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Jan
Meet Our Award Winners Celebrated at the 117th Annual Meeting
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Editorials, Event News, Marketing
Celebrating 117 Years and Honoring Business of the Year, Forrest Glewwe Visions of Excellence, Rising Star & Employer of People with Disabilities Awards
Inver Grove Heights/South St. Paul – The River Heights Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 117th Annual Meeting on Thursday, January 9th at the InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront.
At this year’s meeting, the River Heights Chamber of Commerce awarded Heidi Satre of Neighbors Inc. the 2019 Rising Star award for her volunteerism with the Chamber’s Ambassador Committee and her many other contributions to the community. Vance Boelter of the Dakota-Scott Workforce Investment Board presented in partnership with his organization, the Employer of the Year for People with Disabilities Award, to Town Square Television for employing individuals with disabilities through Proact to clean their studios for over two decades.
Adam Bengtson, of Endorse Communications, was introduced as the 2020 Chairman of the Board and commented, “Those who know me well might describe me as a runaway optimist. But I believe that’s for good reason. The amazing advancements in the ways we live, conduct business and drive change are accelerating every day. In a matter of just two or three generations, the landscape of technology around us has completely transformed nearly every facet of our lives. I’m incredibly excited that the Chamber is leading the way in adopting this way of thinking.
Of course, these changes and improvements don’t happen in a vacuum. It takes ideas and energy from stakeholders from all around our community – that especially includes business and civic leaders in the River Heights Chamber of Commerce.”
Chairman Bengtson presented the River Heights Chamber 2020 Business of the Year to Drkula’s 32 of Inver Grove Heights, and later presented the 2019 Forrest Glewwe Visions of Excellence Award in memory of Carol Swenson to her family. To watch their individual award videos, check out the Chamber’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/riverheightschamber.
The audience also heard an inspiring keynote from Ian Leonard, Chief Meteorologist, FOX 9.
“What have you done for someone else today?” A question everyone can ask themselves, their staff, and their family – “live your passion with a purpose!”
Special thanks to the Annual Meeting event sponsors Waterous Company and Town Square Television, major sponsors CHS Inc, and Xcel Energy, and contributing sponsors Flint Hills Resources, Inver Grove Heights Convention & Visitors Bureau and Mahoney, Ulbrich, Christiansen and Russ, P.A.
Jan
River Heights Chamber 2019 Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Editorials, Event News
Celebrating 116 Years and Honoring Business of the Year, Forrest Glewwe Visions of Excellence and Volunteer of the Year
Inver Grove Heights/South Saint Paul (January 11, 2019) – The River Heights Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 116th Annual Meeting on Thursday, January 10th at Southview Country Club. “The Annual Meeting for River Heights Chamber and Progress Plus featured transition, recognition and inspiration,” commented 2019 Chairman of the Board, Jake Sedlacek.
Brenda Dietrich, 2018 Chair of the Board, highlighted accomplishments of the past year and reflected on her gratitude for the River Heights Chamber of Commerce and the leadership opportunities and tools she was able to learn and take away from her year as Chair, and into her new role as IGH City Councilmember. Brenda also welcomed the Chamber’s 2019 Chairman of the Board, Jake Sedlacek of Xcel Energy. When Jake began, he noted, “I love reflecting upon the differences in our businesses – a family-owned, local business and a fortune 500 utility, and yet we both see value in being a part of the River Heights Chamber of Commerce.” Jake added, “As a community relations manager, I originally engaged in Chamber activities as a means to get to know key businesses, non-profits and government leaders. I’ve stuck around, and become more engaged because this organization lives its mission: To aggressively promote the interests of the business community through advocacy, partnerships, member benefits and networking.” Chairman Sedlacek also shared the Board’s initiatives for 2019, talked about working together to make connections and gave a call to action to all the membership – “take advantage of Chamber activities.”
Chairman Jake Sedlacek presented the 2019 Business of the Year award to a company with over 20 employees who has made an impact on the River Heights Chamber and its business community, a positive impact on its employees and customers, and the environment – Republic Services! Jennifer Gale, president of River Heights Chamber and Progress Plus noted, “Republic Services is a good steward to their employees, the community and to the earth, and the River Heights Chamber is proud to honor them as our Business of the Year.”
