Fox Cities Chamber Business - December 2013 by Fox Cities Chamber

CHAMBER

DECEMBER 2013 Volume 14, Issue 6

FOX CITIES

Year in Review • READY-TO-BUILD PROGRAM LAUNCHES • HEALTH CARE REFORM: WHAT LIES AHEAD • OUT & ABOUT: CHAMBER CANDIDS

THE EVENT CELEBRATING BUSINESS SUCCESS PAGE 28

www.foxcitieschamber.com

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this issue

VOLUME 14, ISSUE 6 | DECEMBER 2013

Every Issue

Features

Highlights

2 PRESIDENTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PERSPECTIVE Views from Chamber President/CEO Shannon Meyer Full

Ready-to-Build Program Launches

Affinity Plan Partners

24 Pulse

Skill-Ready Facilities Open at FVTC

NEW MEMBERS

OUT AND ABOUT

Health Care Reform: What Lies Ahead

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Power Through Partnership

Should We Use Barcodes or Scanning Devices?

The Importance of Following Through

Three Ways to Great Customer Service

Cover Story 4 Year in Review

Businesses of the Month

The Event Award Winners

Fox Cities

Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Fox Cities Chamber Business (v 259180). Published quarterly 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. Postmaster: Send address changes to: Fox Cities Chamber Business, PO Box 1855, Appleton, WI 54912-1855. Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

president’s perspective

ear Members, Greetings to all of you; I hope you are having a very profitable and prosperous year. This edition of the magazine is focusing on our Annual Report. You will find a lot of information about the successes and challenges of the chamber over the last year. Our team continues to focus on assisting you with your business needs to enhance your business and grow our community. I would like to highlight just a few recent happenings – THE EVENT, FAM Tour, Octoberfest, and finally, the legacy of one amazing lady. First, we had another spectacular annual meeting in THE EVENT. More than 700 business and community leaders brought out their best formal gowns and tuxedos and joined us as we honored numerous business leaders for their contributions to the community. For the third year, the PAC was our host and our attendees were entertained by three talented acts – newVoices, Lawrence Academy Girl Choir and Janet Planet. Congratulations to the recipients of our awards: Business Hall of Fame Inductees – Oscar Boldt and Cathie Tierney, Gus A. Zuehlke Distinguished Service Award – John Bykowski, Athena Award – Beth Davis, Entrepreneur of the Year – Debra Michiels, Exceptional Mentor – Kathy Westover, Champion of the Chamber – Ron Zahn, and Young Professional of the Year – John Weyenberg. Thank you to all of you who attended and to our amazing sponsors. This event would not be possible without the sponsorship support of Baker Tilly – Presenting Sponsor; Community First, Chase, Modern Woodmen and Spark Advertising – Premier Sponsors; Bergstrom Automotive – Athena Sponsor; and 15 Contributing Sponsors and 10 Corporate Packages. It was an evening of business celebration, and one that will not soon be forgotten.

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

Our team continues to focus on assisting you with your business needs to enhance your business and grow our community. The Fox Cities Regional Partnership (the economic development division of the chamber) has been actively working with our existing industries on challenges, expansion opportunities, supply chain development, etc. We also had the opportunity to host eight site location consultants (responsible for corporation relocation and expansions) to our area for two and a half days to familiarize them with our region and the assets that we have here. It was a very beneficial experience for them and us. Again, we had numerous partners that made this happen, including: Miron Construction – Dave and Jane Voss, Commercial Horizons, Outagamie County Airport, CopperLeaf Hotel, Green Bay Packers, Lamers Bus, General Beverage, Fox Valley Technical College, and all of our business and community leaders that served as panelists, host and gift basket suppliers. The eight site location consultants provided a debrief of their experience here. It is very intriguing to watch and can be found at http://youtu.be/NCcM8WPDvi8. Octoberfest experienced another record-breaking year. Many people do not realize that Octoberfest is a chamber event, but we are so lucky to have an event that allows us to generate revenue to be used as grants for our local non-profits. The Octoberfest Committee is an amazing group of dedicated volunteers who put in countless hours all to give back to the community. Thank you to each of you for making this event so very special. Last year, we were able to give back more than

Chairman of the Board Kip Golden Miron Construction Co., Inc. Chairman-Elect Daniel P. Ferris SECURA Insurance Companies Past Chairman Greg Bell WHBY Secretary/Treasurer Bruce Zak JPMorgan Chase, N.A. Board Members Kevin Eismann Epiphany Law, LLC Robyn Gruner AT&T Mayor Gary Henke City of New London Sharon Hulce Employment Resource Group Inc. Dave Jansen ThedaCare Dennis Jochman The Bechard Group Lyssa King W by Worth John Krause Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP Vic Lutz McMahon Jen Wagner Mauk Affinity Health System Robert Pedersen Goodwill NCW Jay Shambeau Calumet County Monica Vomastic Landmark Staffing Resources

Publisher Shannon Meyer Full Editor Melody Lane Buller Design Coalesce, Inc. Photography Craig Augustine Printing JP Graphics Inc. Advertising Sales Susan Vanden Heuvel, 920-734-7101

$75,000 in grants; each food venue on the avenue donates their proceeds from the day to a non-profit as well. I hope everyone continues to come out, drink lots of beer and support our community. Finally, last but certainly not least, we were all tremendously saddened by the death of Joyce Bytof. I know many of you knew Joyce personally and most of you have read about all of her many accolades, but I wanted you all to know that she definitely left her mark on this organization as well. Joyce served three terms on the board at the chamber and was involved in almost every one of our committees. She loved planning events, giving input on the direction of the chamber, and lobbying for business growth and a strong business climate. She was one of the first inducted into the Business Hall of Fame and also received numerous other awards from the chamber. She not only lead

one of the most successful real estate businesses in the country – Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group – but she was a pillar of this community and truly believed in giving more than receiving. Joyce also made a tremendous impact on my life as well. When I arrived here three years ago, she personally took me under her wing and was adamant that she would help me be successful in the community. She taught me so many things about treating people with respect, keeping your word, living life passionately, and making each and every day count. One thing that I will forever remember about Joyce is she loved her time in Mexico. My husband and I were lucky enough to spend our honeymoon at Moon Palace when Joyce and Otto were there, and that time we spent together was so very precious. As luck would have it, our daughter Finley was conceived in Mexico, and then ironically, or maybe

just as Joyce planned it, was born on Joyce’s birthday. I could not ask for a better gift than to have our precious little one celebrate the same day that Joyce is celebrating from above. I will miss her tremendously and I wish her family comfort. I know I will always live her motto, “If it is to be, it’s up to me.”

Shannon Meyer Full President/CEO

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

year in review

Membership • Achieved 91.0% membership retention. • Added 89 new members. • Offered 12 monthly Business Connections for membership networking.

• Launched quarterly BizBlend Breakfasts to highlight membership information and community speakers. • Celebrated 48 ribbon cuttings in the fiscal year 2012-2013.

Marketing & Communications • Communicated the successes, projects and events of the Fox Cities Chamber and our membership through: • 24 Business News Publications – reaching 11,000 individuals • 52 Up2DATE e-blasts – reaching 3,100 individuals • 24 Member 411’s – reaching 3,100 individuals • 10 Issues of the Fox Cities Business Magazine – reaching potentially 7,500 individuals

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

• 389 Member Press Releases distributed to the Media, LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook accounts • 147 Mentions for members and Chamber in printed media • 330 blog posts on the Fox Cities Chamber Blog • Redesigned and provided a cost effective advertising opportunity to our members through the Member 411 e-blast 24 times during the year with a reach of 3,100 people. • Launched the new Fox Cities

Chamber website, updating the look, content and ease of use. • Introduced the Fox Cities Chamber App with a goal of giving our members a cost effective mobile platform for their business marketing. • Restructured the Up2Date e-blasts to reflect a clean, consistent and abbreviated advertising medium. • Created the Fox Cities Chamber Blog for members to post stories and announcements.

