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JULY/AUGUST 2016
6 18
CONTENTS GROW | NETWORK | PROFIT
President’s Letter 8 Business Calendar
22
Editor’s Note
Network Central
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C E L E B R AT I N G 1 6 Y E A R S I N B U S I N E S S
PROFIT
40 Cover Story THE PERSONAL TOUCH Family owned and proud of it, CWMF is reaping the rewards of putting customers first.
49 Feature WOMEN MEAN BUSINESS Who can argue with a whopping trillion+ in receipts?
54 Special Focus BABY BOOM Marketing to aging consumers offers growth opportunities for local businesses.
40
Special Sections 52 WOMEN IN
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
54
SENIOR HEALTH AND LIVING
10 UPFRONT Valuable and important information designed to guide and educate
24 BUSINESS TOOLS Marketplace intelligence and useful tips on how to continue to grow your business
58 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Gary Webber, Think Tourism USA
Only Online // www.BusinessCentralMagazine.com
© Copyright 2016 Business Central, LLC
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by the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce,
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OUR BEST
FOR YOU IS A
NATIONAL
BEST Truven Health Analytics recognized CentraCare’s St. Cloud Hospital as one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals—our 10th appearance on this prestigious list. No Minnesota hospital has received this honor more times. Each day, CentraCare employees and physicians offer their best to every patient. We are privileged to do so on behalf of this great community.
centracare.com
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President’s Letter Main Phone 320-251-2940
Heads in Beds
O
ur move last year provided Chamber members with a larger, high-tech meeting space and free, plentiful parking. Unifying our Chamber and Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) staff under one roof has been an especially good benefit for our organization, and perhaps one not immediately recognized. As I have worked more closely with CVB leader Julie Lunning and her strong team of salespeople, my appreciation of their passion for what they do has increased exponentially. I now realize that those who work in tourism and hospitality have ever abundant energy, optimism beyond compare, and smiles that make everyone feel welcome. Our CVB’s overriding goal is to put heads in beds. Every night a visitor spends in our hotels and motels adds an average $150 to the local economy. Part of the room tax comes back to the CVB to market and promote our community, bringing even more visitors here to spend more money. Our CVB staff members are frequently recognized as the best in their industry. It is no surprise that we are a favored destination for sporting events and tournaments. On all those Saturdays and Sundays that you can’t find a restaurant without a long wait? Thank our CVB staff for that. Chances are, the hotels are full and people are in line to spend their $150 because their kids are playing softball or racing BMX bikes or playing in a pickleball tournament. Recently, the CVB decided to bid on the granddaddy of all state sporting events: The 2017 Governor’s Fishing Opener. This unofficial Minnesota holiday brings hundreds of media to the selected site to monitor the governor’s success in snagging the coveted first walleye of the season, giving the destination a load of publicity. The bidding process was time consuming and no one expected us to be successful. We were anticipating a multi-year process where we would bid until that year when we would eventually be successful. Our CVB’s bid was unconventional. It did not include a lake. Instead it featured the Mighty Mississippi River with downtown St. Cloud as the stage. (The event has only been held on the river once.) On the day Julie peeked in my door and whispered, “It’s top secret, but we got the Fishing Opener!” I was not completely surprised. How could they NOT choose us and our fantastic CVB? Now the real work begins. If you would like to volunteer to help with the event, please contact Julie or me. Unless, of course, I’ve… Gone fishing.
Teresa Bohnen Publisher
PS: Like many other organizations we find ourselves saying good-bye to long-time employees. Jean Robbins recently “stopped working” at the CVB after 23 years with our organization. She planned and executed group tours and worked with our St. Cloud Area Greeters. We wish Jean well and hope to see her often.
Automated Reservation Line 320-656-3826 Program Hotline 320-656-3825 information@StCloudAreaChamber.com www.StCloudAreaChamber.com ST. CLOUD AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STAFF President Membership Sales Teresa Bohnen, ext. 104 Specialist Rhonda Dahlgren, Vice President ext. 134 Gail Ivers, ext. 109 Administrative Assistant Director of Kellie Libert, ext. 124 Administration Judy Zetterlund, Administrative Assistant ext. 106 Vicki Lenneman, ext. 122 Communications & Workforce Development Administrative Assistant Coordinator Shelly Imdieke, Whitney Bina, ext.130 ext. 100 Special Events Coordinator Sheri Wegner, ext. 131 CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU STAFF Main Phone 320-251-4170
Sales Manager Nikki Fisher, ext. 112
Executive Director Julie Lunning, ext. 111
Sales & Marketing Coordinator Rachel Granzow, ext. 128
Director of Convention Sales Lori Cates, ext. 113 Director of Sports & Special Events Dana Randt, ext. 110
2015-16 BOARD MEMBERS Jason Bernick, Bernick’s, Board Chair
Dolora Musech, Batteries Plus Bulbs
Dan Bittman, Sauk RapidsRice School District
Kris Nelson, Custom Accents, Inc., Past Board Chair
David Borgert, CentraCare Health
Bernie Omann, St. Cloud State University
Neil Franz, Franz Hultgren Evenson, Professional Association
Business Central Magazine // J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6
Mark Osendorf, Xcel Energy
Jim Gruenke, Mark J. Traut Wells, Inc.
Roger Schleper, Premier Real Estate Services, Board Vice Chair
Jason Hallonquist, AIS Planning
Melinda Vonderahe, Times Media
John Herges, Falcon National Bank
Dr. Bea Winkler, retired business owner
Dennis Host, Coborn’s, Inc.
Chriss Wohlleber, Courtyard by Marriott-St.Cloud
Diane Mendel, Playhouse Child Care 6
Administrative Assistant Carrie Zwack, ext. 100
inTELLIGENT CARE Are your eyes irritated, scratchy or have excess watering? You could have Dry Eye. We are passionate about improving our patients quality of life. Through specialized techniques we will help to properly diagnose your Dry Eye and offer customized treatment programs. Don’t let Dry Eye get in your way, get the relief you deserve, and make an appointment today.
Dr. Burt W. Dubow
Dr. Greg J. Friederichs
Dr. Bennett W. Nelson
Dr. Anna C. Malikowski
Stay connected.
insighteyecare.us
Waite Park 320-253-0365
Becker
763-264-5444
Paynesville 320-243-3566
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Editor’s Note
Cool Stuff
Publisher Teresa Bohnen Managing Editor Gail Ivers Associate Editor Dawn Zimmerman
Coolest Gardening Tool Ever (left) and the Fearsomely Cool Photo (above)
Cool Car I came home the other day to find an electric blue Corvette convertible parked in my driveway. No owner, no note, and unfortunately, no keys. I couldn’t help but chuckle at the thought of moving the Corvette into my garage and replacing it with my Nissan Altima. Or, even better, leaving my Nissan behind and taking the Corvette for a spin around the neighborhood. Unfortunately, no keys, no cruising.
Coolest Gardening Tool Ever In 2012, after listening to my husband justify the purchase yet again, I finally agreed that we should buy a Kawasaki Mule. This is a little side x side, 4-wheel drive utility vehicle, similar to the John Deere Gator or the Polaris Ranger. It would be perfect, I was assured, for hauling dirt and moving garden debris. Plus it would be fun. Turns out he was right.
Cool Raptors Rock On my way to work this spring, I came around a corner to find a large crow with a white breast feasting on left-over raccoon. I had never seen a crow with a white breast, so I stopped the car to watch. The crow lifted its head and became a bald eagle, whose white head had been bowed over its breast as it ate its breakfast. As I absorbed the fact that I was 10 feet from a bald eagle, the one sitting on the other side of the road that I had not noticed rose into the air right in front of me. Whoa! Powerful and striking… 8
Business Central Magazine // J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6
and frankly a little scary when they appear unexpectedly just feet away.
Fearsomely Cool Photo As we wandered through CWMF scouting a site for the cover photo for this issue of Business Central, photographer Joel Butkowski, Butkowski Digital Imaging, walked over to an asphalt dryer drum, took a look inside, and said, “This is it.” He was right. With the lights, the machine, and the teeth, Joel and I found ourselves looking into the “Doomsday Machine” from the original Star Trek.
Cool Stuff Regular readers of this column may remember that I am intrigued by heavy equipment – the bigger the better. CWMF manufactures equipment used by the asphalt industry. (See the story on page 40) It’s huge. In their enormous production facility they can work on only four pieces of equipment at a time. This particular piece of equipment mixes the ingredients – sand and asphalt cement – that become asphalt. It has big teeth in it and as you can see from the cover, we had the Micks stand inside, precariously balanced, while Joel took photos and I shouted encouragement. Tempting though it was to climb into the Doomsday Machine, I opted for a photo with the Coolest Gardening Tool Ever. Captain Kirk would be so disappointed. Until next issue,
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lori Athmann, Jovanovich, Kadlec & Athmann, PLLP. Whitney Bina, St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce Teresa Bohnen, St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce Heidi L. Everett, PhD, Watab Communications Brian Hart, Sandler Training Dr. Fred E. Hill, St. Cloud State University Gail Ivers, St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce Tracy Knofla, High Impact Training Kellie Libert, St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce Mary MacDonell Belisle, mary macdonell belisle–wordingforyou Pat Plamann, Schlenner Wenner & Co. Kelly Radi, Radi To Write Donniel Robinson, Robinson Writes Greg Vandal, Vox Liberi Dawn Zimmerman, The Write Advantage ADVERTISING Associate Publisher/Sales Wendy Hendricks, Hendricks Marketing Ad Traffic & Circulation Yola Hartmann, Hazel Tree Media ART Design & Production Yola Hartmann, Hazel Tree Media Cover Photo Joel Butkowski, BDI Photography ACCOUNTING Judy Zetterlund WEBSITE Vicki Lenneman
1411 West St. Germain Street, Suite 101, P.O. Box 487, St. Cloud, MN 56302-0487 Phone (320) 251-2940 Fax (320) 251-0081 www.BusinessCentralMagazine.com For advertising information contact Wendy Hendricks, (320)656-3808 Editorial suggestions can be made in writing to: Editor, Business Central, P.O. Box 487, St. Cloud, MN 56302-0487. Submission of materials does not guarantee publication. Unsolicited materials will not be returned unless accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope.
UPFRONT GROW | NETWORK | PROFIT
12 16
Getting Going
13
New at the Top
Your Voice in Government
18
14
People to Know
Business Calendar
20
The Trouble with Business
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NEWS & PEOPLE THAT MAKE UP THE CHAMBER NETWORK
BOOK REVIEW
Gaining Traction
NEWS REEL
Success starts with understanding who you are and who you want to be. Reviewd by Dr. Fred Hill
“Y
ou’ve read all about the historic gains women have made in the workforce. You know we’re primed to level the corporate playing field. Now…what does this mean for you? The answer is absolutely nothing if you don’t know how to earn the respect and credibility it takes to see real traction in your career. Good news. In Who Says It’s a Man’s World you’ll find the specific actions and answers you need to enter the executive suite….” —From Who Says It’s a Man’s World; The Girls’ Guide To Corporate Domination by Emily Bennington. This excellent book consists of 6 sections and 16 chapters. Section 6 is a Toolbox which includes the following tools: Tool 1: Career Plan Template. Tool 2: Six-Month Check-In Template. Tool 3: Personal Career Assessment. Tool 4: Leadership Readiness Assessment. Tool 5: 20 Things Every Career Woman Must Know. The toolbox alone seems worth the price of the entire book.
10
Who Says It’s a Man’s World; The Girls’ Guide To Corporate Domination by Emily Bennington, AMACOM, New York, 2013, ISBN 13: 9780-8144-3187-0
The section list contains straight forward categories. Sections: 1 Self-Awareness 2 Social Skills 3 Personal Effectiveness 4 Team Development 5 Leadership 6 Toolbox The author asks, and deals with, the million dollar question: What does it take for women to win at the highest levels of business? Judging by the miniscule number of women who have actually reached such levels, it sometimes feels like the answer is tucked away
Business Central Magazine // J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6
in a locked box under three feet of marble at an undisclosed location. Bennington knows that women make up half of the workforce and yet, the higher they go up the ladder, the more that number seems to drop. While writing her book (2012-2013), her research disclosed that women account for just four percent of Fortune 500 CEOs, six percent of top earners, and 16 percent of board directors and corporate officers. The most successful women Bennington interviewed all express a need for starting with self-awareness. Her book is designed to help women understand the kind of professional they want to be. Thus, a woman must be a magnificent woman first to have a magnificent career. Business is a game about people and it all starts with YOU. Dr. Fred E. Hill is an emeritus professor from St. Cloud State University.
CENTRACARE PROMOTES Jay Ophoven, RN, was named the new director of internal medicine and rheumatology at CentraCare Clinic – Health Plaza and River Campus. He joined CentraCare in 2010 as nursing supervisor and has over 20 years of experience in the health care field. Deb Hall, RN, FAHM, CNML, joined CentraCare Health Plaza as director for the Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine; Allergy & Asthma and Genetic clinics. She previously served as director of outpatient and outreach service for St. Cloud Hospital’s Women & Children’s Center. Stacy Peterlin, APRN, CNP, returned to the internal medicine department at CentraCare Clinic – River Campus after spending the last year working in the Coborn Cancer Center.
HUMPHREY JOINS ADVISORY COUNCIL Laurie Humphrey, co-owner, Granite Financial, LLC, was named to the 2016 Advisory Council of Securities America Inc., an independent brokerdealer with more than 2,000 independent advisors. The council creates an opportunity for advisors to provide feedback on the strategy, tactics and marketing messages of Securities America, Inc.
POINT OF VIEW
Business Central asks readers: What is the most successful
IN THE NEWS
method you use to connect to your customers?
“
I use the phone and send a follow-up email. Networking is also very helpful.” Mary Yager •
“
It’s a trio: person to person, phone calls, and mailings. Social media helps too.”
Holiday Inn & Suites
“
Chamber Connection – Mike always goes to the Friday morning meetings. Volunteering as a Top Hatter at events gets me out and about to meet with people.”
Gaslight Creative took home 13 awards at the 2016 American Advertising Awards Show in February. The annual awards competition, hosted by the American Advertising Federation (AAF) of Central Minnesota, celebrates excellence in advertising. Gaslight was recognized for its work for local clients including Mathew Hall Lumber, St. Cloud Area YMCA and Third Street Brewhouse.
Dee Rengel • Rengel Printing
“
Julie Forsberg • Forsberg Investments & Insurance
Social media is the new way, but good old fashion beating down the door helps me reach new customers.”
Bill Pennings • BankVista
A doer is just a dreamer with a better business plan. Our business banking experts know that every dream needs a plan of action. Find out how we can help your business prepare for what’s ahead.
