2012 March Magazine

C HA M B ER

MARCH 2012 Volume 13, Issue 3

FO X C ITIES

SBA Loan eligibility How Credit unions help local businesses Post-recession: threats and opportunities for Entrepreneurs

www.foxcitieschamber.com

Fox Valley Tech has helped us attract some of the best and brightest students to our company.

Jessica Stini Recruiter Plexus

Student Employment Services

Post your job openings on Wisconsin TechConnect, your online resource for Wisconsin technical college graduates.

It’s fast, easy to use, and free!

www.fvtc.edu/ses-employers (920) 735-JOBS (5627) ses@fvtc.edu

Familiar faces you know and trust.

Together, our team has over 100 years of experience serving the financial needs of the Fox Valley area.

At Bank First, we’re focused on providing the flexibility you need now to meet the demands of a new marketplace. Our experience, resources and ideas can help you adapt in this everchanging environment.

Please consider stopping in, calling or emailing our team!

Clockwise from top: Mike Dempsey, Jessica Darmawan, Carol Franz, Mei Bloechl, Joan Woldt, Meghann Kasper

jwoldt@bankfirstnational.com mkasper@bankfirstnational.com mbloechl@bankfirstnational.com

For Better Banking, Think First.

101 city center, oshkosh | (920) 237-5126 2747 Manitowoc Road, bellevue | (920) 469-0500 Manitowoc | two RiveRs | Mishicot | FRancis cReek st. nazianz | kiel | PlyMouth | sheboygan

Member FDIC

grow socially

People talk. And chances are that on one or more social mediums, they are discussing – for better or worse – your business. Don’t be socially awkward; join the conversation with confidence.

Let’s grow your online voice, together.

Marketing | Design | Packaging | Public Relations | Web & Interactive | 920.380.4444 | www.coalescemarketing.com

this issue

Volume 13, Issue 3 | MARCH 2012

EVERY ISSUE 3 President’s pe rspe c tive Views from Chamber President/CEO Shannon Meyer Full

18 Accolades, Advancements, Announcements 20 department update s 21 chamber e -ve n ts

Upcoming chamber events

SBA Loans; Wayne Colbert, page 4

22 New members

features 4 SBA Loans: Eligible to More Business Owners Than Often Believed; Wayne Colbert 6 How Credit Unions Help Local Business; Heather Vander Heyden

Credit Unions; Heather Vander Heyden, page 6

8 After the Recession: Threats and Opportunities for Entrepreneurs; Jon Richard 10 Investing in the New Normal; Steve Hooyman 12 Community Banks — Local Strength and Consistency; Nate Kok 14 A 401(k) Revolution; Mark Scheffler

Highlights

Threats and Opportunities for Entrepreneurs; JonBack, Richard, page Octoberfest Gives page 14 8 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 Board of Directors Chairman of the Board Linda Kennedy, Business Lending Group Chair-Elect Greg Bell, WHBY Past Chairman Jim Rankin, Air Wisconsin Airlines Corporation Secretary/Treasurer Bruce Zak, JPMorgan Chase, N.A. Vice Chairman Membership Services Monica Vosmastic, Landmark Staffing Resources Vice Chairman Economic Development Kip Golden, Keller Inc. Vice Chairman Workforce & Leadership Development Joyce Bytof, Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group Vice Chairman Government Relations Robyn Gruner, AT&T Kim Bassett Heitzmann Bassett Mechanical

Vic Lutz McMahon

Corey Brumbaugh Miron Construction Co, Inc.

Bill Mann ThedaCare

Kevin Eismann Epiphany Law, LLC Daniel P. Ferris SECURA Insurance Jim Gaerthofner Nordon Business Environments

John Milanowski Innovative Machining, Inc. Bill Mundy West Business Services

Sharon Hulce Employment Resource Group Inc.

Robert Pedersen Goodwill NCW

Dennis Jochman The Bechard Group Lyssa King OuterEdge Stage

23 Networking Tips

John Krause Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP

26 Marketing Oppotunities

Debra Michiels Fox Banquets Rivertyme Catering

Vince Gallucci Affinity Health System

16 Economic Development 24 2012 Planning

Dr. Susan May Fox Valley Technical College

James Rossmeissl The Boldt Company Catherine Tierney Community First Credit Union Joan Woldt Bank First National

Marty Lenss Outagamie County Regional Airport

Fox Cities Chamber Business (w 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

Investment … this is a perfect topic for the financial issue of our magazine. Every day we make choices on investing. Where is the best place to invest our time, talent and treasure? Where will I get the greatest return on that investment? How will my investment make a difference?

Many of you have probably already heard me talk about investment and you will continue to hear my talk about investing in our future business climate. I have learned over the past year that there are passionate, committed investors in this community that show their support to churches, charitable organization, and various community assets. I also have learned that few business leaders, elected officials and community stakeholders realize the significance of increasing our investment in economic development.

We live in a very competitive global marketplace, and my main goal is to help our local companies of all sizes and types better compete so as to strengthen the overall community through the growth of our businesses. In order to achieve this

goal, I am happy to announce that we are forming the Economic Development Alliance and a new initiative Ignite Fox Cities, which will be a game-changer for us going forward. We will be focusing on attraction of new companies to the region, expansion of existing companies and gardening those entrepreneurs in the formation of new innovative companies.

SHANNON MEYER FULL PRESIDENT/CEO

If we are going to be competitive … if we are going to be successful … we must be aggressive.

We must have the right people, on the bus and in the right seats. We will have passionate people working to increase our competitiveness through strong innovative programming that is grounded by strong metrics and based upon best practices that will truly set us apart from our GLOBAL competition. This new initiative will take investments that we have never made in the past. We need you…we need your time, your talent and your treasure to truly Ignite the Fox Cities.

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

3

featured story

SBA Loans: Eligible to More Business Owners Than Often Believed There’s no doubt that owning a business, especially a small business, in today’s economic climate isn’t easy.

Wayne Colbert

Branch Manager, Citizens Bank – Appleton East

“Although we’ve been relatively fortunate in the Fox Valley compared to other parts of the country with regards to the impact of the economic downturn, we’ve still faced our challenges,” said Wayne Colbert, branch manager for Citizens Bank – Appleton East. “Many businesses have cut costs and sometimes personnel to make it through this economic down cycle. Others, who had hoped to buy a business, decided to hold off on the purchase.”

The good news is there are signs the economy is improving. With that news, small business owners and entrepreneurs might want to consider taking advantage of U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans. Citizens Bank is a SBA preferred lender, which helps streamline the lending process.

SBA loans were specifically created to assist and protect existing small businesses and to start, build and grow a business.

That means these loans can be used to purchase an existing business; purchase land, a building, or equipment; provide permanent working capital; or assist with an expansion. SBA loans are also available to help small businesses who export to foreign countries, to businesses that operate in rural areas as they have unique loan processing needs and to those who are active duty military personnel.

Why consider an SBA loan? The following are qualities that make SBA loans so attractive: • There is usually a lower cash down payment requirement, as little as 10% instead of the typical 20-25% down payment.

• SBA loans have a longer repayment schedule providing lower monthly loan payment amounts compared to conventional terms.

• There are no balloon payments meaning the loan won’t mature and the balance won’t come due in three to five years as do conventional loans.

