A ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATION
AUGUST 2025
TABLE OF CONTENTS
August 2025 Advantage Magazine
What’s Inside
4
33
COMMUNITY NEWS • Merchants Bank Celebrates 150th Anniversary • One Million Dollars for Affordable Housing & Community Impact • Mayo Clinic Ranked No. 1 in 4 Specialties Nationwide
FEATURE Lemonade Day 2025: Stirring Up Success
16 10 18
FEATURE 2025 Legislative Review
NON-PROFIT SPOTLIGHT Family Service Rochester, Inc.
38 36 39
NEWSREEL New Roles and Celebrations
MEET THE MEMBER Lake City Floral
RIBBON CUTTINGS Grand Openings, Anniversaries, New Members, and Other Celebrations
20
CHAMBER NEWS • Upcoming Events • Leadership Greater Rochester Class of 2026 Announced • Sponsorship Opportunities for 2026 • RYT Network: Empowering Young Talent
NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the Chamber
1854
The first settlers, George Head and his family, arrived in the area and settled in what is now part of Rochester’s central business district. Rochester becomes incorporated as a city. Physician, William Worral Mayo, arrived in Rochester. Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce established. Merchants Bank, NA founded in Winona, MN. The first Mayo Clinic building opened. Rochester Community College founded with support from Mayo Clinic. IBM expanded operations into Rochester. Merchants Bank, NA joined the Rochester community through the acquisition of three locations. Merchants Bank, NA celebrates their 150th Anniversary.
More than
1858 1863 1866 1875 1914 1915
150 years of Rochester
1956 1999
In honor of Merchants Bank’s 150th Anniversary.
2025
www.merchantsbank.com
Member FDIC
2 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2025
CHAMBER STAFF & BOARD
August 2025 Advantage Magazine
Chamber Staff
CHAMBER PRESIDENT Ryan Parsons | 507-288-1122
EVENTS & PROGRAMS DIRECTOR Shannon Gowen | 507-424-5687
MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR Tim Shea | 507-424-5663
MEMBER ENGAGEMENT DIRECTOR Emma Esteb | 507-424-5665
WORKFORCE INITIATIVES & RYT NETWORK DIRECTOR Claire Henneman | 507-424-5662 SENIOR DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Jonathon Krull | 507-424-5677
MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Brady Strickland | 507-424-5678 SENIOR DIRECTOR, COMMUNICATIONS & DESIGN Sophia van Oss | 507-424-5661
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & OPERATIONS Michaela Freyler | 507-424-5699
Chamber Board Officers
CHAIR OF THE BOARD Steve Dunn | Taco JED
AT LARGE Scott Eggert | Broadway Plaza
TREASURER Jessica Eidem | IBM Corporation
VICE CHAIR Gwen Stevens | People's Energy Cooperative
SECRETARY Jarett Jones | Merchants Bank
Chamber Board Members
SANTHI ARUNACHALAM Xylo Technologies Inc.
DOUG HOLTAN Mayo Clinic
JENNA OBERNOLTE Short Elliott Hendrickson
CHAD BEHNKEN CORE Real Estate Group
BEN KING Dunlap & Seeger
SYLWIA BUJAK OLIVER 125 LIVE
DR. JEFFREY BOYD Rochester Community and Technical College
CHAD LAUNDERVILLE Hy-Vee
KRISTY SUTTON Olmsted Medical Center
TOM LEIMER Knutson Construction
KELSEY VASZILY Kraus-Anderson Construction
HEATHER DONOVAN Sterling State Bank
OMAR NUR Somali American Social Services Association
ULISES GONZALEZ Baser Freight
Rochester-area businesses are empowered to succeed in a diverse and collaborative climate. VISION
The Chamber promotes business success which supports a thriving community. MISSION
ADVERTISING INFORMATION Contact Emma Esteb at eesteb@rochestermnchamber.com
AUGUST 2025 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 3
LEMONADE DAY 2025: STIRRING UP SUCCESS
Feature
4 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2025
LEMONADE DAY 2025: STIRRING UP SUCCESS
Feature
Now in its fourth year, Lemonade Day – Rochester Area MN is an annual program led by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce that gives local youth hands-on experience in starting and running their own business — a lemonade stand. Through a series of fun and practical lessons, participants learn key skills like budgeting, goal setting, marketing, and customer service.
According to Shannon Gowen, events and programs director, and city director for Lemonade Day, this program “provides aspiring young entrepreneurs with the tools they need to build their own business and become confident leaders in their community. Lemonade Day not only teaches financial literacy and entrepreneurship skills, but it also teaches them how to set goals, achieve those goals and find creative ways to either invest in themselves or give back to those in need.”
