A ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATION
AUGUST 2024
TABLE OF CONTENTS
August 2024 Advantage Magazine
What’s Inside
4
FEATURE Lemonade Day: Empowering Young Entrepreneurs to Turn Lemons into Profits
LEMONADE DAY
4
12
FEATURE 2024 Legislative Session Review
18
NON-PROFIT SPOTLIGHT Brains Together
20
MEET THE MEMBER Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's
22
CHAMBER NEWS • Events
• Empowering Young Talent • Sponsorship Opportunities • Connecting Candidates & Commerce • Chamber Welcomes New Staff & Announces Staff Promotion • Intercity Visit Launches • Leadership Greater Rochester Class of 2025 Announced COMMUNITY NEWS • Mayo Clinic Hospitals Score A Grades For Patient Safety • Soldiers Field Aquatics Center Opens • Labor Force Participation Rate Steady; Unemployment Rate Ticks Up • Rochester's Growth Highlighted
LEGISLATIVE SESSION REVIEW
12
42
44
NEWSREEL New Roles and Celebrations
46
RIBBON CUTTINGS Grand Openings, Anniversaries, New Members, and Other Celebrations
BRAINS TOGETHER
SORELLINA'S ITALIAN
18
20
47
NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the Chamber
2 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2024
CHAMBER STAFF & BOARD
August 2024 Advantage Magazine
Chamber Staff
CHAMBER PRESIDENT, Ryan Parsons | 507-288-1122
SENIOR DIRECTOR, MEMBERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT Kali Aldrich | 507-424-5665 DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & OPERATIONS Michaela Freyler | 507-424-5699 WORKFORCE INITIATIVES & RYT NETWORK DIRECTOR Claire Henneman | 507-424-5662
POLICY & COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Olivia Kloster | 507-424-5666 SENIOR DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Jonathon Krull | 507-424-5677
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
AUGUST 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 3
Today’s entrepreneurs have much to be proud of, including the groups that have supported their growth from a young age. Many business owners were bitten by the entrepreneurial bug early in life. To nurture this spirit, Lemonade Day offers a free, fun, experiential program that teaches youth how to start, own, and operate their very own business—a lemonade stand. Each year, participating cities across the world empower today’s youth to be tomorrow’s entrepreneurs. The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce presented the third annual Lemonade Day to the Rochester, Minnesota area, expanding this year to officially include Byron and Stewartville. This year, over 380 participants registered, including many new and returning families, as well as some youth groups for Lemonade Day in the Rochester area which took place on Saturday, June 8. “They 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,” Ally Sheehan, Senior Director, Events & Programs at the Chamber, and Lemonade Day City Director said.
LEMONADE DAY
Feature
With Lemonade Day in its third year, the entire Chamber team were particularly excited about the use of the My Lemonade Day app.
The valuable lessons of Lemonade Day include setting a goal, making a plan, working the plan, and
achieving their dreams. Once a youth pays their investor back, they keep all the money they earn and
"It is also fun to see some participants year after year bring new items to their stand, make their stand even bigger than the last or even try new recipes. It has become a staple in some family’s summer plans."
As Sheehan explained, this was an alternative/ addition to the workbook that the participants received to help walk
are encouraged to spend some, save some, and share some of their profit.
them through the lessons. “Participants have access to lessons, tips and tricks through the app and workbook that helps walk them through the process of starting their business.” Sheehan said.
This year, Jesse, father of two boys who participated in Lemonade Day for the second
year, developed their idea for "Lemonade Paradise, Seriously Delicious". As
parent of Lemonade Day participants, Jesse found the program as a valuable way to create dialog with his children around entrepreneurial and business concepts in a very discrete time-boxed way.
With the app, families learn from Lemmy, the mascot of Lemonade Day and his friends. The resources guided participants through the journey of planning, launching, and operating a business.
TRUSTED ADVISOR We worked with everybody, from the architects to the engineers to the designers — stuff they had expertise in that I didn’t even know that I needed to know about. They were there with me the whole way.
Kim Eisenmann Director of Maternal Child Health, Columbus Community Hospital
6 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2024
LEMONADE DAY
Feature
AUGUST 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 7
LEMONADE DAY
Feature
"I learned about the cost of my supplies, and I created a budget. I made yard signs. I also went around my neighborhood to let my neighbors know about my stand."
