03.2013 the active voice newsletter
DESCRIPTION
The Active Voice newsletter is a monthly publication that is distributed among the Portage County Business Council members.TRANSCRIPT
03.2013 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN
upcoming EVENTS \\
2013 Business | Consumer MarketPlaceMarch 4 - 8, 2013» RESERVE A BOOTH» GET VIP TICKETS» REGISTER FOR THE CORPRATE CULTURE PANEL & JOHN MCHUGH (03.04.13)» REGISTER FOR BRUCE MOORHOUSE (03.05.13)» REGISTER FOR SOCIAL MEDIA CONFERENCE (03.05.13)» REGISTER FOR JON STETSON (03.06.13)» REGISTER FOR THE JOB FAIR (03.07.13)» REGISTER FOR SARA LASCHEVER, SPEAKER (03.08.13)
American Ag Appreciation Banquet Monday, March 11, 2013 \\ 6:00 pm - 8:45 pmUW-Stevens Point, Dreyfus University Center – Alumni Room1015 Reserve Street | Stevens Point, WI 54481
» REGISTER
Small Business X-ChangeWednesday, March 13, 2013 \\ 7:30 am - 8:30 amPortage County Business Council, Foundation Room5501 Vern Holmes Drive | Stevens Point, WI 54482
» REGISTER
Business After HoursMonday, March 18, 2013 \\ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pmPacelli High School1301 Maria Drive | Stevens Point, WI 54481
» REGISTER
Women in BusinessThursday, March 21, 2013 \\ 11:15 am - 1:00 pmSentryWorld - Highcourt601 North Michigan Avenue | Stevens Point, WI 54481
» REGISTER
The 2013 Business l Consumer MarketPlace is almost here and it’s bigger & better than ever! The MarketPlace Committee has coordinated a line-up of programs and events that provides something for everyone. Find out for yourself - order your VIP Pass or event tickets now!
ONLY 150 VIP PASSES AVAILABLE!» CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS$20 / VIP Pass - PCBC Member $40 / VIP Pass - Prospective Member
As we close in on the week’s events and with limited VIP Passes available, the sooner you get your pass, the better. Purchasing a VIP Pass is the best $20 you’ll spend investing in yourself and your business. The pass is your admission to all the events including Monday evening, Tuesday morning, Wednesday evening and Friday morning.
CORPORATE CULTURE PANEL – BEST PRACTICES
» CLICK HERE FOR TICKETSMarch 4, 2013 \\ 5:00 pm - 6:15 pmUWSP, Dreyfus University Center - Laird Room
JOHN MCHUGH, KEYNOTE SPEAKER» CLICK HERE FOR TICKETSMarch 4, 2013 \\ 6:15 pm - 7:30 pmUWSP, Dreyfus University Center - Laird Room
BRUCE MOORHOUSE, AM KEYNOTE» CLICK HERE FOR TICKETSMarch 5, 2013 \\ 7:30 am - 9:00 amUWSP, Dreyfus University Center - Theater
SOCIAL MEDIA CONFERENCE» CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO & TO REGISTERMarch 5, 2013 \\ 9:30 am - 3:30 pmUWSP, Dreyfus University Center - Alumni Room
See MARKETPLACE/Page 3
BUSINESS | CONSUMER MARKETPLACE03.04.13 - 03.08.13
DO YOU TWEET?JOIN US AT THE EVENT BY
USING THE HASHTAG BELOW!
#pcbcMP
» REGISTER
ITINERARY \\6:00 pm - 7:00 pm \\ Social, Cash Bar,Complimentary Hors d’ oeuvres7:00 pm -8:15 pm \\ Dinner & Keynote Presentation with University Dining Service Catering and Kayla Kack, State FFA President
8:15 pm - 8:45 pm \\ Awards with Master of Ceremonies Charlie Thomas from NRG Media
UWSP - DUC, Alumni Room1015 Reserve Street, Stevens Point, WIParking Available in Lot R
Cost \\ $25 person
See AG BANQUET/Page 3
AMERICAN AG APPRECIATION BANQUET03.11.13 \\ 6:00 PM - 8:45 PM
UWSP - ALUMNI ROOM
THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER02
ABR Employment Services announced today it has been named to Inavero’s 2013 Best of Staffing™ lists of award winners. Presented in partnership with CareerBuilder, the fourth annual Best of Staffing lists provide the only statistically valid, objective, service quality benchmarks in the industry and reveal which staffing agencies are delivering exceptional service to their clients and the permanent and temporary employees for whom they find jobs. This year’s lists highlight a growing divide among the industry’s leaders and laggards, and identifies ABR Employment Services as one of the best staffing agencies for companies and job candidates to call when they are in need.