AUGUST 2025 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 5
LEMONADE DAY 2025: STIRRING UP SUCCESS
Feature
as well as Tasting Day, and the official Lemonade Day was great to see,” O’Byrne says. As O’Byrne further points out, Lemonade Day brings such great value to Altra Federal Credit Union as a sponsor through the value that it brings to the youth in the community.
With over 500 participants from the Rochester area, including Byron and Stewartville, and nearly 45 businesses contributing their time and resources to the program, this year’s Lemonade Day was a tremendous success.
“Despite this being the fourth year of this program, it was my first year as the City Director. My predecessor, Ally Sheehan, did an incredible job introducing this program to the Rochester Area,
“Being able to tie our name in with the Rochester Chamber
and other great sponsors of Lemonade Day shows the youth that are
participating that we are there to support what they are doing and we will be there for them now, and in the future,” O’Byrne says. “Seeing them really use their brain power to put together a display, go through the courses, and understand the makings of a being a young
so it was important to me to keep up the momentum,” Gowen says. “It was truly amazing to see the level of impact that this program had on kids and their families, but also the local business community.”
"Getting the youth out in the community and really showing them that working hard and putting forth the effort that they do, will pay off and what better way to start that lesson in life sooner rather than later."
Eaen O’Byrne, office manager at Altra Federal Credit Union, the main squeeze sponsor of Lemonade Day, enjoyed the involvement that Lemonade Day created with the youth in the Rochester community.
entrepreneur really makes it all worth it. Getting the youth out in the community and really showing them that working hard and putting forth the effort that they do, will pay off and what better way to start that
lesson in life sooner rather than later.”
“Coming on as the ‘Main Squeeze’ sponsor broadened our opportunity with the Rochester Chamber to be more involved than we have in the past and seeing how excited the kids were for the new Lemon U course that was hosted,
Lemonade Day - Rochester Area MN wouldn't be possible without the strong support from the Chamber and community businesses, including: • Main Squeeze Sponsor: Altra Federal Credit Union • Fresh Squeeze Sponsor: Mayo Clinic and Shorewood Senior Campus • Lemon Drop Sponsor: Bremer Bank, Hy-Vee, Olmsted Medical Center, Rochester Athletic Club, UPS Store 7077, and Wings Credit Union • Lemon Twist Sponsor: Adolfson & Peterson Construction, Alerus Bank, Extraordinary Workforce, Groome Transportation, Haley Comfort Systems, People's Energy Cooperative, and Velair Property Management • Media Sponsor: KTTC and Townsquare Media
6 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2025
LEMONADE DAY 2025: STIRRING UP SUCCESS
Feature
AUGUST 2025 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 7
LEMONADE DAY 2025: STIRRING UP SUCCESS
Feature
She points out how these young leaders walk away not only with profits – but with confidence, purpose, and the belief that their ideas matter. Indeed, for Cate from Stewartville, Lemonade Day was her first experience learning what it really takes to develop and pursue an original business concept from beginning to end. “I was able to go to a [Lemon U Workshop] class to get started. The class helped me come up with a name for my lemonade stand, 'Cate's Cold Fresh Lemonade.' I chose this because I think people like cold lemonade, and fresh is best,” Cate says. “Then I thought about how my stand would look. My mom and I looked on Amazon for table supplies, and found a lot to choose from. The class taught us about the financial part of running a lemonade stand, needing to find an investor, paying them back, choosing a goal to save up for. It was fun. I liked setting it up and I was surprised at how generous and friendly the customers were.” Sisters Elina and Elise of E & E's Lemonade Squeeze, also participated in this year’s Lemonade Day for the first time. “We really liked our spot. Even though it started to rain a little, we had cover so it was okay. I loved meeting people and running our stand,” says Elina.
At Extraordinary Workforce, another supporter of Lemonade Day, the organization believes in building better workplaces – and that starts with investing in the future workforce. “That’s why sponsoring this year’s Lemonade Day was more than just an opportunity – it was a joy,” says Ann Dugstad, founder, principal consultant at Extraordinary Workforce. Dugstad says the most rewarding part of sponsoring Lemonade Day was seeing young people light up with excitement as they embraced the challenge of building their very own businesses. “From creating vibrant stands to pitching to passersby with confidence, these budding entrepreneurs embodied the spirit of innovation and grit,” Dugstad says. “As an organization that supports workplace development and leadership, watching those values take root in youth was both inspiring and affirming. It was especially meaningful to interact directly with participants and families and witness the pride they took in their hard work.” Dugstad believes that Lemonade Day delivers real- world learning in its most accessible, joyful form. For participants, it offers a taste of entrepreneurship that cultivates essential life skills: budgeting, marketing, problem-solving, and customer service.
