2016
Progress Section A: Business, Industry & Education
February 17, 2016 A Supplement to Action Advertiser
FCEDC refocuses to support new economy Steve Jenkins Fond du Lac Economic Development Corporation
The Fond du Lac County Economic Development Corporation has successfully served the economic development needs of the county for over a quarter century, attracting jobs and investments while helping the county’s existing businesses sustain and grow operations. But, as the national and global economies have changed with new demands and increased competitiveness, the FCEDC must also change to attain new success in the new economy. The new economy is being fueled by FCEDC continued on page A4
FCEDC staff announced the rebrand of their organization at their Annual Evening on Thursday, Jan. 28, 2016. Staff pictured, from left, are: Joseph Becker, vice president of finance; Jo Ann Giese-Kent, vice president of entrepreneurship, research & innovation; Steve Jenkins, CEcD, president; Sarah Spang, director of strategic initiatives; and Jim Cleveland, vice president of business and community competitiveness.
Thor Gilbertson appointed as new president of
Holiday Automotive
As Smith & Hatch Insurance Agency begins their 40th year of service in the insurance industry, they plan to look at the past, present and future. In 1976, Beatrice Smith had a vision to own and operate her own insurance agency. With 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, she started her own agency from scratch one policy at a time. In 1981, her nephew Bill Hatch began working with her while he attended UWOshkosh and took up a full-time job there upon graduation. Hatch’s wife, Laurie,
During 2015, Holiday Automotive experienced many milestones and accomplishments, and the introduction of a new president to lead the organization forward. In September, CEO Mike Shannon announced the appointment of Thor Gilbertson as the dealership’s new president, citing “Thor’s passion for the business, level of experience, and his pursuit of superior customer care are some of the things that make him a great fit for us.” Shannon, who was named 2015 Time Magazine Dealer of the Year-Midwest Finalist in January of last year, also announced that after 31 enjoyable years as its leader, he would be taking on an oversight role as company chairman. Prior to joining Holiday, Gilbertson held high level management and
SMITH & HATCH continued on page A6
Holiday Automotive president Thor Gilbertson opens a meeting with the dealership’s young professionals group, inside the new Jim Kuitert Training Center.
St. Mary's Springs Academy experiences
growth in enrollment, construction, celebrations
St. Mary’s Springs Academy
St. Mary’s Springs Academy welcomed 142 new students and a few new leaders. A new system president was named with the appointment of Kelly Norton, former Director of Advancement. Erin Flood was named system principal, joined by Jackie Kraemer, associate principal. Construction is well underway with plans to open the new school in fall of 2016. SMSA has been working with a Liturgical Consultant to plan the vision for the chapel in the new school. They received the official Decree of Establishment from Archbishop Jerome Listecki, granting their request to name the glorious space: The Chapel of St. Mary, Our Lady of the Ledge. With this blessing, plans are underway to develop a shrine of St. Mary, Our Lady of the Ledge depicting Mary seated on Niagara Dolomite Stone (aka Fond du Lac Limestone) near a spring of running water in quite prayer and intercession for all of her children — St. Mary’s Springs Academy students, who will be represented at
INSIDE:
Automotive Holiday Automotive Ledgeview Mobile Service Summit Automotive Business & Industry Action Printing Buechel Stone Charter Communications
on 40-year history
Smith & Hatch Insurance Agency
Holiday Automotive
HOLIDAY continued on page A2
Smith & Hatch Insurance Agency reflects
her feet. Her arm would be around her son, Jesus, her left hand would be drawn to her heart, recalling scripture; "His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus advanced in wisdom and age and favor before God and man." —Luke 2: 51-52. Painted behind this image would be the tower of St. Mary’s Springs Academy reaching over the trees of the bluff and in sight of the city of Fond du Lac and Lake Winnebago below. The altar will be crafted of Fond du Lac limestone and local natural hard woods. Suspended above the altar will be a beautifully crafted corona — monastic influenced — and above our cruci-
City of Waupun Cole Oil Company FCEDC International Paper JG Custom Cabinetry & Design Marchant Schmidt, Inc. Michels Corporation Muthig Industries, Inc. Potratz Custom Carpentry ServiceMaster
The Action Advertiser Education Audubon Society Faith Lutheran Preschool Fond du Lac County UW-Extension Fond du Lac School District Fond du Lac Studio of Music Jesus' Little Lambs Marian University Moraine Park Technical College
fix, preserved from Old Main Hall Chapel. The original tabernacle, once housed in the Old Main Hall Chapel, will be refinished and reused. Stained glass windows will be present in the new chapel. The time capsule of the high school, encased in the late 1960s was recently removed, and upon opening, there were some amazing artifacts discovered. A new time capsule was also buried at the site filled with Holy artifacts from those who attended the beam signing ceremony. St. Mary’s Springs Academy’s offices are located at 114 Amory St., in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-9240993 or visit smsacademy.org.
Oakfield School District Piano Plyground Saint Lawrence Seminary Shepherd of the Hills Catholic School St. Mary's Springs Academy UW-Fond du Lac UW-Fond du Lac Foundation
Financial American Bank Feucht Financial Fond du Lac Credit Union Hometown Bank Huberty CPA Firm NEBAT Smith & Hatch Insurance Agency Society Insurance U.S. Bank Woodley Retirement Solutions, LLC
Muthig Industries, Inc.
celebrated 50 years in business in 2015 Muthig Industries, Inc.
Stretching back to 1965, Ray Muthig, company founder, started the tool and die business in his Fond du Lac home. By 1971, the growing company moved into a 2,500-square-foot building on Lost Arrow Road. In 1977, the business expanded by purchasing the Midwest Stamping Company. In 1981, it relocated to Rolling Meadows Drive, and in 1986, Bruce Muthig purchased the business from his father. The business then moved to its present location at 33 E. Larsen Drive in 1998 due to the demand for a much larger manufacturing facility. Significant growth has occurred since 2007 when Muthig Industries, Inc. added the laser cutting division, followed by a second shift and the addition of a production machining and turning department in 2009. The expansion warranted a 10,000-square-foot addition in 2010, giving them nearly 35,000 square feet of total manufacturing capacity. This commitment to growth and diversification has enabled us to better serve MUTHIG continued on page A4
PO Box 1955, N6637 Rolling Meadows Drive Fond du Lac, WI 54936-0630 920-922-4600 www.fdlreporter.com
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Progress
February 17, 2016
Ledgeview Mobile Service no longer a ‘one-man show’ Ledgeview Mobile Service
Now celebrating its fourth year in business, Ledgeview Mobile Service has seen continued growth since its founding. “Our business has more than doubled in size since our first year and is continuing to grow,” said owner Ryan Roxbury. Ledgeview offers mobile maintenance and repairs for all makes and models of outdoor power equipment. “We service all makes of push mowers, riding mowers, snow blowers, and the list goes on. Basically anything with an engine we can work on,” said Roxbury. Ledgeview Mobile Service also offers a full service repair department. “If we can’t fix your equipment on site, we will transport it to our secure service center free of charge,” adds Roxbury, in regard to Ledgeview’s slogan: We come to you. Last year, Ledgeview Mobile Service was able to hire an additional technician and seasonal assistant to increase manpower during the busy seasons of spring and fall, making the business no longer a “one-man show.” “It is a great feeling to be able to offer employment and to add to the economic growth and development of our community,” said Roxbury. This year Ledgeview plans on adding an additional truck and trailer to keep up with customers’ needs. “We pride ourselves in keeping our customer down time as low as possible and will do whatever it takes to achieve this. We will always be looking at ways to better enhance our process and infrastructure to meet
Ryan Roxbury, owner of Ledgeview Mobile Services, poses with some of the products he services.
(needs),” said Roxbury. “A good example of this would be the snow storm that we saw come through our community late last December. During that storm, we had close to 70 snow blowers come through our service department in just a few days. We were able to get them all repaired and back out within a weeks’ time.” Ledgeview Mobile Service has close to 20 years of experience in the outdoor power equipment field and is accredited with the Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin. Ledgeview Mobile Service is located at 1295 Morris St., Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-933-7827 or visit fdlmowerrepair.com.
Lawn Mower Repair Made Easy!
LEDGEVIEW Mobile Service
920-933-7827
WI-5001973458
enjoys record sales year Summit Automotive
staff: Advertising Director Jason Kramer Community Content Specialist Taima Kern Graphic Artist Marie Rayome-Gill Distribution Supervisor Chris Madsen
We come to you!
Visit - www.fdlmowerrepair.com “Serving the Fond du Lac Area With Quality Auto Parts Since 1956” PPG Auto & Commercial Paint Products Auto Body Tools & Supplies Brand Name Auto & Truck Parts Experienced & Courteous Sales Staff
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Summit Automotive
Section A • Business, Industry & Education
920-922-3390 • 800-236-3390 16 W. Sibley St. Fond du Lac
Your “Hometown” Source for Auto Parts!
It’s been a busy year for Summit Automotive (formerly Holiday Chrysler Dodge Jeep & Ram). Along with a facility update came a breakout record year for sales and expansion. 2015 produced the biggest year for sales in their history, pushing the need for increasing used car and truck selection to the highest levels ever. Some of the other highlights of the year were: the purchase of an additional 6 acres adjacent to the truck lot on the west side of the frontage road (Rolling Meadows Drive), a complete Mopar Express Lane, and an increase in the number of commercial trucks stocked. Summit Automotive is ready for rapid growth and is in the process of making future plans for facilities on both sides of HOLIDAY continued from page A1
leadership positions with two of the state’s largest auto retailers. Team Holiday finished the year with repeats as Wisconsin’s No. 1 used car and used truck dealer, its top volume full-line GM dealer, and its No. 1 Mazda dealer. The Ford line, which was acquired in 2012, enjoyed double digit sales growth over the prior year along with completion of a major remodeling and enhancement of its facilities. Both Holiday Ford and Holiday Mazda closed 2015 at the No. 1 spot in certified pre-owned vehicle sales statewide. Holiday’s service, parts and body shop operations also served a record number of customers during the year and achieved many honors including being voted best, in multiple categories including best body shop, best place for an oil change and best detail shop in the 2015 Reporter Readers Choice Awards. The dealership was also chosen as best place to buy a new car and best place to buy a used car, in the annual community polling. “We’re energized and have many goals in our sights for 2016. Soon we’ll embark on a 6-acre lot expansion to increase our selection further, along with an additional building to handle vehicle reconditioning,” said Gilbertson. “None of this momentum would be possible without our dedicated and talented team. We are very fortunate to have an organization full of people committed to doing a great job, and creating positive experiences for our customers. By focusing on our goals and placing a heightened emphasis on recognition of them and the good work they do, combined with continuous and never-ending improvement and team development, is how we plan to get it done. I’m extremely excited to be leading Wisconsin’s No. 1 customer caring car company.” That belief in never ending improvement was underscored this year with the completion of the new Jim Kuitert Training Center in October. Located on the second level of Holiday Ford, the training center is named in honor of Kuitert, former executive vice
Pictured at Summit Automotive’s new lot are, from left: Tim Schraufnagel, Ryan Knueppel, Mark Phillips, Nancy McCullough Berg, Mike Berg, Charlie Weiland, Joel Zerbel and Lori Heisler.
the frontage road, a need brought on by the increased demand for quality used vehicles and the expanding line of Chrysler Dodge Jeep and Ram new vehicle models. “Keeping up with the increased demand has been a challenge,” said Mike Berg, president and owner of Summit Automotive. “But we are up for that challenge and are preparing and planning daily for today and the future. The idea of rolling into 2016 with this kind of momentum is exciting.” Summit Automotive is located at 815 S. Rolling Meadows Drive, in Fond du Lac. For information, call 888-297-9066 or visit summitautomotive.com. president of fleet and commercial sales, who passed away in June 2015. “In his 25 years with us, Jim was always buttoned up on his training,” said Shannon. “It seemed a fitting memorial, reflecting Jim’s dedication and work ethic.” The center is outfitted with fixtures and furniture that allows for adaptation to different meeting applications, a state-of-the-art projection system, and large format photography featuring work trucks used by well-known area business customers. New in 2015 was the first-ever Holiday Alumni Day. Designed as a nod of appreciation, the dealership hosted a tour and luncheon for past employees and retirees. “We invited them in to recognize their contribution to our growth and to see firsthand all the new improvements and upgrades we’ve done that they helped pave the way for, including the new Ford and Mazda stores. It was great to see so many familiar faces and old friends turn out,” said Dick Beyer, service manager. Holiday Automotive is enjoying its 56th year as a Fond du Lac based, familyowned business. Today, more than 300 team members staff its four-store campus, from seasoned veterans to young professionals. Team Holiday gets behind a great many worthwhile endeavors each year via projects as diverse as the Cops for Kids toy drive in December, to summertime’s Charity Open to benefit Hospice Hope, and many others. In 2015, employee giving in support of the Fond du Lac Area United Way campaign reached a record high, resulting in more than $42,500 in proceeds. And in collaboration with Ford Motor Company, the dealership teamed up with Brenner Tank and Society Insurance to stage a Drive 4 UR Community that generated additional funds for United Way. All are examples of the company’s heart, soul, ambition and community spirit. Holiday Automotive is located at 321 N. Rolling Meadows Drive in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-921-8898 or visit holidayautomotive.com.
Flatbed Division Stepdeck Division Reefer Division Van Division
920-477-5132 800-558-2664 920-477-6500 920-477-6000
IT’S OUR PEOPLE
over 300 of them — their smiles, know-how and helpful caring attitudes
THAT MAKE HOLIDAY customers fans of what we do, and each and every visit
WORTH THE TRIP! Thank you to them, and
THANK YOU FOR DRIVING WITH US!
BUDGET CENTER
Hwy 41 & Johnson St., Fond du Lac
WWW.HOLIDAYAUTOMOTIVE.COM
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February 17, 2016
FCEDC continued from page A1
innovation, the ability to take calculated risks and constantly evolving strategies to succeed. The FCEDC will have a new look and logo, a new mission, new brand promise and new programming that is required to support the county’s economic needs. What will not change is the Corporation’s core values of Servant Leadership, Accountability, Integrity, Collaboration and Innovation. In fact, there will be an even greater emphasis on the values as we pursue the future. Although the FCEDC logo is changing to indicate boldness, future focus and new energy for a new economy, a logo is a minor aspect of the new organization. The FCEDC mission has also been updated and simplified. That mission is: Generate increased and sustainable economic prosperity. Prosperity for the county’s businesses, its communities and all residents, period! Within that mission, there are four key goals: • Increased economic diversity • Increased median household, per capita and disposable incomes • Globally competitive businesses and communities • Significant increase and sustainability of business formations. These goals are essential to creating and sustaining an economy in the county that will provide prosperity necessary to advance the community. The FCEDC brand promise is futurefocused and not “business as usual” that will take advantage of the opportunities presented by the new economy. This will be accomplished through innovation in service delivery and programming and leveraging resources through collaboration of other community and regional organizations. This will enable us to increase effectiveness and boldness in new initiatives that positions Fond du Lac County as a model for economic prosperity. Examples of new initiatives in 2016 and 2017 include: • The creation and implementation of a Business Competitiveness and Innovation Network (Biznovate) connecting businesses to national and global resources • An Internet-based, interactive county-wide business directory that provides all residents and businesses access to goods and services in the county • A data-driven existing business program that takes advantage of the robust research capabilities of the FCEDC • A seed capital fund for entrepreneurial startups • Youth entrepreneurship and idea challenges • The Festival of Entrepreneur-
Progress
ship, Arts and Creativity that will bring entrepreneurs from the state and the Midwest for education, challenges, competitions and community involvement. The FCEDC will also embark on a collaboration with the economic development organizations along the Interstate 41 corridor including Oshkosh, Appleton and Green Bay to attract new jobs and investments to the region. Site selection consultants that work with companies searching for new business locations have told each community that we do not have the necessary “critical mass” in population, workforce or assets to garner their attention.
Working together, we will have “critical mass” to successfully attract new economic opportunities for all communities. Additionally, the communities along the corridor are collaborating to build an aviation cluster for the region. More than 200 firms along the corridor serve the aviation industry. The FCEDC along with 16 other organizations created IGNITE! Business Success in late 2014 to provide a robust, seamless support system for entrepreneurs. Instead of having to contact multiple organizations to contact seeking assistance, there is now one. IGNITE! has attracted both statewide and national attention as an innovative approach to entrepreneurial development. Why is that important for Fond du Lac County? In recent years, the number of business formations in the county has been dropping, and in the new economy, entrepreneurs are expected to lead the way in economic development. The FCEDC and IGNITE! intend to reverse the recent trend and make Fond du Lac County the epicenter of entrepreneurship in the state. Success in the new economy is not the responsibility or the mission of a single organization. It is a collaborative effort with all private and public organizations contributing their strengths and assets to the effort of building a stronger economy. The FCEDC challenges every organization in Fond du Lac County to buck the status quo and strive to build a future economy that is growth-oriented and sustaining. The refocused FCEDC is ready to do its part. The Fond du Lac Economic Development Corporation is located at 116 N. Main St., in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-929-2928 or visit fcedc.com.
A FINANCIAL
EVENT
RETIRE
WISELY
WI-5001973782
Jonathan D. Leonard, FIC Financial Representative 9 Fond du Lac St. Waupun, WI 53963
Staff at Society Insurance pose for a group photo in honor of the company’s 100th anniversary in the summer of 2015.
Society Insurance:
100 years, five states and growing Society Insurance
Society Insurance celebrated 100 years in business on June 8, 2015, and during commemorative events throughout the year. The anniversary celebrations were capstones to a busy year of business milestones. Early in 2015, Society completed a multi-year project to build a new policy administration system for all lines of insurance. The system enables more efficient policy quoting, rating, changes and administration. These enhancements fulfill the company’s promise of outstanding service to policyholders. The marketing team leveraged Society’s collective insurance expertise in a major expansion of its website and social media content, including blogs, white papers and newsletters. These communications provide agents and policyholders with critical, targeted information designed to benefit them proactively – by eliminating some insurance claims and reducing the adverse effects of others. Employees utilized Society’s new telecommuting program as an innovative tool to achieve the work/life balance that is best for them. Eligible employees are equipped to work from home up to four days per week, using the latest technology to ensure seamless communication with the home office. In August, Society joined Brenner Tank as corporate Pacesetters for the MUTHIG continued from page A1
our broad range of customers. Combining these departments along with the longrunning tool and die and metal stamping divisions have led Muthig to become a fullservice manufacturer. Muthig Industries, Inc. a third-generation family-owned business, understands that business success is only as strong as
Seating is limited. Please RSVP by Friday, March 4th by calling Jean at 920-392-6846 Complimentary dinner will be provided for each attendee. Seating is limited.
No products will be sold at this event. Thrivent Financial and its representatives and employees cannot provide legal, accounting, or tax advice or services. Work with your Thrivent Financial representative, and as appropriate, your attorney and/or tax professional for additional information. Insurance products issued or offered by Thrivent Financial, the marketing name for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Appleton, WI. Not all products are available in all states. Securities and investment advisory services are offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc., 625 Fourth Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415, a FINRA and SIPC member and a wholly owned subsidiary of Thrivent. Thrivent Financial representatives are registered representatives of Thrivent Investment Management Inc. They are also licensed insurance agents/producers of Thrivent. For additional important information, visit Thrivent.com/disclosures. Appleton, Wisconsin • Minneapolis, Minnesota • Thrivent.com • 800-847-4836
27764AD R3-14
the employees that make up that organization. The foundation of Muthig’s success is a direct reflection of the 45 hardworking and dedicated employees that give so much to the business each and every day. Muthig Industries, Inc. is located at 33 E. Larsen Drive, in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-922-9814 or visit muthigindustries.com.
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SALE $38,900 Tuesday, March 8, 2016 6:00 pm at Pizza Ranch 900 W. Main Street Waupun, WI 53963
annual Fond du Lac Area United Way fundraising campaign. The two Pacesetters combined to raise $63,209. This was a great opportunity for employees to take a more visible role in giving back to the community. Society is excited to lead the 2016 United Way campaign as the Senior Pacesetter. Later this year, Society will begin service to selected metro markets in Tennessee. Market research has found Nashville and Knoxville ideally suited to the business types that Society specializes in. Continued strong financial results, including a record policyholder surplus, make this an opportune time for expansion. Yet Society remembers that it served Wisconsin customers exclusively for 81 years before expanding to neighboring states Illinois, Iowa, and Indiana. The company has always believed in systematically pursuing the businesses it serves best. Ambitious goals await in Tennessee and here at home as Society begins its second century of unparalleled service to policyholders. The centennial celebrations have reminded employees that it all starts in Fond du Lac, Society’s home since 1918. Society Insurance is located at 150 Camelot Drive, in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-922-1220 or visit societyinsurance.com.
FELDNER CHEVROLET LIST DISC. REBATE *SUPER TAG
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Section A • Business, Industry & Education
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Progress
Section A • Business, Industry & Education
U.S. Bank contributes $20,000
to community, named ethical leader
U.S. Bank
Mike Nickels, U.S. Bank regional president, said that U.S. Bank saw solid growth both in its deposits and lending groups in 2015. “Our focus will continue to be providing excellent service through our dedicated and highly trained employees who provide our customers with the tools they need to help them reach their financial goals. U.S. Bank is one of the oldest, largest and healthiest commercial banks in the country,” said Nickels. Nickels also said that U.S. Bank’s community commitments have extended beyond banking hours, as many of its 30 employees from its three area branches volunteer in the community, donating their time, talents and energy for numerous worthwhile causes like Habitat for Humanity and United Way.
U.S. Bank also contributed more than $20,000 this past year to many local organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club, Thelma Center, Solutions Center, Hospice Hope Cancer Care Charity Open and the Partners In Education mentoring program with Chegwin Elementary School. The bank was also a sponsor of the Walleye Weekend Family Festival, which, for the past two years, has also brought a popular lumberjack show to Fond du Lac. “We believe that we’re only as strong as the communities in which we do business,” said Kim Schmitz, district retail manager in Fond du Lac. “Our commitment to building upon the already-strong quality of life in our region is deeply rooted in our company’s core values.” U.S. Bank was also recognized nationally as an ethical leader and cor-
February 17, 2016
A5
porate citizen in 2015. Ethisphere Institute named the bank one of its 2015 World’s Most Ethical Companies, a designation that recognizes organizations that have had a material impact on the way business is conducted by fostering a culture of ethics and transparency at every level of the company. In addition, U.S. Bank was also recognized as the most admired superregional A team of U.S. Bank employees participated in Habitat for Humanity’s 2015 home build. In bank in Fortune magaaddition, the team presented Habitat for Humanity with a $5,000 check on behalf of the U.S. Bank Foundation. zine’s World’s Most Admired Companies 2015. president and chief executive officer for “A strong financial performance and U.S. Bank. a strong commitment to ethical leadership and corporate behavior are the U.S. Bank is located at 55 S. Main St., cornerstone of the U.S. Bank culture and in Fond du Lac. For more information, purpose,” said Richard Davis, chairman, call 920-929-2200 or visit usbank.com.
Fond du Lac Credit Union sees change in management Lorri Heimbach Fond du Lac Credit Union
After 42 years of service to Fond du Lac Credit Union, President Chris Rockweit has retired. I had the chance to chat with Rockweit as she prepared for the transition. Rockweit told me that working in a smaller business, you wear many hats. Every day can bring a new challenge that you weren’t planning on that day. The biggest change to the industry over the years is definitely technology. When Rockweit started, they manually calculated interest when a loan payment was made and every night ran the member ledger card through a huge “posting machine” to update transactions.
SCOTT ROESCH
CHRIS ROCKWEIT
“I’m sure those machines are antiques now!” she said. Rockweit believes Fond du Lac Credit Union has done an excellent job on keeping up with electronic services being offered to members, including Mobile Deposit that just rolled out the end of December.
Rockweit says she’ll miss the member relationships built over the years along with the many friendships formed in the credit union community. “The Credit Union industry is definitely a special group of people,” said Rockweit. “Always a ‘people helping people’ atmosphere. This has truly been a memorable experience. I’m confident that over the 42 years of my tenure, I have served the Fond du Lac Credit Union membership to the best of my ability and I know I’m leaving a strong and growing credit union in good hands.” The new president of Fond du Lac Credit Union is Scott Roesch. He worked for Fond du Lac Credit Union
for more than 12 years, starting as accounting manager and ending as executive vice president. Roesch left in February 2013 for the position of President for Service Credit Union in Green Bay. “I was actively involved in the planning and execution of the new facility for Fond du Lac Credit Union in 2010, so it’s kind of like coming home,” said Roesch. “I am very excited to return to Fond du Lac Credit Union. I know I will have big shoes to fill, but with our great employees, I know that we will continue to expertly serve our members.” Fond du Lac Credit Union is located at 91 N. Pioneer Road in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-921-1123 or visit fdlcu.com.
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Progress
February 17, 2016
NEBAT offers Step-Up Checking
Section A • Business, Industry & Education
for a new generation of banking National Exchange Bank & Trust
The National Exchange Bank StepUp Checking account got a make-over in 2015. Now, not only is it available to ease young adults into financial independence, it rewards customers for making good financial choices. Olivia Graham, a sophomore at Saint Norbert College in De Pere, heard of the new product in development last summer when she was asked to be a part of the test group. Prior to the product’s release in October 2015, Graham enrolled and provided bank decision makers with her feedback.
Olivia Graham, a sophomore at Saint Norbert College in De Pere, utilizes Step-Up Checking.