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Associated Builders and Contractors the Wisconsin Chapter has recognized the St. Paul Catholic Church of Mosinee with a Silver Award as a 2012 Project of Distinction for the Doors/Windows Glass specialty trades category. The glass work was done by Tri-City Glass & Door, Inc. of Appleton and included arches, circles, and half-moon shaped framing and glass. The architect was blue design group, llc of Hortonville and the general contractor
was Ellis Stone Construction Company of Stevens Point. The building has received the 2012 Associated General Contractors BUILD Wisconsin Award and the 2012 Wisconsin Masonry Alliance Excellence in Clay Award.
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TMA+Peritus (TMA+P), with offices in Wausau and Madison, hauled in eight ADDY® Awards in the competition sponsored by the American Advertising Federation Madison Chapter (AAF-Madison). Hundreds of entries were submitted from the Milwaukee and Madison markets for the national competition recognizing advertising excellence. Advertising experts from Chicago and St. Louis judged the competition.
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Unitel, Inc. is excited to introduce their new Administrative Assistant/Project Coordinator, Kathy Tonn. Prior to this position, Kathy worked primarily in the Real Estate industry for many years as a licensed appraiser, licensed salesperson and in an administrative role. Kathy is originally from the Chicago-land area but has called the Fox Cities her home for 25+ years.
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Kevin and Beth McBride of All American Cleaning & Restoration are excited to announce their conversion into a PuroClean Franchise. The McBride’s, now of PuroClean Restoration Professionals, offer the same quality services for water and fire restoration, and mold remediation services. They also continue to be the area’s top carpet and upholstery cleaning company.
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Pat Wesenberg, President of Central City Credit Union, has been named Chair of the Board of Directors for the Credit Union National Association, the trade association representing 95 million consumers who cooperatively own their financial institution.
In this role Pat will continue what has been decades of strong consumer advocacy; credit unions save their account holders upwards of $6.4 billion annually in the form of higher rates on savings accounts, lower rates on loans and lower and fewer fees for financial services.
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The Business Briefs column is an avenue to spotlight noteworthy business and professional accomplishments, recognition and awards among our Business Council members.Submit items of interest, in 100 words or less, to: [email protected] by the 24th of the month prior to the next newsletter issue.business BRIEFS \\
» REGISTER» MAP
HOST \\Pacelli High School1301 Maria DriveStevens Point, WI 54481
Enjoy complimentaryhor d’oeuvres, refreshments, and door prize giveaways. Tours of the facility will also be available.
No Cost to attend!
Pre-registration is appreciated. Please RSVP by Friday, March 15, 2013.\\\\\
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS03.18.13 \\ 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Be a part of our newsletter, byadvertising with us!
» CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
For questions, please contact Heather at 715-344-1940 or [email protected].\\\\\
advertise with US \\
CHECK OUT THIS MEMBER BENEFIT!Looking to meet - get to know - network - refer business – share leads and/or sales tips - build relationships - with other businesses? We invite you to attend one of our SalesNet luncheon meetings.
WHAT IS SALESNET?A sales-oriented group comprised of area sales professionals and business owners, meeting once a month to share referrals, leads and sales tips.
THE GOAL SalesNet is designed to provide a non-competitive atmosphere in which business relationships can develop into a referral network for the benefit of all members.
MEETINGS SalesNet luncheon meetings are held from 11:45 am to 1:00 pm on the third Thursday of the month (except March and December) at the Portage County Business Council office. Reservations in advance are required. At each meeting members should come prepared to share a sales tip or lead. Sales tips vary from a suggestion regarding successful phone sales tactics to a contact who may be interested in the products or services of a group member. Leads might comprise of a new business coming to town, an expansion or new ownership.
LUNCH A delicious lunch prepared by Rockman’s Catering is provided at your expense ($8.25).
QUESTIONS For more infomation, please contact Karen at 715-344-1940 or at [email protected].\\\\\
2012-13 PLATINUM PIE INVESTORSThank you to those who are supporting Partners in Education. Your support is greatly appreciated.\\\\\
02.2013 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN 03
SEEKING NOMINATIONS FOR FRIEND OFSMALL BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR AWARDS» REGISTER FOR THE SMALL BUSINESS BREAKFASTThe Portage County Business Council invites you to nominate a business or businessperson for one of the prestigious 2013 Awards. Nominations are being sought for the Friend of Small Business and Entrepreneur of the Year. Both awards will be presented at the Small Business Breakfast on Friday, May 3, 2013.
