' opportunities to succeed and remain competitive on their own accord. In 2024, the legislature made minor tweaks to the paid family medical leave program, which remains an area of serious concern regarding its long-term viability due to soaring costs. This year alone, the anticipated payroll tax to fund the program rose to 0.88%, higher than the original 0.7% initially planned.
Additionally, the legislature passed the labor policy omnibus bill, SF3852, which included changes to the minimum wage structure in Minnesota.
This law mandates the increase of the minimum wage to $10.85 across the board, eliminates exemptions for small businesses, seasonal employers, and the hospitality industry, and increases the annual inflator from 2.5% up to 5%. With the market already driving competitive wages, this one-size-fits-all minimum wage, coupled with the increased inflator cap, disproportionately impacts our small business community, exacerbating the existing challenges of rising costs and increased taxation.
DEFEATED PROPOSALS
Several proposals that would have further strained the business community were successfully defeated this session. A proposed 5% broadband tax that would have allowed governmental units to impose a tax on broadband services did not pass. Additionally, a proposal to create a MinnesotaCare public option was also defeated. Had this bill passed, doctors and healthcare providers would have seen minimal payments for services, jeopardizing healthcare access, especially in rural areas.
THE BONDING BILL SETBACK
Despite it being a bonding year, the legislature failed to pass a compromise bonding bill. This was particularly disappointing as a key priority of the Chamber’s 2024 legislative agenda was the support of local bonding projects. Projects such as interchanges on Highway 14 at CSAH 3 and CSAH 5, solar parking at Rochester International Airport, Olmsted County’s Next Gen Resource Recovery facility, and many others went unfunded due to this. The Chamber will continue to work with our legislators to champion these beneficial projects for the community in the next session.
CONTINUED ADVOCACY AND ENGAGEMENT
Throughout the ups and downs of the 2024 legislative session, the Chamber made a concentrated effort to strengthen our relationships with local delegation members and legislative leadership, including Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson and House Minority Leader Lisa Demuth. The willingness of our delegation and legislative leadership to discuss legislation and its impact on the business community was crucial in achieving several items on our legislative agenda.
We extend our gratitude to our legislators and businesses for their continued engagement with our advocacy efforts this session!
DISTRICT 25
Looking back on the 2024 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community?
Businesses thrive in healthy, stable communities. That’s why my DFL colleagues and I are focusing our efforts on making Minnesota the best place to live, work and raise a family - through investments in childcare, education, housing, and workforce development initiatives. This session, I led the work to continue funding of Rochester’s P-TECH program - ensuring that RochesterArea students are prepared for careers in healthcare and IT and local businesses have strong talent pools from which to recruit. Additionally, Minnesota joined several interstate compact agreements, meaning businesses can better attract people from around the country to fill workforce gaps in healthcare and other careers that are critical to our local economy, like dentistry, physician assistants, occupational therapists, professional counselors, audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and social workers. And with great new programs like Universal Free School Meals and Paid Family Medical Leave, we continue to create and build upon incentives for folks to move to our great state to live and work.
What is a major takeaway from the 2024 session?
DFLers at the Legislature are taking holistic approaches to the challenges facing our state, and Minnesota has made great progress in the past couple years. After previous years of divided government, gridlock and inaction, we’ve made investments in our communities today that will lead to economic prosperity tomorrow and for years to come. We’re ensuring that Minnesota is a place where everyone can thrive, through a nation-leading child tax credit, historic increases to K-12 funding, affordable higher education, investments in childcare and our workforce, and more. Successful economies are driven by a healthy middle class, and we are laying a great foundation for Minnesota’s future.
Looking back on the 2024 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community?
I am proud of the work we accomplished during the historic biennium. The 2023 session focused on passing legislation to help Minnesotans succeed. This year, the 2024 session built on those successes by making additional significant progress for families. When legislators center our decision and policymaking decisions on people, we can truly positively impact the quality of life for working Minnesotans and their families.
This session, we took important action to assist persons with disabilities, and improve resources for those struggling with mental illness. We also expanded our nation-leading Child Tax Credit and strengthened the Paid Family and Medical Leave law. These measures – and more – help ensure more Minnesotans will become part of the workforce and contribute to our state so we can all thrive.
What is a major takeaway from the 2024 session?
The 2024 legislative session built on the success of the productive 2023 legislative session. Last year’s transformational budget made it possible for Minnesotans to create a better life for themselves. The 2024 session helped families continue this upward trajectory. Improving our water quality, expanding health insurance coverage, investing in organizations to develop Minnesota’s workforce and help small businesses grow are just a few of the many highlights of the 2024 session.
This session, as it is every session, it was important to help our most vulnerable Minnesotans. By improving access to treatment programs, making it easier for people with disabilities to stay in their homes, investing in transitional care options, among other things, we support those who need assistance and help them live a fuller life. We also made it easier to integrate them into the workforce when they are able.
Rep. Kim Hicks DISTRICT 25A
Sen. Liz Boldon
Rep. Andy Smith DISTRICT 25B
Looking back on the 2024 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community?
In the short term, the Bonding Bill which funded over $40 million dollars in projects will provide work for all kinds of trades in the coming year. In the long term, two huge factors will help us maintain and grow our educated workforce in Minnesota: Paid Family and Medical Leave and the North Star Promise (tuitionfree college for students from families making less than $80,000/yr).
What is a major takeaway from the 2024 session?
The major takeaway from the 2024 session is that gridlock is over at the capitol. The legislature made progress on many fronts: affordable housing, education, infrastructure, transportation, healthcare, homelessness prevention, and tax breaks for working families. It is a good time to be a Minnesotan.
DISTRICT 24
Looking back on the 2024 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community?