Dave Langer (of Langer Real Estate Services) was selected and honored with the Chamber’s 2018 Forrest Glewwe Visions of Excellence Award. Dave truly exceeds in all criteria for this award – a commitment to the betterment of life, business, community and entrepreneurship for the River Heights region! “Dave Langer is a pillar in the East Metro community and it’s an honor to recognize his many accomplishments personally and professionally,” added Gale.
Chair Deitrich was excited to surprise a special individual who has played an important role as a volunteer in the organization. Since 1995, the River Heights Chamber of Commerce has presented a Rising Star Award to a volunteer who has accelerated in their first few years as a Chamber volunteer by displaying leadership, enthusiasm and passion for the Chamber’s mission. “This year, not only is this person a rising star, but she is our Volunteer of the Year – she has gone above and beyond the call of her membership. I’m proud to present the 2018 Rising Star and Volunteer of the Year award to Michele Hein of Tandem Printing,“ announced Deitrich.
For more details on Republic Services or Dave Langer, make sure to watch their award videos on the River Heights Chamber of Commerce’s Facebook page and YouTube channel at YouTube.com/riverheightschamber! Check out all the photos from the event here.
Special thanks to the Annual Meeting event sponsors Flint Hills Resources, Town Square Television, Waterous Company and Xcel Energy, as well as our contributing sponsor, CHS, Inc., keynote speaker Joe Nayquonabe with Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures and all of the members who shared in the special night.
Jan
River Heights Chamber Announces Award Winners
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Business Ideas, Editorials, Event News, Marketing
Inver Grove Heights/South St. Paul – The River Heights Chamber of Commerce will be celebrating its 115th Annual Meeting on Thursday, February 15, 2018, starting at 11:30 a.m. at Mendakota Country Club in Mendota Heights. The luncheon will honor our leaders of 2017, welcome our new Chairman for 2018, and recognize the Chamber’s 2018 Business of the Year, 2017 Forrest Glewwe Visions of Excellence, 2017 Rising Star and 2017 Ambassador of the Year.
Brenda Dietrich, 2018 Chair of the Board, will be honoring the Chamber’s outgoing 2017 Chairman, Jon Erickson, and taking us into our year of celebrating a “115-year solid foundation.” When asked about what she’s excited about being the Chair of the Chamber this year, Brenda shared, “Having the opportunity to get to know more businesses in the Chamber [in more detail], what makes them tick, what are some challenges they face and how the Chamber can help out, that’s what I’m excited to do. Also, with it being the 115th Anniversary this year, I think it’s a great time to reflect on the benefits of the Chamber. To have a renewed push towards the value of membership and how the Chamber has evolved over the last century to advocate for commerce. I am excited, energetic and committed to working with our members to achieve the goals set before us.”
The River Heights Chamber of Commerce is proudly announcing that Deerwood Bank of Mendota Heights will receive the River Heights Chamber’s 2018 Business of the Year Award on February 15th. Deerwood Bank was established in 1910 in Deerwood, Minnesota. It served the lumber and resort community for 68 years before adding a second branch in nearby Garrison in 1978. In 2015, Deerwood Bank acquired the former American Bank of St. Paul, effectively doubling the size of the Bank and adding locations in the Twin Cities Metro Area. “At Deerwood Bank, we have helped businesses grow and prosper for over 100 years by providing superior services to our customers and communities we serve. Our goal is to help our customers reach their goals. Our business philosophies are based on the belief that, to be a successful community bank, we must be committed to our communities and have a unique ability to know and serve our markets.” stated Ross Dahlin, Assistant Vice President of Business Banking at Deerwood Bank.
The Chamber is also honored to announce, Rick Hansen as its 2017 Forrest Glewwe Visions of Excellence Award recipient. Rick truly exceeds in all criteria for this award, which encompass a commitment to the betterment of life, business, community and entrepreneurship for the River Heights region. He has spent much of his life being a champion of the environment. Graduating from the Upper Iowa University and graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 1985. He continued his education and received a Master of Science degree in Soil Management from Iowa State University. In 2004, Rick resigned his positions with MDA and SWCD when he was elected to the Minnesota Legislature where he serves as the Minnesota State Representative for District 52A representing South St Paul, West St. Paul, Mendota Heights, Mendota and Lilydale. Rick is committed to his community, state and family and committed to doing what is right. During his time at the legislature, he has authored and championed a variety of bills, and in our business community Rick has been actively involved in the Chamber’s South St. Paul Local Issues committee and instrumental in many community projects.
