Advantage Magazine | November 2023

NOVEMBER 2023

A ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATION

New Leader & Vision For Rochester Public Utilities Tim McCollough dives into his new role and the future power supply plan

MEET THE MEMBER Guide Your Heart

WINTER BUSINESS SHOWCASE Upcoming Professional Networking Event

ECONOMIC SUMMIT Exploring the Local Economy

Showcase your business at the Mayo Civic Center on Tuesday, December 5 from 5pm-7:30pm! Professional Networking | Door Prizes | Light Appetizers | Cash Bar $5 and a Business Card for Admission

YOUR BUSINESS COULD BE INCLUDED BELOW If you are a Chamber member and you are interested in having a booth, please reach out to Ally Sheehan, asheehan@rochestermnchamber.com, to secure your spot!

GOLD SPONSOR

HOST SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

MEDIA SPONSOR

BOOTH SPONSOR

TABLE OF CONTENTS

November 2023 Advantage Magazine

What’s Inside

NEWSREEL New Roles and Celebrations

FEATURE Meet Tim McCollough, Rochester Public Utilities’ New General Manager

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

MEET THE MEMBER Guide Your Heart

NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the Chamber

CHAMBER NEWS • Events • RYT Network for Young Talent • Sponsorship Opportunities

COMMUNITY NEWS • Job Training Initiative • Top Small Business Award to Levels, LLC • Think Gives Day • New Zumbro Valley Health Center Facility

ADVERTISING INFORMATION Contact Sophia van Oss at svanoss@rochestermnchamber.com

THE HEART OF HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Environment plays a critical role in our health and wellness. This is why TSP considers every aspect of the human experience when designing hospitals, clinics, wellness centers, and senior care facilities. Our multidisciplinary team skillfully balances care and comfort with complex technology and clinical regulations in order to exceed patient, visitor, and staff expectations. To learn more, visit:

TEAMTSP COM/HEALTHCARE

NOVEMBER 2023 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 3

CHAMBER STAFF & BOARD

November 2023 Advantage Magazine

Chamber Staff

CHAMBER PRESIDENT Ryan Parsons | 507-288-1122

PUBLIC AFFAIRS & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Jonathon Krull | 507-424-5677 DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & OPERATIONS Madelyn Ryan | 507-424-5699

EVENTS & PROGRAM DIRECTOR Ally Sheehan | 507-424-5687

SENIOR DIRECTOR, MEMBERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT Kali Aldrich | 507-424-5665 WORKFORCE INITIATIVES & RYT NETWORK DIRECTOR Kaytlyn Anzivino | 507-424-5662

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

NIKKI MENSING Olmsted Medical Center

DR. JEFFREY BOYD Rochester Community and Technical College

JARETT JONES Merchants Bank

OMAR NUR Somali American Social Services Association

MARGE KELLEY Gillette Pepsi of Rochester

HEATHER DONOVAN Sterling State Bank

SYLWIA BUJAK OLIVER 125 LIVE

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

Chamber Advantage USPS 446-900 is published monthly by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce at 220 S Broadway Ste 100 | Rochester, MN 55904 | Phone: 507-288-1122 Periodical Postage paid at Rochester, Minnesota | Annual Subscription is free to Chamber members | John Eckerman, Chair of the Board | Editor: Ryan Parsons Postmaster: Send address changes to: Chamber Advantage, 220 S Broadway Ste 100, Rochester, MN 55904 or email: chamber@rochestermnchamber.com

4 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — NOVEMBER 2023

MEET TIM MCCOLLOUGH

Feature

Recently, Tim McCollough joined the Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) as the organization’s new general manager. In this issue of The Advantage, readers can learn more about McCollough and his role and vision for RPU. Chamber: Can you tell us more about yourself, your background, and the experience you bring to Rochester Public Utilities (RPU)? Tim McCollough: I have worked in the electric utility industry now for twenty years. I am a mechanical engineer by education and bring with me experience in four major areas: power generation, organized energy markets, power distribution, and implementing technology in the utility sector. About fifteen years of my industry experience involved working for two other municipalities, the City of Ames, Iowa, and the City of Fort Collins, Colorado.

Rochester Public Utilities new general manager Tim McCollough has 20 years experience in the electric utility industry.

