Advantage Magazine | December 2022

Chamber President

Ryan Parsons 507-288-1122

Membership Development Director Brent Ackerman 507-424-5666

Membership Director Kali Aldrich 507-424-5665

Communications & Design Director Sophia van Oss 507-424-5661

Director of Operations Cheryl Krage

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

Administrative Assistant Cherie Thurlow 507-288-1122

2021-2022

CHAMBER BOARD OFFICERS

Chair of the Board Treasurer John Eckerman RSP Architects

Vice Chair Scott Eggert Broadway Plaza

At Large Steve Dunn Taco JED

2021-2022

CHAMBER BOARD MEMBERS

Jessica Eidem IBM Corporation Secretary Dr. Christine Beech Copiavia

Santhi Arunachalam

Chad Behnken

Dr. Jeffrey Boyd

Dr. Lori Carrell

Jarett Jones

Marge Kelley

Post Bulletin, Co. Rochester Community & Tech. College

Sterling State Bank Heather Donovan

Xylo Technologies Inc. Hamilton Real Estate University of Minnesota - Rochester Remodeling D.L, LLC

Omar Nur

Sylwia Bujak Oliver

David Pederson

Jack Priggen

Merchants Bank Gillette Pepsi of Rochester Cardinal of MN, LTD. Dunlap & Seeger, P.A. 125 Live Somali American Social Service Assoc.

Doug Holtan

Abel Garcia Mayo Clinic

MISSION

The Chamber promotes business success which supports a thriving community.

Sharon Schneller

Gwen Stevens

Olmsted Medical Center

Christy Blade People’s Energy Cooperative

VISION

Rochester-area businesses are empowered to succeed in a diverse and collaborative climate.

Chamber Advantage USPS 446-900 is published monthly by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce at 220 S Broadway Ste 100 | Rochester, MN 55904 | Phone: 507-288-1122 Periodical Postage paid at Rochester, Minnesota | Annual Subscription: $20 (free to Chamber members) | Christy Blade, Chair of the Board | Editor: Katie Becker Postmaster: Send address changes to: Chamber Advantage, 220 S Broadway Ste 100, Rochester, MN 55904 or email: chamber@rochestermnchamber.com

ROCHESTER BOYS & GIRLS CLUB: A LONG-TERM IMPACT

Written by Maura Keller | Images provided by Rochester Boys & Girls Club and Dean Riggott

Here’s one thing we know: youth who come from financially unstable homes need guidance and support in reaching their full potential. And for more than 22 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Rochester has been serving underprivileged youth through various programming initiatives.

Although founded in 2000, the history Rochester Boys & Girls Clubs goes back even further, with passionate local leaders working hard to set the stage and get a brand new organization off the ground.

“They were a group of really hard working volunteer advocates that got this thing going,” says Chad Campbell, chief executive officer at Boys & Girls Clubs of Rochester. “I’ve only been with the organization for the past five years or so, but the 22-year history is filled with moving, building, renovating, and growing.”

At its core, the Boys & Girls Club is built to support kids in reaching their full potential. They mostly do that through out-of-

Most importantly, I find our Club to be a real family. It continually amazes me how the kids know and support one another in good times and bad. It’s really quite moving what happens at Club day-in and day-out. We’re very lucky to be a part of it.

schooltime programs (after school, summer, etc.) and they give particular attention to kids and families who are facing barriers to their greatest success.

“I like to think of our primary work as being in relationships – providing caring adult mentors for kids, and bringing kids together for mutual support with peers. Within that context, we offer programming for academic support, art, character and leadership, and healthy lifestyle,” Campbell says. “Most importantly, I find our Club to be a real family. It continually amazes me how the kids know and support one

Founded in 2000, the Rochester Boys & Girls Club has several volunteer opportunities, including out-of-schooltime programs.

another in good times and bad. It’s really quite moving what happens at Club day-in and day-out. We’re very lucky to be a part of it.”