• Recent changes in SBA’s CAPLine allow for businesses to secure a SBA backed line of credit using account receivables as collateral. This is beneficial to small businesses that land a large contract for work and need funds to beef up inventory or hire new staff as a result.

4

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

Despite the benefits and incentives that SBA loans offer, many still are under the misconception that banks aren’t lending. This is simply not the case. Small businesses are the backbone of both our local and national economy and, in the last three months alone, the SBA supported $14 billion in lending.

Another clarification is that the term “small business” goes above and beyond one or two employee firms, so it’s important to not rule yourself out for being eligible for an SBA loan. And, as a result of permanent

SBA regulation increases, more businesses may be eligible than in the past. In addition, limits for certain SBA loans have increased permanently from $2 million to $5 million. If you’re looking to establish lines of credit, need financing assistance now or in the near future, or want to learn what types of supporting documents are needed to see if you qualify for an SBA loan, take time to meet with a financial representative at a bank who has experience helping businesses in the community with SBA loans.

Now Relieving Pain in the Fox Valley

For an added convenience, seek out an SBA-preferred lender for a smoother, easier and quicker loan process.

Remember, just because the economy isn’t where it once was, it doesn’t mean funds aren’t available. Now’s a great time to explore your options and position your business for growth.

Advanced Pain Management is pleased to announce the opening of our new location at 2700 E. Enterprise Avenue in Appleton. At APM our goal is to relieve pain, restore function and renew hope for our patients.

Offering advanced treatments for: Back & Neck Pain • Sciatica SI Joint Pain • Work & Sports Injury Joint Pain • Spinal Stenosis

Nileshkumar Patel, MD, MBA Board Certified Pain Management Board Certified Anesthesiology Cleveland Clinic Fellowship Trained Minimally Invasive Spine Specialist

Maurizio Albala, MD

Board Certified Pain Management Board Certified Anesthesiology Harvard & Tuft University Fellowship Trained

www.APMhealth.com

Scan the code with your smart phone to view a video or visit www.apmhealth.com/foxvalley.

Need a code reader? Go to get.neoreader.com.

• 888-901-PAIN (7246)

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

5

featured story

How Credit Unions Help Local Business In light of the challenging economic climate, many small business owners are reevaluating which financial institutions are best suited to them and, in some instances, traditional banks don’t have quite the appeal they used to.

Heather Vander Heyden

Senior Business Development Officer, Fox Communities Credit Union

Most people are still unaware that credit unions are even able to offer business products. Banks and credit unions offer similar products and services, but credit unions typically offer them for a better price.

The biggest difference between banks and credit unions is that the latter are not-forprofit financial cooperatives, which means all their profits and earnings are shared with every member. This allows them to pay higher interest rates on our savings/ checking accounts and charge lower interest rates on loans.

Credit unions in the area never stopped lending money. It appeared as if there were no funds available during the midst of the recession, but credit union funds have been earmarked for small businesses. Funds are available and they are here to meet borrowing needs. Credit unions service all types of businesses, offering lending solutions for members including: SBA, lines of credit, multi-family apartments, and commercial real estate.

Here is a quote from a happy business member of a local credit union:

“The credit union helped us get our start when no one else was willing to give us a look. They were there for us with the SBA loan and business checking. We found that their business services were very inexpensive compared to the competition. Credit Unions are great to work with!”

–Phil Schmidt, owner, The Meat Block 6

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

Small business owners pondering credit union membership should take several things into consideration.

• Before shopping around for a credit union, consider why you need a new financial institution in the first place.

Are you looking for specialized services, such as investment help, or a small business loan? Many institutions will work to customize your needs.

• Look at the history, stability, and security of the credit union. Finding a credit union that will take the time to learn about your business, understand your needs, and who gets to know you as a person and not just another account number, is extremely important.

• Look at the fees involved with your business checking account. If you are just starting out, look for a credit union that has low minimum balance requirements. Most credit unions offer this along with a large number of transactions free per month before you begin to pay. Also, try to avoid getting a business checking account that will require you to pay for services that should be free, such as online banking or rolled or strapped currency fees.

Give credit union’s some thought. Look at what they can do for you. Move your money, if and when it is in your own best interest.

Remember, that credit unions are local and “behave” like small businesses in your community. You may find you have a lot in common.

(920) 968-4600

Pam Baumann, Owner & CEO Business Entrepreneur Since 1987

pam@pamcosuites.com • pamcosuites.com 501 S. Nicolet Rd.

3 Locations in Appleton to Choose From 2800 E. Enterprise Ave. 4650 W. Spencer St. • 501 S. Nicolet Rd.

4650 W. Spencer St.

Starting at $400/month! ~ A LL IN C LUS IV E ~

2800 E. Enterprise Ave.

$500–$600/month for lower level suites • $700–$900 for main level suites Most suites are beautifully furnished and decorated.

WE CAN HAVE YOUR BUSINESS UP AND RUNNING IN TWO DAYS!

Great looking signs are just a click away!

FASTSIGNS® output techniques and streamlined communication systems allow delivery of quality signs and graphics that help get you noticed. Whether you need one sign – or a thousand signs – FASTSIGNS® offers you creative, affordable and effective sign solutions. Simply.

Appleton

One block south of College Ave. at 135 S. Casaloma Dr.

(920) 954-9778 www.fastsigns.com/267

Independently owned and operated. ©2007 FASTSIGNS International, Inc.

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

7

featured story

After the Recession: Threats and Opportunities for Entrepreneurs Jon Richard

Financial Services Professional New York Life Insurance Company

Unfortunately few operating businesses are immune to the effects of the recent credit crunch. As the threat of possible inflation and rising prices continues, oftentimes available credit will tighten. Small business owners may be left to restock inventories with less liquidity. This effect can quickly snowball and cause serious liquidity and credit problems. Keeping lines of credit open and maintaining an additional cash buffer may ease the pressure a bit.

Business owners can also look for loans from less traditional sources. A permanent life insurance policy, for example, provides death benefit protection, but can build equity in the form of cash value you can borrow against should you need to. 1

Opportunity: Increased Unemployment Results in Larger Employee Pool For employers looking to bring on new employees, the down economy may actually benefit their business. Increased unemployment has flooded the employee pool with more highly qualified candidates than ever before. Employers shouldn’t overlook potential candidates because of the stigma of having been laid off.

The job market presents the opportunity for small business owners to attract and retain big business talent at small business costs.

Opportunity: Retirement Contribution Tax Deductions Many business owners are so certain they will be able to fund their retirement through the sale of their business that they don’t bother to make any other retirement plans. The reality is, a sale might not be easy and there are attractive opportunities for current tax deductions through qualified retirement plans.

It may also be wise to hire commissionbased employees, often known as “pay for performance.” Employers will find an increasing number of qualified individuals that may have never considered commission-based compensation before, willing to give it a try.

The cash value in a permanent policy is accessed through policy loans, which accrue interest at the current rate, and cash withdrawals. Loans and withdrawals will decrease the available death benefit and cash value.

1

Traditional plans remain popular and include IRAs, 401(k)s, SEPs and SIMPLEs. They allow employers to take a tax deduction on contributions. The 412(e) (3) plan may allow certain small business owners to make potentially higher initial tax deductible contributions. You should consult your tax or legal advisor prior to establishing a qualified retirement plan. 2

8

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

Neither New York Life, nor its agents, provides tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult with your professional adviser for tax, legal, or accounting advice.

