January 2012
Directions www.twinwest.com/directions
Setting the Standard. Leading the Way.TM
Photo credit: Minnesota House of Representatives
2012 Legislative Session: TwinWest Chamber Sets Agenda page 5
TwinWest Establishes Business Agenda for 2012—page 3
Profile: St. Louis Park Mayor Jeff Jacobs—page 10
TwinWest Area Legislators—page 8
Upcoming Events and Activities—page 19
President’s Message TwinWest Establishes Business Agenda for 2012 Over the years TwinWest has developed an in-depth process for determining the legislative priorities of the business community in the western Twin Cities area. The process wraps up with the publication of a document we call our Business Agenda. The Business Agenda provides context around why we think certain issues are important, digests how those issues impact you as a business, and then advocates for specific solutions. TwinWest’s Government Affairs Committee—open to all members—does a great deal of the work to put together our Business Agenda. Once the Committee determines which policies should be included, a sub-group meets to discuss each policy, reviews drafted language, and prepares formal language to be sent to the Government Affairs Committee for discussion. The Government Affairs Committee, under the leadership of its chair, Mike Lehmann, Ferguson Enterprises, and TwinWest’s Government Affairs Director Judy Johnson, talks through each policy and eventually votes on language to pass to the TwinWest Board of Directors. As the decision-making body for TwinWest, the Board reviews the policies and then formerly adopts them. Once adopted the polices are formatted in our Business Agenda before the legislative session kicks off and delivered to state legislators. The policies are then our guideline as we react to and propose legislation to better the environment for job creation and maintenance. The Business Agenda is also important to the TwinWest Political Action Committee as it uses the TwinWest policies to evaluate and support candidates and elected officials. Strong member participation in the development of the policies makes TwinWest’s process unique. Each and every TwinWest member has the opportunity to provide perspective and expertise. As a result, TwinWest has a balanced work product that is neither partisan, nor political. The Business Agenda is about bettering the environment in which businesses in the western Twin Cities operate. On page 5 of this issue of Directions you will find a digest of our policies, as well as information on state-wide business priorities. On page 8, you will find our annual listing of our state legislators. In addition, when the 2012 Business Agenda is formatted, we will let you know and we will post it online at www.twinwest.com/agenda. Thank you to the members active in the development of the 2012 Business Agenda as well as those that support it through membership.
Bruce Nustad, president
TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
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Business Community Sets Agenda... 2012 Legislative Session: TwinWest Chamber Sets Agenda At it’s December 22 meeting, the TwinWest Board of Directors adopted six legislative priorities and four position statements. This collection of policies represents months of work by TwinWest’s Government Affairs Committee under the leadership Chair Mike Lehmann, Ferguson Enterprises, and TwinWest’s Government Affairs Director Judy Johnson. (See this month’s President Letter on page 1 of this issue of Directions for more information on the process used to develop the Business Agenda.) TwinWest 2012 Business Agenda TwinWest’s legislative agenda for 2012, called the Business Agenda, promotes the interest of members and the business community in the western Twin Cities before local and state government officials. Provided below is a summary of each key priority. Tax Policy/State Government Spending/ Government Services Redesign TwinWest believes government should live within its means and that tax dollars paid should provide a strong return on that investment, while supporting private sector job maintenance and creation. We know spending on critical services is important in maintaining a high quality of life. Necessary
revenues should generally come from our state’s future economic growth – not from tax increases. The business community understands Minnesota will never be a bargain basement state when it comes to taxes, nor should it be, but Minnesotans expect to receive a good value on the tax dollars they entrust to state and local governments. Principles contained in our policy: - The state should address the budget deficit by spending smarter, not by raising taxes. - Our tax code should be streamlined to encourage economic and business expansion. - Spending increases should come from economic growth. - The Governor and legislature must address future shortfalls by reforming state and local spending systems. - TwinWest opposes constitutional amendments to cap spending and believes that the legislature is elected to make those decisions each session. Transportation The long-term health of our state’s economy and businesses’ opportunity to grow jobs depends on our ability to efficiently transport workers to offices, goods to stores, and students to schools. Minnesota’s roads,
