When was the last time you thought about how you and your organization impact the community where you live and work? In this issue, we’re highlighting five men who are following their passions and doing what they love most each and every day. But even more so, they are taking the success of their businesses and giving back to the community. And at Eagan City Lifestyle, we thank you!
Keith Hittner
Keith started his career as a CPA, auditing banks and their mortgage files. He then became the owner of Minnehaha Falls Garden Centers, working with homeowners to beautify their family “castle.” This ultimately led him to find his calling in real estate, particularly in selling homes catering to the well-being of families. "I love home construction. I love real estate because it's where families raise their kids," Keith shares.
Keith's approach to real estate goes beyond the conventional. He sees the importance of creating spaces that shelter families and promote their health and wellness. In partnership with his wife, Sheila, he educates homebuyers on making eco-friendly decisions that enhance their quality of life. From choosing sustainable materials to integrating wellness, the Hittners are redefining what finding the perfect family home means.
Their passion for healthy living extends beyond real estate. Keith finds joy in barbequing, which leads to his successful Rack Shack Barbecue venture. Even after selling the business, Keith stays involved in the barbecue world, working to develop the distribution of their savory and sweet sauces.
Through initiatives like the Joy Collaborative and their work with Crescent Cove, they have significantly impacted families in need, especially those with special needs children and those navigating end-of-life care.
Through his work in real estate and beyond, Keith is not just selling homes. He and his wife nurture healthier, happier communities one family at a time.
Jayce Apelgren
Jayce Apelgren isn't just any dentist; he's a dedicated family man with an eye on bringing more smiles to the local community. Together with his wife, Katee, they run Apelgren Dental, but their story and mission stretch far beyond the walls of their clinic.
Jayce's journey into dentistry began with a childhood accident that led him to dream of becoming a dentist. He wanted to help people the way he was helped when he was young after a swimming incident left him with two chipped front teeth.
After graduating from the University of Minnesota dental school in 2015, Jayce worked hard to achieve his dream. But Jayce is on a mission to do more than fix teeth. He believes in "making people smile," and it's not just talk.
The team at Apelgren Dental actively engages in community events in Eagan and Prior Lake, participates in the Dakota County Chamber of Commerce, and volunteers for the Mission of Mercy and Give Kids a Smile, providing free dental care to those in need. He and the team even visit schools to teach children about oral health. “It helps kids become comfortable with the dentist early on,” he shared.
Through donations and volunteering, Jayce and Katee are more than dentists. Together, they're community leaders dedicated to bringing smiles to everyone.
Bryce Hill
Bryce Hill is a local chiropractor and the owner of ChiroWay Chiropractic in Eagan. Since moving from Grand Forks, North Dakota in 2018, he has embodied the Twin Cities lifestyle. His love for Minnesota sports doesn't hurt.
At ChiroWay, Bryce focuses on helping his clients manage the various stresses of life—be they physical, emotional, social, or chemical—through regular chiropractic care. His approach isn't just about treating symptoms but providing a proactive environment that supports the body's natural ability to heal itself. This philosophy extends beyond the clinic as Bryce and his team participate in community initiatives like partnering with Second Stork. This charity supports families in need with essential newborn care items.
"Chiropractic care isn’t about healing a sick body. It is about giving the body the proper environment to heal through a clear nervous system," Bryce says. His joy comes from witnessing progress and success in the daily lives and careers of his patients. He advocates the philosophy that "being proactive with your health is always better than reactive."
With ChiroWay's open, appointment-free system, Bryce ensures that all clients can receive care exactly when needed, making chiropractic care convenient and affordable. That’s right—no appointment is needed. If you need chiropractic care, all you need to do is drop by during office hours. You’ll surely leave feeling better than when you walked in the door.
Ian Smith
Ian Smith owns Omega Exteriors in Farmington. After working in nine states, he settled in Minnesota, seeking to launch a business that would benefit local homeowners. With seven years of experience and three years running his own business, Ian is now laser-focused on improving homes with new roofing, siding, windows, and gutters.
“We’re all about culture,” shared Ian. “While we want to make a buck, it doesn’t matter if we’re not a great place to work.” Omega Exteriors strongly emphasizes creating a positive workplace. Ian leads a team of about 40 people and ensures everyone enjoys their job and feels appreciated. “I enjoy seeing a project come together that we have been working on for days or weeks. It’s awesome to show a homeowner the before and after and know we’re contributing to making their home someplace they’ll love.”
Ian learned to work hard from a young age, starting with mowing lawns and later learning about sales when he was 16. His favorite part of his job is making old homes look new again.
Ian is also deeply involved in his community. This summer, his company will give free roofs to two families—focusing on veterans, single mothers, and other families who are unable to invest in a roof on their own; his goal is to give back to the community he has chosen as his home. In his spare time, Ian coaches wrestling at Hopkins High School and Cannon Falls High School.
Are you looking to make a difference in a homeowner’s life? Omega Exteriors is always looking to hire new people who are eager to learn and improve their skills.
Travis Sims
Are you a business owner in the Twin Cities? When was the last time you attended a networking event in the area? If it’s been a while, we have a great connection for you. Travis Sims is the founder and CEO of Accelerated Global Connections (AGC), a premier business networking agency in Minnesota.
With 19+ years in the networking industry, Travis has developed AGC into a community with over 700 members from businesses like big box stores and executives from smaller organizations such as mortgage agents, general contractors, and many more, all coming together to grow their businesses.
AGC is known for its red-carpet networking events, held seven times monthly. These high-class gatherings feature hors d'oeuvres, drinks, business card exchanges, and motivational speakers that inspire and enable meaningful connections.
Travis's commitment to community service is deeply integrated into AGC's operations. The organization regularly collaborates with local charities like Second Harvest Heartland and Toys for Tots. Occasionally, admittance fees to local events will be waived in exchange for contributions that will benefit these community organizations.
Travis ensures the first event is free for those new to AGC. And don’t worry about showing up and finding yourself sitting alone. The program is designed to ease newcomers into the community without pressure. AGC’s events are designed to ensure that everyone leaves with valuable new contacts scheduled in their calendar. AGC is community development at its finest.