"The provided curriculum through the free app is very interactive and engaging, great for sparking age- appropriate discussions about business fundamentals and requires almost no preparation for parents," Jesse says. "The app makes it easy to dive in over a few sessions to fully prepare a game plan." His sons ended up equally dividing their profits into a high interest savings account, purchasing LEGO ® bricks, and donating to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Due to the resounding success in previous years, this year’s Lemonade Day expanded into the Byron and Stewartville areas. “It has been exciting to see Lemonade Day grow in Rochester and we welcomed the opportunity to expand the program officially to the young entrepreneurs of Byron and Stewartville,” Sheehan said.
“It is also fun to see some participants year after year bring new items to their stand, make their stand even bigger than the last or even try new recipes. It has become a staple in some family’s summer plans.” Not only does this program help young entrepreneurs on starting their own business, but brings together the community for a fun day of purchasing lemonade from over 70 stands. Local youth were excited to see their turnout including visits from Lemmy and the Rochester Police Department and Rochester Police Athletic/Activities League. This year, the Chamber had the honor of hosting National Lemonade Day representative Samantha, who toured the town and visited as many lemonade stands as possible.
8 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2024
LEMONADE DAY
Feature
• Lemon Twist Sponsor – Casa de Corazón, Home Federal Savings Bank, MetroNet, People’s Energy Cooperative, Sylvan Learning of Rochester, Velair Property Management • Media Sponsor – KTTC • Radio Media Sponsor – iHeartMedia and Townsquare Media Alaine Westra, Vice President of Community Impact at Think Bank and the main squeeze sponsor of this year’s Lemonade Day, highlighted the sense of community Lemonade Day inspires. “Young entrepreneurs, friendly neighbors and neighborhoods, and the business community come together for a “sweet” day,” Westra said. “As a sponsor, it’s a joy to support Lemonade Day as
The Chamber had a caravan bus, provided by Casa de Corazón, that drove around and visited stands as a large group before they split up to visit subsequent stands. “Samantha had a great time in our community and loved to see all the participants in action,” Sheehan said. Rochester’s Lemonade Day wouldn’t be possible without the strong support from the Chamber and community businesses, including: • Main Squeeze Sponsor – Think Bank • Fresh Squeeze Sponsor – Altra Federal Credit Union, Hy-Vee, Mayo Clinic, Shorewood Senior Campus • Lemon Drop Sponsor – Olmsted Medical Center, Rochester Athletic Club, Wings Credit Union, Workshop Food Hall & Bar
AUGUST 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 9
LEMONADE DAY
Feature
it provides a fun, experience-driven opportunity for youth in our area to discover and grow their entrepreneurial skills. As an organization, Think Bank helps people meet their money and this is a great opportunity to help youth in our community start that learning process.” One of this year’s participants, Felicity, age 9, invited her friends to help with her entrepreneurial efforts. “My lemonade stand was in my neighborhood. I worked really hard at making my supplies. I squeezed lemons and made ice cubes,” Felicity said. “I learned about the cost of my supplies, and I created a budget. I made yard signs. I also went around my neighborhood to let my neighbors know about my stand.” Wendy Letran at Casa de Corazón, another sponsor of this year’s program, expressed their enjoyment in supporting young entrepreneurs and driving their bus around for the Chamber caravan to visit stands on Lemonade Day. “The value of the program is the opportunity to participate in our community, get to know other people and taste that delicious lemonade,” Letran said.
Looking ahead, next year’s Lemonade Day will continue to expand into the Byron and Stewartville communities for registration and visibility. “We will continue to find businesses willing to be Sweet Spots for participants to set up their stands at on Lemonade Day,” Sheehan said. “The Sweet Spot Program has been going on for two years now. Sweet Spots are designed to help youth entrepreneurs sign up for high-traffic locations in our community for Lemonade Day. Sweet Spots are created through business partnerships throughout the city to help youth achieve sweet success.”
Save the date for the next Lemonade Day on Saturday, June 7, 2025!
"As a sponsor, it’s a joy to support Lemonade Day as it provides a fun, experience-driven opportunity for youth in our area to discover and grow their entrepreneurial skills."
10 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2024
All of the information you need to make your voice heard this election
Registering to Vote MATTERS In Minnesota, it’s easy to register to vote - or update your registration - at any time, including on election day. You must register in order to vote!
Absentee Voting MATTERS Voting absentee is a quick and easy way to make your vote count. You can sign up for permanent absentee voting and track the process of your ballot online.
Early Voting MATTERS
Early voting is an opportunity to cast your vote when you can, not just on election day. There are easy opportunities via mail or in person.