Approximately 7,000 school-aged kids in Rochester live in financially unstable homes. As Campbell explains, each one of them could use a safe, affordable place to be after school and in the summer.

“And we don’t have the capacity to serve all 7,000 kids, so our goal and our vision is to grow. We want to meet kids where they are and grow our ability to serve more and more kids and make a bigger impact on our community,” Campbell says. “We offer a safe and nurturing place for kids of all ages to encounter people and experience things that they wouldn’t have encountered or experienced otherwise. We offer lots of program options within that basic framework –dance, theatre, painting, and other art classes; chess, and card game, and leadership groups; STEM education, homework support, reading, and tutoring opportunities. The offerings change frequently, and the options are unlimited!”

Samuel Hawkins II, director of programs at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Rochester says that “all youth that participate in programming begin to grasp social emotional tools to better identify big emotions and the tools to cope in a positive way. “The biggest benefit for our members is the inclusive nature of the Boys and Girls Club of Rochester,” Hawkins says. “Kids are able to attend the club and be their truest self. Whether it’s learning how to balance a budget in Money Matters, how to make a bounce pass in basketball, or how to create a character

in dungeons and dragons, there are safe and fun programs for all youth at the Club.”

Growth Potential

Originally the Club operated out of an old bank building near Cub Foods for a few years, eventually moving into the old Holmes School building.

“After some years in that space, we moved to the Gage East site while renovations and additions were built at Holmes School, giving life to what is now known as The Place. It’s a wonderful spot to do our work, and we have great partners in the building,” Campbell says.

During its longstanding history, the Club’s attendance has grown significantly and they’ve served thousands of youth in the Rochester area over the past two decades.

I can say that humbly because I’ve only been there for a few years, and so much of what’s been accomplished was long before my time,” Campbell says. “We hear stories every day about kids whose lives have been changed forever – helping them to unlock the potential they already had within, and overcome the barriers that hold them back.”

Boys & Girls Club of Rochester has a long and growing tradition of partnering with the business community. It’s important to the Club to involve local business leaders in the organization for several reasons, but most importantly because they know how important it is for businesses to support the youth of their local community.

“Our Club has had an incredible impact on the lives of so many kids in our community.

Dance program performing outside the Mayo Civic Center.

The Boys & Girls Club of Rochester is located within the former Holmes Elementary School.

Photos by Dean Riggott www.riggottphoto.com

“We work to create opportunities for businesses to engage – through public awareness campaigns, through volunteerism, through participation at events, and through sponsorship of core programs that align with their business goals,” Campbell says. “And we’ve been fortunate that the business community responds to that – and that so many businesses and leaders are so committed to supporting our kids and our Club.”

Throughout its history, the Club has had great relationships with volunteers and with corporate employee engagement. And that’s critically important throughout each year.

We hear stories every day about kids whose lives have been changed forever –helping them to unlock the potential they already had within, and overcome the barriers that hold them back.

“We have groups that help us in our office with document management, and groups that help with outdoor yard work, reading stories to kids, volunteer mentoring, STEM education, and so much more. Without those volunteers, we’d be lost,” Campbell says.

And often those engagements lead volunteers to deepen their involvement in Club – becoming longterm volunteers who mentor youth, or teach classes, lead programs – all of which are critical long-term relationships.

Looking ahead Campbell’s goal is for the Club to serve more kids and families, and deepen their impact in the community, which is going to require more partnership and connection throughout the community.

“I know our community will be able to step-up and make it happen: more business partnerships, more school partnerships, more funding,” Campbell says. “All of it will be needed, and I’m confident our community will make it happen, because we know what’s right for kids.”

Employee engagement opportunities for the business community include volunteering to teach classes and lead programs.

MEET THE MEMBER: CHAPTER AESTHETIC STUDIO

When science, art and dedication come together for the goal of making an individual the best version of themselves, in their own terms, Chapter Aesthetic Studio steps up! This team of trained professionals offers services ranging from facials, injections, contouring, laser treatment and more. Studio Manager, Tori Weybright, provided us with more information about this leading aesthetic studio.