NOVEMBER 2023 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 5

MEET TIM MCCOLLOUGH

Feature

Chamber: What excites you about leading RPU? McCollough: As a transplant into Rochester, it has been very exciting to join the community and share with people that I meet that I work for Rochester Public Utilities. I have heard many stories from members of the community sharing their appreciation and respect for RPU. To join a team and an organization that has a strong reputation is an honor for me professionally and one of the primary reasons for my interest in moving to Rochester. I am a strong believer in the public power model of serving the community directly and having local control of decisions. As Rochester Public Utilities, we keep the focus on our primary mission to provide reliable

This multifaceted approach to power supply ensures reliability, affordable rates, and environmental responsibility in serving our valued customers and the growing business community within our region.

and responsible utility services with affordable rates without having a profit motive or external shareholders to answer to. I also love a challenge. There have been other times of significant change in the utility industry over the past

century. Currently, we are on the cusp of new investments in three major areas of our core business. Our power supply plan beyond 2030, our planned investments in the regional transmission infrastructure and implementing advanced metering infrastructure for our electric and water utilities. Chamber: Can you describe RPU’s current power supply plan and the energy mix that provides electricity to Rochester?

to meet the growing energy demands of Rochester. To understand our power

sourced from MISO directly from or indirectly through our contract with the Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (SMMPA). In short, our own generation doesn’t directly serve our own load. Electrical energy travels seamlessly from many generation facilities to end-users through a vast transmission and distribution network, following the laws of physics and system conditions at any given moment. The MISO energy mix that supplies our load fluctuates daily and hourly. As of a typical autumn

supply strategy, one must first recognize that we participate in a regional energy market. Each kilowatt-hour of energy generated by our resources is dispatched to serve the collective load in the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) market, a vast regional energy market spanning 14 states. In return, each kilowatt- hour of electricity consumed within our RPU service area is

McCollough: At RPU, our pledge is to deliver a reliable power supply

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MEET TIM MCCOLLOUGH

Feature

day, the composition stands at approximately 40% natural gas, 38% coal, 10% nuclear, 8% wind, and the remaining 4% derives from solar and other diverse sources. One core obligation we have is to bring to the MISO market sufficient generation capacity to serve to the energy demands of our load within our service area during each season of the year, while adhering to the reserve margin criteria set by MISO to account for regional grid contingencies. Our most recent peak demand of 295 megawatts (MW), experienced in August of this year, serves as a new all- time peak demand reference point. To meet this demand and the associated reserve margin, we presently acquire 216 MW of capacity from SMMPA through a long-term power supply agreement and call upon a diverse portfolio of locally controlled resources to bridge the gap between our requirements and that contracted capacity. This local generation includes two combustion turbines, seven reciprocating engines at two different sites, the hydroelectric

dam on the Zumbro River at Mazeppa, and a recently

community. Our forward-looking strategy, set in motion back in 2018, commits us to achieve 100% renewable energy, on a net basis, once the SMMPA contract concludes in 2030.

commissioned solar array located near West Rochester. Notably, the Silver Lake Plant, formerly a coal- fired facility and a cornerstone of our generation portfolio, has transitioned its operation. Two of its units now utilize natural gas to produce steam, which is provided to the Mayo Clinic under a long- term contract. reliability, affordable rates, and environmental responsibility in serving our valued customers and the growing business community within our region. Chamber: RPU is currently working toward their 2030 resources plan. Can you provide an overview of what this plan entails and how it will impact the community? This multifaceted approach to power supply ensures McCollough: As of March 31, 2030, RPU’s longstanding power supply agreement with SMMPA will come to an end. Rather than renewing this contract, RPU has chosen a path that offers us greater flexibility in securing power supply to meet the needs of our

Our forward-looking strategy, set in motion back in 2018, commits us to achieve 100% renewable energy, on a net basis...in 2030.

In preparation for the post-2030 era, RPU has actively engaged in discussions with our engineering consultants at 1898 & Co., the RPU Board, and our community to fine- tune our vision. This endeavor has involved the exploration of several scenarios, but there are common threads running through the most probable ones. These include integrating new wind energy and solar energy to meet our renewable energy commitments and adding demand response assets into our portfolio to manage

the anticipated growing load demands in our community.

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NOVEMBER 2023 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 7

MEET TIM MCCOLLOUGH

Feature

Real Time Fuel Mix

This represents a snapshot in time and is not intended to represent a typical generation mix over a longer period of time.

The most substantial variable in this equation is how to replace the 216 MW of firm capacity currently supplied by SMMPA. In exploring all commercially viable forms of electric generating firm capacity our resource plan was recently updated to focus on a combination of technologies including combustion turbines, reciprocating engines, and battery storage. While our plan remains adaptable, it seems likely that thermal generation will continue to play a role in our energy mix to meet our capacity obligations and ensure a reliable power supply for our community. From our vantage point, reliability for our customers is an unwavering priority.