Register to Vote:
Vote Early:
Absentee Vote:
Minnesota’s 2024 Voting Timeline
Primary Election August 13
General Election Early Voting September 20 - November 4 Citizens can vote early in the general election by absentee ballot or in person in several locations. Check your voting location for available hours.
Primary Early Voting
June 28 - August 12 Citizens can vote early in the primary by absentee ballot or in person in several locations. Check your voting location for available hours.
This is your chance to help decide which candidates will be on the ballot in November’s general election,
both in partisan and nonpartisan offices.
Primary Candidate Forums July 22 - 30 The Rochester League of Women Voters, Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, and The Post Bulletin are partnering to hold Candidate Forums. For times and more information visit, RochesterMNChamber.com
General Candidate Forums September 9 - 26 The Rochester League of Women Voters, Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, and The Post Bulletin are partnering to hold Candidate Forums. For times and more information visit, RochesterMNChamber.com
General Election November 5
ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 11
2024 LEGISLATIVE SESSION REVIEW Hear from local legislators about the 2024 legislative session and the impacts to the business community. The 2024 legislative session concluded in dramatic fashion on May 19th as the midnight deadline passed. This chaotic end featured the introduction of a 1,430-page omnibus bill just 15 minutes before the session's end, packed with nine additional bills. Despite the contentious conclusion, the lack of a bonding bill, and some of our priorities not crossing the finish line, there are still many successes to celebrate.
DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in the Representative's and Senator’s responses are the sole views of their own. They do not reflect the opinions or views of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce or its members. The publication of the Representative's and Senator’s statements therein do not imply the expression of any endorsement whatsoever by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce or its members. At the time of publication, a response was not available from Rep. Duane Quam (District 24A).
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW RESTORATION OF P-TECH FUNDING
This law mandates the increase of the minimum wage to $10.85 across the board, eliminates exemptions for small businesses, seasonal employers, and the hospitality industry, and increases the annual inflator from 2.5% up to 5%. With the market already driving competitive wages, this one-size-fits-all minimum wage, coupled with the increased inflator cap, disproportionately impacts our small business community, exacerbating the existing challenges of rising costs and increased taxation. DEFEATED PROPOSALS Several proposals that would have further strained the business community were successfully defeated this session. A proposed 5% broadband tax that would have allowed governmental units to impose a tax on broadband services did not pass. Additionally, a proposal to create a MinnesotaCare public option was also defeated. Had this bill passed, doctors and healthcare providers would have seen minimal payments for services, jeopardizing healthcare access, especially in rural areas. THE BONDING BILL SETBACK Despite it being a bonding year, the legislature failed to pass a compromise bonding bill. This was particularly disappointing as a key priority of the Chamber’s 2024 legislative agenda was the support of local bonding projects. Projects such as interchanges on Highway 14 at CSAH 3 and CSAH 5, solar parking at Rochester International Airport, Olmsted County’s Next Gen Resource Recovery facility, and many others went unfunded due to this. The Chamber will continue to work with our legislators to champion these beneficial projects for the community in the next session. CONTINUED ADVOCACY AND ENGAGEMENT Throughout the ups and downs of the 2024 legislative session, the Chamber made a concentrated effort to strengthen our relationships with local delegation members and legislative leadership, including Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson and House Minority Leader Lisa Demuth. The willingness of our delegation and legislative leadership to discuss legislation and its impact on the business community was crucial in achieving several items on our legislative agenda. We extend our gratitude to our legislators and businesses for their continued engagement with our advocacy efforts this session!
One of the major achievements this year was the restoration of P-TECH funding for Rochester Public Schools. Last session, changes to the P-TECH state funding structure left Rochester’s P-TECH facing a funding cliff. Initially, a small, temporary fix was proposed to phase out state funding over a multi- year period through 2027. This proposal was then incorporated into HF5237, the House Education Supplemental Budget Bill. The Chamber took action and urged local lawmakers to accept an amendment that ensures Rochester receives $971,000 in FY’25, $500,000 in FY’26, and $250,000 in FY’27 which was a large increase from what was previously proposed. The Chamber was pleased to see this success, as P-TECH not only benefits students but also serves as a crucial resource for the local business community, providing education tailored to in-demand career pathways that meet workforce needs. LICENSURE COMPACTS Another significant win was the passage of HF4247, which established licensure compacts for professions with strong workforce needs, including licensed professional counselors, dentists and dental hygienists, physician assistants, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and social workers. These compacts streamline the licensure process, enabling qualified professionals from neighboring states to practice in Minnesota, both in person and through telepractice. By doing so, we alleviate workforce shortages, enhance access to essential services, and better serve underserved communities and rural areas. This was a step in the right direction, and the Chamber will continue to advocate for additional licensure compacts for in-demand careers such as nursing. LEGISLATIVE CHALLENGES While the 2024 legislative session lacked the vast number of mandates on the business community seen in 2023, it still hindered businesses' opportunities to succeed and remain competitive on their own accord. In 2024, the legislature made minor tweaks to the paid family medical leave program, which remains an area of serious concern regarding its long-term viability due to soaring costs. This year alone, the anticipated payroll tax to fund the program rose to 0.88%, higher than the original 0.7% initially planned. Additionally, the legislature passed the labor policy omnibus bill, SF3852, which included changes to the minimum wage structure in Minnesota.