Fox Cities Regional Partnership houses current information on the following, but not limited to:

The mission of the Fox Cities Regional Partnership is to enhance the local economy, expand economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for local residents by supporting the expansion of the local primary job base. During fiscal year 2012/2013, the Fox Cities Regional Partnership initiated its program efforts in support of an expanded local primary job base. To this end, the Partnership put several program elements in place, including: • The launch of a state-of-the-art economic development website focused on a targeted audience of site selection consultants. The website

• The region’s labor shed • Infrastructure • Tax and regulatory climate • Available economic incentives • Community amenities • Education and demographic information • Industry profiles • The launch of a GIS-enabled web-based real estate database, including the region’s available commercial and industrial property— searchable by size, type and location. The database also allows the user to construct demographic, consumer expenditure, wage and salary, and business census reports at a radius or commute time of the user’s choosing around a selected property. • Formal, individual in-person contacts with more than 40 site

selection consultants for the purpose of marketing the Fox Cities Region as a business location. • Existing industry retention/ expansion program, designed to establish working relationships with executive leadership of our firms for the purpose of identifying and aggregating positive and negative trends within various sectors, providing resources and assistance, as well as efforts to identify and mitigate issues that have put employers at risk. • The development of a Ready-toBuild program of industrial site readiness. Working in conjunction with members of the Fox Cities Economic Development Partnership (FCEDP), this program promotes completion of due-diligence associated with making sites “shovelready.”

Competitive Workforce F.O.C.U.S. (fostering our communities understanding of STEM, science technology, engineering and math) sponsored the “Mind Trekkers” (of Michigan Tech) event at UW-Fox Valley where more than 3,000 middle and high school students had the opportunity to explore STEM through more than 100 hands-on activities. Nearly 3,000 8th graders from 20 middle schools throughout the Fox

Cities attended the 7th Annual Fox Cities 8th Grade Career Fair at Player’s Choice in Appleton. More than 100 professionals helped inspire students through their hands-on presentations. A relationship management website was developed and tested that streamlines the process of connecting education and industry. Driven by local businesses and industries, the website supports student understanding of

and participation in the labor market as an important part of effective career guidance. Educators will have access to classroom speakers and company tours. Seven local high schools will implement the website during the 2013/14 school year. This tool was made possible through our partnership with Omni Resources.

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

year in review

Advocacy FEDERAL • Worked with the Great Lakes Metro Chamber Coalition to secure language in the new Transportation Funding Bill that would require the Federal Government to recognize the Great Lakes as a single system, increasing both its visibility and leverage with respect to getting needed projects funded. • Joined a coalition of Chambers participating in monthly conference calls with top White House policy specialists and Cabinet Secretaries to receive timely policy updates, and to share the business perspective with regard to key issues. • Participated in newly created monthly conference calls uniting Chamber Advocates from around the country. It has become a wonderful resource for sharing strategies and tactics that have been “battle tested.” • Shared with Congressmen Reid Ribble and Tom Petri, the Chamber’s perspective regarding what members perceive as the most onerous aspects of the federal tax code.

STATE • Testified before the Senate Transportation Committee in support of a statewide referendum to create a Constitutional Amendment protecting the state Transportation Trust Fund from being used for purposes other than transportation related items. • Helped secure the passage of a responsible and comprehensive mining bill.

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

• Supported legislation creating an income and franchise tax credit equal to 30% of the amount an employer pays to provide a workplace wellness program to his or her employees. • Supported legislation that would eliminate the state’s estate tax beginning with deaths occurring after Jan. 1, 2013. • Supported legislation creating a venture capital program anchored by $25 million in state funds. • Supported legislation providing transparency in claims made against personal injury trusts created under the federal bankruptcy code and also filed in the tort system against existing businesses. • Supported legislation that would make an injunction that suspends or restrains the enforcement of a state law subject to immediate appeal to the state Supreme Court or an appellate court. The bill also allows for a judicial injunction to be stayed if certain actions are taken by the Supreme Court or an appellate court. • Supported legislation that provided a more balanced approach to the lemon law by repealing double damages, reducing the statute of limitations from six years to three, and allowing manufacturers 45 days to provide a replacement vehicle and 120 days for a heavy-duty truck rather than the 30 days provided for either under current law. • Successfully fought to get, and then keep, the USH’s 10/41/441 intersection and bridge project on the Transportation Department’s Major Projects funding list.

• Successfully worked for the upgrade of USH 41 to Interstate status and the renaming of the completed project as Interstate Highway 41. • Supported legislation granting the Fox Cities the ability to create a Regional Transit Authority in an effort to help provide funding stability to this transportation alternative. • Participated in Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce Workforce Paradox Conference in an effort to brainstorm strategies surrounding how best to share with students the tremendous career opportunities available in the field of manufacturing.

LOCAL • Met with area elected CEOs and professional municipal administrators quarterly to discuss the impact of ACT 10 on local governments and opportunities for additional cooperation. • Met with Rick Chandler, the Secretary of the Department of Revenue, to discuss efforts by the Administration to get a handle on state spending. • Facilitated a meeting between Chamber members and the Regional Director of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, Will Dorsey, to discuss local high priority transportation projects currently underway and on the drawing board. • Created opportunities for members to receive issues updates first-hand from members of their congressional delegation.

Leadership Fox Cities Leadership Fox Cities is a community driven leadership program helping to create new and upcoming community leaders. Not only does this traveling classroom format teach and expose participants to the many facets of our community, the challenges we face and the obstacles we’ve already overcome, but it also teaches leadership through collaboration and stepping up and out of their comfort zones. Some of the areas covered are Human Services, Health & Wellness, Business & Commerce, Government & Media, Law Enforcement, The Arts, and Environment & Sustainability. In addition to the class time, participants

Pulse

• Increased membership for Pulse by 16%. • Increased attendance to annual CEO Breakfast by 45%.

are also broken into small groups with the expectation that they create and execute a community driven project during the course of the year. The Leadership Fox Cities Youth program completed its pilot year with 21 high school juniors from throughout the Appleton Area School District. Now in its second year, there are 25 students from Appleton North, Appleton East, Appleton West, Valley New School, Kimberly, Little Chute and Menasha High Schools. These students also learn about different facets of our community, undertake a community driven project, and are exposed to many different professionals in the

community and different career paths as a result. The Executive Leadership Fox Cities program is designed for those in upperlevel positions (e.g. C-level individuals, VPs, etc.). It is a far more condensed version of the traditional program and is held primarily after hours. This group meets at a different location every time, but the content is brought to them. It is also designed for the participant and a guest. The idea is that new people brought to the area will include his or her spouse or significant other, so that both parties can learn about and get plugged in to the community.

• Increased attendance to Future 15 Young Professional Awards by 25% from the previous year. • Increased attendance for Timber Rattlers Social. Contributed more than 150 hours of

service to organizations that improve the quality of living for individuals and families in need.

