february 2009 - Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce
Transcription
february 2009 - Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce
FEBRUARY 2009 2009 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chamber Perspectives by Dick Ward AMBASSADOR SITINGS Sharon Olwin, December Ambassador of the Month IN THE NEWS Make the Most of your 2009 Membership FEATURED ARTICLE J OIN US FOR THE A NNUAL M EETING - G ENERAL M EMBERSHIP L UNCHEON & C HARLES D E B ONO V OLUNTEER OF THE Y EAR P RESENTATION T HURSDAY , F EBRUARY 19 TH 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM AT G RACE C HURCH The Eden Prairie Chamber’s Annual Meeting is a chance to learn more about the Chamber’s successes from 2008 and plans for 2009. Join us to hear about our growth of the organization, program & event success, and our objectives & changes for 2009. You will also hear from each of our Committee Chairs to learn what our committee opportunities are and which group might be right for you. If you have not attended our Annual Meeting previously, please make a point to attend on February 19th. We will be presenting the prestigious Charles DeBono Award to our outstanding Volunteer of the Year (see details below). Grace Church is located at 9301 Eden Prairie Road in Eden Prairie. The cost to attend is $25 for Chamber Members and their guests or $40 for non-Members. RSVPs are required by 2:00 PM on Wednesday, February 18th. Sign up online at epchamber.org or call us to RSVP at (952) 944-2830. THIS LUNCHEON IS SPONSORED BY: ZANE BIRKY, EDWARD JONES INVESTMENTS By Melissa Krull, Superintendent of Eden Prairie Schools MEMBERSHIP CORNER Job Transitioning 2009 Program Details WOMEN’S NETWORK MEMBER RECOGNITION UPCOMING EVENTS MEMBER REWARDS This publication is produced by: The Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce 1455 Viking Dr. #270 Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Ph: 952-944-2830 Fax: 952-944-0229 Website: www.epchamber.org What is the Charles DeBono Volunteer Appreciation Award? The Charles DeBono Volunteer Appreciation Award recognizes an individual that has made outstanding contributions to volunteering in the Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce and the Community. The Charles DeBono Volunteer Appreciation Award was created in 1998 in memory and honor of Charles DeBono, a long time Chamber supporter and volunteer who portrayed all of the characteristics of a genuine volunteer. The award is given at the Chamber’s February luncheon to a Chamber Member who exemplifies Charlie’s dedication and support. The criteria for the award to be presented to an Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce Member is that the individual must have exhibited a strong commitment and dedication to the organization in a volunteer capacity, established staying power, developed or implemented new programming, served as a role model for volunteerism, and made a positive impact on the Chamber and/or the Eden Prairie community in his/her volunteer role. Past Recipients 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 Mary Jane Wissner Jeanne Zetah Dr. Jean L. Harris Scott Thiss Mary Anderson 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Joe Stoebner Kathleen Watson Roy Terwilliger Tim Samuelson Brian Kelly Pictured here is the 2008 Recipient, Brian Kelly posing with his family after accepting his award. C HAMBER P ERSPECTIVES The economic events that have occurred in our country and around the world in the past year or so have caused most companies in virtually every industry to alter their business plans which has had an impact on nearly everyone. If one listens only to the news, you won’t hear or see all the good things that are happening around us. In mid January, your Chamber hosted the Annual State of the City event at the Community Center. This event is very unique in that we have the opportunity to hear presentaDick Ward ‘09 Board Chair tions from our school Superintendent, our City Equity Property Manager and of course from our Chamber Group President. Each of them presented a review of 2008 and then outlined what they expected in 2009, which included some opportunities as well as challenges. After listening to this entire presentation it becomes very obvious that we live and work in a community that is blessed with leadership that is very passionate about the quality of life in our community and totally understands what that means to the health and success of our businesses within our community. Eden Prairie was well represented at