Advantage Magazine | June 2026

A ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATION

JUNE 2026

TABLE OF CONTENTS

June 2026 Advantage Magazine

What’s Inside

FEATURE Legacy Leadership in Action

FEATURE What’s New & Next in the Rochester Area

CEO PROFILE Brent Beck, All Craft Exteriors

MEET THE MEMBER Renning's Flowers

CHAMBER NEWS • Events • Sponsorship Opportunities for 2027 • Empowering Young Talent • Educator Industry Experience • Congratulations Leadership Greater Rochester Class of 2026

COMMUNITY NEWS • Olmsted Medical Center Named to the Forbes Top Hospitals 2026 • Unemployment Rate Remained Steady in March • 2026 Best Places to Work Announced • Distinguished Workforce Development Award Honors Career Pathways to Local Healthcare

NEWSREEL New Roles and Celebrations

NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the Chamber

RIBBON CUTTINGS Grand Openings, Anniversaries, New Members, and Other Celebrations

Dream it. Plan it. Achieve it. The Door to Your Financial Dreams

We’ve been supporting financial dreams for over 150 years. Trust our experts on your journey.

Open the door and start your relationship with Merchants Bank today. www.merchantsbank.com/openthedoor

Business | Mortgage | Personal | Wealth Management

Member FDIC

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CHAMBER STAFF & BOARD

June 2026 Advantage Magazine

Chamber Staff

CHAMBER PRESIDENT, Ryan Parsons | 507-288-1122

SENIOR DIRECTOR, MEMBERSHIP & COMMUNICATIONS Kali Aldrich

EVENTS & PROGRAMS DIRECTOR Shannon Gowen

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR Tim Shea

WORKFORCE INITIATIVES & RYT NETWORK DIRECTOR Claire Henneman

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Brady Strickland

MEMBER ENGAGEMENT DIRECTOR Emma Esteb

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & OPERATIONS Michaela Freyler

VICE PRESIDENT, PUBLIC AFFAIRS Jonathon Krull

VICE PRESIDENT, COMMUNICATIONS Sophia van Oss

Chamber Board Officers

CHAIR OF THE BOARD Gwen Stevens People's Energy Cooperative

AT LARGE Scott Eggert Broadway Plaza

TREASURER Kelsey Vaszily Kraus-Anderson Construction

VICE CHAIR Jarett Jones Merchants Bank

SECRETARY Heather Donovan Sterling State Bank

Chamber Board Members

SANTHI ARUNACHALAM Xylo Technologies Inc.

DOUG HOLTAN Mayo Clinic

JENNA OBERNOLTE Short Elliott Hendrickson

DR. JEFFREY BOYD Rochester Community and Technical College

BEN KING Dunlap & Seeger

SYLWIA BUJAK OLIVER 125 LIVE

CHAD LAUNDERVILLE Hy-Vee

DR. ALLISA SONG Nanodropper

ADAM DICKINSON IBM

TOM LEIMER Knutson Construction

KRISTY SUTTON Olmsted Medical Center

WADE FENSKE Kreofsky Building Supplies

OMAR NUR Somali American Social Services Association

ULISES GONZALEZ Baser Freight

Rochester-area businesses are empowered to succeed in a diverse and collaborative climate. VISION

The Chamber promotes business success which supports a thriving community. MISSION

ADVERTISING INFORMATION Contact Emma Esteb at eesteb@rochestermnchamber.com

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LEGACY LEADERSHIP IN ACTION

Feature

Legacy Leadership in Action

How Leadership Greater Rochester is Shaping the Community’s Future

WRITTEN BY: MAURA KELLER

In the dynamic and growing Rochester region, leadership is not just about professional advancement, it's about service, collaboration, and long-term impact. For nearly four decades, Leadership Greater Rochester (LGR) has served as a cornerstone program for cultivating leaders who are deeply connected to the community and committed to its future. Since its inception in 1987, Leadership Greater Rochester has been a comprehensive, 10-month leadership development program designed to prepare emerging and established professionals for greater civic and community engagement. Created by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, the program's mission is to develop informed, connected leaders who will contribute to the long-term vitality of the greater Rochester area. Participants gain a deep understanding of the region through a robust curriculum that explores economic development, workforce trends, healthcare, the arts, sustainability, and more. Behind-the-scenes tours, expert-led discussions, and direct interaction with community leaders provide a level of insight that few programs can match. Through immersive learning experiences and hands-on projects, LGR equips participants with the tools, insights, and relationships needed to lead effectively. At the heart of the program lies a defining feature: the Community Impact Project (CIP) , where leadership theory meets real-world application.

Each year, participants collaborate to identify a pressing community need and design a project that addresses it in a meaningful and sustainable way. The CIP challenges participants to apply their leadership skills in a real-world setting – assessing data, engaging stakeholders, building partnerships, and executing a project that balances creativity with practicality. As Jonathon Krull, Vice President of Public Affairs at the Chamber, explains, “No two CIPs are alike, but each must be desirable, doable, scalable, and sustainable. Some projects come to fruition within the LGR year, while others take time to be fully realized. What matters most is the experience, how participants challenge themselves and grow as leaders, while working to make a positive impact in the community.” Over the years, LGR cohorts have tackled a wide range of initiatives, from recreational spaces and wellness programs to literacy and communication tools, each reflecting the evolving needs of the Rochester community. The following examples illustrate how these community impact projects come to life, spotlighting efforts such as the Communications Stations, Elevate Wellness, the Thrive Outside Winter Activities Trailer, and the Rochester Mini Library Program.