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

economic development

Ready-to-Build Program Launches I

t should be no surprise that companies with an expansion or corporate relocation project are riskaverse. They generally do not like to call attention to themselves, and they avoid controversy and uncertainty like the plague. Anything that would constitute a surprise or trigger additional scrutiny or review can be enough to have a prospect pull the plug on a project—or at least to have them eliminate that particular community from further consideration. For that reason, communities and property owners should strive to assure that when they propose a particular property for development, all the “i’s” are dotted and the “t’s” are crossed in advance. Inappropriate zoning, issues around property control, undefined environmental contamination—these and many other factors will very frequently spell the end of a process that might have otherwise brought jobs and new investment to a community. Companies with projects and the site selection consultants who serve

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

them are increasingly focusing their search on sites that have completed sufficient advance due diligence to gain some form of certification. This certification is intended to minimize client risk, and to convey the fact that the site in question is “shovel ready.” The importance of the certification designation is directly related to the inherently competitive nature of economic development. Those property owners who have made the investment to address development and infrastructure issues in advance are finding that they most often have a leg up on competitors who wait to address items of concern—causing delay and potentially eroding confidence in the ability of the property owner to deliver. In order to better-qualify the industrial sites offered in the Fox Cities Region, the Regional Partnership, working in conjunction with members of the Fox Cities Economic Development Partnership (FCEDP) and the GIS Users Group have developed and launched a site-readiness program called Ready-to-Build. The

program requires property owners to satisfactorily address development issues, such as infrastructure location and sizing, environmental review and several other factors, in advance and submit an application detailing all pertinent data for review. The program does not include the State certification that is typically conducted by a third-party consulting firm (at significant cost), but positions the property owner to pursue such certification if they choose. Those Fox Cities properties that complete the application process and are deemed Ready-to-Build will be highlighted as featured sites on the Regional Partnership website.

Larry Burkhardt, CEcD

Executive Vice President Fox Cities Regional Partnership

lifestyle . corporate . conceptual . product . industrial . architectural

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affinity plan partners Partnering with organizations that offer services to Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce member businesses at a discounted rate is one of the many ways the Chamber brings value to your membership. Take advantage of these opportunities and get a great service for a discounted price.

Cost Management Integrity Cost Management is the Chamber’s newest Affinity Plan partner. They help businesses make sure they are getting the best value from their suppliers. With its national supplier network, group buying power and knowledge of industry pricing, ICM’s team of profit improvement specialists helps balance the power equation between businesses and their suppliers to achieve average savings for 15-30 percent in more than 50 common cost areas, including health insurance, office products and many more. ICM works on a share-ofsavings basis, so there are no upfront fees, no net cost and no risk. Call Dave Conlin at 920-358-9403, or email him at dconlin@integritycost.com, to find out how you can reduce your operating expenses and improve your bottom line in as little as eight weeks.

Office Depot The Chamber and Office Depot Business Services have aligned to offer a national program to Fox Cities Chamber members. The program offers members the buying power for online, phone, fax and in-store Office Depot purchases as if your business bought in volumes as large as all national Chamber members combined. In addition to office supply discounts, participating Chamber members are entitled to discounts on in-store copy and print services and Tech Depot technology purchases. For more information, email Gregory Breister at gregory.breister@ officedepot.com.

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

Telecommunication Consulting Telecom Insites has partnered with the Chamber to review members telecom bills that could help save between 20-35 percent on their telecom services. There is no charge for this service unless there is a savings. If your company is interested in having its telecom bills reviewed, please contact Joanne Fischer Chastain, President of Telecom Insites, at 920-540-0841.

Training New Horizons of Wisconsin has partnered with the Chamber to save all Chamber members an immediate 20 percent on professional training services provided by New Horizons. This program is exclusively for Chamber members and provides, at a significant savings, individualized training solutions supporting the positive economic, political and social climate in the Fox Cities. For more information, contact Patrick Riley at 967-6000.

Wireless Cellcom has partnered with the Chamber to provide discounted wireless plans and business solutions for all members. Cellcom is a local, family-run company. Its employees live here, work here and the revenue generated stays in local communities. Cellcom strives to give back to not only local charities, but also local businesses through special partnerships, like the Chamber’s Affinity Program. For more information on Cellcom’s Chamber partnership, or for a complimentary cost analysis, please contact local support specialist Michele Koehler at 920-224-6354 or Michele.Koehler@ cellcom.com.

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Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

education

Skill-Ready Facilities Come to Life at FVTC from Passage of 2012 Referendum

When voters said “yes” by a 2-1 margin in favor of Fox Valley Technical College’s public referendum in April of 2012, the passage advanced several facility projects to meet regional employer needs. The first of these projects to be unveiled was the 66,000 square-foot, three-story Health Simulation and Technology Center (HSTC) on FVTC’s Appleton campus this fall. The HSTC houses mannequin-like, high-tech simulation technology from “newborn to adult” for best practice training in the fields of emergency medical services, nursing and more. The first floor consists of eight hospital beds and an ambulance simulator, as well as the latest audio-visual technology to improve the simulation experience for FVTC students and existing health care professionals for continuous education. The second floor focuses on training students for employment in a clinic or laboratory setting. Students who train as medical assistants, phlebotomists and health information technology technicians find several simulated experiences to boost their education. The third floor features training labs for rehabilitative therapy and home health care. It includes mock home settings such as a kitchen, bathroom, living room and bedroom. These areas help students learn adaptive home strategies for their clients. “For too long critical care providers have trained separately, and now

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

Inside Fox Valley Tech’s three-story Health Simulation and Technology Center.

Fox Valley Tech is a key contributor in growing and developing our region’s workforce. Kim Wetzel Foundation Director Bemis Company Foundation

Post your job openings on Wisconsin TechConnect, your online resource for Wisconsin technical college graduates. It’s fast, easy to use, and free!

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they’re integrated thanks to this new facility and our community,” says Bob Sternhagen of FVTC’s Health division. “These training scenarios could mean the difference between life and death or a poor patient outcome.” FVTC unveiled another project this fall that was part of the spring 2012 referendum – the 3,000 squarefoot expanded and newly renamed Service Motor Company Agriculture Center. Service Motor Company provided $1.1 million to FVTC in the form of scholarships, equipment and monetary support in exchange for naming rights. The new Appleton campus facility features expanded lab space, in addition to a state-of-the-art horticulture tissue lab. Even at first glance, the new centers are turning heads. “I’ve been to a lot of technical colleges, and I’m blown away at the programs and facilities at Fox Valley Tech,” says Brandon Talbert of Austin Consulting in Cleveland. “The technical training resources are right here at this remarkable college.” Talbert was one of eight site selectors who visited the region as part of the Fox Cities Chamber’s Regional Partnership initiative, designed to attract new businesses to the area. To learn more about all FVTC referendum projects, visit www.fvtc.edu/facilitiesplan.

“I’m blown away at the programs and facilities at Fox Valley Tech.” — Brandon Talbert of Austin Consulting in Cleveland

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Outside Fox Valley Tech’s newly renamed Service Motor Company Agriculture Center. Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

featured column

Health Care Reform: What Lies Ahead A

lthough some uncertainty still exists surrounding the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, there are certain provisions coming into effect in 2014 that businesses and individuals must prepare for. Here are highlights of the more significant provisions for 2014, so you know how you and your business will be affected in the year ahead. • Small Employer Health Insurance Credit. To be eligible for this credit, employers must pay at least 50% of premium costs. For tax years beginning after December 31, 2013 the credit will be increasing to 50% of the employer contribution. The credit will only be available to employers that purchase group insurance through the SHOP insurance marketplace. • Insurance Marketplace. Individuals and small employers can now purchase insurance on the federal and state insurance marketplaces. Individuals must purchase their insurance through the marketplace to receive a premium assistance credit.

• Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) Insurance Marketplace. This marketplace is for small employer groups, generally fewer than 50 employees in Wisconsin. The goal is to allow each employee to purchase whatever coverage they choose under the employer group plan. • Premium Assistance Credit. A refundable income tax credit will become available for low or moderate income families. It limits the amount of premium that a person will pay for insurance on the insurance marketplace. • Individual Mandate to Carry Health Insurance. A tax will be assessed on individuals who do not maintain minimum essential health insurance coverage for themselves and their dependents. The tax is the greater of a flat dollar or a calculation based on the taxpayer’s household income. • Reinsurance Fee. This fee will apply to insurance companies and selfinsured group health plans for the years 2014 to 2016. Fully insured group health plans are not subject to this fee; however, they may experience higher premiums.

