Advantage Magazine | June 2022

ROCH ESTER

June 2022

A Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Publication

MINNESOTA

TOURISM IN ROCHESTER Full steam ahead!

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MEET THE MEMBER American Dialogue Company

CHAMBER WEEKEND KICKOFF Start your weekend with the Chamber team!

2022 ANNUAL GOLF OUTING See you on the green at our Annual Golf Outing!

Building?

Start with 5% down.

We share your home dreams.

Building a home that’s uniquely you - that’s important. It starts by talking about your goals so we can help you find a financing option that makes sense for you. As your financial partner, our team is committed to making your dreams a reality.

Nicole Williamson

Mortgage Lender (507) 536-3901 nmwilliamson@merchantsbank.com 1600 Greenview Drive SW, Rochester

Let’s build together.

Subject to approval.

Member FDIC

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Feature Tourism in Rochester: Full Steam Ahead

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Meet the Member

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Chamber News

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Community News

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Newsreel

American Dialogue Company

June 2022

What’s Inside

Cover Photo Credit: Experience Rochester Advertising Information: Brent Ackerman backerman@RochesterMNChamber.com

MAKE NO SMALL PLANS Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning | ISGInc.com

Advantage Information and Questions: Katie Becker kbecker@RochesterMNChamber.com

The Sanford Sports Complex will soon be home to 18 full-sized turf fields for baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, and more. The complex has over 1.6 million square feet of synthetic turf, making it one of the largest turf field projects in the United States!

Check out the video! bit.ly/SanfordSneakPeek

STAFF Chamber President Ryan Parsons 507-288-1122

Membership Brent Ackerman Development Director 507-424-5666

Public Affairs & Leadership Jonathon Krull Development Director 507-424-5677 Membership Director Tim Shea

507-424-5663

Events & Program Ally Sheehan Director 507-424-5687

Membership Director Kali Aldrich

507-424-5665

Communications Director Katie Becker 507-424-5661

Administrative Assistant Cherie Thurlow 507-288-1122

Director of Operations Cheryl Krage 507-424-5699

2021-2022 CHAMBER BOARD OFFICERS Chair of the Board Christy Blade

Treasurer James Kelly

Rochester Post Bulletin, LLC

Individual Member

Vice Chair John Eckerman

Secretary Emily Benner

RSP Architects

Boston Scientific

2021-2022 CHAMBER BOARD MEMBERS Santhi Arunachalam

Xylo Technologies Inc.

Lizzy Haywood

People’s Food Cooperative

Dr. Christine Beech*

Copiavia

Doug Holtan

Mayo Clinic

Chad Behnken

Hamilton Real Estate

Marge Kelley

Gillette Pepsi

Dr. Lori Carrell

University of Minnesota - Rochester

Omar Nur

Somali American Social Service Assoc.

Steve Dunn

Taco JED

Sylwia Bujak Oliver

125 Live

Scott Eggert*

Broadway Plaza

David Pederson

Dunlap & Seeger, P.A.

Jessica Eidem

IBM Corporation

Jack Priggen

Cardinal of MN, LTD.

Shawn Fagan

Fagan Studios

Joselyn Raymundo

Rochester Home Infusion

Abel Garcia

Remodeling D.L, LLC

Sharon Schneller

Olmsted Medical Center

Karen Hanson

Home Instead Senior Care

Gwen Stevens

People’s Energy Cooperative

*Denotes at large members of the Executive Committee

VISION

MISSION The Chamber promotes business success which supports a thriving community.

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

VALUES As a service organization, the Chamber is committed to conducting our work in accordance with the following values:

Collaboration | Diversity |Innovation Integrity | Proactivity 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

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TRAVEL & TOURISM IN ROCHESTER: FULL STEAM AHEAD

By Maura Keller

Rochester is all about

Photo Credit: Rochester International Airport (RST)

great travel adventures.

Sure the snow flies during the winter and the mosquitoes wreak havoc in the summer, but there’s nothing like spending time enjoying the activities the region has to offer. In fact, Rochester’s travel and tourism industry is nothing to scoff at—especially when you consider that tourism is a vital component of the region’s economy. Of course, the recent pandemic has proven to be a challenging factor that has impacted the Rochester community at large, but experts agree that we are on the road to recovery.