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LEGACY LEADERSHIP IN ACTION

Feature

Community Impact Projects

COMMUNICATION STATIONS

CLASS OF 2024

These stations are positioned near play areas to assist them in communicating their name, needs, wants, and feelings to their peers, teachers, and other authority figures.” The impact has been both immediate and deeply personal. Steve Smith of Mayo Clinic recalled a powerful moment when a child independently used one of the stations to communicate a desire to see hawks at a park – demonstrating how the stations enable meaningful interaction without adult prompting. The project continues to expand, with installations across Rochester Public Schools, local parks, and surrounding communities. For participants, the experience reinforced a core leadership lesson. “When leaders create something tangible, people step forward,” Smith said. “It comes from taking action and building together around a shared vision.”

The Communication Stations project addresses a critical yet often overlooked barrier to inclusion: the ability to communicate effectively in public spaces. Through research and community engagement, the cohort identified that one in four adolescents struggles with communication due to factors such as hearing loss, speech challenges, language barriers, or developmental differences. To address this need, the team designed and installed Communication Station signs in parks, playgrounds, and schools across the region. These visual boards feature symbols, images, and prompts that allow children to express their needs, emotions, and ideas – whether asking for help, initiating play, or responding in an emergency. Becca Sell of Think Bank explained, “A fantastic way to help children feel safe, connected, and confident while playing outside is with Communication Station signs.

12 STATIONS INSTALLED

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LEGACY LEADERSHIP IN ACTION

Feature

14 MEDALLIONS INSTALLED

ELEVATE WELLNESS

CLASS OF 2025

Beyond wellness, the project supports downtown vitality by drawing families and visitors into the skyway system, increasing foot traffic for local businesses. Crystal Stockdale of Chick-fil-A Rochester shared how navigating the skyways with her young children highlighted an opportunity to create something more interactive. “Making a fun, interactive pathway for families has been a very rewarding project,” she said. Community engagement has been consistent, with families and visitors embracing the installations year- round – especially during colder months. The project demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform everyday infrastructure into a space that fosters both movement and connection. From a leadership perspective, Elevate Wellness emphasized adaptability and collaboration. “Leadership was really about showing up, finding ways to contribute based on your strengths, and sticking with it,” Morin said.

The Elevate Wellness project reimagines how public spaces can promote physical activity, particularly in a city where long winters can limit outdoor movement. Recognizing the need for accessible and engaging options, the cohort transformed Rochester's downtown skyway and subway system into an interactive activity pathway. The pathway incorporates creative elements such as ball runs, murals, and a medallion hunt, encouraging users to move from one installation to another. By blending play, art, and exploration, the design makes physical activity feel less like a task and more like an engaging experience. Kelli Morin of IBM described the vision: “Our hope was that people would accumulate physical movement by traveling to the different elements of the activity path without it feeling like a chore.”

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LEGACY LEADERSHIP IN ACTION

Feature

CLASS OF 2022

THRIVE OUTSIDE WINTER ACTIVITY TRAILER The Thrive Outside Winter Activity Trailer was developed to address one of Minnesota’s most persistent challenges: staying active and connected during long, cold winters. Recognizing that cost and access to equipment can limit participation, the cohort created a mobile solution that brings winter recreation directly to the community. The trailer is stocked with a variety of equipment – including snowshoes, sleds, fort-building materials, and nature observation tools – making it accessible to people of all ages and ability levels. Available for reservation through the city's parks and recreation system, it provides an easy and flexible way for families, schools, and community groups to engage in outdoor activities. Anne Wright of Mayo Clinic explained, “By gathering all the materials people need to get outside and enjoy the best of winter, we felt this would keep people active and remove barriers for those new to these activities.” The project was also shaped by a broader focus on mental health and social connection, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Melissa Johnson of U.S. Bank noted, “The cohort was interested in contributing to wellness around mental health and connectedness… especially coming out of the pandemic.” activities, and family gatherings. By making winter recreation more accessible, the project encourages residents to embrace the season rather than retreat from it – and reminds participants that great leadership is built on persistence, shared vision, and the willingness to meet a community where it is. Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with the trailer used for neighborhood events, school