bridges, and transit systems are in need of upgrades and repairs. Commuters and freight are consistently slowed by congested traffic. Routes are altered and over-capacity roads and crumbling bridges jeopardize safety. An efficient, accessible, and reliable transportation system is crucial to the success of TwinWest member businesses. Current and expected congestion on our roadways is costing businesses time and money, and creating tension for employees. Improving transportation in the TwinWest area, which is a throughway for commuters from the northern and western exurbs, will benefit the entire state. Principles contained in our policy: - The state’s economy depends on the ability to move goods and people. - Transportation dollars should go toward transportation projects. - The Twin Cities area needs a regional, multi-modal transportation system. - A state commitment of $125 million to the Southwest Lightrail project is critical. Continued on next page…
TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
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...Business Community Sets Agenda... 2012 Legislative Session: TwinWest Chamber Sets Agenda Health Care Minnesota is not insulated from staggering health care costs and we need to find solutions to this issue. Premiums continue to increase at rates 3-4 times inflation, forcing employers to make significant changes to plan design that shift more cost onto employees. The market is beginning to see some companies, particularly small employers, dropping their health care programs altogether. These costs are already crowding out investments in other needed areas, including education and transportation. While reform is critical, we must ensure that it fosters increased competition and relies on private-market forces. Businesses, public sector employers, and individuals need to be able to purchase health insurance in a private, competitive and well-informed marketplace. Principles contained in our policy: - Health care reform must foster increased competition and rely on private market forces. - The health care system should reward value, not volume. - Absent a change in Federal healthcare reform, Minnesota should establish Healthcare Exchange that works for Minnesota and its businesses.
- Consumers should have more information, responsibility, and choice. E-12 and Lifelong Learning In today’s global economy, a highly skilled and educated workforce is very important to the success of Minnesota businesses, and the TwinWest area is home to successful and innovative school districts that should be models for districts throughout the state. Based on demographic trends, Minnesota’s future labor pool will be far more diverse than it is currently and will be drawn from workers who have lower educational skills. As the state’s population ages, reduced personal income and consumption will shrink business revenues and tax revenues. Increased health care costs will place more strain on the general fund budget, siphoning money that could be invested in our future workforce. Principles contained in our policy: - Systems, standards, and test results need to reflect the demands of a global economy. - Alternative teacher certification and licensure should continue to be part of a comprehensive education reform package. - The K-12 funding formula should be simplified. - Minnesota must support its future workforce by investing in early childhood
education. Energy Energy is the lifeblood of the economy. Of the various segments of the U.S. energy market (gasoline, diesel, heating oil, natural gas, electrical), the generation of affordable electrical energy especially is important to Minnesota businesses. Reliable and affordable electricity is important to TwinWest businesses regardless of industry, size, or location. Uncertainty regarding future supply and a declining competitive advantage in electricity prices may cause businesses to re-evaluate their activities in Minnesota. Minnesota must ensure a competitively priced, reliable product in order for its businesses to remain competitive. Principles contained in our policy: - Conservation programs should be evaluated by comparing the cost to businesses to real conservation results. - Further development of renewable energy options in Minnesota should be created through incentives, not mandates. - All types of generation, including hydroelectric and nuclear, should be considered for additional generating capacity. Continued on next page…
TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
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...Business Community Sets Agenda 2012 Legislative Session: TwinWest Chamber Sets Agenda Local and Regional Government TwinWest recognizes the importance of strong cities, with efficient services and solid infrastructure, in creating a healthy business climate. Strong cities add to the quality of life for all who live, work, and play in these communities, and thereby strengthening the value of the businesses within the community. A significant component of the cost of doing business in Minnesota and the TwinWest trade area is taxes and fees paid for state and local government spending to provide services. These fiscal obligations require a careful balance of the needs of government and business. Businesses need quality services at a reasonable price and local governments need a healthy business tax base. Businesses continue to pay property taxes at proportionately higher rates than homeowners. Principles contained in our policy: - City and county taxes should be based on the need for services and real growth. - TwinWest supports the reinstatement of the sales tax exemption for local units of government. - Historic spending is not a valid basis for local government aid. - TwinWest supports an effective Metropolitan Council.