The restoration of P-TECH funding was a major victory. Continuing the program’s amazingly successful STEM workforce pipeline will reap major rewards for our community. However, the session brought concerning changes to the Paid Family Medcial Leave (PFML) program and Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) laws that will greatly burden small businesses. Despite warnings, PFML costs ballooned to $1.6 billion annually, requiring another payroll tax increase. Small employers now face a 50% higher PFML tax rate than originally promised. New ESST penalties, documentation requirements, and expanded leave uses will increase compliance costs. These workplace mandate changes ignore the realities small businesses face and make it significantly harder to operate, grow, and create jobs. Finally, the ultra-partisanship of the 2024 session prevented the legislature from completing another bonding bill that could have funded critical infrastructure projects for the Rochester area. Positive outcomes included stopping a $20 minimum wage, blocking a new health insurance claims tax, and government-run public health option. We also fixed tax errors from 2023 that would have cost businesses and individuals over $350 million per year.
What is a major takeaway from the 2024 session?
I've served in both chambers, in both majority and minority, but I've never witnessed anything like the bitter partisanship of the last two years. Divided government may not be easy, but it produces far superior results to unchecked single-party control. The other major takeaway is that one-party control at the state capitol is crushing Minnesota’s small businesses. We have the highest corporate tax rate in the country and the sixth-worst business climate. Rather than improving our economic competitiveness, we’ve seen a $72 billion spending spree, $10 billion in tax increases, and a raft of new regulations and mandates that have increased costs and burdens for businesses and their employees. These new burdens threaten small employers across the state – especially when combined with uncertainties around additional future tax increases and regulations, and our expensive cost of living. We need a return to balanced government that supports all businesses, employees, and their families.
Rep. Tina Liebling DISTRICT 24B
Looking back on the 2024 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community?
In 2024 we built on the success of the 2023 Tax Bill by establishing advanced periodic payments of Minnesota’s nation-leading Child Tax Credit to help families escape poverty.
For E-12 education, we strengthened the READ Act and created 5200 new voluntary pre-kindergarten seats beginning in 2025. In health, we continued reforming prior authorization, to remove more unnecessary barriers and allow providers to determine what care is appropriate.
SE Minnesota has a serious problem with nitrate contamination in drinking water. The legislature put additional money toward cleaning up nitrates in drinking water and helping to reduce the fertilizer use that causes contamination.
Businesses must now use all-inclusive prices. This gives businesses a level playing field and lets consumers compare prices.
What is a major takeaway from the 2024 session? Minnesota is growing and outcompeting neighboring states on many metrics. DFL leadership in the Legislature and in the Governor’s office has led to progress in many areas in ways. Responsible regulation and investment in the health and well-being of our population is consistent with economic growth. We all do better when we all do better.
Sen. Carla Nelson
Sen. Steve Drazkowski DISTRICT 20
Looking back on the 2024 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community?
The cost of doing business in Minnesota is growing out of control, and Democrats are simply adding to the burden. The little guys who run small businesses throughout the state are now going to be buried under administrative regulations, red tape, and higher taxes to pay for the extreme agenda Democrats have pursued. They will be paying for thousands of new employees at the state while struggling to make their own payrolls and grow their own businesses. It’s just fundamentally wrong. Now there is a massive rulemaking underway for home daycares so intrusive it threatens the existence of home daycares. It’s hard to see it as anything but snuffing out home daycares in favor of more government run programs.
What is a major takeaway from the 2024 session?
Single party control has been terrible for Minnesota. Democrats forced more red tape and mandates onto businesses, schools, and local governments – all of which will lead to higher costs for Minnesotans. With all the strings attached to state funding, local governments and schools will be forced to raise property taxes on Minnesotans – adding to the $10 billion of tax increases passed by the state. Democrats were intent on their extreme agenda no matter what. They had little interest in working across the aisle, and no one to stop them. Session ended with Democrats jamming 1400 pages of legislation through the Legislature with no debate, no review, and no check because they could. Their obsession with their own political power is leaving Minnesotans behind.
Rep. Steve Jacob DISTRICT 20B
Looking back on the 2024 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community?
One notable part of the 1400 page Mega Omnibus bill was SF 4699. This section of the bill will impact area businesses by increasing the number of insurance mandates which will drive up the cost of health care once again. Minnesota already ranks among the top states with the most amount of insurance coverage mandates.
Also: HF 5363 adopted in the Mega Omnibus bill doesn’t make the substantive changes needed to address the operational problems the Paid Family Medical Leave program will face. Nothing in the bill provides meaningful relief.
The biggest problem facing our local businesses that resulted from the 2024 session was the lack of any meaningful relief from taxes and burdensome regulations.
What is a major takeaway from the 2024 session? 2023 was marked by a very clear focus and agenda from the Democrat party, while 2024 was filled with chaos and disorganization from the Democrats, partly stemming from the development of Democrat Nicole Mitchell being arrested on first degree burglary charges. Those charges greatly complicated issues for Democrats since they only held a razor thin one vote majority.
With Democrats full control of the House, the Senate and the Governor’s office, they spent through the entire 18 billion dollar surplus and raised taxes by another 10 billion dollars, growing government by 40%. Even with full control, Democrats failed to deliver on the promise to give $2000 refund checks or to end the tax on social security.
The final hours of the 2024 session resulted in Democrats combining massive bills into one enormous 1400 page bill. Through this approach, the Democrat party succeeded in hiding the language of the bill from the public and the members expected to vote on it.