8 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2025
LEMONADE DAY 2025: STIRRING UP SUCCESS
Feature
“It gave us the chance to champion entrepreneurship in our community and connect our brand with families, educators, and local leaders who also believe in empowering the next generation. In today’s workforce climate, cultivating early leadership and initiative is more important than ever. Lemonade Day helps bridge that gap – turning lemonade stands into launching pads for lifelong success." This year’s Lemonade Day saw a record-breaking turnout, with over 150 more youth registered than the previous year, marking the highest number of participants to date. The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce hopes to see the program continue to grow year after year, reaching even more young aspiring entrepreneurs. “We are always looking for creative ways to engage with new and past participants, as well as expand our reach to local youth organizations, including afterschool programs, summer camps, you name it,” Gowen says who also noted that a new national program called Junior Market could offer returning participants a chance to grow their business beyond the lemonade stand in future years. Save The Date for the next Lemonade Day on Saturday, June 6, 2026!
"Our parents were our investors, like real business people, and we had to pay them back for the money they helped us with. That part wasn’t the most fun, but it’s what you do in a real business. And guess what? We still made a profit!"
Elisa adds that after developing their recipe, they worked on making their stand unique. “Our parents were our investors, like real business people, and we had to pay them back for the money they helped us with,” the girls explain. “That part wasn’t the most fun, but it’s what you do in a real business. And guess what? We still made a profit!” Finding a spot to sell was a little tricky at first. Two places told the sisters ‘no’ but they didn’t give up. Then they asked Sam’s Club and their manager said ‘yes.’ “We also asked our parents to help us tell people about our stand,” the girls say. “We posted on social media and sent messages to friends and family asking them to share it too. For payment, we took cash and Venmo. Having a cashless option was super helpful because people could still support us even if they didn’t have money on them. We totally want to do it again next year. This time we just sold lemonade but next year we want to add snacks and give away free stickers.” As a sponsor, Dugstad found the value was equally profound. “Lemonade Day aligns beautifully with our mission to foster engaged, capable, and future-ready talent,” Dugstad says.
WE DESIGN, PRINT & PROMOTE...YOU! WE DESIGN, PRINT & PROMOTE...YOU!
rochester.minutemanpress.com rochester.minutemanpress.com
Grow your Business with Minuteman Press
• Promotional Products • Apparel Decorating • Custom Designed Print • Complete Direct Mail Service • And More...
mn208.minuteman.com (507) 288-4777 1316 7th St NW Rochester, MN 55901
Ask about this month’s promotion!
AUGUST 2025 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 9
2025 LEGISLATIVE REVIEW
Feature
The 2025 legislative session was one for the history books. Following the end of the previous DFL trifecta, the Minnesota House became evenly split between Democrats and Republicans, an event that has occurred only once before in state history, while the Senate saw a narrow one-seat majority. The session faced a delayed start due to a three-week boycott, and despite the May 19th deadline, final budget bills weren’t passed until June 9th and 10th, narrowly avoiding a government shutdown. While key Chamber priorities such as the passage of a bonding bill and modifications to Paid Family Medical Leave did not progress, there are still many successes to celebrate. 2025 LEGISLATIVE REVIEW Hear from local legislators about the 2025 legislative session and the impacts to the business community.
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. Tina Liebling (District 24B) or Rep. Andy Smith (District 25B).
2025 LEGISLATIVE REVIEW
Feature
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Despite the workforce need, the bill unfortunately did not advance. A similar fate ensued for HF3089/SF3164, which would have allocated funds for the expansion of the University of Minnesota Rochester’s health sciences campus and programming to address the healthcare workforce needs in the state. During the legislature’s special session, SF17 was passed, allocating $375k annually for the Bridges to Healthcare program. Despite it not being the full requested amount, this funding plays a key role in addressing workforce shortages while providing career education, job skills training for low- income parents, non-native English speakers, and other individuals seeking careers in high demand healthcare fields. Additionally, the P-TECH program, a key tool in preparing students for a successful career with academic, technical, and professional skills saw the program process clarified and funds allocated during the special session. HOUSING In the housing sector, HF457/SF768 the Catalyzing Underutilized Building Tax Credit (CUB), was backed by the Chamber to strengthen Minnesota’s economy by incentivizing reinvestment in underutilized properties for housing. Benefits of this bill include stronger commercial districts, stabilized property value and tax base, and job creation and economic growth. However, CUB failed to advance this session, leaving the potential for fewer jobs, higher costs for businesses, and weakened economic vitality. GENERAL BUSINESS A successfully defeated proposal was HF974/SF2045, the Internet Tax Bill, which if enacted, would have hindered broadband expansion and affordability for Minnesota businesses and consumers. Specifically, the bill would have required broadband providers to negotiate new franchise agreements leading to increased costs and slowed broadband deployment, a policy straying from the Chamber’s goals of growth and innovation. CONTINUED ADVOCACY AND ENGAGEMENT Throughout the 2025 legislative session, the Chamber remained focused on fostering relationships between Chamber members, our local delegation, and legislative leadership. We are grateful for their openness to dialogue and discussion on the impacts of policy on the business community. We were also proud to bring back the Rochester Area Chamber Day at the Capitol which provided businesses an opportunity to engage directly with legislators.