Position Statements In addition to theses six policies, TwinWest has four position statements relating to workforce housing, fiscal disparities, prevailing wage, and legal reform. Policy Details The full policy and position statements will be released in detail mid-January, and will be available at www.twinwest.com/agenda. Get Involved To get involved in setting the legislative agenda for the business community, contact TwinWest’s Judy Johnson at (763) 450-2226 or e-mail judy@twinwest.com. In addition to our Government Affairs Committee, TwinWest operates a grass roots communication initiative called TwinWest Capitol Action Network (TwinWest CAN), is affiliated with the TwinWest Political Action Committee, gets involved locally through our business councils, and hosts a monthly Legislative Breakfast event.
TwinWest Joins Minnesota Chamber Federation Late December, TwinWest renewed its commitment to the advancement of statewide policy priorities and economic development by joining the Minnesota Chamber Federation. Minnesota Chamber Federation membership shows TwinWest’s commitment to advancing these legislative issues on a statewide basis: - Building the state budget with prioritybased budgeting. - Reinstating K-12 high school graduation standards. -Implementing cost-based electricity rates. -Bringing more certainty to environmental review and permitting. - Creating a state-designed health insurance exchange. In addition, as a Minnesota Chamber Federation member, TwinWest partners in Grow Minnesota!, the private-sector initiative committed to retaining and creating Minnesota jobs.
TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
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TwinWest Area Legislators... TwinWest Businesses Are Served By These State Senators:
Sen. Warren Limmer (R)* District 32
Sen. Gen Olson (R)* District 33
Sen. David Hann (R)* District 42
Sen. Teri Bonoff (D)* District 43
Sen. Ron Latz (D) District 44
Sen. Ann Rest (D)* District 45
Sen. Chris Eaton (D) District 46
Sen. Benjamin Kruse (R) District 47
* TwinWest Political Action Committee endorsed in 2010 election. TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
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...TwinWest Area Legislators TwinWest Businesses Are Served By These State Representatives:
Rep. Kurt Zellers (R)* District 32B
Rep. Steve Smith (R)* District 33A
Rep. Connie Doepke (R) District 33B*
Rep. Kirk Stensrud (R)* District 42A
Rep. Sarah Anderson (R) District 43A*
Rep. John Benson (D) District 43B
Rep. Steve Simon (D) District 44A
Rep. Ryan Winkler (D) District 44B
Rep. Sandra Peterson (D) District 45A
Rep. Lyndon Carlson (D) District 45B
Rep. Mike Nelson (D) District 46A
Rep. Debra Hilstrom (D) District 46B
Rep. Melissa Hortman (D) District 47B
* TwinWest Political Action Committee endorsed in 2010 election.
TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
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Profile...
St. Louis Park Mayor Jeff Jacobs Term: City Council 1991-1999; Mayor 1999 to present. City: St. Louis Park. Contact Information: jacobsjeffrey@comcast.net; tel. (952) 927-8061 Education: BA 1977 University of Minnesota; JD 1980 University of Minnesota. Family: wife Deb; sons Nicholas 26, Michael 21, Gregory 16. Committees/organizations you participate in as Mayor: STEP Board, Community Mediation Services Board of Directors, St. Louis Park Convention and Visitors Bureau Board, St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority. What initially sparked your interest in running for public office? Nothing special really; some aspire to greatness while others have it thrust upon them. I am in that latter category but without the greatness part – substitute instead ―15 minutes of fame‖ and you have a reasonably accurate picture. In 1988 I wanted to get involved with the City more and began volunteering for various city commissions – Zoning Task Force and Charter. When there was an opening on the City Council several people encouraged me to apply for it. So I did and the rest is history. The notion of being an elected
official, much less the mayor, and being in office for 20 years never occurred to me. What are the biggest issues facing your city? Dealing with the inevitability of change. We’re a middle-aged suburb going through a renaissance and the trick is to make decisions that will ensure our community will remain economically relevant for the remainder of the 21st century. When I first got elected more than 20 years ago my grandmother told me, ―Remember, when you do something today who you really do it for. Understand that you may never meet them, see them, know them or hear them talk but you better listen to them for they will judge you in the harshest light imaginable. If you screw it up, there is no statue or plaque on a wall that will assure your immortality. If you do it right those who come after you will learn from your hard work and courage and they will pay it forward when it comes their time. They may or may not remember you but if they walk on the bridges you helped build for them it won’t matter. You will. Never forget that a great many of your constituents haven’t been born yet.‖
maintenance, etc. but those come and go/wax and wane with the passage of time. Remembering my grandmother’s admonition is perhaps the most difficult challenge of all. Continued on the next page….
