Aug. Sept. 2010 by TwinWest Chamber of Commerce

August/September 2010

New chair tees off to drive business Feature Story page 9

Dannette Coleman, Medica, incoming Board Chair

Network in a HOLE new way at the Golf Classic page 7 Mark your calendars: Gubernatorial Debate on August 26, 2010 page 8 Event and program details

page 10

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table of text contents

from the president’s desk

6 MEMBER PROFILE 7 F EATURED EVENT

BusinessConnection: A new resource for local business

General Mills - A member in the news

Network in a HOLE new way at the Golf Classic

8 GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

ew rights to participate in political N independent expenditures Mark Your Calendars: Gubernatorial Debate on August 26, 2010

9 VENTS & 10 EPROGRAM DETAILS FEATURE STORY

New chair tees off to drive business

Make plans to attend TwinWest’s events in August and September, including: Member Orientation; Member Talk; Network Connections Networking; Power Partners Networking; Perspective Member Forum; Legislative Breakfast; Business Showcase; Overtime; Gubernatorial Debate; 25th Annual Golf Classic, etc.

12 CHAMBER NEWS MEMBERS - NEW & 14 RENEWING

Member Orientation photos

TwinWest encourages all of our members to conduct business with one another

Businesses and entrepreneurs in the western suburbs now have a single entry point to become connected with private and public resources to solve everyday business problems. Recently launched BusinessConnection, a new business assistance and referral network, is a project of Grow Minnesota!, a subsidiary of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce.   The TwinWest Chamber of Commerce, along with other chambers across the state, have adopted BusinessConnection as an important resource for organizations looking to grow or overcome issues hindering growth.   Based on conversations and discussions with organizations in our area, we know that now more than ever we need to provide organized answers to business issues. Fortunately, Minnesota has many businessassistance resources available to solve most problems. BusinessConnection allows us to aggregate answers to those problems and better understand current issues.   If BusinessConnection helps just a handful of businesses grow by one job - a job that contributes to the tax base and provides a sense of value to the jobholder - we at TwinWest will consider the program a great success. I suspect that BusinessConnection will help many more that just a handful.   In six years of operation, Grow Minnesota! has solved more than 500 separate problems for individual companies across the state. These requests for help range from acquiring specific permits to looking for a raw material supplier for a manufacturing process and potential building searches. The number of these issues and range of assistance provided were the impetus for creating BusinessConnection.   BusinessConnection is a joint project of Grow Minnesota! and the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). Grow Minnesota! worked closely with DEED, as well as other public and private economic development organizations, to shape BusinessConnection as a well publicized, easy to access service designed to assist businesses statewide.   Locally, The Business Bank funds TwinWest’s participation in Grow Minnesota! and BusinessConnection.   Grants from the McKnight Foundation to Grow Minnesota! and DEED are covering the start-up and initial operating costs of BusinessConnection. The use of the database and network will be monitored carefully to help determine the program’s permanent role as part of Grow Minnesota!. If your organization is facing an issue that impedes its growth, or if you are simply looking for assistance for your business, I invite you to visit BusinessConnection at www.mnbizconnect.com or call (888)MINN-BIZ.

Sincerely,

Bruce Nustad president

Setting the Standard. Leading the Way.™ 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170 Plymouth, MN 55441 Phone: (763) 450-2220 • Fax: (763) 450-2221 www.twinwest.com

TwinWest Directions (USPS 060870) is published 10 times per year by the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth, MN 55441. Phone: (763) 4502220. Periodicals Postage Paid, at Hopkins, MN and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to TwinWest Directions, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth, MN 55441. Annual subscription rate of $40 is included in membership investment. The TwinWest Chamber of Commerce serves the communities of: Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center, Crystal, Golden Valley, Hopkins, Medicine Lake, Minnetonka, New Hope, Plymouth, St. Louis Park, and the surrounding region.

TwinWest Directions

TWINWEST BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Steve Wise, Cass Screw Machine Products, Chair of the Board Mark Carlson, Minnesota Mailing Solutions, Past Chair of the Board Dannette Coleman, Medica, Chair-elect of the Board Sarah Toepke, Treasurer Bruce Nustad, TwinWest Chamber of Commerce, President DIRECTORS Nathan Agre, Blanski Peter Kronlage & Zoch, P.A. CPAs Gary Aiken, Investors Capital Corporation Jerry Archambeau, Grand Casino Mille Lacs & Hinckley Becky Bakken, Citizens Independent Bank Daniel Duffy, Daniel K. Duffy Architects, Inc. Tom Harmening, City of St. Louis Park Annette Hruby, Costco - St. Louis Park Rick Kaufman, Cox Insurance Associates Greg Korstad, Larkin Hoffman Attorneys Michael Lehmann, Ferguson Enterprises, Inc. Pamela Muldoon, Next Stage Business Tim Raymond, Voyager Bank – Minnetonka Jim Snoxell, Henningson & Snoxell, Ltd. Mike Sowada, VISI Incorporated Jon Thompson, Opportunity Partners Beth Ulrich, Fuzzy Duck Design