“I was especially excited about the ATM Fee Refunds. When I am away at school, it’s super convenient for me to use any ATM I come across, and I get email notifications sent directly to my phone, so I know when I meet the qualifications,” said Graham. With Step-Up Checking, young adults under age 26 are encouraged to make good financial choices by rewarding them with ATM fee refunds and interest bonuses for meeting certain qualifications. To qualify for rewards, account holders need to enroll in eStatements for all their accounts and then follow one of two paths: maintain a balance of $200 in a combination of accounts or go electronic by having a direct deposit or Remote Check Deposit of more than $25, using their debit card four or more times and limiting checks to less than three in a month. Step-Up Checking accounts are evaluated each “qualification cycle” and rewards are given during the following “rewards cycle.” The best part is that Step-Up Checking customers can track their qualification progress and their rewards in Exchange OnLine, Internet Banking, which inspires young people to start a healthy habit of monitoring their finances. Statistics show that teens with a checking account are better prepared to handle their finances than ones with access to plastic. National Exchange Bank & Trust in Fond du Lac is located at 346 N. Main St. and 130 S. Main St. For more information, call 920-921-7700 or visit nebat.com.
SMITH & HATCH Insurance Agency, Inc.
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS IN BUSINESS 1976-2016
Representatives from Feucht Financial Group LLC. Pictured from left are: Laura Ingram, Jeremy Feucht, Mark Feucht, Chad Feucht, Jeff Nielsen and Chad Muehlbauer.
Feucht Financial sees
expansion of staff, work space Feucht Financial Group, LLC
2015 has been an exciting year of growth at Feucht Financial Group, LLC. Chad Feucht became a partner with Mark and Jeremy Feucht in September, following his retirement as a lieutenant colonel, commander and F-22 fighter pilot during a 24-year Air Force career. During the first half of his Air Force career, Chad served as a full-time active duty member, and on the second half of his career, he served as a part-time Traditional Reservist. While serving as a Traditional Reservist, Chad worked for Lockheed Martin as a Systems Engineer in Texas and Software Engineer in Alaska until 2012. Thorough 2015, Chad worked for Boeing as the F-22 Product Support Program Manager and Site Manager at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska. A licensed Securities Representative since 1994, he has a Bachelor’s of Science in Social Sciences from the United States Air Force Academy and a Master’s of Business Administration from Trident University. Chad has assumed a lead wealth management SMITH & HATCH continued from page A1
starting working at the agency in 1989. In 1997, a branch office was opened in Kewaskum. Bea and Bill became partners in 2000 and renamed the agency to Smith & Hatch Insurance Agency. In 2013, Bea decided to sell the agency to Bill and Laurie and retired in 2014. Smith & Hatch Insurance Agency is still in the same location where it started and has grown into a 2,000-square-foot office. There are nine licensed agents in its Eden office and three in Kewaskum. For a list of employees, represented agencies and types of insurance, visit their website. Giving back and investing in the local communities the agency serves is still very important to the owners, as it has been in the past. The future promises an ever-changing
advisory role for clients on investments and taxes. Logan Kinyon transitioned from an internship to a full-time role in August. He is currently working on his securities licensing and will prepare tax returns this season. Kelly Tennie joined the company in August as an assistant to Jeff Nielsen. She brings prior investment experience and financial industry knowledge to our team. Tennie will provide investment administration and prepare tax returns this season. Feucht Financial Group expects continued growth of their investment, tax, consulting and accounting services this coming year. Due to growth, the company has expanded their work space with 1,500 square feet of additional work stations, a productivity center and a conference facility will provide space for larger employee and client educational seminars. Feucht Financial Group, LLC is located at N6687 Wrightway Drive, in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-921-6288 or visit fuechtfinancial.com. world of technology and online services. Even though some of the methods of doing business like bill paying and communication have changed, the one thing that has not and will not change at Smith & Hatch Insurance is the value placed on personal service. Smith & Hatch still believes a personal conversation with a client is the best way to assess their insurance needs. As they look back on 40 years of service, they also look forward to a future of continuing to provide clients with superior customer service. Smith & Hatch Insurance Agency’s offices are located at N3567 Fond du Lac County V., in Eden, which can be reached at 920-477-2424 and 203 Main St., in Kewaskum, which can be reached at 262-626-2277. For more information, visit smithandhatch.com.
Rewards for Good Choices
2016 marks 40 years Smith & Hatch has been in the insurance industry. We are still serving our clients from the same location we started. One of our top priorities has always been and will continue to be taking a personal interest in the people we serve and the communities they live in.
Step-Up Checking now offers young adults rewards for making good financial choices.
In an era of internet sales, we like to look back and thank our clients for the trust they have placed in our agency over the past 40 years. We sincerely appreciate it.
Learn more - www.nebat.com/step-up-checking www.nebat.com | 920.921.7700
We value our clients and the relationships we have built over the years. We look forward to continuing to provide our clients with superior customer service.
TWO GREAT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU:
(920) 477-2424 WI-5001971414
203 Main Street, Kewaskum
(262) 626-2277
SMITHANDHATCH.COM
WI-5001973719
N3567 Cty. Rd. V, Eden
Member FDIC
Section A • Business, Industry & Education
American Bank guided by
Progress
February 17, 2016
A7
‘people helping people’ philosophy
American Bank
To those that know and do business with them, American Bank is not loud, flashy or boastful. Instead, descriptions like humble, friendly, helpful and financially strong come to mind. Now in their 48th year, the locally owned and independent community bank continues to build on the principle envisioned by its founders as the people’s bank, delivering a style of banking they refer to as “One-to-One,” and a belief in the philosophy of people helping people. “The availability and experience level of our staff makes a big difference,” said Jed Keller. “Whether it’s being able to walk in without an appointment and sit down face-to-face with one of our lender’s to discuss their needs, or a friendly helpful chat over the phone to address a question, you won’t be kept waiting or wondering. Our staff is available and responsive to the needs of customer’s, they’re the ones we’re here for.” Kimberly Klaetsch, a residential mortgage lender, summed it up this way: “Our track record, low closing costs and the ability to avoid the red tape, sets us apart. Customers appreciate that decisions are made here, which speeds things up and keeps things running smooth and on schedule. There are many reasons American Bank continues to be the top mortgage provider in the community but at the core of it is our dedication to customers.” In community polling, the bank was
American Bank CEO Jim Chatterton Newly combined Hometown Bank and Farmers Exchange Bank staff members.
again voted Best Bank and Best Mortgage Company as part of the 2015 Reporter Readers Choice Awards. “When customers recommend us like that publicly and to their friends and family, makes us very proud of what we do,” said CEO Jim Chatterton. “That’s the ultimate compliment for all of us.” During 2015, the bank rolled out loan e-statements as another fast, efficient way for customers to access account information online, and began offering “People Pay.” People Pay is a fast, safe and secure way to send money to anyone. In 2016, the bank will begin the process of converting to the new EMV/Chip Cards, another enhancement to security for their customers. American Bank is located at 676 W. Johnson St. in Fond du Lac. The bank also has local branches in Brownsville and Mayville. For more information, call 920922-9292 or visit ambank.com.
Shareholders at Huberty & Associates gathered for a recent meeting. Pictured from left are Nathan Volkomener, Gary Born, Carla BiwanHameister, Greg Feucht and Ann Freund.
Hometown Bank
grows through high performance and acquisitions Hometown Bank
As a community lender, Hometown Bank believes that consultative, longterm relationships best serve our personal and business customers. The bank adopted a new strategic plan in August 2012, with a vision to be the premier provider of financial services to privately held businesses and their owners and employees within our markets. The main challenge was to redefine the bank’s public image and give employees the ability to deliver on it. The staff developed internal messaging, redesigned the website, developed targeted advertising campaigns and built a social presence to connect with customers and the community. Then, the bank expanded its services in response to what customers wanted but believed they could only get at a big national bank. This included convenience services like online banking, online bill pay and mobile banking. It also meant building up internal talent. One example in 2015 was the addition of a Treasury Management specialist and business segment. This responds directly to the strategic plan by enabling business customers to better manage their cash flow and understand their exposure
to fraud so they have fewer obstacles to reach their goals. In November 2015, Hometown Bancorp, Ltd., the parent company of Hometown Bank, acquired Farmers Exchange Bank, along with all three of its banking centers in Neshkoro, Wautoma and Redgranite. For stakeholders, this acquisition means earnings growth that will allow the bank to continue investing in the people and technology necessary to remain a local leader in community banking. The benefit to existing customers is more locations, which translates to greater convenience. For Farmers Exchange customers, greater access to physical branches is only the beginning. Having Hometown Bank as their lender gives them access for the first time to the advanced banking services they’ve been wanting for years. Hometown Bank continues to rank among the highest performing banks in Wisconsin, validating its vision and securing a bright future for the bank and its customers. Hometown Bank’s Fond du Lac offices include 245 N. Peters Ave. and 80 Sheboygan St. For more information, visit hometownbancorp.com or call 920-907-0788.
Woodley Retirement Solutions, LLC provides
Huberty CPA firms experiences assistance for financial questions
merger with Biwan & Biwan Dorothy Bliskey On behalf of Huberty CPA
Growth in all service areas and the addition of nine new employees made 2015 a banner year for Huberty CPAs & Trusted Advisors, a regional certified public accounting firm headquartered in Fond du Lac. Founded by Wayne Huberty in 1981, Huberty & Associates will be celebrating 35 years. As the new year kicked off, a merger had occurred just weeks earlier with Biwan & Biwan, S.C, a CPA firm based in Sheboygan and Minocqua. The acquisition brought the total number of Huberty office locations to six, with the newest sites – Sheboygan and Minocqua – joining the offices in Fond du Lac, Ripon, Markesan and Plymouth. Nine staff members were added, increasing the number of employees to 47. New hires include a manager in the Minocqua office, a tax manager in the Sheboygan office, a tax manager and a firm director of taxation in the Fond du Lac office, and a technology consulting position in the Plymouth office. Administrative and other entry-level positions were also added. New shareholders of the company in-
clude Carla Biwan-Hameister (Sheboygan and Minocqua) and Nathan Volkomener (Plymouth). They join Ann Freund, the firm’s managing shareholder, along with Gary Born (Ripon and Markesan) and Greg Feucht (Fond du Lac). All service areas – auditing, taxation, small business consulting, accounting technology consulting and financial services – experienced growth in 2015. “Every office has seen growth, not just the new offices,” Freund said. Converting the system to a paperless technology and workflow was a major shift at Huberty in 2015. The decision led to more efficient utilization of staff expertise across all outlying offices. “We hired Ivana Lee, a CPA and senior level staff person dedicated to the technology area,” Volkomener said. “She comes with Big-4-Firm experience. That level of staff is necessary for projects that can be incredibly complex. By adding her, we’ve expanded our service line to meet the client’s technology needs.” Huberty & Associates’ main office is located at 145 S. Marr St., Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-923-8400 or visit hubertycpas.com.
in changing economy
Woodley Retirement Solutions, LLC
When Scott Woodley started his career in Insurance & Financial Services in 1981, he never imagined that he would be doing what he does today. Serving the needs of clients throughout the area, Woodley has seen only one constant throughout his 34year career: Change. “As our world keeps changing, especially in today’s New Economy, it is extremely important to keep learning and retooling to meet the needs and goals of the clients we serve,” said Woodley. Woodley is presently the owner of Woodley Retirement Solutions, LLC. Jean, his spouse, is the Office Administrator in this family business. “As time goes on, we find ourselves serving the changing needs of our clients, many of whom are nearing or already in retirement,” said Woodley. “The demographic shift of the baby boomer generation (those born from 1946 through 1964 now aging into retirement and Medicare at 10,000 per day) are creating new challenges for planners especially with the implementation of the new Affordable Health Care Law.” The firm’s practice focuses on two main areas of client’s concern: Benefits
for retirement that include health insurance and Medicare planning, and income/ legacy planning designed to provide ample income during retirement and asset preservation for heirs. While providing tools and strategies to help younger clients build long-term assets for retirement, Woodley also provides the missing link: Helping clients work through the future income puzzle that all face once they have grown their assets or are within the last five years of retiring. “This distribution phase is vitally important because it is how we make our money last throughout our lifetimes. To give clients the edge they need, it is significant to open a dialog with clients well ahead of their planned retirement age, especially at age 59 or so, even if many don’t plan to retire for a few years,” said Woodley. Woodley Retirement Solutions, LLC represents many insurance and financial services companies to help fill the unique needs of each individual client served. Woodley Retirement Solutions, LLC, is located at 845 S. Main St., Suite 110, in Fond du Lac.
A8
Progress
February 17, 2016
Faith Lutheran Preschool
Section A • Business, Industry & Education
Audubon Society educates
opens in 2015, offers Christian values on, creates safe haven for birds
receives four-stars rating
Jesus’ Little Lambs Childcare Center
Jesus’ Little Lambs Childcare Center recently was certified as a four-star center by YoungStar. YoungStar is Wisconsin's child care quality rating and improvement system. YoungStar uses a five-star quality rating system for child care providers based on education, learning environment, business methods, and practices around child health and well-being. YoungStar is an initiative of the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families to improve, support, and recognize the continuous quality improvement efforts of early learning programs in Wisconsin. For more information, visit dcf.wisconsin.gov/ youngstar. JLL is one of only two four-star centers in the Fond du Lac area. Of the 4,112 programs in the state, only 201
have a four-star rating. This past year, JLL had a “Reaching for the Stars” campaign to improve the learning environment. Through this campaign we worked to improve the learning environment inside and outside the classroom with many new improvements, including new curriculums, equipment and furniture, and a new playground. Of the 22 staff members at JLL, 14 have bachelor or associate degrees in early childhood or elementary education. By the fall of 2016, two more staff members will have earned associate degrees in child development. We also have two teachers with their credentials. In addition, every staff member receives 25 hours of additional training throughout the year. For more information, visit gshep.net.
In 2015, Fond du Lac County Audubon Society shared enthusiasm on educational field trips to view prairie chickens dancing, jaegers bombing prey, and saw-whet owls migrating. The first Wednesday of each month, the society offer free programs on diverse topics: butterflies, bird identification, wetland management, and more. It distributes brochures on bird-friendly practices including keeping cats indoors, native landscaping and window safety. The Fond du Lac AuduSamantha and Tyler Hoffman with the birdhouses they constructed at Audubon’s bon chapter offers fun for Santa’s Workshop. families. Its Prairie Fest activity had a “mock” banding, aimed lic mustard and buckthorn. The society to teach children about the experience partners on a state and national level to of a banded bird. Its live birds of prey promote acquisition of critical habitat. program helped children imagine being It keeps up to date with legislation that a hawk or owl chasing a mouse. Santa’s impacts habitat. workshop taught basic birdhouse and To strengthen its cause, the society feeder construction. collaborated with the Gottfried Prairie The society promoted citizen sciand Arboretum, ParkWatch, Stuart’s Landscaping and Fond du Lac Bird City. ence with annual crane and Christmas bird counts. Members are contributing Do birds enhance the quality of your to the Wisconsin Breeding Bird Atlas, a life? Audubon members’ best moments herculean project aimed at documentof the year happened when we helped ing birds breeding in our state. October people feel this special bond. They exwas our first Big Sit at Lakeside Park; plored nature in local areas on several the data will be compiled with a nationSummer Evening Walks, watching and listening to birds. al eBird tally of migration. For information on the Fond du Lac Habitat preservation is key to keepCounty Audubon Society, visit fdlauduing birds. Volunteers toiled to rid local bon.org and find them on Facebook. parks of invasive species including gar-
Kidz Choice Learning Center at 574 Prairie Rd., Fond du Lac, WI 54935.
WI-5001971327
Li hi ttle Lambs C
s’
Stop in or call and register for our fall 4K program.
Jes u
If you child will turn four years of age by September 1, 2016, he/she is eligible to participate in the 4K program.
Good Sh
2016 4K
herd Luthera ep
hurch nC
Time to register for
e
'Jesus’ Little Lambs
Dr. Amy Sheldon Audubon Society President
c ar
Faith Lutheran Preschool is a new 4K program and child care program, which opened in August 2015. Faith Lutheran partners with parents in the education of the child. It highly encourages the involvement of parents and caregivers in the preschool and support the love and learning that continues in the home. At Faith Lutheran, teachers connect children and families to the love of their Savior, focusing on a message of forgiveness of sins and eternal life. At Faith Lutheran, students learn through experiences. Young children
learn best through a variety of handson experiences. The curriculum supports the active learning style of this age. Faith Lutheran also provides a safe, secure environment, promotion of Christian values, education of the whole child, a variety of programs and a professional staff. Faith Lutheran is now enrolling for the 2016-17 school year. Faith Lutheran Preschool is located at 55 Prairie Road, and can be reached at 920-923-6313. For more information, visit faithpreschoolfdl.com or find them on Facebook.
ld
Jamie Walta, Director, Lead Teacher Faith Lutheran Preschool
The family of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church invites you to join us as we share Christ’s love.
Sunday Services at 8:00 & 10:30 a.m. Sunday School and Bible Class 9:15 a.m. Monday Service 6:30 p.m. To learn more please call us at 921-8500 or visit our website at www.gshep.net 855 Martin Ave. Fond Du Lac, WI WI-500197400 WI-500 WI-5001974000 1974000 197400 0
THE SMSA Promise. We Develop... Creative Thinkers Caring Hearts
St. Mary’s Springs ACADEMY
Problem Solvers Healthy Lives
G N I N E P 6 2O 1 1 20 PK
L L FA
Progress
Section A • Business, Industry & Education
Saint Lawrence Seminary recovers from 2014 fire, expands footprint
Saint Lawrence Seminary
Built in 1860, Saint Lawrence Seminary has been through a lot of changes. During the past three years alone, the campus has endured a fire and four renovation projects. It all started with St. Anthony Hall, which houses the freshman and sophomores. In December 2013, the dorm was closed to begin the largest renovation project on campus in over three decades. It was a massive undertaking, over eight months, with crews working to have the project complete by the 2014-15 school year. The entire building was gutted, and approximately 3,000 square feet were added onto the west end of the building. Emphasis went into energy efficiency and emergency features, such as a state-of-the-art sprinkler system. On March 8, 2014, a fire broke out in St. Joseph Hall, the oldest buildings on campus. In its 142 years, St. Joseph Hall had served many purposes. This unexpected loss was met with generous support from the community, benefactors and alumni. With the completion of St. Anthony Hall, focus shifted to renovating St. Mary Hall, which began in December 2014. Construction teams completed the remodel and 13,000-square-foot expansion by the time the students returned for the 2015-16 school year. This al-
lowed for a modernized kitchen, infirmary, conference rooms, dining room and study hall, as well as an expanded junior dormitory and a new Development Office. On March 8, 2015, a year to date of the fire, ground was broken on the new St. Joseph Hall. The new building will be roughly 4,000 square feet larger than the old one. It will consist of a welcome center, a Benefactor’s Recognition Room, classrooms and offices. The new campus plan centralizes all the classrooms. Though the oldest building on campus was lost, the history in the new building will be present, as there will be a Heritage Room to display our history. St. Thomas Hall originally served the auditorium and gymnasium. Over the years, it has been repurposed to house the woodshop, art studio, student publication office, and a classroom. After the fire the Development Office moved in until St. Mary Hall was completed. And yet again, it is being for the music program, which was also displaced in the fire. Saint Lawrence Seminary is located at 301 Church St., in Mount Calvary. For more information, call 920-753-7500 or visit stlawrence.edu.
February 17, 2016
Fond du Lac Studio of Music opens in NFDL,
offers variety of classes Fond du Lac Studio of Music
The Fond du Lac Studio of Music, under the direction of Angela Volheim and Jim Bisek, developed from Volheim’s private studio into what it is now. Volheim met Bisek in the fall of 2010, and dreams started to fall into place for a much grander studio. The pair wanted to create a music studio that brought together dynamic teachers, competitive prices and unbeatable music education for any age level and ability. Volheim and Bisek believe a successful studio must: Create relationships; connect to the surrounding community; and develop not only the musician, but the person as a whole. The duo launched The Fond du Lac Studio of Music in September 2015. They hired five new staff members, including Alissa Davis, Alex Carroll, Jacob Garcia, Sydney Jurgensmier and Maria Reber. The studio offers private lessons and classes in piano, guitar, voice, percussion, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone and low brass. Intermediate through advanced students can participate in a competition program that prepares them for three different competitions in the Fond du Lac area and equips them to audition for music school at the collegiate level. The studio offers baby/toddler music classes for the youngest developing musician. Little ones are able to work
Brooke Jurgensmier performs at The Fond du Lac Studio of Music Holiday Spectacular.
alongside their parents in getting their first taste of the arts. The FDLSOM Show Groups are the face of the studio within the community. These performance-based groups dance, sing and entertain their way through Fond du Lac. The Fond du Lac Studio of Music has teamed up with The Little Farmer, The FDL Holiday Parade of Lights, The Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts, The Spillman Public Library, The FDL St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Breakfast on the Farm, Ripon Cookie Daze, The Campbellsport Fourth of July Parade and Prairie Fest to offer their musical gifts and entertainment. The Fond du Lac Studio of Music is located at 839 Minnesota Ave., North Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-979-2026, email fdlstudioofmusic@ gmail.com or visit fdlstudioofmusic.com.
Expplore the Differ rence
August, 2013
August, 2014
August, 2016
August, 2016
Renovation of St. Anthony Hall, houses freshman and sophomore students
Renovation of St. Mary Hall, junior dorm, dining room, Student Health Office and Development Office
Rebuild of St. Joseph Hall, which was lost in a fire, March 2014
Renovation of St. Thomas Hall Band/Choir Studio, Woodshop and Art Studio
looking forward to the future
www.stlawrence.edu WI-5001970377
A9
A10
February 17, 2016
Progress
Moraine Park Technical College
Section A • Business, Industry & Education
lists major changes, achievements in 2015 Moraine Park Technical College
Moraine Park Technical College saw major changes in 2015, from its physical appearance to top personnel and educational partnerships. The most significant change was Bonnie Baerwald being named Moraine Park Technical College president. That appointment came in May, after Baerwald had served as interim president following the departure of former president Sheila Ruhland in January. Baerwald has been with Moraine Park since 1993, serving in several roles for the college. “I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to serve Moraine Park and to help our students succeed – no matter what their goals,” Baerwald said. “Throughout this year and the next, our college focus will be on innovative programming and expanded services for all generations of learners, creating new initiatives to make Moraine
Park an employer of choice, enhancing and streamlining our administrative and instructional technologies; and, working with our educational partners and community leaders on Bonnie Baerwald innovative solutions to enhance career readiness and skilled workforce training for economic growth and success.” One significant partnership in 2015 came with Marian University. The two colleges agreed to offer 11 new academic transfer agreements, and also formed an “Educational Fusion” program. Students who engage “Fusion” may take courses at both institutions, while working toward both their associates and bachelor’s degrees. Another key change was the comple-
tion of a major addition and remodeling project in the spring. The project created a “one-stop shop” Student Services Center, along with a more architecturally prominent main entrance for the campus. In 2015, Moraine Park also strengthened its services and opportunities for military students and veterans. While Moraine Park was named a “Military Friendly” school for the sixth year in a row, in 2015 the college also ranked ninth place in the nation in the Military Times’ “Best for Vets” list; served as hosts for the second annual Wisconsin Technical College System Veterans Services Summit in November; and Baerwald and Dr. Stan Cram, Moraine Park’s vice president of student affairs both received the Employer Support
Marian University inspires community
through new educational opportunities Marian University
The inspiration to earn a post-secondary degree comes to individuals at different times in life, whether right out of high school or after several years of work and life experience. For almost 80 years, Marian University has been inspiring the Fond du Lac and surrounding communities through offering innovative, in-demand educational opportunities. Family Nurse Practitioner Program To accommodate the growing needs of today’s health care environment, Marian University has launched its Family Nurse
Practitioner graduate program. Marian has moved its adult gerontology nurse practitioner program to a family nurse practitioner program, allowing graduates to meet the needs of the nursing industry and find expanded job opportunities. This master’s level program is offered at Marian’s Fond du Lac, Appleton and West Allis campuses, and focuses on a personalized, cohort approach. Graduates of the program are well prepared for their role, as evidenced by the fact that since December 2013, graduates have continued to achieve a 100 percent pass rate on the national certification exam.
Marian University’s Family Nurse Practitioner program serves to educate nurses in caring for individuals of all ages, from infants to the elderly. With this broad range of patients, Marian’s graduates are able to enhance health care opportunities in their communities. Master of Science in Organizational Leadership Program The 21st century business landscape requires knowledgeable leaders who are able to meet the demands of today’s fast-paced, global business environment. Marian University’s Master of Science in Organizational
of the Guard and Reserve Patriot Award. Moraine Park Technical College also became the first technical college in the United States to achieve Fair Trade status, a global trade model that promotes the purchase and sale of goods produced ethically and fairly. Moraine Park Technical College is located at 235 N. National Ave. For more information, call 800-472-4554 or visit morainepark.edu. Leadership helps meet this growing need for quality leaders. This master’s program is offered at Marian’s Fond du Lac, Appleton and West Allis campuses, as well as in a 100 percent online format, and prepares business professionals who can lead their organization through putting theory into practice. Courses can be completed in as few as seven weeks, and the degree program can be completed in as few as 21 months. Marian’s Master of Science in Organizational Leadership serves to prepare business professionals to lead and empower others, as well as find innovative answers to the challenges faced in today’s business world. Marian University is located at 45 S. National Ave., in Fond du Lac. For more information on admission, call 920-923-7650 or email admission@marianuniversity.edu.
