MARCH_NEWSLETTER

march 2018
WOMEN
IN BUSINESS
ANNE BUTZIER AND MORE
FEDERAL TAX REFORM
BANK MOGULS
MIKE DONOHUE AND JOE HEARN
WEIGH IN
Interior Design
TAKES OVER OUR AROUND THE BLOCK SECTION

2018
March
Table of Contents
2 UPCOMING EVENTS
3 Women in business
11 building blocks for success
13 Around the watercooler
15 Ribbon Cuttings
17 member news
On the cover: Anne Butzier,
owner of Namaste’
Athleisure Wear, is one of
our featured Women In
2
Business.
Visit us online at
www.dubuquechamber.com

2018
March
Business
YP Monthly Luncheon

Cover
Story
in
business
As many of you know, the month of
March is dedicated to all the achievements
made by women. The first women’s day took
place on February 28, 1909 in New York City.
From what was just one day, soon became to
one week, and in 1987 it was officially declared
to devote one full month for women called
Women’s History Month. Because of the
strides to recognize the achievements of
women, they have become leaders in business
and their communities. Dubuque
continues to have great women leaders in
the workforce. We’re happy to introduce just
a few to you.

Natalie Nieman
Jazzercise Dubuque
2095 Kerper Boulevard
Dubuque, IA 52001
(Satellite location at Courtside Sports Bar & Grill,
2095 Holliday Drive, Dubuque, IA 52002)
How long have you been in business? I have been a co-owner with Shelly
Rehfeldt for over 2 years
What led you to start the business you’re in?
I was a customer of Jazzercise for 2 years, then became an instructor for 13
years before taking the leap to a co-owner in January 2016.
What is the best part of owning your own business?
The best part of owning this business is the customers! I thoroughly enjoy
each and every one of them, especially knowing that they all love Jazzercise
just as much as I do!
What’s one leadership lesson you’ve learned in your career?
The one leadership lesson that I've learned is that if you treat
each customer with kindness, they will remember that. And,
that kindness builds loyalty.
In a male dominated workforce, how do you distinguish
yourself as a woman and as a business owner?
I distinguish myself as a woman and business owner
by the decisions that I make. The decisions are
based on how the customers will feel. Women
respond to emotional support. We are FAMILY at
Jazzercise and that's what sets us apart.

Cover
Story
Kristy Meyer
Carol Ann Boutique & Body
3337 Hillcrest Road Suite A
Dubuque, IA 52002
How long have you been in business? 2 months
What led you to start the business you’re in?
My sister, Lindsey Dohrer, co-owns our place. We have always wanted something of our own, to be our own boss,
and to help women feel better and look better. After our mom passed away we really felt the push to do this. We
named the store after her, in her honor. To continue her name sake, and to make her proud.
What is the best part of owning your own business?
Making our own decisions about how we want the business to go. Working for yourself is very empowering.
What’s one leadership lesson you’ve learned in your career?
Great customer service is KEY to success. Keeping customers happy, will keep them coming back.
In a male dominated workforce, how do you distinguish yourself as a woman and as a business owner?
Being genuine and real. Whenever you are yourself, people will see that and respond. Women are stronger than
they are given credit for!

Robin MacFarlane
That's My Dog! Inc.
5110 Wolff Rd
Dubuque, IA 52002
How long have you been in business? 20 years
What led you to start the business you’re in?
I saw a need in the community. I was working as a
Vet Tech and saw there was a lack of behavioral
resources for dog owners to turn to in our community.
That lead to a few years of doing it part time
(starting in ‘94) and then deciding to go all in and
open a training business in ‘98.
What is the best part of owning your own
business?
The ability to follow your heart and gut
and do what you believe is in the best
interest of your clients without the
need to work through red tape to
gain approval of superiors.
What’s one leadership lesson you’ve learned in
your career?
Make a decision and then go with it unabashedly
while remaining flexible enough to adapt on the fly
if needed. I believe adaptability is the key to thriving
if one chooses the life of an entrepreneur.
In a male dominated workforce, how do you
distinguish yourself as a woman and as a business
owner?
It took me a few years to give up "trying" to
compete in my arena. This is a very male
dominated industry in terms of acknowledgement
and financial compensation.
Once I stopped worrying about competing
and "proving myself" I put my head
down full bore into being the very best
I could be (which means continually
learning and challenging myself to
expand my comfort zones) everything
fell into place. Business took
off, my confidence to put myself
out there grew and the acknowledgement
followed.