TwinWest Staff Bruce Nustad, President Judy Johnson, Director of Government Affairs Jacqui Sauter, Regional Sales Director Sara Hopkins, Office Manager Chris Kirwan, Director of Member & Community Engagement Dan Thorp, Administrative Assistant Loretta Kenney-Lillejord, Owl Bookkeeping & CFO Services, Accounting Victoria Marley, Signature Events Representative Stacy Slygh, C.E.L., Communications

ECM Publishers, Inc. 12180 County Road 11 Burnsville, MN 55337 Phone: (952) 846-2040 Fax: (952) 846-2044 Ginny Lee, Project Manager & Advertising Director Jeff Remme, Director of Production & Graphic Design Mariah Hendrickson, Advertising Sales

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Proceeds are tax deductible and help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families through the programs and services of Arc Greater Twin Cities. Find out more: arcgreatertwincities.org Arc is a proud member of the Twin West Chamber of Commerce

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member profile

General Mills - A member in the news Member name: Tess Hohman, Manager of Corporate Communications Business name: General Mills In business since: We trace our roots back to 1866, but mark our incorporation as General Mills in 1928 TwinWest member since: 1982 Number of employees: We are a global company with 30,000 employees worldwide Location: Headquarters in Golden Valley What is your main service/product? As one of the world’s leading food companies, General Mills operates in more than 100 countries and markets more than 100 consumer brands, including Cheerios, Häagen-Dazs, Nature Valley, Betty Crocker, Pillsbury, Green Giant, Old El Paso, Progresso, Cascadian Farm, Muir Glen and more. General Mills had fiscal 2009 global net sales of US $15.9 billion, including the company’s $1.2 billion proportionate share of joint venture net sales.

What’s your company’s most significant recent accomplishment? Our mission at General Mills is Nourishing Lives. To truly live that mission means going far beyond achieving financial success. It includes Nourishing Communities around the world by volunteering and giving to worthwhile causes, and Nourishing the Future by helping to preserve and protect the environment for generations to come. We’re proud of the progress we’ve made in all of these areas – and we believe our track record over the decades speaks louder than words. Visit www.GeneralMills.com to read our full 2010 Corporate Social Responsibility report. Why does your business belong to the TwinWest Chamber? TwinWest represents the broad interests of all its members, large and small, both locally and at the State Capitol. We value and respect the good work the Chamber does not only to advocate business needs, but also advocates to strengthen the communities in which it

serves. Additionally, the Chamber’s varied agenda of business and community events offers employees opportunities to learn about state and local issues and to connect with other key leaders.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Tess Hohman tess.hohman@generalmills. com 1 General Mills Boulevard Golden Valley, MN 55426 (763) 764-7600 www.generalmills.com

Each month TwinWest profiles a long standing member and recognizes their sustained commitment to our region’s business climate. We greatly value their ongoing presence in our membership.

Representing Only Management in Labor and Employment Law……for over 23 Years!

• Defending against discrimination/harassment/whistleblower claims/etc. • Pursuing non-compete/unfair competition claims • Representing management in union organizing/collective bargaining/grievance arbitration • Training/Counseling/Audit Litigation/Immigration • EEOC/MDHR/DOL/OSHA/OFCCP • ADA/Title VII/FLSA/ADEA/FMLA/ERISA

In sum, we handle every kind of workplace issue involving management and employees. For free publications/model handbooks/complementary newsletters on cutting edge workplace developments/timely seminars/flat fee consultations

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Wessels_DIR7_MH 1 TwinWest Directions

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featured event

Network in a HOLE new way at the Golf Classic Join us for the 25th Annual TwinWest Golf Classic! Savvy business people know one of the best ways to cultivate contacts is on the golf course. Each year TwinWest presents the best professional networking opportunity you’ll find on the greens. Join us for great golfing, food, contests, prizes and fun. Register a full foursome or register individually to meet three new people!

Thank You To Our 2010 Sponsors! T itle S ponsor

A wards

EVENT DETAILS Monday, August 9, 2010 11:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Golden Valley Golf & Country Club 7001 Golden Valley Road Golden Valley, MN 55427

B ottled W ater

C orporate S ponsors

B everage C arts

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11:30 a.m. Registration & lunch 1:00 p.m. Shotgun start 6:00 p.m. Awards reception

P utting G reen

Investment: $185 + tax per golfer or $720 + tax per foursome.

P utting G reens

S ignage

Quest Development, Inc.

