the chamber ADVANTAGE 1W W W . R O C H E S T E R M N C H A M B E R . C O M

what’sINSIDE:Meet the talented individuals who work so tirelessly

for you, the members.

featured

the chamber J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 8

A PUBL ICAT ION OF THE

Meet your CHAMBER STAFF 4

A

Truth in Taxation

What is LGR?8 13 15Meet the new VP of

Workforce Development

the chamber ADVANTAGE

februarySAVE THE DATES

Visit the Chamber’s event calendar to stay up-to-date on the latest events and upcoming monthly round tables.

REGISTER ONLINE AT www.RochesterMNChamber.com

FEB 1ST Chamber Annual Member Celebration 5:30pm - 10:30pm | Mayo Civic Center

FEB 2ND AM Espresso 7:30am - 9:00amBear Creek Services | 3108 Hwy 52 N

FEB 15TH Business After Hours 5:00pm - 7:00pmPower Partner MN | 9 80th St SE

the chamber ADVANTAGE

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

2017-2018 chamber board

OFFICERSChair of the Board Lisa Clarke, DMC EDA

Chair-Elect Greg House, House Chevrolet Co.

TreasurerMike Busch, Paramark Corp.

SecretaryMark Carlson, IBM Corporation

Chamber PresidentKathleen Harrington

Aaron Benike*, Benike Construction

Emily Benner*, Preventice

Audrey Betcher, Individual Membership

Dr. Lori Carrell, University of Minnesota Rochester

Leon Clark, Mayo Clinic

Katie Engleman, McNeilus Companies

Sue Foster, Cardinal of Minnesota, LTD.Wade Goodenberger, CRW architecture + design group

Greg Griffiths, Dunlap & Seeger, P.A.

Lizzy Haywood, People’s Food Cooperative

Kevin Higgins, Olmsted Medical Center

Jenny Hosfeld*,Think Mutual Bank

James Kelly, Construction Partnership, Inc.

Samuel Kwainoe, Farmers Insurance

Matt Morehead, Carlson Capital Management

Michael Muñoz, Rochester Public Schools

Nate Nordstrom, BrandHoot

Joselyn Raymundo, Rochester Home Infusion

John Reed*, Rochester Airport Co.Myron Salz*, Centerstone Plaza Hotel Soldiers FieldGary W. Smith, Rochester Area Economic Development, Inc.

Rolf Thompson, National Eagle Center

*Denotes at large members of the Executive Committee

2017-2018 chamber board

MEMBERS

Paula HofstadFinance Coordinatorphofstad@rochestermnchamber.com507-424-5661

Kaylie HuntleyWorkforce Development Managerkhuntley@rochestermnchamber.com507-424-5678

Jenny KarowReceptionistjkarow@rochestermnchamber.com507-288-1122

Mike SchnellGovernment Affairs Managermschnell@rochestermnchamber.com507-424-5666

Melanie HoppenworthVice President of Finance & Administrationmhoppenworth@rochestermnchamber.com507-424-5699

Kathleen HarringtonPresidentkharrington@rochestermnchamber.com507-288-1122

Cindy DunbarExecutive Assistantcdunbar@rochestermnchamber.com507-424-5677

Matt BissonetteVice President of Workforce Developmentmbissonette@rochestermnchamber.com507-424-5683

Sam GillWorkforce Development Coordinatorsgill@rochestermnchamber.com507-424-5687

Marci NagelMember Services Coordinatormnagel@rochestermnchamber.com507-424-5662

Paul RichardsonVice President of Development & Operationsprichardson@rochestermnchamber.com507-424-5663

chamber

STAFF

EVENTS:upcoming

To register online and to learn more about these events, as well as events scheduled throughout the year, call 507-288-1122 or visitwww.RochesterMNChamber.com/events.

fridayJAN 5TH AM Espresso 7:30am - 9:00am

Fairway Outdoor Advertising | 3185 42nd St NWAM Espresso is a convenient way to network at a member’s place of business while enjoying coffee and continental breakfast.

platinumSPONSOR:

platinumSPONSOR:

goldSPONSOR:

seriesSPONSOR:

co-hostSPONSORS:

silverSPONSORS:

sessionSPONSOR:

mondayJAN 15TH Dr. MLK, Jr. Breakfast 8:00am - 10:00am

Mayo Civic Center Exhibit Hall | 30 Civic Center Dr SE23rd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We Have a Dream Breakfast by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Diversity Council and the NAACP.