SERVES UP TO 30 PEOPLE AT A TIME

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LEGACY LEADERSHIP IN ACTION

Feature

CLASS OF 2015

ROCHESTER MINI LIBRARY PROGRAM

The Mini Libraries project represents one of LGR’s most enduring contributions to the community, focusing on literacy as a foundation for long-term success. The 2015 cohort identified a significant gap in access to books, particularly for children in underserved neighborhoods where libraries and bookstores were not easily accessible. In response, the team designed and implemented a network of 40 mini libraries – small, freestanding structures placed in neighborhoods where residents can freely take or share books. The goal was to create barrier-free access to reading materials within walking distance of families’ homes. Kelsey Vaszily of Kraus-Anderson reflected on the scale of the effort: “We installed 40 mini libraries in Rochester, had them built by a cabinet maker, and stocked them with books from our community book drive.” The project extended beyond construction, engaging local businesses, volunteers, and homeowners in a collaborative effort to promote literacy. Host families take ownership of maintaining the libraries, ensuring they remain stocked and accessible. The impact is multifaceted. By increasing access to books, the program supports early literacy development, helps bridge educational gaps, and fosters a culture of reading. It also strengthens neighborhood connections, as residents interact through the simple act of sharing books. Importantly, the project recognizes the broader implications of literacy. Studies show that individuals with higher literacy levels tend to experience better health outcomes and greater economic opportunities. By investing in literacy, the Mini Libraries initiative contributes to the overall well-being of the community. Through this project, participants learned that leadership can take many forms – from organizing logistics and fundraising to building partnerships and inspiring community involvement. The result is a lasting legacy that continues to benefit Rochester residents years after its initial implementation.

40 MINI LIBRARIES INSTALLED

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WHAT’S NEW & NEXT IN THE ROCHESTER AREA

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>>>

What’s New & Next

>>>

in the Rochester Area The RDA’s “Do Business Downtown” initiative is helping entrepreneurs move from online-only operations into physical storefronts. Recent success story Sal Terrae extended its pop-up presence after a strong holiday season. “Filling vacant storefronts enhances the pedestrian experience and strengthens the overall business environment,” Fagan says.

Across Southeast Minnesota, strategic investments and community collaboration are shaping the Rochester region’s future. From downtown revitalization and business expansion to infrastructure upgrades and quality-of- life improvements, each community is building on its unique strengths to create lasting opportunity for residents and businesses alike. Here's a look at what local leaders are most excited about. ROCHESTER: STRENGTHENING THE HEART OF THE CITY Downtown Rochester is evolving as a vibrant hub for commerce, culture, and connection. Shawn Fagan, executive director of the Rochester Downtown Alliance (RDA), says accessibility, entrepreneurship, and programming are driving what's next. The popular seasonal event Thursdays Downtown returns to Peace Plaza and 1st Avenue with a new twist: an RDA- sponsored Youth Booth where 14- to 18-year-olds can showcase and sell handmade goods. “It’s an opportunity to support the next generation of entrepreneurs while engaging the nearly 9,000 people who attend each week,” Fagan says. New wayfinding signage at key intersections – developed through the City’s Business Forward initiative – will help residents and visitors explore downtown more easily. This spring also brings the launch of a Downtown Magazine with curated itineraries and insider tips. “By telling the story of each area, we hope to draw visitors deeper into the downtown experience,” Fagan notes.

For business owners like Natalie Victoria of Victoria’s Restaurant, community engagement is central to downtown's vitality. “We’ve seen incredible participation in fundraisers, school partnerships, and local events,” she says. “These collaborations create a shared investment in downtown’s success.” With free evening and weekend parking, Rochester’s downtown continues to grow as a regional destination for dining, connection, and local pride.

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WHAT’S NEW & NEXT IN THE ROCHESTER AREA

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Photo provided by Rochester Downtown Alliance

Stewartville Public Library expansion rendering provided by the City of Stewartville

BYRON: INVESTING IN INFRASTRUCTURE AND OPPORTUNITY Byron is making strategic infrastructure and housing investments to support sustained growth. City Administrator Al Roder highlights planned interchanges at Highway 14 and County State Aid Roads 3 and 5 – partially funded by federal and state dollars – as a critical step in supporting future development. A new Recreation Coordinator intern position will help expand programming across Byron's growing amenities, including pickleball courts, a soccer complex, and a new 3x3 basketball court. The city also aims to add more than 100 housing units annually over the next five years. “Meeting regional housing demand is essential to supporting workforce growth and community vitality,” Roder says.

STEWARTVILLE: GROWTH ROOTED IN COMMUNITY Just south of Rochester, Stewartville is balancing rapid economic growth with strong community values. Adam Gehling, community development coordinator for Stewartville, points to the city’s parks, public pool, library, amphitheater, and skatepark as quality-of-life anchors that set the city apart. The Stewartville Public Library is undergoing a major expansion, with a grand opening anticipated in 2027, featuring additional meeting spaces, expanded collections, and energy-efficient upgrades. On the economic front, Amazon, United Therapeutics, and MacArthur Company are establishing or expanding operations in Schumann Business Park, while GEOTEK continues to grow in Tebay’s Industrial Park. A potential new facility by Minnesota Medical Technologies Corp. signals continued momentum. “Thoughtful growth is our priority,” Gehling emphasizes. “We’re committed to preserving the character of our community while creating opportunities for businesses and residents alike.”