Ann Butzier
Namaste’ Athleisure Wear
955 Washington St. #106
Dubuque, IA 52001
How long have you been in business?
2.5 years
What led you to start the business you’re in?
After extensive research it was evident there was a significant
athleisure trend in apparel which wasn’t being met locally and
only minimally regionally. In fact, it’s really not a trend, but
rather a lifestyle shift where consumers demand their clothing
to be functional, comfortable and stylish, and will allow you to
transition throughout your day. There are no boundaries…size
or age. There’s something for everyone. When I explored
location opportunities in the energetic Millwork District, I
wanted to be a part of that movement and knew it was time to
make it happen.
What is the best part of owning your own business?
There is great joy and personal satisfaction in developing your
own concept into a viable business. Although we all have our
own individual businesses, there is a great sense of community
within the Millwork District, and we are constantly looking for
ways to support each other and collectively help the entire
area to grow and thrive. Additionally, being a part of the
downtown community, especially the other retailers, and
serving local customers and visitors to Dubuque has been
extremely rewarding.
What’s one leadership lesson you’ve learned in your
career?
My leadership style has always focused on developing
those around you with the understanding we all
succeed together. Regardless of position or title, we all
have roles and unique gifts that need to be contributed
for the entire team to ultimately succeed in our goal of
providing exceptional care and service.
In a male dominated workforce, how do you
distinguish yourself as a woman and as a business
owner?
I tend to recognize an individual for their character,
personal strengths and drive regardless of gender. Since I
have opened my own business, I have been impressed by
the many talented men and women business owners
around me and believe we each have our own unique
strengths and perspectives.

Cover
Story
Jamie Becker
Dubuque Marina & Yardarm, Coconut Cove Resort and Whitetail Bluff Campground
How long have you been in business? 3 Years
What led you to start the business you’re in?
My husband Ryan and I have been in the recreational industry both personally and professionally since
we started dating 13 years ago (him since he was basically born!). During that time we became very close
friends with owners of the Dubuque Marina & Yardarm, which led them to offering the sale of their
business to us.
What is the best part of owning your own business?
I love to be creative. I am so lucky to be in a FUN industry. Every day I find myself working with our team
on “What’s the next fun thing we can do?” Everything I do is based around FUN. I want to bring happiness
to people’s lives and I think the businesses I am a part of do just that.
What’s one leadership lesson you’ve learned in your career?
I worked at the University of Dubuque for 8 years before making
my way to business ownership. The biggest take-a-way from
there was to appreciate your team. Get dirty with them when
you need to. Learn about your team. Make bonds with
them and appreciate who they are outside of work. Treat
them with respect and appreciate them as often as
possible. Teamwork makes the dream work.
In a male dominated workforce, how do you distinguish
yourself as a woman and as a business owner?
I have a take-charge personality due to being let down
in life personally here or there throughout my life. I
cannot allow myself to be looked over, not heard or
be walked on. This probably allows me to hang with
“the boys” a little more than some. I also employ and
do business with those who respect women. I insist
women are treated as equals and I will not settle
for any less.

Cover
Story
Women in
Amanda Waid
Full Circle Massage & Health
4655 Old Hwy Rd.
How long have you been in business?
5 1/2 years
What led you to start the business you’re in?
I wanted to be in the holistic health field again. I had gotten
away from it for many years and wanted to get back to what
I was passionate about.
What is the best part of owning your own business?
I love running my own business, setting my own prices,
hours, etc.
What’s one leadership lesson you’ve learned in your
career?
When you're the only one working in your business you
have only yourself to rely on, so you have no choice but to
take the lead.
In a male dominated workforce, how do you distinguish
yourself as a woman and as a business owner?
Having confidence is the biggest thing.

usiness
Lindsay Bauer
Board & Brush Creative Studio
How long have you been in business? Almost 9 months
What led you to start the business you’re in?
I attended a workshop myself and really enjoyed it. We had just
moved back to the Midwest and I had to give up my previous
job. The idea of starting my own business was intimidating,
but very exciting! I opened a studio west of Madison, WI,
and a year and a half later decided Dubuque would be a
great place to open another.
What is the best part of owning your own business?
I enjoy wearing many hats and having the freedom and
flexibility of making my own schedule. I love working
with people and I get to do that with both my staff and
customers in this business.
What’s one leadership lesson you’ve
learned in your career?
That sometimes it's okay to delegate!
Doing everything yourself isn't efficient or
always the best strategy. Surround yourself
with quality people that you trust
and delegating becomes easier.
In a male dominated workforce, how
do you distinguish yourself as a woman and
as a business owner?
I pride myself in focusing on our customer service. Our
business is built on people coming to have a great time
with friends and family, all while creating something
beautiful. I make it my mission to ensure they have a
great time and walk away loving their project.