According to John Reed, executive director at Rochester International Airport, the worldwide travel restrictions resulting from the pandemic brought continuous volatility to the travel industry.

“However, leisure travel continues to recover or surpass pre-pandemic levels with pent up demand particularly for domestic travel. International demand is also ramping back up as travel restrictions are lifted,” Reed says. “We are carefully watching what travel insiders are calling ‘bleisure’ which combines business and leisure travel and its potential to permanently change the way people travel. The primary drivers are remote workforces and the ability to work from anywhere policies that now allow flexibility for people to travel more frequently and for longer periods of time.”

Joe Ward, president of Experience Rochester and the Mayo Civic Center is happy to report that the industry is on a road to recovery, thanks in part to

June 2022

Rochester International Airport (RST) saw a 50% increase in passengers this past year compared to 2020. the return of live entertainment to the Mayo Civic Center and the return of a strong Mayo Clinic patient volume.

“All-in-all, the recovery has clearly begun, but it will still take time to return to pre-pandemic levels,” Ward says. “Going forward, it is vital that we all continue to pitch in to support local businesses. They represent what is uniquely Rochester and celebrate the diversity of our community through unique retail, art, dining and lodging experiences.”

It’s In the Numbers

Rochester International Airport (RST) saw 201,932 passengers come through the airport last year, an increase of 50% from 2020. While business travel hasn’t fully returned in the region, the lead story for passengers in 2021 was the leisure travel market.

“Our region welcomed new non-stop seasonal air service to Phoenix and Ft. Myers from RST. This new leisure service helped to stimulate travel recovery for our region,” Reed says.

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F Feature Photo Credit: Experience Rochester

Events such as concerts and sporting events draw in large crowds to the Rochester area.

And according to Andy Thilges, area director of sales, North Rock Hospitality Group, at the start of the pandemic in April 2020, we saw citywide occupancy of only 15.9%. That compares with a normal City of Rochester occupancy during the previous comparable year of nearly 70%.

“Guests are finding their way back to Rochester and this is due first to Rochester being home to Mayo Clinic. It is also a testimonial to the resiliency of the medical market – clearly showing the patient segment still needing care despite being in a pandemic,” Thilges says.

“Every event from volleyball competitions to dance contests to annual corporate meetings came to a big halt,” Thilges says. In 2022, Rochester is expected to host 90 major sports events. The economic impact of sports is tremendous when you think of $16.6 million dollars, over 17.000 room nights, and 118,000 visitors – all in 2021. The Rochester area is pushing to add more physical building space so more events can be held. Infrastructure investment in the $65 million range is being sought. This will enhance our ability as a city to host more events citywide.”

The average rate for a guest room was $109.45 in the City of Rochester in 2021, up only 1.3%. But, in 2022, the rate is coming around and is now increasing 12.9% for 2022.

In addition, over the past year occupancy has stabilized against the pre-pandemic rise in occupancy to a high of 65%.

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“In addition, the convention market took a big drop in 2021 with $1.2 million in cancelled events at the Mayo Civic Center. However, Mayo Civic Center still had $5.3 million in confirmed bookings for 2021,” Thilges says. “And, lodging tax revenue for the City of Rochester continues to improve from a high of $10.556 million in 2018 to a low of $5.679 million in 2020 to improved hotel lodging tax revenues of $7.877 million in 2021.”

Adding to a growing field of new hotels, Rochester saw hotel openings in the Hyatt House, Staybridge

June 2022

Feature F Suites, and TownePlace Suites by Marriott – all joining the market in 2021 and increasing the total hotel room supply in the area to 6,500.

As we are just emerging from the pandemic, it’s hard to quantify overall tourism impact. However, as Reed points out, Rochester just hosted back-to-back state political conventions for the Republican and DFL parties. The estimated economic impact from just these two conventions is $2.3 million in direct spending in the community, including on lodging, dining, shopping, gas and other services.