We've pledged to achieve 100% renewable energy, and we're determined to fulfill that promise reliably and with sustainable and affordable rates. This energy transition comes with the associated costs, and this is where community input has been instrumental. A 2019 survey of our residential customers revealed that 67% of respondents were willing to pay up to an additional $5 per month on their bill for renewable energy. We are vigilant about cost considerations in our resource planning and day-to- day operations, and these survey results have provided valuable insights into the bounds of what our future resource plan may cost. This insight guides our

decision-making as we strive to deliver reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective energy solutions for our community. Chamber: As we move toward the 2030 goal, are there challenges or opportunities the business community should anticipate? McCollough: As we strive to achieve 100% renewable energy on a net basis, it's important to acknowledge that this transition may have an impact on our customers’ monthly bills. We are dedicated to closely monitoring the competitiveness of our rates relative to other utilities in the region. Our commitment is to remain competitive and align our rates within the boundaries

8 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — NOVEMBER 2023

MEET TIM MCCOLLOUGH

Feature

established by the results of the 2019 survey. In addition to the Resource Plan, we are actively exploring opportunities to enhance our energy efficiency offerings and support our customers in their adoption of electric vehicles. This year, we introduced time- of-use rates, a step aimed at assisting customers who wish to save money and optimize their electricity usage. Furthermore, we will soon be implementing Automated Metering Infrastructure (AMI) which holds the potential to empower both RPU and our customers to harness data for optimizing energy efficiency and ensuring reliability.

Chamber: What is the outlook going forward for RPU? What are you looking forward to in the role RPU will continue to play in Rochester? McCollough: I am happy to report that the outlook for Rochester Public Utilities is “Stable.” And I mean that in the literal sense. Recently Fitch reaffirmed our AA bond rating with a “Stable” outlook based on several factors including our organizational structure with local control combined with our rigorous financial planning that includes all our major future investments assumed in our power supply plan and the anticipated regional transmission investments.

I look forward to RPU maintaining its current well-respected position in and commitment to the community. Inside RPU, we recognize that our customers and the community depend on us to be a stable utility that consistently delivers power and water without disrupting their lives and do so in a responsible manner. We remain firmly committed to earning that reputation every year, over and over again, by focusing on the

core mission of our business: to enrich people’s lives, help businesses

prosper and promote the community’s welfare.

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GUIDE YOUR HEART

Meet the Member

Meet the Member: Guide Your Heart Each month, we learn from a Chamber member about their offerings, history, a unique fact, and their business outlook

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GUIDE YOUR HEART

Meet the Member

As a local non-profit, Guide Your Heart supports relationship wellness to strengthen the most valuable relationship in the home - the couple. We spoke with the Executive Director & Founder, Kristine Stensland, to learn more. Q: Tell us about Guide Your Heart. What does your company offer to the Rochester region? A: Guide Your Heart is a 501(c)(3) non-profit with the mission of helping couple relationships start and stay strong. If you look at our logo, you’ll notice it looks like a wheel. The logo was designed to show relationships as a continuum and each color represents a segment of that continuum. The continuum is made up of Youth Relationship Education, Premarital Preparation, Support for the Start of a Committed Couple Relationship, Enrichment of Relationships, Restoration of Relationships in Crisis, Divorce Recovery, and Step or Blended Family Education and Support. Guide Your Heart’s work in our region is to foster partnerships, centralize resources, and mobilize support for strengthening couple relationships along that continuum. Q: How did it start for Guide Your Heart? A : I think the word evolve rather than start best describes Guide Your Heart. Officially, the IRS approved Guide Your Heart as a non-profit in January 2021. The path to Guide Your Heart began in 2004 when I went through a divorce and made it my personal mission to work to help others avoid that painful experience. Since getting remarried, my husband and I have volunteered to lead divorce recovery groups, started blended family groups, and became Prepare Enrich facilitators to provide premarital coaching. Founding Guide Your Heart formalized our commitment to be a community catalyst to elevate the conversation about strengthening the “leadership team of the family” (the couple) and encourage stronger community involvement and connection to support that team. Q: Guide Your Heart has been a member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce for a year. What do you find valuable in your membership to the organization? A: Networking and learning. I am energized and inspired when I meet other members of the Chamber and learn about the impactful work they are doing. Our community benefits when we dream big together about how we can collectively improve the lives of community members.