thursdayJAN 18TH Business After Hours 5:00pm - 7:00pm

Cambria Gallery | 400 S Broadway #105This premier monthly networking event brings hundreds of business people together for networking, door prizes, hors d’oeuvres and refreshments.

hostSPONSOR:

fridayJAN 19TH 2018 Legislative Preview 11:30am - 1:00pm

DoubleTree by Hilton | 150 S BroadwayA panel of State leaders discuss issues they are likely to tackle in the 2018 Legislative Session and how they plan to move our state forward.

The Chamber welcomes you to get involved in our monthly round tables. All members of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce are welcome to attend.

NON PROFIT ROUND TABLE • WOMEN’S ROUND TABLE

VISIT THE CHAMBER EVENT CALENDAR FOR MORE EVENTS AND UPCOMING MONTHLY ROUND TABLES. REGISTER AT WWW.ROCHESTERMNCHAMBER.COM/EVENTS/CALENDAR!

CHECK OUT OUR CHAMBER ROUND TABLES

These eventsare possibleTHANKS

to ourSPONSORS

CALENDARmark your

chamber

OFFICE HOURS:Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm

Chamber office is closed on legal holidays.

The Jaguar Communications Video Conference Center is available to Chamber Members by request pending availability. To request and book usage, contact Receptionist Jenny Karow.

Contact Finance Coordinator Paula Hofstad with any billing inquiries.

the chamber’s

MISSION:To Lead, Inform, Advocate, and Advance business interests for members; to promote a healthy community and a growing economy.

January 2018 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com 2 3

4 January 2018 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com the chamber ADVANTAGE 5

SPOTLIGHTfeature

CHAMBER STAFF

KATHLEEN HARRINGTON

Interim President

KAYLIE HUNTLEYWorkforce Development Manager

JENNY KAROWReceptionist

CINDY DUNBARExecutive Assistant

MELANIE HOPPENWORTHVice President of

Finance & Administration

MATT BISSONETTE

SAM GILL

PAULA HOFSTAD

MARCI NAGELMIKE SCHNELL

PAUL RICHARDSON

Vice President of Workforce Development

Workforce Development Coordinator

Finance Coordinator

Member Services CoordinatorGovernment Affairs Manager

Vice President of Development & Operations

The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce is an organization run by a dedicated, passionate and service-oriented team of professionals. When they are not hard at work for the business community in our region, they each have unique hobbies, past times, and motivations that contribute to their talent and success. The following brief snapshots are intended to better introduce those talented individuals to the members for whom they work so tirelessly.

Kathleen Harrington grew up and spent

time out East, first in New York and then in Washington, D.C. She has a daughter, a son-in-law and two granddogs - Beast

and Gus. She enjoys going to the theatre and binge-watching Netflix.

As an army brat, Kaylie has lived all over the United States, moving to Rochester a year ago to be with her husband, who is a third year medical student at Mayo Clinic. She loves to read and cook delicious foods when she is not chasing her two dogs, Wiley and Ember.

Jenny has been married to her husband Greg for 40 years. Together they have three sons and daughters-in-law and eight grandchildren. In addition to attending nostalgic rock concerts with Greg, Jenny is passionate about baking, singing, traveling and spending time with family. If you’re an avid watcher of Wheel of Fortune, be on the look out for Jenny–it’s her dream to be a contestant one day!

Cindy was born 8,468 miles from Rochester in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. She grew up in California and has been a Minnesota resident for 22 years. Cindy is married with two sons and a long–haired dachshund named Madi. She enjoys reading, cooking, singing in the church choir, and getting together with family.

Melanie has been married to her husband, Paul, for 34 for years. They have two children, one granddaughter, an American Saddle Horse (Verdi), two miniature Dachshunds (Willow and Ryker) and one kitten (Sasha). Something little known about the Chamber’s Vice President of Finance and Administration is that she possesses a first degree black belt in Taekwondo, reflecting her attention to detail, good memory and determination.

