May 2010
www.twinwest.com
Setting the Standard. Leading the Way. ™
Navigating the Deadliest Patch: Entrepreneur and Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year Finalists have reached a destination of success Feature Story page 7
Photography provided by Sandy Benson Photography. Courtesy of Al & Alma’s Supper Club & Charter Cruises’ Signature Series Motor Yacht: Bella Vista.
History and optimism come together page 4 Profiles: Senator David Hann
Page 8
Make plans now for the 25th Annual TwinWest Golf Classic Page 12
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table of contents
from the president’s desk
6 MEMBER PROFILE 7 F EATURE STORY
History and Optimism Come Together
Hoigaard’s - A member in the news
For many reasons, this year’s annual TwinWest Gala on March 5 should have been a quiet, routine event. But in reality, because of our strong history and today’s optimism, the business community put together a fantastic event that met its financial goal for the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce Foundation and celebrated the volunteerism that makes TwinWest great. There were hundreds of people and organizations that worked together to make our 25th Annual Gala a success, and here is a list of many that deserve special recognition.
Navigating the Deadliest Patch: Entrepreneur and Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year Finalists have reached a destination of success (continued onto page 9 and 12)
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PROFILE
Senator David Hann Business Ballot
VENT & 10 EPROGRAM DETAILS Make plans to attend TwinWest’s events in May, including: Member Orientation; Member Talk; Prospective Member Forum; TwinWest Foundation Scholarship Reception; Small Business Awards Luncheon; Legislative Breakfast; Business Showcase. TwinWest Emerging Leaders upcoming events!
12 CHAMBER NEWS
Small Business Awards Luncheon Make plans now for the 25th Annual TwinWest Golf Classic
MEMBERS - NEW & 14 RENEWING
TwinWest encourages all of our members to conduct business with each other New Member Photos
Gala Committee: Lisa McDaniel, Voyager Bank, chair; Stephanie Cadmus, Mod&Co; Jackie Darsow, Brunswick Zone; Christie Farrell, FETCH! Pet Care; David Fieger, Nemer Fieger; Daniel Goldman, Twin Realty Investment Co.; Chris Hasling, Northwestern Mutual; Julie Hoff, The Whole Learning School; KT Anderson, Dale Carnegie Training; Leslie Knutson, Nexpro Personnel Services; Denise Pech, StarchTech, Inc.; Lisa Ratke, Designs by Lisa, Inc.; Beth Rodich, Minnesota Chiropractic and Rehabilitation; Bev Russell; Ann Sangpan, Check Engine Express; Lisa Schernthaner, Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.; Lynn Talen, Fuzzy Duck Design; Patricia Trumbull, Mary Kay Cosmetics; Sarah Wells, Citizens Independent Bank; Lisa Wilkie, LarsonAllen LLP; Jeffry Wosje, Center National Bank. Sponsors: TDS (platinum); LarsonAllen LLP (gold); BNC National Bank, Center National Bank, Xcel Energy (silver); Grand Casino Mille Lacs & Hinckley, Medica, Cass Screw Machine Products, US Bank (bronze); Designs by Lisa (décor); Mod&Co (design); Liberty Carton Company (décor); Paeonia Floral (floral); Doubletree Hotel Minneapolis Park Place (host); Crescent Moon Productions (lighting); Star Tribune Media Company (media); FedEx Office (print/signage); Graham Jewelers (raffle); High Five (raffle favor); Reddy Rents (transportation); Vino 100 (wall of wine). Participating restaurants and caterers: Arby’s Market Fresh Catering; Brunswick Zone; Coffee Mill, Inc.; Costco; CRAVE; Doubletree Hotel Minneapolis Park Place; Famous Dave’s BBQ, Plymouth; Girvan Grille at Edinburgh USA; Jake’s City Grille; Kip’s Irish Pub and the Marriott Minneapolis West; Mintahoe Catering & Events; Peg’s Countryside Café & Catering; Panera Bread; Pittsburgh Blue; Rush Creek Golf Club; Town & Country Caterers @ The Reserve; Woodland Hill Winery; Vino 100. In addition, there were dozens of other member volunteers, TwinWest staff members, and family members of TwinWest staff, that helped before, during, and after the event. To everyone listed here, to each and every member of TwinWest including our generous auction donors, to event director Victoria Marley, to TwinWest’s partners, to the TwinWest Board of Directors, and to the TwinWest Foundation Board Directors, we say thank you. Thank you for honoring our history and coming together through optimism once again. You truly make TwinWest a great organization. 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.