• Notice 2013-54. HRAs can no longer have an annual limit on benefits unless the HRA is integrated with your employer group health plan, is a retiree-only plan, or is limited to dental, vision, long-term care, or other excepted benefits under HIPAA. Also, many insurance companies are offering early renewal of policies before December 31, 2013. Early renewal could help keep your premium increases to a minimum and delay some of the health care reform provisions for another year (policies starting before January 1, 2014 will not be impacted by some of the provisions). For additional information on the highlights above or any other provisions of the Acts please consult your tax advisor. Rebecca Smith can be reached at rebecca. smith@schencksc.com or 800-236-2245.

Rebecca Smith, CPA Tax Manager, Schenck SC

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

Did we cat ch yo ur e? ey

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Printing ... as Promised

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

featured column

Power Through Partnership

f the goal of marketing is to increase demand for our products or services, why are we still thinking “inside the box”? Because it’s comfortable, proven and safe? This article is designed not as a “how to do,” but rather, as a “how to think” piece on what is possible when we step away from the norm to achieve success. Stop thinking in terms of buying “space” and “time,” but rather creating content that shows how your product, service or knowledge can impact lives. We’ve gotten very good at ignoring advertising because we automatically know where to look for it. Instead of spending thousands of dollars on space that isn’t permanent, why not focus first on pooling your financial and media resources to partner with other brands to offer engaging, inspiring and informative content. A great local example of this at work is the recent collaboration

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

between ThedaCare and Mayo Clinic. Both companies have an aligned vision of being recognized as a leader in quality and patient experience with an overall goal of improving the delivery of healthcare. Now with this partnership, ThedaCare and Mayo Clinic don’t have to rely on just the media alone for access to their audience; what they should ask of themselves is who already owns their audience. Local schools could be a good place to start. What if they can together create a compelling online children’s video series that promotes a healthy living and eating lifestyle directed at children and their parents? Wouldn’t this align with one of their focuses – to address rising healthcare costs by getting children to start healthy habits at a young age? This is just one example, but the point is together they can create content of value that solidifies relationships

with the audience they already have and attract the audience they want. By pooling resources with other brands that value the same prospects and customers as you do, you may find yourself in position to create just the right kind of content that will increase demand and sales for your product or service while making your marketing dollars go further.

Ryan Weyers Sure-Dry Basement Systems, Inc.

featured column

Should We Use

Barcodes or Scanning

Devices?

ave you ever wanted to automate data collection? Have you ever wanted to track time, product movement, and/or production? Do you struggle to track items on service vehicles or in warehouses? Do you ever manually enter and rekey data into Excel or other software programs? Do you worry about data entry errors and wonder if everything is correct? If you answered “yes” to any of the above questions, it is probably time to look at the advantages of using barcodes and scanning devices. While you may need to invest a few dollars in getting the hardware and software configured, the payback could be substantial. Here are a few benefits to consider:

Automate Data Collection/ Streamline Processes — Barcodes and scanning devices allow you to automate data collection. Consider tracking time by having employees scan

in and out of work orders, jobs or a simple time tracking system. Scan items in when received, transferred when moved and out once shipped.

Save Time & Reduce Errors — Mistakes made during manual entry are significantly higher than that of barcodes. A barcode scan is fast and reliable. It also takes infinitely less time than entering data by hand.

Better Decision Making — Because data is obtained rapidly and accurately, it is possible to make more informed decisions. Better decisionmaking ultimately saves both time and money. Easy to Use — Barcode scanners are easy to use and allow reduced employee training time, as it only takes minutes to master handheld scanners. Speed Up Data Entry — Speed up data entry and save time by adding barcodes to your printed forms (i.e. sales orders, work orders, pick lists, etc.)

so you may scan fields instead of typing them in manually. Accuracy — Data entry often includes keyboard errors. Barcode accuracy is exact (for all practical purposes). Barcodes are Relatively Inexpensive to Design and Print Various barcode fonts are available. It could be as simple as purchasing Azalea Fonts and adding a barcode to a printed form.

Tina Beck, CPA Competitive Strategies, Inc.

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

featured column

The Importance of Following Through A

s strange as it seems, some of the basic principles of building business relationships are so easily forgotten. One of these basic principles is following through on things you commit to. It is Business Basics 101 and something relatively simple, but following through can leave a lasting impression on prospects, customers and colleagues in a positive way. On the other side of that, not following through with things can easily leave a bad taste in someone’s mouth. Why is following through with things valuable to you? Well, when you say you are going to do something and follow through consistently, it proves you are reliable and trustworthy. It would be hard to argue that these are not two important characteristics to have in today’s increasingly competitive business landscape. Sometimes remembering the small details is just

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

as important as remembering the big action items that were covered. Following through on all of them is critical. So how do you go about keeping your word when it comes to following through with things you say you are going to do? Here are two super easy tips that can help keep you on top of things:

Take Notes When you are talking with someone and an action item comes up, make a note of it on your Smartphone using an app like MobisleNotes (or jot it down in your planner if you’re a bit more traditional). It is all too easy to forget about something that was talked about only briefly.

Don’t Overextend Yourself If you are simply too busy to do something, don’t overextend yourself. At the time it may seem nice to say you

will do something for someone else, but if talking about it is as far as it goes, don’t even bother. If you can’t follow through, follow up through an email, phone call or text message. Of course, things come up. Kids get sick, clients rearrange your schedule, cars break down, and trains stop in the middle of the road and start backing up, but it comes down to one simple thing: whenever possible, follow through!

Todd Jensen and Melissa Rucker Rocketship Marketing LLC

featured column

3 to W

Ways

Great Customer Service

hat happened to great customer service? When did it become the norm that when you call a business, you spend your time wrangling with an automated voice on the other end? When did it become the norm that you are over-the-top ecstatic when people just do the job they promised? Why do businesses that provide excellent products or services fail so badly about the one thing that could help their businesses grow? Great customer service should be the norm, not the exception. As a business owner, I take pride in the work that my employees and I do because my professional reputation is at stake. One bad customer experience could have a domino effect on business. So how can you provide great customer service?

1. Take ownership of your service/ product.

3. Do what you say you will do, and then some.

When people look for a contact number on your website, don’t make it into a hide-and-seek game. Put the phone number prominently on the homepage. When people call your business, don’t give them the automated run-around. Answer your phone. Humanize your business.

Keep your promise. Do the job right, on time. If circumstances come up beyond your control that prevent you or your employees from fulfilling that promise, then own up to it, and make it right. Make it better. Use these tips and watch your business take off.

2. Train your staff to listen to the clients/customers. Your employees are often your frontline people. Train them to always be courteous and helpful. Train them to never ever say, “That’s not my job. Can’t help you there.” Train them to say, “I’ll see what we can do for you on this matter,” and follow through.

Bruce Schooley, President In-Depth Cleaning Professionals & Products, Inc.

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

new member welcome Advanced Professional Services, LLC

Peter Bailen 1429 Province Terrace, Suite A Menasha, WI 54952-7003 (920) 882-1678 www.apsofwi.com EXECUTIVE SEARCH

Artisan Bistro

Charlie Stephens 3025 W. College Avenue Appleton, WI 54914-2910 (920) 840-6059 www.myartisanbistro.com BAR

Barb’s Centre For Dance Fox Valley Peter Cedergren 1210 N. Mayflower Drive Appleton, WI 54913-8473 (920) 882-0800 www.barbsdance.com DANCE INSTRUCTION

Batzner Pest Management, Inc.