“We look forward to continuing to host more and more large groups, from conventions to medical meetings and amateur sporting events,” Reed says.

“Their presence in the community is not only a great infusion to the local economy, but a great way to introduce and reintroduce Rochester to thousands of visitors from all over Minnesota and the United States.”

Tourism’s Vital Role

explains, all the measures of tourism, occupancy in hotels, average rate in hotels, and revenue per available room are all going up for 2022.

Occupancy is up 20.8% YTD, ADR 12.9% and revenue per available room up 36%.

“That bodes well for hotels and their ability to attract and service our visitors and the collective impact for retail stores, and restaurants to provide needed clothing, food, beverage, and other related products,” Thilges says. In addition, 2022 is proving to be a great year for live entertainment in Rochester with over 30 concerts planned with an attendance of almost 50,000 attendees.

“The Rochester business community is a wide group of stakeholders that all benefit from tourism. From airlines to charter bus services to hotels and restaurants, and even the retail/service sector, each of them benefits from every tourism dollar spent in Rochester,” Thilges says. “The average visitor to Rochester spends: $1,200 to $2,155 a week while in Rochester or $172 to $308 per day. We love Rochester and see a bright future awaits us.”

Tourism will always be an important development priority for the Rochester community as it supports jobs and helps to generate tax dollars that are reinvested into community infrastructure improvements and services that enhance quality of life.

“At the heart of our story, RST remains a destination airport that serves the needs of medical travelers coming to Mayo Clinic,” Reed says.

“The biggest impact we can offer to all travelers is an experience that seeks to put the customer first through agility and accountability, responsiveness to stakeholder needs, and empowerment of staff to embed safety and security in all that we do.”

Photo Credit: Experience Rochester

The average visitor to Rochester spends $1,200 to $2,155 a week on restaurants, lodging, retail, and other local businesses.

Industry experts agree that the travel and tourism industry in Rochester is l ooking bright As Thilges

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Advantage Magazine | 7

M Meet the Member

MEET THE MEMBER: AMERICAN DIALOGUE COMPANY Our school children are the future, and

Regina Seabrook, Owner of American Dialogue Company, whole-heartedly believes in that, which is the reason she started American Dialogue Company. As a former educator, Regina knows first-hand how important our education system is, and started this educational consulting business to help uplift educators and students.

Q: Tell us more about American Dialogue

Company. What does your company offer the Rochester region?

A: American Dialogue Company, LLC was born out of my vision for how we can live, learn and prosper together as members of a multiracial and culturally diverse country. Collectively, we hold so much promise and potential. It’s our responsibility, as educators and community members, to bring out the best in our students. We need America’s school children to thrive and to innovate! They are our future.

American Dialogue Partner, LLC is a thought partner for school and district leaders engaged in developing and implementing educational equity focused strategic plan goals and initiatives. We support schools and school districts as they expand access to opportunity for historically underserved students. We are part of making the American Dream possible for the children in our communities.

Owner of American Dialogue Company, Regina Seabrook, founded ADC to bring out the best in our students.

We provide facilitated dialogues about race, culture and bias for school boards, school and district leadership and educators. We also provide coaching using the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) as well as professional development and consulting services focused on culturally

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responsive practices. Please check out our website at americandialoguecompany.com to learn more.

Q: How did it start for American Dialogue Company?

A: After working in and partnering with schools and districts across the state for the past 22 years, I recognized that I could, in partnership with others, provide several needed services to school leaders and educators who are focused on high academic

June 2022

Meet the Member M outcomes for all students and who recognize that instructional practice as well as culture and climate conditions within schools can be meaningfully and effectively addressed to facilitate student achievement and success.

Q: American Dialogue Company became a

member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce in November of 2021. What do you find valuable in your membership to the organization?

A: I value being a member of an organization that champions the entrepreneurialism and financial independence of everyday people. I think it is important for people to feel a sense of control over their own destiny and be supported in developing products and services that support community vitality. The chamber is symbolic of what is possible when we dare to dream big! I am appreciative of networking, mentorship and educational offerings.