See more Rochester Downtown Alliance's statistics at www.downtownrochestermn.com/do-business-downtown 3.6 MILLION AVERAGE VISITORS IN DOWNTOWN ROCHESTER

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WHAT’S NEW & NEXT IN THE ROCHESTER AREA

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Plans for Highway 14 Interchanges at County Roads 3 and 5 in Byron

Photo of Collins Park new ninja obstacle course provided by the City of Pine Island

PINE ISLAND: COLLABORATION AND EXPANSION Pine Island is embracing both regional cooperation and homegrown investment. The city is part of the North Zumbro Sanitary Sewer District project, a collaborative effort among Zumbrota, Pine Island, Wanamingo, Goodhue, and Prairie Island to build a new shared wastewater treatment facility in Zumbrota. The project is nearing completion of its design phase and seeking state funding to begin construction. Business expansion is also thriving. Logic of English is relocating from Rochester and expanding with a new 30,000-square-foot warehouse, with construction anticipated to begin this spring. Project Skyway – a 30,000-square-foot office building and 300,000-square- foot data center with Google named as the end user – has also received city approval. New housing continues to take shape across multiple subdivisions, including the recently approved third phase of Pine Prairie, which will add 28 single-family lots. Quality-of-life investments round out a busy year. Two major park projects are underway: Collins Park is getting a new ninja obstacle course, and Trailhead Park is receiving all-new inclusive playground equipment, supported by a $238,900 DNR Outdoor Recreation grant. A community mural is also in the works, with completion expected by mid-May. “The City continues to invest in quality of life projects,” says Elizabeth Howard, city administrator. “These investments reflect our commitment to making Pine Island a place where residents and businesses can truly thrive.”

As communities across Southeast Minnesota continue to innovate, invest, and collaborate, these updates offer just a snapshot of the momentum shaping the region. We look forward to continuing this coverage as a series, highlighting additional updates, projects, and perspectives that reflect the shared commitment to growth and quality of life across the Rochester region.

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BRENT BECK, ALL CRAFT EXTERIORS

CEO Profile

CEO Profile: Brent Beck

Taking an in-depth look at Beck's career path, progression, and achievements Tell us about your career path to becoming Owner / Project Estimator of All Craft Exteriors I started working at a young age. Growing up, I worked at my aunt and uncle’s farm, selling sweet corn, watermelon, and vegetables out of a roadside stand in Red Wing. That’s really where I got started with sales. I remember one day, some kids came by pulling a wagon. It made me realize there were people in town who couldn’t get down to the stand. So I hired those kids and had them deliver produce to nearby apartments. I paid them based on what they sold. I didn’t think of it as commission at the time, but that’s what it was. After high school, I joined the National Guard and went to basic training in Fort Benning, Georgia. When I came back, I got into siding installation with a friend. I was paid based on performance, and that opened my eyes to what you could make in the trades. From there, I started my own crew, moved into sales, and eventually partnered with Chad McCarty to start All Craft Exteriors. What experiences have had a significant impact in shaping you as a leader? I worked in a lot of environments where things weren’t always done the right way. Customers weren’t always treated well, and sometimes the focus was more on closing the deal than doing the job right. That stuck with me. For me, doing things better meant treating people right—customers and employees—and standing behind the work. That’s where the lifetime labor warranty came from. For years, I was going back and fixing things we had done, just because it was the right thing to do. Eventually, we decided to put that in writing. What changes in trends and needs within the home improvement/construction industry have you seen? A lot has changed. Products are better—more energy- efficient and better quality than they used to be. Technology has changed how people shop. You can look up your house and get a pretty good idea of what a project might cost without even meeting someone. Regulations have also gotten more complicated. There’s more to keep up with, and you have to stay educated. You’re also seeing more diversity in the trades. We’ve got a young woman on one of our siding crews, and she’s doing a great job. That wasn’t something you saw as often years ago.

How has All Craft Exteriors evolved to meet those changes to the industry? Training is a big part of it. We spend a lot of time making sure our team understands the products, the installation, and the right way to do things. We stay up to date on materials, techniques, and regulations. At the end of the day, that helps us serve our customers better. We also try to keep our sales process straightforward. We don’t use high-pressure tactics. We’d rather be honest with someone—even if that means not getting the job— than have someone regret their decision later. As you look ahead to the future, what do you see as the outlook for the home improvement/construction industry as well as for All Craft Exteriors? One of the biggest challenges is the growth of large, out- of-town companies. They’ve got deep pockets. They can spend more on advertising and recruiting. But they’re not local. They don’t live here, and they don’t have to look their customers in the face every day. We do. We’re part of this community. We support local organizations, and when people work with us, that money stays here. Going forward, that’s our focus—keep doing things the right way, keep training our team, and keep taking care of our customers.

To read more about All Craft Exteriors, visit https://allcraftexteriors.com

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RENNING'S FLOWERS

Meet the Member

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RENNING'S FLOWERS

Meet the Member

Meet the Member: Renning's Flowers Each month, we learn from a Chamber member about their offerings, history, a unique fact, and their business outlook For generations, flowers have helped people express what words sometimes cannot. Renning’s Flowers has been a part of those meaningful moments in Rochester since 1959, providing fresh arrangements, plants, and gifts for every occasion, from celebrations to times of sympathy. As a family-owned business now in its third generation, Renning’s has built a lasting legacy rooted in quality, care, and a deep connection to the community. We spoke with Andrea Renning Junge, Manager of Renning’s Flowers to learn more about their history, growth, and what continues to inspire their work today. Q: Tell us about Renning's Flowers. What does your organization offer to the Rochester region? A : We are a retail florist, selling fresh cut flowers, blooming and green plants as well as silk flowers and assorted gift items. We help people express their thoughts and feelings for every occasion, from happy to sad and everything in between. While we primarily service the Rochester and surrounding area, we do send floral orders throughout the country with our network of fellow florists. Q: How did it start for Renning's Flowers? A: Renning’s Flowers was started in 1959 by Frank “Bud” Renning. The first store was located on 1st Ave SW (street level of the Odd Fellows Bldg).