Bremer.com 800-908-BANK (2265) Member FDIC. ©2016 Bremer Financial Corporation. All rights reserved.
J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6 //
www.businesscentralmagazine.com
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UpFront GETTING GOING
NEWS REEL PINECONE VISION CENTER PROMOTES PineCone Vision Center promoted Chrissy Henry to business office manager. She oversees office operations and analyzes changes and trends of the health and vision insurance industry. Henry holds a Paraoptometric Coding Certification (CPOC ) from the American Optometric Association. Angie Metteer, optometric assistant manager, PineCone Vision Center, earned the certified paraoptometric designation through the American Optometric Association.
WHEELOCK HONORED Barron’s magazine ranked Brad Wheelock, RBC Wealth Management, among the top one percent of wealth advisors in the nation for the eighth year in a row. The Barron’s study is produced independently by the Dow Jones Company and includes advisors from nationwide financial firms.
INITIATIVE FOUNDATION AWARDS GRANTS The Initiative Foundation awarded 82 grants totaling $569,652 in the first quarter of 2016. All grants support organizations and projects in the 14-county region of Central Minnesota. Additional grants totaling $212,602 were also awarded through hosted component funds. Recipients include The Anderson Center, Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation, St. Cloud Technical and Community College, Boys & Girls Club of Central Minnesota and St. Cloud State University.
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Outsiders
When it comes to strategic planning, investing in an outside facilitator may allow for greater participation and more creative outcomes. By Greg Vandal
T
he public sector organizations I serve are often governed by citizen boards. The questions these groups ask about consensusbased planning services are often different than those heard in the for-profit sector. Nonprofit boards sometimes wonder why they need to bear the expense of an outsider to lead a planning initiative. “Isn’t that what we pay our executive director or superintendent to do?” A good response includes several interrelated points. –––––– Key organizational leaders want to be active participants in a collaborative process. The role of a good facilitator is that of a neutral. The organizational leader who tries to maintain neutrality can find that s/he doesn’t have the opportunity for open and transparent input into whatever direction the group chooses to head. The leader can give up significant power by directing the process rather than engaging in the discussion. On the other hand, despite one’s best efforts at neutrality, there will be those who believe that the key leader has somehow manipulated the process to
achieve a predetermined outcome. Whatever plan might emerge could face skepticism as a result. –––––– Outside facilitators are not generally aware of, nor caught up in the power, politics, and personalities of a client organization. They can permit discussions to move forward without those often complicating elements influencing the course of deliberations. Independent facilitators can more easily empower individuals who might not otherwise have an opportunity for a voice and more safely quiet those who are accustomed to speaking the longest and loudest. –––––– One of the most positive outcomes of a consensusbased process is that alternatives that might not otherwise be revealed come to light. These often nontraditional solutions have the potential to significantly change the course of an organization. If internal leadership is leading the group in these discussions there can be hesitation on the part of both the internal leader and the group participants if the change is perceived to threaten the usual course of
action. Powerful alternatives can be left unexplored. And, when an internal leader facilitates the generation of high-risk solutions, those unfamiliar with the process or skeptical of the plan often attach the solutions to the leader rather than to the entire group. That leader can become personally and professionally vulnerable as a result. –––––– Finally, if the key leader is responsible for both facilitating the process and for communicating the results, claims of bias are more easily made. The natural (subconscious) tendency of a communicator is to filter forward the more personally intriguing elements and to emphasize the most acceptable points. If the outcome of the planning process is a recommendation for significant and potentially unpopular change, the tendency is often to “kill the messenger” in hopes of defeating the proposal. It is important to take the necessary steps to avoid the prospect that key leadership will become the target of dissent or the reason to object to otherwise sound consensus-based plans.
contributor Greg Vandal is the sole proprietor of Vox Liberi, a consulting business that delivers planning and project management services to clients in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. He can be reached at greg.vandal@voxliberi.com.
NEW AT THE TOP
DID YOU KNOW?
Jean Braun
Coborn Family Foundation donates $1 million
Executive Director of the Anderson Center; age 50. Previous employer: Rasmussen College What will you miss most about your previous position? The wonderfully talented and kind people of that organization. When did you start in your current position? January 2016 What are you looking forward to the most in your new position?
Sharing the amazing development experiences provided by the Anderson Center with those who are unfamiliar with our mission. Where did you grow up? Columbia Heights, MN What are your hobbies? Travel, photography, and spending time with friends and family
Fun fact: My husband and I adopted our now 14 year old daughter from Bulgaria when she was 2 ½.
CentraCare Health received a $1 million donation from the Coborn Family Foundation to establish a survivorship center at CentraCare Health Plaza, adjacent to the current Coborn Cancer Center. Wellness and integrative therapies including yoga, acupuncture, massage and other therapeutic options are examples of service offerings provided in the new survivorship center.
I DW E S T R E GION C H O O S E A L E AMD E R I N T H E I N D U S T RY. Multi Year INC 5000 Award Winner
39 Awards Won To Date
158.74% 5 Year Growth
Roofing | Sheet Metal | 24/Service | Maintenance | Inspections | Waterproofing | Composite Panels
.57 Safety Mod Rating
(320) 252-1608
(612) 333-1481
In Business Since 1976
horizonroof inginc.com J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6 //
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UpFront PEOPLE TO KNOW
Liz Kellner
Kristen Berreau
CENTRACARE RECEIVES RECOGNITION
Odor Eliminators LLC ___________
American Door Works ___________
CentraCare Clinic – Big Lake was recognized for quality lab services by the Minnesota Department of Health. This accomplishment ensures the lab is eligible for recertification by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
(320) 292-4299 odoreliminators02@gmail.com Chair, Sauk Rapids Chamber
(320) 253-1310 kristenb@americandoorworks.com Chair, Waite Park Chamber
The Sauk Rapids Chamber, a division of the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce, promotes a healthy business environment in the community of Sauk Rapids. Volunteers and committee members work in cooperation with member businesses, local government, the public school system and other community organizations.
The Waite Park Chamber, a division of the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce, is a place where business, education and government come together for the betterment of the community. Programs include the Waite Park State of the City address.
Katie Wayne
Matt Knutson
College of Saint Scholastica ___________
Winkelman Building Corporation ___________
NEWS REEL
MARCO EXPANDS, RECEIVES AWARDS Marco recently purchased three companies: Data Comm, Inc. located in Missouri; Nexus Office Systems, Inc. located in Illinois; and Paragon Solutions Group, based in Plymouth, Minn. The purchase of Paragon Solutions marks 15 company acquisitions by Marco over the past three years. Marco now has 49 locations in eight states. Minnesota Business Magazine awarded Marco the 2016 Community Impact Award in the category of Long-Term Achievement. Marco has been named the winner of two 2016 Perfect Image Awards by imageSource Magazine.
EXECUTIVE EXPRESS ACQUIRES LAKES EXPRESS Executive Express, a St. Cloudbased airport shuttle service, purchased Lakes Express, a Brainerd-based shuttle service. The acquisition allows Executive Express to expand in Central Minnesota. Executive Express currently provides airport shuttle service up to 16 times a day to and from the Minneapolis-St. Paul airport from more than 40 Central Minnesota cities.
FORYSTEK JOINS META 13 Sarah Forystek joined Meta 13 as account manager. Forystek brings experience in client relations, project management, agency operations, marketing, public relations and advertising. She will work closely with Meta 13 clients and expand the agency’s service offerings.
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___________
___________
(320) 529-6663 • kwayne@css.edu Chair, Business, Education, and Technology Committee
___________
The Business, Education, and Technology Committee organizes the Chamber’s annual fall conference providing education and training on a wide variety of topics including legal issues, human resources, information technology, organizational management, and more. Volunteers recruit speakers and sponsors.
___________
(320) 253-2411MattK@ winkbuild.com • Chair, NEXTChamber’s Emerging Leaders
NEXT- Chamber’s Emerging Leaders provides networking and educational opportunities designed for the NEXT generation of business leaders in Central Minnesota.
Stephanie Court
Jodi Speicher
NewCore Wireless ___________
The Good Shepherd Community ___________
(320) 492-8141 Stephanie.court@corewg.com Co- Chairs, Star Celebration
___________
(320) 258-9364 • jodispeicher@ goodshepherdcampus.org
___________
The Star Celebration is the Chamber’s annual volunteer recognition celebration. Committee members are responsible for planning the event and soliciting sponsorships.
DID YOU KNOW?
PARAMOUNT THEATRE CHANGES NAMES
P PARAMOUNT
The Paramount Theatre and Visual Arts Center is changing its name to better reflect what it is and does. The organization and the facility are now known as the Paramount Center for the Arts. The name better represents all that goes on in the theatre, the visual arts and gallery spaces, and education and outreach programming.
IT HAPPENED WHEN?
1977 | Whitney Senior Center Opened
W
hitney Senior Center has been offering programs and services to adults 55 and older since 1977. Prior to its formation, however, the site served as an airport.
In 1929, Mrs. Alice Whitney deeded a 143-acre piece of land about five miles south of St. Cloud to the city. Its purpose was to create a memorial airport to
Doug Danielson
her husband: the Albert G. Whitney Airport. However, in 1933 this land was determined unsuitable for an airport. Mrs. Whitney reacquired the 143 acres and then deeded a different 150 acres of land to the city for the Whitney Memorial Airport.The airport was officially dedicated in 1946 in front of 4,000 spectators. In 1947 two additional runways were added to the airport to make it even more functional.
Mike Grogan
Regular air service continued until 1954. In 1955, Mr. Vandre, airport manager sold the buildings back to the city due to high taxes. The airport remained functional until 1962 when the City of St. Cloud determined that a new site would be more appropriate for the airport. In 1977, the main hangar building was renovated and Whitney Senior Center opened to the public.
Ryan Holthaus
at your SBA Preferred Lender bank. 320-363-7721 www.mysentrybank.com J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6 //
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UpFront YOUR VOICE IN GOVERNMENT
NEWS REEL ST. CLOUD HOSPITAL EARNS AWARDS
EVENING AT THE CAPITAL For more Evening at the Capital photos see Network Central on page 22.
Truven Health Analytics named St. Cloud Hospital a 100 Top Hospital for the 10th time. Of the 146 hospitals in Minnesota, only four were named to the 100 Top Hospitals for 2016. Mayo Clinic – Rochester Methodist Hospital is the only other hospital in Minnesota to achieve Top 100 as many times as St. Cloud Hospital. The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at St. Cloud Hospital received the Silver Level Beacon Award for Excellence for the fourth time. Silver status highlights the sustained performance and patient outcomes of the ICU. The award is presented by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN). Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota re-designated St. Cloud Hospital as a Blue Distinction Center for Specialty Care in the areas of spine surgery and knee and hip replacement. St. Cloud Hospital has the only Blue Distinction Center for spine surgery north of the Twin Cities. Facilities with this distinction meet or exceed overall measures for patient safety and affordable healthcare.
Anita Rasmussen, (L) City of Sartell; Sartell Mayor Sarah Jane Nicholl; Jane DeAustin, Central Minn. Builders Assoc.
Sen. Bill Ingebrigtsen and Kim Pettman, Kim Pettman/Linking Resources
Bernie Perryman, Viking Coca-Cola; Ryan Daniel, Metro Bus; Rep. Tim O’Driscoll, Rep. Jeff Howe
Sen. John Pederson (L), Michael Williams, City of St. Cloud; and Patty Gartland, Greater St. Cloud Development Corp.
BerganKDV NAMED 2016 TOP GROWTH FIRM Accounting Today ranked BerganKDV as the firm with the most growth in the Top 100 firms thanks to the merger of Bergan Paulsen, Networking Solutions and KDV. This growth allowed BerganKDV to make the Top 100 list for the first time. Accounting Today has been compiling the list of leading U.S. public accounting companies by revenue for more than 20 years and the annual rankings are considered an industry benchmark by which CPA firms compare their businesses.
Sen. Chuck Wiger (L) and Rep. Jim Knoblach
Njeri Clement, Tri-CAP
Monica Devers, (L) and Corie Beckermann, St. Cloud State University; Rep. Tama Theis 16
Business Central Magazine // J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6
Sen. Torry Westrom (L) and Sen. Dave Senjem
Wendy Hendricks, Hendricks Marketing and Sen. Dan Hall
TOP HATS: NEW BUSINESSES
Sartell-St. Stephen ISD #748, public school, 212 3rd Ave. N, Sartell. Pictured: Brian Jarl, Jeff Schwiebert, Kay Nelson, Steve Wruck, Erik Hanson.
Kwik Trip, family-owned company with a fun, fast, and fresh convenience store in your neighborhood, 10617 Upton Ave. S, Bloomington. Pictured: Jill Magelssen, Justin Pope, Dolora Musech.
The Perfect Fit, personal training studio offering semi-private training, personal training, and bootcamps, with a focus on exercise, nutrition, and life balance, 331 4th Ave. S, Sartell. Pictured: Tammy Buttweiler, Julia Krengel, Caryn Stadther.
Chatology Services, a non-profit, non-emergency phone service, for those needing support, 745 Washington Memorial Drive, St. Cloud. Pictured: Sheri Moran, Dr. Angel Doring, Peg Imholte.
TOP HATS : NEW LOCATIONS, OWNERSHIP & EXPANSIONS Pepperjax Grill, fresh to order Philly sandwiches, rice bowls, giant burritos, loaded nachos and fresh salads; new drive through, 3219 Division Street, St. Cloud. Pictured: Shannon Templin, Dan Neumann, TJ Kellner, Veronika Wilson, Alyssa Zirbes, Taylor Day, Tammy Buttweiler.
SignMAX, a local full-service sign shop located in Waite Park, including printed banners, signs, decals and more, 1745 Quebecor Road, suite 100, St. Cloud. Pictured: Rich Gallus, John Kron, Michael Saterbak, Ben Menke, Rick Poganski.
A defense team you can trust. You and your business deserve efficient, responsive, and effective legal representation. At Quinlivan & Hughes, we are skilled trial attorneys with practical experience defending a wide variety of legal matters. We understand our clients’ needs and work hard to get positive results. Let us put our extensive knowledge and experience to work for you.
QUINLIVAN.COM | 320-251-1414 1740 West St. Germain Street St. Cloud, MN 56301
Our Defense Team: Steve Schwegman, Mike LaFountaine, Dyan Ebert, Ken Bayliss, Rachael Presler, Jim McApline, Cally Kjellberg-Nelson, Mike Feichtinger, John Sullivan, Laura Moehrle.