the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce’s annual Legislative Sessions Priorities dinner at the RiverCentre in St. Paul. This event is held in conjunction with the first week of the legislative session and is attended by virtually every member of the State legislature. Prior to this event the Minnesota Chamber unveils their member priorities for the upcoming legislative session. For this year the Minnesota Chamber will be involved in over 50 issues. However, their priority issues for this year are as follows: ∗ State Budget: Balance the state budget without a general fund tax increase. ∗ Workforce: Ensure that businesses have an adequate sup- ply of skilled workers to compete in today’s global economy by advancing reforms in the K-12 education system. To ensure that taxpayers receive the greatest value for every dollar spent on the state’s infrastructure system. ∗ Transportation Efficiency: Climate change legislation should be addressed on the national and international levels. State lawmakers should not pass any state or regional cap and trade policy due to the negative economic impact on businesses and families, and the high probability that a state specific program will not solve or even reduce the problem. ∗ Climate Change: ∗ Nuclear Power: Change the existing state law so nuclear energy is an option for Generation of additional and necessary base-load power. We will provide you with periodic updates of each of these issues as the legislature progresses through their session this year. 2 MEMBER PERSPECTIVES… “There are many ways one can try to grow their businesses, but having a strong marketing team behind you is a step in the right direction, especially during these times. I have found that team in my Eden Prairie Chamber Membership. Without a doubt, we wouldn't have had the strong sales increase in 2008 without the support and fellowship of the Chamber and it's members. If you're interested in growing your business, stop in for breakfast any Wednesday morning and check out our marketing team! Contact Laura at the Chamber for details!” - Bryan Erickson, Minuteman Press Eden Prairie "Check Engine Express is a unique type of auto repair service where we pickup our customer’s vehicle, do the repair, and deliver the vehicle back to the customer. Since we're a new business, our biggest challenge is getting new customers. Our membership with the Eden Prairie Chamber has proven to be the best investment our business has ever made! We attend many of the networking events offered every month by the Chamber, and our growing client base is a direct result of our active participation with the Chamber." - Ann Sangpan, Check Engine Express “During an economic downturn the question is always, “How can I maintain my bottom line”? I work really hard to save businesses money, but not everyone cares to hear my message. Since the day I joined the Chamber I became involved in just about every event that was offered. I have had the opportunity not only do business with direct members, but have also been introduced to their friends and customers thus improving my bottom line beyond my best projections. Beyond the bottom line, I have met some truly wonderful people that I would otherwise have never crossed paths with.” - Travis Kuske, Heartland Payment Systems Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce • 11455 Viking Dr. #270, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Ph: 952-944-2830 • Fax: 952-944-0229 • Website: www.epchamber.org A MBASSADORS & N EW M EMBER S ITE V ISITS The Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors serve as good will representatives in the EP business community. They learn about member businesses & their needs, and encourage membership retention through communication of Chamber benefits. Ambassadors are often the first & most and consistent contact for new members. Look below to see what our Ambassadors have been up to lately with our newest members! Corporate Fitness & Wellness LLC (952) 513-2131 corpfitwell.com CONGRATS SHARON OLWIN! December Ambassador of the Month When Shari (pictured here with 2009 Ambassador Co-Chairs Glenn Schwartz and Adam Weinblatt), started Business Support Center in August of 1996, one of her first decisions was to join the Eden Prairie Chamber. She became involved in the Ambassadors soon after joining and has loved watching the Chamber expand their programs and grow in Membership. Shari is convinced the reason for the Eden Prairie Chamber's success is they are known for their welcoming, supportive and fun members and staff! Business Support Center provides