Guide Your Heart’s work in our region is to foster partnerships, centralize resources, and mobilize support for strengthening couple relationships along that continuum.

Q: What is a unique fact people should know about Guide Your Heart? A: I’m not sure it’s unique, but it is part of our story. In 2007, I had an informational interview with the Executive Director of Child Care Resource & Referral (now Families First of MN), Pat Gannon. During that conversation with Pat, I told him I was changing careers from healthcare administration to non-profit administration because “someday I’m going to found a non-profit with a mission of strengthening couple relationships.” Fourteen years later, Guide Your Heart became official. Pat, who is now retired, was one of the first people I notified when we received approval from the IRS to be a 501(c)(3) organization. The path was longer than anticipated, but the passion never waned. Q: What is the outlook for your business and industry? A: The need for relationship education is high, but the demand is low. And relationships start and sadly end, probably every day. As donations are secured to invest in the mission of helping couple relationships start and stay strong, there is no shortage of work to be done.

To learn more about Guide Your Heart, visit www.guideyourheart.org

NOVEMBER 2023 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 11

UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

HOSTED BY

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. This month, join us and Southeast Service Cooperative at the Woodlake Meeting Center! The Southeast Service Cooperative (SSC, ISD #921) is a public, non-profit agency. They served over 100 public and private school districts, cities and counties, and other organizations in the 11-county southeast region of Minnesota. They provide education programming which include professional development, a multi-partner mobile science lab, student enrichment programming, and the Southeast/Metro Regional Center of Excellence with the MN Department of Education. Date: Friday, November 3, 2023 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Southeast Service Cooperative - Woodlake Meeting Center, 210 Woodlake Dr SE, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested Register here: https://bit.ly/45UFDdu

Join us for Business after Hours (BAH), a monthly networking function which brings professionals together to network and build valuable business relationships. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while connecting with a variety of businesses and organizations operating in the greater Rochester area. This event is a great opportunity to increase your organization’s visibility and generate productive business leads. Come and connect, expand your network, and build community at Merchants Bank! At Merchants Bank, their goal is to provide exceptional experiences in every interaction they have with you, including the teams and processes that support your local branch and bankers. When you bank with them, you'll have access to all of the traditional banking services you'd expect from a local bank as well as more specialized areas such as Trust and estate services, Investment services and correspondent mortgage lending. Date: Thursday, November 16, 2023 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Merchants Bank, 3586 55th St NW, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested Register here: https://bit.ly/3PJfKYg

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UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

2023 STEAM Summit Encourage students to pursue science, technology, engineering, art and math careers

Event Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR

HOST SPONSOR

The STEAM Summit encourages more than 3,000 middle and high school students to pursue science, technology, engineering, art, and math careers by connecting them to business and higher educational institutions that offer STEAM courses in a highly interactive, hands-on format. The future success of the Southeast Minnesota economy depends on a well-prepared pipeline of students with the education and skills needed to keep the region’s business and industry competitive. This summit brings together over 70+ business, higher education, local government, and our community to motivate and prepare students for an increasingly competitive global marketplace. Date: Tuesday, November 14, 2023 Time: 7:00am - 3:00pm Location: RCTC Regional Sports Center 851 30th Ave SE, Rochester Admission: Exhibitor registration is free thanks to the generosity of sponsors, registration required Learn more here: https://bit.ly/456MW1F

SILVER SPONSORS

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UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

Business Networking Event Over 50 members will showcase their business, services, and connect with professionals

Join the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce for the second annual Winter Business Showcase! Held at the Mayo Civic Center exhibit hall on December 5th, 2023 from 5pm - 7:30pm. Over 50 Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Business Members will showcase their business, services and connect with professionals throughout the Rochester region. Come enjoy great food, a cash bar, interactive exhibits, all attendees have the opportunity to enter into door prizes and network with local Rochester businesses! This expo is open to the public - $5 cash admission and a business card at the door. Date: Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Time: 5:00pm-7:30pm Location: Mayo Civic Center - Exhibit Hall 30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester Admission: $5 admission for public Register here: https://bit.ly/3RseD0r

BOOTHS AVAILABLE FOR WINTER BUSINESS SHOWCASE Become a booth sponsor to get space, company name recognition in the promotion of the event (like here in the Advantage), hyperlink name to your company webpage on the Chamber event page, admission for four people to the event and opportunity to provide a door prize — all for $350. To secure your booth, email Ally Sheehan at asheehan@rochestermnchamber.com.

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UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

Event Sponsors

HOST SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

MEDIA SPONSOR

BOOTH SPONSORS

Additional exhibitors to be announced!