Section A • Business, Industry & Education
Oakfield School District
Progress
February 17, 2016
A11
updates mission statement, sets targeted goals Oakfield School District
In the past year, the school board, staff, students, parents, community members and the administrative team in the Oakfield School District created a five-year strategic plan, resulting in an updated mission statement, a new brand, and these five targeted goal areas: • Ensure academic success for all • Enhance communication • Maximize resources • Increase student enrollment • Deepen relationships, character and community The district had the opportunity to upgrade its secondary school with a new gym floor and bleachers, hallway and cafeteria flooring, student lockers, and improvements to the FFA greenhouse. These help to maintain a safe, engaging and supportive learning environment for our students and staff. Through the strength of a dynamic instructional team of educators, support staff and administration, Oakfield has strong focus on academic excellence with the implementation of instructional practices, collaborative teaching teams in the Professional
Learning Community model and the use of the Response to Intervention system to meet the needs of individual students. The curriculum is progressive and rigorous, focusing on literacy across all subject areas and building on reading and writing skills at all levels. They are able to offer seven Advanced Placement classes to students and a range of business and vocational classes that will ensure that students are college and career ready. In support of its academic programming, Oakfield moves forward in great strides with technology at all levels. They have provided each student in elementary, middle school and high school with a one-to-one device, enhancing their opportunities to learn and increasing their instructional technology knowledge in both hardware and software. Also, a new program called “Tech Ninjas” was developed to respond to building-wide technology needs of students and staff. Oakfield is in the second year of a six-year school referendum exemplifying the strong partnership between
Pictured are students from a second-grade class at Oakfield Elementary School, from left: Jaelyn Wallendal, Willow Ann McKibbage-Rickert, Stacey Hein, K-6 Art Teacher Eleanor Collies, James Krantz, Bo Bijl. Sitting are: in white, Brayden Glugla; in red, Aston Hanke.
the district and its many community partners, especially the families of our student body. The staff looks forward to more successes, high academic achievement and being able to offer students a range of extra-curricular
WI-5001972525
929-3170 | http://fonddulac.uwex.edu | 400 University Drive in Fond du Lac Stay informed on
Fond du Lac County UW-Extension
During the summer, 4-H visited Green Meadows, a mobile home park located northwest of the city of Fond du Lac, where the schools, library and parks are located on the opposite side of Interstate 41 than where the community is located. Youth are not able to walk, bike or bus to activities. Twenty-eight percent of residents are Hispanic, had no previous knowledge about the 4-H program and are not involved in any community events/programs. Speaking with some of the residents, the interest in parent-child activities and learning opportunities was eminent. FLOOD’s Homes, the property’s owner, supported our efforts to bring educational programs to this community and provided us with a space to meet. UW-Extension staff visited residents to provide information and extend the invitation for the program coming to their community during the summer. The summer program consisted of five sessions, the topics were chosen to: Help participants understand the 4-H program; provide life skill, leadership and citizenship development; involve experiential (hands-on learning); and incorporate the four essential elements of positive youth development (belonging, mastery, independence, generosity). A total of 15 youth participated in the program, building paper rockets, creating crafts from recyclable materials and even making their own ice cream. Participants expressed their interest to participate in the upcoming programs and expressed their interest to meet more often. They enjoyed working on their projects, they were cooperative and well behaved, older members helped the younger ones and they truly enjoyed having something to take home and show their parents. You could hear a sense of pride as each one of them talked about their projects. The youth gained ownership of the program by making decisions (group name, design and taking care of the
Winnebago Lutheran Academy exists to glorify God by nurturing the growth of every student to live as Christ's child within their families, congregations, and communities."
Estrella Falcon participates in a 4-H program over the summer.
group’s sign, etc.). Parents appreciated the opportunity for their children and receiving information and materials written in Spanish. UW-Extension recognize the importance of creating a space for youth to empower them and develop their special interests and will continue programming in this area. The Fond du Lac County UW-Extension is located at 400 University Drive in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920929-3170 or visit fonddulac.uwex.edu.
The Oakfield School District operates from 200 White St., Oakfield. For more information, call 920-583-4117 or visit oakfield.k12.wi.us.
We empower residents with University research-based information on natural resources health & nutrition money management farm profitability youth programming parenting
Fond du Lac County UW-Extension expands
programming to Hispanic community
and athletic experiences.
WI-5001972200
uwexfdl
Se habla español
Section A • Business, Industry & Education Progress Fond du Lac School District sees new personnel, STEM expansion, football conference champions A12
February 17, 2016
Fond du Lac School District
New personnel Amy Jahn begins her fifth year in the Fond du Lac School District, and her first year as principal at Pier Elementary. She began her career in education teaching grades nine through 12 in Selma, Alabama, followed by several years at Campbellsport High School and Fond du Lac High School. She earned a master's degree in education leadership from Cardinal Stritch College in May 2015, and was a 6-12 instructional coach in the Fond du Lac district. Dave Michalkiewicz is the new Athletic Director and K-12 Physical Education Coordinator. Before coming to Fond du Lac, his professional career was spent at Belmont Community School District. During his nine-year tenure,
he held the positions of middle and high school classroom teacher, Athletic Director, varsity boys basketball coach and varsity boys baseball coach. Katie Moder is the new Chegwin Elementary School principal. Moder completed her undergraduate work at UW-Oshkosh and graduated with a master’s degree in curriculum from National Louis University and a master’s degree in administration from Marian College with licenses in pupil services and principal. Moder has spent 15 years as an elementary school teacher and four years as an educational coach. She has expertise in family engagement and educating students with special education needs. STEM expansion Fond du Lac STEM Institute is ex-
panding to include high school grade levels beginning with the addition of ninth grade in the fall of 2016. Another grade level will be added each year until the school serves Amy Jahn grades six through 12 in the fall of 2019. The first group of students to graduate from STEM Institute will be the class of 2020. STEM Institute is a student-driven, project-based learning school. For tours, call 920-906-6722. Fond du Lac High School football conference champs The Fond du Lac High School foot-
Katie Moder
Dave Michalkiewicz
ball team completed its season on Nov. 6, 2015, with a record of 10-2, which is the same record as its 2014 campaign, representing the first two back-to-back 10-win seasons. The Cardinals also won the Valley Football Association – South Division with a conference record of 7-1, their first conference title since 2002.
Shepherd of the Hills Catholic School modifies
preschool, childcare programs Shepherd of the Hills Catholic School
With a check representing the proceeds from the Corks & Forks fundraiser are UW-Fond du Lac planning team members and Foundation representatives. Pictured are left to right: Kathy Strong Langolf, special events coordinator; Bethany Rusch, regional associate dean for administration and finance; Laurie Krasin, marketing and communications director; Rhonda Stucky, Foundation executive director; Brian Jones, Foundation past board president; and John Short, former dean and CEO.
UW-Fond du Lac Foundation fundraising success leads to increased scholarships
UW-Fond du Lac Foundation
The University of Wisconsin-Fond du Lac Foundation partnered with the University of Wisconsin-Fond du Lac for the 2015 Corks & Forks signature fundraising event. The event raised $27,665 for student scholarships and the UW-Fond du Lac Foundation, a 32 percent increase from the previous year. The 200 guests enjoyed a four-course Caribbean-inspired dinner along with selected wines. The evening also included the presentation of the 2015 Spirit of Excellence Award to Jim and Ginny Gilmore. Thanks in part to the success of this event, the UW-Fond du Lac Foundation reached a new record for scholarship awards, with more than $36,000 in scholarships awarded to more than 40 students for the 2015-16 academic year. When the Foundation received its
charter in 1974, its purpose was to provide student scholarships, support professional development of faculty and staff and other educational projects. With the ongoing regionalization and consolidation at UW-Fond du Lac, the Foundation is revisiting its Strategic Plan to find new ways to address its mission and support the campus during this transition. Save the date: Fundraising efforts that support the UW-Fond du Lac Foundation goals include the Annual Campaign, which is underway, and the fourth Annual Corks & Forks Fundraiser, which is scheduled for March 23. French cuisine and wines, along with lively fundraising, will be the highlights of the evening. For more information, call 920-9291337 or email uwfdlfoundation@uwc. edu.
Shepherd of the Hills Catholic School has made several changes to their preschool and childcare programs this year to provide several choices and a better fit for children’s needs. The goal of Shepherd of the Hills School is to establish a Catholic learning environment that supports the parents in the development of the whole child with emphasis on faith, academics and service. New preschool playground equipment was installed this year consisting of three slides, a rock wall, several climbing and balancing devices, a crawling tube and two rocking horses. “This new playground provides a safe, age appropriate play area to best fit the needs of our youngest children ages 3 through 6,” said Jeanne Bitkers, principal. Shepherd of the Hills provides a preschool program for 3-year-olds two mornings a week from 8 to 10:30 a.m. This can also be used with wrap-around childcare services. The half-day 4-year-old kindergarten has two different options to fit your family’s educational needs. Parents can now choose from a “three mornings a week” or “five mornings a week” program that runs from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Core content is taught Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and specialty and enrichment classes are provided on Tuesday and Thursday. The new Shepherd of the Hills school bus picks up and drops off children at the Knights of Columbus parking lot in Fond du Lac. The Camp-
Shepherd of the Hills Catholic School students are enjoying their playground equipment installed this year. Students pictured on the slide are: Grayson Laughlin, Sophie Wilke, Remy Holzmann, Jack Gitter, Trevin Goebel, Ayda Rentmeester and Chloe Masarik.
bellsport School District also buses children to Shepherd of the Hills. Childcare at school is now open to the public this year. In addition to wrap-around care, they now provide childcare full time every day, on inservice days and during holiday breaks throughout the school year. There is also drop-in childcare, which allows flexibility for the parent. Shepherd of the Hills childcare is a safe environment just 18 minutes southeast of Fond du Lac and 13 minutes north of Campbellsport. Shepherd of the Hills is located at W1562 Fond du Lac County B, in Eden. For more information, call 920-477-3551, visit sothparish.org or find them on Facebook.
Fond du Lac County UW-Extension fights poverty, hunger Fond du Lac County UW-Extension
Poverty and hunger are both complex problems that require complex solutions. Due to a variety of factors, estimated poverty rate in Fond du Lac County increased significantly from 5.8 percent in 2000 to 9.6 percent in 2008-2012. During this same time, Food Share (3.3 percent in 2000 to 15.2 percent in 2013) and Free/Reduced Lunch (16 to 38 percent in 2013) participation rose. Community food security, in a broad sense, is a prevention-oriented concept that supports the development and enhancement of sustainable, community based strategies. It involves collaboration from multi-sectors of the local/regional food system, including farmers/growers, local businesses,
community agencies and government organizations. This approach addresses a diverse range of issues related to food security, including food access/affordability, obesity and chronic diseases related to hunger, agriculture and community development. The multi-year collaboration between Fond du Lac County University of Wisconsin-Extension, the Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership and the Living Well FDL Coalition is one such example of this approach. To highlight a few of the successes and efforts: • The implementation of the Electronic Benefits Transfer has enabled FoodShare participants to purchase healthy foods at the market. In 2015, $3,607 was spent
on the local economy, as opposed to larger chain stores. • An estimated $6,347 WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) Farmers Market Nutrition Program vouchers were redeemed at the market. • UW-Extension’s Wisconsin Nutrition Education Program (WNEP) and Living Well FDL offered farmers market tours to Head Start, WIC and Fond du Lac Senior Center families and individuals. Tours provided education on navigating the market, using the EBT machine, and selecting and storing healthy produce. UW-Extension has also provided monthly demonstrations on safely canning/ preserving produce.
• The incentive program “Double Days” was sponsored by the Fond du Lac YMCA, which doubles $10 EBT transactions on four separated dates, allowing EBT customers an additional $420 to spend at the market. • An extensive $60,000 marketing campaign was funded by a Farmers Market Promotional Program grant in 2015. A new grant for $28,000 was awarded to spend on additional targeted outreach to EBT and WIC recipients from 2016-18. The Fond du Lac County UW-Extension is located at 400 University Drive, in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920929-3170 or visit fonddulac.uwex.edu.
Section A • Business, Industry & Education
Piano Playground’s
Progress
Gray qualifies as WSMA piano judge, trains students Piano Playground
In 2015, Piano Playground, a Fond du Lac area piano studio owned by Barb Gray, offered expanded opportunities for student performances and festivals. This year, Gray significantly increased her collaboration with Wisconsin School Music Association. In addition to judging piano performances around the state, she added vocal and woodwind performances to her judging assignments. Qualifying as a WSMA judge requires a high level of experience and expertise, as well as ongoing testing and training. Many of the students in Gray’s studio regularly participate in piano festivals. Her work as a WSMA judge helps her to prepare her students to understand what’s expected of them, and helps her students perform at a high level in those competitions. Along with piano festivals, Gray’s students also participate in annual recitals, as well as Christmas at the Mall. Her students also gather each quarter for Piano Parties, which allow students to perform for each other, and participate in music-oriented games and activities. During private lessons, Gray’s
Fourteen of Barb Gray’s students participated in solo/ensemble contests and the Fond du Lac Piano Teachers Association festival. Pictured are, front row, from left: Reo Huh and Paige Freiberg. Second row, from left: Emily Freiberg, Lily MIller and Lauren Werner. Third row, from left: Gavin Rose, LIlly Diedrich, Grace Groeschel and Laura Curry. Fourth row, from left: Jenna Roth, Connor Hamm, Jenna Cataina, Margaret Rose and Tiara Thurow.
students also learn to compose songs, study music theory and composers, and play ear training games. Gray teaches ages 3 to adult. For the youngest students, she also teaches at many area child care centers. Gray teaches weekdays beginning at 6:30 a.m., as well as after school. In between, she often teaches home-school students and adults. For more information, visit the Piano Playground Facebook Page, email barb@pianoplayground.com, or call 920979-9229.
February 17, 2016
Marchant Schmidt, Inc.
A13
promotes Knoke, hires Rowen Marchant Schmidt, Inc.
As Marchant Schmidt, Inc. continues to grow internationally, it recognizes the need for additional resources to support new customer relationships. Keith Knoke was promoted to International Sales Manager in July of 2015. Knoke has been an asset with the Sales Department for almost four years as the Central Regional Account Manager. In his new role, Knoke will be responsible for overseeing international sales for Marchant Schmidt USA, in addition to maintaining and developing new international sales representatives worldwide. His territories include Europe, Asia, South America, Australia and Eastern Canada. With this new endeavor, Knoke’s focus will be to enhance our international sales and allow MSI to increase their global leadership in the world market. Knoke has demonstrated considerable success over the last four years in the U.S. Central territories and he is looking forward to this new challenge. As Knoke takes on this new assignment, Marchant Schmidt welcomes Chad Rowen to its team as the new Central Regional Account Manager
Chad Rowen, left, was hired on at Marchant Schmidt Inc. in 2015, and Keith Knoke was promoted to International Sales Manager.
for Marchant Schmidt, Inc. Rowen has more than 20 years of sales experience and is very knowledgeable with the application of electrical controls and industrial automation. Rowen developed a solid relationship with many of our employees while he was a sales representative for one of our top vendors. These promotions reflect the company’s commitment to excellence and growth. Marchant Schmidt, Inc. is located at 24 Larsen Drive in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-921-4760 or visit marchantschmidt.com.
UW-Fond du Lac enacts solar panel installation project UW-Fond du Lac
Investing in energy improvements at UW-Fond du Lac results in efficiencies, cost savings and educational opportunities A $1 million investment in energyrelated capital equipment at UW-Fond du Lac during 2015 will mean improved energy efficiencies, significant utility cost savings and educational opportunities for students and the community. The project is funded through the estimated future net savings of $47,000 per year in utility costs along with an investment of $346,000 from Fond du Lac County, which owns and maintains the buildings on the UW-Fond du Lac campus. “In exchange for the $346,000 invested by the county, we received $1.1 million in capital equipment improvements,” said Allen Buechel, Fond du Lac County executive. “The county’s investment also shortened the payback period of the project.” A solar panel installed during this project is not only a source of renewable energy, it also provides learning opportunities. Science professors are already utilizing it in their courses and
an educational energy kiosk installed in the University Center Commons displays the solar panel output in real time and the total energy savings being seen at UW-Fond du Lac. The most significant part of the energy project was replacement of three existing chillers with one central chiller/ bank system. The replacement of these units which cool the campus buildings was a major capital upgrade to aging equipment and resulted in a solution that meets the future needs of the campus while saving energy. Improvements were also made to lighting, power management, building insulation and water usage. “Replacing older equipment to improve energy efficiency isn’t anything new,” said John Short, UW-Fond du Lac dean and CEO during the project. “What’s unique is the ability to use future savings in utility costs to pay for the improvements and take advantage of new technologies. This means there was no additional state taxpayer costs for these improvements.” The public/private partnership between Fond du Lac County, H&H
A solar panel was installed at UW-Fond du Lac as part of a recent $1 million investment in energy improvements on the campus. The solar panel is a source of renewable energy and provides learning opportunities for students. Pictured from left are: Regional Associate Dean for Administration and Finance Bethany Rusch; Fond du Lac County Director of Administration Erin Gerred; Fond du Lac County Executive Allen Buechel; UW-Fond du Lac Dean/CEO at time of project John Short; Regional Executive Officer/Dean Martin Rudd; Buildings and Grounds Superintendent Mitchell Showers and Custodial Supervisor Rick Retelle.
Energy Management and the university was made possible through a State of Wisconsin energy savings performance contract.
UW-Fond du Lac is located at 400 University Drive, in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-929-1100 or visit fdl. uwc.edu.
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A14
Progress
February 17, 2016
Section A • Business, Industry & Education
The Potratz Custom Carpentry team recently gathered for a Christmas party. Pictured are, from left, Karl Bruins, Darryl Zick, Brian Brown, Nathan Potratz, Scott Foster, and Linda Zick.
Pictured are, from left: Mary Alaniz, John Olson and Melissa Schick, posing with two of the ServiceMaster vans.
updates fleet, equipment to serve multi-county area
childhood vision comes true in cleaning business
Potratz Custom Carpentry
Gary Clausius, on behalf of ServiceMaster
Potratz Custom Carpentry For many years, drivers heading west from Fond du Lac on State 23 saw the McDermott Pumps billboard on the north side of the highway. The billboard had been a fixture in the landscape for many years; recently, the sign changed hands. Nathan Potratz, originally of Rosendale, and owner of Potratz Custom Carpentry, had the opportunity to put his own billboard up in its place. Specializing in remodels and new
64 years in Lomira
SCHRAUFNAGEL IMPLEMENT, INC. HWY. 67•LOMIRA
269-4307 www.schraufnagel.com E-mail: lomira@schraufnagel.com WI-5001973451
construction, Potratz started his building company in 2009. In 2015, he was fortunate to complete more than 100 projects. He and his crew serve Fond du Lac, Winnebago and surrounding counties. Potratz stayed involved in community events around the area and even participated in the Eldorado, Eden, Van Dyne and Alto parades throughout the summer months. In 2015 Potratz updated his fleet, replacing a truck, trailer and skid loader. He was able to purchase a new and more efficient spray foam machine that helps keep more foam inside the home when applying it. Potratz employs four full-time and two part-time employees. To continue offering reliable, honest building and remodeling services, Potratz became a member of the Wisconsin Better Business Bureau. In January, his team will be attending the KBIS show (Kitchen and Bath Industry Show) in Las Vegas, Nevada. The show will provide Potratz and his team innovative ideas in style and construction of kitchen and bath projects. Potratz Custom Carpentry is based out of his N4764 Martin Road, Fond du Lac, location. For more information, visit potratzcarpentry.com or facebook. com/PotratzCarpentry.
WI-5001973153
Stampings • Laser • Wire EDM • Tool & Die Production Machining & Turning Main: (920) 922-9814 Fax: (920) 922-8088
Nathan
33 East Larsen Drive Fond du Lac, WI 54937 info@muthigind.com www.muthigind.com
Potratz
Custom Carpentry, LLC Remodeling & New Construction 920.410.4146 facebook.com/potratzcarpentry www.potratzcarpentry.com WI-5001974078
ServiceMaster: Olson's When John Olson was growing up on Boyle Place on the northeast side of Fond du Lac in the early 1970s, he already had a clear vision of what he wanted to do with his life. “He always knew what he was going do,” said his older sister, Mary Alaniz. “He was going to own a business and when he was about 10 he said, ‘someday I’m going to hire you.’ That was the kind of guy he was.” Olson, 51, a 1982 Goodrich High School graduate who went on to earn a degree in Business Administration from UW-Oshkosh, has proved himself right on all counts. After working in sales for 2 1/2 years, Olson bought Fond du Lac’s ServiceMaster commercial janitorial and cleaning franchise in 1989, and under his guidance has seen it grow from seven to approximately 95 full- and part-time employees with a fleet of 15 vehicles. And, true to his word, Olson hired Alaniz as his office manager eight years ago. “My thought when I was in high school was to work to get into partner-
ship with a small business that I could run with. ... I didn’t care what type of business, just something that could grow,” Olson said. ServiceMaster provides cleaning for more than 110 facilities and services hundreds of other clients on an on-call basis. Among its prominent customers are Agnesian HealthCare, J.F. Ahern Co., Fox Valley Savings and Loan, Schreiner's Restaurant and Society Insurance. “Over the years we have cleaned just about everything imaginable in a commercial building,” Olson said. “On one end of the spectrum, we have crawled through duct work and furnaces on paint lines to vacuum and wipe down the interior walls. On the other end, we have cleaned hospitals and major clinics in addition to performing the final detailing for banks, insurance companies and countless other facilities for grand openings or visiting dignitaries.” Despite a sluggish economy, the company has seen double-digit growth the past four years and has annual revenue of about $2 million. ServiceMaster is located at 353 S. Pioneer Road in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-923-0652.
City of Waupun
sees growth in business community City of Waupun
The City of Waupun experienced continued growth of its business community in 2015 and is positioned for future expansion with a specific focus on economic development in the new year. Accel Automotive with support from the Community Development Authority completed a renovation project of the facility located at 99 Fond du Lac St. The completed project enhances the exterior façade of this growing business. Accel Automotive has ASE Master certified mechanics on staff for all of your automotive repair needs. Club Fitness, located at 306 E. Main St., celebrated their 10-year business anniversary with a customer appreciation event in July. Club Fitness expanded programming this year for youth athletes and offers a full range of services for community members in Waupun and the surrounding area, including a variety of fitness classes, boot camps, personal training and small group training. Flexographic Packaging Company, producer of flexible packaging materi-
Tyler Schulz, left, and Jud Werner of Werner-Harmsen Funeral Home celebrate the grand opening of their new Event Center.
als, completed a 20,000-square-foot addition to their Taylor Street plant in the spring of 2015. Renovation of the Werner-Harmsen Funeral Home and the building addition of the new Werner-Harmsen Event Center began in September. Crews are still hard at work on this project, which will provide a setting for catered events such as funerals, luncheons, reunions and other celebrations for up to 120 people. The City of Waupun added a position of Economic Development Planner in 2015 to support economic growth and joined the IGNITE! Business Network, in partnership with Fond du Lac County Economic Development, bringing and array of resources to entrepreneurs in our community who are interested in both starting and expanding their businesses.
Progress Buechel Stone wins family business award, reclaims quarries
Section A • Business, Industry & Education
Buechel Stone Corp.
2015 was a year of accomplishments for Buechel Stone. The company was a recipient of the Annual Family Business First Award. This award recognizes family businesses making a difference in Northeast Wisconsin. Along with being family-owned and managed; businesses that are nominated have a success story in sales, innovation, economic impact, profits and employment, as well as a history of giving back to the communities in which they operate. Buechel Stone also kicked off a new wellness plan for the employees. Things such as company-wide step competitions, activities and community involvement are just a few of the highlights. Included in the wellness plan are charitable initiatives, which resulted in roughly $20,000 in donations to more than 20 organizations
with most of the charities being chosen by individual employees. Along with gains, there were some big losers. Collectively, employees lost almost 500 pounds during the year by making healthier lifestyle choices. Quarries don’t last forever, so Buechel Stone spent a good amount of time reclaiming quarries at their Oakfield location. In the past two years, they have reclaimed approximately 11 acres of land. This process requires using fill stored on the land with topsoil covering the top of the fill. It also includes the addition of small ponds that wildlife can access. The intent for the reclaimed land is to have it farmed again in a few years once it has settled. “We believe in all aspects of the quarrying process, which means we do what we say,” said Scott Buechel, executive vice
Action Advertiser, The Reporter undergo changes
in structure, expand coverage USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
New editors, new reporters, new advertising leadership and a new mission. In 2015, Action Advertiser and The Reporter underwent a series of fundamental changes to their newsroom and advertising structures in order to strengthen their connections with newsrooms across the state and nation and provide better advertising solutions for local businesses. Gannett, the parent company of Action Advertiser and The Reporter, rolled
out a new initiative in spring 2015 to realign its newsrooms to better serve the growing digital audience and to reallocate positions to move more people out of newsrooms and into the communities they cover. “We knew for a long time that our newsrooms were structured on a model that made sense in the early 1990s when we didn’t have a huge digital audience,” said Joel Christopher, vice president of news for Gannett’s Wisconsin newsrooms. “We needed to restructure our newsrooms to publish news on a cycle
February 17, 2016
Buechel Stone Corp. started a reclamation process at one of their quarries in Oakfield in 2015.
president. “Reclamation is important to us. If you truly want to be a good member of the community, it means doing the right things for the people living where we do business.” Buechel Stone is presently hiring for
both first and second shift.
that matches our audience’s reading habits and provide our news report as strongly on our digital platforms as we do in print.” Action Advertiser and The Reporter were linked more tightly to Gannett’s other Wisconsin newsrooms – 10 dailies and a collection of non-dailies throughout the eastern and central parts of the state – and a new local editor, Mark Barna, was brought on board. With more time and effort dedicated to reporting, Action Advertiser and The Reporter have seen significant increases in their online audiences, particularly among those using smartphones to access their news. The Reporter also bulked up its state news report and began a more collaborative news-gathering strategy with its sister papers in Oshkosh and Appleton, a reflection of the commuting and shopping
habits of residents of the Interstate 41 corridor. “More and more research points to the amount of travel – for work, for shopping, for entertainment – along the Interstate 41 corridor, and we wanted to make sure we can provide a news report that reflects that reality, as well as advertising options for the businesses in Fond du Lac and surrounding communities that rely on those interactions,” said Pam Henson, regional president and publisher of Action Advertising and The Reporter. More recently, Gannett also rebranded its Wisconsin news operation as USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin, linking its local newsrooms to its nationwide network to provide a more robust news report that relies on providing the best local reporting for the national news report, and vice versa.