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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
member profile
Hoigaard’s - A member in the news Member name: Todd Brewer, president Business name: Hoigaard’s In business since: 1895 TwinWest member since: 1960 Number of employees: 35 full time and 45 seasonal Location: St. Louis Park
sports, bike and travel. We were founded as a tent and awning company and we still provide these services as Hoigaards Custom Canvas in Eden Prairie.
What makes you stand out from your competition? Our employees. They are long-term sports enthusiasts who are knowledgeable and committed to service. Part of our mission is to create, support and inspire outdoor enthusiasts and we have the staff to do it. They help customers find the right products for good outdoor experiences. What is your company’s most significant recent accomplishment? Ski Magazine, the biggest ski magazine across the country, named us “Midwest Ski Retailer of the Year.” It was a great honor because it came from their readers who are consumers who buy our products.
What is your main service/product? We are a five-generation family-owned retail outdoor sporting goods store that sells MAY Small 12/9/2009 equipment andBusiness.qxp apparel for ski, camp, paddle
Why does your business belong to the TwinWest Chamber? 9:06 AM toPage 1 through the Chamber and We like network
be involved in the business community. We like to keep abreast of what’s happening in St. Louis Park and the entire Twin Cities metro area. I also participate in the St. Louis Park Business Council.
CONTACT INFORMATION: Todd Brewer toddb@hoigaards.com 5425 Excelsior Boulevard St. Louis Park, MN 55416 (952) 929-1351 www.hoigaards.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.
It’s a simple, but effective concept. We succeed when you succeed. So everything we do, every business service that we offer, is there to help you establish a solid financial foundation and build a successful business. We’re ready to go to work for you today.
www.anchorlink.com Plymouth 763-559-9336 • Wayzata 952-473-4606 6
TwinWest Directions
Feature Story
Navigating the Deadliest Patch Entrepreneur and Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year Finalists have reached a destination of success The 2010 Entrepreneur and Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year finalists are captains of their industry, leading their crew, reeling in tough business decisions, and riding the wave to success. Like the maritime stars of Discovery Channel’s hit show, The Deadliest Catch, they have weathered the storms of the high seas along their journey and have survived and thrived through daily challenges and tough economic times. They have reached a port of prosperity and now, they share their stories.
MEET THE ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR FINALISTS: Barbara Hensley, Founder and CEO Hope Chest for Breast Cancer Fueled by the loss of two sisters to breast cancer, Barbara Hensley left a 25-year career in corporate America, made a commitment to help under-served women battling the disease, and founded the
Hope Chest for Breast Cancer. Today, along with fundraising activities, Hensley’s retail stores have sold enough upscale furniture, decorative accessories, and designer women’s clothing to provide $950,000 in support to women in need. Photos of Hensley’s sisters hang inside her stores in Orono/Navarre and St. Paul to remind all who enter of the cause that is near and dear to her heart. She says she knows her sisters are saying, “You go girl! Way to take adversity and turn it into something positive.“ Hensley has focused her strategies on developing connections with both individuals and businesses that result in donated merchandise to sell in the stores. She is clear that without donations, there are no stores. Hensley says her mantra is “excellent quality, excellent buys…all for an excellent cause” and as a social entrepreneur, she is proud of the fact that she runs a profitable business that will be attractive to potential franchisees and allow them to make a living while making a difference. Hensley is confident that the franchise model
that she has created for her retail stores is a strong one that will result in additional stores once the economy recovers. Hensley is energized to carry on her sisters’ legacies, for them, their families, and the women they serve.
Julie McDonald, President iVision Human Resources For the past six years, Julie McDonald has thrived on learning about multiple businesses and creating and implementing human resource solutions that meet the needs of each. McDonald enjoys the variety of business cultures and work environments and the challenge of creatively serving more than 60 clients with customized solutions. see feature story, page 9
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profile
Senator David Hann: District 42 We had a chance to catch up with Senator David Hann, District 42, to get his take on the legislative issues as well as a glimpse of his personal profile.