Q: Renning's Flowers has been a member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce for over 60 years. What do you find valuable in your membership to the organization? A: It’s hard for a small business to keep up with all the things that go on in the government at both the State and City level. The Chamber does a great job of keeping its membership informed on the important issues and legislation that affect our business. We benefit from all the notifications, seminars, and lobbying efforts that the Chamber does. Q: What is a unique fact people should know about Renning's Flowers? A: Currently Renning’s Flowers is ranked #73 out of 7500+ Teleflora retail florists throughout the country. Q: What is the outlook for your organization and industry? A: We’ve seen many changes in the 67 years of our existence. No doubt changes and challenges will continue; but we’re blessed to have a great staff and to be supported by a wonderful community, so we look forward to a bright and blooming future. (pun intended  )

To learn more about Renning's Flowers visit www.renningsflowers.com

Morgan Stanley is proud to congratulate David A. Olson Named one of Barron's Top 1,500 Financial Advisors: State-by-State

In 1966, the store relocated down the street into the Kahler Hotel. (where Victoria’s now resides).

Being named to Barron’s 2026 Top 1,500 Financial Advisors: State-by-State list is a testament to your experience, focus, and dedication to your clients’ financial future. Thank you for the work you do each day and for carrying forward the standard of excellence at our firm.

In 1977, Bud built his own building and the store was relocated to 331 Elton Hills Dr NW (which is its current location). In 1988, Bud sold the store to his daughter Kim and son- in-law Phil Schroeder. In 2011, Kim & Phil’s daughter joined the team on a full- time basis, becoming the 3rd generation of the family in the business.

David A. Olson Portfolio Management Director Managing Director – Wealth Management Financial Advisor

14 Second Street SW Rochester, MN 55902 +1 507 529-4405 david.a.olson@morganstanley.com https://advisor.morganstanley.com/the-blackridge-group

Source: Barron’s (Awarded March 2026) This ranking was determined based on an evaluation process conducted by Barron’s for the period Oct 2024-Sept 2025. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to Barron’s to obtain or use the ranking. This ranking is based on a formula that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the assessment of Barron’s and may not be representative of any one client’s experience. This ranking is not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with Barron’s. Barron’s is a registered trademark of Dow Jones & Company, L.P. All rights reserved.

REC002 CRC 5220513 02/2026 CS 2259448-6810904 02/26

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UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

AM Espresso is a monthly morning structured networking event. Come expand your network, promote your business, and enjoy a delicious breakfast and refreshments. This monthly event represents an excellent opportunity to reach business professionals in a variety of sectors.

JUNE HOST

JULY HOST

In June, join us at Forté Living of Rochester! Located in Rochester, Minnesota, Forté Living Apartments, designed for seniors 55+, offer a one-of-a-kind senior living community with easy access to the Mayo Clinic and independently- owned restaurants, as well as grocery stores, parks and entertainment venues.

In July, join us at American Waterworks! American Waterworks can restore and protect your basement from water damage. Their trained crews have the expertise to dry out and waterproof the wettest basements, and also specialize in foundation repair, concrete leveling and repair, crawl space repair, and much more.

Date: Friday, June 5, 2026 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Forté Living of Rochester, 3955 Superior Dr NW, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested

Date: Friday, July 10, 2026 Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: American Waterworks, 1307 Valleyhigh Dr NW, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested

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UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

Join us for Business After Hours, a monthly event to network and build valuable business relationships. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while connecting with a variety of businesses operating in the greater Rochester area. This event is a great opportunity to increase your organization’s visibility and generate productive business leads.

JUNE HOST

JULY HOST

In June, join us at Mill Valley Kitchen! Established in 2011, Mill Valley Kitchen is the shared passion of husband and wife team, Mike & Abby Rakun, founded in the practices at home of preparing food with their children that is both nourishing and delicious. Playing tribute to the Mill Valley Region in Northern California, MVK brings a Farm to Table experience like no other!

In July, join us at Kahler Hospitality Group! The Kahler Hospitality Group is committed to ensuring your stay in Rochester, MN is both comfortable and enjoyable. Unique in offering the only five hotels connected to the Mayo Clinic via an underground concourse, their establishments provide inviting accommodations, dining options, and exceptional hospitality!

Date: Wednesday, June 24, 2026 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm

Date: Wednesday, July 22, 2026 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: The Kahler Grand Hotel, Elizabethan Ballroom, 20 2nd Ave. SW, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested

Location: Mill Valley Kitchen, 150 Broadway Ave S, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested

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UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

Start your weekend with the Chamber team! We welcome members to join us for lunch and an opportunity to connect with fellow members on a Friday every summer month for our Chamber Weekend Kickoff. The Chamber will be grilling brats and serving lunch from 11:30am-1:00pm at 125 LIVE. Quantities are limited and registration is requested and greatly appreciated. Be sure to bring members of your team to start your weekend with a brat and networking!

Develop relationships within this supportive group of women leaders who meet the third Friday morning of each month. The Women’s Roundtable provides a small, safe environment for women to: practice and refine skills, discuss challenges specific to women in positions of leadership, learn together, and empower each other to take risks. Join us for a fun, engaging program driven by the needs of the group.