Non-Profit Spotlight : Brains Together
Taking an in-depth look at a local non-profit, Brains Together and their community impact
Tell us about Brains Together
Brains Together is a non-profit run entirely by volunteers who want to help patients & families dealing with the diagnosis of a brain tumor. Our mission is to support & empower those affected by brain tumors through meaningful connections, with a shared commitment toward advancing research.
What inspired the founding of Brains Together and how has your organization evolved over the years?
This organization started in 2007 when my husband was being treated for a brain tumor. Through his treatment I met some wonderful people at Mayo Clinic and together we set our minds to raising a little money for research. Little did we know how far we would take this, funding nearly $1.5 million in research grants here at Mayo Clinic Rochester.
At our first fundraiser in 2007 which was advertised primarily by word of mouth, we expected a little over 100 people. Hoping a lot of our friends and family members would show up! We were shocked when over 500 came! It was clear to us that there was a need in this area to support people going through brain tumor treatment and as well who had lost someone.
For the last 17 years we have also run a support group for patients & families. We meet virtually the 3rd Saturday of every month. At these meetings we hope to connect people who are in this similar situation and hopefully help each other through their shared experiences. We are also very fortunate to have a physician at each meeting to help answer questions.
Please share a highlight of how your organization has impacted the Rochester region
We try every year to engage the community by encouraging attendance at our annual event the first weekend of October. We put on a chip timed 5K run and
2- mile walk (run by the Med City Marathon folks) we have face painting, balloon twisters, a silent auction, other activities along with music and a great program after the run/walk is finished. We often have a keynote speaker who is either an author, patient or a family member to share their experience. It’s a very impactful morning of events.
We hope that when we bring people together, our event will become a tradition. There are many families that come each year to honor or remember their loved one with a brain tumor. We always hope that we can make an impact and inspire hope.
How can the community become involved in the important work Brains Together does?
The community of Rochester can help us in many ways! We need volunteers to help with planning our event, for jobs on day of our event, as well as people to help us look to the future of Brains Together. So, if you are interested, please let us know!
What’s an interesting fact about Brains Together that most people don’t know?
An interesting fact about us is that at our first event, the keynote speaker was Minnesota native Eleanor Mondale, the daughter of Vice President Walter Mondale. She was being treated here at Mayo for a brain tumor. We were thrilled to have her acknowledge the start of this organization.
This year’s event is Saturday October 5th, at RCTC. Visit our website www.brainstogetherforacure.org to get more info and register.
Meet the Member: Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's
Each month, we learn from a Chamber member about their offerings, history, a unique fact, and their business outlook
Local restaurants are the heart of a community, offering not just meals but a place for people to connect and celebrate. Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's embodies this spirit, providing Rochester with a unique dining experience that blends beloved traditional Italian dishes with innovative new creations. We spoke with Co-Owner, Nadia Victoria, to learn more about Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's.
Q: Tell us about the Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's. What does your company offer to the Rochester region and how did it start for Sorellina's?
A : Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's is the sister restaurant to Victoria's Italian in downtown Rochester. Victoria's has been in operation since 1997, founded by Sam and Maria Servin, and Sid and Natalie Victoria. Our parents! Jordan and I have worked at Victoria's since childhood, and we saw this as an opportunity to use what we have learned and bring our ideas together to create something unique and special.
Q: Sorellina's has been a member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce for over a year. What do you find valuable in your membership to the organization?
A: Belonging to the Rochester Chamber of Commerce is an honor. The networking is the best in town. Informational sessions, increased visibility, endless promotional materials, and a strong sense of community!
Q: What is a unique fact people should know about Sorellina's?
A: Sorellina's offers many of the favorite dishes from the downtown location, as well as our own creations. Sorellina's has a pizza oven, an indoor/outdoor patio, live music, a firepit, and our very own parking lot. We see a lot of families dining, so we are hopeful our popularity among the littles of the family is strong.
Q: What is the outlook for your organization and industry?
A: The restaurant industry can be challenging. We believe our best area for growth is catering. We are incredibly proud of our product, and the versatility of it. We currently offer both delivery and pick up.
To learn more about Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's, visit www.sorellinasmn.com
SORELLINA'S
Photos provided by Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's and taken by Kate Rocca with Pixel Rhode Photography
AM Espresso is a monthly morning structured networking event. Come expand your network, promote your business, and enjoy a delicious breakfast and refreshments. This monthly event represents an excellent opportunity to reach business professionals in a variety of sectors.
In August, join us at Rochester Civic Theater! The Rochester Civic Theater is a non-profit organization that educates and enriches the adults and young people of Rochester and SE MN through the production and presentation of live theater, music, and dance.
Date: Friday, August 2, 2024
Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: Rochester Civic Theater
30 Civic Center Dr. SE, Ste 100, Rochester
Admission: Free, registration requested
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3KQ8LcP
In September, join us at North Rock Hospitality Group! North Rock Hospitality Group is an entrepreneurial commercial real estate firm who takes an innovative approach to all project processes. With their expertise, clients can expect real estate strategies of all types, sizes and objectives to be delivered with confidence and results.
Date: Friday, September 13, 2024
Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: Residence Inn Rochester Mayo Clinic Area South, 809 16th St SW, Rochester
Admission: Free, registration requested
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4cv5GLd
Join us for Business After Hours, a monthly event to network and build valuable business relationships. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while connecting with a variety of businesses operating in the greater Rochester area. This event is a great opportunity to increase your organization’s visibility and generate productive business leads.
In August, join us at Premier Bank! 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.