NOVEMBER 2023 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 15

UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

Grow Your Organization 2.2x Faster with

WOMEN’S ROUNDTABLE

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. Date: Friday, November 10, 2023 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Conference Room, 220 S Broadway, Suite 100 , Rochester Admission: Free, registration required Featured Speaker : Jessica Curry, Owner/Interior Designer of Interiors by J. Curry Register here: https://bit.ly/3MdUhEN

Vistage has been empowering small- and mid- sized organizations worldwide for over 65 years. Through Vistage groups, peer-to-peer support has consistently inspired authentic leadership, built business resilience, and strengthened organizational cultures.

For-Profit and Non-Profit Organizations

Gather with like-minded, non-competing business leaders in your community once a month who understand the nuances of your community and bring the collective wisdom of over 65 years of global expertise to the table.

Event Sponsors

• Succession planning • Executive coaching • Speaker’s bureau

• Peer advisory • Problem-solving • Exclusive events

Vistage groups are forming now! Join one today or connect with Tom to learn more. Tom Ferraro, MAOL Vistage Chair Thomas.Ferraro@VistageChair.com 507.269.6244

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UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

HOSTED BY

Date: Friday, December 1, 2023 Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Haley Comfort Systems, 3708 N Broadway Ave, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested Register here: https://bit.ly/45EpY0F

Date: Thursday, December 7, 2023 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Knight's Menswear,

1340 Salem Rd SW Ste #101, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested Register here: https://bit.ly/46FQKaA

NOVEMBER 2023 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 17

UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

Exploring the Local Economy Including panels, business outlook survey results, and a featured keynote

The Economic Summit provides 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. Join us for this premier event on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 to learn from industry leaders and our keynote speaker. AGENDA • Small Business and Entrepreneur Panel Discussion • Industry Panel Discussion • Business Outlook Survey Results Presentation • Featured Keynote: Todd Buchholz

Panelists to be announced!

Date: Tuesday, January 23, 2024 Time: 7:30am-11:00am Location: Mayo Civic Center - Ballrooms 2 & 3 30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester Admission: $50 for members, $60 for general admission, registration required Register here: https://bit.ly/3M6oANr Interested in being an event sponsor? Email Ally Sheehan at asheehan@rochestermnchamber.com for more information

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UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

PRESENTING SPONSOR Event Sponsors

GOLD SPONSOR

KEYNOTE SPEAKER Todd Buchholz , Economist / Author / Keynote Speaker Renowned economist, White House advisor, and best- selling author Todd Buchholz connects the dots between Wall Street, Main Street, and financial capitals throughout the world. An internationally known consultant on global markets and winner of Harvard’s annual teaching prize, Buchholz advises the world’s leading companies and "lights up economics with a wickedly sparkling wit." Buchholz has authored numerous critically acclaimed and best-selling books on the economy and leadership, many of which he has developed into successful lectures and speaking events. His books have been translated into a dozen languages and are used in universities worldwide, including at NYU, Duke, and Princeton. Author Buchholz is praised for his examination of economics, business and entrepreneurship in the context of global society. Buchholz has also published the best-selling New Ideas from Dead Economists, New Ideas from Dead CEOs, From Here to Economy, and Lasting Lessons from the Corner Office, which garnered high praise from The New York Times and Financial Times. Named by Publishers Weekly as a “top ten” book for 2011, his book Rush: Why You Need and Love the Rat Race has been praised by the Financial Times, Toronto Globe & Mail, Los Angeles Times and the BBC, among many others. Buchholz has penned articles for the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Forbes, and Reader’s Digest.

PRODUCTION SPONSOR

BRONZE SPONSOR Minnesota Energy Resources Peoples Energy Cooperative

TABLE SPONSORS

NOVEMBER 2023 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 19

UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

Celebrate the Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

PRESENTING SPONSOR Event Sponsors

Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. - We Have a Dream Celebration is an annual community event held on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day to commemorate the life and work of Dr. King. With hundreds in attendance, this event is an excellent opportunity to promote a welcoming and inclusive community.

Agenda to be announced!