Matt Bissonette was born in Stewartville and has spent the better part of his life living and working in Minnesota. He is married to Cheryl and together they have three children and one dog. When Matt is not at work, he enjoys experiencing and participating in the arts, including theater, music and creative.

Born and raised in Northfield, MN, Sam is an avid golfer, fan of Harry

Truman and loves to make his own compound gin! Newly married, Sam and his wife, Chloe, love to walk their dog though Whitewater State Park, go on excursions to area vineyards and work on their new house.

When she is not baking her famous buns for her family and husband of 43 years, Paula loves

playing bean bags, going for walks and hanging out with her busy grandchildren. Not surprisingly, as Finance Coordinator, Paula loves numbers – especially when they all balance!

Marci has two sons, one grandson and another

on the way! In addition to volunteering for Camp Companion, Marci enjoys biking, gardening, do-it-yourself projects and watching hockey. As one of the newer members of the Chamber staff, Marci is excited to keep herself challenged by not settling when it comes to serving the membership’s needs.

Mike rumbled into Minnesota 13 years ago

as part of the NDSU Bison Alumni herd

and settled in Rochester with his wife and two children ages 7 and 3. Known for his dad skills

and good advice, Mike is excited to revitalize the Government Affairs pillar.

Paul Richardson moved to Minnesota three years ago after spending the

majority of his life in the Greater Phoenix area. He is married to Gayle and they have four adult children and three grandchildren. When they aren’t spending time with family, Paul and Gayle enjoy exploring Minnesota, visiting historic sites and state parks.

SPOTLIGHTfeaturemeet your

6 January 2018 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com

THANKS TO THIS MONTH’S “NON-PROFIT IN FOCUS” SPONSOR:

ARTICLESexpert

Distracted driving continues to be a topic in the media. We have all heard heartbreaking stories of auto accidents from distracted driving. The biggest culprit: Cell phones.

The National Safety Council reports an estimated 28% of car crashes involve cell phone use at the time of the crash. A study by the University of Minnesota found that talking on a cell phone while driving impairs ability more than driving while intoxicated.

Even business owners who do not own vehicles need to be concerned about distracted driving. They can be pulled into a lawsuit and held responsible for damages even if the employee is driving their own vehicle. All business owners must take a proactive approach to distracted driving.

Contributed by Mark Hayford, North Risk Partners, C.O. Brown Division

CREATING SAFER ROADS BY

ELIMINATINGDISTRACTED DRIVING

At Home Federal, we believe great relationships can help you succeed in life personally and professionally, especially when it comes to your organization’s banking needs. Here are 3 reasons why a great

relationship with your banker will benefit your non-profit organization:

1. A Partner for Your Passion As a non-profit, you must be passion-driven instead of profit-driven, and your banker should share that same sentiment. A great relationship with your business banker means you have a partner that works

with you long-term, and are just as passionate about your organization’s success as you are.

2. Maximize Your Funds for Your Cause When it comes to non-profit organizations, we all know that every dollar counts – a dollar is

a life affected or a need being fulfilled. If you have a great relationship with your banker, they should be able to help find creative solutions to maximize your organization’s funds, allowing

you to make more of a difference year after year.

3. Access to Industry Experience Non-profit organizations operate differently than for-profit businesses. By choosing to have a

relationship with a business banker who specializes in non-profit banking (like Home Federal’s Doug Amundson) you’ll have the advantage of working with someone who genuinely cares and can offer

knowledgeable advice from their experience working with other non-profits in similar situations.

YOUR NON-PROFIT SHOULD BE IN A RELATIONSHIP WITH ITS BUSINESS BANKER

Contributed by Joe Langel, Senior Vice President and Director of Business Banking at Home Federal

Joe Langel507.280.3444

joe.langel@hfsb.com

Member FDICJustCallHome.com

See why we at Home Federal feel relationship banking is the best form of banking. Contact our non-profit expert, Doug Amundson,

to get your banking relationship started.

Doug Amundson 507.252.7168 douga@hfsb.com

Protecting the business from a costly lawsuit is not the only reason to take an active role regarding distracted driving. Business owners are in a unique position to truly make a difference to help reduce distracted driving accidents by providing employees with training regarding distracted driving. It’s recommended that employee safety manuals include a written policy that prohibits cell phone usage while driving. A policy can improve awareness and reduce distracted driving, and it may also lead the employee to take seriously the need to avoid distracted driving outside of work hours. In short, communication and leadership at work can assist in creating safer roads for everyone.