Q: Tell us about Chapter Aesthetic Studio. What does your company offer to the Rochester region?

A: Chapter Aesthetic Studio is a leading aesthetic studio where everyone can experience the benefits of non-surgical cosmetic treatments. Chapter differentiates itself through our approach by creating aesthetic plans for our guests through our M.A.P process. A complimentary one-on-one consultation is provided to all new

guests. This consultation includes dermal imaging and a platform to discuss skin goals and concerns with one of our highly trained Aesthetic Advisors. Chapter helps guests define their objectives, customize their plans, start their journeys and finally, love their results. Clients leave with a customized aesthetic plan that maps out exactly what treatments and products their body needs to get measurable results. Chapter offers a full range of face, body and injectable aesthetic treatments. Some of the most popular treatments include Botox, dermal fillers, CoolSculpting, laser hair removal, medical-grade facials and peels, microneedling, PRP therapy and laser skin rejuvenation.

Q: How did it start for Chapter Aesthetic Studio?

A: Chapter Aesthetic Studio started in Fargo, ND as Rejuv. Melissa Rogne, founder and president, had a vision to make aesthetics accessible to every person – making them the author of

Tori, Studio Manager, Kami, Managing Clinical Director & NP, and Zoe, Aesthetic Care Specialist.

Kami performing a VirtueRF microneedling treatment.

their aesthetic. As Rejuv grew, so did the company. Acquired by The Aspen Group in 2020, Melissa’s vision is coming to life as studios expand across the country – opening 10 locations in 2022. Our Rochester location opened in March 2022 and is run by Khamal (Kami) Misra, clinical director, APRN, FNP-C and Tori Weybright, studio manager.

Q: Chapter Aesthetic Studio became a member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce in February. What do you find valuable in your membership to the organization?

A: We joined the Chamber of Commerce to become part of the business community of Rochester and be exposed to the many resources that the Chamber provides. Our ribbon cutting with the Chamber was such an incredible opportunity for our studio and we were very pleased to meet so many members of the organization. We are pleased to have the opportunity to work with other Chamber businesses and are looking forward to using the promotional opportunities that the Chamber provides to network and mingle.

Q: What is a unique fact people should know about Chapter Aesthetic Studio?

A: At Chapter Aesthetic Studio, our whole approach to medical aesthetics is unique. Our evidence-based method allows our guests to get a customized treatment plan for the goals they are looking to achieve. Additionally, all of our providers come with strong medical backgrounds and master 12 weeks of hands-on medical aesthetic training at Chapter University in Fargo, ND, where Chapter Aesthetic Studio originated. This rigorous curriculum was designed to ensure every guest receives the same level of care in all Chapter locations across the country.

We also offer all our guests to become a part of our Chapter family through The Circle membership. We call it The Circle because Chapter’s membership is a community of people who share a love for aesthetics — how it makes them look, but more importantly, how it makes them feel. There are also exclusive benefits, including member-only discounts, free monthly B-12 injections, invitations to member-only events, first-to-try products and early access to new treatments.

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

A: What started as one studio in Fargo, ND, is now an exciting movement to bring medical aesthetics to “Main Street.” When people think of medical aesthetics, they often think of Los Angeles, Miami or New York City. We believe women and men deserve to have access to quality aesthetic treatments and to feel empowered to look and feel their best – no matter where they live. The company has aggressive expansion plans across the United States throughout 2023 and 2024, focusing on communities where medical aesthetics options are limited. We are opening our fourth location in the MSP area in 2023 in Eden Prairie, which joins our Rochester, Eagan and St. Cloud studios along with new locations planned in other states in the coming years.

To learn more about Chapter Aesthetic Studio, visit them online at www.mychapter.com.

Brent Ackerman and Ambassador Tessa Olive at the ribbon cutting with Chapter’s Founder & President, Melissa Rogne and VP of Business Strategy & Development, Austin Wilson.

CHAMBER WELCOMES NEW STAFF MEMBER!