CELEBRATION SPONSOR

Date: Monday, January 15, 2024 Time: 8:30am-10:30am

Location: Mayo Civic Center, 30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester Admission: Free, open to the public Register here: https://bit.ly/46J5qFI

Event Partner

MEDIA SPONSOR

COMMUNITY SPONSOR

Bolton & Menk, Inc. | Charter Communications Family Service Rochester | ISG | Rochester Art Center

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UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

Celebrate with the Chamber Step into enchanted forest for dueling pianos at the 2024 Annual Celebration

PRESENTING SPONSOR Event Sponsors

GOLD SPONSOR

You are cordially invited to join the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, February 29, 2024 for our Annual Celebration! This gala will celebrate the success and growth of the business community in the Rochester region. Join us for an evening of celebration, networking and entertainment! Our members are the reason we exist! Thank you for joining us at this annual event to celebrate and prepare for the future of our region - together.

SILVER SPONSOR

PRODUCTION SPONSOR

AGENDA •5:30pm-6:00pm: Networking and Introduction •6:15pm: Program, Dinner and Entertainment (Dueling Pianos by Fun Pianos!) •8:00pm: Networking

BRONZE SPONSOR

ISG | Minnesota Energy Resources Stinson Services Inc | West Bank

TABLE SPONSOR

125 LIVE | Altra Federal Credit Union | Associated Bank Benike Construction | Bolton & Menk, Inc. CRW architecture + design group | DBS Group

Date: Thursday, February 29, 2024 Time: 5:30pm-8:45pm

Location: Mayo Civic Center, 30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester Admission: $80 for members, $100 for general admission, registration required Register here: https://bit.ly/45IhhTh

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UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber News

Calendar of Events View and register all Chamber events at www.rochestermnchamber.com/events

5 Winter Business Showcase Date: Tuesday, December 5 Time: 5:00pm-7:30pm Location: Mayo Civic Center - Exhibit Hall $5 admission, open to the public 7 Business After Hours - Knight's Menswear Date: Thursday, December 7 Time : 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Knight's Menswear FREE - Registration requested 12 Hospitality 1st Date: Tuesday, December 12 Time: 4:30pm-6:00pm Location: EVEN Kitchen and Bar, EVEN Hotels & Staybridge Suites FREE - Registration required 15 Women’s Roundtable Date: Friday, December 15 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce FREE - Registration requested JANUARY 5 AM Espresso - Reagan Outdoor Advertising Date: Friday, January 5 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Reagan Outdoor Advertising FREE - Registration requested 15 We Have a Dream Celebration Date: Monday, January 15 Time: 8:30am-10:30am Location: Mayo Civic Center

19 Women’s Roundtable Date: Friday, January 19 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce FREE - Registration requested 23 Economic Summit Date: Tuesday, January 23 Time: 7:30am-11:00am Location: Mayo Civic Center Registration required FEBRUARY 15 Business After Hours - Empire Event Center & KNXR - MN 97.5 Date: Thursday, February 15 Time : 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Empire Event Center FREE - Registration requested 16 Women’s Roundtable Date: Friday, February 16 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce FREE - Registration requested 29 Annual Celebration Date: Thursday, February 29 Time: 5:30pm-8:45pm Location: Mayo Civic Center Registration required MARCH 1 AM Espresso - Roca Climbing & Fitness Date: Friday, March 8 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Roca Climbing & Fitness FREE - Registration requested

NOVEMBER 3 AM Espresso - Southeast Service Cooperative Date: Friday, November 3 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Southeast Service Cooperative FREE - Registration requested 10 Women’s Roundtable Date: Friday, November 10 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce FREE - Registration requested 14 STEAM Summit Date: Tuesday, November 14 Time : 7:00am-3:00pm Location: RCTC Regional Sports Center FREE to exhibit - Registration required 16 Business After Hours - Merchants Bank Date: Thursday, November 16 Time : 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Merchants Bank FREE - Registration requested 16 WE Forum Date: Thursday, November 16 Time: 11:30am-1:00pm Location: Saint Mary's University - Rochester Campus FREE - Registration required DECEMBER 1 AM Espresso - Haley Comfort Systems Date: Friday, December 1 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Haley Comfort Systems FREE - Registration requested

22 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — NOVEMBER 2023

Chamber News

Rochester Area Young Talent Networking Events Join the RYT Network today to create professional connections

In October, RYT Network members enjoyed a Bowling Social Night and Industry Tour: Recreation & Fitness.

RYT Network membership includes access to events like these: • Bowling Social Night: Strike or spare we don’t care as long as you are there for a fun evening of socializing and creating connections with young professionals in the Rochester community. • Industry Tour: Get a better understanding of the variety of businesses that make our community thrive by exploring the area with us. • Professional Development Workshop: Our interactive workshops are designed to provide strategies and tools to help achieve personal and professional goals. • Speed Networking: Expand your circle with a fun fast- paced way! Speed Networking is a great way to meet and connect with young professionals in the community. • CEO Connections: Looking to learn from a leader? CEO Connections is a series where community executives and leaders share their personal and professional insights regarding their own paths to success!