28%AN ESTIMATED

OF CAR

INVOLVECAR CRASHES

CELL PHONE

USE

EVERYTHING eaglesIN FOCUS

non-profit

Article contributed by Rolf ThompsonA NATIONAL TREASURE IN SE MINNESOTA

The National Eagle Center is a world class Minnesota attraction. Home to rescued bald and golden eagles, the National Eagle Center experience is an engaging environmental programming, interactive exhibits and live eagles up close and personal. Every day at the National Eagle Center people from all over the world make meaningful connections to eagles in nature, history, and cultures. School children, families, tour groups, and US veterans describe their visits as inspiring and unforgettable. Many patients visiting the Mayo Clinic say a trip to the National Eagle Center is a highlight of their time in the area. THE NATIONAL EAGLE CENTER HAS RECEIVED NUMEROUS NATIONAL ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITION INCLUDING:

• #1 Family Attraction Worth Traveling For in Minnesota - Flipkey by TripAdvisor

• A Top Minnesota Attraction (#2) - USA Today Readers’ Choice

• Certificate of Excellence - TripAdvisor

THE NATIONAL EAGLE CENTER IS AN ECONOMIC DRIVER FOR THE WABASHA COMMUNITY AND SOUTHEAST MINNESOTA:

• Over 83,000 annual visitors from 50 states and more than 115 countries around the world.

• Top 6% of museums in Minnesota by annual attendance.

• Visitors spend over $2.8 million in Wabasha and the region annually.

• Generates over $1.2 million in revenues, employs 25 people, receives no public subsidy.

TO MEET INCREASING DEMAND FOR ITS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING AND THE NEED FOR MORE EXHIBIT SPACE, THE NATIONAL EAGLE CENTER IS PLANNING A MAJOR EXPANSION TO INCLUDE:

• Renovation and expansion of four historic downtown buildings,

• An addition to the current building,• An outdoor amphitheater and program spaces,• An avian care facility in another location in Wabasha.

The National Eagle Center expects the $17 million expansion will be funded by private philanthropy via a capital campaign, and by State of Minnesota bonding, which will be considered during the 2018 Legislative session.

To find out more and to donate, visit the National Eagle Center online at www.nationaleaglecenter.org

WHAT IS IT LIKE TO BE NOSE-TO-BEAK WITH A BALD EAGLE? AT THE NATIONAL EAGLE CENTER IN WABASHA, VISITOR’S EXPERIENCE IT EVERY DAY!

the chamber ADVANTAGE 9

January 2018 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com the chamber ADVANTAGE8 9the chamber ADVANTAGE8 9January 2018 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com

JOIN US JANUARY 19TH

FOR THE ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE PREVIEW

Join your fellow Chamber members on January 19th for our annual preview of the state legislative session. This short legislative session is sure to be intense with the Governor’s race starting and the legislature still unfunded. There are many issues to address in this short session to keep us moving forward. The 2018 Legislative Preview will feature members of House and Senate leadership. Topics will include ongoing transportation funding, including money for Highway 14, the statewide business property tax, and our local bonding priorities. READY TO LEARN MORE?Contact Government Affairs Manager Mike Schnell at 507-424-5666 or by email: mschnell@rochestermnchamber.com. Register by calling 507-288-1122 or online at www.RochesterMNChamber.com/events.

AFFAIRS & ADVOCACYgovernment

Kathleen Harrington, Interim President of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce testified at the Rochester City Council and Olmsted County Board of Commissioners’ Truth in Taxation hearings earlier this month.

SMALL BUSINESSES CREATE JOBS AND NEED RELIEFCity and County leaders appeared to appreciate the offer of assistance. Her testimony opened with a reminder of the large number of small businesses in the Chamber.

• Over half of the Chamber members, 840 businesses, have fewer than 10 employees.

• Only 106 members have more than 50 employees.

Harrington continued by pointing out that small business owners and entrepreneurs:

• Manage risk every day.• Create jobs and drive economic growth and meet

payrolls. They must keep the promises they have made to their employees.

• Support our community• Succeed because they constantly innovate and

increase value for their customers.