J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6 //
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UpFront
NEWS REEL COBORN’S PROMOTES, HIRES Coborn’s, Inc. promoted Emily Coborn to the new role of vice president of fresh merchandising, and Mike Richter to senior director of meat, seafood and fresh merchandising. Tom Williams was hired as director of produce and floral merchandising. Williams most recently served as manager of corporate retail produce and floral at SpartanNash Company.
Newsreel compiled by Whitney Bina. For consideration in News Reel send your news release to givers@StCloudAreaChamber.com
BOSEK NAMED “RISING STAR”
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Bank Investment Consultant named Nate Bosek one of eight “Rising Stars of the Bank Channel.” Bosek is a financial advisor with Bremer Investment Services/Raymond James. The annual list highlights up-andcomers in the financial industry who are under age 30 and who have been in business fewer than five years.
QUINLIVAN ANNOUNCES BOARD MEMBERS Quinlivan & Hughes elected Steve Schwegman to a second three-year term to its Board of Directors. He serves as chief executive officer. Quinlivan also elected Ron Brandenburg to chief financial officer and Dyan Ebert to secretary.
DEISER JOINS HEARTLAND GLASS Matt Deiser joined Heartland Glass as project manager. He holds a degree in construction management and a minor in business from Minnesota State University, Mankato.
ROLLING RIDGE EARNS RECOGNITION The Central Minnesota Wedding Association named Rolling Ridge Wedding & Event Center a 2016 Vendor of Distinction recipient. These annual awards are presented to members of the Central Minnesota Wedding Association based on reviews from clients.
Business Central Magazine // J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6
BCCalendar GROW | NETWORK | PROFIT
u
JULY/AUGUST 2016
CAN’ T M IS S O PPO RT U NIT IES TO INF LU E NC E , PRO M OT E , A ND L E AR N . Visit events.StCloudAreaChamber.com for a detailed calendar. SPOTLIGHT
AUGUST 8
Chamber Open The 70th annual Chamber Open is August 8 at Territory Golf Club, 480 55th Ave. SE, St. Cloud. The event begins with a shotgun start at 11:30 a.m. Dinner follows the event at 5:30 p.m.
JULY 20 & AUGUST 17
AUGUST 12
Government Affairs A discussion of local government issues on the second Friday of the month, 7:30 - 9 a.m. at the Chamber office, 1411 W St. Germain Street, Ste 101, St. Cloud. July: No meeting August 12: Topic: TBD.
JULY 12 & AUGUST 9
NEXT – Chamber’s Emerging Leaders Offers professional development, leadership and networking opportunities for emerging leaders in Central Minnesota. Meets the second Tuesday of every month, noon-1 p.m. Cost is $195 for an annual membership. Register to Whitney, wbina@ StCloudAreaChamber.com.
July 12: “Minimizing Your Carbon Footprint” presented by Jeremy Wacker, Blattner Energy. Location TBD. August 9: Visitor’s Day at Urban Moose Brewing Co., 106 2nd Ave. N, Sauk Rapids.
JULY 14 & AUGUST 9
Business After Hours A complimentary open house for Chamber members and guests. Bring your business cards and prepare to grow your network! 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. July 14: Hosted by D. J. Bitzan Jewelers, 203 Waite Ave. N, Waite Park. August 9: Hosted by Courtyard by Marriott, 404 W St. Germain Street, St. Cloud.
Waite Park Chamber For businesses interested in Waite Park issues. Lunch is provided by the host when you register at least two days in advance. 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. July 20: Hosted by Plaza Park Bank at the Moose Family Center, 1300 3rd St. N Waite Park, featuring a presentation on “Building a Tiny House” by Jerry and Josh Battis, JB Home Improvers. August 17: Hosted by American Door Works on-site at 2150 Frontage Rd. S, Waite Park. The meeting includes a networking event.
JULY28 & AUGUST 25
Sauk Rapids Chamber For businesses interested in Sauk Rapids issues. Lunch is provided by the host when you
register at least two days in advance. 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
July 28: Hosted by Benton County Agricultural Society at the Benton County Fairgrounds with a presentation on “Projects and Services of the Benton County Economic Development Association.� August 25: Hosted by the Sauk Rapids Chamber at the Sauk Rapids Government Center, 250 Summit Ave. N, Sauk Rapids. The meeting includes a three-minute Business Showcase. For information on these or other business events, call 320-251-2940. The Chamber office is located at 1411 W St. Germain Street, Ste 101, St Cloud.
TOP HATS: NEW MEMBERS
AllBrite Blinds, residential and commercial blind sales and installation, cleaning and repair; professional window cleaning, 2307 Clearwater Road, St. Cloud. Pictured: Dolora Musech, Derek Albrecht, Leah Albrecht, Margaret Albrecht, John Albrecht, Peg Imholte.
Gasperlin Insurance Agency, multiline insurance agency, 2789 Clearwater Road, Suite C, St. Cloud. Pictured: Inese Mehr, Angel Leon, Lindsay Holman, Tammy Buttweiler.
Murphy Business of Minnesota, a full-service business brokerage helping business owners value their businesses, sell, and grow though acquisition, 250 Prairie Center Drive, Eden Prairie. Pictured: Brian Jarl, David LaVoi, Dolora Musech.
Clearwater Travel Plaza / Nelson Bros. Cutting Edge Catering, restaurant, catering, conference room, gift shop, and gas station, 950 State Highway 24, Clearwater. Pictured: Sheri Moran, Steve Pallansch, Wendy Johnson, Dan Lunning, Peg Imholte.
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UpFront THE TROUBLE WITH BUSINESS
Onboarding
Helping new employees acclimate to the work and culture of your company improves their chances of staying…and succeeding. By Tracy Knofla
can retain in a short amount of time. Cultivate an environment where asking questions is encouraged so that no one feels “stupid” for asking a question. 3 Offer mentoring to all new
T
he process of hiring a new employee is an arduous one. Simply reviewing all of the resumes is a daunting task. However, once you have survived the process and found the right candidate, you want to get them up and running as quickly as possible. This process is called onboarding. Onboarding is not a new concept. In years past, this onboarding or orientation, has focused mainly on the specific work the new employee would be doing. While this is important, in today’s complex workplace it is not enough to simply teach employees the mechanics of their jobs. It is also important to make sure that employees find their niche within the culture of your organization. Many new hires leave their positions not because
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of workload or skill set, but because they don’t feel that they are a good fit with the company. Losing an employee for any reason is a waste of time, energy, and money. Do everything you can to help your new employees make a positive impact quickly and for as long as possible. These five tips should help ensure longevity with your newest hires. 1 Create a clear set of expectations for both the job duties and the expected performance. Bring the job descriptions to life for your new employees. Don’t just
hand them the description and ask them to interpret it themselves. Encourage their supervisors to review the job descriptions and to fill in the blanks between the job description and the job expectations. There is often a wide gap between the two. 2 Host engaging training sessions for new employees and develop assessments at two, four, and six week intervals to insure that learning is really taking place. Do not dump all of the new information on your employees at once. There are limits to what the human brain
employees with engaged and happy employees. Make this position an important one within the organization. This mentoring relationship should be focused on “this is how we do this here at XYZ Company.” They should be lunch companions until the new employee finds a peer group. They are a “go-to” person to answer any questions and provide introductions to other key employees. They could expect to maintain this position for 3-6 months. 4 Train your supervisors to positively contribute to the onboarding process. New employees should have access to their supervisors. They should feel free to ask clarifying questions and to feel assured that they are on the right track. They should not have to guess what their supervisors think of their performance and they should not have to wait three months for an evaluation of their work. A supervisor’s attention, in the most positive way, is an invaluable tool in the employee retention tool kit.
contributor Tracy Knofla is the co-owner and featured consultant of High Impact Training. She has been presenting to audiences across the country for more than 25 years.
TOP HATS: MILESTONES
5 Make the direct connection between the employee’s position and the mission and goals of the company. Help employees see how their efforts, and those of their co-workers, contribute to the successful attainment of organizational goals. Give them language to use with their family and friends about the importance of their jobs. Foster a sense of teamwork throughout the company. Successful onboarding requires intentional effort and collaboration throughout the entire organization
100 Years: Bernick’s, a fourth generation family-owned distributor of Pepsi and Miller beer products. 801 Sundial Drive, Waite Park. Pictured: Sheri Moran, Dick Bernick, Jason Bernick, Dean Bernick, and Julie Forsberg. Kneeling from left: Inese Mehr, Diane Diego Ohmann.
20 Years: Advantage Chiropractic, specializing in back pain, headaches, sports injuries, prenatal therapy, wellness, nutrition, and pediatrics, 32 32nd Ave. S, suite 100, St. Cloud. Pictured: Diane Diego Ohmann, Dr. Mark Roerick, Donna Roerick, Tammy Buttweiler.
25 Years: Central Landscape Supply, wholesale distributor of lawn and garden plants and equipment, 4026 County Road 74, St. Cloud. Pictured: Peg Imholte, Herman Roerick, Sheri Moran.
TOP HATS: EXPANSIONS The Re-STORE, selling new and used donated building materials to the retail home improvement market, with revenues supporting the mission of Central Minnesota Habitat for Humanity, 2801 W St. Germain Street, St. Cloud. Pictured: Rick Poganski, Mark Phillips, Rich Gallus.
M A N U FAC T U R E R OF P R E M I U M C ON C R E T E PAV I NG S TON E S , SL A B S & WA L L S
I
NSPIRATION
is around us every day. Be inspired with Borgerts’ premium colors and textures to create your dream setting to come home to.
Enjoy Life Outdoors Visit our showroom at: 8646 Ridgewood Rd., St. Joseph, MN 56374
For more information or for a free Borgert catalog call 320.363.4671 W W W. B O R G E R T P R O D U C T S . CO M
J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6 //
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UpFront
NetworkCentral GROW | NETWORK | PROFIT
u
E V E N T S A R O U N D T H E S T. C LO U D A R E A
NETWORK
St. Cloud Area Evening at the Capital
Jodi Speicher, (L) The Good Shepherd Community; Sen. Bill Ingebrigtsen; Amanda Groethe, Stearns Electric Assoc.; and Eunice Adjei
Paul McIntyre (L), Gold Cross Ambulance-St.Cloud; Rep. Tim O’Driscoll; Tom Travaglio, Gold Cross AmbulanceSt. Cloud
Jason Neurenberg, (L) Central Minn. Housing Partnership; Sen. Dan Hall; Mayor Dave Kleis; Ian Bernick, Bernick’s; Brett Anderson, Sentry Bank
Jerry Relph, (L) Relph for State Senate; King Banaian, Ashish Vaidya, and Earl Potter, III, St. Cloud State University
Minn. Hospital Assoc. lobbyist Mary Krinkie; Dave Borgert, CentraCare Health; Ryan Daniel, Metro Bus
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Rep. Jim Knoblach
Sen. John Pederson and Jami Bestgen, Bachman Jewelers
Steve Gottwalt (L) and Pat Lynch, City of Sartell Roger Bonn, (L) Peter’s Body Shop; Sen. Bill Weber; lobbyist Kevin Walli
Gloria Vande Brake, Minuteman Press; Sen. John Pederson; John Theis, Polished Concrete Plus
PROFIT
2016 Business Awards Luncheon
Jason Bernick, Bernick’s, chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors (L) congratulates Scott Blattner, president, Blattner Energy, recipient of the 2016 Entrepreneurial Success Award Diane Mendel, Playhouse Child Care, (L) the 2003 St. Cloud Area Small Business of the Year and the 2004 Minnesota Entrepreneur of the Year; and Melissa Kruse-Kelley, J.F. Kruse Jewelers, the 2014 St. Cloud Area Small Business of the Year and the 2015 Minnesota Entrepreneur of the Year; (Center photo) Sue Borgert, Borgert Products, the 2016 St. Cloud Area Small Business of the Year Joel Butkowski, Butkowski Digital Imaging, and Wendy Hendricks, Hendricks Marketing
Brian, (L) Carmie and Travis Mick, CWMF Corp, the 2016 Family Owned Business of the Year
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BUSINESS TOOLS GROW | NETWORK | PROFIT
u
24 & 26 Management Toolkit 28 & 32 Entreprenuerism 30 Working Well 31 Tech News 34 Tech Strategies 36 Economy Central by Falcon Bank uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu
RESOURCES THAT HELP YOUR BUSINESS GROW
MANAGEMENT TOOLKIT
Saying Good-bye
General Rules 1 The interview should
Exit interviews can help employers identify problems and reduce turnover. By Lori Athmann
be voluntary, informal and confidential. If an interview is conducted without the employee’s active participation, the information gained may not be meaningful. If an employee does not wish to participate in a face-to-face interview, provide a written survey as an alternative.
2 Give the employee the questions in advance of the interview. You will receive more meaningful responses if employees have time to think about what they want to express.
3 Consider conducting the
C
onducting an exit interview with a departing employee is as necessary and valuable as conducting a job interview. If done correctly, it provides the opportunity to learn about the employee’s experience working for your organization. Terminations are when employees are often most candid. It can assist in understanding
the real reason why the employee is leaving, including adverse working conditions or misunderstandings the employee may have had regarding his or his position. Although typically requested of employees who depart voluntarily, management should consider conducting interviews with every departing employee. This may assist in
contributor Lori Athmann is a partner with Jovanovich, Kadlec & Athmann, PLLP.
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identifying, and anticipating, potential legal issues. With this information, your organization can determine if changes are necessary to address any deficiencies or detrimental patterns. The actions your organization take based on the data can help increase employee satisfaction and retention, and provide for management training and development. Although a certain degree of turnover is healthy, identifying and correcting underlying problems can reduce turnover, which can increase your bottom line.
interview at a neutral place, such as a luncheon. This may provide a more inviting and non-threatening environment for employees to freely express their views.
4 The interview should be conducted by someone outside the employee’s immediate management structure. An employee may be intimidated or hesitant to express honest feedback to a direct supervisor.
5 Be warm, receptive and interested in what the employee has to say. Don’t interject personal comments, opinions or defend the organization and its actions.
FAST
Do not argue with the employee. It is useless, creates bad feelings, and may cause you to say something you later regret. Your role is to gather information and to stay objective.
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Conducting the interview 1 Let the employee know the information obtained will remain confidential and is being used only as a tool for training and improvements.
2 Ask open-ended questions: “What did you enjoy most, and least, about working for the organization?” “What suggestions can you share that would make our organization stronger or more successful?” “How did you feel you were treated by management and your colleagues?”
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3 Probe for the employee’s honest view about management (fairness, approachability and effectiveness). Ask the employee to provide specific examples of both positive and negative feedback.
4 Thank the employee for his or her input. It is okay to express regret that things did not work out and to wish the employee luck.
