August/September 2011 by TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

August/September 2011

Directions www.twinwest.com/directions

Setting the Standard. Leading the Way.TM

2011-2012 Chair Prepares To Take the Helm page 4

County Wheelage Tax Fails to Pass—page 3

Profile: Plymouth Mayor Kelli Slavik—page 6

26th Annual Golf Classic—page 7

2011-2012 Board Nominees—page 9

President’s Message Hennepin County Board Rejects Wheelage Tax On July 21, the Hennepin County Board took up a measure to impose a $5 wheelage tax on vehicles within the County, including commercial vehicles. The taxing mechanism—currently in place at several metropolitan counties but not Hennepin or Ramsey—would generate estimated annual net revenue of $4 million dollars for the purpose of paying for 30-year bonds issued to build the Lowry Avenue Bridge. TwinWest opposed this measure which ultimately was rejected by the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners based on these reasons: 1) While this new revenue is to be offset in the general fund, there is no guarantee that a permanent $4 million dollar annual reduction, accruing to the benefit of lower property taxes, can be assured for the duration of the bond payments. 2) It’s plausible that a permanent property tax reduction may have certain benefits to the business community when compared to the proposed wheelage tax; however, a wheelage tax may also make businesses less competitive in the entire 11 county metro area. 3) TwinWest encourages further vetting of this issue, as part of a broader budget and taxation discussion, as Hennepin County works to diversify its revenue streams to fund important projects and operations. The business community recognizes the pressures on local government and the need to fund important transportation and transit projects. As such, we look forward to future conversations with Hennepin County on issues like this one as we work together to improve our economy, grow jobs, and make Hennepin County an attractive place to locate and expand businesses. Contact TwinWest Government Affairs Director Judy Johnson at (763) 450-2226 with your thoughts on any of TwinWest’s policy positions.

Bruce Nustad, president

TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

Directions—August/September 2011

Introducing the 2011-2012 Chair Gregory E. Korstad Prepares to be TwinWest’s “Skipper” Gregory Korstad is no stranger to leadership. On his boat on Lake Superior (GAVIIDAE), he is the gracious, yet commanding skipper. As a shareholder at Larkin Hoffman Attorneys, he has led hundreds of clients through complicated land use, environmental and regulatory proceedings. Korstad served the public trust as Isanti County Attorney from 1979-1986. In addition, he has applied his expertise to the Minnesota State and Hennepin County Bar Associations and provided leadership to several political action committees including TwinWest’s. All these experiences and more have readied Korstad to lead the TwinWest Chamber Board of Directors when current chair Dannette Coleman’s term ends September 30. Korstad has served on the TwinWest Board twice. In addition, he has been on the TwinWest Political Action Committee Board for over a decade and chaired TwinWest’s Government Affairs Committee, including emceeing Legislative Breakfast. With these experiences and a passion for ensuring the interests of the business community are represented before government, Korstad plans to help TwinWest strengthen its local community impact and influence. ―It’s our job—specific to the western suburbs—to understand the unique importance we have in our local and state economy, and TwinWest’s business community needs to continue to be

heard and involved,‖ says Korstad when talking about his intended direction for TwinWest. Korstad cites transportation and transit interests as key examples of the kind of issues where TwinWest has and will continue to play a role. Korstad acknowledges that TwinWest is important to its members not only in public policy issues, but also in business networking, community connections and professional development. ―In each of TwinWest’s areas of service to members, the old adage is true—the benefits and impact belong to those who show up. Under my leadership, members will continue to have great opportunities to participate in their business community and strengthen their organizations,‖ comments Korstad when pondering his best advice to members. Additionally, Korstad wants to apply a few nautical principles relating to what he calls ―the TwinWest family.‖ Korstad spent a year on the TwinWest Foundation Board as incoming chair in addition to his many years on the TwinWest Chamber and TwinWest Political Action Committee boards. Having served on all three organizations, he feels there are areas where the three organizations can work together more efficiently and more effectively. ―A boat on the water needs everyone and all the systems onboard to work well and function together for the best, safest, \

and most fun trip. TwinWest and its affiliates need to evaluate how we best work together to accomplish the goals of each organization. It’s a great family already, and I want to make sure we are maximizing our mission,‖ says Korstad. On why the TwinWest chair position appeals to him, Korstad says, ―I’ve spent a good number of years guiding and advising clients relating to their options. I am excited to bring those same methods and philosophies to my leadership role at TwinWest. I will be the kind of skipper who checks the compass and double checks the charts to ensure we are heading in the intended direction, relies on the expertise of the crew, listens for changes in the way the boat sounds, addresses the seas as they come, and makes sure the passengers are having a good time.‖ TwinWest is grateful to Korstad for his years of service and appreciative of his willingness to lead the business community. Korstad’s ship sets sail on October 1, 2011, the beginning of our new leadership and fiscal year. Link | Greg Korstad’s Profile

TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

Directions—August/September 2011

Profile

Plymouth Mayor Kelli Slavik Elected: Plymouth City Council in 1999, and as Mayor in 2007 Term: Four years City: Plymouth E-mail: kslavik@plymouthmn.gov Phone: (763) 509-5007 Education: B.S. Political Science & A.A.S. Paralegal Studies Family: Husband David and two children, Grant (13) and Sara (11) Committees/Organizations: Plymouth Civic League board member, and Minnesota Board of Firefighter Training & Education board member What initially sparked your interest in running for office? I became interested in city government when there was a development concern in my neighborhood. I rallied my neighbors and attended Planning Commission and City Council meetings. I became involved in the process and appreciated how a regular citizen could have an impact on their neighborhood and the city as a whole. That fall there was an open seat on the Council, and I filed for office and was elected. What are the biggest issues facing your city? Even though Plymouth is in excellent financial shape, the economy does have an

impact on us. The City has been treading cautiously and is very mindful of the economic impacts on our citizens. For the last two budget cycles we have not raised our tax levy, but have continued to provide excellent city services. Continuing that will be a challenge. Growth and redevelopment are issues that are currently in front of the city. Maintaining our strong commercial/industrial base and keeping jobs in Plymouth are important. What is your favorite part of being mayor? I enjoy going to the schools to talk to students about how local government works and I also enjoy getting into our businesses and learning about what they do and what their needs are. What initiative are you most proud of during your time as mayor? The Plymouth City Sampler event that is held each spring. I was looking for an alternative to the town hall meeting concept because they had not been well attended. The City Sampler gives residents an opportunity to come to City Hall to learn about city services and meet with me and the City Council on an informal basis. Several hundred residents attend each year.

What advice do you have for TwinWest members to make an impact or be more involved in city government? Contact us! Let your voices be heard. I don't hear from the business community very often, but if there are any issues that I can assist them with, I welcome the opportunity to get involved. I have learned a lot about our business community by just touring facilities and learning about what they do. What is your favorite city landmark? Parker's Lake and the beautiful gardens and fountain surrounding it. What is something from your past or present that people would be surprised to know about you? I used to be terrified of speaking in public. I overcame that when I found a college speech class that counted as math credits. Link | City of Plymouth

TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

Directionsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;August/September 2011

TwinWest Golf Classic Thank You 26th Annual TwinWest Golf Classic Supporters! Thank you to those who braved the weather for the originally scheduled Golf Classic on August 1. The Golf Classic has been rescheduled for August 8. Join us for great golfing, food, contests, prizes and fun! Thank you to participants and sponsors for your support of TwinWest initiatives and the TwinWest Foundation scholarship program. Event Details: 26th Annual TwinWest Golf Classic—Rescheduled Monday, August 8, 2011 Golden Valley Golf & Country Club Noon—8:00 p.m.

AWARDS

BEVERAGE

DESIGN & PRINTING

DRIVING RANGE

GOLF CARTS

GREENS

FOURSOME PHOTOS

LUNCH

PUTTING GREEN

Additional details I TwinWest Golf Classic—Rescheduled

TITLE SPONSOR

SIGNAGE

SCORE CARDS

HOLE SPONSORS

CORPORATE SPONSORS

TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

Directions—August/September 2011

Members

Welcome New Members Alliance Benefit Group 8220 Commonwealth Drive Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Cary Rothschild CONSULTANTS-BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL HUMAN RESOURCE CONSULTING Autoporter Leasing Services, Inc. 10895 Excelsior Boulevard, Suite 202 Hopkins, MN 55343 George Drouches AUTOMOBILE DEALERS AUTOMOBILE LEASING Barnes & Thornburg LLP 225 South 6th Street, Suite 2800 Minneapolis, MN 55402 David Gotlieb ATTORNEYS Creative Corporate Catering 4921 Boone Avenue North New Hope, MN 55428 John Youngdahl CATERERS Devcon Security Services 2600 Fernbrook Lane North, Suite #134 Plymouth, MN 55447 Justin Hallen SECURITY SYSTEMS & EQUIPMENT Golden Valley Tire & Service 600 Decatur Avenue North Golden Valley, MN 55427 Scott Kildahl AUTOMOBILE REPAIRS, SERVICE & PARTS RETAIL STORE