gerhard’s
kitchen & bath store
2055 Holliday Drive, Dubuque, IA 52002
(563) 587-6891
Who started the company?
In the 1890s La Crosse, Wisconsin was a typical
American river town. Wild and woolly, La Crosse was
enjoying a booming prosperity; the market was
growing rapidly, and businesses were thriving. In
1897, three tradesmen, Reinie Wesson, Henry
Poehling and Ed Roesler, pooled their resources to
answer La Crosse’s need for a new wholesale
plumbing supplier. They opened the doors of their
new business in 1898 and La Crosse Plumbing
Supply Company was born.
How long have you been in business?
Since 1897. We celebrated 120 years in 2017.
Number of employees:
Our Kitchen & Bath Division employs 117 people; 4
in Dubuque and growing! If you have a background
in designs, or plumbing experience and cabinetry
sales, we are interested in talking to you. Apply on
Gerhardsstore.com.
Store Hours:
Monday-Wednesday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Thursday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
Friday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
What made you choose Dubuque as the location
for your business?
We have had a wholesale presence here for many
years and are entrenched in the community. We
are a 5th generation family owned company, the
great grandmother of our fifth generation hailed
from Dubuque therefore the roots are deep, and
we have an emotional connection to the community.
What does your business do and what need
does this meet in the community?
We make your kitchen & bath dreams come true.
We’ve been doing it for 120 years! Our job is to
take the pain out of the daunting remodeling
process. We are here to help!
Why is it important to your company to be a
Chamber member?
The Chamber has been a strong advocate for the
community in which we serve. We are a family
run business. We share the community values
and feel the chamber is an ideal resource for us.
Any additional comments?
Come see us, we are here to delight!

Interiors by...
design
4370 Dodge Street, Dubuque, IA 52003
(563) 583-8222
Who started the business?
David Tranel
How long have you been in business?
24 years
Number of employees:
5
What does your company do and what need does
this meet in the community?
Complete home interior design service, specializing
in unique products. Amish cabinetry and furniture
countertops, backsplash, flooring, Norwalk furniture,
Corsicana bedding and accessories.
Why is it important to your company to be Chamber
members?
To support the community and the Chamber
supports small businesses.
Hours of operation:
9 am-6 pm Monday-Friday
9 am-3 pm Saturday
Sunday by appointment

F
T
b
T
Mike Donohue
Regional President
U.S. Bank
Back on January 2nd, U.S. Bank announced investments in its employees, U.S. Bank Foundatio
strategic projects as a result of the tax reform package. Here are the decisions made:
• A special $1,000 bonus for nearly 60,000 employees
• Raising the minimum wage to $15 for all hourly employees
• A one-time $150 million contribution to the U.S. Bank Foundation
• Enhancements to employees’ health care offerings effective for the 2019 enroll
• Additional investment in strategic capital projects centered around customer ex
emphasis on digital and mobile capabilities.
We believe that tax reform is a positive for the U.S. economy because it provides an immediat
benefit our employees, our communities and our customers. We are proud of our people and
to our customers and communities. We felt it was important to reward their hard work and d
special bonus, the minimum wage increase and the health care enhancements. Our one-time
the U.S. Bank Foundation reflects a long-term expansion in our ability to invest in and revitaliz
for years to come. It is a privilege to make this beneficial contribution to our communities. Th
investments will enhance our customers’ experiences, position the company for long term gro
value for shareholders. The customer focused projects include payments technology, digital b
multi-cultural initiatives, back-office automation and brand building.