The members of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce are some of the most thoughtful, compassionate, kind, hardworking and determined people one could ever meet!

Q: What is a unique fact people should know about American Dialogue Company?

A: American Dialogue Company, LLC is a Midwestern educational consulting business owned by an African American woman of Gullah and Finnish ancestry from Cloquet, MN.

Q: What is the outlook for your business and

industry?

A: The outlook is bright. There is much work to be done to support the success of Minnesota’s diverse school children.

To learn more about American Dialogue Company, visit them online at www.americandialoguecompany.com

American Dialogue Company provides facillitated dialogues about race, culture, and bias for school boards, schools and district leadership, and educators.

June 2022

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C Chamber News

hosted by

hosted by

Join us for Business after Hours (BAH), a monthly

AM Espresso is a monthly Networking PLUS event

Come and connect, expand your network, and build community while enjoying Treasure Island Resort & Casino on Wednesday, June 22 from 4:30PM - 6:30PM.

Come join fellow Chamber and community members to expand your network, promote your business, and enjoy delicious breakfast refreshments.

For the month of July, you are invited to AAA Rochester.

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.

Date: Wednesday, June 22, 2022 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Tado Steakhouse at Treasure Island Resort & Casino, 5734 Sturgeon Lake Rd., Welch, MN Admission: Free, registration required

Register here: https://bit.ly/3kWQcH7

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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.

Date: Thursday, July 14, 2022 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: AAA Rochester, 1525 Greenview Dr. SW, Rochester, MN Admission: Free, registration required

Register here: https://bit.ly/3t2xulZ

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Chamber News C

CHAMBER WEEKEND KICKOFF IS BACK! Event Partner:

Event Sponsors:

Start your weekend with the Chamber team! The

Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to bring back Chamber Weekend Kickoff! We welcome members to join us for a free lunch and connection with other fellow members on Friday, June 17th. The Chamber will be grilling and serving lunch from 11:30am-1:00pm at the Saint Mary’s University Rochester Campus - Cascade Meadows.

This is the first Chamber Weekend Kickoff of the summer, keep an eye out for future dates!

Quantities are limited and registration is requested and greatly appreciated.

Thank you to Saint Mary’s University Rochester Campus, Pepsi-Cola and Ye Olde Butcher Shoppe for their partnership and support of the Chamber Weekend Kickoff.

Golf & Getaway AT THE ISLAND

Grab your team and co-workers and meet us at Cascade Meadows for lunch on us to start your weekend off right! We hope to see you there!

Register here: https://bit.ly/3l6NnmB

Take on the challenge of Mount Frontenac Golf Course! This stunning 18-hole, par-71 course is a golfer’s paradise featuring rolling terrain, beautiful scenery and unmatched views of Lake Pepin and the Mississippi River.

If you’re looking for the ultimate getaway, get your game on with one of our golf hotel packages. You’ll receive a luxurious hotel stay at Treasure Island Resort & Casino, golf at Mount Frontenac, FREE slot play & more! Visit TIcasino.com or mountfrontenac.com for more information or to reserve your stay today!

T I c a s i n o . c o m | 1 - 8 0 0 -2 2 2 -707 7 © 2022 Treasure Island Resort & Casino

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SEE YOU ON THE GREEN AT THE 2022 ANNUAL GOLF OUTING! Creek Golf Course! The day will be filled with great networking, good food and exciting golf. The team with the lowest score will be awarded the President’s Cup. We are thrilled that Knutson Construction is now the Title Sponsor for our 2022 Golf Outing!

The 2022 Annual Golf Outing will take place on Monday, June 20th at Willow Creek Golf Course.

We are currently sold out of teams, but please call (507) 424-5687 or contact Ally Sheehan at asheehan@RochesterMNChamber.com to be placed on the waitlist.

Date: Monday, June 20, 2022 Time: 9:30am-7:00pm Location: Willow Creek Golf Course, 1700 48th St. SW, Rochester, MN Agenda: Registration: 9:30 - 11:00AM Shotgun Start: 11:00AM Dinner & Awards: 5:00PM-7:00PM

The 42nd Annual Chamber Golf Outing will take place on Monday, June 20th at the beautiful Willow

While teams are currently sold out, we do have a waitlist and a few sponsorship opportunities still available!