Harrington stated, “Businesses succeed while managing external economic forces beyond their control, including tax increases. Being successful requires courage, ingenuity, and much trial and error.”

SPEAKING ATtruth in taxationINTERIM PRESIDENT, KATHLEEN HARRINGTON SPEAKS ON BEHALF OF SMALL BUSINESSES WITH ENCOURAGING RESULTS

THE CHAMBER REQUESTS EARLY ENGAGEMENT IN THE BUDGET PROCESSWhile applauding the City’s effort to increase visibility into the budget process, the Chamber made a specific request for:

• Engagement earlier in the process at the departmental levels during budget discussion to offer input on priorities.

• Collaboration with local government in its advocacy efforts against unfunded mandates and hidden costs from the state and federal governments, which increase the costs of local government.

She reiterated that the voice of small business can be helpful in amplifying local government’s messages in St. Paul and Washington, D.C.

Both City and County officials appeared to welcome these specific offers. THE CHAMBER’S FINAL ASKThe Chamber urged elected officials to do all they can to seek greater efficiency in government operations and spending to keep increases in the property tax levy as low as possible. Harrington also urged them to be mindful of the collective tax impact on small business.

Harrington asked that our leaders aggressively strive to achieve greater symmetry between growth in local taxes and economic growth.

Harrington concluded her testimony with, “Consistently facing property tax levies that are higher than business can realistically grow revenue is a dangerous formula.” The Chamber will follow this issue carefully and set up a process for engagement in the budget development process early in the budget development cycle. Have questions, or want to get involved? Contact Mike Schnell, Government Affairs Manager at mschnell@rochestermnchamber.com or 507-424-5666.

Consistently facing property tax levies that are higher than businesses can realistically

grow revenue is a DANGEROUS FORMULA.CHAMBER GOALS:

12

To communicate that the trend in property tax levy increases is not sustainable.

To offer technical assistance and advocacy support to the City and County.

11the chamber ADVANTAGE10

HOTEL EXPANSION!

Ribbon Cuttings & Ground Breakings

SYLVAN LEARNING CENTER

HAWKINS ASH CPAS

ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

ASSOCIATED BANK PRIVATE CLIENT SERVICES

CHUCK & DON’S PET FOOD AND SUPPLIES

PASQUALE’S NEIGHBORHOOD PIZZERIA

TREASURE ISLAND RESORT & CASINO

(608) 787-4500 | www.altra.org

(507) 285-2626 | www.associatedbank.com

(507) 424-1233 | www.hawkinsashcpas.com

(507) 424-7800 | www.pnpizza.com

(800) 222-7077 | www.ticasino.com

YOGA TRIBE

(507) 322-5052 | www.chuckanddons.com

(507) 258-6036 | www.sylvanlearning.com

www.yogatribemn.com

NEW LOCATION!

NEW BUSINESS!

GROUNDBREAKING!

NEW BUSINESS!NEW LOCATION!

MAJOR RENOVATION!

GRAND OPENING OF THE BOROUGHS!

January 2018

13the chamber ADVANTAGE12 January 2018 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com

HIS EXPERIENCE and BACKGROUND allows him to...IMMEDIATELY START

SERVING OUR MEMBERS.

AT-A-GLANCE

Matt’s #SPOTSinROCH

1985

1988

1990

2000

2012

2017

Matt’s Journey to the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce and Foundation is excited to announce that Matt Bissonette has been named the Vice President of Workforce Development. Responsible for overseeing the Chamber’s Workforce Development initiatives such as the STEAM Summit, Leadership Greater Rochester and Hubsource, Bissonette brings a new, strategic perspective that has been honed over a career that has spanned jobs in both the public and private sectors. “Matt’s hiring presents the Chamber with a wonderful opportunity to grow our public–private partnerships,” said Kathleen Harrington, Interim President of the Chamber. “His experience and background allows him to hit the ground running and immediately start serving our members.”

After graduating from Stewartville High School, Matt joins the United States Army.

Following a three year tenure in the Army, Matt returns to Southeast MN, attends RCTC & works at St. Paul Clothiers in Apache Mall.

Seeking warmer weather, Matt and his wife Cheryl pack up and move to Florida. He spends the next ten years working for a variety of companies including a building products supplier and Disney.