There are a lot of issues out there; light rail, freight rail, development, transportation issues, road reconfiguration, infrastructure
TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
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...Profile
St. Louis Park Mayor Jeff Jacobs What is your favorite part of being mayor? Talking to kids about their city, their history and their future. I want them to know by word and example that part of the job of mayor, or anything else for that matter, is to train your own replacement and that mentoring kids is an integral part of that task. I know a 5th grader or two at Susan Lindgren. Hopefully one of them will someday replace me.
willing to listen to those of others. Come to business council meetings; come to events sponsored by TwinWest and the City. What is your favorite city landmark? The beehive. It makes for a great story.
What is something from your past or present that people would be surprised to know about you? I have no special skills. My only special skill is convincing people that I do. Link | City of St. Louis Park
What initiative are you most proud of during your time on the city council or as mayor? There have been two: Children First and the adherence to the Carver governance model and the decisional processes we have in place because of it. They are interrelated. Remember, it is rarely what you do but rather how you do it that stays with people. Remember too, if you want to effect any sort of societal change at any level – start with the kids. What advice do you have for members to make an impact in city government? Be a part of the process by which decisions are made. Do not assume things about the motivations of those in office – talk to them directly with the knowledge that everyone wants the city to succeed. Share ideas and be
Historic Lilac Park beehive fireplace in St. Louis Park. Photo credit: Doug Wallick.
TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
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27th Annual Gala Save $10 on Tickets Before January 15 Planning for the 27th Annual TwinWest Gala is underway. Bev Russell, CAbi/Independent Fashion Consultant, chairs this signature event and you won’t want to miss it. Watch your e-mail for announcements about event features and fun. 27th Annual TwinWest Gala Save the date: Friday, March 9, 2012 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Minneapolis - Park Place Early bird special Purchase tickets by January 15, 2012 and save $10 each. Also, buy ten tickets and get two free. Investment with early bird special: $75/ticket. $85/ticket after January 15. For ticket or sponsorship information, contact Victoria Marley at victoria@twinwest.com or 763.450.2227. Link | 27th Annual TwinWest Gala
Thank you to these sponsors: Allina Hospitals and Clinics, Platinum Sponsor CenterPoint Energy, Gold Sponsor LarsonAllen, LLP, Gold Sponsor Center National Bank, Silver Sponsor Circadian, Silver Sponsor Medica, Silver Sponsor Rasmussen College, Silver Sponsor TDS, Silver Sponsor Xcel Energy, Silver Sponsor Cass Screw Machine Products, Bronze Sponsor Grand Casino Mille Lacs & Hinckley, Bronze Sponsor Crescent Moon Productions, Lighting Sponsor Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Minneapolis - Park Place, Host Sponsor Fuzzy Duck Design, Design Sponsor Graham Jewelers, Raffle Sponsor High Five, Raffle Favor Sponsor J & F Reddy Rents, Inc., Transportation Sponsor Liberty Carton Company, Decor Sponsor Morrie's Cadillac & Saab, Valet Sponsor Star Tribune, Media Sponsor Swank Audio Visuals, Audio/Visual Sponsor Speedpro NW Minneapolis, Signage Sponsor The Magic of Suzanne, Entertainment Sponsor Wallace Carlson Printing, Print Sponsor
TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
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Success TwinWest Read these Member-submitted Articles Focused on Helping Businesses Succeed The CEO’s Guide to Understanding Your IT Staff
Cloud Computing Levels the Playing Field for Small Businesses
Keith Schoolcraft, president and owner, aCOUPLEofGURUS
Chris Lyons, vice president of business services, Comcast Twin Cities Region
Over the past ten years I have managed a thriving team of experts. These I.T. professionals (or GURUs as I like to call them) are the heart of aCOUPLEofGURUS. I have learned a lot of valuable lessons on what it takes to manage a team of experts; they require a special management style. As some of you may have your own I.T. staff, I want to share with you some of the insights gained by managing my own I.T. company.