INFRASTRUCTURE/BONDING Although 2025 was a budget year, there remained hope that a bonding bill would be passed, especially following the lack of one in the 2024 session. The bonding priorities of the City of Rochester and Olmsted County were once again included in the Chamber’s legislative agenda. Unfortunately, key local projects such as the Highway 14 interchanges CSAH 3 and CSAH 5, sewer infrastructure investments to support housing development, the integrated resource recovery facility, and others went unfunded again due to the lack of a bonding bill. The Chamber will continue to work with our local legislators to champion these beneficial projects for our community next session. MANDATES Over the past biennium, Chamber members have consistently voiced concerns about the Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program, particularly the need for meaningful modifications prior to its implementation on January 1, 2026. Numerous bills were introduced in the 2025 session aimed at reforming PFML, including: • HF11/SF2529, which proposed a one-year delay in implementation • HF1976/SF2466, a GOP-led proposal to modify leave duration, narrow the definition of family member, and scale benefits based on employer size • HF2962/SF3141, a bipartisan bill that would have exempted businesses with fewer than 15 employees, adjusted the definition of family member, expanded the definition of seasonal employee, and revised the program's total length. Despite broad business community interest, none of these proposals advanced due to political dynamics at the Capitol. Nevertheless, the Chamber was pleased to engage in productive conversations with Representative Dave Pinto, Co-Chair of the House Workforce, Labor, and Economic Development Finance and Policy Committee. These discussions provided businesses a platform to voice concerns and offer constructive feedback on reducing the program’s negative impacts. We were also pleased to partner with the Rochester Area SHRM Chapter in our PFML advocacy efforts, expanding our coalition to over 100 businesses. WORKFORCE Following licensure compact expansion during the 2024 session, HF1925/SF2608, the Nurse Licensure Compact, was reintroduced this session as a potential tool to reduce barriers to employment and address workforce gaps.
12 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2025
2025 LEGISLATIVE REVIEW
Feature
Sen. Liz Boldon DISTRICT 25
Rep. Kim Hicks DISTRICT 25A
Looking back on the 2025 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community? There were many difficult decisions to be made this legislative session, but one
Looking back on the 2025 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community? The 2025 legislative session was all about keeping the ship on course. Democrats
that I am particularly concerned about is the decision to further raise the tax on cannabis products. There was a broad menu of options on the table for raising revenue, including a first-in-the-nation tax on social media corporations for the data they extract and profit off of from everyday Minnesotans. However, Republicans chose to further set back the successful rollout of a legal cannabis industry by raising this tax. While a “sin tax” like this may be more politically palatable than other forms of revenue, in order for responsibly regulated cannabis businesses in our community and state to thrive, we must reduce the incentives that drive consumers to the illicit market. Raising the cannabis tax does the opposite. What is a major takeaway from the 2025 session? There were two sets of agendas at the legislature this session, and the differences were stark. Democrats were focused on preserving the quality government services that Minnesotans depend on while also preparing responsibly for the deluge of cuts coming down from the federal government, while Republicans were focused on eliminating as many services and programs as possible while refusing to acknowledge the coming impacts of the new federal administration. At the end of the day, Republicans were so insistent on stripping access to healthcare and other services that they threatened to shutdown the state government unless they got their way. Meanwhile, Democrats remained committed to our responsibility to ensure continuance of the stable, reliable state government services that Minnesotans depend on. Despite being unhappy with many of the policy outcomes, I’m proud we successfully negotiated an end to the standoff and prevented the damaging government shutdown that some Republicans publicly advocated for.
held firm and successfully protected vital programs that Minnesotans are depending on to make life more affordable, like Universal School Meals, the North Star Promise, Paid Family and Medical Leave, and Earned Sick and Safe time, just to name a few. The latter two especially will have a growing positive impact on Rochester’s business community for years to come. Paid Family and Medical Leave will help smaller employers earn and retain top talent by allowing them to compete with large corporations by offering benefits that used to be too expensive for them to be able to offer. Maintaining Earned Sick and Safe Time ensures that Minnesotans can actually stay home when they’re sick, protecting their co-workers and themselves in the process. What is a major takeaway from the 2025 session? Despite a national political climate that feels rooted in division and an Administration that prioritizes burning bridges over building them, Minnesota is a prime example of what can be done when people with differing opinions work together under the same shared value: making Minnesota better. We couldn't have done this without the leadership of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, and to be frank, many of us have no idea what is coming next. The one thing we do know, however, is that Melissa would want us to remember that there is more that unites us than divides us. No matter who you are, where you’re from, or what you believe, we are One Minnesota.