H ole S ponsors

Includes lunch, golf with cart, and awards reception with hors d’oeuvres. There will also be giveaways and the chance to win cash prizes, an iPad, golf equipment and more!

Anchor Bank Center National Bank CenturyLink - Golden Valley Citizens Independent Bank Costco Golden Care USA

Not a golfer but still want to join the fun? Join us for lunch ($20) or the awards reception ($40) only.

Golden Valley Heating & Air Homewood Suites Kern, DeWenter, Viere, Ltd. Minnesota School of Business Nextera Communications Pearl Vision

Rasmussen College Shred-N-Go TDS Venture Bank Wellington Management Xcel Energy

Experience St. Louis Park Public Schools! St. Louis Park Public Schools offers a world of opportunity to all students.

St. Louis Park Offers: • Excellent teachers and staff. • 98% of district parents feel their children are taught by highly trained teachers who care about them. • A commitment to ensure that all students have access to equal, high-quality educational opportunities. • A wide array of educational programs and services under an international umbrella aimed at providing students with learning experiences that will enable them to succeed in a global marketplace. • Neighborhood schools with individual attention. • The International Baccalaureate (IB) program for students from pre-school through high school. IB is an internationally recognized method for teaching that uses inquiry, local and international focus and collaboration throughout the school day and includes weekly world language instruction for all students. • The Park Spanish Immersion (PSI) School, a K-5 elementary program provides students a high-quality, full Spanish immersion education with an international focus and global perspective. There is an application and lottery process to attend PSI.

Experience what sets the St. Louis Park Schools apart from the rest! For more information about what our schools have to offer, visit us at

www.slpschools.org

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7/1/10 2010 9:55 AM7 August/September

government text affairs

New rights to participate in political independent expenditures and Governor Pawlenty on May 27, 2010 signed Laws of Minnesota 2010, Chapter 397 which repealed the prohibition on corporate independent expenditures but required registration and reporting for entities making such expenditures. The results of Minnesota’s 2010 elections will have tremendous consequences for the business community, for employees and families, and for Minnesota. The Governor and legislators elected this November will: • Close a nearly $6 billion state budget deficit either with tax increases on employers or spending restraint and reform.

On January 21, 2010, the United States Supreme Court overturned 20 years of precedent, holding that laws (including state laws) prohibiting a corporation from using its funds to independently advocate for the election or defeat of a political candidate are an unconstitutional restraint on free speech. The holdings in Citizens United v. FEC have significant ramifications for corporations in Minnesota. While 24 states previously allowed this type of effort, the U.S. Supreme Court decision has now granted those same rights in the 26 states that prohibited corporate independent campaign expenditures. Labor unions have always been able to participate directly in Minnesota elections, but Minnesota’s restrictive campaign finance laws have kept job providers at a distinct disadvantage. This past spring, the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court seeking clarification that Minnesota corporations could legally make independent contributions to political campaigns. The Chamber’s lawsuit sought to clarify that Minnesota’s ban on corporate independent expenditures was unconstitutional, and therefore unenforceable. It also sought to clarify that an “indirect contribution” could not be construed as an independent expenditure, and as such is permissible by a corporation. On May 7, 2010, Federal District Court ruled that Minnesota’s law prohibiting corporate independent expenditures, like the federal law, was an unconstitutional restraint on free speech. The court permanently enjoined all Minnesota county attorneys from prosecuting corporations for this type of protected, First Amendment speech. Efforts to change Minnesota Law during the 2010 Legislative Session were also undertaken. Subsequently, the Minnesota Legislature passed

TwinWest Directions

• Redraw legislative and congressional districts shaping Minnesota politics and policy for 10 years. • Support or stifle education reform, tax and spending reform, environmental and transportation policies, and much more.

• Make appointments that impact Minnesota’s business climate and your company’s bottom line. With this newfound ability for corporations to participate in the upcoming elections, new political funds are being formed. MN Forward, for one, represents this new type of effort. MN Forward is an independent expenditure political committee supported by Minnesota job providers of all sizes from across the state. Its goal is to elect candidates from both parties who support the MN Forward agenda to create jobs and grow Minnesota’s economy. MN Forward is raising money from Minnesota job providers to conduct a positive, forwardlooking campaign focused on creating jobs and providing economic opportunity. The campaign will focus strictly on issues related to job creation, global competitiveness, education reform and long-term economic growth in Minnesota. For more information on this topic or to learn more about MN Forward, contact the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce at (763) 450-2220 or email info@twinwest.com.