Granite City Food & Brewery 5402 Parkdale, Suite 101 St. Louis Park, MN 55416 Jeannie Farley RESTAURANTS Group 3 Marketing 1907 East Wayzata Boulevard, Suite 200 Wayzata, MN 55391 Bart Foreman MARKETING Ness Plastic Surgery 2805 Campus Drive, Suite 485 Plymouth, MN 55441 Kathy Beattie PHYSICIANS Patterson Thuente Christensen Pedersen P.A. 4800 IDS Center, 80 South 8th Street Minneapolis, MN 55402 Pat Girod ATTORNEYS Pazazz Salon and Day Spa 7759 Medicine Lake Road Golden Valley, MN 55427 Carolyn Rottinghaus BEAUTY SALONS & SPA SERVICES Reliable Data Protection Inc. 330 South Second Avenue, Suite 780 Minneapolis, MN 55401 Douglas Arndt COMPUTERS-CONSULTING SERVICES

Shred Right, a Rohn Industries Company 862 Hersey Street St. Paul, MN 55114 Jim Beran DOCUMENT DESTRUCTION RECYCLING SERVICES Smile Design Dentistry 3475 Plymouth Boulevard, Suite 100 Plymouth, MN 55447 Michael Mrosak DENTISTS HEALTH CARE SuNu Wellness Center 12455 Ridgedale Drive, Suite 203 Minnetonka, MN 55305 Susan Quigley CHIROPRACTORS The 401k Latte Co/The Peter McClellan Show 10543 165th Street West Lakeville, MN 55044 Sally McClellan FINANCIAL ADVISORS The Four Firkins 8009 Minnetonka Boulevard St. Louis Park, MN 55426 Jason Alvey LIQUOR STORES RETAIL STORE

TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

Thompson Patent Law Offices PC 4205 Lancaster Lane North, Suite 104 Plymouth, MN 55441 Craige Thompson ATTORNEYS

Chamber Champions Thank you to these champions for referring new members to TwinWest. David Lenzen, Liberty Diversified International Pam Muldoon, Next Stage Business/ Next Stage Business Radio Network Raechell Pullett, Integra Telecom Sales Department Scott Plum, Minnesota Sales Institute Greg Rye, R & R Business Development Company Bob Schlichte, Grand Casino Steve Wise, Cass Screw Machine Products If you know someone whose business would benefit from membership, contact TwinWest’s Jacqui Sauter at (763) 450-2228, or jacqui@twinwest.com. When your new member joins we’ll issue you $35 in TwinWest credit.

Directions—August/September 2011

Members

Pamela Ostrom, Volunteer Superstar! TwinWest is pleased to announce Pamela Ostrom of Lynx Leadership as our August 2011 Volunteer Superstar. Over the course of the past year, Pamela has been very generous with her time and her expertise on the Small Business Awards Task Force and the Grow Minnesota! initiative. Thanks in part to her valuable insight, the Small Business Awards Taskforce was able to select six great finalists for the Small Business Awards event in May. She has also leveraged her connections in the local business community to arrange key business visits for Grow Minnesota!. Thank you Pamela for all of your great work!