Date: Tuesday, August 13, 2024
Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm
Location: Premier Bank Rochester Downtown, 421 1st Ave. SW, Rochester
Admission: Free, registration requested
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3RyxhmA AUGUST HOST
In September, join us at the 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 19, 2024
Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm
Location: Reagan Outdoor Advertising, 3185 41st St NW, Rochester
Admission: Free, registration requested
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3xp39TJ
Budgeting
Budgeting’s primary function is to ensure the company or organization has enough resources to meet its goal. Join the Chamber team, PossAbilities, Real Deals, and Smith Schafer to learn how to build a foundation of financial literacy and gain deeper insight on the factors that impacts an organization’s finances.
SPEAKERS
• Kurt Lentz, Smith Schafer: Budgeting best practices
• Sue Mackert, PossAbilities: How to budget effectively as a non-profit
• Ashley Moberg, Real Deals: Small business budgeting and how to pick and choose marketing dollars
Date: Wednesday, August 7, 2024
Time: 9:00am-10:00am
Location: Heartland Gun Club & Range, 5105 Commercial Dr SW, Rochester
Admission: Free for members, $10 for general admission, registration required
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4b9WXOe
Event Sponsors
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.
Dates: Friday, August 16 and Friday, September 20, 2024 Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, Conference Room, 220 S Broadway, Suite 100, Rochester
Admission: Free, registration required
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/40UL8Xi
Event Sponsors
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 every summer month for our Chamber Weekend Kickoff.
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!
Dates: Friday, August 23, 2024
Time: 11:30am-1:00pm
Location: Saint Mary’s University - Rochester Campus, 2900 19th Street NW, Rochester
Admission: Free, registration requested
Event Sponsors
The Chamber Champions League (CCL) unites businesses through a series of friendly head-to-head competitions, blending physical challenges, mental trials, and team-building action into a fun-filled day of teamwork.
Ready to join the league? Your team will need to consist of 6-8 players. Not all games will need everyone on the team but everyone will get the chance to play! Space is limited to 20 teams. Awards will be presented to 1st, 2nd, 3rd as well as the Best Dressed Team and Best Cheer Team.
Dates: Tuesday, August 6, 2024
Time: 8:00am-1:30pm
Location: Essex Park, 5455 W River Rd NW, Rochester
Admission: $400 per team (6-8 players), registration required
Event Sponsors
Federal Legislation Update
Upcoming Eggs & Issues: From D.C. to Rochester, Congressman Finstad and the US Chamber
EGGS
& ISSUES
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 Chamber is excited to welcome Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) along with John Kirchner, Vice President, Midwest Region of the U.S. Chamber for the August edition of Eggs & Issues. Join us on Wednesday, August 28th, from 10:00am to 11:30am as Congressman Finstad shares insight into his work at the Capitol and the U.S. Chamber provides updates on relevant legislation to the business community.
• 10:35am: Federal Legislative Review and Preview with John Kirchner, Vice President, Midewest Region, U.S. Chamber of Commerce
• 11:05am: Q&A
*Agenda subject to change
Date: Wednesday, August 28, 2024
Time: 10:00am - 11:30am
Location: Empire Event Center 1517 16th St SW, Rochester
Admission: $25 for members, $45 for general admission, registration required by Friday, August 23
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4bCiH4K
Event Sponsors
PRESENTING SPONSORS
SESSION SPONSORS
Get Ready for a Kickin’ Good Time
Brush off your gym shoes for the 3rd Annual Chamber Kickball Tournament
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 10, 2024
Time: 10:00am - 5:00pm
Location: McQuillan Fields, 1655 Marion Rd. SE, Rochester
Admission: SOLD OUT!
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4aRaQQR
Event Sponsors
PRESENTING SPONSOR
BASE SPONSORS
Shape Your Future at the RYT Summit
Welcome to the RYT Summit, where professionals can connect, learn, and develop. This premier professional development conference offers a dynamic blend of a workshop, leadership panel, and keynote speaker curated to empower you with actionable insights and strategies for leadership and professional growth.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: THE FUNDAMENTALS OF MEANINGFUL LEADERSHIP
Paul Long, Speaker, Author, Podcaster and Master of Shenanigans
Paul spent over a decade successfully leading teams and being responsible for $30M in annual revenue. Paul’s practical, yet rich FUNdamentals provide tactical solutions for growth and how to differentiate yourself as a leader. Paul has shared his inspiring message with PayPal, Sysco, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and more.
WORKSHOP: ELEVATE YOUR SKILLS
WHO IS THIS EVENT FOR?
• Professionals at any stage in their career
• Those who are seeking to enhance their skills and gain valuable insights
• Anyone looking to expand their network and connect with other area professionals
Date: Monday, September 16, 2024
Time: 1:00pm-4:00pm with an optional After Summit Social at the end of the event
Location: Woodlake Meeting Center, 210 Woodlake Dr., Rochester
Admission: $50 for members, $60 for general admission, $40 for RYT Network members, registration required by Friday, August 30
Dive into an engaging and informative workshop with your topic of choice. Our workshops are led by industry experts offering insight, advice, and training to impact your skills, both in business and in life. Topic options include:
• Leadership Styles and What That Means for You
• How to Prevent Burnout in the Workplace
PANEL DISCUSSION: INSIGHTS FROM LEADERS
Gain valuable insight as local leaders share about their career paths and lessons learned along the way whether from challenges or successes. Panelists include:
• Dr. Jeffery Boyd, President, Rochester Community and Technical College
• Zoey Jantsan, Realtor, Edina Realty and Chair of the Women's Roundtable
• And more to be announced soon online!
Agenda is subject to change.
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3NNa7XK
Event Sponsors
Maintaining a strong relationship between the business community and higher education is essential, and the EduTech Outlook event provides an ideal platform to do so. From updates on projects and initiatives, to identifying emerging workforce trends, this annual event fosters collaboration and engagement between the private sector and educational institutions.