The RYT Network (Rochester Area Young Talent Network) officially launched in September! This program will provide opportunity for young talent of the region to create connections, develop professionally and personally, and build relationships with industry, community, and the talent of tomorrow. By joining the RYT Network, you have access to: • Networking Events • Community & Industry Engagement • Professional & Career Development Sessions • Annual Signature Events If you have questions or would like to learn more, please visit www.rochestermnchamber.com/ryt or contact Kaytlyn Anzivino at kaytlyna@rochestermnchamber.com. RYT Network members will have access to monthly events. RYT Network members will receive more details about the event and registration information through email newsletters.

Program Gold Sponsors

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT | MN

NOVEMBER 2023 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 23

Chamber News

Chamber Resource Campaign Closing The CRC, featuring new events like RYT Network Summit and Day at the Capitol, is set to close on Thursday, November 30th

HIGHLIGHTED SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: • Day at the Capitol: Gold Sponsor - $1,250 • RYT Network Summit: Silver Sponsor - $750 • Economic Summit: Table Sponsor - $450 • Annual Golf Outing: Title Sponsor - $6,500 • Lemonade Day: Lemon Twist - $500 • Annual Celebration: Reception Sponsor - $3,000 • Women's Roundtable: Series Sponsor - $1,500 • RYT Network: Gold Sponsor - $2,000 To learn more about the events and the benefits associated with each sponsorship level, click the link below to view the CRC Guide.

The Chamber Resource Campaign (CRC) guide will provide you with an efficient platform to plan your engagement in Rochester Chamber events, programs, and more throughout 2024. This CRC Guide is a showcase of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce events and programs, providing you with valuable details such as event descriptions, available sponsorship levels, and benefits associated with each opportunity. At this time the right of first refusal has ended and now enrollment has opened. DATES OF CRC • Right of First Refusal Period: Tuesday, August 1 – Thursday, August 31 Complete • Open Enrollment: Friday, September 1 – Open Enrollment is for current sponsors wanting to add additional engagement opportunities and new sponsors looking to become involved in engagement opportunities. • Close of Chamber Resource Campaign: Thursday, November 30

If you would like to set up a phone call, in-person meeting, or Zoom call with Ally Sheehan to learn more about events and programs, please contact her at asheehan@ rochestermnchamber.com or 507-424-5687. You can also schedule a meeting with her on her Calendly at: https://calendly.com/ asheehan-racc/chamber- meeting

View the 2024 CRC Guide at: https://bit.ly/44GXqEj

Why Sponsor?

INCREASE BRAND AWARENESS By sponsoring, businesses can increase their visibility and promote their brand to a wider audience. Your company’s brand name and sponsorship recognition is included collateral.

ACCESS TO BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS Chamber events provide a unique atmosphere for renewing and strengthening relationships with new and existing clients and customers.

INCREASE YOUR ROI Being a supporter of Chamber events elevates your business or organization in the community. Chamber members appreciate doing business with other Chamber members and supporters.

24 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — NOVEMBER 2023

Community News

Job Training Initiative Launched for High-Demand Jobs Drive for 5 Workforce Initiative was announced for technology, the trades, caring professions, manufacturing, and education occupations

In October, Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) launched the Drive for 5 Workforce Initiative, a major new effort to prepare more Minnesotans for high-demand jobs in five occupational categories: technology, the trades, caring professions, manufacturing, and education. "Whether it's teaching our students or innovating in technology, Minnesota has hundreds of employers looking to fill good-paying jobs, and we're working to ensure Minnesotans have access to the training they need to fill them," said Governor Walz. " The five occupational groupings offer high-demand jobs, are projected to be high-growth in the years ahead, and provide family-sustaining wages for workers – making them important sectors for both Minnesota's economy and Minnesotans looking to join the labor force. Through Drive for 5, DEED will partner with workforce development institutions around Minnesota, which will implement or expand job training programs for specific occupational paths. The training programs will be designed to help Minnesotans prepare for and find jobs on an in-demand career path – providing job-ready skills for Minnesota workers and growing Minnesota's workforce for employers looking to hire. "Drive for 5 is one of the ways DEED is delivering for Minnesota workers and employers," said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. "This is a strategic approach to two of Minnesota's most challenging problems: employment disparities faced by some of our fellow Minnesotans and a labor force shortage that creates many difficulties for employers looking to hire. We're excited to engage sector partnerships to work together in overcoming these challenges." Sector partnerships that receive Drive for 5 funding through DEED will provide training that leads to high-quality job placements in these occupations, breaking down barriers to good employment for Minnesotans who have long faced higher unemployment, lower wages, and more tenuous connections to work. Localized sector partnerships are