Mark Your Calendars: Gubernatorial Debate on August 26, 2010

The TwinWest Chamber of Commerce is proud to host this high profile gubernatorial debate in the race to succeed Governor Tim Pawlenty. The August 26 debate is expected to draw more than 250 business and community leaders, and members of the media. With so much at stake for the future of Minnesota, the 2010 governor’s race will be extremely important in electing the state’s next chief executive officer. Minnesota faces a projected $6 billion deficit for the 2011 – 2012 biennium. The business community has a strong vested interest in who will govern Minnesota and how the next governor will set forward a pro-business, pro-jobs, and economic growth-focused agenda. Candidates include: DFL Party: Margaret Anderson Kelliher, Mark Dayton, and Matt Entenza (All have been invited, but only one will be participating after the August 10 Primary Election) Independence Party: Tom Horner Republican Party: Tom Emmer Event Details: 2010 TwinWest Gubernatorial Debate Thursday, August 26 General Mills, Golden Valley 7:15 a.m. – Registration opens 7:30 a.m. – Breakfast, meet & greet with the gubernatorial candidates 8:00 - 9:15 a.m. - Candidate forum in the General Mills auditorium Investment: members and non-members: $20 per ticket; $150 for 10 tickets. Online payment available. Advance registration is highly recommended. To register, go to www.twinwest.com/debate or contact Judy Johnson, director of goverment affairs, at (763) 450-2226 or judy@twinwest.com. Thank you to our Gubernatorial Debate event sponsors: Lockridge Grindal Nauen P.L.L.P. (premier); General Mills (event); Medica (silver); Center National Bank and Xcel Energy (bronze).

feature story

New chair tees off to drive business In her role as chair of the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors beginning October 1, Dannette Coleman refuses to sit and watch the action from the sidelines. Coleman plans to become immediately engaged in carrying on the strength and success that she has seen at TwinWest. As a business executive, mother of three, and self-proclaimed golf addict, Coleman brings a strong business advocacy background and an inspirational, diplomatic style to lead TwinWest in 2010-2011. Coleman, a vice president of public policy and government relations at Medica, is about to begin her 18th year with the healthcare company. She has held several different positions at Medica, and believes that her extensive experience within the organization has prepared her for current Medica role. “I really was able to learn about the business from the bottom up,” said Coleman. Medica, first founded in 1975, provides health coverage to 1.6 million member subscribers and was the first open-access health plan in the state of Minnesota. Medica became an independent health plan in 2001. Coleman is intimately familiar with Minnesota businesses and the threats and opportunities they face today. Within the context of severe budget problems at the state level and challenges for local government, Coleman believes in the importance of educating legislators and policy makers on the bottom line impact of policy decisions on businesses and employers. “The weight of the state deficit can be stifling for small businesses,” said Coleman. “At TwinWest, we need to continue to help find ways for businesses to grow during difficult economic times.” Coleman first became involved with TwinWest when she was invited to a Government Affairs Committee meeting. “I immediately felt very comfortable and welcomed,” said Coleman. “I was so impressed with the knowledge, commitment and resources of people around the table who took the time to get involved.” Two years after becoming a member of TwinWest, Coleman accepted the position as chair of the Government Affairs Committee. It is clear Coleman feels a strong connection with TwinWest members and embraces the Chamber’s mission. While discussing her involvement in TwinWest and how it has influenced her, Coleman adamantly expressed appreciation and gratitude for the organization. “I have received so much more than I could have ever imagined, both through knowledge and relationships,” said Coleman. “Leading the Board will give me more opportunities to give back to the business

community and help others as they have helped me.” Coleman is very thankful for those that have led TwinWest before her and the high standards that have been set for the Chamber as a representative of the business community. “The staff is excellent,” said Coleman. “Bruce, Chris, Dan, Jacqui, Judy and Sara all provide great service and leadership at the Chamber and in our communities.”

When it comes to prospective members who are interested in becoming involved in the business community through TwinWest, Coleman recommends first finding out where the interest lies. “TwinWest offers a variety of opportunities for members,” said Coleman. “Some members may not have as much time to give, but there are still numerous ways to get connected and stay involved with TwinWest throughout the year.” If you have any interest or questions about involvement, Coleman recommends reaching out to a Board or committee member to introduce yourself. “It’s such an inviting community,” she said. “The leadership team is very welcoming and willing to help both current and prospective members.”

According to Coleman, one of her top priorities for the upcoming year at TwinWest is to protect job creators by communicating how government and community decisions impact our lives. Coleman also plans to focus on helping members connect with one another. “TwinWest is a great way for people to give expertise and pass it on from one business owner to another,” said Coleman. “No business problem is unique. There is at least one other TwinWest member who has experienced the same problem and is willing to offer advice, strategies, or solutions.”