2

Let the Name Calling Begin!

Call Me “FOUR EYES”

I’ve been called “Four Eyes” all my life. It helps as a

Project Manager to have an eye on all aspects of your construction project. I always have one eye on the design, one on the planning, one on the construction, and one on the customer to be sure they are happy throughout the entire building process.

” “Four Eyes Dave, AKA anager Regional M Co-Owner See Dave’s work at the following local businesses: Enterprise Center, New York Life, Liebovich Brothers, Services Plus, Baker Tilly, and Holland Cold Storage to name a few.

A

FACE of Keller

I am a face of Keller and four eyes or two eyes, I’m going to do my best to get your project completed on time and within your budget. I am an Employee Owner, Regional Manager, and Design/ Build Expert. But don’t just take me at face value, call today and experience for yourself the difference that is Keller, Inc.

Construction Excellence Since 1960

1.800.236.2534 l www.kellerbuilds.com

Business & MARCH Offices in theFox FoxCities Cities,Chamber Madison, Milwaukee Wausau 2012

9

featured story

Investing in the New Normal Experienced investors and investment advisors tend to feel uneasy when they hear the term “new normal.”

Steve Hooyman

Baker Tilly Investment Advisors, LLP

The underlying premise of Community Banks is to consistently meet the needs of small businesses and individual customers in the local markets they serve

10

The last time the term was used frequently was in the late 1990s, when technology stocks were selling at astronomical levels and phrases like “new normal” and “profits don’t matter” became rather common. Of course, we learned that there was no “new normal” and profits did, in fact, matter. The stocks that were selling at heights virtually never seen before came back down to earth, and many people decided that what occurred was a good old fashioned bubble.

Perhaps then Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan said it best when he called it “irrational exuberance.”

The two dominant asset classes of stocks and bonds, however, do react significantly to whatever environment exists at any particular time. Both stocks and bonds are heavily influenced by interest rates, inflation, fiscal and monetary policy, as well as global geopolitical events such as war and natural disasters, etc. For today’s stock investor, it may be difficult to push aside memories of the extreme volatility experienced in 2008. In fact, for many, the

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

credit crisis in Europe may seem eerily similar to the mortgage crisis the United States experienced in 2007 and 2008 and the Great Recession that followed. It is true that stocks have a long-term track record of relatively extreme volatility for concentrated periods of time, requiring investors to have patience and a longterm view of one’s own investment objectives and current market conditions, sometimes up to a decade or more. The recent stock market volatility and long investment horizons may cause individuals to forego investing in stocks and choose more conservative investments such as high quality short-term bonds and money market funds.

Bonds, particularly bonds issued by companies or governments with strong balance sheets, tend to be a less volatile alternative to stocks. Since the early 1980s when interest rates were near all-time highs bonds have been, for the most part, on a long-term winning streak as interest rates have slowly fallen to historic lows. This long

winning streak is because the market value of bonds increases when interest rates fall. The reverse is also true in that, when interest rates rise, longer-duration bonds in particular do not normally fare well.

conscious of the potential pitfalls inherent in the current low interest rate environment, and not overly-tempted by the “extra” yield derived from investing in bonds with maturities of 10 years or more.

If a “new normal” does exist, one might argue that the term would be better suited to today’s bond market than the stock market. The “old normal” of interest rates continuing to fall at a relatively consistent level will most likely be replaced by rates at or near historic levels for the near-term, and then potentially rising quickly when the economy begins to strengthen to a point where the Federal Reserve deems it necessary to raise interest rates to prevent inflation. Therefore, if rates were to rise rapidly, individuals who own bonds with shorter maturities would fare better than those with longer maturities such as 30-year fixed income investments. That being said, today’s investor should be

As previously stated, “new normals” tend to eventually be explained by many of the same circumstances that have influenced the market year after year. In fact, many investment advisors choose not to believe in a “new normal,” and instead subscribe to the view that investments will always react to significant events like wars, oil shortages, sovereign debt defaults and the like. Understanding how your investments react to these various conditions and keeping a long-term view about investing has always been, and will likely continue to be, some of the best investment advice an advisor can provide.

24/7 OFFICE: 920-747-0386 TOLL FREE: 855-733-3590 Anything • Anywhere • Anytime 24/7 • Local to National www.efreightcourier.com

Daily post office pickup or delivery

One Way Or Another, We’ll Get It There.

Wisconsin’s #1 medical courier, when life depends on it all the local hospitals call us, if you have a same day delivery call us, we’ll get it there.

Scheduled deliveries Bank/Legal/Medical Straight truck/cargo van/vehicle 1hr-rush service-3hr/or end of day Service to Milwaukee, Chicago, and Madison daily, Local to National

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

11

featured story

Community Banks — Local Strength and Consistency There has certainly been an economic roller coaster ride over the past few years. During the peak, favorable terms and rates on loans and deposits were everywhere.

Nate Kok

Vice President Commercial Lending, Hometown Bank

The underlying premise of Community Banks is to consistently meet the needs of small businesses and individual customers in the local markets they serve

12

A short while later, uncertainty set in, the economy grew stagnant and some banks sustained losses and revamped their cultures, leaving many customers struggling with the changes. At the point many needed help the most, their ‘financial partner’ failed. Today, some small businesses and individuals are wondering which bank to align themselves with in order to avoid being caught in the middle, again.

Most of us recognize that NE Wisconsin has had its share of challenges, but our local economy had nowhere near the troubles as many other regions of the country or the world; thanks in part to the conservative nature of our residents. However, institutions with risk exposure to troubled markets felt the negative impact from both sustained losses and uneasy shareholders and despite the root cause of these problems existing elsewhere, this impacted their ability to meet the needs of local customers. By and

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

large, community banks were able to sidestep this situation.

The underlying premise of Community Banks is to consistently meet the needs of small businesses and individual customers in the local markets they serve, which aligns their risk profiles to mirror one another.

The unique economics of community banks is to utilize local deposits to make loans to the people and businesses in the communities they are grounded in.

This concept of being vested creates a consistency that some customers find attractive, while most deem absolutely necessary. After all, consistent access to capital, especially for small businesses, is easy to obtain when the economy is good, but vital when it is not. While many banking relationships have been negatively impacted by uncertainty of the economy in recent memory, the economy of

Not surprisingly, as the local economy is a vital focus of a community bank, understanding its dynamics is crucial to making sound decisions. Since management, employees, directors and the majority of shareholders are local citizens, they are in tune with the communities they serve and rely on the knowledge and relationships they’ve built with the citizens to guide their path forward. Community bank employees are your neighbors and friends, and provide their time, talents and resources, alongside

citizens like you, to promote economic development and advancement, and aid service organizations, community affairs and non-profit organizations. In addition, community bank employees are on-site and accessible to customers face to face and can utilize that position to provide superior customer service and make quick decisions based on a person’s character. Furthermore, community banks are themselves small businesses, providing a first-hand understanding of what a small business needs.

With this overall structure and philosophy, community banks will continue to commit consistency, knowledge and a personal approach to meet the needs of their customers into the future, despite what challenges the national or global economy has in store.

Because your project starts with an idea, START WITH HOFFMAN.