» CLICK HERE FOR THE FRIEND OF SMALL BUSINESS NOMINATION FORM » CLICK HERE FOR THE ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR NOMINATION FORM
Your nominations are due by Friday, March 8, 2013. Self nominations are encouraged.For more information on these awards, please contact Karen at 715-344-1940 or [email protected].\\\\\
From Page 1
JON STETSON, KEYNOTE ENTERTAINER» CLICK HERE FOR TICKETSMarch 6, 2013 \\ 4:30 pm - 5:30 pmSentryWorld Sports Complex
SCHMOOZA PALOOZA» CLICK HERE FOR TICKETSMarch 6, 2013 \\ 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm SentryWorld Sports Complex
JOB FAIR» CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFOMarch 7, 2013 \\ 10:00 am - 12:00 pmSentryWorld Tennis Courts 2, 4 & 6
BUSINESS EXPO» RESERVE A BOOTHMarch 7, 2013 \\ 12:00 pm - 5:00 pmSentryWorld Tennis Court 2, 4 & 6
KEYNOTE SPEAKER, SARA LASCHEVERMarch 8, 2013 \\ 10:00 am - 11:30 amUWSP, Dreyfus University Center - Alumni RoomCost: This event is free, but seats are limited and reservations required. If you purchase a VIP pass, your pass includes a ticket for Friday’s presentation. If you don’t have a VIP Pass, free tickets for this event can be reserved by calling Dorothy Snyder at 715-346-3861.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS \\
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From Page 1
PRESENTATION OF OUTSTANDING FFA SENIORS TO BE AWARDED TO \\• Mike Sankey – Amherst High School• Erin Wierzba – Rosholt High School• Kate Laskowski – Stevens Point Area Senior High School
AGRI-BUSINESS SCHOLARSHIPS TO BE AWARDED TO \\• Brian Hoffman, Amherst• Mike Sankey, Amherst
PRESENTATION OF OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO AGRICULTURE AWARD \\• Paul Clasen, Retiree of Rural Mutual Insurance
The Portage County Business Council is pleased to announce Ms. Kayla Hack as keynote speaker for the banquet. Her presentation will be “Growing Talents: Youth in Agriculture”. At the event Kayla will share her love of agriculture and the importance of the next generation of leaders.
Kayla Hack is a 2011 graduate from East Troy, Wisconsin. She served as Wisconsin FFA’s State Vice President in 2011-2012, covering the southeastern part of the state and traveling with her team. In June 2012, Kayla was re-elected to serve Wisconsin’s 19,000 FFA members as the State
FFA President and team leader. Her responsibilities include visiting schools, provide leadership workshops and presentations. In addition, she is an advocate for FFA and agricultural education in the media and government. State Officers travel approximately 280 days out of the year, for Kayla that will total 560 days plus on the road the last two years. In the fall Kayla will attend Dordt College in Sioux Center, Iowa for agricultural missions and agricultural education. Her hope is to teach in the US and overseas in a poor or developing country. She credits much of her personal growth to FFA and youth groups. Don’t miss this event where Kaya will enlighten all in attendance!
Business Council members and their guests are invited to attend the 2013 American Agriculture Appreciation Banquet. We will also recognize several individuals who have contributed to the success of agri-business in Portage County.
For questions contact Karen Schanock at 715-344-1940 or by email at [email protected].\\\\\
MARKETPLACE AG BANQUET
THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER04
Each month the Active Voice features a PCBC “Member of the Month” selected from a list of members that begins with the same letter of the alphabet. March features a business that begins with the letter “O”.member of the MONTH \\
OPPORTUNITY DEVELOPMENT CENTERS, INC. (ODC)1191 Huntington Ave. \\ Wisconsin Rapids, WI715-424-2712 \\ www.odcinc.com \\ [email protected] Date \\ 01.06.2003
WHAT THEY HAVE TO SAY \\Throughout all of Opportunity Development Centers’ 47 years of operation, we have been a “business with a mission”: to empower people with disabilities to achieve their work and life goals.
Partnering with businesses through the Business Council has been the key to ODC’s success in two ways:• By creating employment opportunities
within our facilities - ODC offers outsourcing services that complement business goals and create employment opportunities for the people we serve.
When businesses have project needs in packaging, assembly, bindery, mailing services, fulfillment, distribution, wood processing and more, they turn to ODC
because of our flexibility, responsiveness, quality, and customized solutions.
• By creating employment opportunities in the community - In 2012, a total of 131 businesses partnered with ODC to provide job opportunities for people with disabilities at their locations. We have candidates who can fill traditional part-time or full-time jobs; but more often, our people are looking for a job that is
just a few hours per week, where they are performing only certain critical parts of a traditional job description. When employers hire through ODC, they can count on our team to thoughtfully match the person’s skills to the employer’s needs. We provide job coaching and ongoing support for as long as needed to ensure the job is working out for both the employer and employee.
Businesses are vital partners in creating work opportunities both in our facilities and in the community, and the Business Council helps us make those connections. They have proven to be valuable in helping us stay connected – that’s why we continue to renew our membership each year.