The Rising Star will also be awarded at the Annual Meeting on February 15. This award is given to a volunteer who has accelerated in their first few years as a Chamber volunteer by displaying leadership, enthusiasm and passion for the Chamber’s mission. The Ambassador of the Year Award, that is given to an individual Chamber Ambassador who earns the most points throughout the year for their volunteerism within the Chamber, will be announced then too, so stay tuned!
Special thanks to our current event sponsors Waterous Company and Town Square Television, as well as major sponsor Deerwood Bank. To attend the Annual Meeting or see more details as they arise for the Feb. 15th event, please visit the event page at www.riverheights.com/annualmeeting.
For more details about the Chamber’s award winners, please watch their videos to come to the River Heights Chamber of Commerce’s YouTube channel at YouTube.com/riverheightschamber.
Jan
Register Now for the River Heights Chamber’s 115th Annual Meeting
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Business Ideas, Editorials, Event News, Marketing
Register Today!
Jun
Statewide Policy Tour Makes First Stop in South St. Paul to Deliver 2017 Legislative Wrap-Up
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Advocacy & Public Policy, Business Ideas, Editorials
Inver Grove Heights/South St. Paul (June 2017) – As a member of the Minnesota Chamber Federation, the River Heights Chamber of Commerce was proud to have long-time member, Waterous Company, host the first stop on the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce’s 2017 Statewide Policy Tour on May 31st in South St. Paul.
A little history about our host: Waterous has been making quality, American-Made firefighting related products since 1886. Waterous made complete apparatus including horse-drawn, steam-driven hose carts until 1929 when the focus changed to manufacture fire pumps. NOW – Waterous still builds revolutionary fire suppression systems and holds true to the philosophy “Cast, Machine, Assemble and Test our pumps in America.” You can count on Waterous to provide you with the utmost in quality products and customer service.
Statewide Policy Tour: The tour included 25 business representatives from Inver Grove Heights, South St. Paul, Eagan, Bloomington, St. Paul and surrounding communities who got to hear from Senior Vice President of Advocacy, Director of Environmental Policy and Director of Education & Workforce Development from the Minnesota Chamber, first-hand (days after the special session concluded), on results of the Federation’s legislative priorities that have weighed on businesses and families in our communities over the past year and prior.
The Minnesota Chamber lobbying team noted, “The Minnesota Chamber clearly delivered on your priorities this year. All the top priorities were signed into law except for one – the Uniform State Labor Standards Act – and that passed both the House and Senate, only to be vetoed by Governor Dayton. Our legislative victories will better position your company, and all of Minnesota, to be ready for the future – ready for change and ready to grow.” They added, “The Legislature went into special session to avoid a government shutdown. Governor Dayton signed all the budget bills and tax bills, but more negotiations may be coming. He line-item vetoed the House and Senate legislative budgets in an attempt to force leadership back to the table to undo provisions he already signed into law: the repeal of the automatic inflator on the statewide business property tax levy and cigarette taxes; the increase in the estate tax threshold; teacher licensing reforms; and rulemaking prohibitions on drivers’ licenses for undocumented immigrants. His vetoes are headed for a court challenge.”
The conclusion of this legislative session highlighted significant progress on a range of business needs stated below. Our successes are at the foundation of your success.
- BUSINESS TAX RELIEF: We delivered biggest tax relief for all Minnesotans since 2001
- TRANSPORTATION: We delivered largest investment in roads and bridges since 2008 – without increase in taxes or fees
- HEALTH CARE: We delivered more options for small businesses to provide employee coverage
- LAWSUIT REFORM: We delivered protection for businesses targeted with abusive lawsuits
- ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS: We delivered reasonable and responsible improvements to state environmental review and permitting
- EDUCATION/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT: We delivered on workforce needs including K-12 reforms, early learning, housing and childcare funding
- LABOR/MANAGEMENT: We preserved the effectiveness of the Workers’ Compensation Advisory Council process
- ENERGY AND TELECOM: We delivered savings on energy costs and improved communications infrastructure
UNIFORM LABOR STANDARDS
“Our biggest disappointment was the Governor’s veto of the Uniform State Labor Standards Act that would have explicitly prevented local governments from mandating local wage and benefit packages on private employers. We adamantly oppose government interference – at any level – in private-sector employee benefits, especially a local patchwork of mandates,” added the Minnesota Chamber.