We help you put the pieces together!

Digital printing In-house graphic design High impact color copies Fox West YMCA

Fast service

Email, phone or fax your files / orders!

We are planning, design, and construction professionals...and your VALUED BUSINESS PARTNER.

Need a quote?

Use our online quote form.

logos banners brochures envelopes letterhead invitations

www.instaprintplus.com

NE Wisconsin has insulated locally chartered community banks’ aggregate credit risks in comparison to institutions exposed to other regions of the country or world. As a result, local community banks have been able to continue their active lending roles, filling the funding gaps that were created by institutions impacted by exposure to volatile markets.

business cards copies/color copies

920.731.2322 | www.hoffman.net

534 W. Wisconsin Avenue • Appleton, WI

920.739.5218

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

13

featured story

A 401(k) Revolution I hereby declare 2012 the “Year of the 401(k) Bid!”

Mark Scheffler

Appleton Group Wealth Management

If I had the power to make an actual proclamation, that’d be it. After almost 20 years following the rollout of the selfdirected 401(k), our trusty friend is getting a significant makeover that will make you look twice at your current retirement plan provider.

First, a little history. Back in the early 1990s when technological innovation was reshaping global businesses, the 401(k) plan could have been best described as “stodgy.” There were only a small handful of investment options that you could choose from, and you only received statements every three months or more.

If you wanted to change investments, you were severely restricted in doing so. But when the internet first came to the masses, it sparked a revolution in the retirement plan arena: you could now go online and check your fund balances every day, you could change investments almost as often as you wanted to, and the number of choices available was overwhelming.

Because you were now managing your largest financial asset on your own, the successes became yours. Unfortunately, the failures became yours too.

And since the turn of the century, 401(k) participants have been hit hard. We hear time and time again from retirement plan participants about the “lost decade,” how so many individuals rode the roller coaster all the way up in 2000, and all the way back down – twice! But hidden in the underbrush of the 401(k) plan and all its variations was something far more devious: Wall Street and large insurance companies

14

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

and big banks were getting rich. The fees generated by these new retirement plans were massive, with so many of the expenses being cleverly hidden from view.

But not any more. Starting in 2012, all 401(k) plans are now required by law to fully disclose the litany of hidden expenses and conflicts of interest that have made it so hard for participants to get ahead. Hidden insurance fees will be a thing of the past, under-the-table fee arrangements like self-dealing and double-dipping will need to be disclosed to participants. Conflicts of interest (such as having your provider make more money off of some investments than others) will no longer be swept under the carpet. Finally, plan participants will know what they’re paying and what they’re getting for those fees.

And it’s already having a powerful effect: according to Charles Schwab, plan sponsors and other investors are fleeing to independent retirement plan providers who for years have eliminated hidden compensation and conflicts of interest on their own without the push of regulators. As of the end of 2010, more than $2.7 trillion of investor assets have shifted away from insurance companies, big banks and fullservice brokers. It’s a genuine movement, a revolution that all starts with a bid.

That too has never been easier, often taking less than two hours of HR time to complete. 2012 is the year of the 401(k) bid.

It’s nothing less than a revolution, and your company and 401(k) participants will surely benefit by going to bid this year. You may be shocked by the results!

out and about

Full House at the Economic Outlook Breakfast

Greg Bell and David Francis

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

15

economic development

d logo

“Pathways to Prosperity” The Road of Economic Success

In an evolving world, the one size fits all approach to education that has carried the United States in the past is far less likely to succeed.

16

The connection between workforce development and education has resonated in both the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce’s Economic Development Study and the Community Life Study. Businesses are having a difficult time finding skilled and talented workers. In an evolving world, the one size fits all approach to education that has carried the United States in the past is far less likely to succeed. According to the economic study only 24.8% of 27 year olds have obtained a four year degree. What happened to the other 75.2%? How well did we prepare them to enter the workforce? Bill Symonds, Harvard Graduate School of Education, released a study in 2011 called “Pathways to Prosperity: Meeting the Challenge of Preparing Young Americans for the 21st Century” in which they studied the connection between education and the workforce with an interest in finding a realistic path to employability.

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

“Pathway’s to Prosperity” identifies a vision for how the United States can regain the leadership in educational attainment it held for over a century. It advocates developing a comprehensive pathway system for youth in high-school and beyond and is based on three elements. The first element states that the transition to adulthood has changed radically, but the system has not evolved. The definition of success needs to be broadened.

What does the labor market of today demand and how much education do you need to succeed? “College for All” should be considered a meaningful “post-secondary credential” for all. This can be earned through multiple paths: technical colleges, community colleges, apprenticeships, the military/ community service or a four year college.

Many of these options are less expensive than the four year option. The key elements to multiple pathways include, elevating career

education to world-class levels, providing high-quality career counseling, expanding and improving opportunities for work-based learning, career academies and a regional career and technical education high school.

The second element calls for businesses to play a stronger role in supporting the pathways. Businesses will need to become full partners in the pathway system by playing a key role in career counseling, working with counselors to give them a better understanding of the future labor market. Businesses may be asked to help design high quality programs of study and provide a variety of work based learning opportunities.

The third element is a new compact with society and young people. Key stake holders in the community: education, business, and government and community leaders work together in a collaborative partnership to ask

the question “who is being left behind” and “what are we going to do to help them succeed?” We need to be willing to provide more flexibility and choices in the last two years of high school, with more opportunities for students to pursue program options that link work and learning.

On January 31, the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and Industry brought together the key stakeholders: education, business and community leaders for small group conversations centered on what it would take to build a partnership which could collectively unify education, business and community in order to ensure a strong talent pipeline. This partnership will create a consistent mechanism to support a talented workforce. If you would like to participate in this partnership please contact Patty Milka, Director, Competitive Workforce at pmilka@foxcitieschamber.com.

We chose Lakeview because they understood us and our business.

Innovation and Trust…the two words that have defined McMAHON for the past 102 years. As thought leaders in waste-to-energy, transportation, stormwater management, sustainability and building design, McMAHON consistently creates solutions that are industry firsts that align with the long-term success of our clients. We challenge ourselves to provide unparalleled service and inspired design solutions.

Tim & Dave Bennett Visionary Metals

Money Made Easy www.lakeviewcu.org

www.mcmgrp.com NEENAH WI 920.751.4200

920-729-5100

MACHESNEY PARK IL 815.636.9590

VALPARAISO IN 219.462.7743

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

17

accolades, advancements and announcements

accolades Lakeview Credit Union recently received the 2011 Campaign Team of the Year Award in the Small Business Category (companies with up to 150 employees) from United Way Fox Cities. Six local businesses were finalists for the small business award, which was presented to the campaign team from Lakeview on January 18, 2012, at a United Way Fox Cities 2011 Campaign Celebration event held at Fox Valley Technical College. This award recognizes individuals and teams who display exemplary leadership in their company’s United Way annual fundraising campaign. Highlights of Lakeview Credit Unions’ 2011 United Way accomplishments include garnering 100% employee financial giving participation and increasing total employee giving by nearly 9% over the previous year. The Lakeview campaign featured silent auction fundraisers targeting credit union employees and members, as well as sales of cookbooks containing recipes submitted by Lakeview employees. With 43 employees at its three locations in the Fox Cities, Lakeview’s total 2011 fundraising efforts for United Way Fox Cities produced $13,100.05. Lakeview’s United Way Campaign Committee team included Chip Coenen, Tara Bitterman, Jessica Collier and Becky Dillenberg.