With the rise in new technologies, the 2024 EduTech Outlook will include speakers on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. As these technologies become ever more important, hear from experts on the how of these technologies intersect with both business and higher education.
AGENDA:
• Cybersecurity/Artificial Intelligence
• Student Perspective Panel
• Higher Education Leadership Panel
Dates: Friday, September 27, 2024
Time: 8:30am-10:00am
Location: TBA
Admission: $35 for members, $50 for general admission, registration is required
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3zyQyhr
Event Sponsors
The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes the Rochester Area Community to join us for our third annual Winter Business Showcase!
Join 50+ Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Business Members as they showcase their businesses, services and connect with professionals throughout the Rochester region. Celebrate the wrap up of the election with the Chamber as you explore the expo and meet local business leaders.
Come enjoy light appetizers, a cash bar, and interactive exhibits. All attendees will have the opportunity to enter into multiple door prizes while they walk around and network with local Rochester businesses! This expo is open to the public - $5 cash admission and a business card at the door.
Dates: Tuesday, November 5, 2024
Time: 5:00pm-7:30pm
Location: Mayo Civic Center - Exhibit Hall, 30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester
Admission: $5 admission, open to the public
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3XY6e8b
Event Sponsors
Booth Spaces Available to Exhibit! Reserve a spot today by contacting Ally Sheehan at asheehan@rochestermnchamber.com
The Unstoppable Par Tee
While the weather wasn't on par for the Annual Golf Outing on Wednesday, June 12, we made the best out of the time we had together!
Thank you to all the sponsors, golfers, and Willow Creek Golf Course for your involvement.
We appreciate everyone's support and look forward to seeing you at our next Annual Golf Outing on June 16, 2025 at the Rochester Golf & Country Club.
SAVE THE DATE
The next Annual Golf Outing will be on June 16, 2025 at Rochester Golf & Country Club!
Event Sponsors
Altra Federal Credit Union CLA Custom Alarm
DBS Group, LLC Eagle Rock Bank
EO Johnson Business Technologies
EVEN Hotels / Staybridge Suites
F & M Community Bank
Home2 Suites by Hilton KIMT-TV KNXR - Minnesota
La Crosse Sign Group
McCaren Designs
Olmsted Medical Center
Premier Bank Minnesota
Reagan Outdoor Advertising
Think Bank
Weller Brothers Landscaping
DRINK CART
MULLIGAN
LUNCH & DINNER
TEE PRIZE
BIRDIE
CART
PUTTING GREEN
DRIVING RANGE
HOLE
Encourage Students to Pursue STEAM Careers
The STEAM Summit encourages more than 4,000 middle and high school students to pursue science, technology, engineering, art and math careers by connecting them to business and higher educational institutions which 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 businesses and industries competitive. This summit brings together over 100+ businesses, higher education, local government and our community to motivate and prepare students for an increasingly competitive global marketplace.
Dates: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Time: 8:00am-4:00pm
Location: RCTC Regional Sports Center, 851 30th Ave SE, Rochester
Admission: Free, registration required
Calendar of Events
View and register for all Chamber events at www.rochestermnchamber.com/events
AUGUST
2 AM Espresso - Rochester Civic Theater
Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: Rochester Civic Theater
6 Chamber Champions League (CCL)
Time: 8:00am-2:00pm
Location: Essex Park
7 Business Development Exchange (BDX)Budgeting
Time: 9:00am-10:00am
Location: Heartland Gun Club & Range
13 Business After HoursPremier Bank Block Party
Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm
Location: Premier Bank
15 WE Forum
Time: 11:30am-1:00pm
Location: Saint Mary's UniversityRochester Campus
16 Women's Roundtable
Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce
23 Chamber Weekend Kickoff
Time: 11:30am-1:00pm
Location: Saint Mary's UniversityRochester Campus
28 Eggs & Issues
Time: 10:00am-11:30am
Location: TBA
SEPTEMBER
10 Chamber Kickball Tournament
Time: 10:00am-5:00pm
Location: McQuillan Fields
13 AM Espresso - North Rock Hospitality Group
Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: Residence Inn Rochester Mayo Clinic Area South
16 RYT Summit
Time: 1:00pm-4:00pm
Location: Woodlake Meeting Center
19 Business After Hours - Reagan Outdoor Advertising
Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm
Location: Reagan Outdoor Advertising
20 Women's Roundtable
Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce
26 WE Forum
Time: 4:30pm-6:00pm
Location: Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's
27 Higher Education Outlook
Time: 8:30am-11:00am
Location: TBA
OCTOBER
4 AM Espresso - Rochester International Airport
Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: Rochester International Airport
17 WE Forum
Time: 8:00am-9:00am
Location: Saint Mary's UniversityRochester Campus
17 Business After HoursService Restoration
Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm
Location: Service Restoration
18 Women's Roundtable
Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce
NOVEMBER
1 AM Espresso - TSP
Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: TSP
5 Winter Business Showcase
Time: 5:00pm-7:30pm
Location: Mayo Civic Center
12 STEAM Summit
Time: 8:00am-4:00pm
Location: RCTC Regional Sports Center
14 Business After HoursMerchants Bank
Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm
Location: Merchants Bank
15 Women's Roundtable
Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce
21 WE Forum
Time: 11:30am-1:00pm
Location: Saint Mary's UniversityRochester Campus
Empowering Young Talent
With exclusive events and career development with the RYT Network
RYT Network (Rochester Area Young Talent Network) is a program that provides opportunities for young talent of the region to create connections, develop professionally and personally, and build relationships with industry, community, and the talent of tomorrow! Since its launch in September 2023, the RYT Network has been incredibly active with two events each month and over 150 members.
RYT Network members will have access to two monthly events. Details about the events including registration information is received through email newsletters.
