CHAMBER
DECEMBER 2012 Volume 13, Issue 12
FOX CITIES
YEAR IN REVIEW www.foxcitieschamber.com
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this issue
Volume 13, Issue 12 | DECEMBER 2012
EVERY ISSUE
Fox Cities Board of Directors
3 President’s perspective Views from Chamber President/CEO Shannon Meyer Full
4 Chamber 411 11 new members 14 accolades, advancements, & announcements
Chairman of the Board Greg Bell, Woodward Communications, Inc. Chairman-Elect Kip Golden, Miron Construction Co., Inc. Past Chairman Linda Kennedy, Business Lending Group, Inc. Secretary/Treasurer Bruce Zak, JPMorgan Chase, N.A.
Year in Review – Economic Development; p 6
features
Corey Brumbaugh Miron Construction Co, Inc.
6 Economic Development
Kevin Eismann Epiphany Law, LLC
8 Advocacy, Government Affairs, Legislative Support
Daniel P. Ferris SECURA Insurance Companies
10 Pulse
Robyn Gruner AT&T
12 Leadership Fox Cities
Sharon Hulce Employment Resource Group, Inc.
17 Competitive Workforce
Dennis Jochman The Bechard Group
21 Events
Year in Review – Advocacy, Government Affairs, Legislative Support; p 8
Lyssa King Venus Jewel USA John Krause Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP
Highlights
Marty Lenss Outagamie County Regional Airport
13 Business of the Month
Vic Lutz McMahon
18 The Event
Bill Mann ThedaCare/Ingenuity First John Milanowski Innovative Machining, Inc. Bill Mundy West Corporation Robert Pedersen Goodwill NCW Jen Wagner Mauk Affinity Health System Monica Vomastic Landmark Staffing Resources, Inc.
The Event; p 18 Octoberfest Gives Back, page 14 Publisher: Shannon Meyer Full Editor: Melody Lane Buller Design: Coalesce, Inc. Printing: Northeast Wisconsin Printing Co. Advertising Sales: Susan Vanden Heuvel, 920-734-7101
Fox Cities Chamber Business (v 259180). Published monthly by the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and Industry, 125 N. Superior Street, Appleton, WI 54911. PH 920-734-7101. WEB www.foxcitieschamber.com. Periodical postage paid at Appleton, WI. Annual subscription fee to members for Fox Cities Chamber Business is $9 and is included in dues. Publisher: Shannon Meyer Full. Editor: Melody Lane Buller. Design: Coalesce Inc. Printing: Northeast Wisconsin Printing Co. Advertising Sales: Susan Vanden Heuvel, 920-734-7101. Postmaster: Send address changes to: Fox Cities Chamber Business, PO Box 1855, Appleton, WI 54912-1855.
president’s perspective Welcome to our Year in Review issue. Your Chamber of Commerce and Industry is the 3rd largest in Wisconsin and represents over 1,300 member companies that employ over 80,000 people and are supported by over 1,200 volunteers. We offer over 25 monthly opportunities to engage and grow your business. We provide Access to opportunities to be heard by elected officials in that the Chamber acts as an advocate for businesses both large and small. Connections – to key leadership in other businesses who have similar issues and challenges. Solutions to grow your business – allowing you to grow and keep focused on your business due to anti-legislative aspects that prevent business from moving forward. Being good stewards of your investment, we are accountable to you and we are indeed Making a Difference. So… how you might ask? Throughout the pages of this issue, we have chronicled some of the successes of the past year. A significant initiative this year was the creation of our economic development program. Partnering with local businesses, local municipalities and with local collaboration, The Economic Development Corporation is moving forward to develop new jobs, new opportunities for expansion and a climate that fosters entrepreneurial creation. Our Octoberfest program which is designed to support our local non-profits gave over $70,000 in donations this year helping maintain these institutions responsible for our legendary quality of care.
SHANNON MEYER FULL PRESIDENT/CEO
Being good stewards of your investment, we are accountable to you and we are indeed Making a Difference.