Despite the on-going economic challenges, Coleman’s outlook for the year is positive and inspiring. “It was very humbling to be asked to take the Board leadership position, but I do not feel like I’m doing it by myself,” said Coleman. “As a collection of business leaders focused on job growth, we will be working as a team with a much better opportunity for results than if we were trying to accomplish things individually.” With her dedicated work ethic, extensive experience, and focus on teamwork, Coleman is determined to uphold TwinWest’s excellent reputation and take the lead producing successful results.

August/September 2010

event & program details Be sure to check your mail starting in mid-August for your directory verification form! This form reflects the information that we have on file for your company; timely updating of this information ensures that we have the most current information for the 2011 TwinWest Membership Directory. Don’t want to wait? Update your information anytime by logging into your member account at www.twinwest.com.

August/September 2010 August 4

Member Orientation 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. Hampton Inn 10420 Wayzata Boulevard, Minnetonka (952) 541-1094 No cost to attend.

ROI: Learn how to make the most of your investment and get a jump start on networking. To get there: From 394, exit on Hopkins Crossroad and go north. a right on Wayzata Boulevard.

Network Connections Networking Group 8:30 - 10:00 a.m. Location Varies (763) 450-2220 Investment: $75/year

4/18

ROI: Connect with other business professionals using innovative cutting-edge programs, tools and technologies to produce a positive networking outcome. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left at Revere Lane. Turn right onto the frontage road. Chamber is on the right.

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

ROI: Get involved in the St. Louis Park business community and hear updates from the city and schools. To get there: Take Highway 100 to Highway 7. Turn left onto Highway 7. Turn right onto Belt Line Boulevard.

5/19 5

Power Partners Networking 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. TwinWest Chamber office 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth (763) 450-2220 Investment: $75/year

Connect with success at TwinWest’s events and programs—your links to influential people, innovative ideas, and exclusive opportunities.

ROI: Brainstorm with other Chamber members about issues affecting your business while expanding your professional network. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left at Revere Lane. Turn right onto the frontage road. Chamber is on the right.

25th Annual TwinWest Golf Classic 11:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Golden Valley Golf & Country Club 7001 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley (763)450-2220 11:30 a.m. Registration & lunch 1:00 p.m. Shotgun start 6:00 p.m. Awards reception

Investment: $185 + tax per golfer or $720 + tax per foursome. $40 + tax for awards hors d’oeuvres reception only. ROI: Build relationships and create new business connections while you enjoy an afternoon on the greens. To get there: From 394, exit on Highway 169 north. Go north on to Highway 55. Turn left onto Winnekta Avenue and turn right on Golden Valley Road. 1

TwinWest Directions

Prospective Member Forum 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. TwinWest Chamber office 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth (763) 450-2220 No cost to attend.

ROI: Join other members for this event featuring a 25-minute overview of the opportunities with TwinWest followed by a half hour open discussion. Current members are welcome when accompanied by a prospective member. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left at Revere Lane. Turn right onto the frontage road. Chamber is on the right.

Government Affairs Committee Meeting 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. TwinWest Chamber office 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth (763) 450-2220 No cost to attend.

ROI: Discuss issues that impact the business community and share policy recommendations to the TwinWest Board of Directors. All members are welcome to participate in this Committee. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left at Revere Lane. Turn right onto the frontage road. Chamber is on the right.

ROI: Exchange leads with a group of businesses that meets twice monthly. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left at Revere Lane. Turn right onto the frontage road. Chamber is on the right.

Member Talk: Effective E-mail Marketing 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. TwinWest Chamber office 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth (763) 450-2220 No cost to attend.

Overtime 4:30 – 6:30 p.m Humana MarketPOINT 227 Willow Bend, Suite 227, Crystal (763) 533-666 No cost to attend.

ROI: Connect with success with TwinWest. Meet other members, exchange ideas and sales leads, and build relationships. To get there: Go north on Highway 169 to Bass Lake Road. Go east on Bass Lake Road to Willow Bend. Take a right at Willow Bend. Humana is in the Crystal Shopping Center.

Crystal/New Hope Business Council 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Liberty Diversified International 5600 North Highway 169, New Hope (763) 536-6600 No cost to attend.

ROI: Get involved in the local business community and hear updates from cities and schools. To get there: Take 169 to the 49th Avenue N exit and turn right. Turn left onto Independence Avenue N.

The Business Panel: Smart Hiring Post-Downturn 3:00 - 4:30 p.m. TwinWest Chamber office 10700 Old County Road 15, Plymouth (763) 450-2220 No cost to attend. ROI: Learn about key hiring considerations as your business emerges from the economic downturn. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left on Revere Lane. Turn right onto the frontage road. Chamber is on the right.

Afternoon Networking with the Wayzata Chamber 4:30-6:30 p.m The Foursome 3570 Vicksburg Lane, Suite 100, Plymouth (763) 473-4667 No cost to attend.