Buechel Stone’s showroom is located at N4399 State 175, south of Fond du Lac, and they can be reached at 920-922-4790. For more information, visit buechelstone.com.
Planning for Success
BUECHEL STONE [‘bē-k l stōn]
Doing What’s Right
e
masonry noun. Buechel Stone provides the best, most dependable experience in the natural stone industry - guaranteed! Our track record spans over fifty years of success in sales, innovation, economic impact, profits, employment, giving back to our communities, and just plain delivering on our word by doing what’s right in business, in the community, and for the environment. We’re looking forward to more good things in 2016 and hiring for both first and second shifts! See more information about current openings and apply on-line at our website http://www.buechelstone.com/employment.php.
www.buechelstone.com | e: info@buechelstone.com | ph: 800.236.4473
A15
Now Hiring - Join Our Team!
Section A • Business, Industry & Education Progress Ahern adds fire alarm monitoring, Michels Corporation builds cold storage, adds 10 acres puts in 2.2 million man hours A16
February 17, 2016
Michels Corporation
Red pickup trucks and 10,000 pieces of heavy equipment at construction sites from coast to coast are among the most recognizable calling cards of Michels Corporation, a Brownsville-based utility contractor. Less recognizable, but critically essential, are the 200 people who work behind the gates at Michels’ Brownsville yard. Housed in 20 buildings spread across 120 acres surrounding the utility contractor’s headquarters, the yard team supports those trucks and equipment pieces and performs other vital tasks to keep Michels operating at maximum efficiency at jobsites throughout North America. In 2015, a cold storage building and nearly 10 acres were added to increase the capacity of the Brownsville yard. The work done in Michels’ Brownsville yard is as impressive as it is imperative to the company’s day-today operations, said Dave Wilhelms, Michels Director of Equipment Operations. “We consider our work to be well done when equipment starts, supplies arrive and work is able to be performed in an efficient manner,” Wilhelms said.
maintained, appropriate equipment into the hands of talented crews and letting them use them.
J. F. Ahern Co.
That principle holds true today as those who work in the various shops in the Brownsville yard customize and maintain nearly every piece of equipment – from chain saws to massive drill rigs – to make sure it will meet the rigors and safety standards of a Michels job site. Additionally, the yard team maintains all Michels vehicles, from passenger cars and pickup trucks to semi tractors and quad-axel dump trucks; designs and fabricates specialty pieces of equipment; and maintains an inventory of parts and supplies required to meet the needs of projects across North America. “We rely on the expertise, creativity and hard work of the people in our yard to keep our trucks rolling and our equipment running,” Wilhelms said. “We are fortunate to have many dedicated people and are always looking for more.” Save the date: Michels will hold a career fair from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25, at the Brownsville Community Center. For more information, visit michelscareers.us.
The Brownsville yard has always been integral to Michels Corporation. Michels founder Dale Michels firmly believed that extraordinary work could be accomplished by putting well
Michels Corporation is located at 817 W. Main St., Brownsville. For more information, call 920-583-3132 or visit michels.us.
Trust your HVAC System to the ONLY Factory Authorized Bryant Dealer in Fond du Lac County!
Fire protection systems that keep a facility safe. HVAC (short for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems that maintain comfortable temperatures. Plumbing systems that provide water and sanitation. This is the work that J.F. Ahern Co. (commonly called “Ahern”) performs. Even massive industrial facilities like wastewater plants and underground utility networks have been built with the help of Ahern professionals.
In 2015, the Ahern team saw the results of their hard work and dedication reflected in projects across the Midwest and beyond. The company logged an impressive 2.2 million man hours in 2015, working on jobs throughout its five-state Midwestern territory as well as select projects across the United States. Locally, Ahern broke ground on high-profile projects such as the St. Mary’s Springs High School expansion and Grande Cheese headquarters. J.F. Ahern continued on page A17
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From finding the land on which to build, to developing the precise plan, through complete construction, our focus is always on you and your needs. Start with Keller and the final result will be an exact fit for you and your business. Keller, Inc. has been building in and around the Fond du Lac area for 55 years. Thank you to all the businesses in Fond du Lac County who have built with Keller and helped the Fond du Lac area grow. Call today to help Fond du Lac County continue that growth and discover for yourself the “Keller” difference.
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Progress
Section A • Business, Industry & Education
February 17, 2016
JG Custom Cabinetry & Design sees increase in staff,
A17
projects despite State 26 construction
JG Custom Cabinetry & Design
International Paper
employees make 40-year milestone Michael Soelke, manufacturing manager, at left, congratulated Joseph Koenen and Alan Schaefer on reaching 40 years of service at International Paper. International Paper is located at 981 S. Hickory St., in Fond du Lac, and can be reached at 920-921-9600. For more information, visit internationalpaper.com. J.F. Ahern continued from page A16
Other noteworthy events in 2015 include: • The company’s landmark Milwaukee office was granted LEED Gold Certification. • Fire alarm monitoring was added to Ahern’s service offerings.
• The Milwaukee Business Journal named Ahern one of “Wisconsin’s Healthiest Employers.” • Engineering News-Record (ENR) magazine ranked Ahern #79 on their annual list of the nation’s Top 600 Specialty Contractors. Ahern was founded in Fond du Lac in 1880. While the company has grown to
We answer to our community and to the world.
CELEBRATING 58 YEARS IN FOND DU LAC We are proud of our employees and we salute them! These employees will achieve 1,755 Years of Combined Service in 2016
40 PLUS YEARS
10-19 YEARS
Abundio Velasco (47) Greg Dauterman (44) Lester Elsinger (44) John Bebow (43) L. John Dolan (43) Gary Freund (43) John Hansen (43) Pat Smet (43) Jeff Sonnenberg (43) Al Immel (42) Wayne Kaufman (41) Joe Koenen (40) Al Schaefer (40)
Connie Etta (19) Jeff Schneider (19) Jim Ziesmer (19) Diane Wagner (18) Michelle Hammang (17) Kevin Kleinschmidt (17) Melanie Machmueller (17) Jason Schmidt (17) Jim Geelan (16) Jeff Gudex (16) Wayne Hoffmann (15) Paul Mueller (15) Steve Rockow (15) Dawn Carty (14) Joan Nett (14) Chris Nitschke (14) Chrystal St. Mary (14) Gwyn Conrad-Kessler (13) Slate Fuller (13) Michael Marion (12) Sherry Bartel (11) Chad Wegner (11) David Flynn (10)
30-39 YEARS John Marquardt (33) Jackie Ninneman (32) Jeff Baehler (31) Lori Roeseler (31) Dan St. Mary (31)
20-29 YEARS Dave Brzezinski (29) Keith Broadway (28) Gary Burgess (28) Mike St. Mary (28) Pam VanKirk (27) Mark Gedamke (26) Dan Lindloff (26) Mike Ptaschinski (25) Tim Reddersen (25) Jonathan Wisner (25) Rick Gilgenbach (23) Dave Burgess (22) Bob St. Mary (22) Jeff A. Wilson (22) June Wilson (22) Sandy Mertens (21) Lisa Ruehl (20) Anna Wiese (20)
1 YEAR IN 2016 Debborah Gunder Jeffrey Schlosser Chad Schneider Colin Weber Rachelle Blau Peter Rose Daniel Bruni James Allen Steven Meyer
6-9 YEARS
employ over 1,000 people, members of the (now fifth-generation) Ahern family still hold key management positions. John Ahern serves as chairman, and he works alongside sons Tripp (president and CEO) and Tony (executive vice president of fabrication and operations). Every member of the Ahern team, regardless of location or position, adheres
After being annexed into the village of Rosendale, JG plans to expand the facility were put in motion. Slated to be completed in early spring of 2016, the 3,000-squarefeet expansion will give much needed space to assembly, shipping and receiving, and finishing, and create space for multiperson restrooms and a large employee lunchroom, and will house a new CNC machine. A blacktopped parking area and remodeled entry way will also be part of the project. Phase two and three, which will expand office and showroom, are slated for 2017. To stay in sync with the company’s forward momentum, a new website and brand was launched in January 2015. In July, four JG staff members attended the AWFS (Association of Woodworking & Furnishing Suppliers) show in Las Vegas and brought back an abundance of additional marketing, design and woodworking ideas. JG staff will be attending this year’s AWFS show in Atlanta, Georgia. JG Custom Cabinetry and Design is located at W10271 Rose Eld Road in Rosendale. For more information, visit jgcustomcabinetry.com or facebook.com/jgccd.
to the company’s core purpose: To create and maintain systems that save lives, improve the environment, and ensure personal comfort and well-being. Ahern is located at 855 Morris St., in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-921-9020 or visit jfahern.com.
Made well. Made custom. Made locally.
Aaron Buchholz (9) Rhonda Fryman (9) Ann Macha (9) Michael Mutz (9) Darrell Parkinson, Jr. (9) Amber Seibel (9) Cody Smet (9) Wayne Wilke (9) Scott Jaschob (8) Thomas Lapine(8) Bridgett Miller (8) Christopher Neumann (8) Justin Paulson (8) Leng Vang (8) Tricia Egnoski (7) Joseph Gurno (7) David Urmanski (7) Travis Halle (6) Lance Mertzig (6) Joshua Strean (6) Mike Soelke (6) Allen Wetzel (6)
Custom Cabinetry
2-5 YEARS
Erich Polnow (5) Megan Ruehl (5) Brad Schaefer (5) Steven Schmitz (5) Jacob Gubin (4) Jesse Bebow (3) Kristen Butzen (3) Glenn Cattanach (3) Craig Gossman (3) William Johnson (3) Steven Kraus (3) Kyle Laude (3) Rene Martinez (3) Cody Meyer (3) Scott Monfils (3) David Radtke (3) Melvin Schultz (3) Craig Kartos (2) Dawn Johnson (2) Jeffrey Biech (2) William Schneider (2) Allison Gamble (2)
“SUCCESS THROUGH PEOPLE, CUSTOMERS, AND OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE”
WI-5001973272
Like many businesses in Rosendale, JG Custom Cabinetry & Design had a lot to think about with the construction and closure of State 26. Taking place from April through September 2015, the construction project meant JG, located State 26 and Rose Eld Road, would lose its drive-by traffic of more than 10,000 cars a day. Through detailed directions, wellmarked detour signs and word of mouth, customers made their way around the construction to JG and steady growth and opportunity continued. Despite the road closure, JG was able to complete close to 235 jobs in 2015, up from 175 in 2014. Those jobs included custom cabinetry, countertops, sinks, hardware and organizational systems for remodeled and new construction homes. The flux in jobs required a ramped up staff. JG was able to hire 11 additional employees in 2015, bringing the total to 31. The increase in staff prompted the formation of a second shift in early November. Among the new staff was an accountant, production manager, outside sales representative, installer, and woodworking and finishing craftsmen.
WI-5001966579
Section A • Business, Industry & Education Progress Charter Communications provides jobs, donations to community A18
February 17, 2016
Charter Communications
Charter Communications supported the Big Brothers Big Sisters Splash and Dash 5K in 2015. More than 60 employees, friends and families joined forces to support the local event.
holiday food drives benefiting the Fondy Food Pantry and Solutions Center; and a special fundraising campaign to support one child’s dream of visiting Disneyland via the Make-a-Wish Foundation. And in April 2015, more than 60 Charter employees volunteered to make critical home repairs for two Sheboygan-area homeowners with the launch of the company’s new philanthropic initiative, Charter our Community.
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS
Serving Fond du Lac and the surrounding area since 1963
Across the board, Charter had a great year in 2015. Company performance was strong, and employees remain committed to delivering superior products and high-quality customer care. Charter Communications is located at 165 Knight’s Way, No. 100, in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 888-4382427 or visit charter.com.
Grande Cheese | New Home Office
NO JOB TOO SMALL 616 S. Military Rd. Fond du Lac, WI
920-921-6550
WI-5001964241
As a strong and growing local employer, Charter Communications is committed to supporting the communities in which it operates. In 2015, Charter continued efforts to bring jobs to Wisconsin, growing its statewide workforce to more than 2,000. Charter’s role as a leading employer and job creator isn’t new. In fact, more than 30 Wisconsin employees celebrated milestone anniversaries this year that marked their tenure of 20, 25, 30 or 35 years. Charter’s presence in Fond du Lac expanded as positions were added to the local dispatch and warehousing teams, and 25 new jobs were created at the Call Center. Charter’s growing Call Center operations reflect the company’s commitment to bring customer service jobs back to the U.S. and expand this segment of its workforce to improve the customer experience. In fact, the Fond du Lac Call Center is one of the highest performing centers in Charter’s service area, and more than 75 Fond du Lac employees received special honors in 2015 for their exceptional performance. The culture at Charter is a point of pride for the organization, and the company was voted “Best Place to Work” in 2015 by readers of the Fond du Lac Reporter. Charter’s Fond du Lac employees championed a year-round commitment to giving, raising more than $10,000 for local charities and residents in 2015. Ten fundraising activities were conducted, including a supplies drive for the Fond du Lac Humane Society,
Fax: 920-921-8553 www.wjleasaelectric.com
making PROGRESS 2015 was a year of growth for C.D. Smith. With over 40 major projects underway, 2016 is poised to be another great year. Our team of over 450 employees is the largest it has ever been, and we are continuously looking for hard-working and motivated individuals to join us. It is an honor to help continue to build Fond du Lac and the surrounding areas, and we look forward to what this year has in store for our community.
St. Mary’s Springs Academy
VALUE BEYOND BUILDING
920.924.2900 | www.cdsmith.com
WI-5001972460
TM
Progress Cole Oil Company rebuilds BP Hi-Way Hop after 2014 fire
Section A • Business, Industry & Education
nience stores designs are moving to bigger stores and the restaurant side a bit smaller. Many people use the drive-thru option more than in the past. An official grand opening celebration was held at the Hi-Way Hop on Sept. 26. The entire Cole family was there to help along with the dedicated employees. Taco Bell franchise owners Jeff and Ann Firari also were there for the grand opening. With a contemporary industrial look inside, the store has many new items to offer. Recently a propane filling station has been added at this location as well. Customers will be able to have tanks as well as propane vehicles filled at the Hi-Way Hop. Cole Oil also acquired the bulk fuel and lubricant division of O’Connor Oil last December and has been working to improve
Cole Oil Company
Based in Lomira and serving many surrounding areas, Cole Oil started in 1921 and has expanded over the years bringing on many changes, acquisitions and improvements. The rebuild of the BP Hi-Way Hop and Taco Bell complex was focused on in 2015. The devastating fire occurred on Nov. 14, 2014, and the location was rebuilt and opened on June 18. This was an accomplishment since most of the building process took place during the winter months. The construction began in early February and kept on at a steady pace, with the exception of a few cold weeks of weather that kept workers from the job site. The C-store side of the building was made larger than before as trends in conve-
February 17, 2016
that location on Forest Avenue in Fond du Lac. The bulk tanks, buildings and office, which serves as a satellite office, all went through a major “face lift.” This location focuses on specialty lubricants and expands Cole’s refined fuel delivery area. Cole Oil Company operates three CStores and car washes branded BP in Lomira
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and Brownsville. Cole Oil Company’s main office is at 310 Pleasant Hill Ave., in Lomira, and they also have offices in Fond du Lac and Ripon, with bulk plants located in Lomira, Ripon, Mayville and Fond du Lac. For information, visit coleoilandpropane.com and find them on Facebook.
Action Printing upgrades
Action Printing staff.
prepress department, introduces fulfillment options Action Printing
Action Printing, a commercial printer, has served the print industry for 42 years. Action Printing specializes in the printing of books, publications, manuals, directories, catalogs and more. By introducing a strengthened concept of fulfillment, new variable data capabilities, upgraded equipment and internal expansion, Action Printing is redefining print. Under the continued management of Darwin Bethke, Action Printing is expanding internally as they’ve just recently increased the size of their sales staff, strengthened customer service and bolstered their marketing activities.
Action Printing continuously searches for innovative methods to redefine print. Within the past year, Action has upgraded and updated the necessary software and machinery that is allowing them to do just that. Action’s newly upgraded prepress department is providing print at an increased efficiency while ensuring higher quality work. The software upgrade now allows Action Printing to print PDF files to various types of printers, ensuring perfect reproduction and accuracy. In addition, in 2015, Action added a brand-new Xerox Digital Press that accommodates the market shift for short-run work
and quick turnarounds with its new automation and variable data features. The automation features include higher quality digital print with Ultra HD Resolution, upgraded performance and more results. Action can now print elements such as text, graphics and images that be changed from one printed piece to the next, without stopping or slowing down the printing process. Action Printing is also introducing a strengthened concept of fulfillment. Fulfill-
ment acts as a warehousing department allowing any customer to store any number of product at Action Printing’s 150,000-squarefoot facility. Clients are then presented with complete inventory reporting and choice to ship any amount or combination of products, to any location. Action Printing is located at N6637 Rolling Meadows Drive, in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 800-472-0337 or visit actionprinting.com.
A 4th Generation Family-Owned Business... ... Home, Farm, Construction & Commercial delivery of propane, fuel oil, diesel fuel, gasoline & lubricants • Budget plans • Prompt delivery • Keep full program
Cole Oil Offices:
310 Pleasant Hill Ave • Lomira • (920) 269-4542 W208 Cty Rd. K • Ripon • (920) 748-5005 265 Forest Ave • FDL • (920) 922-0590
BP Hi-Way Hop
Cole’s Brownsville BP
Cole’s Lomira BP
Hi-Way Hop Car Wash
HWY 41/67 Lomira Convenience Store • Daily Lunch Specials & So Much More!
868 W. Main St. Convenience Store • Daily Lunch Specials
801 Milwaukee St. Convenience Store • Daily Lunch Specials
HWY 41/67 Lomira 2 Automatic & 2 Self-Serve Bays
Cole Oil & Propane
Cole Oil & Propane •
Cole Oil & Propane
Mayville Bulk Plant
Office: 310 Pleasant Hill Ave
Lomira
Office: 265 Forest Ave.
Fond du Lac
Office: W 208 City Rd. K,
Ripon
990 Main St. Ask at our office about “pay at the pump” availability with our Cole Oil Co. credit card.
Cole Oil & Propane
(920) 269-4542 • (800) 231-0006 • www.coleoilandpropane.com WI-5001969552
“Family owned and operated since 1921”
Cole’s Brownsville Car/Pet Wash
868 W. Main St. 1 automatic car/truck wash bay, 1 self-serve pet wash bay
Cole Oil & Propane Lomira Bulk Plant
A20
Progress
February 17, 2016
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Section A • Business, Industry & Education
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Our greatest business tool we give an entrepreneur is to listen.
Unlike a “how-to-book” or “do-it-yourself ” website, the IGNITE! Business Success network has real, local people from over 17 different organizations who can help entrepreneurs start or grow a business in Fond du Lac County. Through individual attention, structure, connections and support, ideas can flourish. Visit IGNITEFondDuLacCounty.com and explore our partner organizations, services, classes, peer networks, and online resources. Get Started Today! WI-5001961800
2016
Progress Section B: Development & Business
February 17, 2016 A Supplement to Action Advertiser
Adashun Jones celebrates 30 years Adashun Jones
Adashun Jones is proud to announce that they’re celebrating their 30th anniversary this year. As a company, this means 30 years of success, dedication and experience during which time they have been proudly leading the market, providing a full range of professional real estate services to our valued clients. In addition, Adashun Jones also offers a complete Design Build custom home building experience with its new home and light commercial construction branch, Signature Homes. Adashun Jones was founded in 1986 by owner/operators Frank Adashun and Jeff Jones, who had both been top produc-
ing real estate agents with other firms. Adashun and Jones both shared the same vision, to provide clients with the highest level of customer service and the absolute best buying and selling experience. Soon after opening their flagship operation in Fond du Lac, Adashun Jones opened a second location in Oshkosh. With a positive outlook for the future and two locations filled with experienced professional agents and support staff, Adashun Jones opened two new locations in 2015 to better serve the expanding market in both Fond du Lac and Oshkosh. Their third location is located in the beautiful and historic downtown Green Lake, 531 Mill St., and their fourth location is located off College Avenue on the east side
Frank Adashun
Jeff Jones
of Appleton, 520 Van Roy Road, Appleton. Development and success With an eye for opportunity and great leadership, Adashun Jones brings the founding principles that have led them to great success in the Fond du Lac community to this great endeavor, as they enter into two new markets in which they will incorporate their signature blend of sucADASHUN JONES continued on page B2
THELMA
Fond du Lac Public Library
The Fond du Lac Public Library posted a year of great growth in number of visitors, readers and in innovation. Here are just a few highlights from 2015: The new Chapter 52 Bookstore at 52 Sheboygan St., next to the main downtown library, celebrated a grand opening on Sept. 12 with expanded hours and new merchandise. The bookstore, staffed primarily by volunteers, supports programming at the library by selling used books, movies, music, magazines and more at deeply discounted prices. The Cindy Casetta Barden Teachers’ Resource Center inside the Children’s Room is open to all with a growing
Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
With two years in operation, your renovated and expanded community arts center is finding its stride. Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts (THELMA) continues to offer great concerts, art exhibits and films, and stunning space for weddings, and corporate and social gatherings. The Smithereens, a popular 1980s rock band, played a free concert in the street. Performers Nikki Hill, who is now touring around the world, and the popular Milwaukee-based band GGOOLLDD Community members watch a street-wide concert at Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts.
Big Guy Hats
LIBRARY continued on page B9
hits the big screen, makes hat for Ringo Starr, celebrates 20 years
Realtors at Roberts Homes and Real Estate pose for a group photo.
Big Guy Hats
Novelty hat creations keep on moving forward for Fond du Lac’s Jeff Kahlow, of Big Guy Hats. Kahlow’s 2015 included new hat designs and some time in front of video cameras. “We all know what the Cheesehead hats looks like, so I decided to completely modify that look and, turn them into ‘state cheeseheads,’”said Kahlow. “(But) Packer fans are everywhere in the world, so I decided to create (specialized) hats, in the shape of the state, or country, that they live in…that's a lot of cheese!”
INSIDE: Real Estate Adashun Jones First Weber Realtors Fond du Lac Home Builders Association ReMax Heritage Roberts Homes and Real Estate Winfield Homes
Fond du Lac Public Library opens bookstore, smashes reading records
expands arts education, programming
THELMA continued on page B4
The Fond du Lac Public Library moved its used-book store to the former long-vacant pharmacy building next door at 52 Sheboygan St. and celebrated Chapter 52 Bookstore’s grand opening on Sept. 12 of 2015. The bookstore is staffed primarily by a corps of volunteers; some gathered on the front porch, from left: Jane Moody, Phyllis Saidat, Randi Hoffmann, Ruth Holstein, library staff member Nancy Bilitz, Judy Cusick, Bev Middleton, Sara Respalje and Sue Derge.
Jeff Kahlow, left, poses with his son Andrew, both sporting “championship ring” hats at Lambeau Field.
Another of Kahlow’s hat styles that were very successful in 2015 were his “championship ring” hats, because they can be customized to focus on every sporting team in the world. “One of my most labor-intense hats, but so much fun, it’s hard not to be noticed with that much ‘bling.’”
Downtown BBS Agency Gallery & Frame Shop Cujak' Wine & Coffee Bar Farmers Market Fond du Lac Main Street Fond du Lac Public Library Macy Place Reminiscence by Rita LLC The Goldsmith THELMA
RETAIL Big Guy Hats Bob and Bonnies City of Waupun Forest Mall Galaxy Lighting Just Fare Market Ray's TV & Appliance Restore/Habitat for Humanity
Kahlow also interacted with two different directors in 2015. The first was for “Cheeseheads: The Documentary,” a film that will be released in 2016. Film producer John Mitchell spent the past five years creating this film about the state of Wisconsin and commissioned dozens of
MUNICIPAL County Highway Department Fond du Lac County Housing Authority Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Department Fond du Lac Police Department Housing Authority of the City of Fond du Lac North Fond du Lac Police Department
Big Guy Hats continued on page B4
HEALTH CARE Aurora Health Center Bauer Chiropractic Bauer Physical Therapy Dynamic Chiropractic & Wellness Center
Roberts Homes and Real Estate
receives awards, builds 14 homes Roberts Homes and Real Estate
Roberts Homes and Real Estate is proud to call Fond du Lac home since 1989. In these 27 years, they have helped community members buy, sell and build homes, while setting the bar for real estate service. Their unique combination of professional, experienced agents with leading technology has ensured success and clients’ happiness. ROBERTS HOMES continued on page B2
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February 17, 2016
ADASHUN JONES continued from page B1
cessful marketing, the latest technology and hardworking, experienced agents. Locally owned and operated, Adashun Jones is home to more than 70 agents and staff to make your home buying/selling and new construction dream a reality. “It’s a really exciting time,” Adashun Jones Director of Sales Kevin Jones said during an interview with Gannett Wisconsin Media. “A lot has changed over 30 years, but the thing that remains the same is that we’ve surrounded ourselves with some really good people, we have a lot of talent, so that’s where we give the credit.” Jones adds that their website, adashunjones.com, averages 3 million page views a year and the brokerage has grown by about 100 new listings year over year. “(It) works out to an 11 to 13 percent bump yearly in the company’s home sales,” said Jones. Adashun Jones is located at 1028 S. Main St., in Fond du Lac, and can be reached at 920-923-4433. For more information, visit adashunjones.com. ROBERTS HOMES continued from page B1
Roberts Homes and Real Estate consists of 22 Realtors and two new construction supervisors. Together in 2015, the team earned a variety of awards including Fond du Lac Reader’s Choice Best Home Builder, Best Real Estate Agent, and Runner-Up in Best Real Estate Company. In total, Roberts has received 28 awards through the Reader’s Choice. 2015 proved to be another success as the market showed record high numbers and low interest rates. Median sales prices of homes increased, and more community members were looking to move or build. Roberts also saw an increase in demand for quality new construction homes and built 14 homes in 2015 alone. In 2015, Roberts improved its showing appointment software to provide a more efficient experience to our clients. They also expanded their social media presence, including “Meet our Agents” segments on Facebook, which highlights Roberts realtors and helps our clients connect beyond real estate. In addition, continued participation in the fall and spring Parade of Homes was well-received. One of Roberts’ new construction homes in the Fall Parade of Homes was the most visited, attracting roughly 962 people. Roberts also “adopted a family” for Christmas, giving back even more to the community. Since 1989, Roberts Homes and Real Estate has built more than 1,100 homes in Fond du Lac and beyond while listing and selling hundreds of homes, producing tens of millions of dollars in sales over the years. Roberts Homes and Real Estate is located at 1315 S. Main St., in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-923-4522, visit robertshomesandrealestate.com or find them on Facebook.