Year Elected: 2002 Number of Terms Served: 2 Legislative District: 42 (Eden Prairie and southern Minnetonka) Home: Eden Prairie Education: Bloomington Lincoln HS, Gustavus Adolphus College (BA Religion), some graduate work at the University of Chicago Occupation: Consultant Family: married to Anne (28 years); daughter Rachel, sons Stephen, John and Jacob; and granddaughter, Naomi Committees: K-12 Education Policy and Finance Committee; Agriculture and Veterans Committee; Environment, Energy and Natural Resources Finance Division; Health, Housing and Family Security Committee; Legislative Audit Commission; Joint House-Senate Claims Committee
What sparked your interest in public service and what has been most rewarding for you in the role of State Senator? I ran for and was elected to the Eden Prairie School Board out of concern for my children’s education and the desire to improve education has continued to be the largest motivation for me as an elected official. What I have found to be most rewarding is the opportunity to engage in policy discussions with fellow senators, those who serve in administrative capacities in government, and citizens. There is always more to learn.
What solutions do you think are necessary to meet Minnesota’s budget challenges now and in the future? We need to recognize the changing demographic reality and put our state on a course that is economically sustainable. This means we need to adopt policies that will encourage private sector investment and growth, and work to restrain the expansion of program commitments that cannot be met if current growth trends continue. We need to remember that many good things can and should be done outside of government.
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TwinWest Directions
What can the legislature do to help make Minnesota more competitive when it comes to business and job creation, retention, and expansion? Reduce tax burdens, especially on small to midsize companies and eliminate or streamline some of the regulatory requirements that we place on our job creators. We need to make sure our business climate is at least as attractive to investment as other places, particularly in business sectors for which we already have some advantages: agri-business, bio-tech and medical sectors for example. We should re-examine our labor laws and adopt “Right to Work” legislation, and make sure our unemployment and workers comp structures are competitive. We certainly should not adopt further mandates legislating wages or benefits, and we need practical and affordable health insurance options.
Why is the business community important to you? I spent almost 25 years in the private sector as a senior manager for a food manufacturing business (Deli Express). I know how difficult it is to thrive in a competitive market place and I appreciated the opportunities I had as an employee to be productive and provide for my family. There is no more efficient way to allocate goods and services than the free market. No company will profit unless it provides something of value to a customer who has the freedom to say “no.” People serving in government should remember this and try to avoid the temptation to bring political solutions to what are essentially economic problems! How can Minnesota best meet the needs of K-12 students, our future workforce, as it relates to public education, teacher accountability, and school environment/ learning innovations for the future? We need to reform the structure of public education so that it is focused on educating students. Unfortunately, we have had for some time a system that is excessively political in nature and dominated by the interests of public sector unions in alliance with politicians in St. Paul. This has impeded objective assessment of the challenges we face and not permitted the kind of entrepreneurial leadership we see in the private sector. Minnesota should adopt policies that empower parents to make meaningful choices about the schools their children attend, even if they lack financial resources, and policies that strengthen local school boards. We elect local officials to manage schools; let’s make sure they have the tools to effectively do so. We need to de-centralize education rather than continuing
B u s i n e s s B allot In an effort to gage the views of business leaders, TwinWest produces a monthly business ballot on various issues. Results below are from the Legislative Breakfast on March 12, 2010. BUSINESS CONDITIONS Compared to 2009, how would you describe business conditions thus far in the first quarter of 2010?
25% - Worse 35% - About the same 40% - Better EDUCATION The teacher compensation system should:
8.1% - Remain status quo 5.4% - Be based solely on student achievement 86.5% - Combine student achievement with teacher knowledge, skill and performance. TAXES AND BUDGET How should the Legislature and Governor balance the budget?
5.6% - Raise revenue 27.8% - Reduce services 66.7% - Redesign services
Members listen to panelists Donna Cassut - DFL Deputy Party Chair; Tony Sutton - GOP Party Chair; and Jack Uldrich - Independent Party Chair at the March Legislative Breakfast.
down the path of greater control from St. Paul and Washington, D.C.
What is something past or present that people would be surprised to know about you? A number of years ago, a friend of mine produced some commercials for a local tire company. He asked me to be part of the “talent” in one of them and so I have had a brief stint as an actor as part of my resume. I’m still waiting for Hollywood to call.
