APRIL 2024
A ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATION
KWIK TRIP: MAKING A NAME FOR THEMSELVES The Expansion of a Family-Owned Business Throughout the Years
1965
12
20
31
BUSINESS OUTLOOK Survey Results Now Available
MEET THE MEMBER Key Builders, Inc.
LEMONADE DAY Registration is Now Open
2 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
April 2024 Advantage Magazine
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What’s Inside
FEATURE Kwik Trip: Making a Name for Themselves
5
5
KWIK TRIP
FEATURE Business Outlook Survey Results
12
MEET THE MEMBER Key Builders, Inc.
20
CHAMBER NEWS • Events • Leadership Greater Rochester Applications Open until April 30th • New & Promoted Chamber Staff • RYT Network: Connecting Young Professionals • Chamber Seeks Board of Director Nominations COMMUNITY NEWS • Workplaces Help United Way Create Change in Rochester • Cascade Park: From Project to Party • Minnesota Posts Solid Job Growth in January
22
12
PERSPECTIVE ON BUSINESS TRENDS
2023 BUSINESS OUTLOOK RESULTS
39
NEWSREEL New Roles and Celebrations
42
RIBBON CUTTINGS Grand Openings, Anniversaries, New Members, and Other Celebrations
44
NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the Chamber
46
20
36
KEY BUILDERS
RYT NETWORK
APRIL 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 3
CHAMBER STAFF & BOARD
February 2024 Advantage Magazine
Chamber Staff
CHAMBER PRESIDENT, Ryan Parsons | 507-288-1122
SENIOR DIRECTOR, MEMBERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT Kali Aldrich | 507-424-5665 WORKFORCE INITIATIVES & RYT NETWORK DIRECTOR Kaytlyn Anzivino | 507-424-5662 POLICY & COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Olivia Kloster | 507-424-5666
PUBLIC AFFAIRS & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Jonathon Krull | 507-424-5677 DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & OPERATIONS Madelyn Ryan | 507-424-5699
SENIOR DIRECTOR, EVENTS & PROGRAMS Ally Sheehan | 507-424-5687
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Cherie Thurlow | 507-288-1122
COMMUNICATIONS & DESIGN DIRECTOR Sophia van Oss | 507-424-5661
MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR Tim Shea | 507-424-5663
Chamber Board Officers
CHAIR OF THE BOARD Scott Eggert | Broadway Plaza
AT LARGE Gwen Stevens | People's Energy Cooperative
TREASURER Jessica Eidem | IBM Corporation
VICE CHAIR Steve Dunn | Taco JED
SECRETARY John Eckerman | RSP Architects
Chamber Board Members
SANTHI ARUNACHALAM Xylo Technologies Inc.
ULISES GONZALEZ Baser Freight
TOM LEIMER Knutson Construction
CHAD BEHNKEN Hamilton Real Estate
DOUG HOLTAN Mayo Clinic
OMAR NUR Somali American Social Services Association
DR. JEFFREY BOYD Rochester Community and Technical College
JARETT JONES Merchants Bank
SYLWIA BUJAK OLIVER 125 LIVE
MARGE KELLEY GPC
HEATHER DONOVAN Sterling State Bank
KRISTY SUTTON Olmsted Medical Center
CHAD LAUNDERVILLE Hy-Vee
ABEL GARCIA Remodeling D.L, LLC
KELSEY VASZILY Kraus-Anderson Construction
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 Sophia van Oss at svanoss@rochestermnchamber.com
4 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
KWIK TRIP: MAKING A NAME FOR THEMSELVES The Expansion of a Family-Owned Business Throughout the Years
KWIK TRIP: MAKING A NAME FOR THEMSELVES
Feature
A KWIK TRIP THROUGH TIME
1971
The first La Crosse, WI store opened.
1965
The first Kwik Trip store opened in Eau Claire, WI.
Drive down some of Rochester’s main thoroughfares and you’d be hard pressed not to find a Kwik Trip, one of the Midwest region’s favorite convenience stores. With 15 locations in the Rochester area, Kwik Trip, which was founded in 1965 in Eau Claire, WI, has made a name for itself in Midwest communities both large and small.
WRITTEN BY MAURA KELLER
As Ben Leibl, public relations specialist at Kwik Trip explains, the company’s early years were spent trying to figure out where to best have locations for their stores and growing the company. “At this time in America, cars and interstate travel were taking off and people needed gas and snacks as they were traveling,” Leibl says.
6 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
KWIK TRIP: MAKING A NAME FOR THEMSELVES
Feature
1986
Chain grew to 100 stores.
1983
Chain grew to 50 stores. Corporate offices expanded for the 3rd time. Distribution Center expanded for the 2nd time.
By 1986, a mere 21 years after Don Zietlow founded Kwik Trip, the company opened its 100th store. Fast forward to 2021, and Kwik Trip opened its 800th store. And two years later, in 2023, Don’s son, Dr. Scott Zietlow, who had worked at Mayo Clinic since the 1990s, left his position of professor of surgery in Mayo Clinic’s trauma, critical care, and general surgery division, to take
on the titles of President and CEO of the La Crosse-based family-owned company. “Today, with over 870 stores company wide, we have expanded our production facilities in La Crosse as
2023
well. We believe strongly in vertical integration which allows Kwik Trip to be in control of the process for how things are made,” Leibl said.