The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to introduce the newest addition to the Chamber team!

Sophia van Oss joined the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce as the Communications & Design Director in September. After graduating from University of Wisconsin - Stout with a degree in Graphic Design and Interactive Media she worked in the design and marketing field for six years. A project she worked on that you may have seen around town is the blue, “I wear for” Mayo masks.

While Sophia was born and raised in Minnesota, she moved to Rochester two years ago from Phoenix, Arizona. She is happy to call Rochester her home and is looking forward to working more closely with the community.

In her free time, she enjoys cross stitching, reading, playing video games and taking photos of her adorable pups!

At the Chamber, some of the projects you will see Sophia working on include the Advantage magazine, website, social media posts and email newsletters.

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.

When you stay with Hotel Indigo, you’re not just staying anywhere, you’re staying somewhere—within a vibrant community, in a unique boutique hotel that combines authentic local experiences, modern design and intimate service with the peace of mind and consistency of staying with one of the world’s largest hotel groups.

Date: Thursday, December 8, 2022 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm

Location: 220 Broadway Ave S, Rochester, MN

Admission: Free, registration required

Register here: http://bit.ly/3fXnOWe

Sophia van Oss

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.

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: Friday, January 6, 2023

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

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

Admission: Free, registration required

Register here: https://bit.ly/3Y9smdg

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.

Macken Funeral Home has been serving the Rochester community sing 1909. Their dedicated service to their customers will continue into the future with the same family-driven values passed down four generations from founder, Dan Macken.

Date: Thursday, January 19, 2023

Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm

Location: 1105 12th St. SE, Rochester, MN

Admission: Free, registration required

Register here: https://bit.ly/3HgLQ9Z

hosted by

hosted by

CELEBRATE THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We Have a Dream Celebration is an annual community event held on Martin Luther King Jr. Day to commemorate the life and work of Dr. King. With hundreds in attendance, this event is an excellent opportunity to promote a welcoming and inclusive community.

Date: Monday, January 16, 2023 Time: 8:00am-10:00am Location: Mayo Civic Center, 30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester, MN Admission: Free, registration required

Event location and format subject to change. Additional event details, including agenda, will be provided soon.

Register here: http://bit.ly/3XIKs5H

A REVIEW AND PREVIEW ON THE ROCHESTER ECONOMY

Keynote Speaker - Bernard

Baumohl

Economic Summit provides a current snapshot and forecast of the year ahead for the local, regional, and national economy, including insight into the economic trends impacting businesses in the Rochester region. Join us for this premier event on Thursday, January 31, 2023 to learn from industry leaders and our keynote speaker.

Date: Thursday, January 31, 2023 Time: 7:30am-11:00am (doors will open at 7:00am, program begins at 7:30am)

Location: Rochester International Event Center 7333 Airport View Dr. SW, Rochester, MN

Admission: $45 for members, $55 for non members, Registration is required

Agenda: Business Outlook Survey Results Presentation:

• Jennifer Hawkins, Extension Educator, Community Economics, University of Minnesota Extension

• Brigid Tuck, Senior Economic Impact Analyst, University of Minnesota Extension

Featured Keynote Speaker:

• Bernard Baumohl, Chief Global Economist at The Economic Outlook Group

Additional agenda contributors to be announced.

Register here: http://bit.ly/3VWscEa

Bernard Baumohl is chief global economist at The Economic Outlook Group. He is well known for being ahead of the curve in assessing the direction of the U.S. and world economy. In 2019, the Wall Street Journal ranked him as the most accurate economic forecaster. Mr. Baumohl began his career as an analyst with the Council on Foreign Relations, a think tank specializing in international affairs and national security. He later served as an economist at European American Bank with responsibilities to monitor the global economy. Mr. Baumohl was also an award-winning economics reporter with TIME magazine and covered the White House, Federal Reserve and Wall Street. In addition to his current role as chief global economist, Mr. Baumohl has taught at NYU, Duke University and Florida Gulf Coast University, and was as a regular commentator on TV’s Nightly Business Report.