Get the Latest Advocacy & Events Updates Sign up for the Chamber's email newsletters by scanning the QR code or visiting https://bit.ly/4cJzOTi
AUGUST 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 13
LEGISLATIVE SESSION REVIEW
Feature
Sen. Liz Boldon DISTRICT 25
Rep. Kim Hicks DISTRICT 25A
Looking back on the 2024 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community? Businesses thrive in healthy, stable communities. That’s why my DFL colleagues and I are
Looking back on the 2024 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community?
I am proud of the work we accomplished during the historic biennium. The 2023 session focused on passing legislation to help Minnesotans succeed. This year, the 2024 session built on those successes by making additional significant progress for families. When legislators center our decision and policy- making decisions on people, we can truly positively impact the quality of life for working Minnesotans and their families. This session, we took important action to assist persons with disabilities, and improve resources for those struggling with mental illness. We also expanded our nation-leading Child Tax Credit and strengthened the Paid Family and Medical Leave law. These measures – and more – help ensure more Minnesotans will become part of the workforce and contribute to our state so we can all thrive. What is a major takeaway from the 2024 session? The 2024 legislative session built on the success of the productive 2023 legislative session. Last year’s transformational budget made it possible for Minnesotans to create a better life for themselves. The 2024 session helped families continue this upward trajectory. Improving our water quality, expanding health insurance coverage, investing in organizations to develop Minnesota’s workforce and help small businesses grow are just a few of the many highlights of the 2024 session. This session, as it is every session, it was important to help our most vulnerable Minnesotans. By improving access to treatment programs, making it easier for people with disabilities to stay in their homes, investing in transitional care options, among other things, we support those who need assistance and help them live a fuller life. We also made it easier to integrate them into the workforce when they are able.
focusing our efforts on making Minnesota the best place to live, work and raise a family - through investments in childcare, education, housing, and workforce development initiatives. This session, I led the work to continue funding of Rochester’s P-TECH program - ensuring that Rochester- Area students are prepared for careers in healthcare and IT and local businesses have strong talent pools from which to recruit. Additionally, Minnesota joined several interstate compact agreements, meaning businesses can better attract people from around the country to fill workforce gaps in healthcare and other careers that are critical to our local economy, like dentistry, physician assistants, occupational therapists, professional counselors, audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and social workers. And with great new programs like Universal Free School Meals and Paid Family Medical Leave, we continue to create and build upon incentives for folks to move to our great state to live and work. What is a major takeaway from the 2024 session? DFLers at the Legislature are taking holistic approaches to the challenges facing our state, and Minnesota has made great progress in the past couple years. After previous years of divided government, gridlock and inaction, we’ve made investments in our communities today that will lead to economic prosperity tomorrow and for years to come. We’re ensuring that Minnesota is a place where everyone can thrive, through a nation-leading child tax credit, historic increases to K-12 funding, affordable higher education, investments in childcare and our workforce, and more. Successful economies are driven by a healthy middle class, and we are laying a great foundation for Minnesota’s future.
14 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2024
LEGISLATIVE SESSION REVIEW
Feature
Rep. Andy Smith DISTRICT 25B
Looking back on the 2024 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community? In the short term, the Bonding Bill which funded over $40 million dollars in projects will
provide work for all kinds of trades in the coming year. In the long term, two huge factors will help us maintain and grow our educated workforce in Minnesota: Paid Family and Medical Leave and the North Star Promise (tuition- free college for students from families making less than $80,000/yr). What is a major takeaway from the 2024 session? The major takeaway from the 2024 session is that gridlock is over at the capitol. The legislature made progress on many fronts: affordable housing, education, infrastructure, transportation, healthcare, homelessness prevention, and tax breaks for working families. It is a good time to be a Minnesotan.