AUGUST 2025 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 13
2025 LEGISLATIVE REVIEW
Feature
Rep. Duane Quam DISTRICT 24A
Sen. Carla Nelson DISTRICT 24
Looking back on the 2025 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community? This session, we were able to get several wins that will positively impact Rochester’s
Looking back on the 2025 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community? The 2025 session brought a few wins for Rochester businesses. We passed long-
business community. Also, we blocked harmful proposals for expanding the sales tax to professional services, and defeated costly mandates on health insurers and food manufacturers. I was especially happy for permitting reforms at the MPCA and expand small business assistance through Minnesota Business First Stop. Both of which will help local employers cut through red tape and move projects forward faster.We also protected hospitals and clinics by stopping massive provider tax increases and preserving facility fees, important for Rochester’s healthcare sector and patient access alike. What is a major takeaway from the 2025 session? The major takeaway from this session: divided government can still deliver meaningful, bipartisan results when we stay focused on practical solutions. I’ll continue working to make sure our region’s employers have the freedom to grow, hire, and invest in the future.
overdue permitting reforms and funding for mental health and substance abuse. Both areas have a direct impact on workforce stability and productivity. We lowered the payroll tax cap in the paid leave program to 1.1% and made practical updates to the earned sick time program. But it was frustrating that our efforts to exempt the smallest businesses from these mandates were ignored. Looking at the larger picture, Minnesota businesses should be concerned. After blowing through an $18 billion surplus in 2023 and raising taxes by $10 billion, we are now facing a $6 billion deficit. This session, taxes and fees were raised by another $4.2 billion. Our proposals to address waste and fraud were rejected. And even though critical services like nursing homes and disability programs saw funding cuts, state agencies still received large increases. These are misplaced priorities. What is a major takeaway from the 2025 session? Of all the takeaways from the 2025 session, the biggest one is missed opportunities. Urgent Rochester-area needs, like the shovel-ready Highway 14 interchanges near Byron and the Rochester Airport, were excluded from the bonding bill. There was little serious mandate relief for schools or businesses, and yet again, taxes and fees were increased. One of the most frustrating moments was when the state quietly ended funding for the Minnesota Partnership for Biotechnology and Medical Genomics. This 20-year collaboration between the University of Minnesota, Mayo Clinic, and the state has led to medical breakthroughs, clinical trials, and impactful research into diseases like Alzheimer’s. Cutting this kind of research is short-sighted and difficult to understand. Minnesota, and especially Rochester, has long been a global leader in medical innovation. I have no doubts we still will, but ending funding for the genomic partnership is a significant step in the wrong direction. This is another case of misplaced priorities.
14 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2025
2025 LEGISLATIVE REVIEW
Feature
Looking back on the 2025 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community? The people of Rochester, and all of Minnesota, continue to face higher costs, fewer Sen. Steve Drazkowski DISTRICT 20
Rep. Steve Jacob DISTRICT 20B
Looking back on the 2025 legislative session, what legislation will have a significant impact on the Rochester area business community? It wasn’t so much the legislation that was approved but the legislation that was
services, and too much government interference in their daily lives. The biennial budget passed by the legislature this year made it harder to start or grow a business, harder to hire workers, and harder for families to keep up. Having a tied House helped stop the most extreme proposals this year, but it’s not enough. We need budgets that are responsible with taxpayer dollars and that keep the heavy hand of government off small businesses as much as possible. We need to stop putting government first and start putting Minnesotans first. We need to encourage work, rather than incentivizing against it. What is a major takeaway from the 2025 session? The biggest takeaway is that Democrats keep growing government at the expense of the people it’s supposed to serve. The state of Minnesota does not have a revenue problem. It has a spending problem, and this session proved that again. Democrats gave every Walz administration agency a funding increase and raised taxes and fees on Minnesota workers and businesses by another $4.2 billion, yet they still cut funding for nursing homes, disability services, and special education. They showed they weren't serious about eliminating fraud in public programs. Families are facing higher healthcare costs. School districts, cities and counties, and small businesses didn’t get any relief from the mandates that have stretched their budgets thin, and long-term care providers were left behind. It is a clear case of bad priorities: The Governor and the DFL continue to grow our state's very large and controlling government, while leaving key priorities in the dust.