ROI: Connect with success with TwinWest. Meet other members, exchange ideas and sales leads, and build relationships. To get there: Go west on Highway 55 and take a right on Vicksburg Lane.

Business Showcase 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m TwinWest Chamber of Commerce featuring members 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth (763) 450-2220 No cost to attend.

ROI: Connect with success with TwinWest. Meet other members, exchange ideas and sales leads, and build relationships. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left at Revere Lane. Turn right onto the frontage road. The Chamber is on the right.

Gubernatorial Debate 7:15 – 9:15 a.m. General Mills 1 General Mills Boulevard, Golden Valley (763) 764-7600 Investment: members and non-members: $20 per ticket; $150 for 10 tickets

ROI: Join TwinWest as we host this high profile gubernatorial debate in the race to succeed Governor Tim Pawlenty. To get there: From Highway 100, go west on Highway 55. Take a left at General Mills Boulevard.

September 1

Member Orientation 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. Hampton Inn 10420 Wayzata Boulevard, Minnetonka (952) 541-1094 No cost to attend.

ROI: Learn how to make the most of your investment and get a jump start on networking. To get there: From 394, exit on Hopkins Crossroad and go north. a right on Wayzata Boulevard. Continued on page 12

CELEBRATING 35 YEARS!

Peg’s Countryside Café & Catering In 1975 when Peg’s Countryside Café opened its doors, “Saturday Night Live” made its debut and “The Godfather” took home an Oscar. 1995 TwinWest Entrepreneur of the Year Peggy Rasmussen may not be as funny as “SNL” or as Italian as the Corleones, but she’s proud to have been a part of this community for the past three and a half decades. We are celebrating our milestone anniversary this summer and fall with all sorts of delicious menu items, customer-appreciation events and extra-special goings on, and we hope you’ll join us. Stop in anytime to see what we’ve got up our 35-year-old sleeves, including our brand-new catering facility. (Don’t forget to ask about our TwinWest member discount on catering all season long.)

CAFÉ: (763) 478-6868 CATERING: (763) 478-2101 PegsCountrysideCafe.com

1455 County Rd. 101 N., Plymouth MN 55447 • 763-476-2000 • www.msbcollege.edu

Are you looking to fill your next position with a qualified candidate? Then contact Globe University/Minnesota School of Business. Our mission is to connect the right person with the right skills to the right job. Fully accredited Master, Bachelor, Associate and Diploma programs. Founded in 1877

Contact Marie Tomala 763-398-5971 or mtomala@msbcollege.edu MNSCHOOL_DIR7_MH 1

6/28/10 12:09 PM

chamber news August/September 2010 September

Network Connections Networking Group

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8:30 - 10:00 a.m. Location varies (763) 450-2220 Investment: $75/year ROI: Connect with other business professionals using innovative cutting-edge programs, tools and technologies to produce a positive networking outcome. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left at Revere Lane. Turn right onto the frontage road. Chamber is on the right.

Continued from page 10

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

Power Partners 2/16 Networking 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. TwinWest Chamber office 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth (763) 450-2220 Investment: $75/year ROI: Exchange leads with a group of businesses that meets twice monthly. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left at Revere Lane. Turn right onto the frontage road. Chamber is on the right.

Government Affairs Committee Meeting 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. TwinWest Chamber office 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth (763) 450-2220 No cost to attend.

ROI: Brainstorm with other Chamber members about issues affecting your business while expanding your professional network.

ROI: Discuss issues that impact the business community and share policy recommendations to the TwinWest Board of Directors. All members are welcome to participate in this Committee.

To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left at Revere Lane. Turn right onto the frontage road. Chamber is on the right.

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

ROI: Get involved in the St. Louis Park business community and hear updates from the city and schools.

Member Talk: For Members, By Members 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. TwinWest Chamber office 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth (763) 450-2220 No cost to attend.

Legislative Breakfast 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Doubletree Hotel Minneapolis Park Place 1500 Park Place Boulevard, St. Louis Park (952) 542-8600 Investment: $30/members; $40/nonmembers

ROI: Hear compelling, well-know speakers and state legislators with more than 125 business leaders across the Twin Cities. To get there: From I-394, take Park Place/Xenia exit. Travel south on Park Place and turn right on 16th Street.

Emerging Leaders on the Fast Track Luncheon 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Comfort Inn – Plymouth 3000 Harbor Lane, Plymouth (763) 559-1222 Investment: $25/members; $35/nonmembers ROI: Network with area emerging leaders and hear an engaging, relevant presentation.

To get there: From I-494, take Highway 55 West exit. Turn right on Fernbrook Lane and a right on Harbor Lane.

Member Orientation Photos

Overtime 4:30-7:30 p.m High Five Excelsior Tech Center, 750 2nd Street NE, Hopkins (952) 746-035 No cost to attend.