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.

Benedictine Living Community offers two senior living communities in Rochester, MN: Benedictine Madonna Towers and Benedictine Madonna Meadows. Both not-for-profit communities provide friendly, engaging lifestyles and are committed to delivering compassionate senior care that’s rooted in our core values of Hospitality, Stewardship, Respect and Justice. We also honor the diversity of our residents, including people of all faiths, ideas and experiences.

Date: Friday, February 3, 2023

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Benedictine Madonna Towers, 4001 19th Ave NW, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration required

Register here: https://bit.ly/3W3tfCo

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.

When it comes to water in your basement or a faulty foundation, you need an expert to ensure the damage is reversed and prevented from occurring in the future. American Waterworks has several decades of experience in the basement waterproofing and foundation repair industries, and we know the best tools and techniques to see your home through its troubles.

Date: Friday, March 3, 2023

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: American Waterworks, 1307 Valleyhigh Dr NW, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration required

Register here: http://bit.ly/3W3ut0s

hosted by hosted by

RESEARCHING RURAL ENTREPRENEURS

Written by: Dean Swanson, volunteer Certified SCORE Mentor and former SCORE Chapter Chair,

Rural entrepreneurs are the subject of SCORE’s latest study in its “Megaphone of Main Street” research series, which spotlights overlooked and undervalued small business communities.

Although starting and growing a successful small business can be more difficult in rural America, it also can be more impactful. By creating jobs, stimulating innovation and nurturing productivity, small and locally-owned businesses can help rural towns and geographies prosper in ways that improve the physical, social and economic well-being of the people who live in them.

In the wake of COVID-19, small businesses are holding communities together, creating two-thirds of net new jobs in the United States while accounting for nearly half (44%) of U.S. economic activity, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).1 The bonds that small businesses create are especially strong in rural communities, which are home to one in five Americans or approximately 60 million people.

Indeed, businesses with less than 50 employees provide 42% of all jobs in rural America. That includes businesses of one, as their lack of population density means small towns historically have had higher concentrations of self-employed individuals than big cities.

“If you have a business that fixes air-conditioners and furnaces in a rural place, it’s not going to employ 1,000 people like it might in a major city,” noted Mark Partridge, a professor of economics at The Ohio State University, in a recent interview with the Federal Reserve Bank.4 “So you tend to see more small businesses in rural areas.”

Small businesses aren’t just more common in rural America, unfortunately they’re also more challenged. One reason is population stagnation, which is eating away at the supply of customers, employees and educators in rural communities.

While the population in rural areas has declined slightly over the last decade, falling 0.6% from 2010 to 2020, the population in urban areas has increased, growing 8.8% during the same 10-year period, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service (ERS).5

And then there’s poverty, the myriad impacts of which can impede the formation, growth and survival of small businesses. Although the rural poverty rate is declining, it remains elevated in rural America, reports ERS, which says 15.4% of Americans in rural areas live in poverty compared to 11.9% of Americans in urban areas.

Fortunately, small businesses are hard-wired to treat obstacles as opportunities. Although starting and growing a successful small business can be more difficult in rural America, it also can be more impactful. By creating jobs, stimulating innovation and nurturing productivity, small and locally-owned businesses can help rural towns and geographies prosper in ways that improve the physical, social and economic well-being of the people who live in them.

To ascertain the state of rural entrepreneurship and raise awareness about the needs of small businesses in rural communities, SCORE researchers asked a large sample of rural business owners how they’re faring in light of current events, what their greatest challenges are, and what can be done to satisfy their needs. Their findings are presented in two parts:

Part 1: Economic Anxiety Persists explores how business owners feel about the post-COVID economy and recovery, what their biggest challenges are and what solutions they believe will help them prosper.

Part 2: Hungry for Talent and Technology delves deeper into the effects of population trends on small businesses in rural communities and how they impede access to workers and technology, including the technology infrastructure, expertise and education needed to participate in the digital economy.