Continued on page 20
Let the images speak for themselves
www.craigaugustinephoto.com P. 920.810.2616
Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
3
year in review
chamber 411 Chamber Basics: • Represents over 1,300 member companies, employing over 80,000 people • 3rd largest Chamber in Wisconsin • Provide Access, Connections and Solutions to business leaders • Mission – Grow the business community and local economy • 25+ opportunities for engagement and business growth every month • Partnered with 400+ companies to produce 150+ high quality programs for our members • 1200+ volunteers participated in chamber activities throughout the year • Important issues/initiatives: workforce, education, legislative support, professional development, business connections, economic development, young professional network
...where
professionals emerge as
leaders.
One MBA, two paths: Professional or Executive. MBA Information Sesions: Nov. 6 Fond du Lac Nov. 13 Oshkosh Nov. 14 Appleton Nov. 19 Green Bay Sessions begin at 6 p.m. Visit uwosh.edu/go/mba or call 920-424-3199 or toll-free 800-633-1430. Holly Brenner, BBA ‘98, MBA ‘09 Director of Marketing & Business Development Agnesian HealthCare, Fond du Lac 4
Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
Unveiling . . . our continued commitment supporting activities that enrich the Fox Cities community.
At Baker Tilly, we're proud to support the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and businesses in our community. Helping businesses evolve and thrive is what we do. It’s just one way we can help keep our community vibrant and strong. Connect with us: bakertilly.com
Š 2012 Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP Baker Tilly refers to Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP, an independently owned and managed member of Baker Tilly International.
year in review
economic development
cked logo
• Formed Fox Cities Economic Development Council, division of the Chamber early in 2012 • Mission: Expansion of existing industries and attraction of new companies to the region – proactively and aggressively compete in global marketplace • Established goal of supporting the creation of 1,200 new primary jobs during 2013—2017 • Created “Ignite Fox Cities” as campaign name to support the EDC • Securing funding commitments from public and private-sector, goal $800,000-$1 million • Benchmark trip to Metro Denver EDC with delegation of 12 public and private sector leaders
6
Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
. g i B m Drea ! y l l a c o L r e n t Par When Jacobs Meat Market looked for a financial partner, they found it in Community First. Who better to understand your locally-owned business, than a locally-owned credit union!
“Working with ho local people w nd ersta know and und key.” my business is Luke Jacobs t & ke co Ja bs Meat Marwner CFCU Member/O
In fact, Luke says, “We’re a local business and I like dealing with a local financial partner. Whether on the phone or in person, I’m always greeted with personalized service with a smile!”
When you’re ready for a local financial partner for your big dreams, contact Community First for: • Local Lending Decisions • Business Checking that Pays Dividends • SBA Preferred & SBA Express Lender • 401(k), SEP & SIMPLE Planning • Merchant Credit Card Services • Investment and Insurance Services • Free 24-Hour Online Account Access
Visit any of our 19 Convenient Locations APPLETON NEW LONDON NEENAH OSHKOSH NICHOLS DE PERE DARBOY MANITOWOC HOWARD GREENVILLE WAUPACA FOX VALLEY TECHNICAL COLLEGE: Appleton Campus
www.communityfirstcu.com (920) 830-7200 or Toll-Free 1-866-273-2328
year in review
advocacy – government affairs – legislative support • Led business leaders on Annual Chamber Washington Fly-In with US Chamber Small Business Summit • Provided business leaders access and connections to federal and state legislators and the Governor throughout the year • Lobbied on behalf of business leaders on critical issues – regulation, transportation, workforce, incentives • Actively worked on over 40 bills to enhance business climate in the region • Collaborated with 5 other chambers in the Northeast Wisconsin Chambers Coalition (NEWCC) to create Pro-Business Legislative Agenda • Provided access and connections quarterly with area elected officials and business leaders
Buried
in requests for donations from your company? We can help you: l l
l
Focus your giving. Effectively evaluate donation requests. Maximize your community impact.
(920) 830-1290 cffoxvalley.org
8
Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
What does
financial
security
mean to you?
Financial security is having the money you need at all stages of life. With Modern Woodmen of America, we can provide financial solutions to help you achieve it. Call us – let’s talk about your plan for life.