Following a move back to Owatonna, MN, Matt works for Jostens before serving as the Executive Pastor for Bethel Church. Eventually, he starts his own organizational consulting business.

Matt receives his EdD in Career & Technical Education and serves as the Dean of Business & Technology, Trade & Industry, Health & Wellness for Riverland College in Austin, MN.

The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce names Matt as the Vice President of Workforce Development.

MEETMatt BissonetteNEW VICE PRESIDENT OF WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

One of Matt’s favorite locations in Rochester is Soldiers Memorial Field & Monument because it represents Rochester’s commitment to honoring the service and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform.

Check out a few of his favorite places to visit in the city!

Matt is excited to try out the variety of different restaurant options available in the region. “If every restaurant is as delicious as Pasquale’s – which I only recently was able to enjoy– I am sure in for a treat!”

Excited to see what’s in store for this historic space, Matt remembers taking day trips into Rochester and watching movies at the Chateau Theater. “Those twinkly lights in the ceiling were so magical to me as child.”

Knowing that Rochester is full of wonderful community assets including the Rochester Civic Theatre, Matt says “I cannot wait to start bringing my family to various shows and productions at the Theatre!”

2018 CHAMBER ANNUAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION& after party

Save the Date

whenwhere

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1st 5:30 PM - 10:30 PM

GRAND BALLROOM, MAYO CIVIC CENTER

Don’t Miss Out!Find more information on the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce’s website:

www.RochesterMNChamber.com

After Party Celebrate at the funkiest after party in town with Minnesota 97.5 and music by Rochester’s new favorite band, KnuFunK!

FIRST

THEN

FINALLY

Kickoff Start the evening off right with a celebration reception

Dinner & Awards Enjoy a delicious dinner by Pinnacle Catering and mouth-watering desserts from Top Tier Delights

DEVELOPMENT & EDUCATION

30 GRADUATED CLASSES

MORE THAN

950 ALUMNI

The Chamber has a long standing commitment to developing leaders in this community. For the past 32 years, the LGR program has been a great opportunity for employers to provide leadership development and training opportunities for their employees and our community.

15

workforce

Email Kaylie Huntley at khuntley@rochestermnchamber.com to ensure you’re on the list or for other ways to engage.

ALREADY AN ALUM?

Here are three easy ways to engage with fellow Leadership

Greater Rochester alumni. 1 2 3“LIKE”the LGR

Facebook PageLGR Alumni

Pre-Business After Hours Events

to Receive LGR Alumni Emails

ATTEND SIGN UP

COMMUNITY IMPACT PROJECTS

IMMERSE

LEAVE A

WHAT IS LGR?

Leadership Greater Rochester (LGR) is a great opportunity for employers to support leadership development for their employees.

Applications for the 2018-19 class of Leadership Greater Rochester will open February 5th.

For more information on the program and how to apply, visit rochestermnchamber.com/lgr-application

yourself

legacy

10 MONTHS

30 COMMUNITY LEADERS

1 COMMUNITY IMPACT PROJECT

IMMEASURABLE GROWTH

(11 SESSIONS)

Leadership Greater Rochester, or LGR, is a comprehensive ten-month leadership development program designed to encourage individual responsibility for taking an active leadership role in the future vitality for the greater Rochester area.

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.BREAKFAST

THE 23rd ANNUAL

PRESENTED BY:

Please contact the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce at (507)288-1122 for more information on how to get tickets.

We Have a Dream

15the chamber ADVANTAGEJanuary 2018 14

MAYO CIVIC CENTERMONDAY, JANUARY 15TH 8:00AM - 10:00AM

January 2018 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com the chamber ADVANTAGE16 17

SUBMIT A BUSINESS NEWS ITEMDo you have business news you’d like to share that you can pare down to 70 words? Email your news item to the Chamber at chamber@rochestermnchamber.com. Submission deadline is the 10th of the month prior to month of publication and are included as space permits. You can also include a photo as a part of the submission. Post a full press release on the Chamber website by logging into the Membership Information Center.

THE ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE has named Matt Bissonette the Vice President of Workforce Development. Bissonette will be responsible for leading the Chamber’s workforce development strategic planning and programming. He will be focused on meeting the members workforce training, recruitment, and retention needs. “Matt’s hiring presents the Chamber with a wonderful opportunity to grow our public–private partnerships,” said Kathleen Harrington, Interim President of the Chamber.