2011-2012 Board Nominees The following individuals are scheduled to be presented to the TwinWest membership for election to the Board of Directors at the October 13 Annual Celebration event. Gordy Engel, owner, The Foursome Fine Apparel and Shoes Pat Mascia, senior vice president of Minneapolis/St. Paul operations, Duke Realty Corp. Matt Thompson, metropolitan district manager, U.S. Bank

Renewing Members

Investment Management ION Corporation Olympus Financial Advisors Shred-N-Go, Inc. T.G.I. Friday's

25+ Years Berg Law Offices, P.A. Linsk Flowers Minneapolis Mart NAPCO International LLC Park Nicollet Clinic Schechter Dokken Kanter CPAs YMCA - Northwest Branch Youngstedt's Goodyear 21-24 Years White Oaks Wealth Advisors, Inc. YMCA - Ridgedale 16-20 Years Children's - Minnetonka Grant Thornton LLP Haworth & Company, Ltd. Paradise Charter Cruises Lake Minnetonka Watson Forsberg Co. 11-15 Years Benilde-St. Margaret's School Coverall of the Twin Cities, Inc. Dale Carnegie Training Dunwoody College of Technology Hampton Inn Minneapolis-Minnetonka Jani King of Minnesota, Inc. Memorial Blood Centers Principal Financial Group Williston Group 6-10 Years CEAP Concordia University Famous Dave's Plymouth GoldenCare USA, Inc. Graham Jewelers Hazelden Center for Youth and Families High Five Hopkins Business & Civic Association

TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

1-5 Years Alert Fire & Safety Allegra Print & Imaging - Plymouth Brunberg Blatt & Co. Buffalo Wild Wings - Plymouth Cbeyond Color Direct Cooper Irish Pub & Restaurant Crown Marking, Inc. Duke Realty Corp. Effective Learning for Growth Enventis Estate Development Corp. Evolve Systems Hennepin Commissioner - Johnson, Jeff IamaBasketCase.com Integra Telecom Sales Department KLC Financial, Inc. Lock Up Self Storage, The March Enterprises, LLC Money Mailer Minneapolis West Money Mailer Twin Cities New Horizon Academy - Berkshire Nexpro Personnel Services Parkshore Senior Campus Payroll Post LLC Pittsburgh Blue RMC Warehousing Solutions Smooth Sail International LLC State Farm - Tracy Taylor Agency Success Computer Consulting Sun Newspapers Syngenta Twin Cities Orthopedics Vinland National Center Virginia Antony, Realtor - Edina Realty

Directionsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;August/September 2011

Member Orientation Thank you new members introduced to TwinWest at June’s Member Orientation TwinWest hosts Member Orientation every month on the first Wednesday, 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m., at the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce office in Plymouth. Member Orientation is a great opportunity to get to know your Chamber and better understand your involvement options. Left to right: Chris Wiles, TDS; Cari Doucette, Trillium Woods; Margaret Jacques, Bachman's; Steve Forbes, TDS

Left to right: Todd Erager and Bill Loe, Touchstone Testing dba Any Lab Test Now; Lindsey Manhart, American Family Insurance; Drake Metzger, Doyle Hance, LLC

To discuss specific membership opportunities, contact TwinWest’s community and member engagement director, Chris Kirwan, at (763) 450-2223. Link | August Member Orientation Session: August 3 Link | September Member Orientation Session: September 7

Left to right: Diane Malone, Jennifer Childs, Linda Gasch and Meg Sondergaard, Accounting Resource Group, Inc.

Left to right: Beth Mathiason and Karol Baumeister, Brown College

TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

Directions—August/September 2011

Member Orientation Thank you new members introduced to TwinWest at July’s Member Orientation

Left to right: Chris Duffy, Goff Public; Brittany Hestad, Burl Oaks Golf Club; Kathy Beattie, Ness Plastic Surgery; Scotty Kildahl, Golden Valley Tire & Service

Left to right: Patty Hoben, KLC Financial; Dr. Liz Gingrey and Vicky Luedtke, SuNu Wellness Center; Phyllis Foreman and Bart Foreman, Group 3 Marketing

To discuss specific membership opportunities, contact TwinWest’s community and member engagement director, Chris Kirwan, at (763) 450-2223. Link | August 3 Member Orientation Session Link | September 7 Member Orientation Session

Left to right: Craige Thompson, Thompson Patent Law Offices; Justin Hallen, Devcon Security Services; Virginia Thompson, Anthem College; Adam Lowler, St. Paul Saints; Dr. Mike Mrosak, Smile Design Dentistry

TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

Directions—August/September 2011

Snapshots

Link | www.twinwest.com/photos

Crystal/New Hope Golf Outing

Business Showcase at Verizon Wirelessâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Ridgedale

Overtime at Woodland Hill Winery

Speed Networking for a Cause TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

Directionsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;August/September 2011

August/September Calendar... Wednesday, August 3 Member Orientation | link 8:00 – 9:00 a.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: No cost to attend Find out about everything the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce has to offer and maximize your membership.