CONTACT INFORMATION: Senator David Hann District 42 Phone: (651) 296-1749
feature story feature story, from 7 Helping McDonald serve clients is a staff of dedicated employees who share in her vision and goals. She makes a point to connect with all of them on a daily basis to assure that everyone knows where the company is headed and makes a commitment to getting there. McDonald says her secret to success is something that she has had to learn over the years while running at fast forward speed within her workday. She listens intently to business owners and their employees and focuses on being internally nimble to make quick changes to meet the client’s needs. Externally, it is about focusing on building customer relationships that are complimentary and strategic alliances with other professionals who can also meet her clients’ needs. McDonald is most proud of continuing to be profitable amid today’s economy. She believes that her company is doing well because instead of striving to grow, she has focused on solidifying stronger relationships with existing clients. McDonald offers this advice to entrepreneurs who may be tempted to abandon ship: “Assess your value, re-evaluate your target market, and then re-route your course accordingly. “
Joseph Reilly, President Payroll Control Systems Payroll Control Systems is a leading provider of payroll, payroll tax, time and labor, and human resources solutions in the Upper Midwest. Joe Reilly’s 15-year-old company is committed to service, quality and excellence, fueled by his heartfelt commitment to being loyal to his clients and his employees. Reilly has a clear definition of his success and it is rooted in the support of good people who have surrounded him throughout his business career. They are his family, friends, staff and his wife of 30 years, Pat, who believed in him enough to let him pawn all of her jewelry, including her wedding ring, when cash was tight and he needed to make payroll. Reilly says, “I have worked hard, but the good people and support around me have enabled me to accomplish what I have.” Reilly is proud of the fact that he has 40 employees who are happy and fairly compensated, resulting in virtually no staff turnover and a workplace filled with loyalty and respect that carries over to customers. Reilly says his nomination for Entrepreneur of the Year forced him to reflect on his business,
prompting him to offer this advice to others who may be struggling as an entrepreneur: “Take a day and back away from the business and your family. Think about your priorities and why you started the business and you will come up with a solution.”
Navigating the Deadliest Patch: Entrepreneur and Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year Finalists have reached a destination of success Reilly appreciates the opportunity to provide a service of significant value to customers every week and he thrives on doing a great job. He is proud to say that he has reached his goal of walking in a room and hearing people say, “There’s Joe Reilly who owns that great payroll company.”
MEET THE EMERGING ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR FINALISTS: Pat Bedell, Owner Sign-A-Rama Pat Bedell loves driving around town and seeing the signs her company has created, including posters, banners, and lettering on multiple surfaces, from storefront windows to landscaped slabs of granite, even stud-mounted on rocks. Some are lit by electricity and others by candlelight, but all are shining examples of the quality and customer service that her company insists on for every project. “We treat every customer the same whether they spend ten dollars or ten thousand dollars,” says Bedell. Bedell likes setting her own destiny and that is why she owns a business. She says she is exactly where she wants to be and after jobs in corporate America and as a mortgage broker, she finds it rewarding to have the final say. She is also proud of making the right decisions that have kept her company afloat through the economic storm. Bedell also credits her employees for the company’s success. She says, “The heart of any business is its employees because they can make it or break it. They need to have a positive and caring attitude, so it’s important to hire people who share your vision and are willing to go the extra mile.” Bedell strives to make her employees feel they have ownership in the business and she treats them with respect.
Bedell encourages entrepreneurs to keep the passion alive by continuing to look at what they have accomplished and telling themselves to never give up. She also says, “If you focus on helping people, they will come back to you again and again.”
Tom Heller, President Soulo Communications As a fourth-grader, Tom Heller won an entrepreneur essay contest. He says he always knew that he would own his own business, but had no idea it would happen so fast. As a graphic design student at the University of Minnesota, he answered a call from the American Lung Association who came to campus to recruit freelance talent. From that first contact Heller established a six-year relationship that helped pay for college and led to the inception of Soulo Communications. Four years ago, Heller launched his attentiongetting technical writing and illustration division and things took off. He is proud of building that profitable division within a strong company that also provides design, catalog and document design and typesetting, and publishing. Heller says it is exciting to meet the needs of clients who are building successful companies. He loves going to work every day and being a positive influence. “We built the company on referrals because we treat our clients and employees as we want to be treated. I like helping people provide a better life for their families.” Heller encourages entrepreneurs to stay strong and not give up when the seas are rocky. “This is the one thing that defines successful entrepreneurs,” he says. “They find a way to sustain through the tough times.” Looking back, would he have done anything differently? Tom says, “I would have minored in business instead of ceramics.”