administrative support to individuals and businesses in need of assistance on an as needed/hourly basis. Their goal is to help free up more time for their clients to spend focusing on revenue generating and profitable activities. Some of the services offered by Business Support Center include word processing, mail merge, mailing labels, newsletters, holiday cards, data entry and database maintenance, assistance with conferences and events, as well as other business support and administrative services. THANKS TO THE AMBASSADORS WHO ATTENDED THESE SITE VISITS! Koska Travel Services (952) 947-9266 koskatravel.com Swingtown Marketing Group (612) 850-9931 swingtownmarketing.com Brett Brakemeier, Integra Telecom Tracy Monaco, Brunswick Zone Dr. Adrienne Castrovinci, Healthy Living Chiropractic Sharon Olwin, Business Support Center Deb Claus, Bloomington Carpet One Cyrea Pechtel, Aurora Jewelers Marilyn Coulter, Bremer Bank Glenn Schwartz, Attorney at Law Carrie Dolinar, Pro Staff Todd Warner, Phoenix Technology Solutions Jo Freese, CruiseOne Kathleen Watson, Client Connections Bruce Harries, Creative Graphics Jeana Watts, Storganize Travis Kuske, Heartland Payment Systems Adam Weinblatt, Liberty Mutual Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce • 11455 Viking Dr. #270, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Ph: 952-944-2830 • Fax: 952-944-0229 • Website: www.epchamber.org 3 MAKE THE MOST OF 2009! A GUIDE TO THE LATEST & GREATEST CHAMBER OPPORTUNITIES By Chamber President, Pat MulQueeny The staff of the Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce hopes you had a wonderful holiday season and we want to wish you a successful New Year! 2009 is a special year – the Chamber turns 40! We have some new programs we are starting and will be working on an event to help us commemorate our 40th year. Here are some special dates for you to get on your calendar now: Thursday, February 19th – Join us for our Annual Meeting Luncheon where we recap the Chamber’s successes from 2008, outline our programs for 2009, hear from our committee chairs on what their committees have planned, and recognize our Volunteer of the Year with our Charles DeBono Award. Saturday, March 21st – Celebrate the start of Spring by attending the Chamber’s Home, Landscape and Garden Everything Spring Expo. The Expo is held at Grace Church from 9:00 – 3:00 and is free to attend. Monday, July 13th – Don’t miss the Chamber’s Annual Golf Tournament held at Bearpath Golf and Country Club. This annual event will sell out and we don’t want anyone left out. Other programs and opportunities for 2009 include our Leadership Eden Prairie Program, Human Resource Roundtable, Small Business Brown Bag lunch series and a Coupon Book Advertising Offer. One question that is frequently asked by businesses that are joining as a new member is, “What do I get for my money”? Here is just a sample of what our members get: Networking In 2008, the Chamber held 125 programs and events that attracted over 5,000 attendees. We have programs in the morning, over lunch and afternoon/evening to accommodate anyone’s schedule. In addition, we had 122 businesses join as members in 2008 – building even more opportunities for networking. If you, key employees or your sales person hasn’t been involved, then 2009 should be your year to utilize these opportunities to help your business succeed and grow. Public Policy The Chamber has a very strong government affairs program. Our Government Committee works on issues relating to our member businesses including transportation – both state, regional and local, Flying Cloud Airport expansion, Hennepin County Light Rail, wayfinding and street signage in Eden Prairie, streetscaping issues, and issues facing our local city and school district. In addition, we have worked hard to have very positive working relationships with our elected officials and many of them attend our programs – giving you the opportunity to discuss items with them directly. Community Building Many of you already know we were the first Chamber in the nation to have a Student Membership Program (many others have now duplicated our program). The Chamber looks for opportunities to help build a stronger community in the future. From our efforts and partnerships with area schools, the city, and other community organizations, we look to help our businesses get involved and be a part of new and exciting ways to impact our community. We provide awards and scholarships recognizing excellence – to date we have given out almost $60,000 in scholarships to area