The Founders son, Dr. Scott Zietlow, who had worked at Mayo Clinic since the 1990s, became President and CEO of the family-owned company.
KWIK TRIP: MAKING A NAME FOR THEMSELVES
Feature
“We are the most vertically integrated convenience store in America. We have also grown our transportation area significantly and we deliver to our stores daily, so we have invested in our semis and trailers to ensure that we can make those deliveries happen on a daily basis.” And with the introduction of Kwik Trip’s much-loved Glazers Donuts in 2003 and the roll out of its hot food “Hot Spot” program, the company further catapulted itself to the next level in the minds of its loyal customer base – but not without a lot of hard work and determination. As Leibl explains, when Kwik Trip initially rolled out the hot food program, they struggled with it at first. “We got into the food business because this was the next step in the growth of the company. As more and more people started traveling, we felt like we could offer hot food from our Hot Spot on top of fuel, snacks, drinks, etc. However, we threw more food away than what we sold. We had to gain the trust of our guests that buying food from a convenience store was safe and good to eat,” Leibl said. “We have our own food safety lab at our headquarters in La Crosse to ensure that we sell quality products for our guests.” "We have also grown our transportation area significantly and we deliver to our stores daily, so we have invested in our semis and trailers to ensure that we can make those deliveries happen on a daily basis."
A Look Inside Kwik Trip's Food Production
8 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
KWIK TRIP: MAKING A NAME FOR THEMSELVES
Feature
APRIL 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 9
KWIK TRIP: MAKING A NAME FOR THEMSELVES
Feature
And as the company’s customer base continued to grow, so too did its brand identity and the level of its loyalty programming. In fact, the company’s Kwik Rewards program has played a vital role in the growth of Kwik Trip.
Indeed, Kwik Trip’s company culture is founded on taking care of people. It doesn’t matter if it’s vendors, guests, coworkers, or suppliers. The corporate mission statement focuses on making a difference in people’s lives.
which we have stores. We have a donation committee that receives over 500 requests per week from various businesses and organizations that are looking for donations for events that they are holding. Kwik Trip also sponsors events because
we recognize the value and importance of the partnerships with the communities where we have stores.” As Kwik Trip continues to build its brand presence in Rochester specifically, and the Midwest in general, the company has its sights set on continued growth. As Leibl explains, the company plans
“We are now over four million users in the rewards program,” Leibl said. “Guests are able to shop the specials or deals that we have, and it drives more people into our stores looking for those deals.” So what makes Kwik Trip such a unique convenience store experience whereby
"Everything we do is intentional towards making sure that people are taken care of. We keep that objective in mind when decisions are made and how it is going to affect our coworkers."
customers will drive out of their way to visit a Kwik Trip location? Leibl believes the overall brand experience is unique because of the guest service that the company features. “Our coworkers are friendly, we provide clean rest rooms and stores, and our coworkers love what they do,” Leibl said. “When you walk into one of our stores, you will see that the coworkers want to be there, and they are genuinely glad to help anyone who has a question.”
“Everything we do is intentional towards making sure that people are taken care of,” Leibl said. “We keep that objective in mind when decisions are made and how it is going to affect our coworkers.” But Kwik Trip’s focus on taking care of others extends far beyond their employee base. Kwik Trip is also big on giving back to the community at large. “We also have coworkers who serve on the boards of various non-profits in the communities in
on building between 40-50 new stores each year with a continued focus on taking care of people. “We currently have 38,000 coworkers and that number will continue to grow,” Leibl says. “We are also expanding our production facilities in La Crosse which will allow us to keep up with the growth on the retail side with the stores being built.”
10 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
THE POWER OF LOCAL Discover
Keeping Your Meetings and Events in Rochester Benefits Everyone
Join us in supporting local businesses and organizations by hosting your next event in our hometown! Meetings and events create a significant economic benefit for Rochester by supporting small businesses, creating jobs for our neighbors and friends, lowering resident taxes, and enhancing our community’s quality of life.
Did you know?
and 19% of the workforce in the greater Rochester area - second only to health care and social services.
Leisure, hospitality and retail support More than 19,000 jobs
Top spending categories of visitors in Rochester:
Angie Richards Vice President of Sales
Melissa Wiles Senior National Sales Manager (507) 424 0805 mwiles@experiencerochestermn.com
(507) 424 0818 arichards@experiencerochestermn.com
Retail 15.6%
Food 36.3%
Accommodations 32.7%
APRIL 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 11
During Economic Summit in January, our Business Outlook Survey results were presented in parternship with the University of Minnesota Extension . Thank you to all those who participated in the 2023 Business Outlook Survey. Your contribution provides valuable insights to understand better both the positive aspects and challenges in our local business community. Knowing the specific concerns across different sectors is crucial for targeted support and identifying solutions.
KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THE 2023 BUSINESS OUTLOOK SURVEY:
2023 BUSINESS OUTLOOK RESULTS • More than half of the surveyed businesses plan to increase sales/ revenue, with slightly over one-third intending to hire new employees. • The most cited plan for businesses in 2024 is to focus on sales and marketing, followed closely by plans to increase online sales. • Hiring paid employees and the cost of employees, along with customer sales and taxes remain top concerns across the local business community. • Tourism-related businesses (accommodations and entertainment) are more optimistic for growth this year. While retail, healthcare, and construction indicated the highest levels of concern. As we navigate 2024, identifying challenges in hiring, employee costs, and customer sales is pivotal. This awareness equips the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce and business community with the information to adapt and sustain success.
12 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
BUSINESS OUTLOOK SURVEY RESULTS
Feature
Demographics
SUMMARY 87% of responding firms were from Rochester. They represented all industry sectors, with the highest number of responses coming from professional/technical services and construction sectors. About half of respondents had less than 10 employees.
PRIMARY BUSINESS LOCATION
Greater Rochester
Outside Olmsted County
Downtown Rochester
Surronding Area
24%
63%
5% 8%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
PROBLEM SOLVED Our team believes design is for people. That’s why we’ve developed a highly collaborative process that engages all key stakeholders and leads to a clear understanding of the problems to be solved.
TEAMTSP • COM/ABOUT
APRIL 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 13
BUSINESS OUTLOOK SURVEY RESULTS
Feature
BUSINESSES BY INDUSTRY
Professional/Technical Services Healthcare/Social Assistance Construction Retail Entertainment Banking/Finance
26%
10%
12%
10%
6%
8%
Accomodations
4%
Transportation/Distrubtion/Travel
4%
Restaurant/Food Manufactuing
9%
3%
Other
3%
Education
6%
Agriculture/Energy
1%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
Percentage of Businesses
2022 RESPONSE 2021 RESPONSE
16
16
0.1
8
7
7
6
5
5
2
19
6.3
5.4
13.5
12.6
6.3
-
7.2
5.4
-
-
13.5
NOTE: Some historical categories are missing due to being categorized differently and/or responses.
NUMBER OF FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES
More than 50 17%
2022 RESPONSE
2021 RESPONSE
51% 46.7%
25 to 50 10%
Less than 10 48%
16%
20%
11%
15%
10 to 25 24%
22%
18%
14 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
BUSINESS OUTLOOK SURVEY RESULTS
Feature
Looking Back
SUMMARY Similar to 2021 and 2022, a majority of sales from reporting firms were to customers within Rochester and Minnesota. While most experienced stable or increasing sales last year, a third of firms experienced declining sales for 2023. Top concerns shared by respondents included access to capital and supply chain distruptions.
CHANGE IN SALES 2023
35%
33%
30%
25%
24%
22%
20%
15%
11%
11%
10%
5%
0%
Decreased more than 25%
Decreased 5- 25%
Mostly unchanged
Increased 5-25%
Increased more than 25%
2022 RESPONSE 2021 RESPONSE
10%
18%
24%
33% 15%
13%
16%
17%
34% 20%
APRIL 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 15
BUSINESS OUTLOOK SURVEY RESULTS
Feature
LOCATION OF 2023 SALES
Outside US 2%
Outside of MN, in US 13%
2022 RESPONSE
2021 RESPONSE
55% 56.7%
30% 27.9%
13% 14.4%
Outside of Rochester, in MN 30%
2%
1%
Within Rochester 56%
MOST SIGNIFICANT CHALLENGES IN 2023
Hiring Employee Cost
3.6
3.5
Employee Rentention Rising Input Costs
4.3
4.3
Customer Sales Taxes Supply Chain Disruptions Access to Captial Other
5.7
4.1
4.3
7
8.4
0.0
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
8.0
9.0
Average Rating (1 = Most Signigicant, 8 = Least Significant)
2022 RESPONSE 2021 RESPONSE
3.5
3.6
3.9
4.4
4.6
4.7
5
7
3.1
3.8
4
4.8
4.6
5.2
4.4
7
16 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
BUSINESS OUTLOOK SURVEY RESULTS
Feature
Looking Ahead
SUMMARY Optimism for 2024 is slightly less mixed as it was in 2022 and 2021, showing some more concern. While an increasing number of respondents expect sales to rise in 2024, challenges related to access to capital and supply chain disruptions are a few of the prominent concerns.