The data obtained should be carefully analyzed, not only on an individual employee front, but also in relation to data obtained from interviews of past employees. An organization that is honest with itself will use the data to make corrections where deficiencies are discovered. Doing so may help reduce turnover and retraining costs, develop practices to improve working conditions, and assist specific managers with performance improvement. J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6 //
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BusinessTools MANAGEMENT TOOLKIT
Effective Web Writing Improve the quality of your communication to increase your online audience. By Mary MacDonell Belisle
punctuation rules IF the tone, rhythm, and subject matter of your copy are enhanced. 6. Voice active-ate. The voice of your copy should be active. Here’s a passive example, “The brakes were applied by Shirley.” Here’s an active example, “Shirley applied the brakes.” The subject (Shirley) performs the action (applied) to what? (the brakes).
H
ere’s something we can all agree on – everyone can improve the quality of web pages, blogs, and social media posts by increasing our awareness and using a checklist that includes these 10 writing tips. 1. Define your audience. Ask yourself why someone visits your website, reads your blog, or is interested in your post? The more characteristics you can list of your reading audience, the better you can hone the message, tone, and vocabulary. When you know your audience, you can target your headings and subheadings, and organize your key points. 2. Make it scannable. People scan top-to-bottom, right-to-left in a rough “Z” configuration. So place high-priority items at
the top of the page, and arrange copy points in descending order, like an inverted pyramid. Help readers navigate using size, placement, and text formatting in headings (larger versus smaller font and bold versus light typeface) and sub-headings. Bullet and block words, and use white space. Display hyperlinks in a consistent highlighted color. 3. Keep it short. Average length for an article is 500 words. For a webpage, fit your copy above the fold, meaning the length of the viewing screen. Of course, if your material must be longer, keep the webpage scrolling to a minimum, or create “Part II” for your blog. Remember … short sentences, short headings, short singlesubject paragraphs with topic sentences. An exception is
narrative copy because people will read a good story if it captures their attention. 4. Conversational, please. Focus on a friend or family member in good standing, and talk to them with your copy. Write for the grade level of your audience. Microsoft Word lets you check for readability under “Spelling and Grammar” in the drop-down menu. Select “Show readability statistics.” Adjust sentence lengths and vocabulary accordingly. 5. Create dynamic sentences. Subject/verb/ object construction is the strongest. Sentences and headings beginning with verbs encourage action. Free yourself from sentence structure and
contributor Mary MacDonell Belisle is a freelance copy and content writer with mary macdonell belisle – wording for you. She helps clients choose and use their words wisely and more effectively. Her website: wordingforyou.com.
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7. Choose “you” instead of “we.” Immediately include your reader/viewer in the conversation by using the pronoun “you.” Copy spewing “we this” and “we that” everywhere is a self-promoting turn-off. 8. Use key words and phrases. Page headings, subheadings, bullets, body copy, photo tags, and navigation links can all carry key words or phrases to attract visitors and/or readership, and be noticed by search engines. Words should be relevant to your subject matter and have a high search count but also be unique to you. Note that a search for “website writing” yields “Writing for the Web,” “How to Write for the Web,” “20 Tips on How to Write for the Web, and “9 Simple Tips for Writing Persuasive Web Content.” 9. Keyword naturally. Use keywords normally. If your keyword phrase is “how to write for the web,” use the exact phrase no more than twice
GOING GREEN
and variations of the phrase thereafter. Keyword stuffing, a big turn-off for Google, looks like this: “So you want to learn how to write for the web? Well, to learn how to write for the web, it is important to follow various tips about how to write for the web. The first tip for how to write for the web is …” Fake and unnatural. J. Please your readers. Never compromise copy to satisfy the search engine. Your web writing will be more effective if you concentrate on just one of these 10 tips. Master all 10, and you’ll be a pro.
GreenChill Partnership
Coborn’s is doing its part to slow global warming.
C
oborn’s, Inc., St. Cloud,
continuous improvement
By joining GreenChill, Coborn’s pledges to go
in sustainability,” said Chris
ronmental Protection Agency’s
beyond regulatory require-
Coborn, president, CEO and
(EPA) GreenChill partnership.
ments. The company will work
chairman at Coborn’s, Inc.
This free, voluntary program is
to reduce harmful emissions
“Our company’s continued
designed to help food retailers
by continuing its transition
success depends upon
reduce refrigerant emissions
to environmentally friendlier
sustaining our environment,
and decrease their impact on
refrigerants, reducing the
as well as our employees,
the ozone layer and climate
amount of refrigerant used,
our guests and the commu-
change.
and adopting green refrigera-
nities we serve.” Coborn’s
tion technologies, strategies,
is currently building a new
and practices.
supermarket in Isanti, Minn.,
has joined the U.S. Envi-
and the company will seek
“Coborn’s has always been committed to the
GreenChill certification for
responsible use of environ-
the building.
mental resources, and seeks
Business lending centered on you.
Chad Hess
- Senior Commercial Lender
Whether you need to finance a new venture or expand your existing business, our trusted advisors will focus on finding a solution to fit your business’ needs. Talk to Business Lender Chad Hess today! 888.330.8482 | myCMCU.org |
Centered on you.
Equal Opportunity Lender | Federally Insured by NCUA
J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6 //
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BusinessTools ENTREPRENEURISM
Profit vs. Sales
Increasing revenue does not always lead to increased profit. Understanding why is crucial to business success. By Pat Plamann
The road to success starts with understanding the difference between revenue, gross profit, and profit margin.
H
ave you ever found yourself in this situation: Last year was your biggest revenue year ever, but you were less profitable than previous years. If so, have you taken the time to figure out why? As small business owners, we often focus much of our time and effort on increasing revenue. However, increasing revenue does not always lead to increasing profit margin. Understanding why, and adjusting business practices
accordingly, is crucial to a successful business. The road to success starts with understanding the difference between revenue, gross profit, and profit margin. Revenue is defined as money generated from selling products or services. Gross profit is defined as the difference between revenue and the cost of making a product or service. Profit margin is the ratio of gross profit divided by revenue.
contributor Pat Plamann is a partner in the accounting firm of Schlenner Wenner and Co.
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Profit margin should be analyzed for each major product or service, allowing businesses to see which are the most profitable. This then allows businesses to concentrate efforts on selling more profitable products or services, and possibly eliminate or reposition those that are less profitable. An important component of profit margin is direct costs. In a manufacturing or construction business this is most commonly material and labor costs (wages, payroll taxes, fringe benefits). Knowing the direct costs for each product helps businesses determine what to charge. Additional factors that impact direct costs include: Paying overtime wages –––––––––– Untimely delivery of required raw materials –––––––––– Inadequate equipment to handle the workload ––––––––––
Understanding these issues helps businesses control direct costs on a job-by-job basis and can lead to an increased profit margin. In service businesses, the direct costs are almost entirely
related to labor. Knowing how much time it takes to complete a project is critical. A project time budget is important to maintaining a good profit margin in service-based businesses. It can help ensure that projects are completed in a timely manner and that the right employee is working on each project. Projects that take more time should command more revenue. Once you understand direct costs, you can decide which products or services to offer, and when to make them available. During busy times, look at factors such as lead time, set up time, and delivery time to make sure you are focusing on the items with the highest profit margins. However, during slower periods, you may choose to accept jobs with lower profit margins in order to keep the workforce busy. Understanding direct costs also helps you analyze your product or service mix. Grouping work that is similar in nature can create economies of scale and discounted purchasing of raw materials. All this leads to improving the company’s profit margin.
Source: American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACCEEE)
GOING GREEN
Energy Efficiency Scorecard Energy efficiency measures continue to flourish across the country. The annual State Scorecard assesses the most common state policies and programs that improve energy efficiency in our homes, businesses, industries, and transportation systems.
Photo courtesy of PineCone Vision
#10 Minnesota’s ranking among the 50 states for energy efficiency (tied with Illinois); #1 was Massachusetts.
25.7 million The number
of megawatt-hours saved because of electricity efficiency programs in 2014.
35%
The increase in gas savings nationally from 2013 to 2014, reported as 374 million therms (MMTherms).
$7 billion The amount utilities nationwide invested in energy efficiency in 2014.
DOING GOOD
Warming Hearts PineCone Vision Center’s staff and doctors served hundreds of warm meals as a Salvation Army PhilanthroFEED sponsor. PhilanthroFEED is a one-of-a-kind partnership between the St. Cloud Salvation Army and local businesses and civic organizations, serving meals to approximately 200 individuals in need. Three years ago, PineCone Vision Center began the tradition by serving the first PhilanthroFEED meal.
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BusinessTools WORKING WELL
Conquering the Afternoon Slump Here are six strategies to help put some oomph into your afternoon.
By Kelly Radi
a completely different perspective. 4 Seek Some Sun Sunshine and fresh air are the antidote to sluggishness. For a mental health boost, step outside for 5-10 minutes. It will help reset your chronological clock and lower the amount of melatonin (the sleep hormone) your body produces while giving you a valuable dose of daybrightening vitamin D. 5 Fuel Up
I
t’s mid-afternoon and you’re sitting at your desk when… whoosh! Your head snaps back with a snort. You quickly glance around, embarrassed, hoping nobody saw you nod off. Yes, it’s that time of day when your body and brain need a little pick-me-up. If you feel yourself losing focus, try these strategies to put the pep back in your productivity.
berries, or citrus slices to your water bottle for additional flavor without added sugar or empty calories. Not an H20 lover? Go green! Green tea, that is. Full of antioxidants, green tea is a smart swap for sugary drinks. In one Swiss study, MRIs revealed that people who drank green tea had greater activity in the working-memory area of their brains.
1 Stay Hydrated
2 Stand up and Breathe
When you need a jolt of energy, your instinct may be to grab a coffee or cola, but that is not the most effective choice. A glass of ice cold water delivers oxygen to you muscles and organs, giving you the lift you need without making you jumpy. Add cucumber slices,
Your mother was right when she told you to sit up straight. When you hunch over your desk, your breathing is more shallow than if you sit up straight or stand. To refresh your mind and get more energy-boosting oxygen through your body, take a
breathing break. Stand up with your hands at your sides and take a long, deep breath as you raise them up over your head. Pause for a count of four and then slowly lower your hands back down as you exhale. Repeat three or four times. 3 Get Physical Getting sleepy? Sneak a small burst of exercise into your afternoon, such as taking the stairs or practicing a few simple yoga stretches. This will not only revitalize your mind, but can help improve cardiovascular fitness, weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. If you’re stuck on a task or having difficulty thinking creatively, a brisk walk around the water cooler can deliver
contributor Kelly Radi is a freelance writer, public speaker and owner of Radi To Write LLC, a public relations writing firm. radi.to.write@gmail.com.
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Business Central Magazine // J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6
Feeling sluggish? Don’t succumb to the donuts in the break room. Instead, keep a convenient stash of nutrientrich snacks in the office fridge or your desk drawer. Eat an apple with string cheese and whole wheat crackers or nosh on a homemade trail mix of nuts, popcorn, and dried fruit. These nourishing snacks balance blood sugar, keeping you energized and ready to tackle your next project. 5 Feel the Music Attention wandering? Trade that third cup of coffee for some rock-n-roll. A 2-minute dance party in the cubicle will get you back in the productive zone. If you’re concerned about your coworkers witnessing your limited dancing skills, just grab your headphones and press play. Nobody has to know you can’t dance and that you actually like Justin Bieber.
TECH NEWS
Skin Deep
Apparently skin is the next big thing in technology — from touch-pads to nimble fingered robots.
Photo credit: factor-tech.com
N
ew wearable technology turns
the entire lower arm into a touchpad. The new system, called SkinTrack, allows for continuous touch tracking on the hands and arms – and all you need is a special ring. Out of the way smartwatch, you’re obsolete now.
Sources: Futurity; MIT Technology Review; Factor-Tech.com
A
robot surgeon has been taught to perform a delicate procedure – stitching soft tissue together with a needle and thread. It may be more precise and reliable that the best human doctor, but what is its bedside manner like? Watch the video (very short and kind of gross) at BusinessCentral Magazine.com.
A
new material that can be applied as an imperceptible layer to protect and tighten the skin has been developed by U.S. scientists. It can
provide an anti-aging appearance, hydrate the skin, deliver drugs and protect against UV rays. It turns out, beauty really is only skin deep.
Brian Hart 26 8th Avenue South St. Cloud, MN • 320-281-3056 www.brianhart.sandler.com S Sandler Training Finding Power in Reinforcement (with design) and Sandler Training are registered service marks of Sandler Systems, Inc. © 2016 Sandler Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.
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BusinessTools ENTREPRENEURISM
Degrees of Connection
By Brian Hart
Act One - establish the characters. Review the connections of a person in your network you know well. Identify two or three of their connections who fit your ideal prospect profile.
W
hile most people primarily think of LinkedIn® as a job board and secondarily as a marketing platform, it actually functions like a real-life networking event. If your goal is to find more prospects, get more and better referrals, and increase the size of your commission check, approach it with a sales mindset. But not a “salesy” mindset. That will be counterproductive. Amateur salespeople try to sell to everyone. Professional salespeople have specific targets. Just as it’s not smart to exchange business cards with every person at a networking event, the objective on
LinkedIn is not to have as many connections as possible. You might be surprised to learn that most top salespeople on LinkedIn have fewer than 500 connections. And they know every single one of their connections personally. Would the person you’re considering connecting with take your call? Would you take theirs? If not, don’t connect with them yet. Your connections should be based on existing relationships. “But,” you may be wondering, “if I already know the people in my network, how do I use LinkedIn to prospect?” By taking your prospecting activity to the next level. Literally.
Act Two - character development. Bring those names to your connection and ask for an introduction. Your email might sound like this: “Carol, I see that you are connected to Bob Jones at XYZ Company. How well do you know him? Would you be comfortable introducing me? Brian.” Act Three - resolution. If Carol says “yes,” send her a second email that makes it easy for her to introduce you to Bob. “Carol, I got your message. I really appreciate that. In my experience, an email introduction can work very well for everybody involved. I have attached a template for your review. Please feel free to edit
Degrees of Connection example: 1st
Brian
2nd 2n d
Carol 1st
You want to identify the people who fit your idealprospect profile who your connections know, but who you don’t. On LinkedIn, the folks your first degree connection knows, but you don’t are called second degree connections. Your goal is to find a qualified mutual connection and ask for a personal introduction to your prospect. You are the protagonist in a three-act play.
Bob 1st
Prospecting with LinkedIn works best when you take it to the next level.