ederal Tax
reform
The Federal Tax Reform aims to spur economic growth across the United States by adjusting tax structures for small
businesses and corporations. Businesses are reinvesting in their employees and their companies. How is the Federal
Tax reform effecting your business?
Joe Hearn
President & CEO
Dupaco Credit Union
n and several
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edication with the
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e additional capital
wth and create
anking capabilities,
The federal tax reform did not reduce taxes paid by credit unions. This includes
sales, property, employer, and state of Iowa taxes on reserves. At the same time,
the comprehensive overhaul did reaffirm credit unions are fulfilling their public
mandate to:
1. Create a source of credit at a fair and reasonable rate of interest;
2. Encourage habits of thrift among its members; and
3. Provide an opportunity for its members to use and control their own money on a
democratic basis in order to improve their economic and social condition.
As a result, the U.S. Congress and the president-maintained credit unions' current
income tax status.
Because credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives, we provide members
higher rates on savings, lower rates on loans, and lower fees compared to
other profit-driven financial institutions. Whatever money we save or give back to
our members is a direct improvement in their family or business' bottom line.
While the new legislation's effects are still being realized, some members have told
us they've seen an increase in take-home pay.

Trendsetters Boutique
Location: 3430 Dodge St, Unit 25, Dubuque
Phone: (563) 581-8341
Website: https://shoptrendsetters.com/
Congratulations on the Ribbon Cutting for Trendsetters
Boutique! Here at Trendsetters they encourage their
customers to make their own fashion statements and set
their own standards for fashion by incorporating Trendsetters
pieces into their unique style! They offer children,
women and juniors clothing at exceptional prices.
Amperage Marketing & Fundraising
Location: 3280 St Ann Dr.
Phone: (319) 553-7321
Website: www.amperagefundraising.com/
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
celebrating Amperage Marketing
& Fundraising. Full-service,
marketing, communications and
fundraising agency with expertise
in manufacturing, healthcare,
higher education, nonprofit and
banking industries marketing,
fundraising.
-
Natural Touch Massage
Location: 3338 Center Grove Drive #210, Dubuque
Phone: (563) 690-1527 ext. 2223
Website: www.naturaltouchmassagedbq.com/
Natural Touch Massage is located in a peaceful and comfortable atmosphere.
Upon entering their building you will immediately feel relaxed and at ease. At
Natural Touch Massage, they promise you will receive one of the best massages
in the industry no matter what therapy you choose. Their focus is on you,
your level of comfort and your needs. Erin Donovan has been a licensed
massage therapist since July of 2005 and worked in different settings such as
fitness, chiropractic, acupuncture, salons, and alongside other massage
therapists.

Carol Ann Boutique
3337 Hillcrest Rd. STE A., Dubuque
(563) 585-1015
www.carolannboutiqueandbody.com/
Ribbon Cutting celebrating Carol
Ann Boutique and Body! Carol Ann
Boutique and Body is a shopping
and retail boutique
Mercy Home Medical Equipment
First Floor, Mercy Medical Center, 250 Mercy Dr., Dubuque
563-589-8118
www.mercydubuque.com/home-medical-equipment
Ribbon Cutting celebrating Mercy Home Medical Equipment Store. The
Mercy Home Care Store provides quality equipment and professional service
to satisfy your home care needs. Visit our new showroom, conveniently
located on the first floor of Mercy Medical Center – Dubuque.
Lice Clinics of America
Location: 3345 Hillcrest Rd., Dubuque
Phone: (563) 556-0755
Website: www.liceclinicsdubuque.com/
Congratulations on the Ribbon Cutting and Grand
Opening celebrating for Lice Clinics of America. They
provide effective head lice treatments, in a quality control
environment, with salon-styled and family-friendly
atmosphere. They get rid of lice and their eggs in one
easy treatment. Their FDA-cleared AirAlle technology is
recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics
because it works, guaranteed. This is a franchise that
started in 2014. There are currently over 300 clinics open
worldwide. Almost 200 Clinics in the US.
New Eagle Insurance
Location: 3250 Kennedy Circle, Suite #1, Dubuque
Phone: (563) 582-5834
Website: http://theneweaglegroup.com/
Congratulations to New Eagle Insurance on their
expansion! There are many exciting developments
happening at The New Eagle Group, and here are some
important news with you. Loyalty from their customers
has fueled their continued growth, making a move to a
new facility necessary. Although they are in the same
plaza, they have expanded their business to an additional
unit. Their new unit is now dedicated to their insurance
division. They are right beside Design Studio with the New
Eagle Insurance sign on the building. Their tax, realty,
property, and wealth management divisions will remain at
the current location right next to the Dollar General.