ANTICIPATED CHANGE IN SALES 2024
10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50%
47%
28%
14%
8%
0% 5%
3%
Decreased more than 25%
Decreased 5- 25%
Mostly unchanged
Increased 5-25%
Increased more than 25%
2022 RESPONSE 2021 RESPONSE
4%
15%
19%
54% 7%
3.6%
17.1%
24.3%
43.2% 11.7%
APRIL 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 17
BUSINESS OUTLOOK SURVEY RESULTS
Feature
ANTICIPATED CHALLENGES IN 2024
Hiring Employee Cost Employee Rentention Rising Input Costs Customer Sales Taxes Supply Chain Disruptions Access to Captial Other
3.6
3.6
4.1
4.4
3.8
3.9
6
7
8.6
0.0
2.0
4.0
6.0
8.0
10.0
Average Rating (1 = Most Signigicant, 8 = Least Significant)
2022 RESPONSE 2021 RESPONSE
3.5
3.6
3.9
4.2
4.3
4.9
5.1
7
3.2
3.8
3.9
4.8
4.3
5.1
4.6
7.1
OPTIMISM FOR BUSINESS IN 2024
Neutral 18%
2022 RESPONSE
2021 RESPONSE
Optimistic 39%
41%
46%
44%
46%
15%
8%
Concerned 43%
18 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
Thank You We are grateful for all who could join us at Economic Summit for a current snapshot and forecast of the year ahead for the local, regional, and national economy, including insight into the economic trends impacting businesses in the Rochester region. A special thank you to our sponsors for supporting this event and the Business Outlook Survey.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
HOST SPONSOR
GOLD SPONSOR
PRODUCTION SPONSOR
BRONZE SPONSOR Minnesota Energy Resources Peoples Energy Cooperative
TABLE SPONSORS Altra Federal Credit Union | Benike Construction | Boldt Company | Bolton & Menk, Inc. | Hawkins Ash CPAs Home Federal Savings Bank | ISG | Loam Commercial Real Estate LLC | MBT Bank | Minnwest Bank Olmsted County | ONB Bank | Premier Bank Minnesota | Realty Growth Inc | Rochester Motor Cars Rochester Public Utilities | RSP Architects | Sterling State Bank | Think Bank | Weis Builders, Inc.
APRIL 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 19
KEY BUILDERS, INC.
Meet the Member
Meet the Member: Key Builders, Inc. Each month, we learn from a Chamber member about their offerings, history, a unique fact, and their business outlook
What's the key to success? At Key Builders, they have a dozen keys to success that lay the foundation of their business. This includes talent, dedication, attention to detail, and honesty making them the value engineering experts. We spoke to Project Manager, Rich West, to learn more about Key Builders, Inc.
Q: Tell us about Key Builders, Inc. What does your company offer to the Rochester region? A: Key Builders, Inc. specializes in all sizes commercial, multi-family, and retail style construction projects. Key Builders was put together with a group of well talented, experienced, and diverse individuals with experience in many types and styles of construction with over 75 years of service in the industry.
20 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
KEY BUILDERS INC.
Meet the Member
With our diversity in construction, we can handle projects as small as replacing a door to multi-million-dollar projects. Retail style construction projects have encompassed retail, restaurants, daycare centers, and tenant improvements to existing spaces. Q: How did it start for Key Builders? A : Key Builders started with 4 individuals who wanted to break out on their own away from big corporations. The business model used, and still used today, is a general contractor with low overhead dedicated to quality and safety. As the company has grown, we’ve taken on more complex projects in the area. Q: Key Builders has been a member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce since 2005. What do you find valuable in your membership to the organization? A: With any community, having the availability to network with others is very important. Being able to use the Chamber to network with other sub-contractors on various projects has been very beneficial to our success. We’ve been able to build relationships with not only sub- contractors, but clients as well.
Q: What is a unique fact people should know about Key Builders? A: Associates and tradesman working at Key Builders approach each project as if it were their own building. Our carpenters are very skilled craftsman who have the skills to complete some of the most intricate finish carpentry. We strive to have an open, honest communication with not only our clients, but also our sub- contractors to ensure everyone is on the same page. Q: What is the outlook for your business and industry? A: We believe the future is bright for construction. Rochester is a unique and special area to live and work. With the medical field being a major contributor to the economy, this opens possibilities for other businesses to grow and flourish, which brings opportunities for new construction and renovations of existing buildings to fit the needs of businesses.
To learn more about Key Builders, visit www.keybuildersinc.com
HEY, ROCHESTER! Symmetrical gigabit fiber internet is available in your area!
Contact Metronet today for details and special offers.
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Jill Cordes 507•516•6412 Jill.Cordes@metronet.com metronetbusiness.com
APRIL 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 21
It's Time to Par Tee The Chamber's un-fore-gettable & sold out Annual Golf Outing is coming up soon!
The Annual Chamber Golf Outing will take place on Wednesday, June 12th at the beautiful Willow Creek Golf Course. We have a full par-tee with teams sold out! The day will be filled with great networking, good food and exciting golf. The team with the lowest score will be awarded the President’s Cup. Put your golf score to the test against our four time reigning champions - Merchants Bank!
AGENDA • Registration: 9:30am - 11:00am • Shotgun Start: 11:00am • Dinner and Awards: 5:00pm - 7:00pm Date: Wednesday, June 12, 2024 Time: 9:30am-7:00pm Location: Willow Creek Golf Course 1700 48th ST SW, Rochester
Admission: SOLD OUT! Contact Ally Sheehan at asheehan@rochestermnchamber.com to be added to the waitlist Learn more by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3vtoOJ1
We are excited to announce our presenting sponsor, KBS Companies !
Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact Ally Sheehan at asheehan@rochestermnchamber.com
Event Sponsors
PRESENTING
EAGLE
BIRDIE
CART
MULLIGAN
DRINK CART
LUNCH & DINNER
PUTTING GREEN
DRIVING RANGE
TEE PRIZE
HOLE
Altra Federal Credit Union CLA Custom Alarm
EVEN Hotels / Staybridge Suites F & M Community Bank Home2 Suites by Hilton KIMT-TV
McCaren Designs Olmsted Medical Center Premier Bank Minnesota Reagan Outdoor Advertising Think Bank Weller Brothers Landscaping
DBS Group, LLC Eagle Rock Bank EO Johnson Business Technologies
KNXR - Minnesota 97.5 La Crosse Sign Group
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
AM Espresso is a monthly Networking PLUS event brought to you by the Chamber. Come join fellow Chamber and community members to expand your network, promote your business, and enjoy delicious breakfast refreshments. We believe there is value for all in building a supportive business community.
APRIL HOST
MAY HOST
In April, join us at Schmidt Goodman! Schmidt Goodman provides innovative commercial furniture products and solutions for healthcare, education, and business clients throughout Southeastern Minnesota, Northern Iowa, and Western Wisconsin. They integrate space planning, furniture, design, and installation solutions to create unique, inspiring & functional workspaces.
In May, join us at Boys & Girls Club, co-hosted by Supporting Strategies! Boys & Girls Club is changing lives of young people in Rochester MN, empowering them to reach their full potential as productive, responsible, & caring community members. Supporting Strategies provides bookkeeping & controller services integrating people, process & cloud based technology that sets us apart from other bookkeeping solutions.
Date: Friday, April 5, 2024 Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Date: Friday, May 3, 2024 Time: 7:30am-9:00am
Location: Schmidt Goodman, 1920 N Broadway Ave, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested
Location: Boys & Girls Club, 1026 E Center St, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/49CtjjQ
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/430Ews0
24 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
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.
APRIL HOST
MAY HOST
In April, Business After Hours is sponsored by Rochester Magazine & Post Bulletin! Rochester Magazine: Your Life, Your City, Your Magazine! Rochester Magazine is the mostly widely read & most widely distributed magazine in the area, averaging 56,000 readers per issue. Post Bulletin: SE MN's largest daily newspaper and most visited news website – the P-B reports on the things that matter most to local residents. Readership = 80,000+, monthly average of 460,000 online users.
In May, join us at Haley Comfort Systems! Since 1990, Haley Comfort Systems has grown to provide our community with a wide variety of solutions for our homes. They offer the latest trends and technology in HVAC, Fireplaces, Lighting, Plumbing, and Electric. Come and connect, make new connections, expand your network, and build community while enjoying the space at Haley Comfort Systems.
Date: Thursday, May 16, 2024 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Haley Comfort Systems 3708 N Broadway Ave, Ste 150, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested
Date: Thursday, April 18, 2024 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Post Bulletin,
1700 Greenview Drive SW, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3InbZDr
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4a1Ihjj
APRIL 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 25
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
Hear From Local Leaders Learn the City, County, Parks Department, and Public Schools priorities for 2024
Event Sponsors PRESENTING
Join Rochester representatives from the City, the County, the Parks Department and the Public Schools to learn about their upcoming 2024 initiatives, challenges, and priorities during Local Government Connect! This event is a great opportunity to connect with Rochester leadership for insight into the initiatives impacting our local business community. AGENDA Agenda subject to change. • 7:30am: Registration/breakfast served • 8:00am: Welcome • 8:05 - 8:20am: Olmsted County • Sheila Kiscaden, Board Chair, Olmsted County Board of Commissioners • Heidi Welsch, County Administrator, Olmsted County • 8:20am – 8:35am: Rochester Public Schools • Cathy Nathan, Board Chair, Rochester Public Schools • Dr. Kent Pekel, Superintendent, Rochester Public Schools • 8:35am – 8:50am: City of Rochester Parks Department • Paul Widman, Director of Parks and Recreation, City of Rochester • 8:50am – 9:05 am: City of Rochester • Brooke Carlson, Council President, City of Rochester • Alison Zelms, City Administrator, City of Rochester • 9:05 – 9:30am: Q&A – Panel Discussion Date: Tuesday, April 30, 2024 Time: 7:30am-10:00am Location: Chateau Theatre 15 1st St SW, Rochester Admission: $40 for members, $50 for general admission, registration required by Monday, April 22 Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/49ZHwY2
GOLD
SILVER
PRODUCTION
TABLE EVEN Hotels & Staybridge Suites
26 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
Employee Assistant Programs
Employee Assistant Programs (EAPs) can help employees with personal obstacles that affect their job performance. EAPs can pinpoint and address a wide variety of health, financial, and social issues, including mental and/or substance use conditions. Join the Rochester Chamber, Benike Construction, Olmsted County, and Think Bank on Wednesday morning, May 8th to learn more about EAPs and how you can bring them into your business practices. • Office and field staff EAPs, ‘BE Well’ Program • Ashleigh Dowis, Family Service Rochester • Importance of EAPs in the workplace • Shaylene Baumbach, Olmsted County • Community-wide EAPs, ‘CredibleMind’ Program • Theresa White, Think Bank • In-house mental health employee practices Location: People's Energy Cooperative, 1775 Lake Shady Avenue South, Oronoco Admission: Free for members, $10 for general admission, registration required Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3SPINcU SPEAKERS • Mike Benike, Benike Construction Date: Wednesday, May 8, 2024 Time: 9:00am-10:30am
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: April 19, 2024 and May 17, 2024 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Conference Room, 220 S Broadway, Suite 100 , Rochester Admission: Free, registration required Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/40UL8Xi