Dates: Friday, June 12, 2026 Friday, July 17, 2026

JUNE HOST

Friday, September 11, 2026

Time: 11:30am-1:00pm Location: 125 LIVE, 125 Elton Hills Dr. NW, Rochester Admission: Free, registration is requested Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4lD5DCV

Date: Thursday, June 18, 2026 Time: 4:30pm-6:00pm

Location: Tilson's Auto Repair 1740 Broadway Ave S, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested

Event Sponsors PRESENTING SPONSOR

JULY HOST

Date: Friday, July 17, 2026 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester Chamber of Commerce - Conference Room, 220 Broadway Ave S, Suite 100, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4d7lOEC

LUNCH SPONSOR

DRINK SPONSOR

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UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

MATCH GAMES

The Chamber Champions League (CCL) unites businesses through a series of friendly head-to-head competitions, blending physical challenges, mental trials, and team- building action into a fun-filled day of teamwork. Match games will include airplane toss, cornhole, giant word scramble, tug of war, and more! Awards will be presented to 1st, 2nd, 3rd as well as the Best Dressed Team and Best Cheer Team. Ready to join the league? Your team will need to consist of 6-8 players. Not all games will need everyone on the team but everyone will get the chance to play! Space is limited to 20 teams.

ROCHESTER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Airplane Toss

Cornhole

BEYOND KITCHENS Giant Word Scramble

SEVERSON AUTO SERVICE Tug of War

And more match games to be announced!

Date: Tuesday, August 5, 2026 Time: 8:00am-2:00pm

Event Sponsors

Location: Slatterly Park, 950 11th Ave SE, Rochester Admission: $400 per team (6-8 players), $60 for an individual, registration required by Friday, July 24

MATCH SPONSORS

Beyond Kitchens Rochester International Airport

TUG OF WAR SPONSOR Severson Auto Service

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UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

This kickin’ good time event is a great way to get Chamber members and their staff out of the office to enjoy a fun day of networking, building relationships, and bonding as a team, all while playing a friendly game of kickball! We welcome all skill levels for this single elimination bracket. Awards will be presented to 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and best dressed team. Don’t have a team but want to come enjoy the day with us? Come cheer on the teams and network with others in attendance. Location: McQuillan Fields, 1655 Marion Rd. SE, Rochester Admission: Registration opens Tuesday, June 9! $40 per individual, $400 per team (10 players), registration required by Wednesday, September 9 Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4er2Ue7 Date: Thursday, September 10, 2026 Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm

The Chamber Cup isn’t your typical golf tournament, it’s a Ryder Cup-style team golf event that brings the spirit of match play, strategy, and camaraderie to the forefront. Four-person teams will go head-to-head in rotating formats like alternate shot and best ball, making every swing count. Designed for those who love a little friendly rivalry, the Chamber Cup offers pride, bragging rights, and a trophy on the line.

Date: Wednesday, September 23, 2026 Time: 10:00am-7:00pm Location: Willow Creek Golf Course, 1700 48th St. SW, Rochester

Admission: $840 for a team, $210 for an individual, registration required by Wednesday, September 9 Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4lk9BA4

CHAMBER CUP SPONSOR Event Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR Event Sponsors

CART SPONSOR

HAZARD SPONSOR

DUGOUT SPONSOR

HOLE SPONSORS AMS | Secure Strategic Technology

20 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — JUNE 2026

UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

EGGS & ISSUES

Welcome to the RYT Summit, where professionals can connect, learn, and develop. This premier professional development conference offers a dynamic blend of a workshop series, leadership panel, and keynote speaker curated to empower you with actionable insights and strategies for leadership and professional growth. KEYNOTE SPEAKER: KRISTA RYAN The KFG Method (Keep F*!#ing Going) equips participants with a tangible action plan for navigating unexpected changes with confidence, ultimately creating stronger team bonds and a deeper sense of purpose. WORKSHOP SERIES: ELEVATE YOUR SKILLS Dive into engaging and informative workshops with several topics to be announced. PANEL DISCUSSION: INSIGHTS FROM LEADERS Gain valuable insight as local leaders share about their career paths and lessons learned along the way whether from challenges or successes. Date: Tuesday, October 6, 2026 Time: 1:00pm - 4:00pm with an optional social hour afterwards Location: TBA Admission: $50 for members, $60 for general admission, special pricing for RYT Network members, $350 for a reserved table of 8 plus company name in promotion of event, registration is required by Friday, September 26 Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4tpwa8H

For the next edition of Eggs & Issues, the Chamber has invited members of the federal delegation to join the conversation and is pleased to welcome John Kirchner, Vice President of the Midwest Region of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, who will provide a federal update and national perspective on issues affecting the business community. Date, time, and location to be announced soon! View our event calendar by From D.C. to Rochester, Our Federal Delegation & the US Chamber

scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/40UL8Xi

Event Sponsors PRESENTING SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSOR

Event Sponsors

GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

TABLE SPONSOR

Rochester Motor Cars

TABLE SPONSOR

Kraus-Anderson

JUNE 2026 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 21

Calendar of Events View and register for all Chamber events at www.rochestermnchamber.com/events JUNE 5 AM Espresso - Forté Living of Rochester Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Forté Living of Rochester 17 Chamber Weekend Kickoff Time: 11:30am-1:00pm Location: 125 LIVE 17 Business After Hours - Reagan Outdoor Advertising Time : 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Reagan Outdoor Advertising