AUGUST 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 15
LEGISLATIVE SESSION REVIEW
Feature
Sen. Carla Nelson DISTRICT 24
Rep. Tina Liebling DISTRICT 24B
Looking back on the 2024 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community? The restoration of P-TECH funding was a major victo- ry. Continuing the program’s
Looking back on the 2024 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community? In 2024 we built on the
success of the 2023 Tax Bill by establishing advanced periodic payments of Minnesota’s nation-leading Child Tax Credit to help families escape poverty. For E-12 education, we strengthened the READ Act and created 5200 new voluntary pre-kindergarten seats beginning in 2025. In health, we continued reforming prior authorization, to remove more unnecessary barriers and allow providers to determine what care is appropriate. SE Minnesota has a serious problem with nitrate contamination in drinking water. The legislature put additional money toward cleaning up nitrates in drinking water and helping to reduce the fertilizer use that causes contamination. Businesses must now use all-inclusive prices. This gives businesses a level playing field and lets consumers compare prices. What is a major takeaway from the 2024 session? Minnesota is growing and outcompeting neighboring states on many metrics. DFL leadership in the Legislature and in the Governor’s office has led to progress in many areas in ways. Responsible regulation and investment in the health and well-being of our population is consistent with economic growth. We all do better when we all do better.
amazingly successful STEM workforce pipeline will reap major rewards for our community. However, the session brought concerning changes to the Paid Family Medcial Leave (PFML) program and Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) laws that will greatly burden small businesses. Despite warnings, PFML costs ballooned to $1.6 billion annually, requiring another payroll tax increase. Small em- ployers now face a 50% higher PFML tax rate than original- ly promised. New ESST penalties, documentation require- ments, and expanded leave uses will increase compliance costs. These workplace mandate changes ignore the reali- ties small businesses face and make it significantly harder to operate, grow, and create jobs. Finally, the ultra-parti- sanship of the 2024 session prevented the legislature from completing another bonding bill that could have funded critical infrastructure projects for the Rochester area. Positive outcomes included stopping a $20 minimum wage, blocking a new health insurance claims tax, and govern- ment-run public health option. We also fixed tax errors from 2023 that would have cost businesses and individuals over $350 million per year. What is a major takeaway from the 2024 session? I've served in both chambers, in both majority and mi- nority, but I've never witnessed anything like the bitter partisanship of the last two years. Divided government may not be easy, but it produces far superior results to unchecked single-party control. The other major takeaway is that one-party control at the state capitol is crushing Minnesota’s small businesses. We have the highest corpo- rate tax rate in the country and the sixth-worst business climate. Rather than improving our economic competitive- ness, we’ve seen a $72 billion spending spree, $10 billion in tax increases, and a raft of new regulations and mandates that have increased costs and burdens for businesses and their employees. These new burdens threaten small em- ployers across the state – especially when combined with uncertainties around additional future tax increases and regulations, and our expensive cost of living. We need a re- turn to balanced government that supports all businesses, employees, and their families.
16 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2024
LEGISLATIVE SESSION REVIEW
Feature
Looking back on the 2024 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community? The cost of doing business in Minnesota is growing out of control, and Democrats Sen. Steve Drazkowski DISTRICT 20
Rep. Steve Jacob DISTRICT 20B
Looking back on the 2024 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community? One notable part of the 1400 page Mega Omnibus bill was SF 4699. This section of the
are simply adding to the burden. The little guys who run small businesses throughout the state are now going to be buried under administrative regulations, red tape, and higher taxes to pay for the extreme agenda Democrats have pursued. They will be paying for thousands of new employees at the state while struggling to make their own payrolls and grow their own businesses. It’s just fundamentally wrong. Now there is a massive rulemaking underway for home daycares so intrusive it threatens the existence of home daycares. It’s hard to see it as anything but snuffing out home daycares in favor of more government run programs. What is a major takeaway from the 2024 session? Single party control has been terrible for Minnesota. Democrats forced more red tape and mandates onto businesses, schools, and local governments – all of which will lead to higher costs for Minnesotans. With all the strings attached to state funding, local governments and schools will be forced to raise property taxes on Minnesotans – adding to the $10 billion of tax increases passed by the state. Democrats were intent on their extreme agenda no matter what. They had little interest in working across the aisle, and no one to stop them. Session ended with Democrats jamming 1400 pages of legislation through the Legislature with no debate, no review, and no check because they could. Their obsession with their own political power is leaving Minnesotans behind.