students. In addition, we are looking beyond our borders for these opportunities and this year we are providing the opportunity for local leaders and residents to go to China as part of our Familiarization and Trade trip in March. Other items the Chamber provides are marketing and advertising for your business, website promotion, Certificate of Origin Stamp (free of charge for members—for shipping products overseas), and much more. We know that in times of uncertainty, businesses look for help in marketing their products and services, opportunities to network with other business people and more advocacy support at the local and state levels. The Chamber can help you with all of these and more. Please call us if you have any questions at 952-944-2830. We look forward to another great year!! 4 Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce • 11455 Viking Dr. #270, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Ph: 952-944-2830 • Fax: 952-944-0229 • Website: www.epchamber.org F EATURED ARTICLE OUR COLLECTIVE FUTURE BY MELISSA KRULL, PH.D., SUPERINTENDENT OF EDEN PRAIRIE SCHOOLS It’s a new day in Eden Prairie Schools. As you know, the public schools in this community have an outstanding reputation and long history of excellence. But, like many businesses, we are having to navigate the challenging waters of change to ensure that we remain a premier school district in the state and in the country long into the future. We are taking a close look at the students coming through our doors and their changing needs. At our schools, for example, just in the last five years, the number of students who come from lowincome households has increased more than 40 percent and the number of students of color has increased by more than 70 percent. In addition, we currently serve over 400 students for whom English is not their first language. Knowing this, it is our responsibility and moral imperative to vigorously work toward our districtwide goal of ensuring the high academic achievement of ALL learners. We know that we excel at meeting the needs of most students, but we are striving to meet the needs of ALL— regardless of their race, home language, or family income level. We aggressively embrace the notion that every child deserves to reach his/her full potential. We could choose to rest on our awards and accomplishments: the fact that 13 of our students have been named National Merit Scholar Semi-Finalists (one of the highest academic honors possible). In addition, we have 23 Commended students, 157 AP and National AP Scholars, and our ACT scores are among the top in the country. But we must recognize that, as with most other school districts in this country, we are able to predict varied academic achievement of our students based on zip-code, linguistic, economic, and racial differences and disparities. Committing to the “status quo” in light of these achievement disparities is not acceptable. No exceptions…no excuses. And, also like many businesses, we are going to have to make the necessary changes while reducing our budget. Proactive financial planning has enabled us to balance our budget for the last five years without having to ask voters to approve additional funding. However, with the state’s significant deficit, we cannot expect to receive any increase in funding for the next two years. We are considering running a referendum next November, while at the same time reducing our budget even further, in order to cover an estimated $10 million shortfall in 2010. Like many of you, Eden Prairie Schools has challenges ahead, but what has helped make us strong in the past, will continue to make a difference in the lives of students as we embark on this time of change— unwavering community support. We thank you for all that you do to support our work and look forward to continuing to exceed your expectations. Nominate the 2009 Golden Apple Recipients! ~~~~~~ See the inserts in this newsletter to nominate someone for the following Golden Apple Awards: 1. 