Alice
and change it in any way you want. Brian” The attached template, which Carol can cut and paste into an email, reads something like, “Bob and Brian, I want to introduce the two of you. Bob is a good friend and professional colleague of mine, and Brian is a sales training expert who is engaged with a number of my clients and who does top-notch work. Brian, please reach out to Bob and set up a time to speak. If either of you want me to be part of that conversation or have any questions, please let me know. All the best, Carol.” Make the email “dialogue” from this play your own, and you will indeed take your LinkedIn prospecting to the next level. Cue the thunderous applause! This article is based on tips included in the book “LinkedIn The Sandler Way.” You can download the full PDF version for free at BrianHart.Sandler.Com .
?
Do you know your LinkedIn Social Selling Index? Learn more in TechStrategies on pg. 34.
contributor Brian Hart is the owner and president of Sandler Training in St. Cloud, specializing in sales, management, and leadership training and development. He can be reached at brain.hart@sandler.com
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BY THE NUMBERS
Gender Parity
Research by Ernst and Young shows the biggest companies across seven major industries are far from realizing the benefits of gender diversity.
13%
Survey respondents who expect a substantial increase in the number of women in leadership roles in five years
18%
Companies that have structured programs to develop women in leadership roles
69%
Survey respondents who believe they will achieve gender parity on their boards within the next 25 years
Read more at BusinessCentralMagazine.com
42%
Male respondents who cited a shortage of female candidates as the top obstacle to gender parity
28%
Women respondents who cite unsupportive culture and organizational bias as the top obstacles
Source: “Navigating disruption without gender diversity? Think again.” A report by Ernst & Young, April 2016.
Best State for Women Minnesota is the best state in the nation for women’s economic and social well-being. That’s according to a report by the consumer website WalletHub. Minnesota places near the top on almost all of the factors that make up WalletHub’s rankings. It’s the second best state for working moms and for female life expectancy at birth. It’s tied for the second lowest proportion of young women dropping out of high school nationwide. It has the fourth highest percentage of women who voted in the 2012 presidential election (a third of the state legislature is female, too) and the fifth lowest uninsured rate among women. As far as the rest of the Midwest is concerned, Wisconsin came in at No. 10, followed by Iowa at No. 13 and North Dakota at No. 14.
ource: Wired
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33
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BusinessTools TECH STRATEGIES
What’s Your Social Selling Index? LinkedIn can tell you – objectively – how well you’re using social media to build your brand. By Dawn Zimmerman relationships. Get your free score at linkedin.com/sales/ssi. So once you have seen your score, if you’re like me, you’ll want to know how to influence it. Here are a few ways I have found that get results: Create a professional brand. This is the most important step you will ever take on LinkedIn, whether you care about your SSI or not. Take the time to complete your profile, first ensuring your summary communicates your value proposition. Your skills and their related endorsements and the use of specialty sections such as volunteer experience all come into play.
H
ow effective have you been at building your social brand and leveraging social media to achieve key business results? It’s a question data can answer. Social selling is when a professional uses social media to develop relationships with prospects and deliver value until the prospect is ready to buy. A group of top performing sales professionals helped LinkedIn develop a four-part formula based on key behaviors that help drive sales.
Called a Social Selling Index (SSI), this tool is not simply for sales professionals. It gives all professionals a pulse on how effectively they are using LinkedIn as a business tool and how their performance compares to their network and their industry. SSI scores individuals on a 100-point scale based on their effectiveness of establishing a professional brand, finding the right people, engaging with insights, and building
Find the right people. LinkedIn is as much of a professional database as anything else. Use the search functional to identify people to add to your network, join groups and request introductions. Check out who’s viewed your profile (your view is limited with a free account) and then engage with those individuals. Engage with insights. This is more about using LinkedIn as a communication tool. LinkedIn wants its newsfeed to become the morning newspaper for business leaders. Focus on posting valuable information, interacting
contributor Dawn Zimmerman is CEO of The Write Advantage, a St. Cloud-based communications company that specializes in social media.
34
Business Central Magazine // J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6
with Pulse and using InMail. Be intentional about the content you share. Start by considering one of these three types of thought leadership: 1 Industry: Be a source of information on news, trends and what’s next in your industry. 2 Product: Share how-to explanations, best practices and strategies related to the products or services your organization provides. 3 Organizational: Communicate key elements related to building a strong corporate culture and attracting and retaining good people.
Building strong relationships. This is all about connections. About 500 connections is the benchmark for LinkedIn legitimacy and 1,000 is the mark to hit to achieve a top score for an SSI. Interacting with posts published by your network also will help elevate your score in this area. Did you make it to the end of this article without checking your SSI? Curiosity already would have had the best of me. Check out your SSI today, and then spend a week or two logging on each day, making new connections and interacting with the LinkedIn newsfeed. (The LinkedIn app makes this easy.) Within a short time, it’s likely you will see your score increase. And with that comes more business opportunities.
TECH NEWS
DID YOU KNOW?
Robo-Hotel
Quarry Park hits the Top Ten
Leave it to the Japanese to merge tradition with living on the technological edge. A new theme park boasts the first hotel staffed with robots. Check-in at the Henn-na Hotel is performed by a Velociraptor and rooms are staffed by personal-assistant bots. Source: Wired See them in action at BusinessCentralMagazine.com
One Person’s Junk… Most of us would never buy an ugly carrot. But a cute little carrot? That was the brain child of Mike Yurosek who turned 400 tons a day of unusable carrots into a gold mine called baby carrots. Feeding the ugly, unsellable carrots through an industrial potato peeler and a green-bean chopper, he started a revolution that doubled the nation’s carrot consumption in ten years.
St. Cloud’s Quarry Park & Nature Preserve has the highest concentration of quarries anywhere in the United States. Now the park has new bragging rights — it’s been named one of the “Top Ten Secret Swimming Holes” in the United States, according to the Travel Channel.
You can find the whole story at BusinessCentralMagazine.com
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35
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BusinessTools
Economy Central presented by
ECONOMY CENTRAL
More than Minnesota Nice
The face of Central Minnesota is changing – literally. Welcoming our newest neighbors is more than “Minnesota Nice,” it’s an economic necessity. By Whitney Bina
O
ver the last several years, Central Minnesota has faced significant population changes. According to the experts, the key to solving workforce problems and filling vacant job openings resides in learning, understanding and taking advantage of our newest neighbors. Regional experts gathered at the 54th Annual Winter Institute hosted by St. Cloud State University to share insights into these population changes. Panel members included: Luke Greiner, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED); King Banaian, St. Cloud State University (SCSU); and Yusuf Abdi, Lutheran Social Services. History of Change Our regional population continues to evolve over many different areas, according to Luke Greiner, DEED. The largest of these changes is concentrated in increasing diversity. “Our area is changing rapidly not only from an increase in black and African American populations, but also from a decrease in white populations,” he said. “From 2009 to 2014, St. Cloud’s Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) saw a 115.8 percent increase in black or African American labor force workers. That’s over 1,500 people.” At the same time, white populations decreased by 0.4 percent, or 410 people. (See graph 1.) Black and African American populations grew four times faster than the state rate over
36
Business Central Magazine // J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6
the last fourteen years and comprise about four percent of the regional population today, Greiner said. Likewise, the Hispanic population doubled between 2000 and 2014. School diversity also continues to change. In 2008, 89 percent of regional K-12 enrollment was white. By 2015 that number dropped to 80 percent. “Black students are the largest enrolling minority in area schools with 3,535 students in 2015, followed by Hispanics at 1,555 students and Asians with 724 students,” Greiner said.
GRAPH 1: ST. CLOUD MSA DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGE IN THE LABOR FORCE, 2009-2014 +1,517
120% 100% 80% 60%
+674 +460
40%
+348
-410
20% 0%
.3% White
115.8% Black or African American
31.1%
43.5%
Asian
Hispanic or Latino origin (of any race)
-.4% White alone, not Hispanic or Latino
GRAPH 2: PRIME AGE POPULATION PROJECTIONS, ST. CLOUD MSA, 2015-45 72000 71000 70000
Filling job vacancies King Banaian, dean of public affairs, SCSU, also highlighted the changing demographics in our area and encouraged employers to invest in our newest populations. An increasing share of our local workforce is foreign born, he said. In 2010 over eight percent of Minnesota’s workforce was born outside of the United States. “Every year, three percent of our workforce migrates to the St. Cloud area to find jobs,” Banaian said. “Of those, onethird come from abroad.” Employers are having trouble finding qualified workers, Banaian said. This trend continues into the future as the number of primeaged workers is projected to be at its highest over the next 30 years. (See graph 2.) “We need to figure out how to incorporate foreign born populations into our community,” Banaian emphasized. “We need to make use of the labor we have available right here, right now.”
69000 68000 67000 66000
2015
2020
2025
Why hire immigrant populations? Hiring foreign-born workers appears to be the easiest solution to our workforce problems, according to the panelists. Although communication and language barriers are said to be roadblocks, nearly 25 percent of local employers have not tried to hire a foreign born individual, Banaian said. Employers are missing out on this key working population. Yusuf Abdi, Lutheran Social Services, offered insight into our newest neighbors: refugees. Upon arrival in the United States, refugees receive a onetime check of $1,125 per person to cover housing, food and shelter, Abdi said. This money doesn’t go very far. They are also required to sign a travel
2030
2035
2040
2045
AGE 25-54
loan promising to pay back their airline ticket within three years of arriving in the U.S. Once they have their feet on the ground, refugees can relocate to other areas of the country. Minnesota is the number one destination for relocated refugees, Abdi said. Refugees come to Minnesota for work and because their family members who are already here feel safe and have found success. “Refugees are forced to leave their home country and reside in refugee camps for many, many years,” Abdi said. “They come here with very little or nothing and are very motivated to find work.” Whitney Bina is the communications and workforce development coordinator at the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce.
318.84*
$60M
$70M
$80M
December
$50M
November
September BUILDING PERMITS BY COMMUNITY
Home Sales C
2015 October
September
August
July
June
May
April
$40M
March
$30M
October April March
TOTAL:$21,401,318.84* $20M
February
January
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
Apr
Mar
Feb
Jan
TOTAL: $62,358,547
TOTAL:$64,832,866
6 COMMUNITIES - ST. C ST. AUGUSTA, ST. JOSE
Residential 2014 2015 2016* 2014 August #/$ #/$ #/$ February
St. Cloud
1209
1,151
271
July $26,145,498 $21,854,833 $7,251,107 2016 January 0
500
Sauk Rapids 447 321 102 June $19,206,069 $15,843,450 $5,591,800
$50M
$60M
$70M
$80M
January December Total as of 6/12/16. *2016 total is cumulative up-to-date.
500
$600k
6 COMMUNITIES - ST. CLOUD, SAUK RAPIDS, SARTELL, WAITE PARK, ST. AUGUSTA, ST. JOSEPH
BUILDING PERMITS BY COMMUNITY September
ST. CLOUD
1000
$900k
1500
St. Augusta 7 5 27 September $202,027 $871,000 $0 Mar
TOTAL: 257*
St. Joseph
TOTAL: 1655
TOTAL: $87,064,299.12*
TOTAL: 1429
TOTAL: $472,904.38*
2014
82 151 32 August Feb $3,783,078 $8,057,329 $9,135,687
July Total as of 6/12/16. *2016 Jan total is cumulative up-to-date.
2000
$1.5M
TOTAL: $1,333,423.25
TOTAL: $1,326,730.36
$1.2M
ST. CLOUD 84 140 40 October $7,151,019 $18,735,131 $16,748,875 Apr
Waite Park
$150M
Food and Bev
Sartell 30 35 10 November $3,600,047 $11,485,611 $2,624,177 May 2015
TOTAL: $79,916,621.69
$100M
Food and Be
Sauk Rapids 409 567 218 December $7,465,381 $16,890,519 $2,422,967 June
6 COMMUNITIES - ST. CLOUD, SAUK RAPIDS, SARTELL, WAITE PARK, ST. AUGUSTA, ST. JOSEPH
$50M
500
St. Cloud 397 444 171 2016 $57,715,070 $94,320,804 $56,132,593 July
Commercial Building Permits
$0M
0
Commercial 2014 2015 2016* August #/$ #/$ #/$
TOTAL: $150,360,393.19
2014
November October
TOTAL: $87,064,299.12*
2015
2014
St. Joseph 176 142 99 February $1,353,832 $2,293,565 $1,274,376
Commercial Building Permits
2016
100 79 35 $4,437,367 $4,720,246 $2,431,410
March
Home Sales Closed in St.Cloud
$40M
St. Augusta
6 COMMUNITIES - ST. CLOUD, SAUK RAPIDS, SARTELL, WAITE PARK, ST. AUGUSTA, ST. JOSEPH
$30M
2016
$20M
2015
Waite Park 116 113 29 April $1,803,560 $1,552,641 $607,260
0
$10M
Food and Beverage Tax Collection
$300k
$0M
ST. CLOUD
2014
2015
2016
2015
2014
$0
TOTAL: $62,358,547
2014
Sartell 291 329 89 May $8,129,708 $18,168,133 $4,245,356
2015
2016
Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
6 COMMUNITIES - ST. CLOUD, SAUK RAPIDS, SARTELL, WAITE PARK, ST. AUGUSTA, ST. JOSEPH
$10M
2016
July December June
November May
Residential Building Permits
$0M
832,866
COLOR KEY:
Compiled by Kellie Libert, data current as of 6/12/16.