Our lawsuit continues against the city of Minneapolis. The Minneapolis and St. Paul paid sick and safe time ordinances are scheduled to go into effect July 1. The Hennepin County District Court has ruled that Minneapolis may not enforce its ordinance against “any employer resident outside the geographic boundaries of the city of Minneapolis” until there’s a decision from the Minnesota Court of Appeals. As a result, St. Paul is imposing its ordinance only on those businesses with a physical location within its boundaries. Our lawsuit is scheduled for a July 11 hearing before the Minnesota Court of Appeals, which then must issue a decision within 90 days.
Members of the business community shared the following items they would like to see the Minnesota Chamber Federation continue to work on and advocate for in the 2018 Legislative Session: create uniform labor standards, create more health care cost solutions for small businesses and individual plans, secure social security tax relief and education reform for ensuring effective teachers and funding for early childhood education.
For more detailed information on each priority’s results, please visit the River Heights Chamber’s website here.
About River Heights Chamber of Commerce
The River Heights Chamber of Commerce is a business organization who aggressively promotes the interests of the business communities of Inver Grove Heights and South St. Paul. The organization is volunteer driven and strives to attract and retain businesses to keep the business community thriving. The River Heights Chamber continues to provide value-added opportunities for all members. Visit our website www.riverheights.com to learn more!
Stay Connected with the River Heights Chamber on our social media sites Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!
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Mar
Hardline Concrete & Masonry Honored with 2017 Small Business of the Year Award 28th Anniversary of Small Business Award in Local Business Community
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Business Ideas, Editorials, Event News, Marketing, Social Media
March 30, 2017
Inver Grove Heights/South Saint Paul – The River Heights Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Hardline Concrete & Masonry of Inver Grove Heights will receive the River Heights Chamber of Commerce’s 2017 Small Business of the Year Award! Jon and Brenda Dietrich, owners, will be accepting the award at the River Heights Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Small Business Award Luncheon & Trade Show on Thursday, April 13, 2017 from 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at enVision Hotel & Conference Center in South St. Paul.
The Small Business of the Year Award acknowledges an organization that has been in business for five years or more, has 20 or fewer employees, has at least two years of membership in the River Heights Chamber, and encompasses a business that has a commitment to the community through its involvement and assistance to community organizations, to its employees, suppliers and customer relationships, in addition to a commitment to excellence in service, business ethics, friendliness and business operations. Chamber member businesses nominated local small businesses and the Chamber’s Recognition Committee selected the award recipient from many deserving applicants. This year’s recipient, Hardline Concrete & Masonry, excels in all these areas and more. When Hardline was asked how they feel about receiving this award, Brenda replied, “We feel truly honored to be recognized for the River Heights Chamber’s Small Business of the Year Award because being recognized by a group of your peers is a good yardstick to be measured by. There are so many deserving businesses and we are very humbled to be selected.”
Hardline Concrete & Masonry started as a sole proprietor in 2005, doing mainly commercial and industrial work. When incorporating in 2009, they shifted business to completing more residential and decorative work. While they are grateful for fundamental commercial work, they feel their true passion lies with being able to help customers create their artistic vision for their yard and home. Jon and Brenda pride themselves in doing the job correctly the first time and being primarily a referral-based business. They form relationships with their customers and treat every job as if it was their own when they leave their Hardline logo stamped in the concrete. When it comes to employee relationships, they realize that being a seasonal employer can be challenging in employee retention. In the past few years, Hardline has implemented some policies and benefits to let their employees know that they care for them, beyond the scope of a work day. They faced adversity during the recession of 2009 but because of Hardline’s presence in the community they could continue to work. Hardline Concrete & Masonry is involved in the community by supporting the local Inver Grove Heights Days, Simley wrestling and football and volunteering at their local church. Jon & Brenda strive to give competitive bids for local projects and have been privileged to work at the Inver Grove Community Center, Simley High School and various concrete projects for the City of Inver Grove Heights. Hardline Concrete & Masonry believes in small businesses succeeding and have recommended five other sole proprietors, LLC’s and corporations to join the River Heights Chamber of Commerce for continued success. Brenda is very active in the River Heights Chamber of Commerce and has served 1 year as an ambassador chair-elect, 1.5 years as an ambassador chair, has been a Board member since 2015 (and is currently Chair-Elect for 2017), served as a delegate for MN at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Summit 2015, received the River Heights Chamber Marshall award during the 2016 membership drive and was a member of the Southmetro Business PAC in 2016. The River Heights Chamber is proud to have Hardline Concrete & Masonry as a dedicated member of the business community!