Eric Nelson, Owner Eric R. Nelson, CPA LLC Eric Nelson says that he finds taxes and accounting can be a pain point for a lot of business owners and he has a passion for easing their anxiety, while working in a profession that he loves. After spending years working for large companies who deal with the Securities Exchange Commission, Nelson made a change in the direction of his career and pursued a dream of owning his own business. He says he see feature story, page 12 May 2010
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event & program details
May 2010 5
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. Take a right on Wayzata Boulevard.
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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.
Connect with success at TwinWest’s events and programs—your links to influential people, innovative ideas, and exclusive opportunities.
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Series Sponsor:
To get there: From I-394, take Park Place/Xenia exit. Travel south on Park Place Boulevard and turn right on 16th Street.
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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.
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Morning Networking – Citizens Independent Bank 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. Citizens Independent Bank 10901 Excelsior Boulevard, Hopkins (952) 908-2244 No cost to attend.
ROI: Network with TwinWest and the Hopkins Business and Civic Associations. To get there: Take Highway 169 to Excelsior Boulevard. Go west on Excelsior Boulevard. The bank is on your left.
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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.
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.
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 fellow members as we announce the Entrepreneur and Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year award winners and celebrate the spirit of all of the finalists. Keynote speaker: Sue Dunkley, co-founder of New Horizon Enterprises, Inc. Emcee: Frank Vascellero, WCCO 4 News. To get there: From I-394, take Park Place/Xenia exit. Travel south on Park Place Boulevard and turn right on 16th Street.
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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.
ROI: Connect with success with the TwinWest Chamber. Meet other members, exchange ideas and sales leads, and build relationships.
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.
To get there: Take Highway 169 north to Rockford Road. Go west on Rockford Road to Nathan Lane. Take a right on Nathan Lane, followed by a right by the Holiday gas station. Follow the curve to the brick building.
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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.
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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.
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TwinWest Foundation Scholarship Reception 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Doubletree Hotel Minneapolis Park Place 1500 Park Place Boulevard, St. Louis Park (952) 542-8600 No cost to attend.
To get there: From I-394, take Park Place/Xenia exit. Travel south on Park Place Boulevard and turn right on 16th Street. TwinWest Directions
2010 Small Business Awards Luncheon: Navigating The Deadliest Patch 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Doubletree Hotel Minneapolis Park Place 1500 Park Place Boulevard, St. Louis Park (952) 542-8600 Investment: $45/member; $55/nonmembers
Business Showcase: Four Seasons Chiropractic Clinic Four Seasons Chiropractic Clinic 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 4455 North Highway 169, Suite 200, Plymouth (763) 557-9032 No cost to attend.
ROI: Join members, students, and donors as the TwinWest Foundation scholarships are awarded to area high school students - our future business leaders and entrepreneurs.
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May Event Sponsors:
ROI: Hear from compelling, well-known speakers and state legislators with more than 125 business leaders across the Twin Cities.
To get there: Take Highway 100 to Highway 7. Turn left onto Highway 7. Turn right onto Belt Line Boulevard.
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
Legislative Breakfast Guest Speaker: John Gunyou 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Doubletree Hotel Minneapolis Park Place 1500 Park Place Boulevard, St. Louis Park (952) 542-8600 Investment: $30/member; $40/nonmembers
TwinWest Emerging Leaders Upcoming Events! The Emerging Leaders program, sponsored by Citizens Independent Bank, seeks to support and enrich professionals in the first half of their careers by providing activities in each of the following focus areas of networking, education, philanthropy and leadership. Save the date: TwinWest Night with the Minnesota Twins hosted by the Emerging Leaders Wednesday, June 9, 2010 Target Field - Minneapolis Looking for Emerging Leaders Council Members! If you are interested in becoming a council member, we invite you to join our May Emerging Leaders Council meeting. Contact Chris Kirwan at (763) 4502223 or chris@twinwest.com to learn more or if you are interested in attending. Emerging Leaders May Council Meeting Tuesday, May 11, 2010 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. TwinWest Chamber office – Plymouth 10700 Old County Road 15, Suite 170, Plymouth For more information on the TwinWest Emerging Leaders or the June 9 Minnesota Twins event, contact Chris Kirwan at (763) 450-2223 or chris@twinwest. com, or visit www.twinwest.com/emergingleaders.