Progress
Winfield Homes
adds designer, construction superintendent, custom adviser, sales team member Winfield Homes
Seventeen years ago, Scott Swick used his middle name to name what has become Fond du Lac’s leading custom homebuilder, Winfield Homes. Since that time Swick, along with his partner Jim Baudry, have built hundreds of homes in the 11 surrounding counties to the delight of their customers. 2015 was a year of significant growth for the company. They continued to expand by designing and building a number of homes in Fond du Lac, Taycheedah, Slinger, Princeton, Brandon, Waupun, Beaver Dam, West Bend and Cedarburg. All Winfield Homes are luxury homes at a great value, built on the owner’s lots whether in subdivisions, large acreage or tight lake lots. And each home built is designed as a “high performance home,” which
means it has significantly lower energy costs, has healthier indoor air quality and is better for the environment. The average Winfield Home is 40 percent more efficient to heat and cool than homes built to local building codes. Each one is certified by third-party inspectors to the Focus on Energy, Green Built Homes and RESNET programs. Four incredible team members were added to the company in the last year: Designer Jenelle Bruno helps each family to make all their design decisions for their new homes, Tom Holzman joined Winfield as a construction superintendent, Mark Seefeldt meets with clients to create custom home plans, and Sally Swick joined the sales team. Baudry and Scott Swick also own
Winfield Development, which develops residential subdivisions around the area. Some of their holdings are found in subdivisions in the towns of Fond du Lac, Lamartine, Taycheedah and Empire, as well as in the West Bend and Jackson areas. Some of the latest innovations in custom homes have been pioneered by Winfield Homes in the Fond du Lac area. They were first in building Energy Star and Green Built homes, introduced the now-hugely popular “Craftsman” home design, rolled out floor plan innovations such as open concept living, pocket offices, hidden walk-in pantries, and is the only builder to offer a limited 10-year warranty. Winfield Homes is located at 845 S. Main St., in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-922-9447 or email sswick@winfield-homes.com.
RE/MAX Heritage sees 21 percent increase,
averages 36 transactions per agent RE/MAX Heritage
Founded in 2009, RE/MAX Heritage has entered its eighth year in business. RE/MAX Heritage was founded by Broker/Owner Rod Drendel in his efforts to add integrity, honesty and high performance to the industry. After much contemplation and intense research, Drendel found the RE/MAX brand as the perfect match to mirror his philosophy of building relationships and “soaring above the competition.” RE/MAX is a blend of local ownership with the power of the No. 1 brand in the real estate industry. RE/MAX, LLC now has 103,491 associates in more than 6,886 offices in nearly 100 countries. Seven years of growth have resulted in a 300 percent increase in yearly completed transactions.
While the real estate industry rebuilds, RE/MAX Heritage experienced 21 percent increase in the number of homes sold by the office. This is while the local area experienced less than 10 percent increase, according to statistics by R E Stats, 2015 Residential Sales. RE/MAX Heritage believes this success is due to the loyalty of our clients and customers and dedication of our agents and staff. RE/MAX Heritage agents averaged over 36 transaction sides per agent, surpassing all other local agencies. For the seventh year, RE/MAX Heritage led the local market for the least amount of days on the market from list to sell; 20 days faster than the closest competitor. RE/MAX Heritage is proud of its tech-savvy marketing tools, including
First Weber Realtors expand
staff, push paperless options in 2015
First Weber Realtors Fond du lac
In the fall of 2006, when Karen Jo Dobyns and Dennis Bates joined founder Scott Swick in opening the Fond du Lac office for First Weber of Northeast Wisconsin, they were waiting for the office to be remodeled before they could move in. “We set up all our files and contracts in
the garage at my home, and had to be careful the wind didn’t toss them around when we opened the door,” recalled Dobyns. Fast forward to today and, rather than paper contracts, First Weber used the latest technology to peerlessly serve more than 2,000 families in the last year. The Northeast group has eight offices, 147
More People Trust First Weber in Northeast Wisconsin More Trusted Agents More Homes More Homes Sold
FirstWeber.com (920) 322-8877
WI-5001972485
Section B • Development & Business
WI-5001972482
24/7 service thru a mobile-friendly website, detailed virtual tours and inhouse photographer. If technology isn’t your fancy, contact RE/MAX Heritage during normal business hours MondayFriday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to speak with team members. Whether looking to purchase or sell, RE/MAX Heritage has the knowledge, experience and proven track record to help! The RE/MAX Heritage staff consists of seven full-time agents and five staff members. RE/MAX Heritage is located at 249 N. Country Lane, Suite 201 in the Johnson Crossing Plaza, west of Festival Foods. For more information, call 920923-7777, email info@wesellfonddulac. com or visit wesellfonddulac.com. agents, and had sales over $270 million. “We’ve grown from three to 26 real estate professionals who bring a fresh new approach to real estate. We really act like a family. We genuinely care for the people we serve and do not rest until we have helped them get what they want, whether it is their home sold or a new one bought,” said Bates. In the last year, these realtors were armed with mobile-based tools to help a seller completely understand the market to price their home accurately, or help FIRST WEBER continued on page B3
Progress
Section B • Development & Business
Home Builders Association celebrates 50 years Home Builders Association of Fond du Lac & Dodge Counties
The Home Builders Association of Fond du Lac & Dodge Counties was chartered in April 1966 and is celebrating 50 years in business this year. The association has served as the community resource in the home and construction industry since it originated. In 1968, the very first Parade of Homes was held, and today it still remains a prestigious honor to have one’s home showcased on the tour. The Parade of Homes offers consumers a chance to walk through a brand-new home, see the very latest trends and designs, along with the opportunity to talk directly with the builders. The event is held generally twice per year, as the Association hosts a Summer Parade of Homes tour in early June and a Fall Parade of Homes tour in October. In 1969, the first Home & Garden Show was held, allowing the community to come to one place to find professionals in every aspect of the construction and remodeling industry, as well as see the very latest home trends. The Super Home Extravaganza still serves the same purpose as well as providing fun FIRST WEBER continued from page B2
buyers find the latest listing before it even hits Zillow. “Using their iPad or smart phone, a First Weber agent uses real-time information to keep their clients ahead of the pack. Entire contracts, be it offers or listings or amendments can be done live on their devices, signed with the tip of their fingers, all paperless,” said Swick. “We don’t have to kill a tree to do real estate anymore!” The two Fond du Lac County offices have added nine new realtors in the last year. Four came over from other compa-
for the entire family. Despite the Internet and various websites such as Pinterest and Houzz that make creating your new home construction or remodeling portfolio much easier, 50 years has not changed the value in shaking hands with a building professional you may consider hiring for your next improvement project. During its five decades in existence, the members of the Home Builders Association of Fond du Lac & Dodge Counties have contributed to a variety of community service projects. The association is made up of a network of building and trades professionals who are licensed, certified and insured. Save the date: Summer Parade of Homes Tour will take place on the weekends of June 3 and 10 in the Fond du Lac area. Save the date: Super Home Extravaganza is planned for March 18 to 20 at the Fond du Lac County Fairgrounds. For more information about the Home Builders Association of Fond du Lac & Dodge Counties, call 920-9229067 or visit homebuildersfdldodge.com.
nies and the others came with impressive sales backgrounds. Swick credits the one-to-one coaching and the on-demand cloud-based training as reasons for the explosive growth. First Weber of Fond du Lac is one of 55 offices of First Weber, making it Wisconsin’s largest real estate firm, and it is affiliated with Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway. First Weber Realtors is located at 845 S. Main St., Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-322-8877 or email sswick@firstweber.com.
February 17, 2016
B3
ReStore expands again, Habitat for Humanity plans 27th home Habitat for Humanity
It has been an exciting year for Habitat for Humanity of Fond du Lac County. In August, Habitat celebrated one year in its upgraded retail space at 65 W. Scott St., where it has seen a major increase in the number of donations. Shoppers and families have been Pictured, front row, from left, are David Hynek, Jessica Lehman, Chris Serres, Julie Woznick, Kevin Laspositively affected tress and Marcy Blodgett. Back row, from left are Ben Thome, Steve Leaman, Megan Stahmann, Joel by its increased and Boelhower and Gary Brown. easy-to-shop floor space. neous items to other local non-profits. Proceeds from the ReStore are enIn 2015, Habitat built its 26th home, tirely reinvested into the community by building homes for those in need, thus this one for the Morris family on South making a positive impact on the econoMain Street. The Morris family has my. Additionally, Habitat has partnered settled into their new home and celwith 12 local businesses to clean out ebrated their first Christmas there. In unused materials that are then sold or 2016, Habitat looks forward to building donated to local families. its 27th home on West Division Street In November, the ReStore purchased for the Yang family, and it hopes to an additional 10,000 square feet of retail raise enough money to build a second space in an adjacent portion of the home in Ripon. building. In 2016, we look forward to continuThe ReStore accepts donations of ing to support Fond du Lac and the surnew, gently used and salvaged building rounding communities. Habitat offers a materials in addition to home improvewide range of volunteer opportunities, ment goods including furniture, home team-bonding activities, pickup and accessories and appliances. In turn, delivery of items, and convenient retail these are sold at discounted prices hours. For more information call 920with all profits directly supporting the 921-2893. construction of Habitat for Humanity Habitat for Humanity and ReStore homes. In the past year, through its are located at 65 W. Scott St. For more Community Partnerships Program, Habinformation, call 920-921-2893 or visit itat was able to donate $22,100 worth of habitatffdl.org. furniture, clothing and other miscella-
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B4
Progress
February 17, 2016
THELMA continued from page B1
played the Great Hall stage. Returning performers such The Jimmys and Isthmus Brass continue to sell out shows at THELMA. Artists Shane Walsh, of Milwaukee, and Nick Lamia, of New York, have exhibited in THELMA’s bright Contemporary Wing. And once again, the popular Membership Exhibition was on display. Viewing the exhibits continues to be free and open to the public. New last summer was THELMA’s first Arts Day Camp for kids – On Stage @ THELMA. This musical, theatrical adventure was possible thanks to a generous donation that permitted THELMA to kickoff its arts education programming. In five days, students in fourth through eighth grade learned the songs and built the sets for “Robin Hood.” On Stage @ THELMA returns next summer with a two-week camp. This time, the students will learn, build sets and perform “Alice in Wonderland.” Other student programming at THELMA includes the Fond du Lac Children’s Chorale, a resident ensemble, and African drumming class with master drummer, Ghana native and Fond du Lac resident, Edi Gbordzi. This year, an African drumming class for adults will be added. THELMA partners with the Fond du Lac Boys & Girls Club to offer scholarships so students who may not otherwise be able to can participate. The best way to find out about THELMA programming is to become a Friend of THELMA. Friends of THELMA receive discounts on tickets and classes, and find out first who is coming to perform. Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts is located at 51 Sheboygan St., in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-921-5410 or visit thelmaarts.org. Big Guy Hats continued from page B1
Wisconsin-shaped cheesehead hats from Kahlow in honor of the movie release tour, and Big Guy Hats was also featured in the documentary itself. Kahlow was also on the set of “The Sixty Yard Line,” an independent feature film taking place in Green Bay, headed up by Los Angeles producer Ryan Churchill. “(He) asked me if I would be willing to dress up as ‘Frozen Tundra Man’ for a casting roll in his film,” said Kahlow. “John Kuhn, Mark Tauscher and Ahman Green are also featured in this movie, and the movie release is planned for next year.” One of Kahlow’s biggest 2015 highlights, however, was a three-foot long personalized “yellow submarine” hat which he made for Ringo Starr, of the Beatles. After months of planning with Starr’s manager, Kahlow was able to deliver the hat. Finally, 2015 marked the 20th year of Big Guys Hats, with 20,000 hand-carved hats to date. Big Guy Hats is based out of Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-9230004 or visit bigguyhats.com.
First Weber Realtors of Northeast Wisconsin opens offices in Waupun, Neenah
First Weber Realtors of Northeast Wisconsin
Since starting First Weber Realtors of Northeast Wisconsin eight years ago, the company has exploded in growth. “When we opened the first office in the area, we were ranked 11 out of 11 real estate firms. Today, we are the largest Fond du Lac area real estate firm and ended last year with having served over 2,000 families to buy or sell their home,” said Partner Scott Swick. The company is on a mission to provide a fresh new approach to real estate. First Weber is known for both their “human side” and their high-tech expertise. Their realtors bring a caring and well-educated background to become that trusted adviser to their clients in all things real estate. Hand-holding every step of the way, they guide each person through the maze of buying and selling. Critical to that is the amount of training that goes into every First Weber agent. The company combines one-to-one coaching with on-demand cloud-based training videos to make sure they provide the highest level of service and expertise for the marketplace. They are then armed with mobilebased tools so they can help a seller completely understand the market to price their home accurately, or help buyers find the latest listing before it even hits Zillow. “Using their iPad or smart phone, a First Weber agent uses real-time information to keep their clients ahead of the pack. Entire contracts, be it offers or listings, or amendments or whatever can be done live on their devices, signed with the tip of their fingers, all paperless,” said Swick. “We don’t have to kill a tree to do real estate anymore.” In the year 2015, First Weber opened two additional offices in the area: One in Waupun and the other in Neenah. This brings the total Northeast region to eight, joining Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, Appleton, Berlin, Wautoma and Waupaca. Their 147 agents closed out the year with more than $270 million in sales. First Weber, Inc. has more than 55 offices, 1,300 agents, and approximately $3 billion in sales, making it the No. 1 firm in Wisconsin. First Weber of Northeast Wisconsin is located at 845 S. Main St., in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-322-8877 or email sswick@firstweber.com.
Section B • Development & Business
BBS Agency weathers ‘Mobilegeddon,’ provides website support to customers
BBS Agency
With revenue growth of 250 percent over the past three years, what started as Bootstrap Business Solutions and is now The BBS Agency has proven itself to be the answer to many companies’ website woes. Led by Vince and Kelly Wondra, cofounders of the company, the team at BBS creates easy-to-update search engine and mobile friendly websites that get found online, generate leads and help their clients grow their businesses. Their online eCommerce solutions have driven over $10 million in online sales in 2015 for clients all over the United States including Heartland Precious Metals, Energy Fabrication, The Jor-Mac Company and Ready Made Resources. BBS is the only local dedicated WordPress and WooCommerce development agency. In addition, they provide consulting, design, development, SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and website hosting services. In April of 2015, Google released a
search engine update, dubbed “Mobilegeddon” that required companies to have a mobile friendly site. Those failing to comply would see their companies search engine rankings plummet. BBS ran an informal survey of more than 220 local businesses in late September, and 73 percent of those websites still failed. The team has been very busy helping companies nationwide comply with Google's mobile friendly standards. Along with leading their team of six freelancers, which they hope to grow in 2016, the Wondras are active community members. Vince is a member of Young Professionals of Fond du Lac and chair of the MPTC Web Developer Advisory Board. Kelly is an active member of the parent organizations at their daughters’ schools and a Daisy and Junior Girl Scout Leader. Both are devoted, supportive parents to their two daughters. The BBS Agency is located at 17 Forest Ave., suite 17, in Fond du Lac, and can be reached at 920-786-8438 or at thebbsagency.com.
Gallery & Frame Shop adds
computerized mat cutter, Balson attends equipment training
Gallery & Frame Shop
Gallery & Frame Shop welcomed the arrival of their new computerized mat cutter, the Valiani cutting machine, made in Italy. The arrival and installation included two days of training for owner Julie Balson and her husband, Brian. Julie Balson will be attending an additional training class in January at the West Coast Art & Framing Conference in Las Vegas. Growth in the framing services have expanded beyond the boundaries of Wisconsin, serving customers in Nevada, Florida, Colorado, California and other states. The shop employs two full-time and three part-time employees. The point-of-sale systems technology used in the gallery were all updated, along with the standalone credit card processing terminal capable of accepting the new chip credit card technology. Balson has been attending educational classes offered through the Professional Picture Framers Association and recently received her Certified Picture Framer accreditations. Certification included studies in conservation framing, design, color theory, glazing, canvas, textile, and gallery and shop management. Gallery & Frame Shop has been providing custom picture framing and art consultation for the Fond du Lac and surrounding area for more than 40 years. More than 25 local artists are represented in the gallery and each month the Gallery & Frame Shop hosts artists during the
A precision-cut mat featuring a Halloween theme is one of the things that Julie Balson can create with her new equipment, a Valiani cutting machine.
third Friday Tour the Town art walk. Throughout the year, local art is featured in the shops display windows, including youth art during March is Youth Art Month and a summer exhibit highlighting 4-H Fair art projects that have received the Gallery Award. In addition, each month an artist from the Fond du Lac Artist Association has a piece exhibited. Gallery & Frame Shop is located at 94 S. Main St., in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-921-1144, email info@galleryframe.net or find them on Facebook.
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Progress Farmers Market makes big move to Main Street
Section B • Development & Business
Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership
The Downtown Fond du Lac Farmers Market made a big move in the summer of 2015 as it shifted from a landlocked parking lot to a four-block area of South Main Street. Sponsored by Agnesian Healthcare, United HealthCare Community Plan and Action Reporter Media, the Saturday market operated weekly from 8 a.m. to noon May 9 through Oct. 31 and brought an economic boost to the downtown. Based on data collected via surveys throughout the summer, the economic impact of the Saturday markets is estimated to represent $813,760 in additional economic activity and 16 jobs in the downtown area. When expanded to the Fond du Lac Metropolitan area, the estimate is $6.6 million in additional economic activity and 60 jobs. During the summer season, the Saturday market attracted approximately 60,000
visitors to downtown. Twenty percent of these visitors traveled to Fond du Lac from more than 10 miles outside of the area, creating an opportunity for visitors from throughout the region to explore Fond du Lac’s historic Main Street. With the move also came the chance to increase the number of vendors at the market, as well as greater access to parking. The number of vendors at the market during the course of the season increased from 67 in 2014 to 85 in 2015, the majority of which were produce vendors, but also included new ready-to-eat food vendors, craft vendors, and baked or preserved food vendors. Visitor parking in the National Exchange Bank parking lot as well as the Third Street parking lot meant customers could step across a sidewalk and be directly in the middle of vendors of every variety. The expanded space also allowed for additional educational events such as pres-
Reminiscence by Rita LLC
opens, offers antiques and collectibles Reminiscence by Rita LLC
Reminiscence by Rita LLC opened June 19, 2015. The store contains an eclectic combination of antiques and collectibles. Owners Brad and Rita Manthey have been dealing in antiques and collectibles for 20 years. They have been in antique malls and sell at antique shows, vintage and flea markets. “We decided we wanted our own store. After much searching, we purchased the building on Main Street. We have faith that our downtown will continue to expand and grow,” said Rita Manthey. “With the farmers market downtown, word is spreading that we are here. We have had customers from the surrounding area, other states, Australia and even some repeat customers from Shanghai.” During the last year, the Mantheys
have sold in such places as Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to Rochester, Minnesota. They also sell at many different venues in Wisconsin from Green Bay to Milwaukee. “With our new store, customers can find us in between shows,” said Manthey. The store has a wide variety of items including vintage Christmas, Halloween, primitive tools, postcards, antique kitchen utensils, beer items, small furniture, vintage toys, jugs, crocks and more. “Stop in today for that item big box stores don’t carry,” said Manthey. “Buy a one-of-a-kind item. Buy a piece of nostalgia, history – something that reminds you of your childhood.” Reminiscence by Rita LLC is located at 123 S. Main St. in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-539-1848 or visit reminiscencebyrita.com.
February 17, 2016
ervation classes, display cooking, health screenings and Essential Rock Church’s Kids Market. Mike’s Music helped support live music every Saturday featuring local and regional musicians.
B5
The Farmers Market is a program of the Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership. For information about the markets or the downtown, visit downtownfdl.com or call 920-322-2006.
Macy Place opens, expands in 2015 Macy Place
Owner Barb McWithey opened Macy Place on Sept. 1, 2015, near downtown Fond du Lac. The space, which was empty for more than three years, went through a major renovation and now includes a small kitchen, an ADA-compliant bathroom, new laminate flooring and front windows. The work was done by Jeremy Block of Block Construction in Waupun. New energy efficient lighting was also installed. The store, consisting of 1,000 square feet, was created as a place for area artists to display their work, as well as a unique coffee and tea shop. Since opening, Macy Place has expanded and now includes bakery items and gifts for purchase. The space also is used for events. Currently there are tea tasting events and a casual Coffee Friday for conversation and meeting new friends. Macy Place
MOPS (Mothers of Pre-Schoolers), run by Molly Chamberlain, holds a meeting at Macy Place.
also participates in the Tour the Town Art Walk, featuring an artist each month. Macy Place is also available as a venue for clubs, organizations and groups to hold their meetings. The space can accommodate approximately 25 people in a comfortable, warm atmosphere. Future plans for Macy Place include offering poetry readings, open mic and live local musicians. Macy Place is located at 82 S. Macy St. in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-254-7887 or visit macyplace82.com.
Cujak’s Wine Market adds coffee, changes name to
Cujak’s Wine & Coffee Bar Cujak’s Wine & Coffee Bar
Cujak’s Wine Market has changed its name to Cujak’s Wine & Coffee Bar. Cujak’s opened as a wine store in August 2006 in downtown Fond du Lac. Over the years, owner Sara Cujak has added special items. In April 2008, Cujak’s was the first in the area to offer specialty olive oils and vinegars. Then, in July 2009, the wine bar was added. Cheese, specialty candies and high end spirits have also been added over the
years. This April, coffee was added and the name was changed. “I’ve wanted to offer coffee drinks for a number of years,” said Cujak. “I don’t know why. Maybe it’s because I love coffee. It was just a matter of figuring how and I didn’t want a mess. Espresso machines are very messy because the grounds are so fine. They get everywhere. Finally I found out about a machine that is self-contained and extremely easy to use.”
Because Cujak’s is a locally owned business, Sara went with a local roaster for her beans: Sleepy Sailor Coffee is based in Fond du Lac. Cujak’s also sells his beans for coffee makers. “Every month Matt swaps them out, so you know they are always fresh beans,” said Cujak. Cujak’s Wine & Coffee Bar located at 47 N. Main St. For more information, call 920-922-2499 or visit cujaks.com.
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B6
February 17, 2016
The Goldsmith receives
Progress
Section B • Development & Business
honorable mention as one of ‘America’s Coolest’ jewelry stores
The Goldsmith
The Goldsmith, in business for 42 years, has had a monumental year in 2015. The Goldsmith recognizes that its success comes from the loyalty of new customers and generational guests, who continue to trust the business. In business and personally, owners Ron and Terri Emanuel believe in the “pay it forward” thinking and try to give their time, talent and treasure to the nonprofit community that makes Fond du Lac a better place to be. The Goldsmith is excited and energized with all the new changes on Main Street. Constantly striving for the unusual and innovative, The Goldsmith offers creative jewelry design by goldsmith Ron Emanuel.
The store has expanded its classic and modern interpretations of engagement rings, crafted diamond, gold and sterling pieces, while always looking for a new, rising designer to support. The shop has whimsical, unusual gift ideas, and the past months we've found numerous artists who engage in metal, wood and ceramics to bring their inventive works, to the Fond du Lac area. The Goldsmith’s certified gemologist appraiser, Josh Emanuel, again went through his annual recertification, continuing to fine-tune his skills and abilities, to someday take over the family business. In 2015, the Goldsmith did its best to provide expert jewelry repair and service. This year, The Goldsmith had a tremendous honor given by INSTORE maga-
Bob and Bonnie’s For 36 years, Bob and Bonnie’s Donuts and Cakes provides wholesale doughnuts and custom cakes for weddings and other special occasions. Dan and Jessica Fishelson have been owners for two years, and state: “We have not changed any recipes. You cannot fix what is not broken. Our amazing staff, all of which were kept on board, is part of what makes our amazing products what they are. With our new younger business mentality and marketing efforts, this place has grown. We have learned a lot these past two years. And now we know what we need to do.” This year, the Fishelsons are bringing this bakery to a whole new level. “The doughnut and cake product is going strong and well received in Fond du Lac and throughout the Fox Valley,” said the Fishelsons. “People are in love with bakery items since the area doesn’t have a large fresh commercial bakery.” Bob and Bonnie’s has been running the business out of a commercial metal building in a remote area south of town. The bakery is moving to the interstate frontage road this year.