This year will be the 28th Anniversary of the River Heights Chamber celebrating this special award with the business community and is sponsored in-part by Town Square Television, Waterous Company and Antonsen Construction. Community businesses will exhibit in the trade show at 11 a.m. followed by a luncheon, award ceremony and keynote speaker, Jill Renslow SVP Business Development and Marketing with Mall of America.
For more details about attending the Small Business Award Luncheon & Trade Show, visit www.riverheights.com, and to learn more about the Chamber’s award winner, Hardline Concrete & Masonry, please watch their video on the River Heights Chamber of Commerce’s YouTube channel at YouTube.com/riverheightschamber following the event on April 13th.
About River Heights Chamber of Commerce
The River Heights Chamber of Commerce is a business organization who aggressively promotes the interests of the business communities of Inver Grove Heights and South St. Paul. The organization is volunteer driven and strives to attract and retain businesses to keep the business community thriving. The River Heights Chamber continues to provide value-added opportunities for all members. Visit our website www.riverheights.com to learn more!
Stay Connected with the River Heights Chamber on our social media sites!
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Mar
River Heights Chamber Announces Small Business of the Year
Nicole Bengtson 0 comments Business Ideas, Event News, Marketing
March 29, 2016
Contact: Nicole Bengtson FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Telephone: 651.451.2266 ext. 1033
Email: Nicole@riverheights.com
MEDIA RELEASE
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham to receive 2016 Small Business of the Year Award from River Heights Chamber of Commerce
27th Anniversary of Small Business Award in Local Business Community
Inver Grove Heights/South Saint Paul – The River Heights Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham will receive the River Heights Chamber of Commerce’s 2016 Small Business of the Year Award! Don Heikkila, General Manager, will humbly accept the award at the River Heights Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Small Business Award Luncheon & Trade Show on Thursday, April 14, 2016 at Southview Country Club in West St. Paul.
The River Heights Chamber of Commerce invites you to join us in celebrating Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham and to salute small business at the annual event on April 14th. This year marks the 27th Anniversary of the River Heights Chamber celebrating this award with the business community and is sponsored in-part by Town Square Television, Waterous Company, Hometown Meats (2015 Small Business of the Year) and Antonsen Construction. The event also consists of a business Trade Show supported by Wakota Federal Credit Union and FASTSIGNS of Inver Grove Heights. Member businesses nominated local small businesses and the Chamber’s Recognition Committee selected the award recipient from many deserving applicants.
The Small Business of the Year Award acknowledges an organization that has been in business for five years or more, has 20 or fewer employees, has at least two years of membership in the River Heights Chamber, and encompasses a business that has a commitment to the community through its involvement and assistance to community organizations, to its employees, suppliers and customer relationships, in addition to a commitment to excellence in service, business ethics, friendliness and business operations.
Keynote speaker, Dina Simon, from Simon Says Lead and Simon Says Give, is confirmed to share her secret sauce to being unstoppable in achieving what you want in your business and encourage you to find your own unstoppableness along the way. Dina is a professional speaker, author and CEO of Simon Says Lead and will share with us her personal journey of moving from managing a $500 million P&L to being the founder of two start-up operations.
RSVP to attend the luncheon and tradeshow ($35/pp) at www.riverheights.com/smallbusiness and plan to exhibit at the trade show by signing up at www.riverheights.com/tradeshow by April 7th!
For more information on this award recipient, please contact the River Heights Chamber of Commerce at 651.451.2266 or visit us online at www.riverheights.com to see their award video following the event.
About River Heights Chamber of Commerce
The River Heights Chamber of Commerce is a business organization who aggressively promotes the interests of the business communities of Inver Grove Heights and South St. Paul. The organization is volunteer driven and strives to attract and retain businesses to keep the business community thriving. The River Heights Chamber continues to provide value-added opportunities for all members. Visit our website www.riverheights.com to learn more!
Stay Connected with the River Heights Chamber on our social media sites – Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn!
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