THE POST-BULLETIN welcomes Joe Ahlquist to the photography staff, where he will document life in the Rochester area. Ahlquist is a 2013 graduate of Winona State and previously worked as a visual journalist with the Sioux Falls Argus Leader. Ahlquist is excited to be back in Southeast Minnesota, telling stories of area residents with photos.

ABC 6 NEWS welcomes, Ron Hanson to the team as an Account Executive. Previously, Hanson was with the Post-Bulletin as a Senior Digital Media Consultant. With over 33 years in sales, marketing, digital and promotions experience in Rochester, ABC 6 News / KAALTV.com is excited to utilize his expertise to help businesses in the Rochester area with their Broadcast & Digital marketing efforts.

ROCHESTER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Marketing & Communications Manager, Tiana Rossow, has been named to the Airport Business Magazine Top 40 Under 40 list. The list showcases the top talent and leading thinkers in the aviation industry who are driving success and innovations for the future.“The Top 40 Under 40” represents the remarkable young professionals in the aviation industry, transforming how North America moves,” said Joe Petrie, Editor-in-Chief of Airport Business magazine.

SOUTHEAST SERVICE COOPERATIVE welcomes Jodi Dettmann as a Program Manager. In her role, Jodi supports program and service outreach and communications. She comes to SSC from the world of higher education, most recently as the Assistant Director of Admissions for Augsburg University. Jodi’s many connections and relationships will complement her work for SSC. A long-time resident of Rochester, Jodi and her husband Dave are the parents of two young daughters.

THINK MUTUAL BANK has named Amanda Keller Vice President of Customer Support Center. Keller will oversee the bank’s Customer Support Center and advance business strategies that focus on meeting customer needs. Prior to this role, Keller was the bank’s Assistant Vice President of Customer Support Center. “Amanda brings a wide range of experience working directly with Think’s customers,” said Jenny Hosfeld, Senior VP of Community Banking. “Her leadership of the Customer Support Center will help Think further advance the customer experience over the phone.”

THINK MUTUAL BANK is proud to announce that Jenny Hosfeld, Senior VP of Community Banking, has been named a 2017 Top Women in Finance honoree. The Top Women in Finance award recognizes the outstanding contributions and dedication of women to their profession, their communities, and society at large. Hosfeld has 24 years of banking experience and has been with Think since 2006. She is currently responsible for overseeing the bank’s consumer and business banking areas in both Rochester and the Twin Cities.

ABC 6 NEWS welcomes Canadian Hannah Tiede, who traveled over 2,000 miles to join the team, as a weekday reporter. Tiede began her career at Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, studying radio and TV programming. She then worked as a reporter and anchor in Lloydminster, Alberta, before transferring to CKPG-TV in Prince George, British Columbia. With her experiences in western Canadian Provinces, ABC 6 News is thrilled to welcome Tiede to Rochester, MN.

EO JOHNSON BUSINESS TECHNOLOGIES was recognized at the 2017 Marketplace Governor’s Awards, winning the 2017 Wisconsin Women Business Enterprise Award - Outstanding Large Business. The event took place Thursday, December 14th at the Potawatomi Hotel & Event Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The 2017 Marketplace Governor’s Awards recognize Wisconsin businesses owned by minorities, women and service-disabled veterans. Over 400 business applied for the awards and 21 finalists were chosen.

WEICHERT, REALTORS® – JEWSON PROPERTIES is proud to announce that Jay Jewson has been named President of the Southeast Minnesota REALTORS (SEMR) board of directors in Rochester, MN. Jewson will be responsible for providing leadership and direction for the largest professional association of licensed real estate agents in Southeast Minnesota during his term as president, which runs through 2018. He has been a member of SEMR since 1996 and served on the association’s board of directors in several leadership positions, including treasurer and most recently, president-elect.