member
News
The Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to providing current and noteworthy
information of relevance to tri-state area businesses. If you would like more information on
any of the items in our news section, view our webpage at www.dubuquechamber.com/-
press-room/member-press-releases/
Mitch Bradley
SVP of Sales and Marketing
CARTEGRAPH DRIVES GROWTH WITH
NEW SVP OF SALES AND MARKETING
Cartegraph, a leader in high-performance government software and
services, has announced the appointment of Mitch Bradley as the company’s
senior vice president of sales and marketing. In this new role, Bradley
will drive new growth and strengthen client relationships by evolving the
company’s sales, marketing and partnership strategies.
“Mitch has an incredible passion for serving local and state government, and
we’re excited to have him join the Cartegraph team,” said Charlie Cumbaa,
Cartegraph interim CEO. “His experience in driving teamwork, creating
impactful strategies and fostering a positive culture of execution will greatly
enhance our growth and success in empowering communities to become
more effective, efficient and productive for their citizens.”
Bradley brings over 20 years of government operations, sales cycle and
technology implementation experience to the Cartegraph team. Before
Cartegraph Bradley served as vice president of sales and business development,
where he increased software bookings by 300 percent and earned a
Sales Executive of the Year award.
UnityPoint Health
Finley Health Foundation
Welcomes Grammy
and CMA Award Winner
Jo Dee Messina to play Gala
UnityPoint Health Finley Health Foundation
is pleased to announce Grammy
and CMA Award Winner Jo Dee Messina
will be the feature act for the annual
Miracles on the Mississippi Gala. The
gala is on Saturday, May 5, 2018 at the
Diamond Jo Casino.
Jo Dee Messina is a seasoned veteran in
the music industry with nine number
one hits, sixteen top 40 songs and has
sold more than five million albums
worldwide. Her breakout song “Heads
Carolina, Tails California” made her a
household name. Along with CMA,
Grammy and ACM Awards, Jo Dee
Messina was the first female in country
music history to celebrate three consecutive
multi-week, chart topping songs.
The event schedule includes the Miracles
on the Mississippi Gala program
with hors d’oeuvres and refreshments,
live auction, and Jo Dee Messina in
concert. To purchase tickets, contact
the Finley Health Foundation RSVP and
Ticket Line at (563) 557-2700 or email
finleyhealthfoundation@unitypoint.org.

Honkamp Krueger & HKP announce five new partners
Honkamp Krueger & Co., P.C. (HK) and its workforce
management affiliate, HK Payroll Services, Inc. (HKP),
have announced the addition of five new partners to
the firm effective January 1, 2018.
Ryan Burbach, CPA, has been made a
partner at HK. As a partner in decision
support services, Ryan works with
clients to develop a practical and effective
business advisory model, involving
data-driven decisions and the continuous
improvement of business processes. Ryan earned a
B.A. in accounting from Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa.
Nicole Gantz, has been made a partner at HK. As the
marketing partner, Nicole is responsible for
the marketing strategy and implementation
of innovative marketing solutions for
both HK and HKP. She also provides
marketing consulting to assist businesses
with their own marketing strategies and
initiatives. Nicole earned a B.S. in business administration
with a specialty in marketing from Marquette
University in Milwaukee, Wis. and an M.S. in management
from Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee,
Wis.
Sue Lawler, CPA, has been made a
partner at HK. As an audit partner, Sue is
responsible for overseeing audit team
members, planning and reviewing client
attestation engagements, presenting
financial statements and other reports
to clients, and researching new accounting
pronouncements and auditing standards. Sue
earned a B.A. in accounting from the University of
Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, Iowa.
Stacey May, has been made a partner at HKP. As
partner of the tax credit program, Stacey leads a
highly-knowledgeable, customer
service-focused team who actively
pursues several federal and state
employment tax credits for hundreds of
businesses coast-to-coast. Stacey earned
a B.S. in business administration with a
specialty in marketing from Marquette University in
Milwaukee, Wis.
Stephanie Mettille, CPA, has been made a partner of
HK. As a partner, Stephanie assists
businesses and individuals with tax
planning, tax preparation, and general
business consulting. She works with
clients in a wide variety of industries
including construction, real estate,
automobile dealerships and manufacturers
and has extensive experience with multi-state
businesses. Stephanie earned a B.A. in accounting
from Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa.
Do you have news ?
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from your business in Chamber @WORK? Submit
your news to the
Dubuque Area Chamber
at
office@dubuquechamber.com
and
include the word
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