NEWLY APPOINTED PRESIDENT

About Rochester International Airport

Rochester International Airport (RST) is owned by the City of Rochester and operated by the Rochester Airport Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mayo Clinic. The Rochester International Airport is currently served daily by Sun Country, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, which collectively offer flights to Chicago, Phoenix, Fort Myers, and Minneapolis. RST provides air service to Southeast MN and border regions of Iowa and Wisconsin. Stay connected to RST at FlyRST.com and on Facebook/Rochester Airport and Twitter @flyrst.

About Great Lake Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives

Rochester International Airport

Executive Director

Named President of Great Lakes Chapter American Association of Airport Executives

Rochester, MN—October 28, 2022—John C. Reed, A.A.E, Executive Director of Rochester International Airport, was named president of the Great Lakes Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) for a one-year term, from 20222023.

“It’s an honor to serve as the Great Lakes Chapter President,” said Reed. “I have been a proud member since 2002 and actively involved along with the national organization, the American Association of Airport Executives for over 20 years. Both organizations promote the highest level of professionalism, in the operation and overall excellence in the administration of airports,” said Reed. “Now more than ever airports need to work with our local communities, business, and partners to foster and promote the development of air transportation in the United States as well as the world.”

The Great Lakes Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives was originally formed in1968. The states representing the GLC include Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. In 1991, the Canadian Provinces of Ontario and Manitoba joined the Chapter. AAAE founded in 1928, is the world’s largest professional organization representing the individuals who work at publicuse commercial and general aviation airports. AAAE’s 9,000 members represent some 875 airports and hundreds of companies and organizations that support the airport industry. Headquartered in Alexandria, Va., AAAE serves its membership through results-oriented representation in Washington, D.C., and delivers a wide range of industry services and professional development opportunities, including training, conferences, and a highly respected accreditation program.

HAWKINS ASH RANKED NATIONALLY

In 2022, Hawkins Ash CPAs, a regional full-service public accounting firm, moved from 200 to 181 on the INSIDE Public Accounting (IPA) national ranking of public accounting firms. Based on the 2022 annual IPA Survey and Analysis of Firms, Hawkins Ash CPAs reports 17 percent net revenue growth.

“We have resources in our Firm to take care of large and small clients and also provide opportunities for our staff to grow as leaders,” said Hawkins Ash CPAs Managing Partner Abe Leis, CPA. “This past year, we added a location in Wisconsin’s Fox Valley and have maintained and grown our client base in current markets.”

“Hawkins Ash CPAs will continue to grow in a way that benefits our clients and team members. The best thing I can do for a client is to make sure they succeed. By continuing to add expertise and develop talent is one way we will ensure this happens.”

IPA 100, 200, 300 and 400 firms are ranked by U.S. net revenues and are compiled by analyzing the more than 500 responses received this year for IPA’s Survey and Analysis of Firms. The full ranking is available online: https://insidepublicaccounting.com/ top-firms/ipa-500/

About Hawkins Ash CPAs

Hawkins Ash CPAs, an Inside Public Accounting Top 200 firm, provides certified public accounting services to privately held businesses, governmental organizations, nonprofit entities, housing authorities and credit unions. The Firm currently has Wisconsin offices in Green Bay, La Crosse, Manitowoc, Marshfield, Medford, Mequon, and Neenah, and Minnesota offices in Rochester, St. Charles and Winona. The Firm was founded in 1956. To learn more about Hawkins Ash CPAs, visit www.hawkinsash.cpa.

KELLEN BUILDING ‘TOPPING OFF’

On Oct. 17, city and civic leaders joined Mayo Clinic CEO Gianrico Farrugia, M.D., and Gregory Gores, M.D., Kinney Executive Dean of Research, to celebrate a milestone in the construction of the 11-floor Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Building. During the event, known as a “topping off” ceremony, Mayo Clinic and community leaders signed a commemorative beam that was then placed atop the building at the intersection of Third Street and Fourth Avenue Southwest in Rochester.