prevented thanks to Republicans having shared control of the Minnesota House. Following a budget cycle where an all-Democrat led legislature raised taxes by more than $10 billion at a time when Minnesota had a nearly $20 billion SURPLUS, Democrats again wanted to raise taxes this budget cycle after their decisions pushed our state into a record $6 billion deficit. Democrats proposed more than $8 billion in tax increases this year, and admitted numerous times on the House floor that they would have continued raising them if Republicans hadn’t fought hard to stop them. This would have had severe negative impacts on business owners in Rochester and beyond, and by stopping these tax increases they will be able to invest more into their products and their employees. What is a major takeaway from the 2025 session? Sadly, no significant changes to the Paid Family Leave program, which guarantees workers can take 12 weeks of paid family leave and 12 weeks of paid medical leave per year. Every employer with one employee is mandated to participate, and it is paid for through a nearly 1% payroll tax, split between workers and employers. I heard consistently throughout session from business owners and workers about the costly impacts of this program. Other than bringing down the cap on the payroll tax by 0.1%, lawmakers could not reach agreement on significant changes. Another major takeaway is the repeal of free health insurance for adult illegal immigrants. To date, free illegal immigrant health insurance was costing Minnesota’s taxpayers at least $550 million, while many of our legal citizens have been struggling to provide coverage for their own family. Eliminating this freebie for adult illegal immigrants was just common sense.
AUGUST 2025 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 15
FAMILY SERVICE ROCHESTER, INC.
Non-Profit Spotlight
Non-Profit Spotlight: Family Service Rochester, Inc. Taking an in-depth look at a local non-profit, Family Service Rochester and their community impact
When Brad Lohrbach assumed the position of Executive Director in 1995, FSR saw growth in our Child Welfare programs as a strong partnership with Olmsted County was solidified under his leadership. He helped advance Family Involvement Strategies with FSR becoming a national leader in this model. In 2015, Scott Maloney became FSR’s third Executive Director. That same year kicked-off, Neighbors Helping Neighbors, FSR’s array of chores and support services that help older adults, elders, and persons with disabilities remain in their homes. FSR provides school-based counselors in several school districts in the region. Family Advocacy in Recovery and Restoration (FARR) provides recovery support in six counties for 18+ pregnant and/or parenting women who have a history or currently struggle with substance use. FATHER Project assists fathers in overcoming the barriers that prevent them from supporting their children emotionally and economically. Please share a highlight of how your organization has impacted the region. At 60, FSR is looking forward to the continued impact they will have expanding services throughout southeast Minnesota. Earlier this year, FSR opened the Family Resource Center, an innovative approach to helping families thrive and succeed. The center offers free, family centered support to parents, caregivers, and kinship families. Since its opening in March 2025, the center has helped over one hundred families through playgroups, support groups, developmental screenings, and family advocacy services.
Tell us about Family Service Rochester. Family Service Rochester was founded in 1965 as a nonprofit organization with a staff of three and the mission to support and enhance the dignity and quality of life for individuals and families in our community. Now, a staff of around 150 along with 900+ volunteers offer a wide range of services addressing mental health, child-wellbeing, family stability, and senior independence. Family Service Rochester was registered as a non-profit corporation in the City of Rochester on May 22, 1964 as the Family Consultation Center, Inc. The original thirteen signers had constituted a steering committee appointed by the United Fund of Rochester to study the feasibility of forming a family service agency to serve the people of Rochester, Minnesota. The organization opened its doors as Family Counseling Services on February 1, 1965, with Glenn VanLaningham as its first Executive Director. What inspired the founding of Family Service Rochester in 1965? How has your organization evolved in the past 60 years? During Glenn VanLaningham’s leadership, the agency expanded from its adoption of a fledgling homemaker program operated by the Civic League in the 1960s to mergers in the 1990s with the Rochester Branch of Consumer Credit Counseling Services, and Sunrise, a chemical dependency treatment program. In the years before Glenn retired in 1995, FSR saw the start of Child Welfare Services, Parent Effectiveness Training, homemaker, home maintenance, and companionship services for seniors.
16 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2025
FAMILY SERVICE ROCHESTER, INC.
Non-Profit Spotlight
Family Service Rochester Executive Directors Brad Lohrbach, Glenn VanLaningham, and Scott Maloney
What’s an interesting fact about Family Service Rochester that most people don’t know? Family Service Rochester delivers more than 30 mental health, child well-being, family stability, and senior independence programs across 13 different Minnesota counties, including: Carlton, Dakota, Dodge, Fillmore, Goodhue, Houston, Kandiyohi, Mower, Olmsted, Rice, Steele, Wabasha, and Waseca.
How can the community become involved in the important work Family Service Rochester does? Over the years, thousands of volunteers chose FSR as their way to connect with people needing assistance in their community. Their contributions of time and talent make many of FSR services possible. In 2024, 900 individuals and 70 groups (500+ people) contributed 21,700 hours of service. Opportunities for individuals and groups to volunteer are always available at https://familyservicerochester.org/Volunteering.