2. Outstanding Contributions by a Business to the Quality of Education Outstanding Project Award Individual Achievement/Service Award Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce • 11455 Viking Dr. #270, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Ph: 952-944-2830 • Fax: 952-944-0229 • Website: www.epchamber.org 5 M EMBERSHIP C ORNER HUMAN RESOURCES ROUNDTABLE KICKS OFF ON FEBRUARY 4TH The Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce one of our newest programs – our HR Roundtable. The HR Roundtable will provide a forum for HR Professionals and business leaders to discuss best practices in human resource management, discuss HR issues and assist members in finding solutions to HR management concerns in employment, compensation, benefits, training, development and HR Law. Participants will need to have human resources as part of their responsibilities. Our goal is to build a peer group that will help local human resource professionals to share best practices and learn from one another. The HR Roundtable will meet 9 times a year and rotate to member’s offices. The first HR Roundtable is being held at GE Fleet Services on February 4th from 7:30 - 9:00 AM. The speaker is Lynnette Heath, Vice President, HR, GE Capital Solution (pictured left). Lynnette will be discussing how to retain employees in difficult times, employee engagement, the 5 GE focus areas, and the GE communication model. GE Fleet Services is located at Three Capital Drive in Eden Prairie. The cost to attend is $20 for Chamber Members & their guests or $35 for Non-Members (see below for annual pricing). This price includes breakfast. You must RSVP by contacting Pat MulQueeny at (952) 944-2830. To participate in the full year, the cost will be $150 for Chamber Members and $250 for non-members (your $20 fee for this session can be applied to the full year amount). Get up to speed on our NEW PROGRAMS FOR 2009! Brown Bag Lunch Series for small businesses These monthly programs begin Thursday, February 5th at 11:30 at the Chamber Office. Join us for a presentation by Martha Capps on “Marketing & Promoting Your Business in a Changing Economy.” Martha (pictured right), principal of Capps Marketing, will present ideas to get you thinking and moving on how to best market your business in today’s economic times. She will provide strategies for focusing your marketing efforts, a perspective to help you find the up-side in down times and motivation for you to take a fresh look at your business model. Speed Networking BINGO The Chamber is excited to provide this unique networking opportunity! Speed networking BINGO is designed for those whose business success depends on word-of-mouth referrals & marketing. Structured and fast paced, Speed networking allows participants to interact with other professionals one-on-one, for a set period of time. Join us Wednesday, February 25th from 7:30 - 9:00 AM at Sofitel Minneapolis. B I N G O Please RSVP for ALL programs by 2PM the day prior to the event. Sign up online at epchamber.org or call us at (952) 944-2830. ATTENTION NEW OR PROSPECTIVE CHAMBER MEMBERS Don’t miss Chamber 101 on Friday, February 20th! We will be hosting our New & Prospective Membership Orientation Program, “Chamber 101”at the Eden Prairie Chamber Office from 7:30 - 8:30 AM on Friday, February 20th. This presentation includes an overview of the Chamber’s services, committees, events, advertising and sponsorship options, as well as additional value-added programs available for Chamber Members. You will also have the chance to network with current Members and hear their experiences with programs, committees and events. As a new or prospective Chamber Member, please plan on attending this FREE session. RSVP on the website or call Alli Hicks. A special thanks to D. Brian’s Deli & Catering for providing a continental breakfast & coffee! If you have questions or would like to RSVP, contact Alli Hicks at [email protected] or (952) 944-2830 6 Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce • 11455 Viking Dr. #270, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Ph: 952-944-2830 • Fax: 952-944-0229 • Website: www.epchamber.org M EMBERSHIP C ORNER DO YOU HAVE A POSITION THAT NEEDS TO BE FILLED? ARE YOU IN THE MIDST OF A JOB TRANSITION? WE CAN HELP! Post your jobs at epchamber.org! The Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce wants to help you find your next new employee! To post your open position on epchamber.org, simply send the job details to [email protected]. Use a Chamber Staffing Firm to hire your next employee! Aerotek Inc. (952) 853-9899 Ambrion (952) 278-1807 CHOICE, Inc. (952) 474-9510 Express Employment Professionals (952) 915-2000 M & A Executive Search (952) 545-6980 Pro Staff (952) 975-0106 Robert Half Intl./Accountemps (952) 831-5970 Valley Staffing Group (952) 445-1180 Vicki Brown—Ajilon (952) 882-9376 Volt Services Group (952) 943-8337 In transition? Visit one of these groups that meet weekly or monthly to assist you in your job transition: Grace Church: “CrossRoads Career Network” Meets the first Thursday of every month at 7:30 AM. They meet in room M209 at Grace Church, 