bill will impact area businesses by increasing the number of insurance mandates which will drive up the cost of health care once again. Minnesota already ranks among the top states with the most amount of insurance coverage mandates. Also: HF 5363 adopted in the Mega Omnibus bill doesn’t make the substantive changes needed to address the operational problems the Paid Family Medical Leave program will face. Nothing in the bill provides meaningful relief. The biggest problem facing our local businesses that resulted from the 2024 session was the lack of any meaningful relief from taxes and burdensome regulations. What is a major takeaway from the 2024 session? 2023 was marked by a very clear focus and agenda from the Democrat party, while 2024 was filled with chaos and disorganization from the Democrats, partly stemming from the development of Democrat Nicole Mitchell being arrested on first degree burglary charges. Those charges greatly complicated issues for Democrats since they only held a razor thin one vote majority. With Democrats full control of the House, the Senate and the Governor’s office, they spent through the entire 18 billion dollar surplus and raised taxes by another 10 billion dollars, growing government by 40%. Even with full control, Democrats failed to deliver on the promise to give $2000 refund checks or to end the tax on social security. The final hours of the 2024 session resulted in Democrats combining massive bills into one enormous 1400 page bill. Through this approach, the Democrat party succeeded in hiding the language of the bill from the public and the members expected to vote on it.
AUGUST 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 17
BRAINS TOGETHER
Non-Profit Spotlight
Non-Profit Spotlight: Brains Together Taking an in-depth look at a local non-profit, Brains Together and their community impact
Tell us about Brains Together Brains Together is a non-profit run entirely by volunteers who want to help patients & families dealing with the diagnosis of a brain tumor. Our mission is to support & empower those affected by brain tumors through meaningful connections, with a shared commitment toward advancing research. What inspired the founding of Brains Together and how has your organization evolved over the years? This organization started in 2007 when my husband was being treated for a brain tumor. Through his treatment I met some wonderful people at Mayo Clinic and together we set our minds to raising a little money for research. Little did we know how far we would take this, funding nearly $1.5 million in research grants here at Mayo Clinic Rochester. At our first fundraiser in 2007 which was advertised primarily by word of mouth, we expected a little over 100 people. Hoping a lot of our friends and family members would show up! We were shocked when over 500 came! It was clear to us that there was a need in this area to support people going through brain tumor treatment and as well who had lost someone. For the last 17 years we have also run a support group for patients & families. We meet virtually the 3rd Saturday of every month. At these meetings we hope to connect people who are in this similar situation and hopefully help each other through their shared experiences. We are also very fortunate to have a physician at each meeting to help answer questions. Please share a highlight of how your organization has impacted the Rochester region We try every year to engage the community by encouraging attendance at our annual event the first weekend of October. We put on a chip timed 5K run and
2- mile walk (run by the Med City Marathon folks) we have face painting, balloon twisters, a silent auction, other activities along with music and a great program after the run/walk is finished. We often have a keynote speaker who is either an author, patient or a family member to share their experience. It’s a very impactful morning of events. We hope that when we bring people together, our event will become a tradition. There are many families that come each year to honor or remember their loved one with a brain tumor. We always hope that we can make an impact and inspire hope. How can the community become involved in the important work Brains Together does? The community of Rochester can help us in many ways! We need volunteers to help with planning our event, for jobs on day of our event, as well as people to help us look to the future of Brains Together. So, if you are interested, please let us know! What’s an interesting fact about Brains Together that most people don’t know? An interesting fact about us is that at our first event, the keynote speaker was Minnesota native Eleanor Mondale, the daughter of Vice President Walter Mondale. She was being treated here at Mayo for a brain tumor. We were thrilled to have her acknowledge the start of this organization. This year’s event is Saturday October 5th, at RCTC. Visit our website www.brainstogetherforacure.org to get more info and register.
18 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2024
AUGUST 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 19
SORELLINA'S ITALIAN BY VICTORIA'S
Meet the Member
Meet the Member: Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's Each month, we learn from a Chamber member about their offerings, history, a unique fact, and their business outlook
Local restaurants are the heart of a community, offering not just meals but a place for people to connect and celebrate. Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's embodies this spirit, providing Rochester with a unique dining experience that blends beloved traditional Italian dishes with innovative new creations. We spoke with Co-Owner, Nadia Victoria, to learn more about Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's. Q: Tell us about the Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's. What does your company offer to the Rochester region and how did it start for Sorellina's? A : Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's is the sister restaurant to Victoria's Italian in downtown Rochester. Victoria's has been in operation since 1997, founded by Sam and Maria Servin, and Sid and Natalie Victoria. Our parents! Jordan and I have worked at Victoria's since childhood, and we saw this as an opportunity to use what we have learned and bring our ideas together to create something unique and special.