AUGUST 2025 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 17
LAKE CITY FLORAL
Meet the Member
Meet the Member: Lake City Floral
Each month, we learn from a Chamber member about their business, history, a unique fact, and their outlook Nestled along the scenic shores of the Mississippi River, Lake City Floral has become a trusted destination for beautiful, high-quality floral arrangements and thoughtful gifts. Just 45 minutes from Rochester, this vibrant, family-run shop—led by Madison, with support from her mom JoAnn and brother Tanner—brings creativity, care, and personal touch to every bouquet. Whether it's a wedding, a memorial, or a spontaneous gesture, Lake City Floral offers custom designs and heartfelt services that stand apart. We spoke with Co-Owner, Madison Johnston, to learn more about their journey, services, and what sets them apart in the floral industry.
18 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2025 Lake City Floral is a vibrant, family-run business powered by a dynamic trio with Madison, JoAnn,and Tanner. Together, they craft stunning floral creations that capture life’s moments—big and small.
LAKE CITY FLORAL
Meet the Member
Q: Tell us about Lake City Floral. What does your company offer to the Rochester region? A : Lake City Floral (formerly known as Lake Pepin Floral and Gifts) has been Lake City and the Lake Pepin area’s trusted source for high-quality flowers, custom floral arrangements, and gift products for any occasion. We also provide funeral and wedding floral services. Lake City is located right on the Mississippi River about 45 minutes from Rochester and a little over an hour from the Twin Cities making it a great short scenic escape destination especially in the summertime. Q: How did it start for Lake City Floral? A: Lake City Floral was created on a whim when just as the town’s cherished flower shop, Lake Pepin Floral faced permanent closure by its previous owner after a successful 20 years in business run. JoAnn has always had a lifelong dream of owning a flower shop. Madison was also ready to do something new and Tanner was willing to come along for the ride so we made the leap and acquired the business as well as it’s sky-high reputation for excellence and got to work learning all the ropes of owning a flower shop. We had no prior experience and we continue to learn and do our best each day for our awesome community. It has been an overwhelmingly great experience so far. Q: Lake City Floral has been a member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce for two years. What do you find valuable in your membership to the organization? A: The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce is by far the most effective Chamber in the area in terms of providing an array of beneficial services to members. The reach and endless networking opportunities the organization offers is also amazing and I would highly encourage members to utilize them to their fullest. Lastly, the chamber is a huge advocate for its members and really stands for ideology, including political, that is business friendly. Q: What is a unique fact people should know about Lake City Floral? A: Lake City Floral is a vibrant, family-run business powered by a dynamic trio: Madison, the creative visionary and driving force behind the operation; JoAnn, the nurturing mom whose wisdom and warmth infuse every arrangement with heart; and Tanner, the spirited brother who brings energy and practicality to the mix. Together, we craft stunning floral creations that capture life’s moments—big and small.
Q: What is the outlook for your organization and industry? A: The outlook for the entire floral industry remains challenging and difficult. The industry is very fragmented with flowers in many frequently visited locations people go such as grocery and convenience stores. The products these places provide are typically not to the high quality standards of a true florist. Florists also provide expertise and service that is above and beyond higher frequency locations. It remains very important to support your local florists for your floral needs.
To learn more about Lake City Floral, visit http://lakecityfloral.com
AUGUST 2025 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 19
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 Weller Brothers Landscape Professionals! Weller Brothers provides landscape design and full-service lawn care to residential and business clients within 50 miles of Rochester, MN. Date: Friday, August 1, 2025 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Weller Brothers Landscape Professionals, 4701 N Frontage Road Hwy 14 NW, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested
In September, join us with Family Service Rochester and co- host Think Bank! Family Service Rochester was founded in 1965 as a nonprofit organization with a mission to support and enhance the dignity and quality of life for individuals and families in our community. With industry-high customer satisfaction and employee engagement ratings every year, Think Bank is known for our culture of caring, curiosity, and optimism.