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

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Title Sponsor:

Eagle Sponsors:

Lunch & Dinner Sponsor:

Cart Sponsor:

Drink Station Sponsor:

Birdie Sponsors:

Hole Sponsors: Altra Federal Credit Union APX Construction Group CLA Custom Alarm DBS Group F & M Community Bank

Haley Comfort Systems KIMT KNXR - MN 97.5 La Crosse Sign Group MetroNet Northwestern Mutual

Driving Range Sponsor:

June 2022

Olmsted Medical Center ONB Bank Premier Bank Rochester Reagan Outdoor Advertising ServiceMaster of Rochester Think Bank

Tee Prize Sponsor:

Labovitz MBA

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C Chamber News

SQUEEZE THE DAY - LEMONADE DAY IS JUNE 11TH! Main Squeeze Sponsor:

ROCHESTER, MN

Lemonade Day is a free, fun, experiential learning

Fresh Squeeze Sponsors:

program that teaches local youth entrepreneurial and life skills as they learn how to start their very own business. 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!

Support local young entrepreneurs on June 11th by going around the Rochester area and stopping at local lemonade stands!

Lemon Drop Sponsors:

Date: Saturday, June 11, 2022 Location: Rochester, MN Admission: Free, registration required

Learn more here: lemonadeday.org/rochester-mn

Lemon Drop Sponsor: Wells Fargo

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Chamber News C

CHAMBER WELCOMES NEW STAFF MEMBERS! college graduate, Kali brings her experience from marketing, sales, mass media, public relations, and sports operations. Being a Rochester local has helped Kali find her true passion; networking with new people. At the Chamber, she educates businesses about Chamber membership and provides them with essential resources to help them succeed. In her free time, Kali enjoys sports, travel, and outdoors.

Kali Aldrich

Ally Sheehan

The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to introudce our newest additions to our team!

Kali Aldrich joins the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce as Membership Director. As a 2018

Youth & Adult Programs Resume Review Career Planning Career Exploration Networking Job Boards Free Training Resource Area Mock Interviews

Ally Sheehan joins the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce as the Events & Program Director.

Ally graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a degree in Recreation Administration. The past seven years she was the Summer Camp Program Director at Camp Manito-wish YMCA. In her free time, Ally likes to craft, be outside, and spend time with friends, family and her cat, Binx!

100% FREE

www.workforcedevelopmentinc.org June 2022

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C Chamber News

LEADERSHIP GREATER ROCHESTER INTRODUCES THRIVE OUTSIDE LEADERSHIP GREATER ROCHESTER CLASS OF 2022:

Members of the LGR class of 2022 present their Community Engagement Project, Thrive Outside, at the May 21 celebration.

On May 21st the Leadership Greater Rochester

Class of 2022 was joined by Rochester Mayor Kim Norton at Rochester Community and Technical College for the reveal of their completed Community Impact Project, the Thrive Outside Winter Activities Trailer. This trailer is stocked with a variety of winter equipment such as sleds, snowshoes, broomball sets, igloo block makers, snowman kits, and a portable fire pit. The Thrive Outside Winter Activity Trailer is designed to promote the social, mental, and physical well-being of underserved communities in Rochester. Starting this winter, you can reserve the trailer for your neighborhood for free by visiting the City of Rochester Parks and Recreation website at https://www.rochestermn. gov/government/departments/parks-and-recreation/activities-classes/mobile-recreation.