Cheryl Andersen 16948 W. Victor Road New Berlin, WI 53151-4135 (262) 797-4160 www.batzner.com PEST CONTROL

Becker Communications, Inc.

| august — october 2013 Dr. Energy Saver by LeafGuard

Live Life Smiling Family Dentistry, LLC

Endowment Wealth Management, Inc.

MacTel Telemessaging & Business Support Services

Zach Stachura 1449 Kimberly Avenue, Suite 102 Neenah, WI 54956-1644 (920) 299-5272 www.drenergysavernewi.com GENERAL CONTRACTOR

Thomas Remley 2200 N. Richmond Street, Suite 200 Appleton, WI 54911-1948 (920) 785-6010 www.endowmentwm.com FINANCIAL PLANNERS

Fibrenew Fox Cities

Marketplace Financial Group, LLC

First Impressions Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

Maurices

Pam Jackson 4182 W. Wisconsin Avenue Appleton, WI 54913-8652 (715) 842-4649 www.fidkids.com DENTISTS

Fox Valley Plastic Surgery

Andrew Becker 5303 E. Jelinek Avenue Schofield, WI 54476-4230 (715) 359-6133 www.beckerinc.com MARKETING

Chaume

Frank’s Pizza Palace

Derr & Villarreal Attorneys and Mediators Lisa Derr 404 North Main Street, Suite 817 Oshkosh, WI 54901-4957 (920) 233-1994 www.derrlaw.com ATTORNEYS

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit-Appleton Anthony Falbo W3192 County Road KK, Suite I Appleton, WI 54915-5523 (920) 364-0686 RESTAURANTS

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

June Johnson 424 E. Longview Drive Appleton, WI 54911-2145 (920) 730-3200 www.mactelanswers.com TELEPHONE ANSWERING SERVICE

Regina Asplund 3667 Park Lane Drive Neenah, WI 54956-9518 (920) 637-0300 www.fibrenew.com/fox_cities RESTORATION AND REPAIR OF LEATHER, PLASTICS, VINYL

David Janssen, MD 2500 E. Capitol Drive, Suite 1500 Appleton, WI 54911-8735 (920) 358-1810 www.fvpsurgery.com PHYSICIANS - PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

Amanda Rhodes 1305 Fox River Drive DePere, WI 54115-2430 (920) 246-8645 www.mychaume.com DIRECT SALES

Cindy Myers 3913 W. Prospect Avenue, Suite 101 Appleton, WI 54914-8797 (920) 202-3502 www.llsmiling.com DENTISTS

Jeannie Peirri Brice 815 W. College Avenue Appleton, WI 54914-5264 (920) 734-9131 www.frankspizzapalace.com PIZZA

Inclusion Dance

Carla Hales 273 W. Northland Avenue Appleton, WI 54911-2016 (920) 830-2813 www.inclusiondance.com DANCE INSTRUCTION

Integrity in Tax & Accounting, LLC Tina Kleckner 811 E. Capitol Drive Appleton, WI 54911-1453 (920) 277-2991 www.integirtyintaxllc.com ACCOUNTANTS, BOOKKEEPING, TAX SERVICE

Karl Wunderlich 109 E. Bell Street Neenah, WI 54956-4993 (920) 886-0220 www.marketplacefinancialgroup.com FINANCIAL SERVICES Julie Schwerke 3825 E. Calumet Street Appleton, WI 54915-4161 (920) 422 3616 www.maurices.com RETAIL SALES

McCormick Industries, Inc. Gary Hermsen 1103 S. Perkins Street Appleton, WI 54914-4725 (920) 954-9648 www.mccormickind.com MACHINE SHOP

Murphy Desmond S.C.

Warren Kraft 4650 W. Spencer Street, Suite 37 Appleton, WI 54914-9106 (920) 882-7630 www.murphydesmond.com ATTORNEYS

New York Life Insurance Company Norbert West 2201 E. Enterprise Drive, Suite 101 Appleton, WI 54913-7411 (920) 882-1835 www.norbertwest.com INSURANCE - INVESTMENTS

Parallel Employment Group Mallory Heynssens 1003 W. Northland Avenue, Suite A Appleton, WI 54914-1443 (920) 560-3030 www.parallelemployment.com STAFFING SERVICES

Pavana Salon & Spa

Sara Bartizol 133 E. College Avenue Appleton, WI 54911-5710

(920) 993-1212 www.pavanaspa.com HAIR SALON

Regus

Michele Barnes 4321 W. College Avenue, Suite 200 Appleton, WI 54914-3968 (920) 791-1978 www.regus.com REAL ESTATE - COMMERCIAL

Wichmann Fargo Funeral Homes and Crematory Dan Densow 537 N. Superior Street Appleton, WI 54911-4734 (920) 739-1231 www.wichmannfargo.com FUNERAL HOMES

World Finance Corporation Cathy Kreger 1869 N. Casaloma Drive Appleton, WI 54913-7980 (920) 733-2919 FINANCIAL & CONSUMER CREDIT LENDING

Reveal Fitness

Damion Meyer 2828 N. Richmond Street Appleton, WI 54911-1145 (920) 750-6800 www.revealfitness.net FITNESS CLUB

Robert Half

Tammy Mackai 100 W. Lawrence Street, 3rd Floor Appleton, WI 54911-5754 (920) 996-9520 www.roberthalf.com STAFFING SERVICES

Salon Professional Academy Tara Larson 3355 W. College Avenue Appleton, WI 54914-3921 (920) 968-0434 www.tsaappleton.com SCHOOL OF COSMETOLOGY

Smiles on Calumet

Daniel Binzak, DDS 3813 E. Calumet Street, Suite B Appleton, WI 54915-4158 (920) 993-1111 www.smilesoncalumet.com DENTISTS

Splendid Cleaning Service

Lilian Trinko 2194 S. Memorial Drive Appleton, WI 54915-1434 (920) 809-7929 www.splendidcleaningservice.com CLEANING - RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

Economic Outlook Breakfast February 12, 2014 7:30 - 9:00 am Radisson Paper Valley Hotel Speaker Brian Beaulieu, Economist, CEO of ITR Economics Gain insight on economic indicators you should follow and proven strategies for leveraging economic forecasts.

Annual Economic Survey Results Report Larry Burkhardt, Executive Vice President Fox Cities Regional Partnership

Cost Member $25 Member Table $225 Guest $35 Guest Table $325

State Farm Insurance - Kimberly Lee Kimberly Lee 4055 E. Calumet Street, Suite D Appleton, WI 54915-4198 (920) 882-4200 www.insuremekim.com INSURANCE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; COMMERCIAL

Vista Financial Strategies, LLC Scott Scheer 2201 E. Enterprise Avenue, Suite 103 Appleton, WI 54913-7413 (920) 731-4572 www.vistafinancialstrategies.com FINANCIAL SERVICES

Additional sponsorships available

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

business of the month |

august 2013

Superior Exteriors and Interiors

Superior Exteriors and Interiors 558 Eisenhower Dr. Kimberly, Wisconsin 54136 www.SEIWI.com 920-277-5329

Superior Exteriors and Interiors is proud to provide award-winning, superior quality and service to the great state of Wisconsin for more than a quarter century. Our unwavering commitment to superior quality provides our customers with the very best roofing and siding systems, windows and doors, gutter systems, and paint services backed by the absolute best warranty ever offered. Customer education is paramount to the Superior Exteriors family creed. An educated consumer makes an educated decision, a “Superior

Decision.” Our professional, certified representatives excel in every aspect of the construction process – from the simple “honey do” list, to complete disaster restoration. Trust the local experts at Superior Exteriors and Interiors. We are very proud to give back to our community! Some of the ways we’ve shown our support include: 2013 Haven of Hope Holiday Gala Fundraiser sponsor, Roof for Troops partner, Green Bay Make a Wish Foundation 2013 sponsor and Habitat for Humanity partner.

business of the month |

september 2013

Optimal Web Consultants

103 West College Ave., Suite 350 Appleton, WI 54911 www.optimalweb.biz 920-560-2471

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

Everyone has (or needs) a website, but few websites deliver any ROI. That’s why Optimal Web Consultants focuses on making websites work by providing custom website design and development, search engine optimization (SEO), conversion rate optimization (CRO), and analytics. SEO is the art and science of improving a website’s position on search engine results. Without SEO, a website is like a billboard in the desert – no one knows it exists. SEO is always changing, and Optimal Web closely follows the industry to ensure their clients benefit from new tactics and avoid costly ranking penalties.