Thank you to the Portage County Business Council for keeping the Central Wisconsin business community engaged and connected, and for giving us the opportunity to be “partners” in their mission. \\\\\
ABEL COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION LLC \\TYLER ABELPlover \\ 715-321-3149 \\ [email protected] \\ Join Date \\ 02.15.2013
HEARTLAND HOSPICE SERVICES \\SUZY CHICOINEStevens Point \\ 715-344-4541 \\ [email protected]/services/hospice.aspxJoin Date \\ 02.22.2013
KRISTIN’S RIVERWALK FOOD & SPIRITS \\KRISTIN MERTESStevens Point \\ 715-341-8178 \\[email protected]://kristinsriverwalk.com \\ Join Date \\ 02.25.2013
MIDSTATE INDEPENDENT LIVINGCONSULTANTS, INC. \\JENNY FASULAStevens Point \\ 715-343-7980 \\ [email protected] \\ Join Date \\ 02.01.2013
POINT INSURANCE AGENCY, LLC \\JOE MAYER, JR.Plover \\ 715-544-4665 \\ [email protected] \\ Join Date \\ 02.25.2013
T.D. FISCHER GROUP \\DAN SMITHWausau \\ 715-848-4104 \\ [email protected] \\ Join Date \\ 01.03.2013
ABOUTFounded in 1997, TD Fisher Group has grown to become one of the
nation’s leading display and exhibit design manufacturing companies.
We provide innovative, end-to-end display and exhibit solutions from
design conception to manufacturing; including the project coordination
to manage your project from start to finish, fulfillment services
including delivery, set up, installation, and toll-free customer service
during and after the project.
Our full-service solution includes 3D rendering, large format graphics
printing and laminating, interactive touch-screen kiosks, warehousing,
fulfillment programs, portable displays, screen printing and much more.
TARGET STORE \\JAIME MAYERStevens Point \\ 715-341-8790 \\ [email protected] \\ Join Date \\ 02.07.2013
THE LITTLE ONLINE MARKETING COMPANY \\KATY BAILEYNelsonville \\ 715-498-3471 \\ [email protected] Date \\ 02.01.2013
THE MCKENZIE GROUP, LLC \\KEN MCKENZIEStevens Point \\ 715-544-0189 \\ [email protected] Date \\ 02.12.2013
a bit aboutOUR NEWEST MEMBERS \\
ODC
03.2013 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN 05
» REGISTER
TOPICSOCIAL MEDIA POLICIES FOR THE ASTUTEEMPLOYER: MANAGING THE EXPLOSION!presented by Attorney, Brian G. Formella – Partner with the Anderson O’Brien Law Firm
SPONSOR \\
Whether it is Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or any other so-called social media e-forum, there is an explosion in the use of such sites within the
last 5 years. Public and private sector employers need to be aware of how recent federal rulings concerning an employer’s efforts to regulate social media usage by employees may be contrary to state or federal law.
At this X-Change participants will hear about these key points:> Why is it important for an employer to consider drafting a social media usage policy?> Federal & State laws that impact social media polices.> When is too much information about a job candidate “too much”?
ABOUT OUR SPEAKER \\Brian Formella graduated from Marquette University with B.A. degrees in English and Economics and from Marquette University Law School with honors. After graduating, he was a Law Clerk to Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Louis J. Ceci. His areas of practice include employment and labor law, municipal law, environmental law, real estate and general business law. Brian has a strong legal background in employment, labor and municipal law. He works with employers to establish sound employment practices. He has also aggressively defended employers against discrimination accusations.
> Continental Breakfast served> No cost to attend, the value of the information may be priceless!\\\\\
SMALL BUSINESS X-CHANGE03.13.13 \\ 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
PCBC - FOUNDATION ROOM
Brian Formella
THANK YOU FOR MAKING A DIFFERENCE
» REGISTER» CLICK HERE FOR REGISTRATION FORM
TOPICGENERATIONS IN THE WORKPLACEpresented by Casey Nick, Business Development Manager for Samuels Group | Environments
PRESENTING SPONSOR \\
ITINERARYRegistration & Networking \\ 11:15 amWelcome \\ 11:30 amLunch \\ 11:45 amGuest Speaker, Casey Nick \\ 12:15 pmDoor Prize Giveaways & Closing \\ 1:00 pm
COST \\$22 / person for PCBC Members$30 / person for Prospective PCBC Members
OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS EVENTSTHURSDAY, JUNE 27, 2013 Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention CenterPresenting Sponsor \\Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2013UWSP – Dreyfus University Center – Alumni Room Presenting Sponsor \\Arts Alliance of Portage County
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013Memories Wedding & Banquet Hall with Rockman’s CateringPresenting Sponsor \\Wisconsin Public Service Corporation\\\\\
WOMEN IN BUSINESS03.21.13 \\ 11:15 AM - 1:00 PM
SENTRYWORLD SPORTS CENTER - HIGHCOURT
Casey Nick
With the Job Fair and Business Expo just a week away, the 2013 Business l Consumer MarketPlace committee organized a day-long event on February 12 that included sessions on resume writing and mock interviews. The events, held at the Portage County Public Library, were free and open to the public.