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Katie Adelman Rochester Downtown Alliance Caitlin Alexander KTTC-TV Jeff Anneke DBS Group Wendy Bacon Think Bank Nathan Bates Mayo Clinic Tyler Broberg Bremer Bank Sandra Burrowes Mayo Clinic Josh Cooper Knutson Construction Valerie Cooper Think Bank Angela M Cramer Mayo Clinic Sarah Dhanorker Mayo Clinic Ally Hanten Ebert Jeremiah Program Mike Ellena Hiller Commercial Floors Aaron Evans IBM Jungwei (Fred) Fan Mayo Clinic Johanna Ficatier Mayo Clinic Sara Flick Mayo Clinic Kyle Gilbertson IBM Joel Goodew Smart-HR Nicole Guerton Mayo Clinic Amy Hebl Olmsted County Justin Hitt The Boldt Company Melissa Johnson U.S Bank Tyler Kaczmarek Kraus-Anderson Construction Luke M Kroeplin U.S Bank Mindy Lucas Avra Hospitality Elsa Maas Olmsted County Jammie McGuire Ronald McDonald House Cindy Morgan MnDOT Erin O’Brien Experience Rochester Chris Petree WSB Michelle Priggen Cardinal of MN Mirwais Qader Rochester Community & Technical College Steve Rabatin HGA Architects & Engineers Sarah Schettle Mayo Clinic Anne Wright Mayo Clinic Labs

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C Community News

LEGAL STEPS EVERY SMALL BUSINESS SHOULD TAKE

By Dean Swanson, volunteer Certified SCORE Mentor and former SCORE Chapter Chair, District Director, and Regional Vice President for the North West Region

As an entrepreneur, you are a special breed. Not

afraid to dream big and take risks, you also know that a dash of common sense is the key to the best job in the world: owning your own business. In this column I will share an example of the resources that are available on a given topic. I have chosen to use the topic of legal steps that every small business CEO should consider and then provide a resource article for each step as they traverse these challenges for their business. Think of it as your legal toolkit.

Before turning your inspiration into reality, make sure you stay grounded by following these simple steps to launch your small business, boost your sales and limit your liability.

1. Decide on a Business Type The type of entity you choose for your business-whether it’s a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability corporation, or s-corporation--determines how you file taxes, sets up legal protections, and most importantly limits your liability. Incorporating your business also records these details with the government.

Learn more by going to this article: https://www.score.org/resources/matter-type-your-business-entity 2. Protect Yourself With a Business Prenup Launching with a partner? A buy-sell agreement protects everybody from situations that could complicate ownership. If one partner wants out, gets divorced or passes away, the buy-sell agreement can protect against sticky situations when ownership shares transfer to the wrong person.

Learn more by going to this article: https://www.score.org/resources/covering-yourback-buy-sell-agreement

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3. Map Out a Corporate Blueprint Corporate bylaws specify the structure for your small business. Will you have a board of directors, shareholders or other company officers? Corporate bylaws get these ducks in a row and specify the rules and meeting schedule. It’s basically the blueprint of your company.

Learn more by going to this article: https://www.score.org/resources/define-your-structure-corporate-bylaws 4. Draft a Solid Business Plan Business plans wear two hats: they provide you with an outline to help you stay focused on your small business goals and strategies, and they can be used to present to banks and investors when you need to drum up some financing.

Learn more by going to this article: https://www.score.org/resources/developing-strategy-business-plan To read more, visit SCORE’s website at https://bit.ly/3lC7k6d

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Community News C

CUSTOM ALARM NAMED ‘BEST PLACE TO WORK IN SE MN’ Staff from Custom Alarm celebrate being named ‘Best Place to Work in SE MN’.

Custom Alarm was recently recognized by

Workforce Development Inc. with the title of “Best Places to Work in Southeast MN”, for the sixth straight year.

stronger together and are facing the challenges head on as a team. Receiving this award is something I continue to be proud of and humbled by and consider myself fortunate to be named as one of the ‘Best Places to Work’ and it is thanks to the team here who I strive to ensure they want to come to work and take care of our customers and each other every day.”

Custom Alarm excelled again in many areas throughout the 40-question survey, which led them to receiving this great honor. Some areas where Custom Alarm excelled was in population growth of the company in the top 20% of companies with employee growth and lowest turnover.

The purpose of the program is to recognize some of the best employers in our local area and provide vital information to companies about the practices they use to attract and retain employees.