Founded in 2008 by Brandon Wentland, Optimal Web is a digital marketing company headquartered in downtown Appleton. In the past five years they have worked with many companies in diverse industries, and they have quickly grown to seven fulltime team members. In June of 2013 they tripled their office space to house their in-house SEO team, and they’re looking to hire three more local SEO specialists by the end of the year. To learn how your website can stand out and naturally attract customers, visit their website at optimalweb.biz.

business of the month | october 2013

BConnected, LLC

5601 Grande Market Dr., Suite I Appleton, WI 54913 www.bconnectedllc.com 920-460-5118

BConnected is a group of professionals dedicated to helping businesses manage their social media presence online. Their number one mission is to give businesses an affordable opportunity to effectively utilize social media platforms best suited to their specific business needs. BConnected manages the entire process, including: content creation, posting, communications, photography, video, graphics, and promotions needed to make a social media page successful. Whether it’s Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram, or Blogging, BConnected will connect you with your customers; past, present, and future. Over the last two and half years, BConnected has grown from a concept with one lead to a team of six people with dozens of Fox Valley area clients. Brad Cebulski, owner of

diamond member honor roll The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce relies on its members to continue its work in promoting business interests in the Fox Valley region. Without these committed members, the Chamber would not be able to provide the high quality services it is known for. Diamond Members are companies that have supported the Chamber and community for more than 40 years. We’d like to express our gratitude to the

BConnected, recognizes that growth requires planning. With that, the company will increase the size of its team, triple the size and creative nature of their office space, and expand into the Madison area. As social media channels continue to change, BConnected continues to put their clients first and ensure they are visible across every platform they are on. Social media provides a great opportunity for businesses to connect with people online in a more personal manner that can impact customer service, sales, business relationships, brand recognition, awareness, and even operations. However, doing this effectively takes time and a variety of skills. BConnected is here to help and put in the time necessary to get the job done right and to make you stand out online.

| december 2013 – february 2014

following Diamond Member businesses for their membership and support to the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce. Appleton Area School District Bassett Mechanical Bemis/Curwood Erickson & Associates, S.C. Evans Title Companies Fox Cities Insurance Agency, Inc. Funset Boulevard Hollywood Cinemas

Lullabye Shop, Inc. Nordon Business Environments Riverside Florists & Greenhouses, Inc. Schenck SC Time Warner Cable Water-Right, Inc. Wayne Hummer Wealth Management We Energies Woodward Communications, Inc. — WHBY/WAPL/WKSZ/WSCO/ WZOR/WCHK/WXMM

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

pulse PULSE IS A PROGRAM OF: Presented By:

PREMIER SPONSOR:

CONTRIBUTING SPONSOR:

EVENT SPONSOR:

AWARD SPONSOR:

he top 15 young professionals in the Fox Cities will be honored on Thursday, January 23, 2014 during the 4th Annual Fox Cities Future 15 Young Professionals Awards. Future 15 recipients are chosen based on their dedication, strong sense of vision for the Fox Cities and understanding of the importance of volunteering and giving back. UW-Fox Valley will host the event at its Communications Arts Center on behalf of Pulse Young Professionals, a program of the Fox Cities Regional Partnership in collaboration with Post-Crescent Media. Award recipients will also be featured inside The PostCrescent. The Fox Cities has thousands of young professionals who excel within their places of employment and in the community. These professionals are not only leaders in their respective fields

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

and positively influence the quality of life in the Fox Cities, but they also have a hand in attracting and retaining young talent to the area. Nominations for the Future 15 Awards are now closed. All nominees had the option to submit an application; those who did advanced on for Future 15 consideration. A subcommittee of judges has narrowed down all applications to select the top 25 candidates, using set judging criteria. A panel of judges consisting of area business leaders then reviewed and scored the top 25 applications. These scores account for 90 percent of an applicant’s overall score. The remaining 10 percent is made up of an online voting component, which allows the public to cast its vote for the next Future 15. Only the top 25 candidates are a part of the online vote, which takes place during the week of December 1-7 on postcrescent.com.

Criteria for Future 15 Young Professionals: • YP must be in his/her company for a minimum of 2 years. • YP must live or work in the Fox Cities. Fox Cities includes Outagamie and Calumet Counties, Neenah and Menasha area. • YP should be active in community service. • Applications for each nominee must be completed and submitted by the nominated YP. • If selected as a recipient, YP must agree to be profiled in a special section in The Post-Crescent, as well as in a video shown during the awards ceremony and posted on postcrescent.com. • Previous winners are not eligible to reapply for a minimum of three years.

Exquisite. Genuine. Radiant. A TRUE GEM.

At Baker Tilly, we’re honored to support the Fox Cities Chamber and the activities that enrich our community. Helping businesses evolve and thrive is what we do. It’s part of how we can help keep our community a true gem. Connect with us: bakertilly.com

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

out and about Business Connection at Timber Rattlers Stadium

Cultivate Keynote Speaker Tim Sanders, Relationship Power! How to Win Business & Influence People

Cultivate 2013 Beth Davis and Gary Vaughan

Sears Outlet Ribbon Cutting

Leadership on Retreat

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

Smiles on Calumet Ribbon Cutting

The Event After Party

Well Attended CEO Breakfast

The Event Award Winners Kathy Westover, Beth Davis, Catherine Tierney

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

The Event Nominees: Young Professional of the Year Nominees

Exceptional Mentor Award Nominees

Gus A. Zuehlke Distinguished Service Award Nominees

Kelly Hicks, Youth Go, Inc. Kelly Kelly, Herrling Clark Law Firm Korey Krueger, Players Choice of the Fox Cities and Panther Baseball Club, Inc. Monica Klaeser, City of Appleton Jill Murphy, MotionWorks Physical Therapy Renee Read, Remley & Sensenbrenner, S.C. Law Firm John Weyenberg, Greater Fox Cities Area Habitat for Humanity

Tammy Clark, The Principal Financial Group Tim Duchow, Radisson Paper Valley Hotel Gail Ondresky, Omni Resources, Inc. Kathi Seifert, Katapult, LLC Kathy Westover, SOFTSPAN, LLC Tom Wiltzius, Wiltzius Associates

John Bykowski, SECURA Insurance Dean Gruner, ThedaCare Bob Pederson, Goodwill Walter S. Rugland Catherine Tierney, Community First Credit Union David G. Voss, Miron Construction Mike Weller, Miller Electric

Champion of the Chamber Nominees Beth Davis, Community First Credit Union Brad Cebulski, BConnected, LLC Mary Anne Drewek, Woodward Radio Group Heather Veeser, Skyline Exhibit Resource Ron Zahn, Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group, Inc. Les Van Ornum, Merchants’ Choice Card Services LLC

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

Entrepreneur of the Year Nominees Rich Batley, R.B. Hospitality Todd & DeDe Heid, Heid Music Sharon Hulce, Employment Resource Group Debra Michiels, Fox Banquets Rivertyme Catering Douglas Newhouse, Sure Dry Basement Jeannie Pierri-Brice, Frank’s Pizza Palace Kathy Sarver, Superior Exteriors Eric Turner, ABT Foundation Solutions, Inc.