2014 2016
6 COMMUNITIES - ST. C ST. AUGUSTA, ST. JOSE
Economy Central presented by August
TOTAL:$64,832,866 2015
Home Sales C
September
TOTAL:$21,401,318.84*
ECONOMIC INDICATORS & TRENDS 2016
October
$80M
$200M
6 COMMUNITIES - ST. CLOUD, SAUK RAPIDS, SARTELL, WAITE PARK, ST. AUGUSTA, ST. JOSEPH
358,547
0M
299.12*
,393.19
,621.69
Residential Building Permits
$200M
2016
$0
$300k
June
TOTAL: $150,360,393.19 Sources: Building departments for the following cities: St. Cloud, Sauk Rapids, Sartell, Waite Park, St. Augusta, and St. Joseph. 2015
May
2015
Non FarmMarJobs
Source: www.positivelyminnesota.com
2015-2016
2014
Apr
TOTAL: $79,916,621.69
Unemployment Rates
August
September
October
S
O
N
D
0.5%
December
July
A
Jan
November
June
1.0%
May
$200M
Feb
April
$150M
March
December
5%
November
$100M
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January
$50M
February
1.5%
January
6%
$0M
Source: www.positivelyminnesota.com 2014
2015-2016 % CHANGE
J
F
$0
$300k
0.0%
4%
-0.5% -1.0%
3%
-1.5% -2.0%
2% M
A
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
J
F
M
-2.5% M
A
M
J
J
St. Cloud Minneapolis/St. Paul Minnesota United States
M
St. Cloud, MN MetroSA Minnesota United States
J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6 //
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37
18.84*
BusinessTools
32,866
$80M
58,547
M
99.12*
93.19
21.69
$200M
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COLOR KEY: December
ECONOMIC INDICATORS & TRENDS
November
Home Sales Closed in St.Cloud
Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
December
October
December
November
October
August
September
August
July
June
May
TOTAL: 257*
April
September
ST. CLOUD
October
March
February
January
Food and Beverage Tax Collection
December
November
October
D, SAUK RAPIDS, SARTELL, WAITE PARK,
September
August
July
June
Apr
Mar
Feb
Jan
lding Permits
May
6 COMMUNITIES - ST. CLOUD, SAUK RAPIDS, SARTELL, WAITE PARK, November ST. AUGUSTA, ST. JOSEPH
September
2016
TOTAL: $472,904.38*
July
TOTAL: $87,064,299.12*
August July
TOTAL: 1655
June
2016
May
2015
TOTAL: $1,333,423.25
June
TOTAL: $150,360,393.19
April May
$600k
TOTAL: 72
BY THE NUMBERS December
Refugees November
1000
$900k
2015
TOTAL: 221
TOTAL: $1,333,423.25 200
250
Residential 2014 2015 2016* TOTAL: $1,326,730.36
Benton County Sheriff’s Civil Process; Stearn’s County Sheriff’s Office $0 $300k $600k $900k $1.2M Total as of 6/12/16. *2016 total is cumulative up-to-date.
Lodging Tax Dollars
Business Central Magazine // J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6
December
Number of refugees Minnesota accepts every year.
225 Number of new refugees St. Cloud accepts annually.
Source: Yusuf Abdi, Lutheran Social Services
Total as of 6/12/16. *2016 total is cumulative up-to-date.
38
November
$2M
October
$1.5M
2,300
September
$1M
Number of refugees who will never escape their war-torn countries.
Number of security clearances refugees must pass before they are relocated.
August
$500k
Sources: Tax Collections – City of St. Cloud
15 million
17
July
$0
June
2014
May
TOTAL: $1,454,373.86
April
2015
Number of individuals who are registered as refugees around the world. March
TOTAL: $1,508,301.02
January
20 million
February
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January
2016
TOTAL: $510,278.61*
$1.5M
January
ST. CLOUD
2000
$1.5M
Stearns Co. 168 181 56 2014 Benton Co. 53 54 16
TOTAL: 257*
2015 SHERIFF’S FORECLOSURE AUCTIONS
Number of refugees the United States takes in annually. That’s only .05 percent of registered refugees.
TOTAL: 1655
150
Number of years August refugees spend living in refugee camps July waiting for western June resettlement to May the United States, April Canada, or other Marchof the world areas thatFebruary offer opportunity. TOTAL: 1429
100
$1.5M
70,000
October
1500
50
TOTAL: $472,904.38*
TOTAL: $1,333,423.25
TOTAL: $1,326,730.36
$1.2M
0
$1.2M
15-20 September
TOTAL: $472,904.38*
2016 2014
$900k
Total as of 6/12/16. *2016 total is cumulative up-to-date.
Food and Beverage Tax Collection TOTAL: 235 ST. CLOUD
$600k
500
$300k
2016
$300k
Sources: Tax Collections – City of St. Cloud
Sheriff’s Foreclosure Auctions STEARNS AND BENTON COUNTIES
January
$0
Estate sources:$200M St. Cloud Area AssociationJan of Realtors, $100M Housing/Real $150M http://stcloudrealtors.com/pages/statistics. Total as of 6/12/16. *2016 total is cumulative up-to-date.
2014
Home Sales Closed in St.Cloud
2000
Feb
6 COMMUNITIES - ST. CLOUD, SAUK RAPIDS, SARTELL, WAITE PARK, ST. AUGUSTA, ST. JOSEPH
1500
TOTAL: $1,326,730.36
0
Food and Beverage Tax Collection
ST. CLOUD
$0
1000
2016
February Mar
500
2015
2014
Apr
TOTAL: $79,916,621.69
0
2015 March
2016
2015
2014
2014
TOTAL: 1429
Economy Central presented by
Paula Capes
Debra Grant
Jessica Bitz
Kendra Berger
Caryn Stadther
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The personal touch Family owned and proud of it, CWMF is reaping the rewards of putting customers first. BY GAIL IVERS / PHOTOS BY JOEL BUTKOWSKI BUTKOWSKI DIGITAL IMAGING
I
t’s not everyone who can say their business grew because of a government regulation. In 1988 the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a new rule regarding emissions from asphalt plants. There had been rules in the past, but now Minnesota had upped the requirements. A small job shop in Waite Park decided to try building one of these newly required baghouses. The result changed the company forever.
A Job Shop Loren Mick started Custom Welding and Metal Fabricating in 1968. It was a job shop, providing contract hauling, truck repair, welding, and custom fabrication services. A customer agreed to be Loren’s guinea pig on the new project. “They still have that
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baghouse today,” said current company President Carmie Mick, “and they’re still running it. And from there our business just flourished into all aspects of asphalt equipment manufacturing.” Loren’s children, Carmie, Brian, and Travis Mick, took over the business from their father in 2001. But they were not strangers to the company. Both Brian and Travis recall working in the shop from a young age. “I got started picking up tools after the old man,” Brian said. “He’d leave them lying around and I was at his side a lot from an early age – I suppose I’ve been working there since I was 12. We were kind of told that this is what we had to do.” “I was forced into the business,” Travis said. “Basically at age 13 that’s where I spent my summers. There wasn’t an option to go play with friends.”
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“There wasn’t a lot of playing going on when school was out,” Brian agreed. “The shop was our play ground. Whenever something needed to be done, that’s where we were.” By high school Travis knew working on the floor as a fabricator was not going to be his future. He attended the St. Cloud Technical and Community College for drafting. “I thought it would be a pathway for me to do something other than be a fabricator on the floor,” he said. And he was right. The knowledge he gained as a drafter for the business led him into sales, where he is now helping direct the company’s growth. “After I matured a little bit and got the chip off my shoulder, I realized there was a great opportunity here for me,” Travis said. “I love what I do today.” For Carmie Mick, the story is different. “I didn’t even know what my dad did,” she said. “I knew he had a business. I knew he made stuff. But that was about it. In high school my mom would say, ‘Let’s go
Business Profile CWMF Corporation 701 Julep Road, Waite Park, MN 56387 Phone: 320-251-1306 Fax: 320-251-3037 Email: carmie@cwmfcorp.com Web: www.cwmfcorp.com Company Officers: Carmie Mick, president; Travis Mick, sales manager; Brian Mick, production manager Ownership: 33.3%, each sibling Business Description: Asphalt plant equipment manufacturer Total number of employees: 34 2015 sales: $9 million 2016 projected sales: $10+ million, 2016 production expansion will allow double the current capacity Fun fact: The average age of all CWMF employees is 36.5 years old
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CWMF
Custom Welding and Metal Fabricating was started as a job shop in 1968. The company did everything from truck repair to contract hauling. In 1988 founder Loren J. Mick introduced the company’s first baghouse, known as the ‘Dust-Eater.’ This opened the door to what has become the company’s primary focus -- manufacturing asphalt plant equipment. Since then, the business has expanded its product line to encompass the full spectrum of asphalt production equipment, as well as custom fabrication of all types of industrial equipment — with an emphasis on large-scale capabilities. In 2015 owners Carmie, Brian and Travis Mick rebranded the company from Custom Welding and Metal Fabricating to CWMF. “We switched to just the letters so we could focus on the asphalt business,” according to Travis Mick. “People got confused thinking we were a custom fabrication shop for any kind of work. We wanted to change that image, and we feel that even in this short time, it’s been successful.” Today, CWMF’s asphalt and fabrication divisions represent what CWMF has become best known for — heavy-duty asphalt equipment and custom fabrication.
clean the shop.’ Whenever it was needed that’s what I did and I earned a little extra money.” Carmie headed off to college where she studied business and accounting. About two years into her degree, her dad asked her if she would consider working in the family business. “I think there were transitions going on in the company at the time and he needed the security of a family member taking over the office and the financial side of the business,” Carmie said. She agreed, but told him she needed to finish college. So in 1993 she began working at Custom Welding while finishing school. “I think I was on the seven year plan,” she said with a laugh.
A Personal Touch As their father eased into retirement, a succession plan evolved. The three siblings found that they naturally gravitated into their roles. Carmie, with her financial training, became company president. Brian’s extensive background in the shop made him a natural for running production. “I used to be on the floor cutting, welding and building the product,” he said. “Now it’s more about overseeing the jobs and making sure everyone’s getting the work done.”
Travis’ background in drafting made him the natural choice to work in sales. “Travis has been building relationships with big accounts,” Carmie said. “And we’re really starting to see the results of that work. We’ve been providing this personal touch with our customers and I really feel that once they’ve trusted us on a sale and we’ve delivered…we’re being rewarded and now the business is really coming in.” “We’re still a small enough business that we can have an intimate relationship with the customer,” Travis said. “They can reach me. Customers like an immediate response. We can be flexible. Flexible and responsive.” “I think people like that they can still talk to the owner of the company,” Brian said. “When customers need something, they’re talking to the owners and to the people who build it -- I may have put the weld on it! We’re willing to listen, we’re not just trying to throw a product out there. If something goes wrong, we’re going to stand by it.” All three of the Micks believe firmly in the critical role that their customer relationships play in the growth of the company. “I feel that the customer wants that relationship with us,” Carmie said. “They want to know we care, know they
THE DUSTEATER A baghouse is an air pollution control device that removes particulates out of air or gas released from commercial processes or combustion for electricity generation. They are commonly used to control emission of air pollutants in many industries, including asphalt manufacturers, power plants, steel mills, pharmaceutical and chemical producers, food manufacturers, and other industrial companies. Baghouses came into widespread use in the late 1970s after the invention of high-temperature fabrics (for use in the filter media) capable of withstanding temperatures over 350 °F. Baghouses typically have a particulate collection efficiency of 99% or better, even when particle size is very small. (Source: Wikipedia) In 1988 Loren Mick, owner of Custom Welding and Metal Fabricating, created a baghouse he called The Dusteater. This became the company’s signature product that moved them into the manufacture of equipment for the asphalt industry.
TOP: Loren Mick standing by the first baghouse BOTTOM: CWMF’s new asphalt drum and baghouse.
timeline 1968 Loren J. Mick starts Custom Welding and Metal Fabricating. The company focuses on truck repair and contract hauling. 1978 Custom Welding moves to their current location on Julep Road in Waite Park and begins offering custom fabrication services. 1984 Brian Mick starts working at Custom Welding, helping his father in the shop.
1988 Loren Mick builds the first “Dust-Eater” baghouse for use in the asphalt industry. 1993 Carmie Mick joins the company working in the office while finishing her college degree. 1994 Custom Welding expands their operation with new equipment, capabilities and multiple building additions. 1997 Travis Mick starts working at the company as a drafter.
1998 Brian takes over as shop foreman.
2011 Loren Mick passes away
2002 Loren Mick begins a success plan to turn the business over to his three children, Carmie, Brian, and Travis Mick; Carmie Mick takes over operations from her father as president of the company.
2012 Custom Welding builds a large scale 30’ x 120’ paint booth facility, vastly enhancing their in-house finishing capabilities; they also expand their production facility resulting in increased revenue.
2003 Travis takes over as sales estimator.
2014 Custom Welding adds a new office addition to house design, engineering and administration, improving project workflow and overall customer service.
2009 Carmie, Brian and Travis become full owners of Custom Welding; Loren retires.
2015 Custom Welding and Metal Fabricating officially changes its name to CWMF Corporation as the owners focus their manufacturing services on the asphalt industry. 2016 CWMF begins a 13,500 square foot expansion, nearly doubling their production space.
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“It can be difficult to have the patience to train new people, But experienced employees make everyone’s job easier. You have to realize that the employees make you what you are. As we grow, finding and keeping good people is key.” –t r av i s m i c k can call us and we’ll be here. I think that’s been our biggest advantage over our competition.” With growth, of course, come challenges. “We’re a family business,” Carmie said, “and I don’t want to lose that because we get too big. I want to provide that personal touch to the customer because it really makes a difference.” “I think the biggest challenge we have now is establishing a great corps of employees,” Travis said. Family members who grow up in the business often find it hard to let go of the hands-on work.
Sometimes because it was work they enjoyed, sometimes because teaching new people takes time and time is at a premium in a growing business. “It can be difficult to have the patience to train new people,” Travis said. “But experienced employees make everyone’s job easier. You have to realize that the employees make you what you are. As we grow, finding and keeping good people is key.”
A Growing Company Along with growth has come expansion. Since 1994, the company has expanded
operations with new equipment, capabilities and multiple building additions. In 2012, their most aggressive addition to-date included building a large scale 30’ x 120’ paint booth facility, vastly enhancing the company’s in-house finishing capabilities. The siblings agree that the paint booth helped spark a significant growth spurt in sales. Their most recent project was a 2014 expansion of their design, engineering and administration space, improving project workflow and overall customer service. On the docket for 2016 is an
personal Profiles TRAVIS MICK Age: 38
BRIAN KEITH MICK
sales manager/ vice president
president/operations
production manager
Hometown: Waite Park
Hometown: St. Cloud
Hometown: St Cloud
Education: AAS Degree in Mechanical Drafting
Education: Bachelor of Science Degree at St. Cloud State University, International Business major, emphasis in accounting
Education: High school
Work History: various entry level jobs prior to starting full time at CWMF Family: Wife Alysia, sons Logan, 16; Dylan, 10; and Noah, 6 Hobbies: outdoor activities, hunting, fishing, disc golf, running, and family road trips. Advice to a would-be entrepreneur: Do your market research. Understand the risks involved, as they often outnumber the rewards. Maintain balance in your professional and personal/family life. Employees are equally as important as your customers. Without your employees you are nothing. Best advice you’ve received and who gave it to you: It is cliché but....No risk, No reward. However my father explained it to me in a more direct and effective manner.