“A brand-new, state-of-the-art retail bakery is going to provide Fond du Lac (with) the freshest highest quality doughnut available made by the most special people. The design process of this new bakery has been such a challenge. Now, all we have to do is move the bakery. But, there is one more major thing: Our name,” said the Fishelsons. The Fishelsons are opening a whole new division of the company to provide bakery retail. The name? Fishy’s Bakery. Donuts and hot cake will be available from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Thursdays mornings at N6451 S. Pioneer Road. For wholesale customers, they offer a variety of doughnuts including cake doughnuts, raised doughnuts, chop suey (our bakery secret), long johns, bismarcks, and more, all made to order. New retail hours will be 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Cake designers are still available for special orders. For more information about Bob & Bonnie’s Donuts and Cakes, call 920-923-4321, visit bobandbonniesdonuts.com or find them on Facebook.
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Just Fare Market
Consumers in Fond du Lac can use their purchasing power to make a difference in the lives of others. Fair Trade is a direct and cooperative business approach that supports farmers and artisans in developing countries by paying a living wage and providing safe working conditions. Just Fare Market is a faith-based non-profit organization improving lives through global partnerships and fair trade. Rosa Torrez, from the Nicaraguan artisan group Chica Nica Doll Dress Project, gave a presentation at Just Fare Market in November. Visits from producers this year included Immanuel Bundella, Manager of Fair Trade grants from Holy Family Catholic Commufor Asha Handicrafts Association in India; nity, Fond du Lac Area Foundation and the Serena Sato, Marketing Director from Green Bay Packers Foundation to continue SERRV International; and Rosa Torrez, growing fair trade education and public from the Nicaraguan artisan group Chica relations efforts. Nica Doll Dress Project. In partnership with Fond du Lac Fair After attending the Fair Trade FederaTrade Town, the first Fair Trade Crawl was tion Conference this year, the co-managers held in October. The two-week event with of Just Fare Market added nine new vendoor prizes, encouraged people to visit dors, offering felted wool purses, whimsilocal Fair Trade businesses. Currently, 13 cal wood bowls, bamboo amplifiers for retailers and eight religious organizations iPads and iPhones, a new jewelry line, gifts sell or use at least two Fair Trade products, for children, warm socks, soft camis and making Fond du Lac a community in which hairware. people and organizations can bring about positive change for marginalized workers. In 2015, Just Fare partnered with nine non-profit organizations for Community Educational events on coffee and chocoShopping Nights, with 15 percent of sales late production, and human trafficking, going back to the groups. In addition to the have been made available to the public, regular off-site sale locations, Agnesian with more planned in 2016. HealthCare was added this past year, with Just Fare Market is located at N7645 N. another Agnesian sale planned for April Peebles Lane, Suite 2, in Fond du Lac. For 2016. more information, visit 920-322-3334, visit This past year, Just Fare was awarded justfare.org or find them on Facebook.
Impact the World
Shop for uniquely handcrafted and sustainably grown products from around the world. Fair Trade purchases benefit artisans and farmers in developing countries. REOPENS SATURDAY, JANUARY 9 WI-5001970340
The Goldsmith is located at 177 S. Main St., in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-921-3113 or visit thegoldsmithfdl.com.
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y’s Bakery h s i F
WI-5001970545
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Just Fare Market impacts the
to open new retail option Bob and Bonnie’s Donuts and Cakes
zine, with their honorable mention as one of “America's Coolest” jewelry stores. Judged on the basis of business practices, history, online presence, interior decor and curb appeal, we were thrilled to be selected from categories of our peers and
WI-5001970324
N7645 N. Peebles Lane Suite 2 Fond du Lac,WI 54937 920.322.3334 justfare.org
February 17, 2016 B7 Progress Ray’s TV & Appliance celebrates Galaxy Lighting looks forward to milestone year, adds Maytag in 2015 new product line, less road construction Section B • Development & Business
Ray’s TV & Appliance
Galaxy Lighting
Ray’s TV & Appliance, a family-owned and operated businesses in Fond du Lac, celebrated 40 years in business in 2015, as well as 22 years at their 33 S. Pioneer Road address: A 30,000-square foot building featuring retail and warehouse space. In 2015, the business added a full line of Maytag major appliances to their collection, which already included Whirlpool, General Electric, Frigidaire, Kitchen Aid, Samsung, Speed Queen, LG, Sharp and Amana, as well as kitchen appliance packages and suites. Ray’s TV and Appliance also services all major brand appliances, and due to high demand in 2015, they added another in-house certified trained appliance technician to assist customers Monday through Friday. Ray’s TV and Appliance offers same day/next day delivery and is a member of the Nationwide Buying Group, which includes more than 3,000 members and
What does 2016 bring for Galaxy Lighting? First and foremost, their road will not be under construction. From April through October 2015, portions of Division Street were under construction, and Galaxy Lighting would like to thank all of their customers who ventured through the construction to get to them. One of the lighting areas that seems to always be changing and evolving is the light bulb market. Gone are the days of just using a 60 or 100 watt standard light bulb. Then there is the confusion in understanding the difference between lumens and wattage. The staff at Galaxy Lighting are available to answer any of the questions customers might have about the new light bulb standards. New advancements in LED bulbs has not only added more lumens (light output) per watt but has also dropped prices from just a few years ago. Converting people to energysaving options has become a whole lot easier. Galaxy Lighting is always on the lookout for new product lines and have added a few
In 2015, Ray’s TV & Appliance added a full line of major Maytag appliances to their collection of appliance options.
leverages $15 billion in buying power. Ray’s TV and Appliance is located at 33 S. Pioneer Road, in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-924-6000, visit raystvappliances.com or find them on Facebook.
Fond du Lac Main Street named ‘One to Watch’ Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership
In 2015, the National Main Street Center selected downtown Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, as the “One to Watch” during the Great American Main Street Awards ceremony. According to the National Main Street Center, “This award recognizes exceptional communities working on very innovative projects poised on the cusp of major transformation. They exemplify the idea that any great Main Street is an ever-evolving work in progress — and offer inspiration for fledgling Main Streets and longstanding Main Street groups alike.” “[Fond du Lac is] a premier Wisconsin
Main Street community, rising to the top in a very challenging field,” said Darrin Wasniewski, Downtown Development Program Manager for the Wisconsin Main Street Program. The Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership was recognized for the wide range of incentive programs available for local businesses through strong partnerships with local banks and with the City of Fond du Lac. During its 16-year tenure, the programs have made tremendous strides. Of 214 properties in the district, 140 building improvement projects have been awarded grant assistance by the partnership. This investment has increased the
overall assessed value of downtown properties from $50.5 million in 1999 to $69.6 million in 2014, or a 38 percent increase. Since joining the Wisconsin Main Street program 11 years ago, more than $93 million in cumulative reinvestment has occurred in downtown, the highest total of any Wisconsin Main Street community. Fond du Lac’s downtown program has also supported the largest number of new housing units (104), and is in the top quarter of programs for net business and job growth (107 new businesses and 223 new jobs). Much of this success is due to the consistent joint planning efforts undertaken by the DFP and community partners. These
Visit Our Fond du Lac Showroom & Discover Why FloorQuest Was Voted
Galaxy Lightning is located at 165 W. Division St., in Fond du lac.
lamp and accessory lines, offering unique items to meet customers’ needs. They have also expanded their selection of decorative mirrors and clocks. New catalogs from all of their major lighting companies have arrived and are available for perusal. Save the date: The Super Home Extravaganza will be March 18-20 at the Fond du Lac Fairgrounds, and Galaxy Lighting will be on-hand, showcasing their 2016 products and catalogs. Galaxy Lightning is located at 165 W. Division St., in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-922-1700, visit galaxylightingfdl.com or find them on Facebook.
plans have provided a framework for coordinated action, resulting in consistent and increasing investment in downtown from the City, business leaders and other civic partners. Looking to the future, the Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership is partnering with the City, FCEDC, WEDC and UW-Extension to complete a market analysis to better understand residential and workforce needs, and to develop a strategically focused business attraction plan. The Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership is located at 30 S. Portland St. For more information, call 920-322-2006 or visit downtownfdl.com.
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B8
Progress
February 17, 2016
Forest Mall welcomes
Shoe Sensations, Bridal Boutique
Forest Mall
Forest Mall, Fond du Lac’s familyfriendly shopping center, continues to meet shopper demand with a selection of nationally recognized and locally owned stores. It remains a staple in the community where friends and family can shop and relax together. During the past year, Forest Mall has welcomed two stores to its diverse mix of retailers. Just recently, Shoe Sensation opened its doors with a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony in tandem with the Fond du Lac Area Association of Commerce. The regional chain, located near Kohl’s, specializes in men’s, women’s and children’s name brand footwear, including Converse, Nike, Doc Martens, New Balance, Skechers, Timberland and Vans. The Bridal Boutique, located next to Zales Jewelers, also debuted at Forest Mall in 2015. The locally owned store hosted a special grand opening weekend and awarded one bride-to-be a new wedding dress. The Bridal Boutique offers an elegant selection of bridal gowns, formal dresses and apparel, plus gifts, invita-
tions and made-to-order glassware. During 2015, Forest Mall continued to be a strong community partner by engaging residents to support a variety of worthy causes. The spring and fall Community Bazaars helped raise money and awareness for local non-profit organizations such as Relay for Life, United Way and The Salvation Army. In October, Forest Mall held its Think Pink event, encouraging shoppers and employees to dress in pink and organized a fashion show featuring the colorful hue in support of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Retailers such as Kohl’s, Dunham’s Sporting Goods, American Eagle Outfitters and rue21 also joined in by donating a portion of their sales to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Bright Pink and the Glimmer of Hope Foundation. The Forest Mall is located at 835 W. Johnson St., in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-922-5863, visit forestmall.com, facebook.com/ForestMall or follow them on Twitter and Instagram with the username @ForestMall.
The Fond du Lac County Housing Authority enacts no-smoking policy The Fond du Lac County Housing Authority
The Fond du Lac County Housing Authority owns Heather Meadows Apartments, located at 235 Winnebago St., North Fond du Lac. Heather Meadows Apartments is comprised of 31 one-bedroom units. The Housing Authority pays the heat, hot water, water and sewer and storm water utility. Residents pay 30 percent of their adjusted income for their rent. On Sept. 10, 2015 the Fond du Lac County Board of Commissioners passed a no-smoking policy that goes into effect July 1, 2016. The policy means that no smoking is allowed in any interior area all the properties owned by the Housing Authority. This includes the family units and Heather Meadows Apartments. The Fond du Lac County Housing Authority owns six duplexes (12 units) in the Village of North Fond du Lac. All of these
units have two bedrooms. The Fond du Lac County Housing Authority served approximately 430 families per month, with their rent under the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program in Fond du Lac County. In 2015, $1,650,431 was paid to landlords in Housing Assistance Payments. Eighty-nine percent of the participants reside in the city of Fond du Lac. Participants also reside in the city of Waupun (Fond du Lac County side), city of Ripon, and villages of Brandon, Campbellsport, Eden, North Fond du Lac, Mount Calvary and St. Cloud, and in the townships of Ashford, Fond du Lac, Metomen, Osceola, Taycheedah and Waupun. Fond du Lac County Housing Authority is located at 15 N. Marr St., in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-929-3107 or visit fdlpha.org.
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Section B • Development & Business
County Highway Department
hits record year for summer maintenance Fond du Lac County Highway Department
Unlike recent winters that provided record amounts of snow along with salt shortages, 2015 was mild in the form of weather. This worked out well as it allowed the Highway Department to get a jump start on what would become a record year for summer maintenance work. The department started with projects on Fond du Lac County S and Fond du Lac County G, from the Washington County Line north for 3 miles. It included modest intersection improvements, one of which was the realignment of the intersection of Auburn Ashford Drive with G. This included the installation of a cul-de-sac of an old leg of G. Deteriorated cross culverts were replaced and the pavement was pulverized, re-graded and compacted to form an improved base. The road then received 4 inches of new asphalt pavement, with new gravel shoulder and line striping. Similar treatments also were completed on Fond du Lac County W from Mount Calvary south to State 23, Fond du Lac County T from G west to Dotyville and Fond du Lac County BB in the Town of Ashford. As part of the W project, crews replaced a 400-foot failing concrete retaining wall with a new decorative concrete block wall, along with new concrete curb and gutter in that section. They also improved the storm sewer and replaced
failed sections of curb and gutter throughout the project. On T, they significantly improved drainage of the ditch entering Dotyville in an effort to eliminate water from freezing up on the highway and deteriorating both the pavement and base. The BB intersection with W was reconstructed to increase safety and sight distance. Also during this time the department performed other maintenance work. W from St. Killian to Campbellsport and State 49 from Brandon to Ripon were both chip sealed and repainted. Crews also installed more than 100 culverts, which included prefabricated concrete boxes. Some of these were large structures requiring a crane to install. The department also worked on a number of bridge rehabilitation projects throughout the county. The most ambitious project was the re-grading and widening of Fond du Lac County I ditches, road bed and shoulders in preparation for its repaving in 2016.
City of Waupun sees a variety of new businesses in downtown
City of Waupun
From community events, to renovations of long-standing businesses and new business start-ups, residents and visitors alike are finding new reasons to visit Waupun’s downtown business district. Dynamic Apparel opened at 409 E. Main St. The business provides highquality screen printing and embroidery services to Waupun and the surrounding community. Link’s Martial Arts, 315 E. Main St. held a grand reopening of their newly remodeled downtown Waupun location. Link’s Master Instructors, family programs and five-step self-defense principles are nationally recognized and respected. National Bank of Waupun completed a major renovation project, bringing the facility in alignment with the changes technology has brought to banking. Today more and more customers access services through the bank’s technology branch. Changes include more office space, expanded customer waiting areas, a coffee and an IT bar, where customers can gain access to Wi-Fi and recharging stations. A unique feature of the remodel includes a Founder’s Room, a space that showcases the bank’s history, dating back to 1885. Perfectly Polished opened at 2 S. Madison St. Perfectly Polished is a nail salon where you can pamper yourself in a relaxing environment while sipping a complimentary cup of coffee, tea or cappuccino. Roadside Relics opened at 18 S. Madison St. The business specializes in antique, vintage, distressed and re-purposed
Reviewing renovation plans at the National Bank of Waupun in downtown Waupun are Mayor Kyle Clark, at right, and National Bank of Waupun President Jerry O’Connor.
items and provides its customers with something new and different each time they visit the store. Snow Links, LLC, 17 Fond du Lac St., opened for business and offers a stateof-the-art indoor golf experience. The business offers dozens of world famous courses for the golf enthusiast to choose from, opening up the opportunity for patrons to play elite courses like Pebble Beach in the dead of winter. Wisconsin Promotions opened at 434 E. Main St. and provides screen printing and embroidery services as well as a host of promotional products for businesses, non-profits, service groups, sports teams and others to build their brand. Community events in Waupun’s Historic City Hall and events like the City’s Community Services Open House and the Waupun Chamber’s Avenue of Angels continue to bring residents and visitors to the downtown business district.
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February 17, 2016 B9 Progress Housing Authority of the City New faces, promotions at the of Fond du Lac replaces windows, Fond du Lac Police Department engages no-smoking policy
Section B • Development & Business
Fond du Lac Police Department
Housing Authority of the City of Fond du Lac
The Housing Authority of the City of Fond du Lac will be 50 years old in 2016. The by-laws were adopted by the Board of Commissioners on Nov. 16, 1966. On Sept. 14, 2015, the Housing Authority of the City of Fond du Lac Board of Commissioners passed a no-smoking policy that goes in effect July 1, 2016. The policy means that no smoking is allowed in any interior area all the properties owned by the Housing Authority. This includes the family units, Rosalind, Grand Court, Westnor and Calumet apartments. In 2015, the Housing Authority completed the replacement of the windows at Rosalind Apartments. Air conditioners were installed in an air conditioning sleeve instead of the window. The new windows drastically improved the appearance of the building. The Housing Authority received Capital Fund Program money for this project. The Housing Authority is planning on replacing all the windows at Westnor Apartments in 2016 for a cost of approximately $565,000. The Housing Authority of the City of Fond du Lac owns the following subsidized
apartment buildings: Rosalind Apartments, Grand Court Apartments and Westnor Apartments. Residents pay 30 percent of their adjusted income for rent. The Housing Authority also owns 76 scattered site Public Housing family units located in Fond du Lac. There are 14 twobedroom units, 33 three-bedroom units, 24 four-bedroom units and 5 five-bedroom units. The Calumet Apartments has 35 apartments; one efficiency, 33 one-bedroom units (six are handicapped accessible) and one two-bedroom unit. The building has a paved parking lot for the residents. There are accessible units available for rent at this time. The budget for the Housing Authority of the City of Fond du Lac is approximately $2.9 million annually. The Housing Authority paid the City of Fond du Lac $77,744.32 for payment in lieu of taxes in fiscal year ending June 30, 2015. Housing Authority of the City of Fond du Lac is located at 15 N. Marr St., in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-929-3107 or visit fdlpha.org.
Fond du Lac PD reports on drug
enforcement and prevention efforts Fond du Lac Police Department
Drug enforcement and prevention efforts remain a top priority for the City of Fond du Lac Police Department. The following data shows that officers continue to build a substantial number of cases for criminal prosecution. However, note that the criminal cases and arrests being built for heroin/opioids are down significantly. It is too early to tell with certainty if this is an indication of long-term success in the community’s battle against this epidemic, but we should point out that the resources we have committed to drug investigations and the emphasis we place on drug enforcement have remained the same. Additionally, during the past 12 to 18 months, the department has built very strong criminal cases and arrested a number of mid- to higher level drug traffickers in our city. With all of that said, it is possible that those intensified efforts, supported by other preventative and educational efforts, are beginning to make a positive impact on the prevalence of heroin/opioids in our community. We also would note that the City Fire/ Rescue Department is reporting a yearto-date correspondingly lower number of Narcan incidents, which may also suggest
LIBRARY continued from page B1
collection of materials for teachers, homeschoolers and parents. It includes book club kits, musical instrument kits, classroom kits, big books for storytelling and more. The center was made possible through a donation by Barden’s family in memory of Cindy Barden, a native of Fond du Lac and prolific author of educational books for children. Approximately 25,000 people of all ages came to the library for special events, programs and meetings throughout the year, a continuation of an upward trend. These included the popular History at Home series, children’s Storytimes and techie maker programs for kids and teens. Nearly 4,700 readers logged 3.26 million minutes of reading during the 11week summer reading program, a whop-
that the amount of heroin/opioids on our streets is less than it’s been in the past few years. Whether all of this is a positive sign or not, there remains a lot of work to be done, and the Police Department’s intensive and multi-faceted work will continue. Arrests for heroin/opioid-only offenses for the period 2013 through Sept 30, 2015, are as follows: Number of defendants • 2013 - 69 • 2014 - 96 • 2015 (Jan through Sept) - 37 Number of felony arrests/counts • 2013 - 68 • 2014 - 99 • 2015 (Jan through Sept) - 49 As referenced above, arrests alone will not adequately mitigate or minimize the devastating impact that heroin and opioids have had on the community. As such, the department has remained active leaders in other areas that are necessary to fight this epidemic – more specifically, the 4 Pillar community approach that works to address the problem by focusing on enforcement, prevention/education, harm reduction and treatment. The Fond du Lac Police Department is located at 126 N. Main St., in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-322-3700 or visit fdlpolice.com.
ping 28 percent increase over last year, which itself was a big jump over 2013. The library took the sign-up campaign to the downtown Farmers Market and Walleye Weekend. The city’s first permanent StoryWalk was installed in Lakeside Park, a joint effort by the library, City Parks Department and Kiwanis Club of Fabulous Fond du Lac. StoryWalks encourage families to enjoy reading and the outdoors by posting a children’s book – a page at a time – at intervals outdoors. Friends of the Fond du Lac Public Library hosted the first Browser Open, an indoor mini-golf fund-raiser, with plans to repeat the event on March 13, 2016. The Fond du Lac Public Library is located at 32 Sheboygan St., and has an FDLPL Express near Festival Foods in Fond du Lac. For more information, visit fdlpl.org.
The Fond du Lac Police Department began 2015 with a significant number of staffing challenges; more specifically, the Department began the year with the need to fill nine vacant police officer positions, one captain’s position, one administrative assistant position and one records clerk position. The Department worked exhaustively to fill all vacant positions while maintaining a steadfast commitment to hiring the best of the best. Through the course of the year, the Department accomplished the following to meet these needs. So far, the department has hired eight police officers and has a conditional offer of employment pending for a ninth; effectively filling all vacant officer positions before the end of the year. During the 2015 calendar year, the Department’s Field Training Team provided those newly hired police officers with in excess of 3,400 hours of intensive Field Training. New officers include: • Jesse Pimental • Matthew Burr • Matthew Crowder • Tyler Tikkanen • Baillie Kettleson • Sandra O’Donnell • Joseph Belisle • Timothy Fischer The department has hired and trained one administrative assistant, Melissa Schofield, and one records clerk, Lisa Day. The department has completed promotional processes for the ranks of captain, lieutenant and detective, and has promoted individuals into each of those ranks. Of
course, each require training and a period of orientation. These staff members are: • Capt. Jason Laridaen, East District Commander • Lt. Corby Gross, West District • Detective Nicholas Hahn Due to a combination of specialized assignment tenure limits and the aforementioned promotions, the department conducted assignment selection processes and have appointed three new School Resource Officers, one new Street Crimes Unit Officer and one new Crime Prevention Officer. As with the promotions, each require training and a period of orientation. School Resource Officers are Kieran Weed, assigned to Fond du Lac High School; Zach Schultz, to Woodworth Middle School; and Steve Olson, to Theisen Middle School. The new Street Crimes Unit Officer is Denny Vokes, and the new Crime Prevention Officer is Erik Foster. The Fond du Lac Police Department is located at 126 N. Main St., in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-322-3700 or visit fdlpolice.com.
Fond du Lac PD offers active
shooter preparedness training
Fond du Lac Police Department
In response to the prevalence of violent ambush assaults on police officers and other active shooter incidents across our nation, the Fond du Lac Police Department has, for the past few years, been continuously and very aggressively working on providing highly advanced training and acquiring specialized equipment to quickly and effectively resolve these type of incidents for the safety of our officers and our community. The equipment advancements and improvements have included ballistic protective shields, rifle plates, helmets, medical trauma kits, additional rifles, breaching tools and an armored vehicle (Bearcat) to provide ballistic protection. All sworn members of the department, regardless of rank or assignment, have received extensive training in the use of all of this equipment and the operation of the armored vehicle. Equally as important, the Police Department has been working to provide active shooter incident training and awareness for a growing number of area schools, churches, businesses and organizations. The Police Department has also trained three of its officers, Officer Ryan Williams, Officer Erik Foster and Officer
Steve Olson, as instructors who are certified to provide this training to civilian groups and help them prepare to survive an event. In addition, onsite security surveys can be provided by the department to provide input into best environmental practices for minimizing an active shooter’s impact. “While it is very regrettable that this type of training and preparedness are even necessary, the fact of the matter is that these acts of violence have become far too common in our society,” said Chief Bill Lamb, of the City of Fond du Lac Police Department. “The City of Fond du Lac Police Department has been very aggressive and deliberate in providing the members of our department with ongoing and very advanced training so we are best prepared to respond to these types of incidents and end them. However, we are one part of that equation, and we would encourage organizations of all types to consider calling upon us for training or, at a minimum, a security survey for their facilities or workplaces.” Any organization interested in inquiring about this training or security surveys offered by the Department can call Capt. Aaron Goldstein at 920-322-3704.
B10
February 17, 2016
Progress
Section B • Development & Business
NFDL Police Department
improves preparedness for active shooter situations North Fond du Lac Police Department
The North Fond du Lac Police Department is a proud, full-time police organization committed to providing the highest level of service and protection to the Village of North Fond du Lac. Every member of the team is dedicated to making a positive difference in their community. The department is committed to community-based policing and values its partnerships with citizens, businesses and community organizations. In 2015, the department continued working to improve its preparedness for active shooter situations and other violent encounters. Efforts to improve training for officers, as well as the equipment they use, increases effectiveness in resolving incidents safely for the public and police alike. While active shooter incidents remain rare, they continue to occur across the country, even right here in Wisconsin. Some of the equipment improvements implemented include tactical vests and helmets, training aids such as sim
guns and weapon-mounted cameras, and rapid response “go bags” in each squad car. Included in the “go bags” are extra handgun and rifle magazines and a selfrescue medical kit for use on the officers or victims. Funding for the “go bags” was largely provided by a donation from the North Fond du Lac Optimists Club. Training improvements include Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training, also known as “ALERRT.” In addition to preparing individual officers for effective response, ALERRT provides first responders with a standard curriculum that covers concepts and principles for team tactics. Without exception, active shooter responses involve numerous agencies as opposed to a singular department, so the need and value for training that is standardized is obvious. Additionally, the department continues to work closely with the school district to make sure it is ready to respond to emergency situations at the schools. They continue to work together to develop,
Dr. Shayne Bauer
Bauer Chiropractic Officer Jake Eagan shown with some of the department’s recentlyacquired tactical and training equipment, including “go bags” funded through a donation by the North Fond du Lac Optimists Club.
implement, review, test, evaluate and revise emergency response plans. The department conducts drills with administration, staff and students so that the department knows what to expect from the schools and they know what to expect from the police. The North Fond du Lac Police Department is located at 16 Garfield St., North Fond du Lac. For information, call 920929-3760 or visit nfdl.org/departments/ police.