20 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2024
SORELLINA'S ITALIAN BY VICTORIA'S
Meet the Member
Photos provided by Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's and taken by Kate Rocca with Pixel Rhode Photography
Q: Sorellina's has been a member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce for over a year. What do you find valuable in your membership to the organization? A: Belonging to the Rochester Chamber of Commerce is an honor. The networking is the best in town. Informational sessions, increased visibility, endless promotional materials, and a strong sense of community! A: Sorellina's offers many of the favorite dishes from the downtown location, as well as our own creations. Sorellina's has a pizza oven, an indoor/outdoor patio, live music, a firepit, and our very own parking lot. We see a lot of families dining, so we are hopeful our popularity among the littles of the family is strong. Q: What is a unique fact people should know about Sorellina's?
Q: What is the outlook for your organization and industry? A: The restaurant industry can be challenging. We believe our best area for growth is catering. We are incredibly proud of our product, and the versatility of it. We currently offer both delivery and pick up.
To learn more about Sorellina's Italian by Victoria's, visit www.sorellinasmn.com
AUGUST 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 21
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.
AUGUST HOST
SEPTEMBER HOST
In August, join us at Rochester Civic Theater! The Rochester Civic Theater is a non-profit organization that educates and enriches the adults and young people of Rochester and SE MN through the production and presentation of live theater, music, and dance.
In September, join us at North Rock Hospitality Group! North Rock Hospitality Group is an entrepreneurial commercial real estate firm who takes an innovative approach to all project processes. With their expertise, clients can expect real estate strategies of all types, sizes and objectives to be delivered with confidence and results. Date: Friday, September 13, 2024 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Residence Inn Rochester Mayo Clinic Area South, 809 16th St SW, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4cv5GLd
Date: Friday, August 2, 2024 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester Civic Theater 30 Civic Center Dr. SE, Ste 100, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3KQ8LcP
22 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 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.
AUGUST HOST
SEPTEMBER HOST
In August, join us at Premier Bank! Premier Bank is a family owned bank with global reach. They hire, serve, and give back to individuals and organizations in their communities. They are grateful for Premier Partnerships; together we make a difference with vision, values, a can-do attitude, and unyielding faith.
In September, join us at the Reagan Outdoor Advertising! Reagan Outdoor Advertising is a proud, family-owned business that operates true to their values and integrity. They provide a powerful, unavoidable medium through which their clients build their business and their brand.
Date: Thursday, September 19, 2024 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Reagan Outdoor Advertising, 3185 41st St NW, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested
Date: Tuesday, August 13, 2024 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Premier Bank Rochester Downtown, 421 1st Ave. SW, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3xp39TJ
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3RyxhmA
AUGUST 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 23
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
Budgeting
Budgeting’s primary function is to ensure the company or organization has enough resources to meet its goal. Join the Chamber team, PossAbilities, Real Deals, and Smith Schafer to learn how to build a foundation of financial literacy and gain deeper insight on the factors that impacts an organization’s finances. SPEAKERS • Kurt Lentz, Smith Schafer: Budgeting best practices • Sue Mackert, PossAbilities: How to budget effectively as a non-profit • Ashley Moberg, Real Deals: Small business budgeting and how to pick and choose marketing dollars Date: Wednesday, August 7, 2024 Time: 9:00am-10:00am Location: Heartland Gun Club & Range, 5105 Commercial Dr SW, Rochester Admission: Free for members, $10 for general admission, registration required Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4b9WXOe
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, August 16 and Friday, September 20, 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
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT | MN
GOLD
CAFFEINE SPONSOR
24 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2024
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
Kickoff the Weekend With Us Join us for lunch and connect with fellow Chamber members
Event Sponsors
PRESENTING
LUNCH
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, 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
DRINK
HOST
AUGUST 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 25
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
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. 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. Awards will be presented to 1st, 2nd, 3rd as well as the Best Dressed Team and Best Cheer Team.