9301 Eden Prairie Road, Eden Prairie. They have topical talks relevant to job searches and also offer small groups and a time of networking. Phone: (952) 926-1884 Wooddale Church: “Job Transition Group” Meets Mondays at 7:15 AM. They meet in the Great Room at Wooddale Church, 6630 Shady Oak Road, Eden Prairie. Phone: (952)-944-6300 St. Andrew Lutheran Church: “Job Transition” Meets Wednesdays, 11:30 to 1:00. They meet in the Fellowship Hall at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 13600 Technology Dr. The group is lead by senior pastor Rod Anderson. For more information visit: www.standrewlu.org and click on “Job Transition.” Phone: (952) 937-2776 SAVE THE DATE! Saturday, March 21st 9AM - 3PM Exhibitor spots are still available—call the Chamber at (952) 944-2830. Business@Breakfast Our very popular weekly networking group, Business@Breakfast has seen huge numbers the past few months. ALL members are welcome to join this hourlong meeting that takes place every Wednesday from 7:30 - 8:30 AM at The Colony in Eden Prairie (except 2/25). At B@B each attendee is given the opportunity to share a one minute commercial about their business. We then hear from a weekly featured business for a 10 minute presentation. Bring plenty of business cards & be ready for some great networking! “I've met and come to know many professional people at Business@Breakfast that I would've never otherwise been exposed to. By seeing them regularly I've gotten comfortable enough with them to refer my clients when appropriate and, they've done the same with me. What a great venue to do networking and still get to the office before 9 AM!” Zane Birky, Edward Jones Investments The cost to attend B@B is $10 for Chamber Members & their guests or $15 for Non-Members. This cost includes breakfast from D.Brian’s Deli & Catering. RSVPs are required for every B@B. Please visit us online at www.epchamber.org to RSVP or call us at (952) 944-2830. Walk-ins will be billed an additional $5 so get signed up today! Please note the Feb. 25th B@B is replaced by Speed Networking BINGO. Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce • 11455 Viking Dr. #270, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Ph: 952-944-2830 • Fax: 952-944-0229 • Website: www.epchamber.org 7 W OMEN’ S NETWORKING 2nd Annual Women’s Network Get pam pered b y. . Aurora Jeweler . s GiVan’s Salon Party B ag Leather s to Go Ren Favorab ditions le Treat s Valentine Vixens Thursday, February 12th 11:00 - 1:00 at Brunswick Zone s arry item C & h s a C … vailable a e b l il w and r friends u o y g in Br this urselves o y il o p s e’s Day! Valentin 12200 Singletree Lane, Eden Prairie $20/Members & their guests $35/Non-Members Lunch will be served by the fabulous Chef at Brunswick. Please RSVP by 2PM on Feb. 11th. Sign-up online at epchamber.org or call us at (952) 944-2830. 2009 Women’s Network 6 Month Calendar! Thursday, January 15th “Altar Boyz” at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres Great food, great fun and great friends turned out at this event! (see picture on this page) Sponsored by Deb Claus, Bloomington Carpet One Celebrate Non-Profit Organizations on Thursday, April 9th Presentation by: Tani Austin, Starkey Hearing Foundation Location: Hilton Garden Inn Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Cost $20/Members & Guests $35/Non-Members Above: The ladies (and men!) who attended this year’s Chanhassen Dinner Theatres Event posed with the cast of “Altar Boyz”! Thursday, February 12th Valentine Vixens at Brunswick Zone 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Pampering provided by: Aurora Jewelers GiVan’s Salon Party Bags to Go Leather Renditions Favorable Treats Thursday, March 12th “Women in Business” Presenter is TBA Location: Oak Ridge Hotel in Chaska Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Cost $20/Members & Guests $35/Non-Members MORE INFO TO COME SOON! 8 Thursday, May 14th High Tea At the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Sponsored by: Cindy Daniels, Inspiring Insight Thursday, June 11th 2nd Annual BayView Boat Cruise! 4:00 - 7:00 PM Take off from BayView Event Center in Excelsior and sail the beautiful Lake Minnetonka Above/Right: Participants from last year’s Valentine Vixen event enjoy their free pampering! Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce • 11455 Viking Dr. #270, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Ph: 952-944-2830 • Fax: 952-944-0229 • Website: www.epchamber.org MEMBER R ECOGNITION 2 009 ANNUAL & G ENERAL M EMBERSHIP L UNCHEON S PONSORS TO D ATE The Chamber is excited to have such a great lineup of Annual & Luncheon Sponsors already this year. For information on sponsorships, please contact us at (952) 944-2830. MAIN $17,000 TDS Metrocom SILVER $4,100 Thomsen Reuters BRONZE $2,100 Right: Beacon Bank President, David Krause and Beacon employee Katie McGinn were on hand at the December Membership Luncheon as one of our main sponsors. Left: A few of our Emerging Leaders Members at their holiday party at Brunswick Zone! Beacon Bank Zane Birky, Edward Jones Investments Xcel Energy LUNCHEON $500 Hennepin County Service Centers Division MEET OUR NEWEST MEMBERS! Chevy offers more models than anyone with an EPA est. 30 MPG or better. EmbroidMe 16368 Wagner Way Eden Prairie, MN 55344 (952) 906-2894 Jessica Rosenthal PROMOTION PRODUCTS Eric R. Nelson, CPA MBT 7336 Moonlight Lane Eden Prairie, MN 55346 (952) 934-2296 ACCOUNTANTS & TAX PREPARATION Allan Giese 952-947-5470 Special Perks for Chamber Members - Call Allan for Details! Suburban Chevrolet 12475 Plaza Drive - Eden Prairie, MN 55344 www.suburbanchev.com Jason’s Deli Opening Soon! 11995 Singletree Lane #120 Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Chris Peterson RESTAURANTS/DELIS Mika Therapy 11985 Technology Drive Eden Prairie, MN 55344 (952) 288-5328 Mike Gates HEALTH & WELLNESS Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce • 11455 Viking Dr. #270, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Ph: 952-944-2830 • Fax: 952-944-0229 • Website: www.epchamber.org REV Solutions, Inc. 10400 Viking Blvd. Eden Prairie, MN 55344 (952) 746-6005 Chad Simich CONSULTANTS/ BUSINESS CONSULTING Sovereign Wealth Solutions, Inc. 574 Prairie Center Dr. Eden Prairie, MN 55346 (612) 251-3405 Mathew Coyle (612) 251-3405 The Park at City West 6426 City West Parkway Eden Prairie, MN 55344 (952) 922-1000 Jhamel Wallace APARTMENTS/ TOWNHOMES 9 F EBRUARY 2 009 C ALENDAR Mark your calendar now for the upcoming events. For more detailed event information or to RSVP (including Member and non-Member prices), please visit us online at www.epchamber.org or call us at (952) 944-2830. Monday 2 Tuesday Wednesday Thursday 3 4 5 4:30 - 5:30 PM 7:30 - 8:30 AM Ambassador Committee Meeting at Timber Lodge Business@Breakfast at The Colony 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Brown Bag Lunch at the Chamber Office (for small businesses) Friday 6 7:30 - 9:00 HR Roundtable at GE Fleet Services 4:00 - 5:00 PM Membership Growth Committee at the Chamber Office 4:30 - 6:00 PM AFTER HOURS at Q’doba Mexican Grill 9 10 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Card Check Seminar at Bearpath Golf & Country Club 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM 7:30 - 8:30 AM NOONTIME Business@Breakfast at The Colony NETWORKING at Higher Power Training, Inc. 16 11 17 DUE: Print Ads and press releases for the March Newsletter 23 7:30 - 9:00 AM 7:30 - 8:30 AM Government Committee Business@Breakfast at The Colony 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Emerging Leaders at Rasmussen College 24 DUE: Inserts for the March Newsletter 18 12 13 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Women’s Networking—Valentine Vixens at Brunswick Zone 19 20 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM 7:30 - 8:30 AM General Membership Luncheon— Chamber 101 at the Annual Meeting at Grace Church Chamber Office Sponsored by: Zane Birky, Edward Jones Investments 25 26 27 7:30 - 9:00 AM Speed Networking BINGO at Sofitel 7:30 - 9:00 AM Business Development Committee 3:30 - 4:30 PM Education Committee PLEASE REGISTER FOR ALL EVENTS BY 2:00 PM THE DAY PRIOR TO THE EVENT!!!!! Make the most of your Chamber Dollar… Try out the Member Rewards Program! What are Member Rewards? Well, Member Rewards are a benefit available to ALL Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce Members! Not only do you receive automatic discounts at local Chamber stores & offices, but you also have the chance to participate in low-cost advertising that goes out to over 1,000 local business representatives! All opportunities, from e-blasts to mailing labels and March Newsletter Member Rewards Deadlines: newsletter inserts are described and priced Print Ads—Monday, February 16th by 3PM Press Releases—Monday, February 16th by 3PM on our website, www.epchamber.org. Inserts—Monday, February 23rd by Noon What are you waiting for? E-BLASTS—One week prior to your blast date Call the Chamber today at 952.944.2830! 