An explosion of cloud computing services means that small businesses can tap into virtually any specialized software at a price that makes sense. Here is a look at cloud computing and what small businesses should consider before they buy.
When I speak with business executives who have their own internal I.T. staff, I quickly realize how difficult it is to manage internal I.T. personnel when you have a limited understanding of technology. One CFO told me ―I leave him alone because I don’t really know what he does.‖ Another business owner admitted his I.T. person told him, ―I have intentionally made this network complex so that you can’t hire anybody else but me.‖ This presents a huge problem! Over time it has become apparent to me the bigger problem is that most people that manage an internal I.T. staff do not fully understand what they do or how they need to be managed… (Follow link below for the full article.) Link | Full CEO guide article continued
The recent growth in hosted computing services, or ―cloud computing,‖ means that small businesses now have access to the same powerful business systems leveraged by their larger competitors. It’s a development that levels the playing field for those that take advantage of the right tools. So what is cloud computing and how do you find the right provider? ―Cloud computing‖ uses off-site servers for data storage and management. Once called ―time sharing,‖ the practice originated when mainframe computers required large, climate-controlled buildings and customers leased time to run programs. As computers became smaller, more powerful and less expensive, companies built their own computer centers and wrote proprietary software to run their business operations… (Follow link below for the full article.) Link | Full cloud computing article continued Submit your article to TwinWest via e-mail at info@twinwest.com. TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
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Take Note Nominate Your Favorite Entrepreneur Do you know any innovative, hard-working, TwinWestmember small business entrepreneurs? Now’s the time to turn the spotlight on them! The Small Business Awards Taskforce is currently soliciting nominations for our 2012 Entrepreneur of the Year and Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year awards. These awards give much-deserved attention to those who take the risk of starting and running business enterprises. Candidates for these awards are judged on business strategies, financial success and community involvement. Our Small Business Awards Task Force, made up of TwinWest members, will select the finalists in March 2012. Nominations are due January 31, 2012. Self nominations are accepted. Link | Entrepreneur and Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year nomination form
Foundation Scholarship Application Available: Due January 27, 5:00 p.m. The work of the TwinWest Foundation goes well beyond the money raised. It's all about helping students realize their educational dreams. Each year TwinWest Foundation scholarships are granted to graduating high school students from TwinWest member school districts and private schools. Students are evaluated based on their academic achievement, extracurricular activities, community service, work history, and financial need. Typical college scholarships range from $500 to $1,500. The Foundation's $5,000 Legacy Scholarship is awarded each year to one outstanding high school senior who exemplifies positive leadership attributes and is a well-rounded student role model. Scholarship awards are announced in April. Applications are available now and are due at 5:00 p.m. on January 27, 2012. A special thank you to the businesses and individuals that donate to the scholarship fund. With your help, we are investing in tomorrow's leaders, today. For more information on the TwinWest Foundation or the scholarship program click here, or contact Chris Kirwan at 763.450.2223 or chris@twinwest.com. Link | TwinWest Foundation scholarship application
TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
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TwinWest Academy Leadership, Context, and Experience Come Together in TwinWest Academy Using the community as a classroom, TwinWest Academy’s contextual leadership curriculum and hands-on experiences drive results for business and community leaders. The program kicks off January 11, 2012. TwinWest Academy is built on today’s needs of established and emerging leaders, all with a focus on developing leadership skills while spotlighting regional community issues. The program connects participants to diverse aspects of the community and includes a strong, professional leadership development curriculum delivered by Augsburg College. Using the TwinWest Chamber’s ―community as a classroom‖ proven methodology, participants go where the action is to gain an insider’s view behind-the-scenes of key organizations in the community. Participants fuse newfound ideas and broader perspectives into their workplace projects and daily life. TwinWest Academy participants graduate with: 2012 Sessions (subject to change): - A greater personal vision and confidence through leadership exploration; LEADERSHIP
CONTEXT
EXPERIENCE
January 11
value-based leadership assessment
leadership models and personal leadership
heath care tour
February 8
strengths-based leadership workshop
media and campaigns/ elections panels
media outlet tour
- Expanded perspectives on leadership, communications, and citizenship; - A strong understanding of key issues and challenges facing us today; - Direct connections with movers and shakers in the community; - A unique, hands-on experience producing a noticeable impact in the workplace.