Thursday, August 4 Power Partners Networking | link 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: $75/year. Pre-registration required. Power Partners is a networking program that helps members exchange business leads and build relationships.

To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane, just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. TwinWest is on the right.

To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. TwinWest is on the right.

Thursday, August 4 St. Louis Park Business Council | link 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. Wolfe Lake Professional Center, 5000 36th Street, St. Louis Park Investment: No cost to attend.

Thursday, August 4 Ribbon Cutting: Chyten Educational Services | link 4:00 – 6:00 p.m., 5:05 p.m. ribbon cutting Chyten Educational Services 3525 Plymouth Boulevard, Plymouth Host tel. (952) 270-4363 Investment: No cost to attend.

The Saint Louis Park Business Council is for business and civic leaders who want to have a voice in local government and grassroots issues. To get there: Take Highway 100 to Highway 7. Turn left on Highway 7. Turn right on Belt Line Boulevard. Citizens Independent Bank is located in the Wolfe Lake Professional Center.

Join the TwinWest Ambassadors as they help celebrate the opening of Chyten Educational Services in Plymouth. Learn about the Chyten Educational Services business model and meet your business neighbors. To get there: From 494 take Highway 55 west to Plymouth Boulevard. Take a right on Plymouth Boulevard.

Friday, August 5 Network Connections Networking Group | link 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: $75/year. Pre-registration required. Network Connections meets twice a month, but practices referral exchanges each and every day. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. TwinWest is on the right. Monday, August 8 Annual Golf Classic—Rescheduled | link Noon—7:00 p.m. Click link for the latest details. Thursday, August 11 Member Talk: Cost-Effective, Affordable Tech Tools for Small Businesses | link 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: No cost to attend. .

At the August 11 Member Talk program, Brian Roemen with Backpack Tactics will present some of the top tech tools for budget-conscious businesses. .

Tuesday, August 16 TwinWest Prospective Member Forum: Your Questions Answered | link 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: No cost to attend. TwinWest invites you to a one-hour forum to learn how to grow your network and improve the business climate through your local chamber of commerce. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. TwinWest is on the right. Wednesday, August 17 Government Affairs Committee Meeting | link 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: No cost to attend. Discuss public policy issues impacting the business community. All members are welcome to participate. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane, just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. TwinWest is on the right.

To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. TwinWest is on the right.

TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

Directions—August/September 2011

...August/September Calendar Wednesday, August 17 Overtime at Kip’s Irish Pub | link 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Kip’s Irish Pub, 9960 Wayzata Boulevard, St. Louis Park Host tel. (952) 367-5070 Investment: No cost to attend.

Thursday, August 18 Network Connections Networking Group | link 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: $75/year. Pre-registration required.

Join TwinWest and Kip’s Irish Pub for this months Overtime. What could be better than taking advantage of Kip's new refurbished outdoor patio and a TwinWest networking event both at the same time?

Network Connections meets twice a month (the first Friday and third Thursday of each month at the TwinWest office), but practices referral exchanges each and every day.

To get there: Take 394 to Hopkins Crossroad/County Road 73. Turn right on Hopkins Crossroad and then turn right again on North Frontage Road/Wayzata Boulevard. Kip’s is on the left in the Marriott Minneapolis West. Thursday, August 18 Crystal/New Hope Business Council | link 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. Liberty Diversified International, 5600 North Highway 169, New Hope Host tel. (763) 536-6600 Investment: No cost to attend. The Crystal/New Hope Business Council is for business and civic leaders who want to have a voice in local government and grassroots issues. To get there: Take Highway 169 North to the 49th Avenue North exit and turn right. Turn left on to Independence Avenue North.

To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. TwinWest is on the right. Thursday, August 18 Power Partners Networking | link 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: $75/year. Pre-registration required. Power Partners is a networking program that helps members exchange business leads, provides business advice and builds relationships. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. TwinWest is on the right.