10 Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce • 11455 Viking Dr. #270, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Ph: 952-944-2830 • Fax: 952-944-0229 • Website: www.epchamber.org M EMBER R EWARDS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE BARTON C. GERNANDER NAMED PARTNER AT HELLMUTH & JOHNSON PLLC MINNEAPOLIS, MN – (JANUARY 15, 2006) – The Eden Prairie law firm of Hellmuth & Johnson, PLLC is pleased to announce that the Board of Governors has named Barton C. Gernander a partner. A member of the firm's Litigation and Employment Law Practice Groups, Bart primarily represents clients in banking, construction, real estate, entertainment, and others involved in standard and complex litigation in both state and federal courts. He serves on the Minnesota State Bar Association Court Rules and Administration Committee, the Hennepin County Bar Association's Fourth District Ethics Committee, and is also a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association ad hoc Committee on Pretrial Litigation Forms. In 2006, he was named to the Minnesota Law & Politics "Rising Star" list, representing the top 2.5% of young attorneys in the state. Bart obtained his J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School and earned a B.A. in Philosophy, graduating with Honors from the University of Pennsylvania. "Bart has demonstrated legal talent and devoted client service," says Chad A. Johnson, Managing Partner. "We are delighted to recognize his contributions and look forward to his continued success in serving the clients of this firm." About Hellmuth & Johnson, PLLC The Hellmuth & Johnson team is committed to achieving our clients' objectives while consistently exceeding their expectations in each and every aspect of the services we provide. We deliver sophisticated counsel and legal services to all our clients, who consistently rely on our experience, creativity and practicality. The combination of our passion for excellence, and the inherent flexibility and efficiency of our expanding practice, makes us a contemporary and cost-effective alternative to the traditional "downtown" law firm model. Hellmuth & Johnson is located in Eden Prairie, MN. For more information, visit www.hjlawfirm.com or call (952) 941-4005. Access Insurance Agency, LLC 15756 Venture Lane Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Call today! 952-881-3232 Receive a $25 gift card & a chance to win a 32” HDTV Contact Access Insurance Agency, LLC for a personal or business quote* this year and receive a $25 gift card and a chance to win one of two new 32” HDTV’s. We are rewarding you because we are confident in our ability to find you the proper protection you need at the very best price! Please call us at 952-881-3232 or visit www.accessinsuranceagency.com for complete details.* EP Chamber Members & their employees receive a 55-12% group discount Quality accounting and tax services for small businesses and individuals. Eric R. Nelson, CPA MBT Passion Knowledge Experience Call now for your free initial consultation E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.erncpa.com (612) 296-8563 ---------------------- THE ELEVENTH ANNUAL SUBWAY® BEDRACE FOR BRIDGING, presented by Cities 97 will take off at Buck Hill Saturday, March 7, 2009. Teams of four are invited to race down the tubing hill atop queen-sized mattresses. One hundred percent of registration fees and fundraising efforts benefit Bridging. Cost per team: $120—Register your team in advance at www.subwaybedrace.org. Day of race registration is $170 per team. Must be 18-years-old or older to participate in the bedrace. All racers are guaranteed a minimum of two races down the hill. For more information visit the event website or call 952.278.3112. Come for the race, stay for the Cities 97 Post-Race Concert. Prizes will be awarded for the highest pledges in Bucks for Bridging, the Cities 97 Costume Contest and of course, the SUBWAY® BEDRACE FOR BRIDGING. Take the free shuttle from the southeast parking lot at Burnsville Center to Buck Hill. Shuttle service begins at 4:30pm and runs throughout the evening. Visit www.subwaybedrace.org for maps and directions. This event is made possible by the generosity of sponsors including: SUBWAY® Restaurants, CITIES 97, KARE 11 TV, and Buck Hill Ski Area, Northwestern Mutual Financial, The Columns Resource Group, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Rasmussen College, Lowry Hill, Donaldson Company, Sam’s Club. Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce • 11455 Viking Dr. #270, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Ph: 952-944-2830 • Fax: 952-944-0229 • Website: www.epchamber.org 11