ROI: Attend this “Touchdown TwinWest” Overtime, sponsored by High Five, The Beard Group, and Peg’s Countryside Café & Catering. Enjoy football fare, a hosted bar, party favors, and tailgate tunes. Proceeds benefit the TwinWest Foundation. To get there: From Highway 169 going south, exit east on to Excelsior Boulevard. Take a left at Jackson Avenue North and turn right at 2nd Street Northeast.

Crystal/New Hope Business Council 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Liberty Diversified International 5600 North Highway 169, New Hope (763) 536-6600 No cost to attend.

ROI: Get involved in the local business community and hear updates from cities and schools. To get there: Take 169 to the 49th Avenue N exit and turn right. Turn left onto Independence Avenue N1

Prospective Member Forum 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. TwinWest Chamber office 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth (763) 450-2220 No cost to attend.

May Member Orientation. Left to Right: Jim Krogh - Jim Krogh; Janet Lindbo - Homes Within Reach; Doris Gruis - Homes Within Reach; Kristina Anderson - Homes Within Reach; Pat Lawrance Signcrafters; Mike Lawrance - Signcrafters

June Member Orientation. Left to Right: Marc Keepman - KLC Financial; Cheri Follese - Golden Valley Heating & Air; Erin Trapp - Humana MarketPOINT; Jonnie Hartford - KLC Financial

TwinWest Directions

May Member Orientation. Left to Right: Jeremy Day - Grainger Industrial Supply; Dr. Libby Larson - Touch of Health Wellness Center; Jan Navratil - RMC Warehousing Solutions; Amanda Hafics - RMC Warehousing Solutions; Mike Schleif - MDS Resources; Kerry Edwards - University of Minnesota Athletics

June Member Orientation. Left to Right: Aaron Karasov - JFCS; Billie Henry - Midwest Staffing; Marla Moore - Pro Staff; Becky Sundberg - Foliage Design Systems; Manuel Santana - Speedpro; Bryan Pearson - Midwest Staffing

To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left at Revere Lane. Turn right onto the frontage road. Chamber is on the right.

Business Education Partnership Programming The next Business Education Partnership program is “Teacher for a Day” with the Robbinsdale Area School District. This year’s event will focus primarily on the kindergarten classroom, but will also accommodate other age interests, as requested. This program is scheduled to take place September 27 through September 30, 2010. If you’re interested in connecting with the Robbinsdale Area School District through this program, please contact Sara Hopkins at (763) 450-2224 or sara@twinwest.com for more details.

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new & renewing members NEW MEMBERS

Welcome New Members! New members are printed in each issue of Directions. Following is a list of businesses or individuals who have invested in the greater community by joining the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce. Please support these businesses when making purchases and business decisions.

Our Membership Directory, listing all Chamber members in alphabetical order, by category, and by individual representatives, is published each year. For the most up-to-date information, you can use our searchable online member directory at www.twinwest. com. If you are a current member, you may update your records online. Want to become a member? Call (763) 450-2220. Bever Landscaping 23950 Lake Boulevard North Forest Lake, MN 55025 Miki Byers LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS BizzyWeb 12299 Champlin Drive Suite 27 Champlin, MN 55316 Dave Meyer WEB PAGE DESIGN Ditto & Co. 5775 Wayzata Boulevard Suite 700 St. Louis Park, MN 55416 Gretchen Ditto CONSULTANTS-BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL Foliage Design Systems 3555 182nd Avenue NW Anoka, MN 55303 Becky Sundberg INTERIOR DESIGN Golden Valley Heating and Air 5182 West Broadway Crystal, MN 55429 Cheri Follese HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING Grainger Industrial Supply 2450 Annapolis Lane Plymouth, MN 55441 Jeremy Day DISTRIBUTORS WHOLESALERS Guncheon Financial, LLC 12250 48th Avenue North Plymouth, MN 55442 Kelly Guncheon FINANCIAL SERVICES INSURANCE Invisik Corporation 7240 Grand Avenue South Richfield, MN 55423 COMPUTERS-CONSULTING SERVICES COMPUTERS-SALES, SERVICE & INSTALLATION Juut Salonspa 1125 East Wayzata Boulevard Wayzata, MN 55391 Debra Valentini BEAUTY SALONS & SPA SERVICES

TwinWest Directions

Lawrence Parkhurst, P.A. 1055 East Wayzata Boulevard Suite 305 Wayzata, MN 55391 Lawrence Parkhurst ACCOUNTING & BOOKKEEPING

Speedpro NW Minneapolis 14000 25th Avenue North Suite100 Plymouth, MN 55447 Manuel Santana SIGNS & BANNERS

Lockridge Grindal Nauen P.L.L.P. 100 Washington Avenue South Suite 2200 Minneapolis , MN 55401 Sherri Juell ATTORNEYS