March 14
governing in difficult political and economic times
issues and public policy discussions with legislators
State Capitol event with state elected officials
April 11
part one: Good to Great workshop
local government and community panel
city hall tour
May 9
part two: Good to Great workshop
energy and lobbying panel
energy producer tour
June 13
leaders as strategy implementers workshop
Contact TwinWest at 763.450.2220 to learn more. Investment: $550.
executive leadership panel
corporate tour
Link | Learn more or register
platinum sponsors
- 10 percent discount on Augsburg programs and courses.
gold sponsors TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
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Members
Welcome New Members/Member Orientation Photos EZ Home Solutions 6465 Wayzata Boulevard Suite 400 St. Louis Park, MN 55426 Chris Haqq CONTRACTORS INSURANCE RESTORATION European Wax Center 4105 Vinewood Lane North Plymouth, MN 55442 Cindy Yared BEAUTY PRODUCTS HEALTH & WELLNESS
O’Mara Architects Inc. 1805 Hampshire Lane Golden Valley, MN 55427 Dan O’Mara ARCHITECTS CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
SERVPRO of Minnetonka 2305 Louisiana Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55427 Rachelle Martini BUILDING MAINTENANCE & REPAIR CARPET CLEANERS CLEANING SERVICES & SUPPLIES CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES CONTRACTORS INSURANCE RESTORATION
The Grounds Guys 1311 5th Street South Plymouth, MN 55441 Sean Leyk LAWN CARE SNOW PLOWING/REMOVAL 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. Link | Member Orientation January 4
Member Orientation sponsor:
GREG RYE OWNER AND CEO
603 EAST LAKE STREET SUITE 213 WAYZATA, MN 55391 952-476-8392 OFFICE 612-581-7608 CELL GREGRYE@AOL.COM
Left to right: Time Shore - Associated Bank; Michael Henzler International Travel Care; Kari Johnke-Henzler - International Travel Care; Rick Sundberg - Johnson Controls
Left to right: Ashley Hightower - Minnesota State University, Mankato @ Edina; Jennifer Nixon - SeilerSchindel; Jay Stohl - Metro Vein Clinic
TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
“It’s All About Relationships”
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Members
Renewing Members
25+ Years_____________________ ACT Management, Inc. Coffee Mill, Inc. Hoigaard’s City of Hopkins Minnesota Masonic Home North Ridge Minnetonka Public School District #276 YMCA-Northwest Branch 21-25 Years___________________ Fastsigns-Minnetonka 16-20 Years___________________ Oliver Financial 11-15 Years___________________ Park Dental– Ridgepark Shred it Tunheim 6-10 Years____________________ Al and Alma’s Supper Club & Charter Cruise BG Consulting ECM Publishers, Inc. First Western Bank & Trust GSP Consulting Corporation Herzing University Mohawk Moving & Storage PillowGram QuarterTon Productions, Inc. The Whole Learning School
1-5 Years_____________________ Chersterton Academy Chyten Educational Services Concrete Coatings Unlimited, LLC Hennepin County DOCCR ACF IND Horwitz/NSI Humana MarketPOINT Leviton, Nick-Colliers International Parkers Lake Apartments Quality Business Solutions SharePoint Credit Union Soulo Communications
Chamber Champion Thank you to this champion for referring a new member to TwinWest: Benjamin Court, Messerli & Kramer, P.A. 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.