Sheriff’s Office responds to 1,639 crashes,
answers 4,750 calls for service in 2015 Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office
This year was a challenging year for the Sheriff’s Office: 2015 involved traffic crashes, calls for service, investigations, safe keeping of offenders while continuing to be fiscally responsible. There were well-deserved retirements and many newly hired correctional and patrol deputies who continued to be an exciting and rewarding change to the Sheriff’s Office family of 150-plus deputies and employees. The Patrol Division remains to be the most visible, and the Sheriff’s Office received $45,000 in grants. Much of the money allows two deputies twice a week to concentrate on enforcement on State 23 East to Sheboygan County in hopes of gaining voluntary compliance and reduce the accidents that have occurred. In 2015, the Sheriff Deputies responded to 1,639 crashes, conducted 12,000 traffic stops and were involved in 1,290 transports of prisoners throughout Wisconsin. Additionally, the deputies took 4,750 complaints and calls for service, spread out over 724 square miles of county, with the patrol division logging approximately 1 million miles traveled each year. The patrol fleet is equipped with video cameras that are downloaded to a server, and eventually the evidence may be downloaded to compact discs. The Detective Bureau has continued to see areas of success and growth. Den-
The Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office responded to more than 1,600 crashes in 2015, in addition to many other duties.
nis Brantner was arrested and charged with the 1990 “murder” of Berit Beck and will continue through the court system this next year. An armed robbery of a gas station resulted in the arrest of three persons within a week. Three investigations of sexual assaults resulted in prison sentences of 38 years, 12 years and 3 years. A part-time evidence control specialist was added to the Sheriff’s Office to assist in the evidence storage and increased digital evidence.
Dr. James Neuber
The Sheriff’s Office remains traditional and image minded. The appearance of ethics and demeanor of the Sheriff’s deputy instills public trust and confidence. The Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office is located at 180 S. Macy St., in Fond du Lac. For non-emergency matters, call 920-929-3390. For administrative matters, call 920-929-3370. For more information, visit fdlsheriff.com.
adds Neuber to staff Bauer Chiropractic
Bauer Chiropractic is proud to announce the addition of Dr. James Neuber to its staff. Opening in March 1998, Bauer Chiropractic has been serving the Fond du Lac area for nearly 18 years. With the addition of Neuber, the clinic will now be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and offers lunchtime appointments. The clinic also will be open from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. Neuber brings with him 24 years of chiropractic experience and notes his eagerness to begin treating patients in this area. “I am excited to begin serving the people of Fond du Lac and the surrounding area,” said Neuber. “I am originally from the Chilton area and proud to begin practicing closer to my roots.” Dr. Shayne Bauer and Neuber both practice primarily hands-on chiropractic treatment of the spine and extremities. Both doctors treat a variety of conditions that respond well to chiropractic care, including: Neck and back pain, headaches, sciatica and sprains/strains. Bauer has a special interest in difficult disc cases of the neck and lower back, as well as high school and college athletes. Neuber has special interest in infants and toddlers as well. Other services provided in the clinic include flexiondistraction therapy, cervical and lumbar decompression/traction, electrical muscle stimulation, ultrasound, and other therapy modalities. “My mantra has always been to treat appropriate conditions conservatively first but we refer to the next most appropriate practitioner when necessary. The patient must come first,” said Bauer. Bauer Chiropractic has been voted the Reporter’s Readers Choice Best Chiropractic Clinic in 2015 by its readers. “It is an honor to be given such recognition by our patients” said Bauer. “With our expanded hours we will continue to strive to serve our patients with the highest quality of care and greater ease of access.” Bauer Chiropractic is located at 355 N. Peter’s Ave. For more information, call 920-923-3322 or visit bauerchirofdl.com.
DR. SHAYNE BAUER
DR. JAMES NEUBER
7am - 7pm Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8am - 7pm Tuesday & Thursday 9am - Noon Saturday Same Day Appointments Available WWW.BAUERCHIROFDL.COM
920-923-3322 355 N PETERS AVENUE
Section B • Development & Business
Progress
February 17, 2016
Bauer Physical Therapy
ment available. Bauer’s continuous goal is to have each patient resume his or her former activities, active lifestyle, independence and confidence. Some of the specialty treatments Bauer implements in the quest for successful patient recovery include Spinal Manipulation, Dry Needling, Biomechanical Analysis, Myofascial Release and Soft Tissue Mobilization including the Graston technique. Individualized treatment plans address orthopedic or neurological care, workplace injuries and rehabilitation, post-operative rehabilitation and sports medicine. An athlete and sports aficionado himself, Bauer has pursued specific training and certification in sports medicine, with an emphasis on golfing
and pitching biomechanics. Bauer also treats conditions not always associated with physical therapy treatment, including vertigo, plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, back and neck pain, migraine and other headaches, and body asymmetries and imbalances. “People often aren’t aware of what I, as a specialized physical therapist, can do for them,” said Bauer. “I offer treatments not often utilized in a physical therapy setting. I am passionate about improving lives; the most gratifying part of my work is helping patients find solutions to their physical problems.” At Bauer Physical Therapy, patients have continuity of treatment, with Bauer seeing each patient for every appointment. Bauer Physical Therapy is located at 355 N. Peters Ave., in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-929-9712 or visit bauerphysicaltherapyfdl.com.
performs arthroscopic surgery of the hip, knee, ankle, shoulder and elbow. He also tackles ligament repair and reconstruction, cartilage and realignment procedures, and a host of other joint replacement surgeries. Fagan is renowned for using the least invasive techniques, including less-painful, faster-recovering minimally-invasive anterior approach total hip replacement and partial knee replacement. “I strive to always collaborate with my patients and share decision-making when it comes to orthopedic care,” said Fagan. “The demand for sports medicine services is only increasing, and Aurora Health Center really meets it by providing such a wide range of care in Fond du Lac.” This growing orthopedic program is also supported by Potter’s hand and upper-ex-
tremity procedures. He focuses on surgical and nonsurgical treatments for shoulder, elbow and hand problems. Potter uses both traditional approaches and less-invasive practices, such as endoscopic carpal tunnel release. These three surgeons come together in support of growing Aurora Heath Center’s orthopedic department along with Dr. Thurmond Lanier, a podiatrist, and Dr. Mark Donovan, a chiropractor. The Aurora Health Center also houses a rehabilitation center that provides physical therapy, incontinence therapy, cardiac rehab and occupational therapy services. Aurora Health Center is located at 210 Wisconsin American Drive, in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-907-7000 or visit aurorahealthcare.org.
celebrates 15 years treating patients
Evelyn McLean-Cowan On behalf of Bauer Physical Therapy
Pictured are Doctors Ryan Hause, Vickie Goldapske and Gayle Martin, of Dynamic Chiropractic and Wellness Center.
Bauer Physical Therapy will celebrate its 15th year in business, successfully treating Fond du Lac area patients beginning in March 2001. Since the founding of Bauer Physical Therapy, owner Shane Bauer has treated a wide variety of orthopedic and neurological conditions in patients of all ages. Throughout those years, Bauer has continued to expand his knowledge and certifications in different treatments, so that he can offer patients a broad range of different modalities to more effectively and thoroughly treat their pain or impaired mobility. Treatment plans are specific to each individual, with several options of treat-
Dynamic Chiropractic Aurora Health Center expands orthopedic program and Wellness Center Aurora Health Center
celebrates 15 years of serving health care needs Dynamic Chiropractic and Wellness Center
Drs. Vickie Goldapske, Ryan Haus and Gayle Martin of Dynamic Chiropractic and Wellness Center offer more than 50 combined years of experience. The doctors at Dynamic Chiropractic and Wellness Center are committed to providing pain relief for many symptoms and conditions to promote a higher quality of life. Dynamic offers the community chiropractic care and expanded health care services to include rehabilitation services, nutritional counseling, low level laser therapy, sports medicine care, acupressure and massage therapy. Individualized care is offered for all family members from infants to senior citizens. 2015 also brought a new approach to wellness to the Fond du Lac community. Dr. Vickie Goldapske has now also become a provider with The Wellness Way, pioneering the “We Don’t Guess…We Test” model of health care. This method focuses on discovering the root cause of an illness, rather than “fixing or covering up” a symptom or health problem. The Wellness Way focuses on the individual person rather than an isolated set of symptoms. Goldapske and staff spend time with their patients, listening to their history and looking at the interactions among genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that can influence long-term health and complex, chronic conditions. Dynamic Chiropractic and Wellness Center is located at 952 S. Park Ave., in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-921-9100 or visit dynamicdoctors. com and twwclinics.com, or find them on Facebook.
Dr. Paul Fagan, D.O., joined the Aurora Health Center in Fond du Lac providing Sports Medicine services. Fagan joins Dr. Loren Potter, D.O., hand and upper Dr. Paul Fagan extremity surgeon, and Dr. Ilan Shapiro, M.D., in orthopedic services. These three providers collaborate in the extended orthopedic program to provide a wide range of care to meet increasing patient demands. Fagan specializes in operative and non-operative sports medicine for amateur, community and professional athletes. He
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We Are Excited About The Future & Serving Fond Du Lac With Compassionate Care!
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Aurora Health Center 1135 Westowne Drive • Neenah 920-720-8200 Aurora Health Center 210 Wisconsin American Drive • Fond du Lac 920-907-7000
Aurora Health Center 6085 Harbour View Dr • Winneconne Phone: (920) 582-0600
Katie Buser, CNM
Beth Garcia, CNM
Loree Olson, CNM
Brenna Reimer, CNM
Lindsay Bahn, CNM
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February 17, 2016 Section B • Development & Business Progress FOND DU LAC • OSHKOSH • GREEN LAKE • FOX VALLEY
Adashun Jones
30
Celebrating 30 Years in Business * Experienced Agents * 24/7 Property Search * Award Winning Service
The Area's #1 Choice for Buying, Selling, & Building! www.adashunjones.com
Make The Right Move
920.923.4433 1028 S. Main St., Fond du Lac
* Over 400 Custom Homes Built * Over 20 Years of Satisfied Clients * Craftsmanship, Design & Quality
The Area’s #1 Choice for New Construction! WI-5001961788
2016
Progress Section C: Community & Services
February 17, 2016 A Supplement to Action Advertiser
Ascension Lutheran Church raises
enough money for three water wells
Open Circle Unitarian Universalist Fellowship works with Shared Seasons CSA farm and has weekly pick-ups at Open Circle.
Ascension Lutheran Church
Open Circle
This article is a reminder of what faith can do, even if it’s no bigger than a tiny mustard seed. Ascension Lutheran Church has a summer Vacation Bible School Program every year for children ages 4 through adult, and each year they try to incorporate projects that serve the church family, AGNESION continued on page C2
St. Peter’s Lutheran School adds
new teaching staff St. Peter’s Lutheran School
St. Peters Lutheran School continues to be one of the top private Christian schools in the state for academic excellence, while teaching students of Christ Jesus and his forgiveness. The school has increased enrollment from 115 in 2013 to 132 in 2015 and is projecting growth to 160 in 2017. To keep pace with the growth, two new teachers have been installed in the lower classrooms. The two new teachers bring youth to the staff and experience in tech-
Members of the Ascension Lutheran Church congregation pose to celebrate the unexpected success of their recent fundraiser.
nology and the fine arts; such as musicals, dramas and art. St. Peter’s Lutheran School gives children full exposure to extra-curricular athletic, academic and social activities to be able to recognize and encourage their talents, interests and abilities. “Everything that is taught at our school is to prepare our students for life and eternity,” said Pastor Matthew Guse. The school welcomes first-grade teacher Elizabeth Glodowski and fourthgrade teacher Alysa Balfour. Glodowski was born in Fountain City, Wisconsin, and has been teaching for nine years. For the past eight years, she has been teaching in Carlsbad, California. Alysa Balfour is a Fond du Lac native. This is her third year teaching. She taught for half a school year at Pilgrim in Minneapolis and was a substitute teacher for a year for the Oshkosh and Rosendale
Open Circle Unitarian Universalist Fellowship
Elizabeth Glodowski
Alysa Balfour
school districts. Save the date: Enrollment for the 2016-17 school year began Feb. 1. Tuition assistance and community scholarships are available. St. Peter’s Lutheran School is located at 1600 S. Main St., in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-922-1160 or visit stpetersfdl.net. For a tour, email Principal Andrew Mildebrandt at andrewmildebrandt@stpetersfdl.net.
Kurkis purchase Mach funeral business; rename it
Kurki-Mach Funeral Chapel & Crematory
INSIDE:
RELIGION Ascension Lutheran Church Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes Essential Rock Church Holy Cross Lutheran Open Circle St. Paul's St. Peter's Lutheran School
In the fall of 2015, Open Circle Unitarian Universalist Fellowship celebrated its 10-year anniversary in Fond du Lac and its seventh year in its church home at 19 E. Third St. This year has been a time of reaffirmation and expansion of the commitment for peace, justice, compassion and sustainability. In 2015, OCUUF’s Eco-Food committee decided to broaden its scope, choosing Earth Justice Now as its new name to reflect a focus on care for the earth in general and climate change in particular. Earth Justice Now seeks to cooperate OPEN CIRCLE continued on page C2
Brown Paper Packages Gift Shop volunteers Karen Hausauer and Marge Hauch stand inside the new gift shop located inside the Fond du Lac Senior Center.
Brown Paper Packages Gift Shop opens
Kurki-Mach Funeral Chapel & Crematory
Don and Barb Kurki purchased Mach Funeral Chapel & Crematory on Sept. 16, 2015, from Bruce Mach. Don Kurki completed his studies in funeral service at Milwaukee Area Technical College, and passed his state exam to become a Wisconsin Funeral Director and Embalmer. He was employed with UeckerWitt Funeral Home for over 31 years, from Oct. 11, 1983, to April 15, 2015. Barb Kurki taught kindergarten in the RosendaleBrandon School District for 35 years. The funeral chapel was established in 1892, by Robert Candlish, in Rosendale, coming to Fond du Lac in 1904, and to its present location, in 1940. It was purchased by Bob Mach and his son, Bruce Mach, in 1985. The funeral chapel will now be known as Kurki-Mach Funeral Chapel & Crematory.
celebrates 10 years, reaffirms commitment to peace, justice, compassion, sustainability
Pictured are staff at Kurki-Mach Funeral Chapel & Crematory, front row, from left: Vicky Berg, Don Kurki, Barb Kurki, Rueben Ruch; back row, from left: Dave Olson, Scott Wittchow, Christopher Kurki and Roger Labombard.
Kurki’s staff includes Vicky Berg, office manager, who has been with the funeral chapel for more than 20 years. Paul Dercks has joined the staff as a pre-planning consultant and funeral director. Additionally, Scott Wittchow, Roger Labombard, Rueben Ruch, Dave Olson and Christopher Kurki work as funeral assistants. In the near future, additional funeral assistants and an aftercare specialist will be joining
Senior Services Aging & Disability Resource Center Fond du Lac Senior Center Kurki-Mach Funeral Chapel & Crematory Lake View Place Uecker-Witt Funeral Home Woodlands Senior Park
the staff. The funeral chapel has warm and comfortable surroundings, with convenient parking. There is also an onsite crematory for families selecting cremation. Kurki-Mach Funeral Chapel & Crematory is located at 31 E. Division St. in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-9214420 or visit machfuneralchapel.com.
MUNICIPAL Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Department
inside Fond du Lac Senior Center
Fond du Lac Senior Center
After months of planning and remodeling, Brown Paper Packages Gift Shop is now open. The store, located inside the Fond du Lac Senior Center, features unique items for you and your home, many handcrafted by local residents. “Whether shopping for yourself, or a gift, you’re sure to find a few of your favorite things,” said Mary Otterstatter, gift shop coordinator. “Our selection includes: Home and cabin décor; bird houses and feeders; kitchen accessories; bread, muffin and soup mixes; Chocolates by Confections for Any Occasion; Faris popcorn; hats, scarves, mittens, jewelry, clothing and accessories; baby and toddler toys; candles, soaps, lotions; and so BROWN PAPER continued on page C4
C2
Progress
February 17, 2016
AGNESION continued from page B1
local community and also those in other countries. This year the program took on a large international project. The goal was to collect $2,500 to purchase a water well through ELCA Good Gifts program. “This was going to be very difficult, but very much worth the challenge since each well gives about 500 families access to clean drinking water,” said Tina Tollard, director of Children’s & Family Ministry at Ascension Lutheran Church. “We started the goal about one month ahead of time in the hopes to reach it by the end our Vacation Bible School program, which was the first week in August.” They encouraged families to share this goal with family and friends and had T-shirts made. Before VBS week started in August, the goal had already been met.
“It was so inspiring to see families coming up with all kinds of creative ways to get donations, since clean drinking water is something that should be accessible for everyone,” said Tollard. To date, the program has collected enough money to purchase three wells, and collections continue. “This goal was surpassed not only by generous hearts but also by the Holy Spirit working through each one of us at Ascension Lutheran Church,” said Tollard. “So I end with this: Anytime you think that mountain is too big, remember that it is not, since all you need is to have just a tiny bit a faith.” Ascension Lutheran Church is located at 901 Fond du Lac County V, in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-9223353 or visit alcfdl.org.
Section C • Community & Services
OPEN CIRCLE continued from page B1
with other individuals and organizations in Fond du Lac answering the urgent call to work together to mitigate the degradation and destruction of life on earth brought on by human actions. A workshop held in November brought together members from Pilgrim United Church of Christ, Sisters of St. Agnes, Marian University and UW-FDL in the hopes that there can be more collaboration among like-minded individuals in the years ahead. Open Circle’s church is available to organizations for little or no cost to hold events or meetings that promote their social justice values. United for Diversity (UFD) holds its monthly meetings at Open Circle. UFD aims to improve relations and respect for all people in Fond du Lac. Their motto is “Celebrate, Educate and Advocate for Diversity.” The newly formed Humanity Project
Holy Cross Lutheran
A Place to Grow with People who Care! Sunday Worship
8:00 a.m. 10:45 a.m. Education Hour 9:15 a.m.
Worship with us
Sundays 6pm-7pm Bible Study 5pm-6pm 303 E. 9th Street • Fond du Lac
920-921-2592
(age 4 - adult)
Staffed Nursery Available!
ELCA
Corner of Pioneer Rd and County V
www.holycrosslutheranchurchnalc.com Come Share the Spirit! WI-5001972206
held its partnership meeting at Open Circle in October. “The key to the project is a unique experiment that pairs together people from different ethnic backgrounds,” said Judy Goldsmith, OCUUF member. Educational community gatherings are organized as well; several will be held at Open Circle in 2016. Shared Season Farm, a small family-run community supported agriculture (CSA) business, had its weekly farm produce pickup site at Open Circle in 2015. Of the 120 CSA members, 19 belong to Open Circle. OCUUF is proud to support Shared Seasons and to know that the group helped in promoting a locally run farm that grows crops that do not use synthetic fertilizers, herbicides or pesticides. Open Circle Unitarian Universalist Fellowship is located at 19 E. Third St. For information, call 920-924-8598 or visit ocuuf.org.
For more information, please call Pastor Jeff Blain
922-3353
Or e-mail: pastorjb@alcfdl.org Mailing Address: 901 County Road V www.alcfdl.org
WI-5001974636
Start Fresh At Edgewood Community Church
PRESENTATION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH North Fond du Lac
OUR RISEN SAVIOR PARISH Eldorado, WI
FOND DU LAC
Sunday Worship 10:00am North Fond du Lac High School 325 McKinley Street NFDL 920-266-9875
WAUPUN
Saturday Worship 5:30pm Sunday Worship 9:00am & 10:30am 201 Edgewood Drive 920-324-5007
Fully Staffed Nursery & Children’s Church Please come join us at one of our weekend services, where we are seeking to joyously lift up the name of the Lord Jesus Christ through contemporary worship and relevant preaching from God’s Word. WI-5001974229
www.edgewoodcommunity.org
PRESENTATION: Saturday Mass: 4:30pm Sunday Mass: 8:00am Mon - Tues - Thurs: 8:00am Thursday Evening: 7:30pm Our Risen Savior: Sunday Mass: 10:00am Wednesday Mass: 6:30pm
701 Michigan Avenue North Fond du Lac 920-921-9383
N6499 County Trunk Y Eldorado (Woodhull) 920-539-8167 Father Joseph Dominic pbvmoffice@yahoo.com
WI-5001974224
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST Sunday Worship Services 9:00am - Traditional Service Christian Education Sunday School - 10:15am
Small Group Ministries
Choirs
Chancel Choir Handbell Choir WI-5001969710
Covenant United Methodist Church
20 N. Marr St. (at Division St.) email: covenant@covumcfdl.org Pastor Michael Morning 921-4949 Office Hours: 8:00am-1:00pm Monday-Thursday
www.covenantUMCwi.org
Congregations of Fond du Lac County People putting faith into action to make a difference in the world… Caring, open-minded religious communities supporting your spiritual journey… RIPON
FOND DU LAC
PRAIRIE LAKES UU FELLOWSHIP
OPEN CIRCLE UU FELLOWSHIP
Sunday services 10:00 a.m. Religious Education & Nursery
Sunday services and programs 10:00 a.m. Religious Education & Nursery
315 Eureka St. ~ 920.745.2446 info@pluuf.org ~ www.pluuf.org www.facebook.com/PrairieLakesUU
19 East Third St. ~ 920.924.8598
WI-5001967726
opencircleuuf@gmail.com ~ www.ocuuf.org www.facebook.com/open circle unitarian universalist fellowship
Progress
Section C • Community & Services
Holy Cross Lutheran
February 17, 2016
C3
St. Paul’s addresses gymnasium renovations, increases technology in the classroom
reports on a year’s activity
St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church
Holy Cross Lutheran Church
At Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 2015 was a “blessed” year. The church’s Bible study, which features the book “The Story,” confirmation and worship all saw increased attendance. The church held a chili supper in February and a Christmas festival in November, which featured Mr. and Mrs. Claus, games, contests and a project where guests decorated cookies to be given to the Fond du Lac Police Department. They
also celebrated Jesus’ birthday on Dec. 24 and 25. Save the date: The church will hold “Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage” in April, and has plans to host movie nights with popcorn and treats. For more information about Holy Cross Lutheran Church, call 920-921-2592 or visit holycrosslutherannalc.com. The church meets at the Youth For Christ building, 303 E. Ninth St.
For churches and the schools they foster, “progress is a funny thing to ponder.” So often we focus on numbers, buildings and money in our world when we ponder it. But progress is also the one soul who comes to church and hears of Jesus. Progress is the Christian funeral, where we celebrate another brother or sister at home with the Lord. Progress is young men and women, instructed in God’s truth and standing before the altar confessing their faith. Progress in the eyes of God can be hard to point at with numbers, buildings or dollar signs. The physical blessings of our God have been evident however, especially within St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran School. In the summer of 2014, the congregation voted to under-
HOLY TRINITY GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH
take a renovation project to address some issues in our gymnasium. In 2015, insulation, walls, more fans, fully adjustable basketball hoops, a new hardwood floor and collapsible bleachers were all added to increase safety, flexibility of use and heating efficiency. The church and school also continue to make its classrooms excel. It added a more reliable network and Cromebooks to complement Smartboards. The hope is that as the school learns more about the technology, it will add more as well so that students continue to be competitive as they head on to high school. St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church, School & Preschool is located at 1010 Adams Ave., in North Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920- 922-1080 or visit stpaulslutherannfdl.com.
You don’t open it.
198 N. Macy St. Fond du Lac 920-921-4364
It opens you.
www.holytrinity.wi.goarch.org | Father Ted Trifon
Service Schedule
We have God’s Word for you every weekend. It will engage your mind and stir your heart. Join us for services on Saturdays at 5:30 p.m. and Sundays at 8:00 a.m. and 10:40 p.m. WI-5001973418
Sundays: Orthros/Matins 9am, Divine Liturgy 10:00am Sunday School follows Holy Communion. “Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” - Romans 15:7
Hope Lutheran Church • 260 Vincent Street • Fond du Lac 920-922-5130 • www.lifeathope.org • LCMS
WI-5001974245
ST. PAUL’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, SCHOOL AND PRESCHOOL North Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
CHURCH & SCHOOL www.stpaulslutherannfdl.com
1010 Adams Ave. 922-1080
WORSHIP:
Sat. 6:30 pm; Sun. 7:45 am & 10:15 am
Holy Land Catholic Parishes Pastor Father Gary Wegner, OFM Cap
920-753-3311
BIBLE STUDY:
Holy Cross Church 308 S. Cty. W., Mt. Calvary Saturday 4:30 pm • Sunday 10:00 am St. Cloud Church 924 Main St., St. Cloud Sunday 8:00 am St. Joseph Church W620 Cty. G, St. Cloud 2nd & 4th Sundays • 6:00 pm
Wed. 8:45 am Sun. 9:00 am
St. John the Baptist Parish, Johnsburg N. 9288 Cty. W. Saturday 4:15 pm • Sunday 10:30 am
LITTLE PIONEERS PRESCHOOL
St. Mary Parish, Marytown N. 10232 Hwy. G Saturday 8:00 pm • Sunday 8:30 am
Ages 3, 4, 5 Call now to register for Fall 2016 WI-5001972576
All are handicapped accessible
WI-5001972634
Grace Reformed Church
.o @mbcfdl ministry
10:00 am Worship: Sunday Lages Sunday classes for AL
All Ages Encouraged to Attend • Sunday Worship: 8:30 AM and 10:45 AM Nursery Available for All Services
Come! Share! Grow!
Interests for all experiences
• Christian Education: 9:45 AM • AWANA 6:00 PM Sundays • Middle School Youth Group - 6:00 PM Sunday Nights • High School Youth Group - 7:30 PM Sunday Nights • Small Groups meet throughout the week
“We are Seeking to Help You Love God and Love Others Passionately”
CHURCH OFFICES: Fax:922-8690
920-922-7211
e-mail: office@grcfdl.org www.grcfdl.org
holylandcatholicparishes.org rg mbcfdl.o rg
163 East 18th Street, Fond du Lac
WI-5001972412
St. Isidore the Farmer Parish
WI-5001972535
C4
Progress
February 17, 2016
BROWN PAPER continued from page B1
much more.” “We are so excited to share our shop with the Fond du Lac community,” said Cathy Loomans, Senior Center director. “Our name comes from the song ‘My Favorite Things’ and we hope that when you stop and visit us, you find something that becomes your next ‘favorite thing.’” Brown Paper Packages is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday; 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday evenings and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month. For information, follow the shop on Facebook at facebook.com/Brown Paper Packages Gift Shop or call 920-3223637. The Fond du Lac Senior Center is located at 151 E. First St., Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-322-3630.