22 Business After Hours - Kahler Hospitality Group Time : 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Kahler Hospitality Group AUGUST 5 Chamber Champions League Time: 8:00am-2:00pm Location: Slatterly Park

18 Women's Roundtable Time : 7:30am-9:00am Location: Northgate Health Club 23 Chamber Cup Time : 10:00am-7:00pm Location: Willow Creek Golf Course OCTOBER 2 AM Espresso - North Rock Hospitality & Real Estate Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Home2 Suites by Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic 6 RYT Summit Time: 1:00pm-4:00pm Location: TBA 8 Business After Hours - Rochester Title & Escrow Time : 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Rochester Title & Escrow 16 Women's Roundtable Time : 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester International Airport 27 Technology Summit Time : TBA Location: TBA

6 Lemonade Day Location: Byron, Rochester, and Stewartville 12 Chamber Weekend Kickoff Time: 11:30am-1:00pm Location: 125 LIVE 17 2026 Annual Golf Outing Time : 9:30am-7:00pm Location: Willow Creek Golf Course 18 Women's Roundtable Time : 4:30pm-6:00pm Location: Tilson's Auto Repair 23 Chamber 101 Time : 3:00pm-4:00pm Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce 24 Business After Hours - Mill Valley Kitchen Time : 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Mill Valley Kitchen JULY 10 AM Espresso - American Waterworks Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: American Waterworks 17 Women's Roundtable Time : 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

7 AM Espresso - TBA Time : 7:30am-9:00am Location: TBA

20 Business After Hours - Premier Bank Time : 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Premier Bank 21 Women's Roundtable Time : 7:30am-9:00am Location: Terra Loco SEPTEMBER 10 Chamber Kickball Tournament Time: 10:00am-4:00pm Location: McQuillan Fields 11 AM Espresso - Alerus Time : 7:30am-9:00am Location: Alerus - Downtown Location 11 Chamber Weekend Kickoff Time: 11:30am-1:00pm Location: 125 LIVE

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Open Your Doors & Shape the Future Host educators to connect classroom learning with real-world careers on July 22 nd , August 19 th and 20 th

Role of EIE Host

SITE TOUR Provide educators with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of your facilities to gain firsthand insights into your operations and workplace culture. INDUSTRY INSIGHT Share your expertise and knowledge with educators by offering a detailed overview of your business, including current trends, challenges, and future job prospects. JOB SHADOWING Allow educators to engage with various job roles within your organization, offering them a firsthand experience of the day-to- day responsibilities and skills required in different positions.

The Educator Industry Experience (EIE) Program offers local businesses a unique opportunity to play a vital role in shaping the future of education and workforce development in our community. By hosting educators for a day, businesses can provide invaluable insights into their industry, career pathways, and job opportunities. Join us in making a difference in education and workforce development by becoming a host business in the EIE Program. Your participation will not only benefit current and future local educators and students, but also strengthen our community's economic vitality.

DATES AND TIMES: • Wednesday, July 22: 8:00am-11:00am • Wednesday, August 19: 1:00pm-4:00pm • Thursday, August 20: 1:00pm-4:00pm

Presenting Sponsor

To learn more about being a host business, contact Claire Henneman at chenneman@rochestermnchamber.com

Read and Share the 2026 Rochester Area Community Guide & Chamber Directory Scan the QR code or visit www.rochestermnchamber.com/communications

JUNE 2026 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 23

Chamber News

Congratulations Leadership Greater Rochester Class of 2026

LGR Class of 2026 Sponsors PRESENTING

PROGRAM

Congratulations to the 2026 Leadership Greater Rochester (LGR) Class! Over the last ten months, the class has been immersed in sessions examining everything from economic development and the local arts scene, to workforce development and building a sustainable community. We also extend a special thank you to the 2026 LGR Program Chair, Melissa Johnson with U.S. Bank, 2026 Program Vice- Chair, Heather Barness with the City of Rochester, the LGR Steering Committee, session planning teams, and sponsors for your contributions and support of the program!

SMALL BUSINESS LEADER SCHOLARSHIP

CAFFEINE SPONSOR

Graduating Class of 2026

Matt Peterson , All Craft Exteriors

Andrew Holman , IBM Karl Johnson , Cascade Creek Memory Care Corey Johnson , Mayo Clinic Amy Kanz , Families First of MN Brenda Kardock , Rochester Public Library Foundation Segun Kolade , Mayo Clinic Nathan Lillestol , SERVPRO of Rochester Morgan Muenster , Grinde & Dicke Law Firm PA Somayah Nouruzi , Mayo Clinic Paul Peterson , Think Bank

Jeff Cummings , IBM Greg Davis , Mayo Clinic Zach Fuller , KTTC Adam Gehling , City of Stewartville Adam Giannini , Knutson Construction Amanda Grayson , City of

Stephanie Anderson , Mayo Clinic Maria Baer , Mayo Clinic Kristi Barnhart , Premier Bank Minnesota Alyssa Bast , First Alliance Credit Union Ashley Braem , Mayo Clinic Adam Bridwell , Mayo Clinic Matt Brouillard , U.S. Bank Tyler Cain , Core Real Estate Group Danielle Carlson , Mayo Clinic Christopher Coon , Dunlap & Seeger P.A.