Virginia Antony, Realtor - Edina Realty 4130 Wild Meadows Drive Medina, MN 55340 Virginia Antony REAL ESTATE-RESIDENTIAL

Midwest Asphalt Corporation 5929 Baker Road Minnetonka, MN 55345 Linda Charles CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES

Waddell & Reed, Inc. 9800 Shelard Parkway Suite 120 Plymouth, MN 55441 Chris McLeod FINANCIAL ADVISORS FINANCIAL SERVICES

Midwest Staffing 9100 85th Avenue North Brooklyn Park, MN 55445 EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES & COUNSELING NBS Technologies 10925 Bren Road East Hopkins, MN 55343 Bruce LaCoe MANUFACTURERS Pro Staff 10700 Old County Road 15 Suite 180 Plymouth, MN 55441 Marla Moore EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES & COUNSELING Prudential Financial 600 South Highway 169 Suite 1000 St. Louis Park , MN 55426 Richard Vegte FINANCIAL SERVICES INSURANCE RMC Project Management 10955 Bren Road East Minnetonka, MN 55343 Kara Johnson CONSULTANTS-BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL RMC West Metro Training Center 10955 Bren Road East Minnetonka, MN 55343 Jan Navratil CONSULTANTS-BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL Senator Terri Bonoff 325 Capitol Building 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55155 Terri Bonoff GOVERNMENT Short Elliott Hendrickson Inc. 10901 Red Circle Drive Suite 300 Minnetonka, MN 55343 Jeff Rhoda ENGINEERS Softech Solutions LLC 14096 Forest Lane Apple Valley, MN 55124 Jill Blyth CONSULTANTS-BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL

RENEWING MEMBERS

Congratulations to the following members who have recently celebrated their membership anniversaries. These members are part of a continued commitment to our communities through their investment in the TwinWest Chamber.

25+ Years Berg Law Offices, P.A. Park Nicollet Clinic Schechter Dokken Kanter CPAs Sheraton Hotel Minneapolis West St. Louis Park, City of Waste Management Wayzata Public Schools Youngstedt’s Goodyear

21-24 Years Linsk Flowers Moquist Thorvilson Kaufmann Kennedy & Pieper LLC

16-20 Years Hopkins Hair House Partnership Resources, Inc.

11-15 Years The Beard Group Beltrand, Mark Black Cat Promotional Products, Inc. Coverall of the Twin Cities, Inc. Crossroads Delicatessen Dunwoody College Grant Thornton LLP Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners Payroll Control Systems Randy’s Environmental Services

5-10 Years ABRA Auto Body & Glass - New Hope ABRA Auto Body & Glass - St. Louis Park AFLAC All Systems Installation, Inc. Bertelson Total Office Solutions Famous Dave’s Plymouth

First Minnesota Bank Graham Jewelers Hennepin County Commissioner Gail Dorfman MN Insurance Group, Inc. New Horizon Academy - Plymouth North Hennepin Community College Office Depot - Minnetonka Olympus Financial Advisors Prudential Insurance Strategic Financial Inc. T.G.I. Friday’s TDS Value Consulting Group Voice Solutions

1 – 5 Years Al and Alma’s Supper Club and Charter Cruises Anthem College Bassett Creek Dental Bayview Charter Cruises Bethel University College of Adult & Professional Studies & Graduate School BOMA of Greater Minneapolis Buffalo Wild Wings - Plymouth Color Direct Costco - Hruby, Annette DeVry University - St. Louis Park Drake Mallard Consulting - Profiles International Duke Realty Corp. Effective Learning for Growth Excelsior Energy Inc. Financial Concepts, Inc. HealthPartners West Clinic Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Johnson Hope Chest for Breast Cancer Investors Capital Corporation Kromer Co. LLC The Lock Up Self Storage Luther Collision & Glass - Plymouth Northwest Eye Clinic Rhodes, Jim Saint Therese, Inc. Sjoquist Architects, Inc. Springer Exteriors Tidy Clean Toepke, Sarah E. Twin Cities Orthopedics Verizon Wireless - Minnetonka Wellbridge Club Management

TwinWest Champions Thanks to the following people for referring new members to TwinWest. We appreciate their efforts to spread the word to others in their network about the benefits of chamber membership. Rick Kaufman Mike Miller - Integra Shield Financial Group Beth Ulrich – Fuzzy Duck Design Tara Krenner – Wells Fargo Pamela Muldoon – Next Stage Business If you know of someone whose business might benefit from TwinWest membership, please ask them to contact us at (763) 450-2220 or info@twinwest.com, or let us know how we might get in touch with them.

MINNETONKA PUBLIC SCHOOLS Focused on World-Class Child-Centered Excellence

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