Rick Parks* FICF LUTCF, CFFM 39 Park Pl., Ste. 200 Appleton, WI 54914 920-574-2205 Richard.D.Parks@ mwarep.org
Paul Schiefer, FICF 1159 W. Cecil St. Neenah, WI 54956 920-268-2463 Paul.H.Schiefer@ mwarep.org
Christine Maurer* FIC 433 E. Mill St. Plymouth, WI 53073 920-838-2950 Christine.A.Maurer@ mwarep.org
Michael Mayan 103 Knoll Ct. Rosendale, WI 54974 920-979-2667 Michael.Mayan@ mwarep.org
Steve Moore* FICF LUTCF, ChFC 681 Baeten Rd., Box A4 Green Bay, WI 54304 920-884-1948 Steven.J.Moore@ mwarep.org
Doug Olm* FICF, LUTCF 13026 Thunder Hollow Ln. Whitelaw, WI 54247 920-732-4312 Douglas.M.Olm@ mwarep.org
Dave Parker* FICF, LUTCF 200 Ledgewood Dr. Fond Du Lac, WI 54937 920-922-5135 David.W.Parker@ mwarep.org
Chris Pedersen 983 Birch Tree Ln. Fond Du Lac, WI 54935 920-904-1964 Christian.H.Pedersen@ mwarep.org
Chris Wenzel PO Box 930 Neenah, WI 54956 920-540-6924 Chris.L.Wenzel@ mwarep.org
Michael Wittig* FIC, CLU, ChFC 724 Claggett Ave. Waupun, WI 53963 920-345-1440 Michael.Wittig@ mwarep.org
*Registered representative. Securities offered through MWA Financial Services Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Modern Woodmen of America.
Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
9
year in review
pulse – young professionals network
• Engaged over 730 local young professionals • Coordinated 16 different events to provide professional development, social, cultural and community engagement opportunities for young talent • Matched 15 young professionals and 15 leaders from business and industry via Mentor Match • Recognized 15 dynamic young professionals for the 2012 Future 15 awards • Leveraged the power of over 75 young professional volunteers to plan events, market programs, and recruit new members
10
Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
new members We welcome new members to the Chamber Best Western Fox Valley Inn
Ms. Christy Hutkowski 3033 W. College Avenue Appleton, WI 54914-2998 (920) 731-4141 Sponsor: Dennis Jochman HOTELS/MOTELS www.bwfoxvalleyinn.com
Cultivate: Business Growth Series was designed to give business leaders and entrepreneurs tactical, practical tips they can implement in their businesses immediately. Each event will have a variety of breakout sessions highlighting new and widespread business topics. The topics will follow four main tracks: Strategic Planning, Finance & Technology, Sales & Marketing and Performance Management. The event is designed to address “pain” points of three target audiences; business owners/top executives, middle management and operations.
iSupply LLC
Mr. Sam Warpinski 4301 W. Wisconsin Avenue #806 Appleton, WI 54913-8605 (920) 497-2815 Sponsor: Wendy Townsend Ipad,Iphone,Ipod Repair, Sales and Service www.theisupply.org
Landfill Reduction and Recycling Mr. Jason J. Salisbury 3001 E. Glendale Avenue Appleton, WI 54911-8696 (920) 319-8118 Sponsor: Dennis Jochman RECYCLING www.landfillreduction.com
Seth Mattison
January 10, 2013 7:30 am – 12:00 pm Holiday Inn Neenah Riverwalk
Maurices – 2133
Ms. Chastity Neal 1135 W Winneconne Avenue Neenah, WI 54956-3693 (920) 729-4826 APPAREL - WOMEN’S www.maurices.com
Seth Mattison is an internationally renowned expert in workforce trends and his generation—the Millennials. His presentations focus on the divide between younger and older generations and how bridging the gaps can infuse new ideas and energy into organizations everywhere.