EVENTS
By joining the RYT Network, young talent members can participate in:
• Networking events such as speed networking, pickleball, bowling, social hour, & more
• Community and industry engagement activities such as volunteering, behind the scene tours of industries, & CEO Connections
• Professional and career development sessions on topics such as budgeting, networking tips, perfecting an elevator pitch, & more
• Annual signature events including the upcoming RYT Summit on Monday, September 16
LEARN MORE
If you have questions or would like to learn more, please visit www.rochestermnchamber.com/ryt or contact Claire Henneman at chenneman@rochestermnchamber.com.
Program Gold Sponsors
Social at Kinney Creek Brewery
Volunteering at SPARK Children's Museum
CEO Connections
Industry Tour at Rochester International Airport
Sponsorship Opportunities
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 2025.
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: Thursday, August 1 –Saturday, August 31
• Open Enrollment: Sunday, 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: Saturday, November 30
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/chamber-meeting
View the 2025 CRC Guide by scanning or visiting https://bit.ly/3Y2t4LQ
Connecting Candidates & Commerce
Connecting Candidates & Commerce provided a platform for candidates to tour businesses and hear directly from them about the challenges and opportunities facing their business and how policy impacts their operations.
In June the Chamber launched a new series, Connecting Candidates & Commerce. This series fostered meaningful discussion and collaboration between declared candidates for local political office and the Rochester area business community. Connecting Candidates & Commerce provided a platform for candidates to tour businesses and hear directly from them about the challenges and opportunities facing their business and how policy impacts their operations.
A special thank you to our hosts: PossAbilities, Pace International, Fagan Studios, Custom Alarm and J.Powers at the Hilton. We were pleased to have candidates from school board and city council, all the way up to the U.S. House of Representatives and every level in between.
Claire Henneman joins the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce as the Workforce Initiatives and RYT Network Director.
Claire graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Stout with a degree in Hospitality Management with a Human Resource minor and is pursuing a master’s degree in Learning and Talent Development from her alma mater. Claire’s excitement for program development and initiatives stem from previous internships with Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company and HAP Alaska – Yukon. Originally from Wisconsin, Claire is looking forward to experiencing all Rochester and Minnesota has to offer including the bike trails and unique restaurants.
Welcome to the team, Claire!
Chamber Announces Staff Promotion
Director Jonathon Krull, Senior Director, Public Affairs & Leadership Development
Jonathon Krull has been promoted to Senior Director of Public Affairs and Leadership Development for the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce.
During his tenure, Krull has significantly expanded the Chamber’s advocacy efforts, launching The Advocate email newsletter, the Candidate Training Program, and Connecting Candidates and Commerce in 2024. His strategic vision and leadership have played a pivotal role in shaping the Chamber's legislative strategy and enhancing its lobbying efforts. Krull’s dedication to fostering strong relationships between the business community and elected officials significantly advances the Chamber’s lobbying efforts.
Krull continues to oversee Leadership Greater Rochester (LGR), which has seen consecutive growth in applicants. Alongside the LGR Steering Committee, Krull and team work to ensure LGR meets the needs of emerging leaders in the community. The Chamber looks forward to Jonathon's continued contributions in his new role, where his expertise will further drive impactful initiatives and strengthen community engagement.
Krull expressed, “It’s an honor to be recognized with this promotion. Through the collaboration of our tremendous Chamber team, we’ve expanded our portfolio of events while also increasing the value of Chamber membership. It’s an exciting time to be a part of the Chamber!”
Congratulations, Jonathon!
Chamber Launches Intercity Visit
This summer the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce introduced the Chamber Intercity Visit for an opportunity to learn best practices, develop ideas, and connect with business and public leadership from another community in our region. The inaugural Intercity Visit was hosted in partnership with the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce and included a delegation of leaders in business and government traveling to each community for experiences and discussions of policy, key development projects, and community challenges and highlights.
Thank you to the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce for their partnership and each respective community’s delegation that committed their time and involvement to the new Chamber Intercity Visit. The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce team will look forward to future installments in the Chamber Intercity Visit initiative in the years ahead. Stay tuned for more details about Intercity Visit in the upcoming October Advantage issue!
Leadership Greater Rochester Class of 2025 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 Cassandra Emmons with Hiawatha Homes who received the scholarship!
Learn more about this program at https://bit.ly/3lC7oW8
LGR Class of 2025 Sponsors
PRESENTING
PROGRAM
Delegation of leaders in business and government from Rochester that traveled to Sioux Falls for Intercity Visit in June.
Class of 2025
Amy Alexander Mayo Clinic
Kayla Betzold City of Rochester
Logan Bigelow Bigelow Homes
Reagan Bradwisch Lasker Jewelers & Diamonds
Troy Brenhaug Premier Bank Minnesota
Connor Burke Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc.
PROGRAM CHAIR
Therese White Think Bank
VICE CHAIR
Melissa Johnson U.S. Bank
Ryan Cardarella Mayo Clinic
Annie Douangdy Minnwest Bank
Cassandra Emmons Hiawatha Homes
Kevin Ewert Mayo Clinic
Eddie Fricker Think Bank
Derrick Fritz Olmsted County Public Health Services
Josh Gerber IBM
Derek Gifford The Boldt Company
Riley Hovelson Hiller's Flooring America
Juliana Lane Broadway Plaza
Lilly Londer Mayo Clinic
Sydney Mascorro Experience Rochester MN
Layke Moger Premier Bank Minnesota
Sydney Mook Post Bulletin
Kelli Morin IBM
Colin Patterson Mayo Clinic
Amanda Pelley Rochester Area Foundation
Jasmina Polis Mayo Clinic
Matthew Poulton Geotek Inc.