Leibold Associates Inc., a strategic marketing and packaging design firm, was recently awarded twelve 2012 American Graphic Design Awards sponsored by Graphic Design USA. The awards were received for KimberlyClark Huggies® Little Movers® Diapers packaging, CAMO Diapers packaging and CAMO Wipes packaging, Kimberly-Clark Huggies® Little Snugglers® Newborn Gift Set, seven different Huggies® Baby Wipes packages, and a Neenah Paper Environment Folding Board promotion.

The winning entries can be seen on the Leibold web site at www.leibold.com.

The Graphic Design USA competition is among the most prestigious and selective, with only 15% of over 8,000 entries being honored. Some of the award winning entries will be published in the Graphic Design USA Annual Report.

Lamers Bus Lines, Inc. has been presented the IMG

2012 Safety Award. The IMG Safety Award was presented to Lamers Bus Lines on Tuesday, January 10th, 2012, at the IMG’s recent Maintenance and Safety Conference in Grapevine, Texas. The award is presented annually to the company within the IMG organization who has demonstrated the highest level of safety throughout their organization. “Lamers not only meets the highest level of federal, state and local regulations, but goes above 18

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

and beyond implementing company safety measures that insures their employees and customers experience the safest work and transportation experience”, said IMG’s Director of Member Services and Purchasing, Mike Mattison.

advancements Goodwill Industries of North Central Wisconsin (NCW) has announced five new hires in

Menasha.

Goodwill’s Early Intervention Services (EIS) program has hired Susan Knuth as an occupational therapist and Heather Osheim as its new service coordinator/ interventionist. Knuth had previously been employed as an occupational therapist/early childhood special education teacher with the Menasha Area School District.

Osheim comes to Goodwill from the Shawano County Department of Community Programs where she was an early intervention specialist. Richie Davis is the new job developer with the Vocational Support Services (VSS) team. Prior to joining Goodwill NCW, he was a business career instructor with Goodwill of Southeastern Wisconsin.

Carly Zarda has been hired as a retail coordinator with Goodwill’s Retail Operations team. She was previously employed as a customer specialist with the KimberlyClark Corp. in Neenah. Daniel Pickar has joined the Menasha Retail Store and Training Center as an area team leader overseeing donations. Prior to Goodwill, he was an assistant store manager with PacSun in Oshkosh.

IPS Testing, the Appleton-based independent testing laboratory, has promoted Chris Reitmeyer to the role

of company Vice President. As Vice President, Reitmeyer will oversee testing services, operations and customer relations in addition to continuing to direct sales efforts for the company. A Green Bay native, Reitmeyer first joined IPS in 2010 as a sales engineer, utilizing his extensive sales background in the medical device and pharmaceutical industry as well as his experience in environmental research and development to offer sales and service expertise to IPS Testing clients.

Reitmeyer holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Water Resources from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and is the co-inventor of five United States patents.

Schenck would like to thank the following employees for

their years of service to our firm: 15 Years • Barbara McCabe, Payroll Processor

10 Years • Karen Holm, Practice Management Consultant • Michelle Kolasinski, Financial Analyst

• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with other individuals and organizations to enhance education in the region

5 Years • Stephanie Kolosso, Medical Coder • Dawn Krueger, Administrative Assistant

• Demonstrated ability to be an advocate for education as a measure of overall quality of life in the area.

announcements

• Demonstrated ability to think creatively to enhance education in the region

Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region has been recertified as meeting the national

standards for U.S. community foundations. Last certified in 2002, they are one of more than 450 community foundations certified nationally since 2000, and the second-largest of the 23 certified community foundations in Wisconsin. The review by the Community Foundations National Standards Board of the Arlington, Va.-based Council on Foundations required the compilation of three large binders containing 40 pounds of documentation. “Recertification verifies for the people who entrust us with their charitable dollars that the community foundation is following national best practices and operating with accountability and transparency,” Curt Detjen, president/CEO, said. “I think people who know us are confident about that, but it’s good to have an independent third party confirm it.”

The Appleton Education Foundation seeks nominations for the fifth annual Thomas G. Scullen Leadership Award. The award recognizes a Fox

Cities resident who is considered a leader in the field of education like its namesake, the late Thomas Scullen, an AEF founder and superintendent of the Appleton Area School District until his death in May 2007. The award honors Scullen’s memory and commitment to educational excellence in the AASD and the Fox Cities community.

“This award is more than a tribute to a great leader,” said Julie Krause, AEF executive director. “Over the years it has helped us highlight the value Fox Cities residents place on education and the quality of life we enjoy here.

It is a wonderful vehicle for the Foundation to recognize the efforts of those who take the lead in strengthening educational opportunities in our community.”

Nominations for the award will be accepted through February 29, 2012. Completed forms should be directed to the Appleton Education Foundation office, 122 E. College Ave., Suite 1-B, Appleton, WI 54911 or sent by Fax to (920) 832-1301.

Nominees will be evaluated for recognition based on the following criteria: • Strong history of sustained commitment to improving education in the Fox Cities

For more information about nominating someone for this award, contact Julie Krause, AEF executive director, at (920) 832-1517 or visit www.appletoneducationfoundation. org for a nomination form.

Keller, Planners, Architects and Builders, a

design/build general contractor with offices in Milwaukee, Madison, Wausau and the Fox Cities, will complete the 2,200 square foot build-out for Neptune Society under the direction of Keller Regional Manager, Bob Poch. Neptune Society representative, Rick Shaklovitz, is building a new sales office to provide affordable cremation services. Located at 1560 E. Moreland Boulevard in Waukesha, construction has begun and is expected to be completed March 1, 2012.

The Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau recently named its 2012 Board of Directors. Newly elected is Pam Zelinski of Financially Speaking, LLC. Cheryl Zaug Casey, Randy Kliment and Chadd Scott were re-elected. Zaug Casey will continue to serve as Board Chair until the transition to a new executive director for the Bureau is complete. “With the search for a new executive director underway, the Board believed it to be in the best interest of the Bureau that I continue on as Board Chair until Lynn Peters’ replacement is found,” commented Casey. “I am happy to serve this organization for the near future to ensure a smooth transition of leadership. I have worked in Wisconsin’s Tourism industry for many years, and I believe the Fox Cities CVB is one of the best in the state.” Joining Casey on the Bureau’s Executive Committee are: Jeff Nooyen, Vice Chair; Randy Kliment, Hampton Inn of Appleton, Secretary; and Jay Schumerth, Radisson Paper Valley Hotel and Conference Center, Treasurer. Other current Board members are: Terry Bergman, Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce; Al Schaefer, Village of Kimberly; Chris Haese, City of Neenah; Jan Smith, BergstromMahler Museum; John Van Drunen, City of Kaukauna representative; Karen Harkness, City of Appleton; Vicki Schneider, Village of Little Chute; John Burgland, General Manager of Fox River Mall; and Jeff Igel, Culinary Arts and Hospitality Department p28 Head at Fox Valley Technical College.