TSYS Merchant Solutions
To learn more visit our website Neenah Riverwalk
www.CultivateEvent.com
Ms. Dawn Doucette 101 S. Military Avenue #134 Green Bay, WI 54303-2409 (920) 288-7065 Sponsor: Ken Kriegel & Jessica Walters CREDIT & DEBIT CARD PROCESSING & ATM’S www.tsysmerchantsolutions.com
Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
11
year in review
leadership fox cities • Traditional Leadership Fox Cities u Provided access and connections through community leadership program with 35+ business leaders participating in annual program
Program has been in existence since 1991
u
u 800+ graduates of the program u Provide solutions to our non-profit community with 130+ community projects executed as part of the class requirements
u Provide community with dedicated, committed volunteers to sit on local non-profit and municipal boards and committees • Youth Leadership Fox Cities u Designed a program for youth based on traditional program to help solve the challenge of retaining local talent here in the region • Executive Leadership Fox Cities u 30+ newly recruited, senior level professionals participated u Provided a solution to attract and retain high quality talent in the region u Condensed program connects newly recruited senior level talent and their spouse to the key community leaders in the region and teaches them about the assets of our community
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Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
Congratulations
business of the month
FLEET FEET SPORTS FOX VALLEY
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH | DECEMBER 2012 Address: 3404 West College Avenue, Appleton, Wisconsin 54914 Established: 2009 Telephone: (920) 830-7867 Fleet Feet Sports Fox Valley is locally owned and committed to enhancing and growing local running, walking, and triathlon communities by offering specialty products, educational resources, and training opportunities to assist individuals in achieving their fitness goals. The mission of the business is to educate, empower, and motivate every customer by providing consistent information, engaging programs, and effective tools to support those individual fitness goals. Fleet Feet Sports is more than just a specialty retail business. Everything they do is geared toward fitting their customers as individuals. That’s their “Fitlosophy.” Whether it’s footwear, apparel or sports bras, each person has a fit that’s best for them and they are there to help them find it. Their business goal is to become more than just a store where the community shops. They strive to be a place in the community that provides a comfortable environment, premier programs and services, and the best products on the market. They are a resource for running, walking and general fitness needs; celebrating individuals’
accomplishments with them. Every day they live their goal of “Be(ing) the Movement.” Perhaps not unique to Chamber businesses, but important to mention nonetheless, is their focus on staff development. They truly value what each team member brings in unique experiences and perspective to the store. They continually show their responsibility as business owners to offer their team members opportunities for growth, to enhance their strengths, and keep their long-term goals in mind. While providing a premier shopping experience to their customers, they are also making sure to develop professional, responsible, and entrepreneurial employees. The Chamber proudly salutes Leah Schapiro and her team for being the December Business of the Month. If you know of a Chamber member that deserves recognition, please nominate them at: http://applications.foxcitieschamber.com/
Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
13
accolades, advancements and announcements
accolades FOX VALLEY TECHNICAL COLLEGE honored 15 individuals for outstanding service as members of its program advisory committees. The awards were presented during the college’s annual advisory committee recognition event. Recipients of the 2012 FVTC Outstanding Advisory Committee Member awards include: Chris Bordeaux, N&M Transfer Co., Inc; Glen Eichhorn, Wells Manufacturing; Cindy Enli, J.J. Keller & Associates; Kami Fusco, Northland Laboratories; Scott Granger, Winnebago Mental Health Institute; Jerry Haag, Accurate Alignment & Frame; Stephanie Halverson, Hortonville Area School District; Jim Jensen, SECURA Insurance; Joe Jira, Roehl Transport, Inc.; Tammie Karl, Park View Health Center; Bonnie Kranzusch, Thrivent; Julie Ludwig, Appleton Medical Center; Joey Reader, A-mazing Events; Mike Reger, Plexus; Debbie Woods, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) named Theresa Lehman of MIRON CONSTRUCTION CO., INC. to the 2012 class of LEED Fellows. The LEED Fellow Program is the green building industry’s most prestigious professional designation. The LEED Fellow designation recognizes exceptional contributions to green building and significant professional achievement within the rapidly growing community of LEED professionals. Lehman was among 43 of the world’s most distinguished green building professionals to be selected as LEED Fellows through a peer nomination and portfolio review process. Lehman’s LEED AP-BD+C and ID+C credentials, 12 years of green building experience and extensive portfolio, including such exemplary projects