Advantage Magazine | February 2026

NEWSREELS

Community News

Newsreels Updates from the Chamber member community

VICTORIA NAMED MINNESOTA'S RESTAURATEUR OF THE YEAR

MALONEY RECEIVES BRIDGE BUILDER AWARD

NEW DIRECTOR FOR ROCHESTER SPORTS FOUNDATION

Natalie Victoria , owner of Victoria’s and The Social at the Avalon, has been named Hospitality Minnesota’s Restaurateur of the Year. Honored at the Stars of the Industry Awards on December 4, she brings more than 30 years of restaurant experience, including opening Victoria’s Ristorante and Wine Bar in downtown Rochester in 1997 - now one of the city’s most beloved dining spots.

Scott Maloney , Executive Director of Family Service Rochester, was honored with the 2025 Bridge Builder Award in Rochester, MN. Celebrating 25 years at FSR, Scott is recognized for his collaborative leadership, equity and inclusion, and strengthening community partnerships that expand access, build understanding, and unite our Rochester community.

The Rochester Sports Foundation has announced the appointment of Marshall Behrens as its new Director, succeeding longtime leader Ed Hruska, who retired at the end of 2025. Behrens brings a rare combination of leadership, community involvement, and deep sports-experience to the role. He also has served on the Board of Rochester Sports (a sibling organization to Rochester Sports Foundation) since 2015.

BECKER RETIRES AS EAGLE ROCK BANK'S CO-CEO

SCHMINSKI NAMED SOLE CEO OF EAGLE ROCK BANK

NELSON PROMOTED TO PRESIDENT

Brad Becker retired as Co-CEO and president for Eagle Rock Bank at the end of 2025. Since joining in 2013, Becker has been instrumental in raising capital and stabilizing the bank after the recession. Under his direction, the bank executed four capital raises and grew from $50 to $275 million in total assets. He will continue to serve on the bank’s board of directors.

Larry Schminski , previously co-CEO of Eagle Rock Bank, has been named sole CEO. A former FDIC examiner with more than 30 years of financial experience, he brings a deep understanding of commercial banking and regulatory requirements. As CEO, Larry will be leading the bank’s strategic direction, ensuring growth and profitability, and focusing on business development in the Twin Cities market and in the Construction Development Mortgage Division.

Kelly Nelson , previously senior vice president at Eagle Rock Bank, has been promoted to president. A certified public accountant with more than 20 years of experience in local financial institutions, Nelson brings a strong background in strategic growth and business banking. Her passion lies in local businesses and helping business owners successfully transition their companies to the next generation.

FEBRUARY 2026 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 37

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