Event Sponsors PRESENTING
Event Sponsors
SERIES
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28 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
Chamber News
GROW YOUR IMPACT, APPLY FOR LEADERSHIP GREATER ROCHESTER by Tuesday, April 30 at www.rochestermnchamber.com/ leadership-greater-rochester
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 the Saint Mary’s University - Rochester Campus. 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! Dates: Friday, June 28, 2024 Friday, July 26, 2024 Friday, August 23, 2024 Time: 11:30am-1:00pm Location: Saint Mary’s University - Rochester Campus, 2900 19th Street NW, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/40UL8Xi
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UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
Connect, Learn, and Develop Grow professionally and expand your network at the RYT Network Summit
Date: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 Time: 12:00pm-4:00pm Location: Rochester International Event Center, 7333 Airport View Dr SW, Rochester Admission: $40 for RYT Network members, $50 for Chamber members, $60 for general admission, registration required by Tuesday, April 30 Table: $350 for a reserved table of 8 plus company name in promotion of event, contact Kaytlyn Anzivino at kaytlyna@rochestermnchamber.com if interested
The RYT Network is excited to bring to you its first-ever RYT Network Summit for RYT Network members, Chamber members, and community members in the Rochester area who are seeking to grow professionally and expand their network. The conference promises to be an energizing and engaging experience, with opportunities to hear from inspiring speakers, create meaningful connections, and develop leadership skills. PEP TALK (PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCES PANEL) Additional panelists will be announced online. • Dr. Jeffery Boyd, President, Rochester Community and Technical College • William Forsman, Co-Owner / Head Dishwasher, Cafe Steam
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3NNa7XK
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KEYNOTE SPEAKER Paul Long, Speaker, Author,
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Podcaster and Master of Shenanigans Paul spent over a decade successfully leading teams and being responsible for $30M in annual revenue while
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serving as a strategist for employee engagement and customer relations nationwide. Paul’s practical, yet rich FUNdamentals provide business audiences with tactical solutions for growth by helping individuals and teams change their perspective and create more fulfillment in business and life. Paul has shared his inspiring FUNdamentals with PayPal, Sysco, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and more.
Rochester Motor Cars TABLE SPONSOR
30 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
Squeeze the Day With Lemonade Help us empower today's youth to be tomorrow's entrepreneurs
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Lemonade Day is a free, fun, experiential learning program that teaches local youth entrepreneurial and life skills as they learn how to start their very own business. Learn how to develop a business and experience all the aspects of developing and maintaining a business such as creating a product, establishing a budget, designing a marketing plan, and so much more! The foremost objective of Lemonade Day is to empower youth to take ownership of their lives and become productive members of society – the business leaders, social advocates, volunteers, and forward thinking citizens of tomorrow. Each child that registers receives access to the Lemonade Day curriculum that teaches them lessons like creating budgets, setting profit-making goals, serving customers, repaying investors, and giving back to the community. Along the way, they acquire skills in goal-setting, problem solving, and gain self-esteem critical for future success. They keep all the money they make and are encouraged to spend some, save some and share some. Support local young entrepreneurs on Saturday, June 8 by going around the Rochester area and stopping at lemonade stands!
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Date: Saturday, June 8, 2024 Location: Rochester, MN Admission: Free, registration required
Learn more about Lemonade Day at lemonadeday.org/rochester-mn
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People’s Energy Cooperative Sylvan Learning of Rochester Velair Property Management
APRIL 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 31
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
Calendar of Events View and register all Chamber events at www.rochestermnchamber.com/events
8 Business Development Exchange (BDX) - Employee Assistant Programs (EAPs) Time: 9:00am-10:30am Location: TBD 14 RYT Network Summit Time: 12:00pm-4:00pm Location: Rochester International Event Center 16 Business After Hours - Haley Comfort Systems Time : 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Haley Comfort Systems 17 Women’s Roundtable Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce 23 WE Forum - Social Connect Time: 4:30pm-6:00pm Location: The Tap House - West End JUNE 8 Lemonade Day Location: Rochester, MN 12 Annual Golf Outing Time: 9:30am-7:00pm Location: Willow Creek Golf Course 20 WE Forum - Panel Discussion Time: 8:00am-9:00am Location: Saint Mary's University - Rochester Campus 21 Women's Roundtable Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce
27 Business After Hours - AAA Minnesota/Iowa Time : 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: AAA Minnesota/Iowa 28 Chamber Weekend Kickoff Time: 11:30am-1:00pm Location: Saint Mary's University - Rochester Campus JULY 12 AM Espresso - Benedictine Living Community Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Benedictine Living Community 18 Business After Hours - The Berkman Time : 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: The Berkman 19 Women’s Roundtable Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce 26 Chamber Weekend Kickoff Time: 11:30am-1:00pm Location: Saint Mary's University - Rochester Campus