Athena Award Nominees Beth Davis, Community First Credit Union Robyn Gruner, AT&T Meghan Healy, Direnzo Bomier Lyssa King, W by Worth Christina Winch, Winch Financial

Business Hall of Fame Nominees Rich Batley, R.B. Hospitality O.C. Boldt, The Boldt Company John Bykowski, SECURA Insurance Dean Gruner, ThedaCare Sheila Jenkins, Network Health Dr. Susan A. May, Fox Valley Technical College Dan Neufelder, Affinity Health Systems Vivian Huth, Kampo Properties Catherine Tierney, Community First Credit Union John Toussaint, ThedaCare Center for Healthcare Value David G. Voss, Miron Construction Margie Weiss, Weiss Health Group, LLC Mike Weller, Miller Electric

Fox Cities Chamber annual meeting and celebration of business honors area business leaders. The awards for The Event Celebrating Business Success were presented on Thursday, October 24, 2013 at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center. The winners are local business professionals that make a positive impact on the Fox Cities area.

Award Winners

Champion of the Chamber Young Professional of the Year John Weyenberg Greater Fox Cities Area Habitat for Humanity

John has served as Executive Director/ President of Greater Fox Cities Area Habitat for Humanity for nearly 14 years. He’s directed the building of more than 160 houses and has helped organize the launch initiatives, including: Habitat ReStore, the Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative, a full house rehabilitation program and the Almost Home Program. John graduated from St. Norbert College with a degree in International Economics. He spent time studying and working in London, England where he assisted immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers to access the British educational system. After college, he spent a year volunteering with the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps. John serves on several boards, including: Fox Cities Housing Coalition, Outagamie County Housing Authority, Leadership Fox Cities Executive and Youth Programs, etc. John has also been a volunteer with the American Red Cross, YMCA, We Are One World Foundation, annual pointin-time homeless count and more.

Ron Zahn Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group

Ron began his employment with the Buckstaff Company in Oshkosh, followed by Aid Association for Lutherans. He has been a REALTOR® associated with Coldwell Banker, The Real Estate Group, Inc. for 11 years. Ron has also been an ambassador of the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and Industry for 25 years and the Ambassador Chairman for three years. He has been instrumental in helping business owners understand the benefits of Chamber membership and has volunteered his time at the Chamber by serving on the Chamber’s golf, business expo and membership drive planning committees, as well as participating in Project Thank You, member retention visits, ribbon cuttings, grand openings and other Chamber events. Ron has been a very active volunteer in the community, serving on several volunteer fund drives for United Way, Thompson Community Center, Fox Valley Lutheran High School and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. He has served as President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer of his church, as well as a member of the Board of Elders, Deacons, Church Building Expansion, Church Capital Fund Raising, Auditing and Finance Committees.

The Exceptional Mentor Award Kathy Westover SOFTSPAN, LLC

Kathy has been the CPA and President of SOFTSPAN, LLC since it’s inception in 1996. She is the owner of Baileys on the Rocks Cottages, two vacation rentals in Bailey’s Harbor, and the former owner of Westover House, a women’s retail store in Neenah. She received her Bachelor of Business Administration through the UW system, graduating Magna Cum Luade. Her work with more than 200 clients, including financial institutions, manufacturers, R&D facilities, service providers and non-profit organizations has given her the opportunity to share her knowledge and expertise with many. Kathy has served and continues to serve on many boards, including: Community First Credit Union, United Way, YMCA, Associated Bank, Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce, UWOshkosh School of Business and more. She volunteers her time at Best Friends of Neenah-Menasha, Neenah Rotary, Winnebago Conflict Resolution Center, Hurricane Katrina Relief and First Presbyterian Church of Neenah. Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

THE EVENT Award Winners

Athena Award – Business Woman of the Year Entrepreneur of the Year Debra Michiels Fox Banquets Rivertyme Catering

Debra has owned and operated Fox Banquets Rivertyme Catering for over 27 years. She prides herself on the belief that success can only be attained by building and maintaining a huge and happy client base. She personally ensures that her customers are satisfied. In 2007, Fox Banquets and Rivertyme Catering was awarded the Restaurant of the Year award by the Big Four Chapter of the WI Restaurant Association. Her passion for entrepreneurialism began as a child, working with her family’s businesses. She has volunteered, past and present, on the boards of the Fox Valley Humane Association, St. Elizabeth’s Hospital Foundation and Women’s Golf Outing, on the Fox Cities Chamber Board, and more. Debra freely shares her creative and leadership insights with the community, challenging others to engage in business growth and embrace. Debra has also donated time, money, catering products and more to many businesses and nonprofit events.

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

Beth Davis Community First Credit Union

Upon graduating from UW-Madison, Beth embarked on a career in the financial services industry that spanned more than 35 years. Her first management position was with an Illinois branch of a locally owned company – Wisconsin Finance Co., a subsidiary of Citizens Bank. Beth was recognized by the new holding company, US Financial Services, and was inducted into the President’s Circle for outstanding achievements. Upon arriving in the Fox Cities in the early 90’s, she found a home with Community First Credit Union from 1996 to 2002 as AVP of Consumer Credit and Indirect Lending. For seven years Beth held the position of VP of Private Banking and Wealth Management for Wells Fargo, First Federal and Citizens Bank. In 2009, Beth returned to her home at Community First Credit Union as VP of Business Development. Beth has always had a passion for the non-profit needs in the community and has given her time, talent and resources to various organizations over the last 17 years. Currently, Beth is the Board President of the Women’s Fund of the Fox Valley where her passion for improving the lives of women and girls can be fostered with the grants and collaborative efforts with other non-profit organizations within the Fox Cities.

Gus A. Zuehlke Distinguished Service Award John Bykowski SECURA Insurance

John Bykowski is Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board for SECURA Insurance, a mutual property and casualty insurer in Appleton. He joined the company in 1997 as President and CEO, and was named chairman of its board of directors in 2004. John brought impressive property/casualty experience to SECURA. From 1972 to 1979, he held underwriting management positions at Milwaukee Mutual and Allstate Insurance. He worked as vice president of casualty operations at Wisconsin Employers Group from 1979 to 1983, and then moved to West Bend Mutual where he was senior vice president of marketing from 1983 to 1997. Bykowski is a graduate of Marquette University. Active in the insurance industry and community, he has served on the board of directors for the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (NAMIC) from 2003 to 2009, which included a 2007-08 term as board chairman. He currently serves on the board of directors for the Fox Cities Building for the Arts, and is the immediate past chairman of the board and a board member for the Fox Cities Community Foundation.

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financial

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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.

Richard D. 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

Doug Olm* FICF, LUTCF 13026 Thunder Hollow Ln. Whitelaw, WI 54247 920-732-4312 Douglas.M.Olm@ mwarep.org

Dave Parker* FICF, LUTCF W4254 Ridgeview Ct. Fond Du Lac, WI 54937 920-922-5135 David.W.Parker@ mwarep.org

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*Registered representative. Securities offered through MWA Financial Services Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Modern Woodmen of America.