Adam Pleschourt , Widseth Matthew Sather , Think Bank Alexander Saunders , K2 & Company Anna Schmidt , Cradle 2 Career James Theobald , Benike Construction Sara Thompson , Mayo Clinic Zachary Villanueva , IBM

Rochester Police Department Robin Hammer , Mayo Clinic Haley Hassebrock , TerraLoco Brett Herring , Meyer Borgman Johnson Liam Higgins , Olmsted Medical Center

24 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — JUNE 2026

Chamber News

Sponsorship Opportunities

DATES OF CRC: • Right of First Refusal Period: Tuesday, July 14-Monday, August 17 • Open Enrollment: Tuesday, August 18 – Open Enrollment is for current sponsors wanting to add additional engagement opportunities and new sponsors looking to become involved in engagement opportunities. • Close of Chamber Resource Campaign: Monday, November 30 The 2027 CRC Guide will be released online on Tuesday, June 16. Stay tuned for more details in your inbox! If you would like to set up a phone call, in-person meeting, or Zoom call with Shannon Gowen to learn more about events and programs, please contact her at sgowen@rochestermnchamber.com or 507-424-5687. You can also schedule a meeting with her on Calendly at: https://calendly.com/sgowen- rochestermnchamber

The Chamber Resource Campaign (CRC) guide will provide you with an efficient platform to plan your engagement in Rochester Chamber events, programs, and more throughout 2027. This CRC Guide is a showcase of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce events and programs, providing you with valuable details such as event descriptions, available sponsorship levels, and benefits associated with each opportunity.

The Young Talent Network for Growth Exclusive events and growth opportunities with the RYT Network Launched in September 2023, the RYT Network (Rochester Members enjoy exclusive access to two monthly events designed to foster professional growth, community engagement, and meaningful connections. These events offer a variety of opportunities such as speed networking, pickleball, social hours, volunteering, behind-the-scenes industry tours, and CEO Connections. Members also benefit from professional development workshops and signature annual events, including the Mini Golf Mixer and the fall RYT Summit young professional conference. Area Young Talent Network) connects, develops, and empowers young talent across the Rochester region.

Puzzle Competition at Spyhouse Coffee Recent Events

CEO Connections with Natalie Victoria, owner and operator of Victoria's Ristorante & Wine Bar, The Social at the Avalon, The Tap House

RYT Network Sponsors GOLD SPONSORS

If you would like to join the RYT Network or learn more, please visit www.rochestermnchamber.com/ryt- network or contact Claire Henneman at chenneman@ rochestermnchamber.com.

NETWORKING SPONSOR

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SPONSOR

Knutson Construction

Benike Construction

JUNE 2026 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 25

Community News

Olmsted Medical Center Named to the Forbes Top Hospitals 2026

While this honor highlights excellence in patient outcomes, safety, and experience, what matters most to them remains unchanged—their patients, their people, and their communities. Good Health Starts With Great Care®—and they are grateful to their team and community for making this recognition possible.

Olmsted Medical Center has been named to the Forbes Top Hospitals 2026 list. This national recognition reflects more than a moment. Since 1949, OMC has partnered for better health and better lives, growing into a network of more than 290 clinicians, 35 services, and 25 locations across southeastern Minnesota.

Learn more at https://youtu.be/42mzwG1T5mk?si=xovCAc2_Fx21Qcn_

Unemployment Rate Remained Steady in March

Five supersectors lost jobs over the month, led by Trade, Transportation and Utilities (1,900 jobs, down 0.4%). Leisure and Hospitality also saw its third consecutive month of losses (800 jobs, down 0.3%). Over the year, Minnesota gained 9,246 payroll jobs (up 0.3%). Five supersectors gained, with the largest increases in Education & Health Services (19,230 jobs, up 3.2% and Construction (5,257 jobs, up 4.3%); five supersectors lost jobs. Sectors that experienced the greatest numbers of job losses were Trade, Transportation and Utilities (7,614 jobs, down 1.5%) and Leisure & Hospitality (4,714 jobs, down 1.8%). U.S. employment grew 0.1% over the year, with the private sector up 0.4%. Four supersectors gained jobs at the national level, while seven lost jobs. The Information sector saw the highest percentage of losses at both the state and national levels (down 4.7% state, down 2.9% nationally).

Minnesota's unemployment rate in March held at 4.5% while the national rate ticked down one-tenth of a percentage point to 4.3%, according to data released on April 30, 2026 by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). "March was closer to a flat month for the state's labor market, which is an improvement over February," said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. "It's good to see some initial signs of stabilization in the unemployment rate and jobs numbers following the peak of Operation Metro Surge – but I continue to believe Minnesota and the nation face a long road to recovery, amidst other headwinds like high energy prices." Minnesota's labor force participation rate ticked down three- tenths of a percentage point to 67.6% over the month. The U.S. labor force participation rate dropped one-tenth of a percentage point to 61.9% during this period. Five supersectors in Minnesota gained jobs on a seasonally adjusted basis since the prior month, led by Professional and Business Services (1,600 jobs, up 0.4%), Manufacturing (1,500 jobs, up 0.5%) and Construction (1,100 jobs, up 0.8%).

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