The topping-off ceremony signifies that the structure has reached its full height. The building, expected to open at the end of 2023, will provide 176,000 square feet for research to address unmet patient needs. It will include flexible facilities for basic and translational investigation to explore serious and complex conditions with a prominent focus on cancer research discovery. There will be six lead researchers based on each of the building’s 10 floors. Those 60 scientists will work with research teams, which will result in an estimated 500 to 700 people working in the Kellen Building.

Updates from the Chamber member community.

Rochester Symphony Conductor Retires

After 42 years conducting the Rochester Symphony, Maestro Jere Lantz will retire in December 2022. Rochester Symphony is executing interviews for a new music director, with plans to showcase several candidates in the upcoming 2023/2024 concert season before making a final decision.

New Design Technician

Design Technician Carla Stein has joined the 92-year-old firm TSP, Inc. where she will work from the firm’s Rochester office. Stein holds a bachelor’s degree in design and drafting technology with an architectural/structural emphasis and a minor in management from the University of Central Missouri. Before joining TSP, Stein worked as an architectural designer and drafter for a commercial construction company.

Architectural Graduate Joins TSP’s Rochester Office

Architectural Graduate Jarrett Abenstein has joined the 92-yearold firm TSP, Inc. where he will work from the firm’s Rochester office. Abenstein is a Rochester native. He earned a bachelor’s degree in interior design from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a master’s degree in architecture from the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago.

Newsreel Submissions

President’s Award

Commissioner Sheila Kiscaden received the prestigious President’s Award from the Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC). This award recognizes exemplary leadership in public service.

Commissioner Kiscaden received her award on Dec. 6 at the AMC Annual Conference Awards Banquet. Commissioner Kiscaden has spent her life in public service, with the last 24 as an elected official.

New Director of Campus and Student Services

Kendra Weber has been appointed as the director of Campus and Student Services for the Rochester campus of Winona State University. As the Director, Weber will provide leadership and will continue Strengths-based work with the WSU-R team.

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

Congratulations to the following members on their successful Ribbon Cuttings!

Seasons Hospice celebrated the 25th anniversary of the opening of the Seasons Hospice House on October 10th. Executive Director, Kristina Wright-Peterson cut the ribbon.

1696 Greenview Drive SW, Rochester www.seasonshospice.org

Honey Hair Couture celebrated their new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting. Owner, Madison Reichert cut the ribbon.

2571 Clare Ln NE, Rochester www.honeyhaircouture.glossgenius.com

Interiors By J. Curry celebrated their new location and new Chamber membership. Owner, Jessica Curry cut the ribbon.

212 North Broadway Ave., Rochester www.interiorsbyjcurry.com

DeCook Excavating celebrated their new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting. CFO, Alice Dietz cut the ribbon.

821 Country Club Rd SE, Byron www.decookexcavating.com

DeCook Landscaping & The Plant Shack celebrated their new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting. Office Manager, Sam Prigge cut the ribbon.

6262 Salem Rd SW, Rochester www.decooklandscaping.com

Real Deals celebrated their 5th birthday with a ribbon cutting on October 19th. Owner, Ashley Moberg cut the ribbon.

2050 Jordyn Road NW, Rochester www.rochester.realdeals.net

Wings Financial Credit Union celebrated their new Chamber membership and grand opening with a ribbon cutting on October 25th. Branch Manager, Lee Kulas cut the ribbon.

4287 West Circle Dr. NW, Rochester www.wingsfinancial.com

Rory’s Home Improvement LLC celebrated new owners and new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on November 2nd.

1131 3rd Ave SE, Rochester www.roryshomeimprovement.com

At TSP, we believe in going the extra mile. We take the time to talk, brainstorm, and spend time together which allows us to work better and create some of the area’s most innovative solutions.

WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER!

Introducing our newest members.