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

THE EVENT Business Hall of Fame Inductees Presenting Sponsor:

Premier & Dessert/ Coffee Bar Sponsor:

Inductee to The Business Hall of Fame

Oscar J. Boldt The Boldt Group

Catherine Tierney Community First Credit Union

For more than 65 years, Oscar has been active in the operations of The Boldt Group and its subsidiary companies. Oscar J. Boldt Construction is a familyowned firm founded in 1889 and is headquartered in Appleton. The company operates throughout the country with the heaviest concentration of activity in the Midwest, South and West. Oscar received his B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Wisconsin. His involvement in the community includes, but is not limited to: Appleton Medical Center Board, Appleton Rotary Club, Community Foundation for Fox Valley Region, Inc., Lawrence University (Board of Trustees, Executive Committee). Oscar has received numerous awards, including: Ernst & Young Master Entrepreneur of the Year Award, Walter L. Rugland Community Service Award, St. Olaf College Regent’s Award, Sales and Marketing Executives of Northeast Wisconsin–Executive of the Year Award, Arts Alliance Renaissance Award, Inductee in the Paper Industry International Hall of Fame, American Society of Civil Engineers– Distinguished Constructor Award and many more.

President/CEO of Community First Credit Union since 1994, Cathie is a proven business leader, overseeing all aspects of a financially strong and rapidly growing financial cooperative. Prior to accepting the role of President, Cathie held many different positions within Community First Credit Union, beginning in 1976. Cathie serves on the boards of the Fox Valley Technical College, the FVTC Foundation, The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, The Fox Cities Building for the Arts, YMCA of the Fox Cities, The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and Industry, The Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation, and is Chairman of the National Association of State Chartered Credit Unions. She was instrumental in implementing a program with AASD that requires all students take a financial literacy class before graduation. Cathie is a firm believer that strengthening your community through volunteering will greatly improve our quality of life in the Fox Cities.

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

Premier Sponsors:

Contributing Sponsors:

Affinity Health System Boldt BMO Harris Business Lending Group Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group Fox Valley Technical College Fox Banquets Rivertyme Catering JP Graphics Inc. Kaldas Center for Fertility, Surgery & Pregnancy Miron Construction Network Health Outagamie County Regional Airport Post-Crescent Media Schenck SECURA Insurance ThedaCare Thrivent Financial for Lutherans

Corporate Packages:

AT&T American National Bank Fox Cities Bank First National enVision Performance Solutions LLC FNB – Fox Valley Johnson Bank Kimberly-Clark Corporation McMahon Parallel Employment Group The Business Bank Wipfli Woodward Communications

Join us for the

2014 QuickBooks Forum Schenck invites you to attend the 2014 QuickBooks Forum. This complimentary event will be a half-day forum with a variety of breakout sessions to allow you to customize the day to your areas of interest. Our keynote presenter will give an overview of QuickBooks 2014 and discuss the need for internal controls. Breakout sessions include: • QuickBooks Basics • Vendor Tips and Tricks • Customer Tips and Tricks • Inventory Tips and Tricks • QuickBooks Reporting • Year-End Payroll & 1099 Update

December 10 • 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. • La Sure’s Hall • Oshkosh Visit schencksc.com/2014qbforum for more information and to register. 200 E. Washington Street • Appleton • 800-236-2246 • schencksc.com © Schenck sc 2013 10.13

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

Year-End GivingTips

www.cffoxvalley.org/PlanYourGift (920) 830-1290

Dec. 1 Start gifts of real estate and/or business interests.

Dec. 20 Start gifts of stock, bonds mutual funds or IRA rollover.

Dec. 31 For mailed checks, the post-mark determines if a 2013 deduction is available, not the date on the check.

Dec. 31 Make credit card gifts by phone by close of business or online before midnight.

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

Working Capital. Working Harder. Businesses throughout the Fox Cities can achieve and maintain a competitive edge through our local presence and the seamless delivery of our Chase and J.P. Morgan banking products and services. Supported by a team of local credit, treasury and service professionals, we can deliver a total solution to meet your needs today and in the future. For banking services contact: Bruce Zak Wisconsin-North, Regional President Middle Market Banking (920) 735-1324

Fox Cities

Chamber of Commerce & Industry

January Pulse Lunch & Learn Wednesday, January 8 Business Connection Wednesday, January 15 Future 15 Young Professional Awards Thursday, January 23

February Business Connection Wednesday, February 5 Economic Outlook Breakfast Wednesday, February 12 Pulse Lunch & Learn Wednesday, February 12 NEWCC Legislative Dialogue Breakfast Monday, February 17 BizBlend Thursday, February 20

March Pulse Lunch & Learn Wednesday, March 12 Business Connection Tuesday, March 18

2014 Calendar of Events Go to www.foxcitieschamber.com for up-to-date event details.

Cultivate: Business Growth Series Thursday, March 20

Business Connection Tuesday, June 11 BizBlend Thursday, June 19

April

July

Career Fair Tuesday, April 8

Pulse Lunch & Learn Wednesday, July 9

Pulse Lunch & Learn Wednesday, April 9

Business Connection Tuesday, July 22

BizBlend Thursday, April 17 Business Connection Tuesday, April 22

May Leadership Fox Cities Graduation Tuesday, May 13

October Pulse Lunch & Learn Wednesday, October 8 Business Connection Wednesday, October 14

August

BizBlend Thursday, October 16

Pulse Lunch & Learn Wednesday, August 13

Pulse CEO Breakfast Wednesday, October 22

Business Connection Wednesday, August 20

November

BizBlend Thursday, August 28

Pulse Lunch & Learn Wednesday, May 14

License to Cruise & Octoberfest Friday & Saturday, September 26 & 27

Business Connection Tuesday, November 11

September

Pulse Lunch & Learn Wednesday, November 12

Business Connection Wednesday, May 14

Business Connection Tuesday, September 9

December

June

Pulse Lunch & Learn Wednesday, September 10

Business Trifecta Wednesday, June 4

Leadership Fox Cities Retreat Wednesday, September 11 & 12

Pulse Lunch & Learn Wednesday, June 11

Business Connection Tuesday, December 9 Pulse Lunch & Learn Wednesday, December 10 BizBlend Thursday, December 18

Download the Fox Cities Chamber App The Fox Cities Chamber new app helps connect the chamber to our members, members to other members, and our members to the community while using mobile technology to help grow their businesses. Every chamber member gets a free listing to help market your business. Be sure to view your business page through the searchable member directory to verify your business listing details.

Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

The app offers one-touch connectivity to: • • • • •

The Chamber Member Business Directory Chamber Member Offers - Hot Deals & Market Place Ads Events - Local, Chamber, Members News - Local, Chamber, Members, Google Chamber - About, Board of Directors, Join

Download the app by scanning the QR code, texting FoxCities to 71441, or searching “Fox Cities Chamber” in iTunes or Google Play.

Dream Big. Partner Locally! When Brent Buss and Tyler Skibba graduated from chiropractic school and decided to start a practice together, they checked with several financial institutions before choosing Community First Credit Union. Brent summed up our cooperative effort saying “It’s been

awesome to partner with Community First”

--------------------------------------When you’re ready for a local financial partner for your big dreams, contact us for:

“We wo ul here wi dn’t be Commu thout nity Firs Brent B t.” uss &

• 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

Ty The Chir opractic ler Skibba Member/ Advantage owners

Visit any of our 20 Convenient Locations APPLETON NEW LONDON NEENAH OSHKOSH NICHOLS DE PERE DARBOY MANITOWOC HOWARD GREENVILLE WAUPACA TWO RIVERS FOX VALLEY TECHNICAL COLLEGE: Appleton Campus

www.communityfirstcu.com (920) 830-7200 or Toll-Free 1-866-273-2328 Fox Cities Chamber Business | DECEMBER 2013

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