The New Hope Village Golf Course is the perfect place to hold your next company, group, or family outing. The picturesque, well-maintained course is ideal for golfers of every skill level. While the occassional sand trap and water feature keep the course challenging for experienced golfers, its not too intimidating for the average duffer. And, because its a nine-hole par-3 course, it won’t take all day to play – a couple hours will do! Once your group has completed its round, a covered pavilion equipped with gas grills and plenty of picnic tables provides an inviting place to gather. Restrooms and concessions are located just steps away in the course’s beautiful, air-conditioned clubhouse. And, the course’s friendly staff stand ready to greet your guests and help you in any way they can. So, if you’re looking for a fun, reasonably priced location for an upcoming outing, consider the New Hope Village Golf Course. Call 763-531-5178 today, for more information or to book your event.
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chamber news feature story, from 9
Make plans now for the 25th Annual TwinWest Golf Classic
is now in a better place to get things done and has the experience to help people define and reach their goals. Nelson says it is about having empathy for the clients he serves and helping them create their own destiny. He looks at every single interaction through the client’s eye and takes pride in implementing strategies throughout the year so tax time simply becomes “the punch line.” Eric sometimes thinks that he should have started his business sooner. Even though he ventured out during tough economic times, business exploded and he realizes that he is exactly where he wants to be, which he acknowledges is “extraordinarily fulfilling.” He encourages struggling entrepreneurs to “keep learning and never give up, keep evaluating your market, and find a way to establish yourself as a leader.”
Join us for the 2010 Small Business Awards Luncheon - “Navigating the Deadliest Patch: Entrepreneurs Who Have Weathered Economic Storms.”
The event will feature the six TwinWest finalists above who have weathered this fierce economic storm. Each has navigated the rough waters and we will recognize their accomplishments as great business leaders. Two will land the titles of Entrepreneur and Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year as they stead their course. The event will also include keynote speaker Susan K. Dunkley, co-founder of New Horizon Enterprises, Inc., and emcee Frank Vascellero, WCCO 4 News. Keynote Speaker Susan K. Dunkley, Co-founder of New Horizon Enterprises, Inc.
Sue Dunkley has served as president of the New Horizon Academy division since its inception in 1971 when she started in a church with eight children. Since then she has grown the business to be the eighth largest child care provider in the country and the largest hourly child care provider.
Emcee Frank Vascellaro, WCCO 4 News
Frank Vascellaro and his wife, Amelia Santaniello, anchor the 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. WCCO 4 News. They are the first married couple to co-anchor a daily news program in the Twin Cities. Prior to joining the WCCO-TV family, Vascellaro worked at KARE 11 anchoring the 5:00, 6:00 and 10:00 p.m. news. Vascellaro is an honorary chair of the Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery. He and Amelia are also involved with a number of charities and organizations in the Twin Cities. REGISTER TODAY! Thursday, May 20 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Doubletree Hotel Minneapolis Park Place 1500 Park Place Boulevard St. Louis Park, MN 55416 Investment: $45 members; $55 nonmembers $400 corporate table of 10 To register, visit www.twinwest.com or call (763) 450-2220
You will also have the chance to meet tomorrow’s leaders - local high school seniors receiving college scholarships from the TwinWest Foundation.
Join us for the 25th Annual TwinWest Golf Classic on August 9 at Golden Valley Golf & Country Club. This fundraising event is a great way to spend the day out of the office networking and enjoying the summer weather! Attend alone and be placed in a foursome to meet new business contacts, or arrange your own group of coworkers, clients or friends. Members and nonmembers are welcome to attend! Proceeds from various event activities benefit the TwinWest Foundation scholarship program, providing scholarships to local high school and adult students. Golden Valley Golf & Country Club Monday, August 9 1:00 p.m. Shotgun start Awards reception with heavy hors d’oeuvres. To register or for more information, call 763.450.2220 or email victoria@twinwest.com Sponsorships available! For information on becoming a sponsor, call Victoria Marley at 763.450.2227 or e-mail victoria@twinwest.com.