APRIL 5 AM Espresso - Schmidt Goodman Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Schmidt Goodman 6 Candidate Training - Session 3 Time: 9:00am-12:00pm Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce 18 WE Forum - Workshop Time: 11:30am-1:00pm Location: Saint Mary's University - Rochester Campus 18 Business After Hours - Rochester Magazine & Post Bulletin Time : 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Rochester Magazine & Post Bulletin 19 Women’s Roundtable Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce 25 2024 Workforce Development Forum Time: 11:30am-4:30pm Location: Rochester International Event Center 30 Local Government Connect Time: 7:30am-10:30am Location: Chateau Theatre MAY 3 AM Espresso - Boys and Girls Club & Supporting Strategies Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Boys & Girls Club
AUGUST
2 AM Espresso - Rochester Civic Theater Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester Civic Theater 13 Business After Hours - Premier Bank Block Party Time : 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Premier Bank
34 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
Chamber News
Apply for Leadership Greater Rochester by April 30 Grow your impact, apply for the Leadership Greater Rochester class of 2025
Applications for the Leadership Greater Rochester class of 2025 (Aug. ’24-May ’25) will be accepted through Tuesday, April 30th. Leadership Greater Rochester is the region’s premier leadership development program. Since 1987, the Chamber's Leadership Greater
This 10-month program immerses three dozen leaders in sessions examining everything from economic development and the local arts scene, to workforce development and building a sustainable community. Through enriching conversations, behind-the-scenes tours, and work on the Community Impact Projects, the LGR experience builds lifelong relationships and provides opportunities for business and community leaders to shape and contribute to the
(LGR) program has propelled leaders in the community to further be inspired, connected and enlightened. The 1,000+ alumni who have graduated from LGR have gone on to serve in various civic, community, and business leadership positions. The LGR network stretches across the community, present in almost every sector.
fabric of the greater Rochester area.
Learn more and apply online at www.rochestermnchamber. com/leadership-greater-rochester
Chamber Announces Educator Industry Exploration Program Offering educators a unique opportunity to gain first-hand experience and knowledge of local industry career pathways
The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce a new addition to our workforce initiatives. Alongside our STEAM Summit, this program initiative strives to offer educators a unique opportunity to engage with local businesses in various industries such as trades, manufacturing, healthcare, and more. Through these interactions, educators will gain first-hand experience and knowledge of career pathways in these fields, which they can then incorporate into their teaching curriculum to inform their students of in-demand career opportunities.
To learn more please contact Kaytlyn Anzivino at kaytlyna@rochestermnchamber.com.
APRIL 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 35
Connecting Young Professionals Join the RYT Network today to create connections and develop professionally RYT Network (Rochester Area Young Talent Network) is a program that provides opportunities for young talent of the region to create connections, develop professionally and personally, and build relationships with industry, community, and the talent of tomorrow! Since its launch, the RYT Network has been incredibly active. RYT Network members will have access to two monthly events. Details about the events including registration information is received through email newsletters. EVENTS By joining the RYT Network, young talent members can participate in: • Networking events such as speed networking, pickleball, bowling, social hour, & more • Community and industry engagement activities such as volunteering, behind the scene tours of industries, & CEO Connections • Professional and career development sessions on topics such as budgeting, networking tips, perfect elevator pitch, & more • Annual signature events like the upcoming RYT Network Summit LEARN MORE If you have questions or would like to learn more, please visit www.rochestermnchamber.com/ryt or contact Kaytlyn Anzivino at kaytlyna@rochestermnchamber.com.
Networking & Elevator Pitch Professional Development Workshop
Speed Networking
CEO Connections
Program Gold Sponsors
Pickleball Social Night
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36 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
Chamber News
Chamber Welcomes New Staff
Olivia Kloster joins the Rochester Chamber of Commerce as the Policy & Communications Director.
Originally from Denver, Colorado, Olivia earned her degree in Communications with a concentration in Strategic Communications from Ottawa University in the spring of 2023. Her fervor for government relations and policy, spanning local, state, and federal levels, evolved through pivotal roles such as Director of Ottawa Main Street Association, Kansas State Capitol Legislative Monitor, and Local Media Representative for KOFO Radio. In 2023, Olivia's exceptional contributions to media relations in Kansas were recognized with the esteemed "NexGen Under 30" award, a testament to her unwavering dedication, expertise, and statewide impact. Now, in her role as the Policy and Communications Director for the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, Olivia is enthusiastic about applying her skills and knowledge to the Chamber's influence, contributing to the continual dynamic growth of Rochester and its surrounding communities. Welcome to the team Olivia!
Olivia Kloster, Policy & Communications Director
Chamber Announces Staff Promotion
Ally Sheehan has been promoted to Senior Director, Events and Programs for the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce.
Ally has introduced a number of events to the Chamber, including the beloved Kickball Tournament and Lemonade Day. Year over year, there has been an increase in event attendees, such as the STEAM Summit which saw an additional 2,158 students in 2023 vs 2022. The Annual Golf Tournament, a long time cherished event, has sold out faster each year under Ally with 2024 setting the record at an hour. Thank you Ally for all your contributions to the business community and the Chamber! In this role, Ally will continue her work with events and programs, and expand into helping the whole team with logistics, details, and implementation of all Chamber events and programs.