Tim Solinger, owner of Great Impressions Resume Service, LLC conducted 2 sessions on resume writing as well as one-on-one resume critiques throughout the afternoon. At the same time, a host of volunteers spent time coaching individuals interested in improving their interview skills.
For some attendees, this was the first time in 20+ years they were drafting a resume and preparing to interview. Many noted their appreciation for the confidential one-on-one resume critiques and interview sessions as it gave them direction on where to start and suggestions for next steps.
On behalf of the Portage County Business Council and the 2013 Business l Consumer MarketPlace committee, thank you to the following individuals for volunteering their time to help others:
Anne Mathson \\ Manpower
Brandon Rathke \\ Northwestern Mutual
Dan Beighley \\ Wisconsin Public Service
Diane Weiler \\ North Central WI Workforce Development Board
Joe Swetich \\ Dermatology Associates of Wisconsin, S.C.
Michael Hillmer \\ Dermatology Associates of Wisconsin, S.C.
Nyra Lind \\ ABR Employment Services
Roz Clark \\ Stevens Point Area YMCA
Shannon Lewis \\ Lands’ End
Tim Solinger \\ Great Impressions Resume Service, LLC
See you at the Job Fair and Business Expo on March 7 at the SentryWorld Sports Complex.\\\\\
THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER06
INVESTING IN TECHNOLOGIES THATIMPROVE HEALTH & WELLNESS
When most people think of Delta Dental, they think “dental plans.” And, indeed, Delta Dental provides employers around the nation with dental
plans and assistance in administering their programs and reporting systems — in essence, helping employers improve efficiencies that ensure quality dental care.
But there’s much more to Delta Dental. According to Dr. Frederick Eichmiller, Vice President and Science Officer at Delta Dental of Wisconsin in Stevens Point, they’re leading the way in developing tools that leverage the power of regional health information exchanges - exchanges that have the potential to improve health and wellness programs and patient care.
» CLICK HERE TO READ MORE\\\\\
One MBA. Two paths. Professional or Executive. Thinking about getting your MBA? Discover UW Oshkosh’s accredited MBA Program paths:• Part-time Professional MBA• Saturday Executive MBA
Choose the path that fits your level of experience, career goals and time commitment.
Visit uwosh.edu/go/mba, call 920-424-3199 or call toll-free 800-633-1430.
Holly Brenner,BBA ‘98, MBA ‘09Director of Marketing &Business DevelopmentAgnesian HealthCare,Fond du Lac
professionals...where
emerge asleaders.
2013 POWER BREAKFAST EVENTSSPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES NOW AVAILABLE!AUGUST 27, 2013 & NOVEMBER 19, 2013An opportunity is available to Business Council members wishing to play a greater role in our POWER Breakfast Events.
Events will be held at Business Council member restaurant/site provider from 7:15 -9:00 am. Presenters will be individuals who have an impact on issues important to top-level business executives.
PRESENTING LEVEL SPONSORSHIP - $250• Recognition as the Presenting Sponsor of the Event (Only 1 Sponsor Per Event)• Display space with 8’ table at event• Company logo displayed on POWER Breakfast webpage (including a “link” to
company website) – prominent location• Opportunity to introduce keynote speaker• Company name and logo on all event marketing materials including registration flyer,
newsletter and event program• Recognition as the Presenting Sponsor on all emails to over 1300 member contacts• Registration list of attendees• 1 complimentary ticket to event• A company reserved table for preferential seating at POWER Breakfast event
Don’t miss out on this great opportunity at an affordable cost. Act Fast! To secure your sponsorship contact Karen at 715-344-1940 or [email protected].\\\\\
REALITY SHOP HELPSST. PETERS STUDENTSLEARN TO BALANCE A BUDGET!Reality Shop, a cooperative program between the PCBC Foundation and the schools in Portage County, helps students in both Middle School and High School learn the challenges of balancing a family’s monthly budget. At St. Peter’s, the students study potential careers and are given a salary based on their career choice. Then they ‘shop’ for all of the essentials necessary for a family and must create a balanced budget by living within their means. It’s a great opportunity for the students to learn the challenges and rewards of family finances. Special
thanks to Sandi Litchfield from St Peters who coordinated the activities at the school and to all of the parents and community
volunteers who helped make the day a success!\\\\\
BUSINESS XPANSION JOURNAL FEATURES PORTAGE COUNTY» CLICK HERE TO READ MOREPortage County is included in the March issue of Business Xpansion Journal: Wisconsin Reworks its Business Environment.\\\\\
QUALITY PLACESBY RACHEL DURAN
58www.bxjmag.com
>> On January 18, a federalcourt ruling upheld
Wisconsin’s Act 10, which repealed
most of the collective bargainingrights for most of the state’s public
employees. Parts of the act werestruck down, such as prohibitions
on government employers withhold-
ing union dues from paychecks. Also
struck down was the requirement of
labor unions to vote to recertifyannually.