Thank You To Our Sponsors! G old S ponsors
A wards S ponsor Quality Resource Group, Inc. AV S ponsor Swank Audio Visuals B anner S ponsor Sign-A-Rama
D esign S ponsor Fuzzy Duck Design
B ronze S ponsors Anchor Bank Blanski Peter Kronlage & Zoch, P.A. CPAs Cass Screw Machine Products Culligan Water Conditioning DS&B, Ltd.
Financial Concepts, Inc. Larson Records Management Opportunity Partners Skjold-Barthel, P.A. US Bank Voyager Bank
F loral S ponsor Paeonia Floral
M edia S ponsor
New Business Minnesota
P rint S ponsor Gleason Printing Inc.
V ideo S ponsor
QuarterTon Productions, Inc.
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TwinWest Directions
7500 OFF
$
Your First Botox Treatment
Smart Lasik
There’s regular LASIK... And there’s Smart Lasik, from Northwest Eye, the state’s largest surgical eye clinic with nine locations in the Twin Cities. We also specialize in Botox and dermal fillers. LASIK starts with a phone call to arrange a FREE consultation with your surgeon. Chamber members receive $500 off per eye on any LASIK procedure through 7-31-10. Financing available with approved credit.
-plus-
50% OFF
Your First Restylane/Juvederm Treatment
25% OFF
Your Second Restylane/Juvederm Treatment
763-416-7635
Intermediate District 287 RESPONSIVE. INNOVATIVE. SOLUTIONS. District 287 Conference Center
Conveniently located near I-494 and Highway 55 in Plymouth, the Intermediate School District 287 Conference Center offers fully equipped meeting rooms to help your organization or group meet your event needs. The Conference Center is well suited for business groups to share expertise, practices and solutions in an educational environment.
We offer: • Seven meeting rooms, including rooms that may be combined to accommodate additional participants • Room capacities range from 16-98 guests with flexible seating style options • State of the Art Computer Training Lab with Smartboard™ access • Executive Conference Room with Point-to-Point and Multi-Point-Video Conferencing • High Speed Internet access • Dedicated event planning and technical support staff committed to your event success • Catering available upon request • Free parking • Flexible hours of operation, including evenings and weekends
Intermediate School District 287 Conference Center 1820 Xenium Ln. North | Plymouth, MN 55441 For more information, contact: Kim Green, Conference Center Coordinator | 763.550.7208 | Fax: 763.550.7199 | E-mail: reservation@district287.org
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.
Eide Bailly LLP’s Forensic Accounting & Investigative Services 5601 Green Valley Drive Suite 700 Bloomington, MN 554371145 Jason Olson ACCOUNTING & BOOKKEEPING
isLand Media Works, Inc.
101 Glenbrook Road Suite 10 Wayzata, MN 55391 Gary Landis MARKETING MUSIC-SALES & SERVICE SECURITY SYSTEMS & EQUIPMENT
Jim Krogh
8200 16th Street West St. Louis Park, MN 55426 Jim Krogh INDIVIDUAL MEMBER
North Star Resource Group
2701 University Avenue South East Minneapolis, MN 55414 Sophia Johnson FINANCIAL SERVICES
Page Productions
12800 Industrial Park Boulevard Suite 135 Plymouth, MN 55441 Roberta Brackman VIDEO AND FILM PRODUCTION
Right at Home-NW
3140 Harbor Lane North Suite 220 Plymouth, MN 55447 Kim Stender ELDER CARE HOME HEALTH SERVICES
United Health Group 9900 Bren Road East 300 Opus Center Minnetonka, MN 55343 Ms. Theresa Wilson HEALTH CARE PLANS
Universal Data Storage US 14244 23rd Avenue North Plymouth, MN 55447 Emmanuel Sema DOCUMENT IMAGING
University of Minnesota Athletics 4 Oak Street Southeast Suite 159 Minneapolis, MN 55455 Kerry Edwards PROFESSIONAL SPORTS
World Data Products
121 Cheshire Lane Suite 100 Minnetonka, MN 55305 Becky Kramer COMPUTERS/NETWORKING
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TwinWest Directions
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, PA General Mills Lehrman, Flom & Co., P.L.L.P.