essential to ensure education and training programs are reflective of employers' needs in their local labor markets, facilitating faster job placement for program participants and helping to create a steady talent pipeline for in-demand positions in communities across the state. Minnesota's economy added about 50,000 jobs over the past year, and nearly 200,000 jobs remain open in Minnesota as employers try to find enough workers to fill these vacancies. Job demand over the past two years was at or near record highs in every region of the state and in most industries, with many openings providing opportunities for career growth and family-sustaining wages. View details about job vacancies and projected demand, as well as median wages and educational requirements for positions in the Drive for 5 occupational groups in the article Minnesota’s Drive For 5 Initiative from DEED’s Labor Market Information Office and Governor’s Workforce Development Board. Interested applicants are urged to submit their proposal by December 11, 2023. More information can be found here: https://mn.gov/deed/about/contracts/open-rfp.jsp

NOVEMBER 2023 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 25

Community News

America's Top Small Business Award Goes to Levels LLC The U.S. Chamber of Commerce recognized 70 small businesses including local Rochester apparel company

Daniel Johnson Jr, Owner of Levels, LLC celebrated at the United States Chamber of Commerce in Washington, DC for being a 2023 America’s Top Small Business honoree. They were one of 70 small businesses across the country to receive this prestigious recognition out of a record breaking pool of 15,000+ eligible businesses and ranked 1 out of 10 for the Midwest region! The U.S. Chamber of Commerce selected America’s top 70 small businesses from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Businesses were evaluated on their business growth, ability to overcome challenges, innovative strategies for success, and community engagement. In addition to his national recognition, Daniel was invited to the Ready. Set. Scale. summit in Washington, DC where he gained exclusive access to executives from Google, Walmart, and Meta. During the summit, these industry leaders shared valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies that are enabling and influencing small businesses. Levels, originally founded in 2015, and transformed in 2020 has quickly become a leading destination for fashion-forward individuals seeking high-end clothing items. They are currently located at Apache Mall, Mall of America, and have an online presence shipping worldwide. "At Levels, we are passionate about bringing our customers the finest luxury designer streetwear that allows them to express their personality through fashion. With a strong focus on integrity and quality of fabrics, we strive to deliver an unparalleled style and comfort," said Owner, Daniel Johnson Jr.

Daniel Johnson, Owner of Levels, with Matt Madrigal, Vice President of Merchant Shopping at Google, at the Ready. Set. Scale summit.

26 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — NOVEMBER 2023

Community News

Over 240 Think Bank Employees Volunteer for 17 Local Nonprofits

Think Bank held their annual community-service event called “Think Gives Day" on Monday, October 9th.

More than 240 Think Bank employees volunteered for 17 nonprofit organizations in the Rochester area on Monday, October 9th for the company’s annual community-service event called “Think Gives Day.” All Think locations and its phone center were closed on Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples’ Day to give every team member the opportunity to participate. “Think Gives Day is always one of the best days of the year for us and this year was no exception,” said Alaine Westra, Think’s Vice President of Community Impact. “We love coming together as an organization to make our communities better places to live, work and play. This year, we provided well over 1,000 community-service hours. We had a blast making a difference – we painted, cleaned, raked, packed and built, all while enjoying camaraderie with our colleagues!” The organizations that Think volunteers served this year included: • Ability Building Community • Bear Creek Services • Boys & Girls Club of Rochester • Channel One Regional Food Bank • Chesterwoods Park • Damascus Way • Doc’s Recovery House

• EA Therapeutic Health • Family Service Rochester • Gamehaven (Boy Scouts) • Ironwood Springs Ranch • Oxbow Zoo & Park • Quarry Hill Nature Center • Ronald McDonald House

• Salvation Army • Seasons Hospice • Two Rivers Habitat for Humanity

The day started and ended with guest speakers from nonprofit organizations Habitat for Humanity, The Open Door Pantry (Eagan) and Boys & Girls Club of Rochester. The speakers shared information with Think employees about how their organizations help those in need and how volunteers’ contributions have a positive impact. Said Westra: “We were inspired and invigorated by another wonderful Think Gives Day and look forward to next year!”

NOVEMBER 2023 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 27

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