Erbert and Gerberts

Jacob Kersting (612) 559-2144

2848 41st St NW, Rochester, MN www.erbertandgerberts.com

SGN Professional Training

Sheila Neidert (818) 518-7182

831 Clover Lanes SW, Rochester, MN www.savostraining.com

Minnesota Mobile Exams

Truman Cox (507) 258-4680

401 16th Ave. NW, Suite 106, Rochester, MN www.minnesotamobileexams.com

Symmetry Acupuncture & Chinese Herbs

Sen Wang (507) 218-1264

2746 Superior Dr NW, Suite 207, Rochester, MN www.symmetrytcm.com

Barefoot Lawn & Snow

Jacob Lukkes (952) 406-1763

1332 Elton Hills Dr. NW, Rochester, MN www.barefootlawnandsnow.com

Woody’s Liquor

Bob Schmidt (507) 282-2426

316 Elton Hills Dr. NW, Rochester, MN www.woodysliquor.net

Danny’s Pizza

Sarah Alotaibi (507) 258-5528

1105 7th Street NW, Rochester, MN www.dannyspizzaroch.com

Lily Pad Consulting

Grayce Belvedere (612) 419-4695 www.lilypadconsulting.com

Interiors By J. Curry

Jessica Curry (507) 799-0032 212 North Broadway Ave., Rochester, MN ww.interiorsbyjcurry.com

Safeway Agency

Pete Henslin (507) 374-2933 401 16th Street SE, Suite 206, Rochester, MN www.safewayagencyinc.com

IBEW Local Union 343

Jim Backus (507) 282-7081

9 80th ST SE, Rochester, MN www.ibewlocal343.org

Nana Gogo Toybrary

Pavitra Kumar (507) 328-0673 2300 Superior Dr. NW, Suite 3, Rochester, MN www.nanagogotoybrary.com

Emma Jeanson Photography

Emma Jeanson (507) 251-5052 www.emmajeanson.com

Little Cubs Cleaning Services LLC

Giovanni Loera (507) 990-1372 www.facebook.com/littlecubscleaning

CALENDAR EVENTS of

DECEMBER

08 Business After HoursHotel Indigo

Date: Thursday, December 8 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm

Location: 220 Broadway Ave S, Rochester, MN

FREE - Registration required

15 Hospitality 1st Roundtable

- Holiday Happy Hour

Date: Thursday, December 15 Time: 4:30pm-6:00pm Location: Workshop Food Hall & Bar - Party Room 1232 3rd Ave SE, Rochester, MN

FREE - Registration required

16 Women’s Roundtable

Date: Friday, December 16 Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Saint Mary’s University Rochester - Cascade Meadow 2900 19th St NW, Rochester, MN

FREE - Registration required

JANUARY

06 AM Espresso - Reagan

Outdoor Advertising

Date: Friday, January 6 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: 3185 41st St NW, Rochester, MN

FREE - Registration required

16 MLK Jr. We Have a Dream Celebration

Date: Monday, January 16 Time: 8:00am-10:00am

Location: Mayo Civic Center, 30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester, MN

FREE - Registration required

19 WE Forum - Workshop

Date: Thursday, January 19 Time: 11:30am-1:00pm

Location: Saint Mary’s University Rochester - Cascade Meadow 2900 19th St NW, Rochester, MN Registration required

19 Business After HoursMacken Funeral Home

Date: Thursday, January 19 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: 1105 12th St SE, Rochester, MN

FREE - Registration required

31 Economic Summit

Date: Tuesday, January 31 Time: 7:30am-11:00am

Location: Rochester International Event Center, 7333 Airport View Dr. SW, Rochester, MN Registration required

FEBRUARY

03 AM Espresso - Benedictine Living Community

Date: Friday, February 3 Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: 4001 19th Avenue NW, Rochester, MN

FREE - Registration required

16 WE Forum - Social Connect

Date: Thursday, February 16 Time: 4:30pm-6:00pm Location: TBD Registration required

17 Women’s Roundtable

Date: Friday, February 17 Time: 7:30am-9:00am0

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

FREE - Registration required

220 South Broadway, Suite 100 Rochester, MN 55904 507-288-1122 www.RochesterMNChamber.com

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