Leslie Knutson, January Volunteer Superstar! TwinWest is very happy to recognize Leslie Knutson of Nexpro Personnel Services as our January 2012 Volunteer Superstar. Leslie has been very active with TwinWest over the past several years. As a member of our Gala Committee, she has very generously offered her time to help the chamber to plan and promote our biggest event of the year. As an Ambassador, she participated in many ribbon cuttings making sure new businesses are welcomed to our community. Finally, as a member of Network Connections, Leslie engaged other TwinWest members in strategic networking and community activities. Leslie has exemplified effective member involvement here at TwinWest and we are very grateful for her participation. Thank you, Leslie!
TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
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Snapshots
Link | www.twinwest.com/photos
December Judicial Selection Legislative Breakfast
Ribbon Cutting at European Wax Center
Holiday Overtime Expo at Sheraton Minneapolis West
Business Showcase at First National Bank TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
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January Calendar... Wednesday, January 4 Member Orientation| link 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Investment: No cost to attend. Each month TwinWest offers an opportunity for new members and new employees of existing members to learn about their opportunities with the chamber and how to 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, January 5 St. Louis Park Business Council | link 7:30– 9:00 a.m. Wolfe Lake Professional Center 5000 36th Street, St. Louis Park, MN 55416 Investment: No cost to attend. The St. Louis Park Business Council is for business and civic leaders who want to have a voice in local government and grassroots issues. This monthly event is great for businesses looking to get active in their local community.
Tuesday, January 10 Plymouth Business Council |link 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. WestHealth, Inc. (Main Level Conference Room) 2805 & 2855 Campus Drive Plymouth, MN 55441 Investment: No cost to attend. The Plymouth Business Council is for business and civic leaders who want to have a voice and make an impact on local government and grassroots issues. Come attend the Plymouth Business Council meeting to engage in conversations on timely topics with city, school, county, and state public officials while networking with local business leaders. Event partner: Plymouth Rotary. To get there: From Highway 55 going west, turn right on Northwest Boulevard before 494. Take a left onto Campus Drive.
Wednesday, January 11 TwinWest Academy Leadership, Context, Experience| link Starts January 11, 2012 Investment: $550/participant, includes course material, tours, structured leadership development curriculum, and scheduled meals. With a focus on developing leadership skills while spotlighting regional community issues, TwinWest Academy launches January 11. The program connects participants to diverse aspects of the community and includes a strong professional leadership development curriculum delivered by Augsburg College. For more information or to register: Chris Kirwan, tel. 763.450.2223 Judy Johnson, tel. 763-450-2226
Friday, January 13 TwinWest Legislative Breakfast I Session Preview, Hear from Legislative Leaders|link 7:30—9:00 a.m. DoubleTree by Hilton Minneapolis – Park Place 1500 Park Place Boulevard St. Louis Park Investment: $30 for members. The TwinWest Chamber of Commerce’s Legislative Breakfast series is Minnesota’s premier legislative and political forum. Each breakfast unites compelling, wellknown speakers and the state legislators with more then 150 business leaders from across the Twin Cities. This month’s topic is the popular Session Preview, where we will hear from legislative leaders on what the business community can expect during the 2012 session. To get there: From I-394 take the Park Place/Xenia exit. Go south on Park Place Boulevard, and then turn right on 16th.
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.
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...January Calendar Monday, January 16 Power Partners Networking|link 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Investment: $75/year. Pre-registration required. Power Partners is a networking program that helps members exchange business leads.