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CARMELA (CARMIE) MICK
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Age: 43
Work History: Tom Thumb during high school and college, then started at CWMF in 1993 Family: Significant other of eight years, Wally and his 2 wonderful boys, Luke (16) and Lane (13) Hobbies: Decorating, yard work/ gardening, SHOPPING! Advice to a would-be entrepreneur: Don’t be greedy. You need to nurture your business in order for it to grow. Be wise about the financials! Best advice you’ve received and who gave it to you: If you’re not growing, you’re dying. —Unknown
Age: 44
Work History: Started fulltime with CWMF in 1990, it was my first job and I’ve been here ever since. Family: Single; I have a black lab named Rebel Hobbies: Anything outdoors – hunting, fishing, riding motorcycle Advice to a would-be entrepreneur: Listen to your Father Best advice you’ve received and who gave it to you: My dad always said to succeed in life it takes hard work and dedication and be willing to take a chance!
LEFT TO RIGHT: Installing a new asphalt drum; Carmie Mick in the early years; A young Brian Mick (L) on a jobsite.
expansion of the manufacturing floor that will nearly double their capacity. “It’s gotten a lot bigger than I ever thought it would,” Brian said. “But I like the new challenges. You’re learning every day. There’s always something new going on.” “I love being a business owner,” Carmie declared. “It allows me to give back and provide for all the people we employ. I like seeing them grow and be happy. People are relying on us. It’s a very rewarding feeling when people are happy and they love to work in your business.” But there are down sides, too. Travis says his three young sons talk like they want to be in the business some day. “It scares me to death,” he said. “What we do is a burden. It’s a hard balance between personal and family life and you have to make some big sacrifices. At their age it’s cool and neat.” Travis has no plans to order his sons into the business at age 13. In fact, he says, they will have to work their way into it.
“If it’s something they’re interested in they need to go work for someone else,” he said. “If they find a calling to come back, that’s ok. But I don’t want them to think this is some silver spoon they’ll be feeding off of.”
A Family Business The three owners of CWMF have no intention of kicking-back and watching the business grow itself. “We’re blessed to have my dad set up the business like this, not too many people get the opportunity like we have,” said Brian. “But success isn’t just handed to people,” Carmie added. “This isn’t easy. It requires work and dedication to the business and to each other. We all have our dad’s drive to be successful and figure things out. I think that’s why we’re successful and why we’re growing.” “I guess I feel gratitude, knowing what our father started,” Travis said, “but we’ve taken it to a whole new level. We’re not just riding on his coattails, we’re making something out of it.”
For the siblings, the challenge of being ‘family owned’ has eased over the years. “When I was 22 I thought I knew it all. You’re young, immature, butt heads, argue, who’s right, who’s wrong – we don’t talk that way anymore. Though it’s probably taken us all 20 years to reach that point! Now we sit down and talk it out. Sure we disagree, but there’s no rage or anything like that.” “There’s always conflict,” Travis agreed. “You have to have thick enough skin to move forward, keep your focus and have the ultimate goal in mind. What I’m most proud of in this business is that we’ve accomplished everything we’ve done as a family.” “But that’s bittersweet, too,” Carmie said. “Probably the hardest part of this journey that we’re on is that our father isn’t here to see it. He passed away too early. But I think he would have been really proud.” Gail Ivers is the vice president of the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce and managing editor of Business Central Magazine.
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SPOTLIGHT: RICE REAL ESTATE SERVICES
RICE REAL ESTATE SERVICES Meets Market Demands with Full-Service Brokerage
commercial real estate industry. CCIM designees are recognized as leading experts in commercial investment real estate. “I’m excited to bring my commercial real estate knowledge and experience to Rice,” said O’Malley. Additional licensed agents will join the company in the near future.
A NATURAL PROGRESSION As one of few firms in Central Minnesota that offer true singlesource construction services, Rice has offered development services to its clients throughout its 60year history. Currently, Rice offers in-house architectural, construction management, skilled field crews, real
L to R: Chris Schuver, CFO, Chris Rice, CEO. Seated: Casey O’Malley, President.
R
ice Companies recently announced the formation of Rice Real Estate Services, a full-service commercial real estate brokerage specializing in commercial sales, leasing and development. This new entity will not only enhance service to Rice Companies’ current roster of clients, but will also act as an independent brokerage, representing both buyers and sellers. “We have been offering real estate development since our inception and recognize a need in this market for a commercial real estate brokerage that is focused on customer service,” said Chris Rice, president of Rice Companies. “We
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“ WE PLAN ON DOING THINGS A LITTLE DIFFERENTLY, HOWEVER, FOREGOING “BUSINESS AS USUAL” AND CONCENTRATING OUR EFFORTS ON PERSONALIZED SERVICE AND INDIVIDUALIZED ATTENTION.” – CHRIS RICE, PRESIDENT OF RICE COMPANIES. estate development and maintenance services. The addition of a full-service real estate brokerage seems like a natural fit, according to Chris Rice. “As we continue to grow and expand our services, we want to meet the needs of our clients while exceeding their expectations. Enhancing that service with full-service real estate is a natural progression for our business.”
plan on doing things a little differently, however, foregoing “business as usual” and concentrating our efforts on personalized service and individualized attention.” Casey O’Malley will be the primary broker/president. He has 8 years of commercial and industrial real estate experience, including working with international firms such as Geringhoff, Edmonton Trailer, AIM and
Walmart. O’Malley has called the St. Cloud area home all his life, attending high school in Sartell and graduating from St. John’s University. Additionally, O’Malley is a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designee, indicating he is completing advanced coursework in financial and market analysis, and has demonstrated extensive experience in the
Rice Real Estate Services 1019 Industrial Drive South Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 Phone: 320-257-5400
Business Description: Rice Real Estate Services is a full-service commercial real estate brokerage that specializes in commercial sales, leasing and development. Learn more at RiceProperties.com
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SPONSORED PROFILE
Spine Surgery Used Sparingly: How Local Surgeons Provide Successful Care Both In and Out of the OR. Back pain and spine-related discomfort affect an overwhelming portion of today’s population. And when self-medication and chiropractic therapy don’t help, specialized orthopedic care is next on the list. But what patients may not know is that doctor referrals aren’t needed, and surgery isn’t always prescribed. Though highly trained in top surgical techniques, many of the best spine surgeons are successful at treating patients using non-operative therapy. In our Central Minnesota region, St. Cloud Orthopedics—who has been serving the community in all areas of orthopedic care for more than 60 years—just expanded their spine center in the fall of 2015 with two additional spine specialists. They are experts in the areas of minimally-invasive surgical techniques, and their collective philosophy is to explore all non-operative options prior to surgery. “I like to make sure that when I’m doing surgery, I’m doing it for the right reasons, and that it really is the last choice for patients,” said Dr. Trevor McIver, MD, MS. “I don’t want to be rushing people to the operating room who may be able to get better short of surgery.” The Spine Center begins by assessing patients for issues that can be resolved with the use of medication, injections, or physical therapy. And since the clinic is fully staffed with a team of physical therapists, the spine surgeons can work directly with that team to formulate and monitor patient-specific treatment.
“I try to maximize all non-operative care prior to surgery. . . . We want to make sure every patient gets the proper care for them that addresses their issues, so they’re not being treated like a number in line.” Dr. Trevor McIver, MD, MS Spine Surgeon | St. Cloud Orthopedics
“We’ve found our clinic setting—complete with physical therapists on staff—to be extremely beneficial to the patient’s overall outcome,” noted Joel Shobe, MD. “The open communication and immediate fine-tuning of care plans is essential to full recovery at a safe yet fast pace.” When these alternatives prove to be either ineffective or inappropriate, that’s when the option of surgery finally comes into play. But not without discussion. “We are sure to keep patients actively involved in the decisionmaking process,” said Jason Kelly, MD. “It’s important to us that they understand when and why surgery is appropriate—if it ever is.” For those suffering acute or chronic back pain, the first step to feeling better is making that initial appointment. At St. Cloud Orthopedics, patients do not need the referral of a doctor or physician in order to be seen. For an appointment at their clinic with one of three spine specialists, call 320-259-4100. Learn more online at StCloudOrthopedics.com.
Spine Center • Knee & Shoulder • Joint Replacement • Sports Medicine • Hand Center • Trauma • Foot & Ankle • Physical & Occupational Therapy
St. Cloud Orthopedics has provided Central Minnesota with leading specialized care— including orthopedic surgery and physical therapy for all muscles, joints, and bones in the body—for more than 60 years. Dr. Jason P. Kelly, MD, Spine Surgeon
Dr. Trevor McIver, MD, MS, Spine Surgeon
Joel Shobe, MD Spine Surgeon
StCloudOrthopedics.com 320.259.4100 1901 Connecticut Ave S, Sartell
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SMART BUSINESS: MINNWEST BANK
MINNWEST BANK:
F
Setting the Standard for Residential Mortgage Lending
amily-owned Minnwest Bank was recently recognized by the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency for its work to ensure all Minnesotans have access to safe and affordable housing. Minnwest Bank received the Gold Award as a Top Producing Lender by exceeding lending standards and helping customers access funding through the Fix Up loan program. “We’re thrilled to be recognized as a Top Producing
Services, Business Banking products and Mortgage Banking. Minnwest Bank staff provides this robust menu of services along with the attentive, personal responsiveness one would expect from a personal banker. “We build long-term relationships with our customers based on respect and doing the right thing at the right time,” explains Margie Otten, AVP/Mortgage Loan Officer. “We’re accessible. Our customers are not vetted through
“ WE BUILD LONG-TERM RELATIONSHIPS WITH OUR CUSTOMERS BASED ON RESPECT AND DOING THE RIGHT THING AT THE RIGHT TIME.” – MARGIE OTTEN, AVP/MORTGAGE LOAN OFFICER
Margie Otten, AVP/Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS# 1489092
MINNWEST BANK 3130 2nd Street South St. Cloud, MN 56302 320-529-4801
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Lender by empowering our customers to improve their homes and their communities,” says Peggy Bruflat, VP/Sr Consumer Loan Officer. “From remodels and energy efficiency projects to our comprehensive mortgage lending portfolio, our number one goal is quality customer service.” As the second largest privately-held bank in Minnesota, Minnwest Bank serves businesses, individuals and families with comprehensive banking services from basic checking and savings to a full line of Treasury Management
a call center. When you call us, you get to talk to an actual mortgage lender—in person.” Customers appreciate the level of personal care as well as the local branch’s ability to make timely, responsive, on-site decisions. “There’s nothing more gratifying than helping someone when they need it most, to exceed their expectations by going the extra mile,” says Otten. “That’s how you make long-term relationships and continue to successfully serve long-term customers.”
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Learn more about Minnwest Bank at www.minnwestbank.com or Minnesota Housing and the Fix Up loan program at www.mnhousing.gov.
SPONSORED PROFILE
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Feature
Women
MeaN Business
Who can argue with a whopping trillion+ in receipts? By Heidi L. Everett
T
he state of women-owned businesses is strong— employing nearly 9 million people and generating receipts of $1.4 trillion nationwide. Of those sales, $224 billion come from businesses in which a woman is the owner and sole employee, according to the most recent data from National Women’s Business Council and U.S. Census. The growth of women-owned businesses is outpacing other small business development by one-and-a-half times, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. And women-owned businesses fuel other businesses. In fact, some woman-owned businesses in Central Minnesota hire 10 to 100 vendors and suppliers each month. Whatever the industry, women-owned businesses are forces to be reckoned with as they bolster economic vitality in this region and beyond.
Business Central Magazine reached out to three local women business owners to see what women bring to leadership, what challenges they’ve overcome, and what advice they have for women looking to start their own businesses.
a kitchen and bath resurfacing company, which she’s coowned with her husband, Russ, since 2000. Finally, she owns Financial Adventure, LLC, which helps kids and teens learn financial literacy and money management skills in a fun, rewarding way.
Meet the three 1 Kelly Zaske is marketing
strategist for Gaslight Creative, LLC, which she co-founded in 2009 with Jodie Pundsack. This award-winning, full-service creative agency employs 12 and offers branding, advertising, web development, digital marketing, and packaging. 2 Christine Panek has her hands in several businesses. Since 2004, she’s offered accounting, payroll, and accounting software consulting through Christine R. Panek, CPA. She also serves as CFO for All Surface Professionals, Inc.,
3 Krystal Vierkant has been owner and CEO of Rock On Companies since 2001. The business employs 65 people and includes Rock On Enterprises and Rock On Trucks, a trucking company and broker; Rock On Properties, which owns and manages real estate; Rock On Repair, a truck and trailer repair facility; Rock On Rocks, a wholesale aggregate rock supplier; and MN Tarp and Liner.
What women bring to the table All three business owners think women bring unique attributes to leadership, including a
different perspective and managing with heart. “Women tend to have different viewpoints on all aspects of the business than men do. Not that one or the other is better,” Panek said. “But it is important when owning your own business to make sure you are looking at all the opportunities and viewpoints available.” “Most women manage their businesses with heart. Yes, we have to look at the numbers, but that’s not what drives us,” Zaske said. “At Gaslight Creative, we have created a family-friendly environment. We know that if something isn’t right at home, our employees are not going to be giving us their best and sure are not going to be able to be creative. We offer a flexible schedule, so that employees can meet their kids at the bus stop or take their Grandma to lunch. We generally care about our employees and
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Feature customers, and connect with them on a personal level.” Vierkant echoed Zaske. “In the changing world we live in, we need leaders who can be stern and get things done,” she said, “but also caring and considerate of others’ feelings and issues in their lives.” Challenges they’ve overcome The challenges of owning and operating a business have been varied for these women. For Panek, her biggest challenges have been staying up-to-date with technology and maintaining an affordable service for each business. Financing was an obstacle for Zaske when she funded the start-up herself. “It was 2009 and
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banks were not lending money. I charged everything on a personal 12-month interest free credit card and paid it back,” she said. “Now everyone wants to lend us money, when we don’t need it.” While these have been challenges, they are not atypical. Instead, the challenge that can really get to at least two of these business owners is when gender plays a negative role in business relationships. “I think my biggest learning experience has been not to let people take advantage of me, which I do think is gender related,” Zaske said. “As women, we don’t want to have to go there. I have learned to explain the value of our work, but not
apologize for our prices, and to even fire clients who do try to take advantage of us.” For Vierkant, having a woman-owned business in a male-dominated industry put her in a Catch-22 with government regulations. “Some men would tell me that I was only getting the work because they needed to meet Disadvantaged Business Enterprise requirements as part of a job,” she said. “That would frustrate me as I didn’t want the work because I was a woman. I wanted the work because they knew my company could do the job well, at a fair price and on schedule. With time, that fixed itself.” Vierkant said that as she’s built relationships with contractors, the work has
continued because they know Rock On will get the job done. Advice for future women business owners Panek recommends that any woman thinking of owning her own business should make sure it’s a decision she is going to feel comfortable with now and in the future. “Don’t just look at what your life looks like at the moment,” she said. “Look into the future and where you may potentially be in the next few years.” She suggested considering the following questions: a Is there a need and a want for the business? b Is it a business you will remain passionate about?
c Will you still have the same amount of time to put into the business in the future as you do now? Another suggestion is to pass on your success. “Empower other women to join you, either as partners, employees, or vendors. And surround yourself with positive people, male and female,” Zaske said. “Running a business is one of the hardest things you can do, but it is rewarding. And it’s totally about the journey not the destination!” Finally, be open to change. “With each of my businesses, the focus has changed over the years and narrowed to be more specialized in certain areas while following the original passion that sparked the business to
start with,” Panek said. While some businesses become more specialized, others broaden. For example, Vierkant started with one truck to supplement her income, but that quickly grew. “Within a few months, truck owner-operators asked if we could find them work as well, so we started adding owneroperators and buying trailers as we got cash flow,” she said. “In 2005, we started adding company trucks and split the business into Rock On Enterprises, which owns the equipment, and Rock On Trucks, which is the brokerage side. Adding more trucks meant we had more repairs, which is why we started Rock On Repair and MN Tarp and Liner. It also meant
we needed to find more work, hence Rock On Rocks. Rock On Properties came from housing all of the equipment, and the rest is history.” Vierkant’s time and focus changed, too, as she struggled to “figure out how to be a good business owner and a good wife and mother.” By the time she had children, she had grown the business into something that needed her attention full-time. “I always felt guilty because I was either not focused on the business because I was spending time with the kids or I was putting the kids in front of the TV, so I could work,” Vierkant explained Ultimately, Vierkant found a daycare that shared her values,
which helped her create a flexible schedule that works for her business and her family. “I found out I can still be very involved in my kids’ lives, field trips, class volunteering, etc.,” she said. “It just takes a little more planning and flexibility as to when I work. Sometimes it’s a little during the day and a lot more when I get them to bed, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.” Heidi L. Everett, PhD, is owner of Watab Communications and adjunct professor of marketing communications at SCSU. She has more than 20 years experience in strategic and tactical communications and can be reached at watabcomm@gmail.com.