Maddi Ryan R&M Development
Erin Sinnwell Family Promise Rochester
Luke Thomas Mayo Clinic
Samuel Soukup Express Employment
Daniel Tschida-Reuter Mayo Clinic
Haley Stackenwalt Think Bank
Caer Vitek Mayo Clinic
Crystal Stockdale Chick-fil-A Ear of Corn
Beth Strapp Merchants Bank
Emily Taylor Kraus-Anderson Construction
Jen Walsky Mayo Clinic
Dana Wright KTTC
Caleb Wyman Great Planes Aviation
All nine eligible Mayo Clinic hospitals, including Mayo Clinic in Rochester, earned A grades from The Leapfrog Group, an independent national nonprofit organization that provides safety ratings. The ratings are intended to help patients choose their preferred healthcare destinations.
"Our staff's dedication consistently reinforces Mayo Clinic as the global authority in healthcare because they deliver the highest quality, safety and experience," says Sean Dowdy, M.D., Mayo Clinic's chief value officer.
Mayo Clinic Hospitals Score A Grades For Patient Safety Soldiers Field Aquatics Center Opens
The new Soldiers Field Aquatics Center (244 Soldiers Field Drive SW) opened up to the public on Monday, June 10.
“The completion of this community amenity is a monumental day for the City of Rochester and our Parks & Recreation team,” shares Paul Widman, Director of Parks & Recreation. “Thank you to all of the individuals who worked on and made this project come to life, especially the construction team, community partners, elected officials and others who put in the work and dedication to make this facility possible.”
AMENITIES AT THE NEW AQUATIC CENTER INCLUDE
• Lazy River with zero depth entry
• 3 Waterslide Tower (2 body slides and 1 tube slide)
• 50 meter activity and lap pool with a climbing wall, drop slide, basketball hoop and zip line
• Splash Pad with spray features, fountains and multilevel play structure
View more information about the Aquatic Center, including hours of operation and fees, online at https://bit.ly/4cINs94
"Participating in the external review also helps validate staff commitment to continuously improve our Culture of Safety along with our desire to influence industry standards for safety."
The all-new Soldiers Field
2024 summer.
Aquatics Center is open for the
Labor Force Participation Rate
Steady; Unemployment Rate Ticks Up
Minnesota's labor force participation rate remained at 68.0% in May, one of the highest in the country, according to numbers released today by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). Minnesota's unemployment rate ticked up one-tenth of a percent to 2.8%, which denotes a small loosening of the state's extremely tight labor market. Nationally, the unemployment rate ticked up one-tenth of a percentage point to 4.0% and the labor force participation rate fell twotenths of a percentage point to 62.5% over the month.
Additionally, after several months of job growth, Minnesota employers pulled back last month with the state losing 8,600 jobs from April to May on a seasonally adjusted basis, a 0.3% decline. Minnesota's private sector lost 9,800 jobs, down 0.4% over the month. Minnesota has gained jobs nine out of the last 12 months. The U.S. total nonfarm employment increased by 0.2%, with the U.S. private sector also up 0.2%.
"We'll be keeping a close eye on job and labor force growth. We continue to believe that job growth, particularly in certain sectors, is constrained by a lack of available workers with necessary skills," said DEED Commissioner
Matt Varilek. "DEED and our agency partners continue to reach out to Minnesotans looking for work to help them prepare for in-demand employment. Earlier this week, Governor Walz and Lt. Governor Flanagan announced grantees who will help prepare 2,100 Minnesotans from underserved communities for employment in construction, health care and manufacturing, among other sectors."
Minnesota wage growth is outpacing inflation as well as national wage growth. Average hourly wages for all private sector workers in Minnesota increased 14 cents, to $37.12, in May 2024 over the month. Over the year average hourly earnings increased $1.92, up 5.5%. For the U.S., private sector wages decreased 4 cents over the month and grew 4.0% over the year. The Consumer Price Index, a common measure of inflation, rose 3.3% over the year in May, meaning that wage growth in Minnesota has outpaced inflation over the year.
Regionally, job growth in the Rochester Metropolitan Statistical Area continued its strong streak, with over the year growth of 4,707 jobs, up 3.8%.
Rochester's Growth Highlighted
Recently, the Twin Cities Business magazine released their June/July issue with a profile on the growth and collaboration in Rochester.
This special section is brought to you with the support of the City of Rochester, Destination Medical Center, Experience Rochester, Mayo Clinic, Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, Rochester Area Economic Development, Inc., Rochester Downtown Alliance, and area businesses.
Read the full article at https://bit.ly/3zbuDN2
The June/July Twin Cities Businesss magazine focuses on Rochester's growth and collaboration.
Newsreels
Updates from the Chamber member community
WILLIAMS JOINS MERCHANTS BANK TEAM
Rochester native Michelle Williams has joined Merchants Bank as Director of Residential Mortgage Sales. Michelle has been in the mortgage industry since 1998, with most of her career spent at Wells Fargo. She is excited to bring her expertise to Merchants as she oversees all mortgage lenders and sales activity for Merchants’ 23 locations in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
NEW OWNERS & NAME
Dennis and Lynn Wong passed on the baton to long-time employees Dalton Shirley & Megan Redlin last month for Novios Café, formerly Dunn Brothers & Blue Plate Diner. Although Dalton & Megan plan to keep many of the classic recipes and roast the coffee in house, they’re introducing a wine café in the evenings with small plates and shareables. Cheers to new beginnings!
COOPER PROMOTED DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Knutson Construction has promoted Josh Cooper to Director of Operations. In his role, he continues to support operations and projects in Knutson’s Rochester and Mankato offices and ensures lasting relationships with clients and industry partners by providing The Knutson Experience.