Wednesday, January 18 Overtime at State Farm—Tracy Taylor Agency|link 4:30 p.m.—6:30 p.m. State Farm - Tracy Taylor Agency 5850 Opus Parkway, Suite 205 Minnetonka Investment: No cost to attend.
To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road.
Join TwinWest and State Farm—Tracy Taylor Agency as we host the January Overtime Event
Tuesday, January 17 Prospective Member Forum | link 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Investment: No cost to attend.
To get there: From 169 South, take the Bren Road/Londonberry exit. Turn right on Bren Road East. Then turn left on Opus Parkway.
TwinWest invites you to a one-hour forum to learn how to grow your network and improve the business climate through TwinWest.
Thursday, January 19 Crystal/New Hope Business Council | link 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. Liberty Diversified International, 5600 North Highway 169, New Hope Investment: No cost to attend.
To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road. Wednesday, January 18 Government Affairs Meeting | link 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. TwinWest office, 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth Investment: No cost to attend. Discuss public policy issues impacting the business community. To get there: Go west on Highway 55. Take a left a Revere Lane, just after Highway 169. Turn right onto the frontage road.
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.
Tuesday, January 24 Minnesota Chamber 2012 Session Priorities | link 4:00p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Saint Paul RiverCentre 175 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul Investment: $90, includes dinner
Friday, January 27 Business Showcase at Brown College | link 11:30 - 1:00 p.m. Brown College 5951 Earle Brown Drive Brooklyn Center
The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce presents its annual high-profile reception and dinner with a sell-out crowd of over 1,500 business leaders, elected officials, associations representatives and local chambers of commerce.
Join TwinWest and Brown College as we host the January Business Showcase. Network with area business leaders, enjoy a complimentary light lunch.
Legislative leaders are back to highlight their priorities for the 2012 Legislative Session and share their views on the major issues facing Minnesota businesses and the economy. Panelists are: Senate Majority David Senjem (RRochester); Senate Minority Leader Tom Bakk (DFLCook); Speaker of the House Kurt Zellers (R-Maple Grove); House Minority Leader Paul Thissen (DFL - Minneapolis). For more information contact Judy Johnson director of Government Affairs, at 763-450-2226. If you RSVP or register directly with the Minnesota Chamber and want to sit with TwinWest, you must note that in your reservation with them.
To get there: From Highway 100 North, take the 57th Avenue North exit toward John Martin Drive. Turn left on John Martin Drive, Take the first right on to Earle Brown Drive.
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
To get there: Go East on 394 to 94 East. Merge onto West 5th Street then take a right onto North Washington Street. Take the Second right onto Kellogg Boulevard West.
TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
Directions—January 2012
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Board & Leadership TwinWest Board of Directors Executive Committee Greg Korstad, Larkin Hoffman Attorneys, Chair Mike Sowada, Chair-elect Dannette Coleman, Medica, Past Chair Nathan Agre, Blanski Peter Kronlage & Zoch, P.A. CPAs, Treasurer Bruce Nustad, TwinWest, President Directors Becky Bakken, Citizens Independent Bank Gordy Engel, The Foursome Fine Apparel and Shoes 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 Pat Mascia, Duke Realty Corp. Samantha Metcalf, LarsonAllen LLP Pamela Muldoon, Next Stage Media Group Bob Schlichte, Grand Casino Mille Lacs & Hinckley Jon Thompson, Opportunity Partners Matt Thompson, US Bank Beth Ulrich, Fuzzy Duck Design
TwinWest Staff
Follow Us
Bruce Nustad, President Judy Johnson, Government Affairs Director Jacqui Sauter, Regional Sales Director Chris Kirwan, Member & Community Engagement Director Kristen George, Administrative Assistant
Flickr | www.flickr.com Twitter | www.twitter.com Facebook | www.facebook.com LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com YouTube | www.youtube.com
TwinWest Partners Loretta Kenney-Lillejord, Owl Bookkeeping & CFO Services, Accounting Victoria Marley, Signature Events Representative
Contact Us 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 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
Directions—January 2012
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