Each company participating was required to complete a 40-question survey that allowed their employment practices to be analyzed by the consulting firm of Personnel Dynamics Consulting of Florida. The data was measured on parameters as: turnover, rate of growth, promotion rates, employee evaluations and feedback, percentage of employee injured, diversity of management, benefits offered, training expenditures, paid days off and increase in pay.

“Finding out we received this recognition for the 6th straight year was fantastic news, especially after another year of challenges,” states Custom Alarm CEO Melissa Brinkman. “I continue to be extremely proud of the team here at Custom Alarm and can’t say enough great things about them and feel privileged to work alongside them every day. It is important to have a healthy culture and provide a positive work environment to foster and encourage great teamwork. After another year of working through many unknowns we grew even

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C Calendar of Events

CALENDAR of EVENTS

JUNE 03

AM Espresso - Home Federal Savings Bank

Date: Friday, June 3, 2022 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: 2048 Superior Dr. NW, STE 400, Rochester, MN FREE - Registration required

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Lemonade Day

Date: Friday, June 11, 2022 Time: All day Location: Rochester, MN FREE and open to the public

17

Women’s Roundtable

Chamber Weekend Kickoff

Date: Friday, June 17 Time: 11:30am-1:00pm Location: 2900 19th St. NW, Rochester, MN FREE - Registration required

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2022 Annual Golf Outing

Date: Monday, June 20 Time: 9:30am-7:00pm Location: 1700 48th St. SW, Rochester, MN Sold out of teams

22

Businesss After Hours Treasure Island

Date: Wednesday, June 22 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: 5734 Sturgeon Lake Rd., Welch, MN FREE - Registration required

23

Date: Friday, June 17 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: 220 S Broadway Ave. Suite 100, Rochester, MN FREE - Registration required

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20

Hospitality 1st Roundtable

Date: Thursday, June 23 Time: 9:00am-11:00am Location: 30 Civic Center Dr. SE, Rochester, MN FREE - Registration required

23

WE Forum - Connect

Date: Thursday, June 23 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: 2031 14th St. NW, Rochester, MN FREE - Registration required

JULY 14 AM Espresso - AAA

Date: Thursday, July 14 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: 1535 Greenview Dr. SW, Rochester, MN FREE - Registration required

15

Women’s Roundtable

Date: Friday, July 15 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: 220 S Broadway Ave. Suite 100, Rochester, MN FREE - Registration required

21

Businesss After Hours American Waterworks

Date: Thursday, July 21 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: 1307 Valleyhigh Dr. NW, Rochester, MN FREE - Registration required

AUGUST 05 AM Espresso PossAbilities

Date: Friday, August 5 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: 1808 3rd Ave. SE, Rochester, MN FREE - Registration required

June 2022

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NEWSREEL Updates from the Chamber member community.

New Director of County Public Health Services

Altra Promotes Scott Fischer

Promotions at Think Bank

New Additions to ONB Bank

Olmsted County Public Health Services (OCPHS) Associate Director Denise Daniels will continue her career with the county as the next director of Public Health. Daniels officially began the position on April 11, 2022.

Altra Federal Credit Union is happy to announce the promotion of Scott Fischer to Assistant Vice President, Real Estate Sales. Fischer began his career with Altra in 2017 as a Loan Originator in Winona, MN. He quickly rose to become the Real Estate Market Manager for Minnesota, Tennessee, and Texas. Fischer brings over 20 years of lending and sales experience to his new position.

Think Bank promoted Jeff Ihrke (left) to Chief Risk Officer and Sarah Vandersnick (right) to Vice President of Internal Audit earlier this week.

The long-planned promotions of Jeff and Sarah are part of a restructuring of the risk and compliance functions at Think following the retirement of Senior VP/General Counsel Steve Spohn on April 1.

ONB Bank is pleased to announce Paula Hitterdal (left) has been hired as Loan Administrative Specialist. Brandi Lind (center) has been hired as an Assistant Branch Manager and Relationship Banker.

Aunna Jonsgaard (right) has accepted the position of Business Banking and Cash Management Specialist.