Gov. Scott Walker said at the time of the ruling that the provisions
in the act were vital to “balancing
Wisconsin’s $3.6 billion budget deficit
without increasing taxes, without
massive public employee layoffs,
and without cuts to programs like
Medicaid. With this ruling behind
us, we can now focus on the next
state budget, which will invest inpriorities to move our state forward.”
One of Gov. Walker’s initiatives to
move the state’s economic develop-
ment climate forward has been the
creation of the Wisconsin Economic
Development Corp., which recently
completed its first year audit, says
Reed Hall, interim secretary and CEO,
WEDC. “We are driving business
success in Wisconsin and have docu-
mented more than $500 millioninvested in the state as far as thesupport we have given to state businesses.”The efforts by the state’s govern-
ment and business leadership are
supporting the path to meeting Gov. Walker’s lofty goal of creating
250,000 jobs in the state by 2015.
An important move in making the
path easier for businesses has been
the identification of more than 300
rule modifications in 218 adminis-
trative code chapters. Gov. Walker
highlighted the recommendations
by the Small Business RegulatoryReview Board during his State-of-
the-State Address on January 15. One area of focus for the Walker
Administration is to pass a mining
bill. “A mining bill will create thou-
sands of high-paying jobs immedi-
ately,” Hall says. Sand mining activities
take place in northern Wisconsin;
the sand is used in oil mining activi-
ties. A mining bill would shorten the
state’s regulatory period for reviews
without sacrificing environmental
concerns.In other initiatives, legislators will
consider an investment capital pro-
gram to support startup companies
and entrepreneurs. What’s more,
“The governor is working to improve
the state’s tax status,” Hall says.INDUSTRIES ANDINNOVATIONSThe agricultural and food process-
ing sectors are among Wisconsin’s
leading industry clusters. The indus-
tries play a major role in Wisconsin’s
efforts to boost its global presence.
“For the calendar year we just fin-
ished we had a record number of
exports; and our largest trading part-
ners are Canada, Mexico and China,”
Hall says. Wood products and agri-
culture product companies will be
among those attending a trade mis-
sion in April to China to create and
nurture business relationships.“We are an ag community, with
value-added ag and commodities;
and we are a sustainable county,” says
Sheila Nyberg, executive director,
Clark County Economic Development
Corp. A recent addition to the county’s
ag industry is Omega Valley Farmers
LLC, which is an effort of Heartland
Cooperative, which worked withresearcher Jerome Donohoe to develop
a line of natural Omega-3 products,
without the use of fish oil. Omega
Valley Farmers has begun the process
with dairy products, and will soon
move into other markets. The process
starts with animal feed, and then
follows a certification process. “Just
this one opportunity is leading to a
massive chain of opportunity forbusiness development and continued
growth,” of the county’s ag sector,
Nyberg says. The agribusinesses in Nyberg’s
county, located in central Wisconsin,
are also looking for ways to convert
ag-related waste to renewable energy.
“We are involved in taking wastestreams such as manure, forestrywaste, and whey permeate, and con-
verting them to energy and income
streams,” Nyberg says. Dairy and food producers in The
New North marketing region arealso eager to manage their wastestreams. “A large dairy operation can
produce thousands and thousands of
gallons of liquid manure, and there
are very few options for what they
can do to manage it,” says JerryMurphy, executive director, The New North Inc., which markets 18
counties in northeast Wisconsin.
“The traditional approach is to use
it as fertilizer and spread it across a
field, but there are limited acres to
apply that liquid manure.”Murphy suggests biodigesters have
become an alternative to managing
manure and/or waste. Food-grade
companies benefit by adding their
waste streams to manure because it
improves the efficiency of a digester
because it produces more gas.Recent activities in the region’s
biomass activities include the rela-
tionship between the University
of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and theViessmann company, which is based
in Germany, and is an international
leader in digester technologies. The
company introduced a dry biodigester
that the university owns and oper-
ates, Murphy says. The relationship
not only enhances core agribusiness
markets, but also positions the state’s
manufacturers to take a leadership
role.Portage County, located in central
Wisconsin is another community
WISCONSIN REWORKS ITS BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT
03.2013 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN 07
IT’S TIME FOR SOME BUSINESS ON THE GREEN» REGISTER FOR WISCONSIN RIVER GOLF CLUB» REGISTER FOR THE STEVENS POINT COUNTRY CLUBThe Ambassadors Club of the Portage County Business Council will be holding their annual golf outing, Business on the Green on Monday, June 3, 2013 at two highly rated Wisconsin courses—Stevens Point Country Club and the Wisconsin River Golf Club. With over 280 golfers participating and additional business representatives attending the 19th Hole Networking Event (after golf), the 2013 event will be a great environment to expand your contacts.