21-24 Belt Line Properties Deli Double McLaughlin-Gormley-King Co. Twin Realty Investment Co. White Oaks Wealth Advisors, Inc. Wipfli, LLP
16-20 Lease Finance Group, Inc. Pearle Vision Sears Imported Autos, Inc. Target Commercial Interiors WestHealth, Inc.
11-15 Cardinal Stritch University Dale Carnegie Training Park Dental St. Louis Park Suburban Chevrolet
6-10 Act Management, Inc. Kraus-Anderson Companies Shred-N-Go State Farm - Susan A. Haub
1-5 AgilityFirst Allegra Print & Imaging - Plymouth Brentwood Park Townhomes and Apartments Brunswick Zone Dancing Flame Artwork and Design Daniel K. Duffy Architects, Inc. Effective Learning for Growth Eric R. Nelson, CPA MBT Faelon Partners, Ltd. Keystone Casing Money Mailer Twin Cities Prairie Sky Tax Service Sign-A-Rama Total Energy Concepts University of Phoenix Volunteers of America
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.
Charlie Jacobson is TwinWest’s April Volunteer Superstar! Congratulations to Charlie Jacobson, Liberty Diversified International. Charlie has been named TwinWest’s April Volunteer Superstar for his outstanding dedication to the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce Foundation and its scholarship program. For the past three years, Charlie has served on the Foundation’s High School Scholarship Committee, including chairing that committee this year. As part of Charlie’s scholarship work, he and his committee reviewed over 140 scholarship applications in May, each spent over 25 hours interviewing candidates, and selected 51 students for scholarship. In addition, Charlie has been a key fundraising asset as a member of the Foundation Board of Directors. Thank you and congratulations to Charlie!
MEMBER EVENT PHOTOS TwinWest members are actively involved in our events and programs. Whether our members are networking, developing plans for TwinWest events, taking charge of their professional development, or new to the Chamber, we are proud to post photos of our members getting a return on their member investment.
MEMBER ORIENTATION PHOTOS
From left to right: Jennifer Heifort, Fiscal Foundations; Vicki Andren, Fiscal Foundations; Amy Fossey, Unishippers; Tim Fossey, Unishippers.
Lee LaMere, Citizens Independent Bank Colin Serle, Black Cat Steve McCulloch, Linsk Flowers Rachel O’Brien, J & F Reddy Rents Mark Maroney, Corporate 1st Impression Haitham Bassiouny, City Marketing Solutions Dannette Coleman, Medica 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.
From left to right Wayne Teig, CREST, LLC.; Kelly Minke, Paychex; Jackie Fenske, Ladin Ventures; Padma Chintapalli, 1031 + TIC Investments
Helping You Start, Run, Grow or Expand Your Business! 30 Years of Experience, Success & Proven Results! * Business Consulting & Strategic Planning * Project Management * Operations Improvement * Marketing & Brand-Building * Contract Publishing & Newsletters * Client Awards Programs
CONTACT ME TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION www.HendricksBCS.com • RH@HendricksBCS.com • 612.306.1707
Support Your Chamber
March 2010
Your business, your priorities
Page 4
TwinWest Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast featuring Governor Tim Pawlenty on February 11, 2010. Photo provided by Posers Photography, LLC.
Adding value to your businessand solving worker shortages page 7 Your business, your priorities: Let’s get down to business Feature story page 9 See you at the Gala!
Page 10
Directions Magazine
Reaching the Summit of Business Together
2010 MeMbership Directory
and business resource guide
b r o o k ly n c e n t e r medicine lake
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Phone: (763) 450-2220 | www.twinwest.com
Help support Chamber publications and network with other Chamber members without ever leaving your office.
Call Mariah 952-846-2042
mariah.hendrickson@ecm-inc.com Annual Street Map
Annual Membership Directory
Yes We DO... ...Offer to YesWhat Weitit Takes DO... ...Offer What Takes to
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• SBA Loans
Banking •• Letters CreditCards BusinessofCredit • Business Credit Cards
• Cash Management
• Letters of Credit
• Lines of Credit
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15705 37th Ave. N. Plymouth, MN 55446 | 763-225-8888 | 800-893-3255 15705 37th 37th Ave. Ave. N. N. Plymouth, Plymouth, MN MN 55446 55446 || 763-225-8888 763-225-8888 || 800-893-3255 800-893-3255 15705