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

19

department updates

government affairs • Met with Rick Chandler, current Secretary of the Department of Revenue. Secretary Chandler shared with the committee that Governor Walker is attempting to stabilize taxes, keeping increases flatter, more reasonable and equitable.

• Attended a Transportation Commission hearing in Madison in January to reinforce the importance of a number of Fox Cities transportation initiatives including: the Kampo Bridge expansion, completion of the USH’s 10/41 interchange, and the upgrade of USH 41 to Interstate status.

• Over 200 Chamber members met with area legislators at the Chamber’s 23rd annual Meet Your Legislator

Business Connection in January. The gathering gave Chamber members easy access to state officials, as well as staffers representing members of our Congressional Delegation.

• The 10th Annual North East Wisconsin Chamber Coalition Breakfast brought together legislators, and business men and women from throughout North East Wisconsin to review the Coalition’s 2012 legislative agenda, as well as receive a copy of the legislator scorecard which noted how legislators voted on key business issues during the last session.

Attendees also heard from Senator Ron Johnson, Congressmen Reid Ribble and Tom Petri, and Todd Barry, President of the Wisconsin Taxpayers’ Alliance.

membership • Welcomed 34 new members during the 2nd quarter of fiscal year.

• Presidents Club members are planning for the Annual Chamber membership drive. If you know of a business that is not a Chamber member and should be, please contact the Chamber at 734-7101 or info@foxcitieschamber.com • Eduardo Sanchez, owner and his team at Solea Mexican Grill, are delighted to host the Business Connection on March 14, from 5-7 p.m. at their Neenah location, 1350 Gillingham Rd. Please join us to meet other Chamber members and build your business network. To register, please contact us at 734-7101 or go to our website – www. foxcitieschamber.com

20

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

• Continuing to seek new volunteers for the Chamber Ambassadors Club. Ambassadors are volunteers from Chamber member companies who volunteer their time serving as the goodwill arm of the Chamber.

Their activities include attending business ribbon cuttings and open houses, helping recruit new members and making outreach contacts to the Chamber membership. If you are interested, please contact the Chamber at 734-7101 or info@foxcitieschamber.com • The March 29th Breakfast Networking Connection is a great way to promote your business. This event is held at the Chamber office at 7:30 a.m. You will have 2 minutes to talk about your business, distribute business cards and brochures. To register, please contact us at 734-7101 or go to our website – www.foxcitieschamber.com

fox cities future 15 young professionals awards They have the opportunity to vote once per day on who they think should be a part of the Future 15. These votes will count for 10% of the vote.

Pulse and The Post-Crescent in partnership with UW Fox Valley are proud to announce The 2012 Future 15 Young Professional Awards. The Fox Cities is blessed to have thousands of young professionals who excel within their places of employment and in the community.

Once a year they recognize those individuals for the great work they do and their impact on our community.

These professionals not only excel in their respective fields and positively influence the quality of life in the Fox Cities, but they assist in attracting and retaining young talent to the area.

The Future 15 will be recognized at an event on Tuesday, May 15, 2012 at the Communication Arts Center on the campus of the University of WisconsinFox Valley and will be featured inside The Post-Crescent the following Sunday. Tickets are now available through the Chamber website: www.foxcitieschamber.com Sponsorships are still available for the Future 15 event.

This would provide a business with great exposure to a very desirable demographic as well as the community at large. If interested, please contact Pulse, The Young Professional Network at pulse@foxcitieschamber.com

Nominations were taken from January 26th to February 16th. Then, the public will also have the opportunity to get involved, as we will be posting all the candidates on the postcrescent.com website from March 11th – 18th.

chamber e-vents

Wisconsin’s Issues Are the Nation’s Issues

On Monday, March 12th at the Grand Meridian from 8:00–10:00 AM, The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and Industry along with The Heart of the Valley Chamber will host a breakfast meeting with Congressman Reid Ribble and Dr. Douglas Holtz-Eakin.

The conversation will include a look at the enormous impact of state and federal regulations on business, and the need for pro-growth corporate tax reform. Dr. Holtz-Eakin will also share his belief that Wisconsin’s budget and labor issues mirror the Nation’s budget and labor issues.

Dr. Holtz-Eakin has a distinguished record as an academic, policy adviser, and strategist. Currently, he is the President of the American Action Forum and most recently was a Commissioner on the Congressionally-chartered Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission.

Holtz-Eakin also served under two presidents as Senior Staff Economist, and Chief Economist of the President’s Council of Economic Advisers. At CEA he helped to formulate policies addressing the 2000-2001 recession and the aftermath of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

Cost: $20 per person Location: Grand Meridian, 2621 N. Oneida Street, Appleton Registration: www.foxcitieschamber.com

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

21

new members

We welcome new members to the Chamber Bishop Creative LLC Mr. Thomas Bishop 731 E. McKinley St. Appleton, WI 54915 (920) 358-0022 WEB DESIGN www.bishop-creative.com

Clear Home Loans Mr. Michael Cox 4090 Spencer St. Appleton, WI 54914 (262) 901-1457 MORTGAGE www.clearhomeloans.com

enVision Performance Solutions, LLC

Mr. Tom Wiltzius, Ph.D W6849 Marrihill Ct. Greenville, WI 54942 (920) 757-9191 MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT www.envisionperformancesolutions.com

Fox Valley Montessori Academy, LLC

Ms. Jamie Brandlin 301 E. First Ave. Appleton, WI 54911 (920) 830-3862 PRIVATE SCHOOL www.foxvalleymontessoriacademy.com

Fox Valley Symphony Orchestra Association, Inc.

One Sand Grain Family Consulting, LLC Ms. Jeanine Knapp 477 S. Nicolet Rd. Ste. 12 Appleton, WI 54914-8270 (920) 470-0151 Sponsor: Mark Scheffler TRAINING AND CONSULTING www.onesandgrain.com

Pearce Wireless

Ms. Amanda Gallagher 909 Tullar Rd. Neenah, WI 54956-3617 (920) 268-4100 CELLULAR PHONES www.pearcewireless.com

Ms. Tonia Derouin 2406 S. Alverno Rd. Manitowoc, WI 54220-9340 (920) 686-6175 Sponsor: Anne Neer UNIVERSITIES/COLLEGES www.sl.edu

SuperClean

Nation Consulting

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh College of Business

Natural Healthy Concepts

Wiltzius Associates, LLC

22

Ms. Lori Kumbalek 1500 West College Ave. Appleton, WI 54914 (920) 380-9236 HAIR SALON

Silver Lake College of The Holy Family

JOP Media LLP

Ms. Theresa Groskopp 310 N. Westhill Blvd.