as the nation’s first Platinum LEED certified public school, the Lake Mills Middle School renovation and expansion project, comprise a few of her outstanding qualifications. “We are thrilled to present these highly accomplished individuals with the LEED Fellow designation,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, USGBC. “The Fellows are some of the leading innovators and vanguards of the green building movement, and their bodies of work strongly underscore their commitment to LEED and a sustainable built environment.” On Tuesday, October 23rd, the Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin named SURE-DRY BASEMENT SYSTEMS the Runner-Up recipient in this year’s prestigious Ethics Torch Award for Business Ethics and Integrity. In 2011 Sure-Dry received the Honorable Mention award. The winners were selected by an independent panel of twelve business ethics
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Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
experts and announced at a ceremony at the Pfister Hotel in downtown Milwaukee. The winners were chosen based on submissions that were measured against the following six criteria: leadership commitment to ethical practices, communications of ethical practices, organizational commitment to ethical practices, organizational commitment to performance management practices, organizational commitment to ethical human resources practices and organizational commitment to ethical human resource practices. The BBB’s Business Ethics Torch Award was started nine years ago and is a statewide competition that honors companies and charities that do business in Wisconsin. “It’s our pleasure to shine the spotlight on these companies, all of whom put a high priority on ethics and integrity with their customers, their employees and their vendors,” said Randall Hoth, president/CEO of the Wisconsin BBB. “I applaud their commendable business practices and their commitment to doing things the right way.” FAITH TECHNOLOGIES, a full-service electrical and technology systems contractor, has been recognized with a 2012 Best of the Valley Reader’s Choice award, presented by The Post-Crescent. This year marks the eighth year in a row Faith Technologies has received this award. The company was chosen as best electrical contractor in the professional services category. Faith Technologies, which recently celebrated its 40th anniversary, has been part of the community since 1972 and has been serving individuals, families and businesses in the Fox Valley area ever since. “It truly is an honor to be chosen as best electrical contractor in the professional services category for the eighth year in a row,” said Dick Merbach, Faith Technologies’ Vice President – Appleton. “We strive to provide the highest quality of work each and every day, and to be recognized for it by our customers here in the Valley is very rewarding.” THE BOLDT COMPANY will be honored by the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Wisconsin for the tenth consecutive year when it receives three 2012 Build Wisconsin awards at an upcoming December ceremony. Boldt earned an award for a unique grand entrance and stream enhancement project at Lakeland College in Sheboygan, WI, as well as awards for the firm’s work on two projects at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Appleton, WI.
advancements FOX VALLEY CPA’S, an Appleton-based firm providing tax,
accounting and related business decision guidance and support to small businesses, has recently announced the hire of Jessica Syring as a staff accountant. Syring brings more than 5 years of experience in business accounting. In her new role, Syring provides client support for a range of accounting functions, including: payroll management, tax use and preparation and financial statement reporting. Syring ensures her clients receive timely and accurate financial information. Syring joins the Fox Valley CPA’s team of accountants; this small business accounting firm has enjoyed solid growth since its founding in 1997. Syring’s experience most recently includes more than five years at a local flooring company where she managed all aspects of the small business’s accounting needs including: payroll, quarterly and yearly tax reconciliations, W2 processing and sales tax. She also oversaw human resource-related financial elements, such as 401K plans and employee benefits. MIRON CONSTRUCTION CO., INC. recently hired Kip Golden to serve as its new vice president of industrial business development. In this role, Kip will utilize his 20 years of construction and sales experience to lead Miron’s industrial division in all aspects of business development and client relations. Kip will be responsible for the cultivation of new business opportunities as well as the maintenance of key accounts in the power, paper, food and general industrial markets. He will direct the development of strategic alliances with clients, business partners and industry-specific associations. Prior to joining the Miron team, Kip served in business development, sales and project management roles for a Fox Valley design-build firm. Kip is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin – Platteville and holds a degree in civil/structural engineering with an emphasis on construction management and geotechnical engineering.