NEWSREELNEWSREELlocallocal

HAWKINS ASH CPAS has acquired the Rochester tax and audit practice of Thomas Cummings, CPA. The acquisition was effective Dec. 1, 2017.Thomas Cummings, CPA, has joined Hawkins Ash CPAs as a Senior Manager and will continue to work with his clients, ensuring a successful transition. He will work from the Rochester office of Hawkins Ash CPAs at 3720 Nottingham Dr. NW, Rochester, MN 55901, and he can be reached at 507.424.1233

THINK MUTUAL BANK has named Therese White Vice President of Employee Services. In this role, White will oversee employee recruitment and onboarding, benefits, compensation, and learning and development along with the bank’s reception and mail staff. Prior to this role, White was the bank’s Employee Services Manager.White has been with Think for 18 years. She is a certified Senior Professional in Human Resources and is active in the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Leadership Development (WILD) initiative and the bank’s Women In Leadership strategy.

18 January 2018 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com the chamber ADVANTAGE 19

Chamber Advantage USPS 446-900 is published monthly by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce at 220 S Broadway Ste 100 | Rochester, MN 55904 | Phone: 507-288-1122Issue #2 Volume #10 Periodical Postage paid at Rochester, Minnesota | Annual Subscription: $20 (free to Chamber members) | Lisa Clarke, Chair of the Board | Editor Sheryl BarlowPrinted by Johnson Printing | Postmaster: Send address changes to: Chamber Advantage, 220 S Broadway Ste 100, Rochester, MN 55904 or email: chamber@rochestermnchamber.com

NEW MEMBERS:welcome to our

RENEWING MEMBERS:thank you to our

DID YOU KNOW the Chamber website averages

20,000 PAGE VIEWS monthly from

8,000 UNIQUE VISITORS?

People visiting this site are BUSINESS LEADERS, from YOUNG PROFESSIONALS to CEO’S, those who live here and those considering a move to the area. Visitors on this site are the PEOPLE YOU WANT to do business with! Find out how you can HEIGHTEN YOUR WEB PRESENCE by contacting the Chamber at 507-288-1122 or by email at chamber@rochestermnchamber.com.

AND BECOME A MEMBER OF THE ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE!

JOIN OVER 1,500 AREA BUSINESSES

Send your new member referrals to the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce at chamber@rochestermnchamber.com or call 507-288-1122.

AARPApollo Music GroupArnold's Supply & Kleenit CompanyAtlas Insurance Brokers, LLCBob's Construction, Inc.Brentwood Inn and SuitesC to Shining C Commercial CleaningCharter CommunicationsCivic League Day NurseryDreams are Forever Travel, LLCEagle Bluff Environmental Learning CenterH & R Block, Inc. - NorthH&R Block - ChatfieldH&R Block - Market PlaceH&R Block - TJ Maxx PlazaHair Studio 52 & Day SpaHammell, KevinHighland Meadows Counseling Center, INCHomewood Suites by HiltonJames Krom Natural ImagesJill Bailey/Independent Marketing ConsultantJust One Management Consultant FirmKeefe Accounting Powered by H&R Block

Kemps LLCKinney Creek BreweryLa Quinta Inn & SuitesLasker JewelersMed City BrewingMedCity DoulasN2 PublishingO'Brien & Wolf, L.L.P. PossAbilities of Southern MNr!ah Hair Studio, Inc.Rooster's Barn & Grill Inc.Schmidt Goodman Office ProductsSerenity House Network LLCStar Transportation L.L.C.The DoggeryTreasure Island Resort & CasinoU.S. Bancorp Investments, Inc.U.S. Bank - 4th St. OfficeU.S. Bank - Center Place OfficeU.S. Bank - East Circle Dr. OfficeU.S. Bank Home MortgageU.S. Bank West Circle Dr OfficeUNRAVELED Escape RoomVanDerHeyden Law Office P.A. Words Players Theater

FAIRWAY INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE CORPORATIONKris Heichel | (507) 252-3060www.yourwaymortgage.com

LOUCKSSusanne Miller | (507) 951-4406www.loucksinc.com

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WISHING YOU A SUCCESSFUL & PROSPEROUS 2018!

FROM

Thank you all for the support you provide to our programs through your membership and sponsorship.

FINISHED WITH THE ADVANTAGE? PASS IT ON!

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PAIDRochester, MN

ROUTE AROUND YOUR OFFICEGet your money’s worth from your Chamber investment. Every employee in your firm is a member of the Chamber.

Please route to:

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