Date: Friday, September 5, 2025 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Family Service Rochester, Main Office, 4600 18th Ave NW, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3TrRIlH
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4lN3Ael
20 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2025
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 for a block party! 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 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 18, 2025 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Reagan Outdoor Advertising, 3185 41st St NW, Rochester Admission: Free, registration requested
Date: Wednesday, August 20, 2025 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/4nBORUY
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3IdoggP
AUGUST 2025 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 21
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
Join the Chamber on Tuesday afternoon, August 26, for an engaging and interactive event bringing journalists from multiple news stations, communications professionals, and individuals who have been featured in the media. The event is tailored to build stronger relationships between media outlets and their sources, learn best practices for communications, and best represent yourself and company in a positive light. AGENDA • Communications: Press Releases • Geno Palazzari, Communications Manager, Destination Medical Center • News: Interview/ Media Training • Sheriff Kevin Torgerson, Olmsted County Sheriffs Office • KIMT News 3 • News: Best Practices to get Media Attention • KAAL • Post Bulletin Date: Tuesday, August 26, 2025 Time: 1:00pm-2:30pm Location: Benedictine Living Community of Rochester - Madonna Towers, 4001 19 th Ave NW, Rochester Admission: Free for members, $10 for general admission, registration required Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/40FZagY Media Training & Best Practices
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. Date: Thursday, September 25, 2025 Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm Location: McQuillan Fields, 1655 Marion Rd. SE, Rochester Admission: $40 per individual, $400 per team (10 players), registration required by Saturday, September 20
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/4jKvOWf
PRESENTING SPONSOR Event Sponsors
Event Sponsor
SERIES
DUGOUT SPONSORS
HOST
22 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2025
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
Team Up for a Unique Match Play Golf Tournament with Rotating Formats
CHAMBER CUP SPONSOR Event Sponsor
CART SPONSOR
DRINK CART SPONSOR
HAZARD SPONSOR
HOLE SPONSORS Secure Strategic Technology | Waste Management
The Chamber Cup isn’t your typical golf tournament, it’s a Ryder Cup-style team golf event that brings the spirit of match play, strategy, and camaraderie to the forefront. Four-person teams will go head-to-head in rotating formats like alternate shot and best ball, making every swing count. Designed for those who love a little friendly rivalry, the Chamber Cup offers pride, bragging rights, and a trophy on the line. Date: Wednesday, September 10, 2025 Time: 9:30am-7:00pm Location: Willow Creek Golf Course, 1700 48th St. SW, Rochester Admission: $840 for a team, $210 for an individual, registration required
You’re invited! You’re invited!
Di a mond Jubilee Diamond Jubilee Tuesday, September 30, 2025 | 4-8pm Hilton Rochester 10 E Center St, Rochester, MN Tuesday, September 30, 2025 | 4-8pm Hilton Rochester 10 E Center St, Rochester, MN
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/3YF4ssf
AUGUST 2025 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 23
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Chamber News
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.
Maintaining a strong relationship between the business community and higher education is essential, and the EduTech Outlook event provides an ideal platform to do so. From updates on projects and initiatives, to identifying emerging workforce trends, this annual event fosters collaboration and engagement between the private sector and educational institutions. With the rise in new technologies, the 2025 EduTech Outlook will include speakers on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. As these technologies become ever more important, hear from experts on the how of these technologies intersect with both business and higher education.
AUGUST Date: Friday, August 15, 2025 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: TBA at Rochester Community and Technical College Admission: Free, registration required SEPTEMBER Date: Friday, September 19, 2025 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Bloom Acai Cafe, 2483 Commerce Dr NW Space 200, Rochester Admission: Free, registration required
AGENDA: • Cybersecurity/Artificial Intelligence • Student Perspective Panel • Higher Education Leadership Panel Date: Wednesday, October 1, 2025 Time: 8:00am-10:30am Location: TBA
Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/40UL8Xi
Admission: $35 for members, $50 for general admission, registration is required by Wednesday, September 24 Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/44liceX Event Sponsors PRESENTING
Event Sponsors WELCOME
KNXR - Minnesota 97.5 Winona State University - Rochester
24 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2025
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 series, 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 WORKSHOP SERIES: ELEVATE YOUR SKILLS Dive into engaging and informative workshops with several topics to be announced. • The Use of Lean Strategies to Enhance Leadership Behavior • Ronald Menaker, Ed.D., FACMPE, MBA, Administrator-Emeritus, Mayo Clinic • The Power of Transparent Communication
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: LEADING IMPERFECTLY The value of being authentic for leaders, professionals, and human beings James Robilotta, CSP ® , Author, Certified Speaking Professional ™ , Trained Improv Comedian, and Entrepreneur
Let's talk about who you are personally as a leader and as a partner. As humans, we can't learn things from people who are perfect, we can only learn things from people who are imperfect. So, it is time to own who you are so you can be real to others and lead through your faults. This deep but hysterical session will leave you feeling introspective about the person you show to others and recognize the rapport and trust building power of authenticity in your communication and relationships. If you're looking to master the art of courageous feedback and authentic relationship building, this is the session for you. Admission: $50 for members, $60 for general admission, special pricing for RYT Network members (contact Claire for more information), registration is required Table: $350 for a reserved table of 8 plus company name in promotion of event, contact Claire Henneman at chenneman@rochestermnchamber.com if interested Register by scanning or visiting: https://bit.ly/44U78pd Date: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 Time: 1:00pm-4:00pm
• Ann Dugstad, Founder and Principal Consultant, Extraordinary Workforce
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. • Will Forsman, Co-Owner/Manager, Café Steam and Colorway Coffee Roasters • Juliana Lane, Assistant General Manager, Broadway Plaza • Brian Morgan, Senior Engineer, SEH • More to be announced soon!
Event Sponsors
SILVER SPONSOR
TABLE SPONSOR
Kraus-Anderson
AUGUST 2025 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 25
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 40Made with FlippingBook Annual report maker