Ally Sheehan, Senior Director, Events & Programs
Ally says she is honored to support and mentor the team in the development of events and programs. She is excited to continue to grow her own event management skills.
Congratulations Ally!
Read the 2024 Rochester Area Community Guide & Chamber Directory Scan the QR code or visit www.rochestermnchamber.com/community-guide
APRIL 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 37
Chamber News
Chamber Seeks Board of Director Nominations
The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the 2024 Nominating Committee! Thank you to the following business leaders who have volunteered to serce on the committee to select new Directors joining the Chamber Board of Directors in October 2024:
The Chamber is currently seeking nominations of area business community leaders to serve on the Chamber's Board of Directors. To forward a nomination or to learn more, please contact Ryan Parsons at rparsons@rochestermnchamber.com
Heather Barness Velair Property Management
John Eckerman RSP Architects
Josh Haynes Smart-HR
Chad Launderville Hy-Vee
Susan Mackert PossAbilities
38 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
Community News
The annual fundraisers spearheaded by volunteer workplace champions at each company help UWOC achieve our mission of uniting local people and resources to ensure everyone in our community has what they need to thrive.
Workplaces Help United Way Create Change in Rochester
For decades, workplace giving has been the driving force behind United Way of Olmsted County’s (UWOC) work. As of February 2024, United Way's 2023 Workplace Giving Campaign has raised over $2,000,000! This is only possible through the support of over 100 local businesses and organizations that run a workplace giving campaign. During the 2023 Workplace Giving Campaign, workplace champions at participating companies coordinated a variety of opportunities for their colleagues to have fun at amazing kick-off and post-campaign events, volunteer with local United Way partners, and more. These events helped employees get engaged with United Way, our nonprofit partners, and our mission, inspiring employees to give back to United Way and other local organizations that are making a difference in our community. The organizations that raised the most dollars in 2023 were Mayo Clinic, IBM, Rochester Public Schools, Olmsted County, McNeilus, Scheels, City of Rochester, RSM, GEOTEK, and Boldt. Thank you for believing in UWOC’s important work and for investing in your local community.
The annual fundraisers spearheaded by volunteer workplace champions at each company help UWOC achieve our mission of uniting local people and resources to ensure everyone in our community has what they need to thrive. The $2,000,000+ raised will help us impact over 40,000 Southeast Minnesotans through programs such as our Running Start for School backpack and supply drive and 211 resource and referral line , as well as our variety of grantmaking efforts. When we come together, we can connect our neighbors with better access to health services, increased economic stability, and high-quality education. Thank you to all the companies that continue to make our work possible. For more information about workplace giving or to get involved, visit www.uwolmsted.org/uwoc-campaign or contact Stephanie Rudeen, Vice President of Resource Development, at stephanier@uwolmsted.org.
APRIL 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 39
Community News
Cascade Park: From Project to Party How an Architect's personal and professional life combined on a meanigful project
Yiming Guan, Architect at TSP, celebrated a family milestone in a building he designed.
We often try to keep our personal and professional lives separate, which is generally a good idea. However, when it comes to happy moments, combining a bit of work and home seems just fine. Yiming Guan did that, by celebrating a family milestone in a building he designed. The recently completed improvements at Cascade Lake Park in Rochester represent Yiming’s first major project at TSP. With that, and some good timing, Yiming and his wife, Lin, decided it would be the perfect location to celebrate their daughter, Yila’s, first birthday. Cascade Lake Park offers a near-downtown experience for park users and visitors. The work completed by the TSP + Schuler Shook + Stantec team includes a pavilion, a new amphitheater, and related site improvements. The event hall at the pavilion features a year-round center to host multipurpose events serving Rochester and nearby communities. The amphitheater is an open-air stage and uses Cascade Lake as a backdrop for theatrical performances, concerts, and other park programming and event support. “I have been very excited about this project from the get-go because I knew this was going to be my first signed project at TSP,” Yiming said. The Cascade Lake Park project was very meaningful, Yiming explained, because of the trust given to him by the TSP leadership team. “I had a lot of freedom to work with the owner to design buildings that they like, and I also like,” he said.
He also appreciated the amount of detail
that went into the project and the opportunity to work with disciplines such as MEP, interior design, and various consultants. “I really tried to fine-tune everything,” he said. Rochester Principal Von Petersen noted that Yiming’s straightforward communication style helps move a project forward. "He can say, ‘this is what we’ve got to do, and here’s why we’ve got to do it,’” Von said. That skill set was particularly helpful for Cascade Lake Park, which faced significant reductions in the original project scope. “His approach to keeping important things in the project, while at the same time reducing significant costs was very good,” Von said. At Yila’s birthday party, many people were asking Yiming about the Cascade Lake Park improvements, and if the pavilion space could be rented for future events. “That’s impressive,” Yiming said. “That means we did a good job.” The first year of parenthood goes by fast! The interrupted sleep patterns that every parent endures took getting used to, Yiming said. “But when I think back to that, it seems like many years ago,” he said. “You forget about the pain and the no-sleep nights. What you remember is all the fun and the precious moments you have with this girl.”
40 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — APRIL 2024
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