ROCHESTER SYMPHONY’S NEXT MUSIC DIRECTOR
After an extensive two-year search, Chia-Hsuan Lin has been named the next Music Director of Rochester Symphony. Lin takes over from Jere Lantz, who had been in the role for 42 years. Her position with Rochester Symphony officially began on May 1. Her first concert season with the organization will be announced in July.
WEATHER SHIELD ROOFING REBRANDS
Welcome to a new era with Weather Shield Home Experts ! Formerly Weather Shield Roofing, this rebrand reflects their dedication to providing comprehensive and high-quality home exterior improvement services. Weather Shield Home Experts looks forward to continue building trust and enhancing homes across the greater Rochester area.
Newsreel Submissions
DRISKELL APPOINTED
TO MN BOARD OF SOCIAL WORK
Katherine Driskell MSW, LICSW, Program Manager of School Based Mental Health at Family Service Rochester, has been appointed by Governor Walz to the Minnesota Board of Social Work. Katherine’s appointment is a testament to her experience, scrupulous ethics, and advanced knowledge of social work practices.
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.
NEW GENERAL MANAGER & COO
Rochester Golf & Country Club is excited to announce the hiring of Chris Reis, CCM, CCE as their General Manager / COO. Chris has 26 years of management experience in private clubs throughout the Midwest. Most recently, he served in the role of General Manager / COO at the Country Club of Peoria in Peoria Heights, Illinois.
BURNS JOINS THINK BANK TEAM
Think Bank is pleased to welcome Tonya Burns as a Business Advisor in the Rochester area. Tonya is an experienced business banking professional who is passionate about helping companies grow and thrive. She earned her bachelor’s degree in financial management and accounting from Upper Iowa University and her MBA with a financial specialization from Saint Mary’s University.
YETZER APPOINTED ASSISTANT CITY ADMINISTRATOR
The City of Rochester has selected and appointed Ryan Yetzer as the new Assistant City Administrator to lead the Development Services and Infrastructure team. Yetzer most recently served as the Deputy Community Development Director and has a background as a long-range planner, economic development consultant, and he took a lead role in the development of the City’s awardwinning Unified Development Code.
PAPENFUS JOINS AS CONTROLLER FOR NORTH ROCK
Kindra Papenfus was hired into the new position of Controller of North Rock’s brokerage, property management and development divisions. In her new role, Kindra will help guide the company’s growth and increase its impact. Papenfus is a Certified Public Accountant with bachelor’s degrees in finance and accounting from Winona State University.
NEW PARENT COACH ADDED
Timeout Behavior Coaching is excited to announce the addition of Amy Addington to their parent coaching and behavior training team. Amy, mom of two teen daughters, brings nearly 20 years of educational expertise and passion to helping families know better, do better, and feel better. Reach out at www. timeoutbehavior.com to schedule with her!
NEW CLIENT SERVICES MANAGER
Christa Vande was hired into the new position of Client Services Manager of North Rock’s property management division. Vande will help coordinate facilities maintenance and manage customer service for North Rock’s expanding roster of multifamily housing tenants as well as office, retail and industrial tenants. Vande is a versatile and organized client experience leader with more than 15 years of experience in business administration, training and sales.
Ribbon Cuttings
REY DE LA BIRRIA celebrated their grand opening and Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on April 1st. Owner, Eddie Galindo, cut the ribbon.
AFFINITY PLUS CREDIT UNION celebrated the grand reopening of their remodeled branch with a ribbon cutting on April 4th. Branch Manager, Billie Packer, cut the ribbon.
SPRING TOUCH LAWN & PEST CONTROL celebrated their new location with a ribbon cutting on April 15th. Production Supervisor, Martin Stevens, cut the ribbon.
ROCHESTER WOMEN MAGAZINE celebrated their parenthood department with a ribbon cutting on May 9th. Account Manager, Acacia Ward and son, cut the ribbon.
HOMEWARD BOUND ANIMAL CLINIC celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on April 12th. Owner, Natalie Lucca and her son cut the ribbon.
RIVER CITY LAWNSCAPE INC. celebrated their Chamber memberhsip with a ribbon cutting on April 17th. Director of Sales, Justin Matsick, cut the ribbon.
BAD ASS COFFEE OF HAWAII celebrated their Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on March 29th. Owner, Johnny Mangouras, cut the ribbon.
LIVEA WEIGHT CONTROL CENTERS celebrated their Rochester location with a ribbon cutting on February 21st. COO, Andrea Sowers, cut the ribbon.
Welcome to the Chamber
Sarah Vanasse Miles
Sarah Vanasse Miles (507) 399-4526
2076 11th Ave SE, Unit A, Rochester, MN 55904 www.sarahvanassemiles.com
Full Circle Financial
Szablis Klee (612) 267-5727
1741 Second Street SW, Rochester, MN 55902 www.makesmartdecisions.com
Conoryea & Associates - American Family Insurance
Jennifer Conoryea (507) 281-1463
315 Elton Hills Dr, Suite 200, Rochester, MN 55901 www.amfam.com/agents/minnesota/eagan/jennifer-conoryea
Simpli.Fi
Kirk Rubado (507) 261-5489
128 East Exchange Ave, Suite 700, Fort Worth, TX 76164 www.simpli.fi
K2 & Co
Alex Saunders (612) 440-5659
161 St Anthony Ave, Suite 935, Saint Paul, MN 55103 www.k2andcompany.com
Common Sense Wellness Worldwide
Nils Peterson (507) 601-8061
521 7th St SW, #2, Rochester, MN 55902 www.commonsenseww.com/nils