Appleton, WI 54914 (920) 968-2360 Sponsor: Heather Vander Heyden NUTRITION www.naturalhealthyconcepts.com

Zen Salon

Ms. Abby Lutgen 4343 W. Wisconsin Ave. Appleton, WI 54913 (414) 962-4200 RESTAURANTS www.qdoba.com

Spring-Green Lawn Care

Mr. Jeff Blumb 2946 S. Telemark Circle Green Bay, WI 54313 (920) 328-5454 PUBLIC RELATIONS www.nationconsulting.com

Ms. Sandy Shultz 424 E. Wisconsin Ave. Appleton, WI 54911 (920) 739-8577 Sponsor: Ron Zahn FINANCIAL www.winchfinancial.com

Qdoba Mexican Grill

Ms. Jamie LaFreniere 111 W. College Ave. Ste. 550 Appleton, WI 54911 (920) 968-0300 Sponsor: Dennis Jochman NON-PROFIT AGENCY www.foxvalleysymphony.com Mr. Jeff Mayer 3501 W. Sunset Ct. Appleton, WI 54914 (920) 205-6606 Sponsor: Joanne Fischer ADVERTISING www.jeffsofficepools.com

Winch Financial

Mr. Bryan Braun 1332 Parkview Rd. Green Bay, WI 54304 (920) 337-2007 LAWN CARE www.spring-green.com/bbraun

Mr. Cesar Martinez 1807 W. Brewster St. Appleton, WI 54914 (920) 707-0990 CLEANING - RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL www.supercleannew.com

Mr. Bob O’Donnell 800 Algoma Blvd.

Oshkosh, WI 54901 (920) 424-1456 UNIVERSITIES/COLLEGES www.uwosh.edu/cob

Mr. Tom Wiltzius, Ph. D W6849 Marrihill Ct. Greenville, WI 54942 (920) 757-9191 MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT www.wiltziusassociates.com

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

DID YOU KNOW THAT FROM LAMBEAU FIELD TO THE MIRACLE MILE, magazine

REACHES 65,000 READERS EVERY MONTH?

networking tips

Networker or Connector – Which are You? Networkers move through a crowded business meeting room at the speed of light. They are quick with a smile, a handshake and business card but equally quick to move on to the next target. For years, networking was the buzzword on every Chamber website. Networking articles and tips abounded on the website. Speed Networking has been an event of choice. It was a race to pass out and collect as many business cards as one could in the course of an evening. Making contacts is not the same as building a connection. How much of a relationship can you build by just passing out business cards and using the ubiquitous “30 Second Elevator Speech?”

Connectors know the value of long-term relationships. When you first meet them, you seem to almost instantly begin talking with them like long lost friends. They listen and exude genuine interest. They intrinsically know that creating a relationship rather than an acquaintance rewards all in the long term.

Connectors become the “go-to” person for advice and “re-connects.” Bringing people together when they both trust and admire the Connector automatically creates a bond of trust between those people

and cements your reputation as a trusted advisor.

Connectors are willing to step outside of their normal circles. For instance, most people at an event will seek out friends at meetings and mealtimes. It’s easy to migrate towards people you know and are comfortable around. But that seldom creates new business. Sitting with someone you do not know is not easy. But that is the beauty of being a Connector. You view each meeting as an opportunity to build a relationship and connect them to others.

Twenty years ago, the world embraced technologybased communications and bullet-pointed conversations to the detriment of personal relationships. Today, the innate social nature of humans has rebounded to the forefront and business people everywhere are realizing the value of true relationships.

Be a Connector of People, Ideas and Business and your business will thrive.

What’s your

PASSION? Make it your

LEGACY. We can help.

Watch our new “Your Life. Your Legacy.” video at cffoxvalley.org/legacy

info@cffoxvalley.org 920-830-1290

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

2011 Legacy video ad.indd 1

23

11/30/11 2:45 PM

Signature Events Please check the Chamber website foxcitieschamber.com for updated information about each of the event dates, times, locations and costs.

You can register directly online.

Breakfast Networking Connections Fox Cities Chamber Office 125 N. Superior St., Appleton Last Thursday of the month 7:30-9:00 AM; $2 at the door January 26 February 23 March 29 April 26 May 31 June 28 July 26 August 30 September 27 October 25 November 29 December—no meeting

1 0 2

2P

g n i n lan

Legislative Dialogue Breakfast Monday, 1/30/12 Radisson Paper Valley Hotel 333 W. College Ave. , Appleton 7:15-9:00 AM $20/person

Economic Outlook Breakfast Wednesday, 2/1/12 Radisson Paper Valley Hotel 333 W. College Ave. , Appleton 7:30-9:00 AM $20/individual member; $225/table (10) member price $30/prospective member; $225/table (10) member price

Signature Symposium Series Wednesday, 2/1/12 Radisson Paper Valley Hotel 333 W. College Ave. , Appleton 9:00-11:45 AM $45/person

Business Awards & Business Expo Wednesday, 6/6/12 Radisson Paper Valley Hotel 333 W. College Ave. , Appleton Awards Luncheon 11:30 AM—1:30 PM Expo 1:30—5:00 PM Business Connection 5:00—7:00 PM

Golf Outing & Big Ball Drop Tuesday, 8/14/12 Butte des Morts Country Club 3600 W. Prospect Ave., Appleton Cost and time to be determined

Future 15 Awards Mid May

Details to be determined

The Event ~ Celebrating Business Mid October to early November Details to be determined

Business Connections

5:00-7:00 PM; $2 prior to the event; $4 at the door; $20/prospective member Monday, 1/23/12 Meet Your Legislators

Radisson Paper Valley Hotel 333 W. College Ave. , Appleton

Wednesday, 2/15/12

Fidelity National Bank 1500 N. Casaloma Dr. , Appleton

Wednesday, 3/14/12

Solea Mexican Grill 1350 Gillingham Rd., Neenah

Wednesday, 4/25/12

Tuesday, 7/17/12

Wednesday, 5/23/12

Tuesday, 8/21/12

Famous Dave’s 1170 N. Westhill Blvd., Appleton Waverly Beach N8770 Firelane 1, Menasha

Wednesday, 6/6/12

Part of the Business Expo Radisson Paper Valley Hotel 333 W. College Ave. , Appleton

Appleton Yacht Club 1200 S. Lutz Dr., Appleton

High Cliff Restaurant, Banquets and Catering W5095 Golf Course Rd., Sherwood

Tuesday, 11/6/12

Grand Meridian 2621 N. Oneida St., Appleton

September, October & December Dates & Locations to be determined

announcements continued from page 19 Ministry Health Care (Ministry) and Wheaton

Franciscan Healthcare (Wheaton) are announcing the transfer of sponsorship of Affinity Health System (Affinity) in Wisconsin’s Fox Valley. Ministry and Wheaton have been co-sponsors of Affinity since 1996. Effective February 8, Ministry assumes sole sponsorship of Affinity. Affinity is a network of three hospitals, 26 clinics, a medical group that includes nearly 300 providers, and 4,000 employees who serve the health care needs of the greater Fox Valley

24

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

area. In addition, Affinity’s Network Health Plan also provides health insurance benefits to more than 133,000 members in communities located throughout northeastern Wisconsin in 17 counties. Ministry’s sponsor, the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother, founded Affinity’s Mercy Medical Center in Oshkosh in 1891. Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare’s sponsor, the Wheaton Franciscan Sisters, founded Affinity’s St. Elizabeth Hospital in Appleton in 1899.

Built For You™ Nationwide Coverage, Devices & Plans Personalized for the Way You Live.

···································· ············· ··········· ········· ········· · · · · · · · ······ ········ ········· · ····· ·········· · · · · · ·· ··········· · · · · · ··········· · · · · · · · ··················································

LG Ignite™ / Motorola Milestone X2™

SAVOR THE EXPERIENCE

Catering & Banquet Facilities

Cellcom Retail Locations

3428 W. College Ave., Appleton W3178 Van Roy Road, Appleton 528 W. Northland Ave., Appleton 2241 Westowne Ave., Oshkosh www.cellcom.com

1.800.236.0055

www.cellcom.com

(920) 224-6370 (920) 224-6360 (920) 731-1000 (920) 230-1200

facebook.com/cellcom

Offer valid while supplies last. See Cellcom.com for details. Android is a trademark of Google, Inc. Trademarks and tradenames are the property of their respective owners.