Wednesday, August 24 Business Showcase at Arc Greater Twin Cities | link 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Arc’s Value Village, 2751 Winnetka Avenue North, New Hope Host tel. (763) 544-0006 Investment: No cost to attend, includes light lunch. Network with area business leaders, enjoy a complimentary light lunch, and learn about TwinWest member Arc Greater Twin Cities. A complimentary light lunch will be available. To get there: From Hwy 169 take the Medicine Lake Rd./27th Ave. exit East. Arc’s Value Village is on the left at the corner of Medicine Lake Road and Winnetka Ave. Saturday, August 27 Hiring Our Heros Minnesota | link 11:00 a.m.—4:00 p.m. Learn about this veterans hiring fair. Thursday, September 1 St. Louis Park Business Council | link 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. Wolfe Lake Professional Center, 5000 36th Street, St. Louis Park Investment: No cost to attend. The Saint Louis Park Business Council is for business and civic leaders who want to have a voice in local government and grassroots issues.

Thursday, September 1 Power Partners Networking | link 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: $75/year. Pre-registration required. Power Partners is a networking program that helps members exchange business leads and build relationships. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. TwinWest is on the right.Friday, Friday, September 2 Network Connections Networking Group | link 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: $75/year. Pre-registration required. Network Connections meets twice a month (the first Friday and third Thursday of each month at the TwinWest office), but practices referral exchanges each and every day. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. TwinWest is on the right.

To get there: Take Highway 100 to Highway 7. Turn left on Highway 7. Turn right on Belt Line Boulevard.

TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

Directions—August/September 2011

...August/September Calendar Wednesday, September 7 Member Orientation | link 8:00 – 9:00 a.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: No cost to attend Find out about everything the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce has to offer and maximize your membership. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane, just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. TwinWest is on the right. Thursday, September 8 Member Talk: For Members, By Members | link 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: No cost to attend. .

All members are welcome to TwinWest at this informal problem-solving and networking session. Held in the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce board room, this session will provide an opportunity to brainstorm with other Chamber members about any issue affecting your business while you expand your professional network. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. TwinWest is on the right.

Friday, September 9 Legislative Breakfast: Series Kick-off | link 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. Doubletree by Hilton— Minneapolis Park Place, 1500 Park Place Boulevard Host tel. (952) 542-8600 Investment: Members $30; Nonmembers $40.

Thursday, September 15 Crystal/New Hope Business Council | link 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. Liberty Diversified International, 5600 North Highway 169, New Hope Host tel. (763) 536-6600 Investment: No cost to attend.

The TwinWest Chamber of Commerce’s Legislative Breakfast series is Minnesota’s premier legislative and political forum. Each breakfast unites compelling, well-known speakers and state legislators with more than 150 business leaders from across the Twin Cities.

The Crystal/New Hope Business Council is for business and civic leaders who want to have a voice in local government and grassroots issues.

To get there: From I-394 take the Park Place/Xenia exit. Go south on Park Place Boulevard, and then turn right on 16th.

Get your Legislative Breakfast Series Pass Now! As a Series Pass holder you save 15% on the entire Legislative Breakfast series and are guaranteed a seat at all ten breakfasts throughout the year. A Series Pass will, once again, be available for only $255 for members. Series Passes are transferable, so if you can’t make it to one of the breakfasts, you may assign it to a friend or colleague. Just contact us in advance so we can make the change. Purchase your 2011-2012 Series Pass here.

To get there: Take Highway 169 North to the 49th Avenue North exit and turn right. Turn left on to Independence Avenue North. Thursday, September 15 Network Connections Networking Group | link 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: $75/year. Pre-registration required. Network Connections meets twice a month (the first Friday and third Thursday of each month at the TwinWest office), but practices referral exchanges each and every day.

Thursday, September 15 Power Partners Networking | link 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: $75/year. Pre-registration required. Power Partners is a networking program that helps members exchange business leads and build relationships. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. TwinWest is on the right. Tuesday, September 20 TwinWest Prospective Member Forum: Your Questions Answered | link 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: No cost to attend. TwinWest invites you to a one-hour forum to learn how to grow your network and improve the business climate through your local chamber of commerce. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road.

To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. TwinWest is on the right.

TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

Directions—August/September 2011

...August/September Calendar Wednesday, September 21 Government Affairs Committee Meeting | link 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Host tel. (763) 450-2220 Investment: No cost to attend. Discuss public policy issues impacting the business community. All members are welcome to participate. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane, just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. TwinWest is on the right. Wednesday, September 21 Over the Top Overtime at High Five | link 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. High Five, Excelsior Tech Center, 750 2nd Street NE, Hopkins Host tel. (952) 746-0355 Investment: No cost to attend. Attend this "Touchdown TwinWest" Overtime and enjoy football fare, a hosted bar, party favors, and tailgate tunes! Proceeds from a silent auction benefit the TwinWest Foundation. To get there: Take 169 to MN-7 East. Turn right on Blake Road and then right on 2nd Street. High Five is on the left in the Excelsior Tech Center.

Wednesday, September 28 Business Showcase at Alerus Financial | link 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Alerus Financial 10900 Wayzata Boulevard, Suite 130 Minnetonka Host tel. (763) 544-0006 Investment: No cost to attend, includes light lunch. Network with area business leaders, enjoy a complimentary light lunch, and learn about TwinWest member Alerus Financial. A complimentary light lunch will be available. To get there: Take 394 to Hopkins Crossroad. Turn right on Hopkins Crossroad and then right on the north frontage road/Wayzata Boulevard. Alerus is in the Crescent Ridge II building.

Register for Events To register for any TwinWest event: Online | www.twinwest.com/events E-mail | info@twinwest.com Call | (763) 450-2220

Post Your Events Post your events for free on TwinWest’s online member and community event calendar. Link | www.twinwest.com/yourevent

Plan Ahead Mark your calendar: Annual Celebration is October 13! Join TwinWest in celebrating our business successes from this past year. In addition, we will recognize our top TwinWest supporters, pass the gavel to our new Board chair and Foundation Board chair, and show our appreciation to all our committee and task force members who contributed to this year’s achievements. Event Details: 2011 Annual Celebration Thursday, October 13, 2011 11:30—1:00 p.m. Sheraton Minneapolis West Interested in sponsorship? Contact Victoria Marley at (763) 450-2227 or victoria@twinwest.com.

TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

Directions—August/September 2011

Board & Leadership TwinWest Board of Directors Executive Committee Dannette Coleman, Medica, Chair Greg Korstad, Larkin Hoffman Attorneys, Chair-elect Nathan Agre, Blanski Peter Kronlage & Zoch, P.A. CPAs, Treasurer Steve Wise, Cass Screw Machine Products, Past Chair Bruce Nustad, TwinWest, President Directors Becky Bakken, Citizens Independent Bank Mike Corbin, General Mills Tom Harmening, City of St. Louis Park Rick Kaufman, Owl Bookkeeping and CFO Services Michael Lehmann, Ferguson Enterprises Ron Leino, Liberty Carton, Co., an LDI Company Luke Litteken, CenterPoint Energy Samantha Metcalf, LarsonAllen LLP Pamela Muldoon, Next Stage Business/ Next Stage Business Radio Tim Raymond, Voyager Bank Matt Schadow, AmeriStar Agency, Inc. Bob Schlichte, Grand Casino Mille Lacs & Hinckley Mike Sowada, VISI Jon Thompson, Opportunity Partners Beth Ulrich, Fuzzy Duck Design

Board News

TwinWest Board member Annette Hruby recently announced her resignation from the Board due to an employment change. The Board of Directors will appoint a new Board member to replace Hrubyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seat per the organizational bylaws.

TwinWest Chamber of Commerce 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170 Plymouth, MN 55441 Phone | (763) 450-2220 Fax | (763) 450-2221 Link | www.twinwest.com

TwinWest thanks Hruby for her service to the business community through Board leadership. In addition to her many contributions, Hruby started Member Talk: For Members, By Members two years ago as a monthly program to facilitate conversations between business leaders. We wish Hruby the best in her new career.

TwinWest Staff Bruce Nustad, President Judy Johnson, Government Affairs Director Jacqui Sauter, Regional Sales Director Chris Kirwan, Member & Community Engagement Director

TwinWest Partners Loretta Kenney-Lillejord, Owl Bookkeeping & CFO Services, Accounting Victoria Marley, Signature Events Representative

TwinWest Directions magazine is published electronically ten times a year by the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth, MN 55441, phone (763) 450-2220. Annual subscription rate of $40 is included in a TwinWest membership investment. TwinWest serves the communities of Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center, Crystal, Golden Valley, Hopkins, Medicine Lake, Minnetonka, New Hope, Plymouth, St. Louis Park, and the surrounding areas.

TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

Directionsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;August/September 2011