You have a great opportunity to be further involved in the event by taking advantage of a sponsorship! Don't miss out! Limited Sponsorships Remain! Here is how it works…
2013 SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIESDIAMOND LEVEL SOLD OUT Corporate sponsor of 19th Hole Networking EventSpecial Thanks to:
GOLD LEVEL - $800 (ONLY 4 REMAIN)Corporate sponsor of one hole at the golf event on one course with golfer passes• Company logo on 24”x 36” sign provided by Business
Council for hole on golf course• Company name on registration brochure & event
program• Two months of promotion in PCBC newsletter, The
Active Voice • Company logo displayed on Business on the Green
webpage (including a "link" to company website) • Company name on signs during the event at two
courses and at the 19th Hole Networking Event• Up to two lunches for those staffing the hole during
the outing• Four golfer passes at 18-hole event - your choice of
course – includes green fees, carts, 8 nonalcoholic beverage tickets and 4 lunches
• Four dinner tickets for 19th Hole Networking Event
GOLD LEVEL (2) - $400 Corporate Sponsor of one hole at the golf event on one
course – no golfer passes• Company logo on 24”x 36” sign provided by Business
Council for hole on golf course• Company name on registration brochure and event
program• Two months of promotion in Business Council
newsletter, The Active Voice • Company logo displayed on Business on the Green
webpage (including a "link" to company website) • Company name on signs during the event at two
courses and at the 19th Hole Networking Event
• Up to two lunches for those staffing the hole during the outing
• Two dinner tickets for 19th Hole Networking Event
BEVERAGE CART SPONSORS - $600 (ONLY 2 REMAIN)Corporate Sponsor of all beverage carts at two courses• Company logo on decals provided by Business Council
displayed on all beverage carts at two courses• Company name on all complimentary nonalcoholic
beverage tickets at two courses• Company name on registration brochure and event
program• Two months of promotion in Business Council
newsletter, The Active Voice • Company name listed on Business on the Green
webpage • Company name on signs during the event at two
courses and at the 19th Hole Networking Event• Two golfer passes at 18-hole event - includes green
fees, cart, 4 nonalcoholic beverage tickets and 2 lunches
• Two dinner tickets for 19th Hole Networking Event
LUNCH SPONSORS $600 (ONLY 3 REMAIN)Corporate Sponsor of Luncheon at two courses• Company logo on 24”x 36” sign provided by Business
Council for display at Snack Shops at two courses• Company logo advertised with each golfer lunch at
two courses• Company name on registration brochure & event program• 2 months of promotion in PCBC newsletter, The
Active Voice • Company name listed on Business on the Green
webpage • Company name on signs during the event at two
courses and at the 19th Hole Networking Event• Two golfer passes at 18-hole event - includes green
fees, cart, 4 nonalcoholic beverage tickets & 2 lunches• Two dinner tickets for 19th Hole Networking Event
EXCLUSIVE PUTTING CONTEST SPONSOR - $350 (ONLY 1 REMAINS)Corporate sponsor of Putting Contest on one course Sponsor will be responsible to staff the hole during
outing and provide prize valued at a minimum of $50• Company logo on 24”x 36” sign provided by Business
Council for putting hole on golf course• Company name on registration brochure and event
program• One month of promotion in Business Council
newsletter, The Active Voice • Company name listed on Business on the Green
webpage • Company name on signs during the event at two
courses and at the 19th Hole Networking Event• One lunch for person staffing the putting hole during
the outing• One dinner ticket for 19th Hole Networking Event
HOLE IN ONE SPONSORS SOLD OUTCorporate sponsor of Hole in One Contest on one course
HOLE EVENT PRIZE SPONSORS Corporate donation of prize(s) for special event games
on golf course(s)• Company name on signs during the event at 2 courses
and signage at the 19th Hole Networking Event• Verbal recognition at 19th Hole Networking Event • Buy one get one free golfer pass at 18-hole event if
product amount values $1,000 or more - includes green fees, cart, 4 nonalcoholic beverage tickets, 2 lunches & 2 dinner tickets for 19th Hole Networking Event
RAFFLE PRIZE SPONSORS Corporate donation of prize(s) for Business on the Green raffle• Company name displayed with donated raffle prize(s)
at the19th Hole Networking Event• Company name on raffle ticket (must meet print
deadline)• Company name on signs during the event at two
courses and at the 19th Hole Networking Event• Company name on event program if product amount
values $1,000 or more• Buy one get one free golfer pass at 18-hole event if
product amount values $1,000 or more - includes green fees, cart, 4 nonalcoholic beverage tickets, 2 lunches and 2 dinner tickets for 19th Hole Networking Event
This opportunity for sponsorship is on a first come, first served basis. To confirm your sponsorship, please contact Karen at 715-344-1940 or [email protected] by Friday, April 5, 2013. We appreciate your consideration and support of this event.