• • • • • • •

•

Corporate Events WINN Celebrations ER 2007 & 2009 Restaurateur of Weddings the Year Family Parties Off Site Catering for up to 2000 Beautiful Open Meeting Space Open Atmosphere with Windows on the River Approved Caterer for the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center & Gardens of the Fox Cities

Any Retail Location

920-731-7271 111 East Kimball Street www.michielsfoxbanquets.com

2012 - Marketing Opportunities EVENTS Meet Your Legislators—January Business Connection with elected officials. Averaging 300+ attendees Premier Sponsors: Contributing Sponsors:

Golf Outing—August Premier Sponsor: Golf Cart Sponsor: Golf Lunch Sponsor: Golf Reception Sponsor: All in One Sponsor: Tee or Hole Sponsors: Beverage Sponsors:

$750 $500

Future 15 Young Professional Awards Premier Sponsors: $1,000

$3,000 $2,000 $1,500 $1,500 $ 800 $ 350 $ 100

Quarterly Business Symposiums Presenting Sponsor: $1,000 per symposium $3,500 for all 4 Career Fair—March Presenting Sponsor: Premier Sponsor: Contributing Sponsors: Small Business Sponsors:

$3,000 $1,000 $ 500 $ 250

A N N UAL S I G N AT U RE E V E NT S Economic Outlook Breakfast— February Results of the economic outlook survey are presented. Averaging 600+ attendees Presenting Sponsor: Premier Sponsors: Contributing Sponsors:

$2,500 $1,000 $ 500

Business Awards—June Presenting Sponsors: Premier Sponsors:

$7,500 $1,000

Business Expo—June Together with the Business Awards Program.

Presenting Sponsors: $2,500 Premier Sponsors: $1,500 Contributing Sponsors: $ 750

P RO G R AM S Pulse, Young Professionals Network Opportunity to sponsor monthly events ($600), annual CEO Breakfast or Future 15 Awards ($1,500 each).

Pulse CEO Breakfast Presenting Sponsor: Leadership Fox Cities LFC Retreat LFC Graduation LFC Executive Program LFC Youth Program

$1,500

$2,500 $1,500 $1,500 $1,500 Opportunity to sponsor monthly events ($600), annual 8 month program or Executive Leadership Program ($1,500 each).

26

Christa McAuliffe Academy Many opportunities for class, tour or break sponsorships. Contact the Chamber for more information.

F.O.C.U.S. / STEM F.O.C.U.S. (fostering our communities understanding of STEM – science, technology, engineering and math) a shared resource and economic system for all things related to STEM in the Fox Cities including mentoring of students in grades 5-9. Please contact the chamber for more information on how you can become involved in the development of our future workforce.

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

The Event—mid-October to early November Annual Meeting averaging 900 attendees Presenting Sponsor: Premier Sponsors: Contributing Sponsors: Corporate Packages:

$10,000 $ 5,000 $ 2,500 $ 750

A DV E RT IS I N G Fox Cities Chamber Business, the Chamber’s monthly print magazine, has 85,580 touches in the business community per issue, reaching business owners, senior level executives, managers, supervisors, sales & marketing and small business owners.

Contact Susan Vanden Heuvel for an editorial calendar and rate sheet.

Member411, the Chamber’s bi-weekly e-newsletter reaches 3,000 email addresses.

Chamber Mobile App $500 for 6 months

out and about

Member Mingle

Tom Wiltizus Leads Symposium Discussion

Fox Cities Chamber Business MARCH 2012

27

ADVERTISING RESERVATION DEADLINE IS MARCH 9TH LAST CHANCE TO ADVERTISE IN THE Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce & Industry 2012 Community Profile & Membership Directory • IN PRINT • ONLINE • eBOOK • iPHONE APP • ANDROID APP • 24/7 MOBILE ACCESS Dear Chamber Member, The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce & Industry is partnering with Village Profile® to produce our 2012 Community Profile & Membership Directory publication in both a traditional print version and also in a digital format online.

Thousands of new, full-color printed publications will provide a comprehensive guide to the Fox Cities area as well as an overview of the community. The publication will be distributed to visitors, businesses, new families and local residents. In addition to the thousands of printed publications, the 2012 Fox Cities Community Profile & Member Directory will be available online, 24/7 around the world.

Prominent editorial sections include information concerning local real estate and tourism, business and industry, healthcare, dining, lodging and much more!

Thank You...To our participating advertisers as of February 20th Appleton Downtown, Inc. Appleton Group Wealth Management, LLC Associated Bank Bergstrom Mahler Museum Children's Hospital of Wisconsin - Fox Valley Coldwell Banker-The Real Estate Group, Inc Dr. Roger Stanek

Faith Technologies First National Bank - Fox Valley Fox Banquets Fox Valley Technical College Goodwill Harris & Associates, Inc Integrity Insurance

Lakeview Credit Union McMahon Group Miron Construction Co. Inc Network Health Plan-Affinity Health Sysytem Outagamie County Regional Airport Radisson Paper Valley Hotel UW Fox Valley

Sincerely,

Shannon Full President & CEO

For more information, contact Brian Ewerdt on his cell at 414-915-7379 or at the Fox Cities Chamber about information/space reservations at 920-734-7101 and fax the form below to 920-734-7161.

Yes, I am interested in advertising in the new edition of the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce 2012 Community Profile & Membership Directory Contact name____________________________________________________________________________________________ Business name __________________________________________________________________________________________ City ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone____________________________________________ Fax _________________________________________________

Our award-winning

business services include a full range of accounts and options to meet all of your business’ financial needs. As a local, member-owned financial, your loan and deposit accounts are with someone you trust!

Stop in to find out how we can save your business time and money!

• SBA Preferred & SBA Express Lender • Local Lending Decisions • 401(k), SEP & SIMPLE Planning • Merchant Credit Card Services APPLETON

2626 S. Oneida St. 509 N. Richmond St. 2701 N. Ballard Rd. 455 S. Nicolet Rd. 1235 W. Spencer St.

DARBOY

W6089 Cty. Rd. KK

GREENVILLE

N1230 Cty. Rd. CB

NEENAH

125 E. Forest Ave. 2300 Industrial Dr.

OSHKOSH

2424 Westowne Ave. 1492 W. South Park Ave.

DE PERE

1700 Lawrence Dr.

FOX VALLEY TECHNICAL COLLEGE

• Business Checking that Pays Dividends • Investment and Insurance Services • Free 24-Hour Online Account Access

MANITOWOC

1100 S. 30th St.

WAUPACA

1006 Royalton St.

NEW LONDON

603 W. Wolf River Ave.

NICHOLS

W5644 Cty. Rd. F

Appleton Campus, Entrance 10

Call (920) 830-7200 or visit www.communityfirstcu.com

FO X C ITIES

C HA M B ER

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

Sponsored by:

PERIODICAL POSTAGE

PAID

AT APPLETON, WI