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2016 Women in Business Directory INTRODUCES YOU TO SOME OF THE WOMEN WHO ARE REDEFINING BUSINESS
Women work. They are firmly entrenched in the economy. In 2013, females comprised 51 percent of the U.S. population, over 159 million persons. The Bureau of Labor Statistics noted in its 2014 report that 57.7 percent of females were in the labor force in 2012, 70.9 percent of whom were working mothers with children under 18 years old. Thirty-eight percent of all women in the labor force had college degrees, and women accounted for 52 percent of all workers in management, professional, and related occupations.
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The Women’s Fund of the Central Minnesota Community Foundation congratulates 2016 ATHENA AWARD RECIPIENT
GB & Co. Hair-Skin-Spa is the most respected salon/spa in this area. The women at GB & Co. are a team striving together to be the best. They work in a business that respects their skills and are treated as professionals. ________________
LYNN GREWING
The choice is clear. Choose GB & Co. Hair-Skin-Spa.
CommunityGiving.org (320) 253-4380 | (877) 253-4380
80 37th Ave. S. (Across from Holiday Inn) 253-4832 • www.gbcosalonspa.com
Insurance for Daily Life Accident • Hospital Confinement Idemnity Short-Term Disability • Critical Illness Cancer • Dental • Vision and Life And more…
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1407 33rd St S, Ste 109 Saint Cloud, MN 56301 deborah_krump@us.aflac.com
An Independent Agent Representing Aflac.
WENDY HENDRICKS
COMMERCIAL CONSULTANT BUY | SELL | BUSINESS BROKERAGE
C: 320.293.6379 | O: 320.251.1177 | wendy@cbcorion.com | www.cbcorion.com J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6 //
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Special Focus SENIOR HEALTH & LIVING
Baby Boom!
I
t’s no secret. The Baby Boom generation continues trekking towards retirement, increasing the average age of the nation’s population. According to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), the Baby Boomers’ share of Minnesota’s labor force continues to drop from its peak of 57 percent in 1980 to about 30 percent in 2015. By 2025 Baby Boomers will make up only ten percent of the state’s labor force.
Marketing to aging consumers offers growth opportunities for local businesses. By Whitney Bina
The approaching increase in retirement aged individuals offers a huge opportunity for local businesses and organizations. “Older adults will soon outpace school-aged kids, and their allowances are better!” said Laura Hood, aging services director, Whitney Senior Center. “They are traveling, buying cars, going to the theatre, attending sporting events, and going to the movies.” For the older adult population, it’s all about the
experience, she continued. “We cannot underestimate what they are interested in.” Older adults are avid, lifelong learners who are Facebooking with their kids and Snapchatting with their grandkids. They are learning new languages, studying poetry, and staying up-to-date on foreign affairs and current events. Despite this growing population, only a few industries are taking advantage of these potential consumers. “Many local companies and organizations are missing the boat on marketing to the older adult community,” Hood said. “Marketing to this population will be very important moving forward.” A few area organizations have implemented programs targeted toward older adults. For instance, “At the Paramount Center for the Performing Arts, there is a great demand for afternoon programming, especially among the senior population,” according to Laurie Larson, director of performing arts at the center. Seven years ago, the Paramount created the Senior Matinee Series offering two weekday, mid-afternoon performances for its stage shows. Four hundred people attended the first year, many
BY THE NUMBERS
In 2015 Whitney Senior Center:
16,641
people served
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5,859
classes and events offered
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169,108 50,000
total visitors
meals served
of them older adults. With such popularity, the program continued to grow over the last few years and currently the theatre offers 15 Senior Matinee events throughout the year, Larson said. The Paramount also offers volunteer and social opportunities for aging populations. “Over 250 ushers, mostly seniors, are involved at the Paramount to help greet and seat theatre guests,” Bob Johnson, executive director, said. “Likewise, many of the volunteers in our gallery are older adult artists.” In addition, new outreaches allow the center to coordinate and offer art and education programs on-site at local nursing homes. Jane Oxton, education outreach director, Paramount Center for the Performing Arts, works closely with St. Benedict’s Senior Community to bring activities and programming directly to these senior housing facilities. Grant awards have also helped the Paramount expand its programming to Ridgeview Place Assisted Living, Country Manor, and The Good Shepherd Community. Coborn’s Inc. also works closely with older adults in the community. “A growing number of senior shoppers use our Coborn’s Delivers Program,” Rebecca Kurowski, communications manager, Coborn’s, said. Coborn’s Delivers allows individuals to call in or order their groceries online for delivery directly to their homes. Although there is no official senior program in place, many deliveries are taken
IT’S TIME TO START LOVING YOUR AGE! to area senior housing facilities and older adult residences, she said. The company also receives online orders from adult children ordering for their parents. “Delivery service helps keep seniors independent in their homes,” she continued. “We had a customer who lived in Waite Park and placed his order by phone every Tuesday. He always thanked us and told us the only reason he was allowed to stay in his house was because his family knew he was able to have food delivered right to him.” Aging individuals often find value in health and wellness programs outside of routine check-ups and health screenings. Local fitness communities and specialized healthcare facilities have seen an increase in older adult consumers.
Whether speaking about the campus in St. Cloud, Monticello or Sartell, our philosophy remains the same; offer independence and choices for vital aging. St. Benedict’s Senior Community St. Cloud 320-203-2747 Monticello 763-295-4051 centracare.com Chateau Waters Sartell 320-654-2352 chateauwaters.com
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Special Focus
“Our older adults have more money that they can now invest into their health,” according to Dr. Mark Roerick, Advantage Chiropractic. “Retiring populations are ready to enjoy the golden years. We can help them manage their aches and pains so they can do things they couldn’t do before.” “Many older adults visit us to learn how to eat properly and become educated on healthier food options,” Donna Roerick, nutritionist at Advantage Chiropractic, said. The St. Cloud Family YMCA offers a targeted class schedule for the Silver and Fit program designed for active older adults in the community. Silver and Fit is essentially an insurance initiative designed for active older adults, according to Jacob Kaduk, membership director at the St. Cloud Y. “Because over 300 members qualify for Silver and Fit, we have developed several classes designed specifically for our active older adults.” Classes include: Fit for Life, Gentle Yoga, Seniors in Motion, Arthritis Exercise, and Joints in Motion. Many classes are offered in the warm pool to help with joint movement. “The older adults are not afraid to let us know when the pool is a little colder than usual,” Kaduk said. “They can always tell when the water is even a degree or two cooler, so we try to keep it nice and warm for them.” In addition to exercise, the YMCA has become a hub for older adults to gather. “Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, social groups meet in the lobby to have coffee and catch up,” Kaduk said. “They grab the coffee pots, bring them right over to their favorite spot in the lobby and spend the morning socializing.” Moving into the next few years, more and more individuals will enter into retirement, Whitney’s Hood said. It will be crucial to serve individuals across all populations, including seniors. “Marketing your service offerings to the older adult population is very important,” she said. “How you treat these populations will be a direct reflection of your overall business.” Whitney Bina is the communications and workforce development coordinator at the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce. 56
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SENIOR HEALTH & LIVING
(l-r): Dr. Bennett W. Nelson, Dr. Anna C. Malikowski, Dr. Greg J. Friederichs and Dr. Burt W. Dubowa
About us:
Special Focus:
Senior Health & Living Continue reading to learn more about the variety of Senior Health & Living services available in Central Minnesota.
Our experienced eye doctors offer comprehensive vision examinations and specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide array of eye diseases, conditions, and problems. We use advanced diagnostic technology and vision correction products to care for our patients in the St. Cloud, Paynesville, and Becker communities.
Rapid Recovery & Aquatic Center houses 60 private patient suites, designed for short-term stay rehabilitation. With indoor access to shopping, restaurants, salon & spas, clinic, bank and Chapel.
Services:
At a glance:
Insight Eye Care • www.insighteyecare.us St. Cloud (Waite Park) 206 W Division Street 320-253-0365
About us:
Paynesville 204 Washburne Ave 320-243-3566
Becker 12390 Sherburne Ave 763-261-5444
Programs suited for every need. Including: Inpatient, outpatient, sub-acute, and in-home therapy.
At a glance: Rapid Recovery & Aquatic Center Phone: 320-253-1920 Website: www.rapidrecovery.me
About us:
We are a St. Cloud based commercial construction firm that has been in business for 47 years. Our greatest strength is our ability to take your vision and make it a reality. Through our development process we can assist you in selecting a site, hiring an architect, creating a concept, preparing all submittals for governmental reviews, creating a budget and schedule, assist in securing financing and building your dream. Let us help bring your ideas to life!
YOUR FOREMOST DESTINATION FOR TRANSITIONAL CARE. We believe the key to success is meeting a patient’s needs. It’s not just the amount of treatment, but the focus and quality of treatment that makes the difference. Know the difference when planning your short-term care – the choice is yours! SHORT STAY CARE SUITES THERAPY SERVICES
At a glance: Winkelman Building Corp 340 Hwy 10 S, St.Cloud, MN 56304
Contact: Mike Schoenecker
Visit centracare.com, click on locations, senior living.
320-654-2355
About us:
St. Cloud Hospital Breast Center offers a full range of services for women concerned with breast health. Breast cancers diagnosed at an early stage have a five-year survival rate of 97 percent. Digital mammograms can find early breast cancers and have the ability to discover a lump up to two years before it can be felt. Staff at the Breast Center work with your health care provider to provide timely results and guided support through each step of your care.
At a glance:
mikes@winkbuild.com • 320-253-2411
St. Cloud Hospital Breast Center
www.winkbuild.com
Phone: (320) 229-4919 Website:.centracare.com J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 6 //
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Business Spotlight
Creativity & Flexibility “Corporate America” wasn’t a fit for Gary Webber. Instead he found his niche in tourism, working with the best that communities have to offer. Personal Profile Gary Webber, 64 Hometown: Richfield, Minn. Education: Minnesota State University - Moorhead Previous work experience: Taught school in the late 1970s at the Area Learning Center, Tech and Apollo High School; worked in sales at Marco, Blocher (now Lamar) Advertising, and Thelen. Did several part time sales jobs, including Cloud Cartographics and North Star Publishing. Family: Wife Pat, works with Gary in the business; they have been married 37 years; two adult sons By Gail Ivers
Business Central: How did you get into the visitor guide business? ______________ Gary Webber: Jim Knoblach owned North Star Publishing, which produced the St. Cloud Visitors’ Guide. I’d been doing sales for him for about a year when he asked me if I wanted to buy the business. I did. About 24 hours later I found out Sioux Falls was interested in having a visitors’ guide and was I interested in doing that. And then a year later I was contacted by Thief River Falls. I was going to tell them no, but I drove up there and looked around and it’s a really vibrant community! So it all just kind of fell together. I did a guide in Albert Lea for about five years and one for Highway 75, what they call the “King of Trails” scenic byway, for four or five years. But it was just too much
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for one person. I wanted to have a life, so we decided on quality versus quantity. Now we just do St. Cloud, Sioux Falls, and Thief River. BC: Do people still want print? ______________ Webber: I thought we’d be dead in the water a few years ago – everything was about the Internet. But people still want to have something in their hands. It used to be that a visitors’ guide was the tool. Now it’s a tool and we’ve learned to adapt to that. BC: Is it hard to do sales when you don’t live in the community? ______________ Webber: We try to be real involved in the communities we’re in. I like to think I act as an extension of the convention and visitors bureau (CVB). Tourism is fun! If you’re part
of our visitors’ guides, you’re part of something bigger. The CVB can help your business. Tourism brings money to the community. Visitors – even every day guests – have a big economic impact on the area. These people buy food, they buy gas, they go shopping. BC: What has been your biggest challenge? ______________ Webber: Hmm. I don’t really have things that stop me. The print industry is changing all the time and we have to adapt. The publishing world is challenging. It’s a seasonal business so you need to spread cash out throughout the year, but every small business has that. There really isn’t anything. This is a fun job. I don’t think an 8 – 5 job would do it for me. But what I do now? I plan to do this for awhile yet.
Hobbies: Photography: “I shoot lots of the photos you see in the visitor’s guides.” Cross-Country skiing: “Winter is not a bad time for me.” Mountain biking: “I’m just getting started in this.”
At A Glance Think Tourism USA 2233 Roosevelt Rd, Suite 11 St. Cloud, MN 56301 320-281-5118 Fax: (320) 281-5119 gary@thinktourismusa.com thinktourismusa.com Business Description: Think Tourism USA, Inc. produces visitors guides for cities in the Upper Midwest; online and in print. Owners: Gary and Pat Webber Opened: 1995 Number of Employees: two fulltime, two part-time Joined the Chamber: 1996
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