MATCH GAMES
ROCHESTER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Airplane Toss
Boat Float
Dates: Tuesday, August 6, 2024 Time: 8:00am-1:30pm Location: Essex Park, 5455 W River Rd NW, Rochester Admission: $400 per team (6-8 players), registration required Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3V2sqMK
LRS OF MINNESOTA Bucketball
KREOFSKY BUILDING SUPPLIES Building Block Speed Challenge
Event Sponsors
Cornhole
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Football Toss
Group Draw
BREAK SPONSOR
Hula Hoop Pass
Sand Volleyball
MATCH SPONSOR
LRS of Minnesota Rochester International Airport
Soccer Maze
MUSIC SPONSOR
FOOD TRUCK
Tug of War
26 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2024
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
Federal Legislation Update Upcoming Eggs & Issues: From D.C. to Rochester, Congressman Finstad and the US Chamber
From D.C. to Rochester, Congressman Finstad and the US Chamber
EGGS & ISSUES
Eggs and Issues is a long-standing series presented by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce that provides opportunities for member businesses to learn about and discuss the issues that impact their businesses and the community. The Chamber is excited to welcome Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) along with John Kirchner, Vice President, Midwest Region of the U.S. Chamber for the August edition of Eggs & Issues. Join us on Wednesday, August 28th, from 10:00am to 11:30am as Congressman Finstad shares insight into his work at the Capitol and the U.S. Chamber provides updates on relevant legislation to the business community. AGENDA: • 9:30am: Registration • 10:00am: Welcome and Introduction • 10:05 am: Issues Impacting Southern Minnesota with Congressman Brad Finstad, MN-01 • 10:35am: Federal Legislative Review and Preview with John Kirchner, Vice President, Midewest Region, U.S. Chamber of Commerce • 11:05am: Q&A *Agenda subject to change Date: Wednesday, August 28, 2024 Time: 10:00am - 11:30am Location: Empire Event Center 1517 16th St SW, Rochester Admission: $25 for members, $45 for general admission, registration required by Friday, August 23 Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4bCiH4K
Event Sponsors
PRESENTING SPONSORS
SESSION SPONSORS
AUGUST 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 27
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
Get Ready for a Kickin’ Good Time Brush off your gym shoes for the 3 rd Annual Chamber Kickball Tournament
Event Sponsors
PRESENTING SPONSOR
DUGOUT SPONSORS
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. Date: Tuesday, September 10, 2024 Time: 10:00am - 5:00pm Location: McQuillan Fields, 1655 Marion Rd. SE, Rochester Admission: SOLD OUT! Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4aRaQQR
BASE SPONSORS
MUSIC SPONSOR
FOOD TRUCK
RUN SPONSOR
Smart-HR
28 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2024
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
Shape Your Future at the RYT Summit
Welcome to the RYT Summit, where professionals can connect, learn, and develop. This premier professional development conference offers a dynamic blend of a workshop, leadership panel, and keynote speaker curated to empower you with actionable insights and strategies for leadership and professional growth.
WHO IS THIS EVENT FOR? • Professionals at any stage in their career • Those who are seeking to enhance their skills and gain valuable insights • Anyone looking to expand their network and connect with other area professionals Date: Monday, September 16, 2024 Time: 1:00pm-4:00pm with an optional After Summit Social at the end of the event Location: Woodlake Meeting Center, 210 Woodlake Dr., Rochester Admission: $50 for members, $60 for general admission, $40 for RYT Network members, registration required by Friday, August 30 Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3NNa7XK
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: THE FUNDAMENTALS OF MEANINGFUL LEADERSHIP Paul Long, Speaker, Author, Podcaster and Master of Shenanigans Paul spent over a decade successfully leading teams and being responsible for $30M in annual
revenue. Paul’s practical, yet rich FUNdamentals provide tactical solutions for growth and how to differentiate yourself as a leader. Paul has shared his inspiring message with PayPal, Sysco, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and more. WORKSHOP: ELEVATE YOUR SKILLS Dive into an engaging and informative workshop with your topic of choice. Our workshops are led by industry experts offering insight, advice, and training to impact your skills, both in business and in life. Topic options include: • Leadership Styles and What That Means for You • How to Prevent Burnout in the Workplace 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. Panelists include: • Dr. Jeffery Boyd, President, Rochester Community and Technical College • Zoey Jantsan, Realtor, Edina Realty and Chair of the Women's Roundtable • And more to be announced soon online! Agenda is subject to change.
Event Sponsors
GOLD SPONSOR
SILVER SPONSOR
HOST SPONSOR
TABLE SPONSOR
Kraus-Anderson | Rochester Motor Cars
AUGUST 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 29
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online