announcements NETWORK HEALTH’S employees put on their party hats the week of November 5, as the company celebrated 30 years of providing quality health care coverage. The Menasha-based health insurance plan opened its doors in 1982, welcoming its first group customer. Today, Network Health is the area’s leading health insurance provider. “While very little remains the same in our industry as it did back in 1982, one thing does remain–residents of northeast Wisconsin still value excellent health care coverage and customer service,” said
Sheila Jenkins, president of Network Health, the Menashabased health insurance plan. “These are the same two things which set Network Health apart from others in the industry 30 years ago and they are what will continue to set us apart in the years to come.” The original name of Network Health was Nicolet Health Plan as Nicolet Clinic was the health plan’s original owner. As the company experienced quick growth, their name changed to Network Health Plan in 1986 to better reflect the plan’s development. In August 1998, Network Health merged with Affinity Health System. CROSS & OBERLIE, a Neenah based Screen Printer of Signs & Promotional Products, has expanded their business into new digital markets with the addition of two HP-Scitex FB700 digital presses. This offers more print opportunities for existing customers as well as new customers. The new 6-color, digital press is capable of printing on both flexible and rigid materials. WOW LOGISTICS has announced the expansion of its Trade Finance Program to include off-site product financing for the dairy industry. This new program, the first of its kind, will allow companies to utilize WOW’s Trade Finance Program while aging cheese, as well as storing butter and dairy powders in a distribution center not owned or operated by WOW Logistics. “Our customers have an ever increasing national footprint. By providing off-site trade financing solutions, we meet our customers’ needs by providing services in geographic locations closer to production facilities or their customer base, enabling a significant reduction in transportation costs” states Howard Kamerer, President and CEO of WOW Logistics. WOW Logistics established its “Cheese Finance Program” in 1998 and was one of the first warehousing companies in the country to offer this specialized valued-added service to the dairy industry. Rebranded in 2012, WOW’s “Trade Finance Program” is a solution that allows companies to receive cash up front for their product and defer 100% of the cost of aging cheese (e.g. Cheddar, Parmesan, Romano, Asiago) and storing dairy products such as butter and powders, therefore freeing up their cash flow.
Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
15
year in review
competitive workforce • Fox Cities 8th Grade Career Fair u 3,000+ students from 21 schools attended u 105 business professionals inspired students through conversation and hands-on activities • Placed over 1,000 students in Work-based Learning job shadows • Conducted Financial Literacy programs for high school students • Arranged access to 50+ business leaders for speakers bureau for area schools • Conducted 300+ mock interviews for high school students • Coordinated and facilitated 250+ educators and business leaders to access session with Mr. William Symonds, Director, Pathways to Prosperity, Harvard Graduate School of Education • 1st Annual STEM Fest with 1,100+ students through Fox Cities F.O.C.U.S. (Fostering Our Communities Understanding of STEM – science, technology, engineering and math) • Conducted Christa McAuliffe Teacher Academy to 200+ teachers providing them hands-on experiences with local businesses to learn new technologies and addressing needs/gaps for the ever-changing demands of the business community
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Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
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Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
17
We Can’t Do It Without You! The Fox Cities Chamber strives to create programs of value available to all our members at the lowest fees possible. To that end, we acknowledge and thank the many sponsors that enable us to keep providing the services, programs and training our members expect from us. The Event was a huge success with over 1,000 local business men and women gathering to celebrate local business leadership and the accomplishments of the Chamber of Commerce. We want to acknowledge and publicly thank the sponsors that allowed this event to flourish.
Presenting Sponsor
Premier/VIP Reception Sponsor
Athena Sponsor Bergstrom Automotive
Contributing Sponsors AT&T BMO Harris Bank The Boldt Company Business Lending Group, Inc. Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group, Inc. Faith Technologies Fox Valley Technical College Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction, Inc. Innovative Machining, Inc. Keller, Inc. Miron Construction, Inc. Network Health Plan Outagamie County Regional Airport SECURA Insurance ThedaCare Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Woodward Communications, Inc.
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Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
Premier Sponsor
THE EVENT 2012 Award Winners
The awards for The Event Celebrating Business Success were presented on Thursday, November 8, 2012 at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center. The winners are local business professionals who make a positive impact on the Fox Cities area.
Young Professional of the Year
Kip Golden, Miron Construction. Kip Golden epitomizes the passion and hope of the young leadership in our area. Born and raised in the Fox Valley, he is involved in Haven of Hope; a leader in local economic development including helping to launch the Chamber’s Economic Development Initiative. Kip is active in Leadership Fox Cities, PULSE, the Appleton Baseball Club and the Menasha Redevelopment Authority.
Ambassador of the Year
Joanne Fischer, Telecom Insites. Joanne Fischer considers her Ambassador involvement as an investment in the growth of the community. She is one of the most active members of the Chamber, being involved in the Golf Outing, President’s Club, Ambassadors and the Business Expo to name only a few. Her leadership and dedication to the mission and success of the Chamber has been evident for the past 32 years. She also volunteers her time, talent and treasure as a past Regional Board Chair for Children’s Hospital; City Wide Paper Recycling Project; and the development of Appleton’s North Side Summit Community Park.