Driskell Joins Family Service Rochester

New Board of Directors Elects

Katherine Driskell joins Family Service Rochester as the School Based Clinical Program Supervisor. Katherine obtained her Masters in Social Work at the University of Minnesota and comes to FSR with extensive experience providing clinical services and clinical supervision in a variety of settings.

Molly Jungbauer (left) and James Rogers III (right) were elected to the Merchants Financial Group, Inc. (MFGI) Board of Directors.

Jungbauer, CPA, is CEO of Hollstadt Consulting, a technology consulting firm in Eagan. Rogers is Chief Business Development Officer for Mayo Clinic. Both bring cognitive diversity and a depth of expertise to the MFGI Board. Learn more merchantsbancom/ board

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R Ribbon Cuttings

Ribbon Cuttings

Congratulations to the following members on their successful Ribbon Cuttings!

Bush Companies

Bush Companies celebrated their new location with a ribbon cutting on May 3rd. Owner, Kenneth Bush, cut the ribbon.

4115 26th St. NW, Suite 103, Rochester, MN www.bushcompanies.com

Eastwood Grill

Eastwood Grill celebrated their new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on May 4th.

Owner, David Nogosek, cut the ribbon.

3505 Eastwood Rd. SE, Rochester, MN

Minnesota Minority Trades Council

Minnesota Minority Trades Council celebrated their new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on May 3rd. Executive Director, Kenneth Bush, cut the ribbon.

4115 26th St. NW, Suite 103, Rochester, MN www.mnminoritytrades.org

RAWE Beauti Skin + Body Bar

RAWE Beauti Skin + Body Bar celebrated their Grand Opening and new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on March 5th, Owner, Artika Adams, cut the ribbon.

311 1st Ave. NW, Rochester, MN www.rawebeauti.com

Fairway Independent Mortgage

All Braids & Hair Care

3273 19th St. NW, Suite 3, Rochester, MN www.yourwaymortgage.com

1700 Broadway Ave. N, Suite 132, Rochester, MN www.allbraidsandhaircare.com

Fairway Independent Mortgage - The Kris Heichel Team celebrated their new location with a ribbon cutting on May 12th. Senior Loan Officer, Roxanne Hellickson, cut the ribbon.

22 | Advantage Magazine

All Braids & Hair Care celebrated the Grand Opening and new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on May 16th. Owner, Lola Oloye cut the ribbon.

June 2022

Welcome W

WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER! Introducing our newest members.

Rawe Beauti Skin + Body Bar

Chip Shots

Honor Dental

Weller Brothers Landscaping

The Battleground

Salon Chic

Minnesota Minority Trades Council

Med City Marathon

Fathom Real Estate

Lemke Pest Control, LLC

Artika Adams (507) 519-2242 311 1st Ave. NW, Rochester, MN www.rawebeauti.com

Andrew Greenslade (507) 288-1101 2112 Viking Dr. NW, Rochester, MN www.thulldental.com

Brad Vigesaa (507) 322-6767 1802 2nd St. SW, Rochester, MN /www.thebattlegroundmn.com

Kenneth Bush (507) 272-1056 4115 26th St. NW, Suite 103, Rochester, MN www.mnminoritytrades.org

Randy Stocker (507) 722-6999 1641 8 1/2 Ave. SE, Rochester, MN www.fathomrealty.com

Ryan Utterback (507) 361-0401 3708 N Broadway Ave., Rochester, MN www.chipshots.us

Brent Weller (507)884-8999 2907 County Rd. 16 SW, Rochester, MN www.wellerbrothers.com/locations/rochester-mn/

Sarah Hellerud (507) 273-1196 1625 N Broadway, Rochester, MN www.mysalonchic.com

Evin Haukos (320) 249-9155 725 1st St. SW,, Rochester, MN www.medcitymarathon.com

Scott Lemke (507) 259-1077 5391 Castleview Dr. NW, Rochester, MN www.lemkepest.com

Do you know of a business that has recently opened in Rochester? Are you connected to a business-owner looking to expand their network? Then a Chamber membership is right for them!

Please contact chamber@rochestermnchamber.com with any referrals.

June 2022

Advantage Magazine | 23

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

Rochester, MN

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