Foursome registrations are also available NOW! Due to limited space for single and double golfers, start planning your foursomes soon. Courses fill on a first-come-first-served basis. $120 \ person.\\\\\
LPC SESSION – 02.14.13On February 14th,Leadership Portage County participants learned about the concept of Leading from Within, Economic Development
and Utility Infrastructures. Bill Christiansen, the new Director of Foundation led the group through a day filled with speakers and activities. The session was held at the Wisconsin Public Service Building in Plover. Tom Zenner, from the Steven Point Police Dept. led the debriefing on the “ride along” program that many of the participants completed prior to the class. Wendy Mitch taught about Leadership and Self Deception and Bill Christiansen led some team building activities. After lunch, Richard Holden, Village of Plover Development Manager, shared his insight about the Crossroad Commons Development and Rene Daniels and Ali Konkol, from North Central Wisconsin Workforce Development Board, gave a presentation about the challenges and benefits of building a strong workforce in Central Wisconsin. Gary Oudenhoven from WPS wrapped up the day with his presentation on Utility Infrastructures and a tour of the WPS facility. Thank you to everyone who helped make the day a success!\\\\\
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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER08
March 201307 PCBC Office Closed for EXPO - 12:00 pm - 4:30 pm
14 Ambassador Meeting & Visits - 8:00 am, PCBC - Foundation Room
20 Executive Committee Meeting - 7:30 am , CliftonLarsonAllen LLP
21 SalesNet Meeting - 11:45 am, PCBC - Foundation Room
27 Board of Directors Meeting - 7:30 am, PCBC - Foundation Room
28 Ambassador Visits - 3:30 pm & 4:00 pm, Sites: TBA
meetings & other DATES \\
Executive BoardDavid McHone - President , Central WI Management Services, LLCSusan Placzek - President Elect, SentryWorld Sports CenterSue Wilcox - Vice President, United Way of Portage CountyJeff Peterson - Past President, CliftonLarsonAllen LLP Sue Wille - Treasurer, Ligman & Wille CPA LLCKen Erler - Member at Large, Sentry InsuranceKeith Pilger - Member at Large, Anderson O’BrienLori Dehlinger, Executive Director, Portage County Business Council, Inc.
Board of DirectorsTom Altmann - Altmann Construction CompanyDoug Ballweg - Delta Dental of WisconsinLisa Bourget - Travel Guard, Inc.Erik Carlson - Ellis Stone Construction CompanyKris Dragan - BMO Harris BankPatty Dreier - Portage County ExecutiveScott Glinski - SkywardAndrew Halverson - Mayor, City of Stevens PointO. Phillip Idsvoog - Portage County Board ChairLonnie Krogwold - Portage County Board Finance ChairDeb Marten - Marten MachiningRichard O’Sullivan - Mid-State Technical CollegeBernie Patterson - University of Wisconsin - Stevens PointJim Petersen - Marshfield ClinicDan Schlutter - Village of PloverLisa Sobczak - ABR Employment ServicesDawn Thrun - Ambassador Representative, International Bank of AmherstJoAnn Vosz - Community First BankAttila Weninger - Stevens Point Area Public SchoolsWard Wolff - First Weber Group RealtorsGary Wysocki - Paragon FarmsDave Worth - The Worth CompanyRobert Worth - Director Emeritus, The Worth Company
Board AdvisorsSara Brish - Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors BureauDan Mahoney - Village of PloverMichael Ostrowski - City of Stevens PointSteve Smith - Mid-State Technical College
2013 pcbc / foundation board of DIRECTORS \\
PCBC / Foundation StaffLori Dehlinger - Executive Director
Mary Jo Monday - Director of Member Relations
Karen Schanock - Director of Programs & Events
Bill Christiansen - Director of Foundation
Kari Thompson - Business & Office Operations Director
Heather Bailey - Administrative / Marketing Assistant
Email [email protected]
The Active VoiceDesign / Layout by:
Heather Bailey \\ [email protected]
P 715-344-1940 \\ F 715-344-4473
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PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL & FOUNDATION \\ 5501 VERN HOLMES DRIVE \\ STEVENS POINT, WI 54482
Purchasing Portage County gift certificates continues to be a successful way to “Buy Local”.
Portage County gift certificates makes great gifts. Gift certificates can be purchased at area banks, credit unions, the Convention and Visitors Bureau or at our office. They can be used at any business with a Portage County address and are available in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $25, $50 & $100.
The PCBC would like to thank everyone who participates for helping make the program successful. We would also like to thank BMO Harris Bank for their financial support of the gift certificate program.
BUY LOCAL
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