Athena Award – Business Woman of the Year
Monica Vomastic, Landmark Staffing Resources. To say that Monica Vomastic supports women in business is an understatement. Monica tirelessly provides coaching and mentoring to women as they find their path in the business world. She helps assess skill-sets, and provides guidance for the right career move. Some of her many other achievements include: Certified by the State of Wisconsin as a Women-Owned Business Enterprise; serving on the Fox Cities Economic Development Campaign; and sponsoring many community service ventures such as: St. Elizabeth’s Foundation; United Way; The Gardens; and the Woman’s Event.
Champion of the Chamber
Debra Michiels, Fox Banquets Rivertyme Catering. Debra Michiels is a visionary advocate for not only the Chamber but the business community. She sits on The St. Elizabeth Foundation Board, the YMCA Corporate Board, the Wisconsin Restaurant Assocation Big Four Board; and the Economic Development Council of the Chamber. Being a member of the Chamber for more than 24 years, she promotes and encourages Chamber participation to the community. Debra’s community involvement is evident by her contributions to Big Brothers/Big Sisters; Children’s Hospital; Fox Valley Humane Society; Salvation Army and the United Way – to name only a few.
The Exceptional Mentor Award
Beth Davis, Community First Credit Union. Beth Davis gives generously of her time, experiences and energy to many emerging and accomplished leaders of our community. Her impact reaches far beyond the role she plays at Community First Credit Union. Beth’s willingness to mentor young professionals demonstrates her long term commitment to the development of the Fox Cities region. Beth is President-Elect of the Women’s Fund; and current mentor with the Chamber’s Mentor Match.
Entrepreneur of the Year
Rollie Stephenson, Faith Technologies, Inc. Rollie Stephenson’s entrepreneurial success is evident by his formation of one of the top privately-held electrical and specialty system contractors in the United States. He first formed Town & Country Electric in 1972 and through his leadership evolved into Faith Technologies – now ranked 17th among Electrical Construction and Maintenance’s Top 50 Electrical Contractors. Rollie is constantly diagnosing the company’s operations and performance, keeping Faith Technologies at its fullest potential. He also finds time to be active with Well Cities Fox Cities; Fox Valley Technical College Foundation; CHAT Community; Community Foundation and many more.
Gus A. Zuehlke Distinguished Service Award
Oscar Boldt, The Boldt Group Inc. Oscar Boldt is a long standing member of the Fox Valley. His building projects are seen throughout the Valley. Additionally, he has served on numerous boards and his generosity to local nonprofits is legend. Oscar’s leadership supports the Fox Valley in both business and community issues. He was one of the driving forces creating the Fox Valley Performing Art Center; recent new developments at Lawrence University and the expansion of Alliance Church. Gus Zuelke would be proud to learn that Oscar Boldt earned this award.
Inductees to The Business Hall of Fame
Paul J. Hoffman, Hoffman LLC is a 4th generation business owner. His vision “to make a positive impact on people’s lives and their environment by providing creative ideas and responsible solutions” spans well beyond his company. He has been involved in many of the major building projects in our community. Whether as the lead project manager, offering expertise or as a collaborator, Paul Hoffman always adds a flair to the Fox Cities. Paul has created jobs, new businesses, new opportunities and a great quality of life for the area. His leadership includes, among others, the Attic Theatre; the new downtown convention center; the Life Services Network; and the Associated General Contractors of America. Paul’s Total Project Management: Vision Taken to the Power of Green is Hoffman’s exclusive process that integrates efficient, healthy and cost effective building solutions that respect the environment while enhancing the building’s quality and value. Paul and other Fox Valley citizens are involved in the renovations of many local buildings and community structures for the good of everyone in the region. The Chamber salutes Paul Hoffman as a visionary in our community.
Continued on page 20
Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
19
THE EVENT 2012 Award Winners
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Robert Keller, Chairman of the Board of Directors, J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. is the corporate strategist responsible for leading and growing J. J. Keller into the company it is today. Bob shaped the culture of strong values and integrity which is the backdrop for J.J. Keller’s guiding principles. Under his leadership, J.J. Keller’s client list grew to include more than 300,000 companies worldwide – including 90% of the Fortune 1000 in a wide range of markets. Bob’s vision led J.J. Keller to open the InHealth Wellness Center in 2009 responding to rising healthcare costs for the company. In 2012, J.J. Keller received a Gold Well Workplace Award as one of America’s healthiest companies. Some of the many organizations that have profited from Bob’s leadership and generosity are Associated Bank, the Community Foundation of the Fox Valley Region, the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce, the Fox Valley Technical College Foundation, Future Neenah Development Corporation; UW-Oshkosh Chancellor’s Council of Advisors and the UW-Oshkosh Foundation; the University of Wisconsin E-Business Consortium; the Boys and Girls Club; Rawhide and the Boy Scouts. The Chamber salutes Bob for his dedication to the community. Kathi Seifert, Chairman, Katapult, LLC. is a retired executive for Kimberly-Clark Corporation. Kathi’s list of professional/business accomplishments is one to which very few leaders can lay claim. Currently, she is on the Board of Directors for Eli Lilly & Company; Supervalu; Lexmark, Inc.; Revlon, Inc.; Appleton (Papers); US Fund for UNICEF, Fox Cities Performing Arts Center; Valparaiso University Business School and New North, Inc. Kathi was also awarded Fortune’s Most Powerful Women in Business (2002) and Forbes Top 50 Women (2001). Kathi has brought her vast success and experience to enrich the lives of the residents of the Fox Cities region. She is very passionate about the future leaders in this area. PULSE and KC NEON are two young business adults programs that she has supported both financially and with her time and energy. Her community awards read like a novel – the Jane LaChapelle McCarthy Unity in Diversity Award, the Rotary Paul Harris Fellow Award, the Distinguished Alumni of Valparaiso University, the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center Distinguished Service Award, the Athena Award and finally the Walter Rugland Community Service Award. The Chamber salutes Kathi for her leadership in building community.
president’s perspective We are proud of the work that has started and will continue to build community through Advocacy, Economic Development, Competitive Workforce, and our many Leadership and Professional Development programs. These programs are overseen by a dedicated and passionate team of professionals that I am blessed to have as part of the team. On a personal note, Travis and I welcomed the newest member of our Chamber Team on October 26, 2012, my daughter Finley Frances Full. We all thank you for your good wishes and I couldn’t have asked for a better
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community in which to bring up my daughter. We thank you for your continuing investment in our great community. Travis, Finley and I wish you and yours a great holiday season and fabulous New Year. Sincerely, Shannon
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Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
year in review events Signature Community and Member Events • Octoberfest u Provided significant community impact by granting over $70,000 to local non-profits. Organizations that received grants include: • Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Fox Valley Region Inc. • Appleton Downtown Inc. • Appleton Park and Recreation • Appleton-Fox Cities Kiwanis • Building for Kids • Career Fair • Fox Cities Book Festival • Fox Cities PAC • Friends of the Appleton Fire Department • Gordon Bubolz Nature Preserve, Inc. • Greater Fox Cities Area Habitat for Humanity • Heckrodt Wetland Reserve, Inc. • History Museum at the Castle • Literacy Education Services • Makaroff Youth Ballet • YMCA of the Fox Cities u Over 600+ volunteers participated to ensure a successful event u 100,000+ people attended this signature community event • The Event u Recognized distinguished business leaders in 2nd Annual Event – Celebration of Business Success u Connected over 1,000 business leaders with one another at signature annual event u Provided business leaders with high-end, black-tie event focused on business successes • Economic Outlook Breakfast u Connected 550+ business leaders with access to national experts on economic trends • The Business Awards becomes the Business Trifecta u Three events in one day at one location • Business Awards Luncheon – Connected and recognized 600+ business leaders for local business achievements u Business Expo • New layout and approach to the event was very well received • Booth space sold out u Business Connection held at the conclusion of the Business Expo • 79% of survey respondents rated the combination of the 3 events as Excellent • Golf Outing u Moved to Butte des Morts Country Club u 192 golfers participated in a double shot gun event • Events Sponsorships for all signature events continues to be an outstanding opportunity for members to have additional exposure. • Business Connections u Provided access and connections to 2,400+ business leaders throughout the year at this monthly networking event • Ribbon Cuttings u Recognized and celebrated individual business success with 60+ ribbon cuttings of local businesses at this monthly networking event
Fox Cities Chamber Business DECEMBER 2012
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FOX CITIES
CHAMBER
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Fox Cities Chamber Business c/o Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc. PO Box 1855 Appleton, WI 54912-1855