Section C • Community & Services
Essential Rock Church finds new home in old building Essential Rock Church
As 2015 came to a close, Essential Rock Church of Fond du Lac moved into the former Immanuel Trinity Church Building. The first service was held in the new location on Dec. 20. “We are so pleased to see an older House of God returned to its roots and, even though repurposed for a time as a restaurant, it's now a church again! We wish to thank God first, then Louie Lange & the Commonwealth team for the support in leasing to a church again,” said Pastor John Slotten. After spending two years in a storefront location at 44 N. Main St., the church population required a larger space. Essential Rock Church signed a five-year lease with two renewal options, keeping the building on the tax rolls while allowing the
church to grow and serve the city. “We felt called to stay vitally connected to the downtown where city stakeholders see a need and the church sees an opportunity,” Slotten said. The church plans to offer the space for use to outside groups and also be available for indoor or outdoor small-medium weddings. “We are a community church and this church facility will be for community use,” said Pastor Stacey Meyers. “We want to open our doors to community organizations, non-profits, businesses, and service groups to see how we can partner together in strengthening and revitalizing Downtown Fond du Lac. We have great audio visual equipment and beautiful spaces to utilize during the week.”
In 2015, Essential Rock’s community focus was evident by their involvement in all major downtown events, such as Fondue Fest and the Farmers Market, as well as the numerous evening activities available to the community: prayer meetings on Monday nights, classes on Tuesday nights, Bible study on Wednesday nights, and a free meal and a 12-step recovery program on Thursday nights. “We want the community to know who we are, the heart we have for the people and families of Fond du Lac and the world, along with what we have to offer,” said Meyers. Essential Rock Church is located at 40 E. Division St., in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-841-6459 or visit essentialrockchurch.com.
Celebrating over 50 years of ministry
CALVARY
BIBLE CHURCH
70 E. Pioneer Road, Fond du Lac (Two blocks east of Main St.)
Pastor Ken Kramer • 921-0530
www.calvarybiblefdl.org
“Preaching the Living Word of God” Sunday School
Sunday .................................................... 9:15 AM
Worship Service
Sunday .................................................. 10:30 AM (Nursery care provided)
Bible Study and Prayer
Wednesday...............................................6:00 PM
Ladies Bible Study
Every other Tuesday ..................................1:00 PM
Couples Bible Study
Tuesday ....................................................6:30 PM
Mens Bible Study
Saturday .................................................. 7:00 AM WI-5001972975
We are a “Bible” church! We are not “seeker sensitive,” “purpose driven,“ or “emergent” but are unashamedly and unapologetically conservative, fundamental, evangelistic and Christcentered. Some may consider us “Oldfashioned” as we still use hymnals for the majority of our worship music and there is a strong emphasis on reading and preaching God’s Word, but our love of God and one another is fresh and new, and many find the atmosphere here warm, friendly and reminiscent of what “Church” used to be! Visitors are always welcome!
Grace Christian Church
First Presbyterian Church Come discover loving and inclusive fellowship
Passion for God and compassion for people.
Sunday Worship 8:00 A.M. and 10:30 A.M.
Service Times Sunday @ 9:30 AM & 6:00 PM*
Church School Sunday 9:15 A.M. (all ages)
*No evening service the 1st Sunday of the month or Sundays that are also Holidays
Wednesday @ 7:00 PM
First Presbyterian Church 1225 Fourth Street Fond du Lac, WI 920-922-0425 www.fdlpresbyterian.org
Listen on the Radio: KFIZ 1450AM Sundays @ 7:35 AM
1596 4th St | Fond du Lac, WI 54937 grace@gccfdl.org • (920) 923-5292 WI-5001973424
WI-5001973851
Faith Lutheran Church
Sunday - 7:45 am and 10:30 am • Thursday 6:30 pm • Radio Service Sunday 8:00 am on KFIZ 1450
www.stpetersfdl.net
Sundays 7:45 am & 10:30 am • Summers 7:45 am & 9:30 am Sunday School & Bible Class at 9:10 am Thursdays 6:30 pm • Saturdays 5:30 pm
1600 S. Main Street, Fond du Lac 922-1160 Pastors Michael Zuberbier and Matthew Guse WI-5001972628
Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod
K-8 School Serving Fond du Lac Since 1863
WI-5001972856
55 Prairie Rd. Fond du Lac | 920-922-3530 | www.faithlutheranfdl.com
February 17, 2016 C5 Progress Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes receive Hilton Foundation Grants
Section C • Community & Services
Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes
During the past year, the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes has been the recipient of two grants from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. The grants are part of the “Sister Story” initiative where students are matched one-on-one with sisters, most in their 70s and 80s, to record their lives, develop friendships and to get to know the real life of a religious woman. Hilton, an international business pioneer who founded Hilton Hotels, directed his board in his will to support the work of religious women. The foundation selects five colleges a year to pair students with sisters for a semester. Sister Edie Crews, Vocation Director for CSA, applied for the “Sister Story”
grant with Marian University. Based on the success of the first semester, six additional students will begin their weekly meetings in January 2016. “Many of the young women who participate in the program have had little or no contact with a sister. Some are looking for a spiritual guide while others are looking for a mentor,” said Sister Edie. “The bond that is formed over the weekly meetings is strong and positive. The sisters open themselves to creating a relationship with a much younger person. They have found it to be energizing and life giving.” The semester-long Marian University class ends with students producing a 45-minute video of the sisters. The videos
are archived at St. Catherine University in St. Paul, Minnesota, who began this unique program. Crystal Sales, 21, a participant, graduated in June majoring in early childhood educations. She was paired with Sister Stella Marie Karls, an elementary teacher for more than 37 years. “I’ve never really had a conversation with a nun before” said Sales. “We had a lot in common, we both grew up on farms and we love working with children.” “I felt right at home the first day I met Crystal,” said Sister Stella. “I have learned a lot from her.” The Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes is located at 320 Fond du Lac County
Pictured are Sister Paulette Shaw and student Katie Schmidt, members of the Sister Story program.
K, in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-907-2300 or visit csasisters.org.
Serving Our Community-Impacting Lives-Restoring Families Through the Gospel of Jesus Christ
Spirit of Life Christian Church 240 N. National Ave • Fond du Lac, WI 54935 920-923-9222 Wednesday Prayer Service 7:00pm Saturday Evening Service 6:00pm Sunday Morning Service 10:00am
Children’s Church and Nursery Available for Saturday and Sunday Services WI-5001974261
WI-5001974345
www.spiritoflifefdl.com
WI-5001974335
essential rock church
Sunday Worship: 10:30 am Wednesday Bible Study 6:30 pm Thursday Nights Free Meal 5:15 pm Celebrate Recovery 6:30 pm
Come join us Sunday morning for Biblical teaching as together we reach and restore the hurting toward wholeness in Christ. Contemporary Worship and Biblical Teaching.
**Childrens Sunday School Available**
40 E. Division St. Fond du Lac
920-933-3233
WI-5001974347
WI-5001974220
essentialrockchurch.com Wheelchair Accessible
C6
Progress
With a vision for the future and a progressive approach to service, Uecker-Witt celebrates 55 years of service to Fond du Lac and the surrounding communities.
February 17, 2016
SOPHIA continued from page C1
Christopher D. Holz
Lee C. Uecker
Jason C. Dill
President Funeral Director
Funeral Director Manager of Parkview Cremations
Funeral Director
Section C • Community & Services
Stephen C. Uecker
Lynne Uecker
CEO Funeral Director
Vice-President Business Administrator
Janet Immel
Jackie Vander Galien
Teresa Westing
Office Manager
Family Care Coordinator
Advanced Funeral Planner
Amy DeMeter Apprentice Funeral Director
WE’RE MORE THAN A STAFF, WE’RE A FAMILY
SEATED (LEFT TO RIGHT) Carol & John Graham, Lynne & Steve Uecker, Lee & Amber Uecker, Lauren Uecker STANDING (LEFT TO RIGHT) Gary & Vickie Pucker, Janet & Rod Immel, Jason Dill, Casey & Cap Amrhein, Bob & Bonnie Badura, Doug Hoffmann, Ryan & Kari Graham, Chris Holz, Teresa Westing, Jackie & Randy Vander Galien, Amy DeMeter & John Larson, John Rabe
Learn more by visiting ueckerwitt.com and facebook.com/ueckerwitt
WI-5001970533
524 N. Park Ave. in Fond du Lac “By the Park” 920.922.5110 info@ueckerwitt.com
Section C • Community & Services
Uecker-Witt marks 55 years,
Progress
Lee Uecker promoted to president
Uecker-Witt Funeral Home
2016 marks 55 years for the UeckerWitt Funeral Home, founded by funeral directors Harold Uecker and Russell Witt on Aug. 19, 1961. Originally built as a 6,000-square-foot “modern” facility, the location, south of Lakeside Park, has seen many changes. Most notably, the facility was expanded in 1987, into a neighboring warehouse that formerly housed the Raymer Motor Co., and granted the funeral home an additional 10,000 square feet. Also in 1987, Parkview Cremations was established on-site, the first crematory in Fond du Lac County. Parkview now serves more than two dozen firms across six counties. Uecker-Witt is a veteran-owned business. CEO Stephen Uecker was a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army, and served a 13-month tour in Vietnam before an honorable discharge in 1970. His father’s death in 1971, coupled with graduation from the Indiana College of Mortuary Science, found Uecker back in Fond du Lac, serving as funeral director, business partner and president of the corporation at only 26 years of age. Now, 45 years later, he is serving as the firms CEO. “Once at your side, (Stephen Uecker)
will stick with you through the good and the bad,” said Lee Uecker, of his father. “I see this in his care of the families that we serve, in his close friendships of over half a century and in his dedication to the staff at the funeral home.” Stephen also serves on the board of directors for many area organizations, and is a supporter of the music and arts. Lee was named president of the corporation in January of this year, and UeckerWitt is owned solely by the second and third generations of the Uecker family, since the passing of Russell Witt in 1980. “With Lee’s promotion to president of Uecker-Witt Funeral Home, I feel that the families that will be served in the future will experience the outstanding care and compassion that have been a trademark of our firm,” said Stephen Uecker It is loyalty, coupled with over a half century of leadership and service that has allowed Uecker-Witt Funeral Home to become one of the largest, single-location, family owned funeral homes in the region. Uecker-Witt Funeral Home is located at 524 N. Park Ave., in Fond du Lac, and can be reached at 920-922-5110. For more information, visit ueckerwitt.com or facebook. com/ueckerwitt.
Aging and Disability Resource Center to offer
Music and Memory program Aging and Disability Resource Center
“My dad was lost without music. Now he laughs, engages in conversation again and even recognizes us when we visit.” This quotation was from Sharon, daughter of a Music and Memory program participant at the Aging and Disability Resource Center. Paul, another program participant, comes with his wife from northern Wisconsin. “Music has the ability to stimulate our whole being,” he said. “Music is ‘food for the soul.’” Several parts of the brain are used to process the tempo of music. Some of these processes are able to bypass damaged parts of the brain and in doing so, memory and emotional expression are activated. Music that the listener recognizes and enjoys can calm agitation, reduce the need for psychotropic medications, stimulate the mind and energize the body. The emotional connection to the personalized playlists are key to the Music and Memory program. This program has been used in more than 100 long-term care facilities in Wisconsin and will now be available in private homes in Fond du Lac County. Beginning in 2016, social workers
from the Aging and Disability Resource Center and volunteer college students will be visiting those who are interested in the program. The Aging and Disability Resource Center is looking for five to 10 families who have a family member with dementia living in their homes. There is no cost to the participants, and caregivers will be taught how to use the program to help soothe individuals with dementia. For more information, please call 920-9293466. The popular fall prevention program, Stepping On, will once again be offered in locations throughout Fond du Lac County. Class dates, times and locations will be made public soon. Save the date: Low Vision 101 classes will be offered from 1 to 3 p.m. on the third Friday of each month. In addition, Ginny Nyhuis from the Alzheimer’s Association comes to the ADRC on the first Wednesday of each month. To make an appointment with Nyhuis, call 920-838-1311. All programs mentioned above are offered at no cost to the participant. The Aging and Disability Resource Center is located at 50 N. Portland St. in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-929-3466 or email adrc@fdlco.wi.gov.
Lake View Place
February 17, 2016
offers location for seniors to thrive Lake View Place
2016 marks the 19th year that the Lake View Place senior living community has served the Fond du Lac community. Lake View Place opened its doors in 1997 and has been dedicated to providing independent and assisted living care services designed to give residents a supportive, stimulating environment where they thrive in mind, body and spirit. Both Marcia Hellmer, executive director, and Lori Mueller, care services manhere is the new leadership team at Lake View Place: Peggy Freund, Lori Muelager, joined the community in Pictured ler and Marcia Hellmer. 2015 from Lutheran Homes while Peggy Freund, commuthe nearly 100,000 providers listed on nity relations manager, preceded them senioradvisor.com, fewer than 1 percent in 2014. were recognized with this award. “It’s our privilege to be a resource for “The senioradvisor.com award is seniors and their families,” said Freund. meaningful to us as it demonstrates how “Every day we strive to enrich the lives we enrich the lives of seniors each and of our residents.” every day,” said Hellmer. “We are exLake View Place is now an Enlivant tremely proud to have Lake View Place community, which owns and operates in the top 1 percent of assisted living several hundred senior living communicommunities in North America. Each ties across 19 states. A description of all positive experience that our residents Enlivant communities can be found at and their families share on SeniorAdviEnlivant.com. Enlivant’s employees are sor.com is a testament to the commitpassionate about their individual roles ment of our employees. We know that at a company that places a premium on happy residents and happy families are a culture and values teamwork. key to the success of this community.” Recently, Lake View Place was honLake View Place is embarking on ored with a 2016 Best of Senior Living renovations and enhancements in 2016 Award from senioradvisor.com, the largthat will create a refreshing, appealing est ratings and reviews site for senior environment for residents in both indecare and services in North America. Of pendent and assisted living.
TRINITY BAPTIST
CHURCH
Embracing the truth of orthodoxy as presented in Scripture
400 E Johnson St. Fond du Lac, WI 920.922.9044 | http://trinityfdl.net/ Sunday AM 8:45 & 10:00 | Sunday PM 6:30 Wednesday PM 6:30 AWANA & Adult Bible Study 7:00pm WI-5001974479
Church of Peace United Church of Christ 158 S Military Rd • Fond Du Lac, WI 54935 920.921.8215 • churchofpeaceucc@att.net www.uccchurchofpeace.org
120 Sheboygan Street, Fond du Lac Church Office: 920-921-8605 www.salemchurch.com Rev. Bill Beaton, Pastor
WORSHIP SERVICE TIME: 8:45 A.M. ON SUNDAYS
WI-5001974367
Find us on facebook
Salem Worship Times Saturday: 5:00 p.m. Sunday: 9:00 a.m. (Nursery Available) Wednesday: 12:05 p.m. Sunday School for All Ages (September thru May) 10:30 a.m. (Nursery Available)
Children’s Ministries + Youth Activities + Young Adult Fellowship + Family Activities Bible Studies + Heartfelt and Challenging Worship + Lively Music
Open hearts. Open minds. Open doors. WI-5001974343
Worship services at Church of Peace are family-friendly and we offer a vibrant Christian Education program for all ages. The church family is glad to support the many activities of our junior and senior high youth. Our congregation is blessed with a large building which we use to host a broad range of community organizations. Our main worship time is 8:45 a.m. on Sunday mornings. This is followed by a social hour and at 10:00, the children's education hour begins. Other occasional services are held and often scheduled on a seasonal basis.
C7
The people of The United Methodist Church™
Progress Woodlands Senior Park celebrates 15 years C8
February 17, 2016
Woodlands Senior Park
2005 adding a third CBRF.
It’s hard to believe that 15 years has gone by since Woodlands Senior Park has opened its doors on the east side of Fond du Lac.
The locally owned and operated business now offers 84 comfortable CBRF suites and 26 roomy RCAC apartments that are situated on 30 beautifully landscaped and wooded acres. It is a site that must be seen to be fully appreciated.
The assisted living business was originally started with one communitybased residential facility in 2001 with a capacity of 28 residents. After experiencing rapid success, the local owners purchased additional adjacent property and expanded with a second CBRF and a Residential Care Apartment Complex in 2003. The growth and success continued and drove a second expansion in
In 2006, Fond du Lac County’s Natural Beauty Council selected Woodlands Senior Park for its Beautification award. And since that time the facilities and grounds have been developed into something even better. A little help from Mother Nature doesn’t hurt either.
Section C • Community & Services
The grounds are home to a variety of wildlife that roam freely through the yard, most notably whitetail deer and turkeys providing daily viewing pleasure. The large pond that is the home to the resident pair of swans, ‘Doc and ‘Myrt’ is also visited daily by ducks, geese, herons and a variety of other birds. On the inside, residents enjoy daily activities, home-cooked meals and frequent entertainment while under the watchful eye of skilled staff. Nurses are available every day of the week to provide professional nursing care, a
service not found in the average facility. All spacious resident rooms include a private restroom, Wi-Fi service, TV connection and a view. Operations at Woodlands Senior Park are managed by the original family that created the business with “family values” in mind. The initial goal of the business was and is to provide a high level of care in a home-like setting at an affordable price for seniors to enjoy their golden years. Of course, this goal could not be achieved without the help of an excellent staff. Woodlands Senior Park is located at 77 Wisconsin American Drive, in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920922-8770 or visit woodlandsseniorpark. com.
Fond du Lac County Sherriff’s Office departments report on 2015 Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office
The Jail Division conducted 3,402 bookings into the County Jail, resulting in the average daily population of 288 residents. The Fond du Lac County Jail continues to be one of only five jails in the state to be medically certified. The medical staff personally assesses approximately 40 inmates a day, and nurses are available daily. The psychologist also will see residents with acute mental health needs, approximately 32 hours a week. Fond du Lac County is fortunate to be one of only 13 Juvenile Detention Facilities. The increased number of out-of-county juveniles placed in the fa-
cility continues to be a revenue stream for the County. The dedicated deputies maintain safety and security for themselves and the public and practice respect, fairness and compassion. There have been 11 new correctional deputies hired to replace retirements and patrol promotions. The Support Staff of the Sheriff’s Office and Jail are the individuals behind the scenes that serve an invaluable role organizing the workloads generated by the various divisions. Computers and technology enables the Support Staff to access deputy’s reports coordinating with supervisors, detectives or the District Attorney’s Office.
The Civil Process Division served 1,600 papers (subpoenas, summons, divorce, child support), 45 Replevins (seizing property or vehicles), 143 evictions, 146 Sheriff Sales of property and 85 restraining orders. The Sheriff Benevolent Association continued to be involved in fundraising events (chili cook off, brat fry, Fond du Fest and Fondy Fusion). The principal purpose of the Benevolent is to enhance the general welfare of the community and promote the continuing growth and overall health. One of the goals of the Benevolent is establishing a local benevolent scholarship. The Board of Directors of the Sheriff’s Benevolent
is Eric Halbach, Paul Rottscholl, Jim Borgen, Donna Whitty and Karla Lockwood. The three school districts in the county continue to be served by the Sheriff’s Office with the dedicated assigned School Resource Deputies. The main objective is to provide safety and security, ensure a safe learning environment and create good will. The Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office is located at 180 S. Macy St., in Fond du Lac. For non-emergency matters, call 920-929-3390. For administrative matters, call 920-929-3370. For more information, visit fdlsheriff.com.
Service with Sincerity Trust • Compassion • Kindness • Care Every Step of the Way
Paul Dercks, Pre-Planning Specialist
Vicky Berg, Office Manager
Roger Lobombard, Funeral Assistant
3 Beautiful Facilities with 24 Hour Nursing Care
Afforable Living with Priceless Views!
Scott Wittchow, Funeral Assistant
Rueben Ruch, Funeral Assistant
Don Kurki, Funeral Director
Call or stop in today for your personal tour.
Warmest Regards, Christopher Kurki, Funeral Assistant
Don and Barb Kurki, owners Dave Olson, Funeral Assistant
WI-5001964462
Kurki-Mach Funeral Chapel Crematory &
31 East Division Street, Fond du Lac | Don Kurki • Funeral Director • 921-4420
The SeniorAdvisor.com award is meaningful to us as it demonstrates how we enrich the lives of seniors each and every day,” Marcia Hellmer Executive Director. “We are extremely proud to have Lake View Place in the top one percent of assisted living communities in North America. Each positive experience that our residents and their families share on SeniorAdvisor.com is a testament to the commitment of our employees who serve our residents.
Lake View Place Senior Living WI-5001973989
517 Luco Rd, Fond du Lac, WI 54935 (855) 784-8167 (920)926-1100
www.enlivant.com
SUITE COMES WITH: • Private Bathroom • Emergency Call System • Temperature Control • Cable TV & Telephone Hookups • Fire & Smoke Alarm • Generator Supported Outlets • Great Outdoors Views
AMENITIES OFFERED: • On-Site Registered Nurse, Four Licensed Practical Nurses • 24/7 Certified Nursing Care • Dietary Manager • Quality Homemade Meals & Snacks • Wi-Fi Connection
• Activity Manager Maintaining Activities And Outings Such As Bingo, Mass & Live Entertainment. • Weekly Beauty Shop/Barber Shop In Our Hair Salon • Libraries with Computers
77 Wisconsin American Dr., Fond du Lac, WI (near the Aurora Clinic)
WI-5001971417
Lake View Place Wins 2016 Best of Assisted Living Awards from SeniorAdvisor.com
2016
Progress Section D: Community & Arts
February 17, 2016 A Supplement to Action Advertiser
St. Vincent de Paul supports
poverty relief, completes expansion St. Vincent de Paul Society
St. Vincent de Paul had a fantastic year, in which 95 percent of the revenue generated was spent on poverty relief efforts right here in Fond du Lac County. St. Vincent de Paul is a volunteerbased organization, and in 2015, more than 150 volunteers logged an average of 1,730 volunteer hours per month at the thrift store. The Board of Directors is composed entirely of professionals who ST. VINCENT DE PAUL continued on page D4
Life Enforcement takes care of the community, feeds families Life Enforcement
2015 was an incredible year for Life Enforcement. The organization set its sights on "Taking Care Of" the Fond du Lac community by flooding it with Random Acts of Kindness and putting smiles on everyone's faces. Founded by FDL Police Officer Keywon Brown and run by its many volunteers, Life Enforcement has had an impact on Fond du Lac. More than 2,000 families go to food pantries to feed themselves weekly. So, to bring awareness, in January, Life Enforcement took a coach bus to three grocery stores and for two hours straight, paid up to $50 worth of randomly selected people's groceries. Later, when Life Enforcement heard that
Sandy Hardie leads Sky, one of the horses at Mahala’s Hope.
Mahala’s Hope Volunteers and staff gather in the 12,000-square-foot new addition to St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store. This space gives the volunteers and staff more opportunities to be creative with displaying donated articles.
Dennis Barber had lost his arm in an accident and needed his porch redone to enable him to enter his home safely, the organization launched into action. It teamed up with Wirtz Construction and Thrivent Financial to rebuild his stairs and porch, free of charge for him. During the summer, Life Enforcement held a Walleye Weekend "Fed Up with Child Hunger" Food Drive and collected more than 2,500 pounds of food for local pantries. Also, for Christmas, Life Enforcement held its Feed 100 Friends and Family Christmas Dinner on Dec. 23, which hosted 150 children and their families. In addition, each child received a gift. The organization also bought thousands of dollars of groceries and adopted many families in need. Many people from the community have reached out, saying that their work has inspired or blessed them. Those who have heard of our random acts, have told stories of paying it forward themselves, or being recipients of said generosity. Organizations such as Thrivent Financial, Culver’s, Casa del Tequila, Domino's, FDL
Fire Department, Hoppers, Kiwanis Club, Holiday Automotive, Uecker Witt, Savannah's Pay it Forward Foundation, Kreative Kraftwerks, the Rosenfeldts, Target, Boys & Girls Club, Festival Foods, ASTOP, KFIZ and our incredible volunteers are responsible for our successes. For more information or to volunteer visit, lifeenforcement.com or find them on Facebook.
Schreiner’s Restaurant
approached by television shows in 2015 Schreiner’s Restaurant
Schreiner’s Restaurant hosted production teams from two popular Wisconsin PBS television series during 2015. In April, Schreiner’s Manager Nathan Haupt received a call asking if “Wisconsin Foodie” host Kyle Cherek could visit later that week to tape an episode for an upcoming broadcast. The answer, of course, was “yes,” and taping occurred within a few days. Eight hours of film was recorded to produce a 12-minute segment focusing on Schreiner’s famous breakfasts. Viewers were given a behind-the-scenes look at Schreiner’s preparation and cooking areas, learning some of the restaurant’s storied history. Cherek sampled menu items, raving about the cinnamon rolls.
INSIDE:
COMMUNITY Non Profits Boys & Girls Club Broken Bread Food Program Charity Club Fond du Lac Area Women's Fund Fondy Food Pantry FREE Spirit Riders Inc. Life Enforcement
While enjoying breakfast at Schreiner’s counter, Kyle Cherek (second from right), host of “Wisconsin Foodie,” interviews Schreiner’s President Paul Cunningham (far right), as a production crew films a Foodie episode.
Initially airing on April 16, 2015, the show has been replayed several times. Each time, an influx of guests from around the state visit Fond du Lac to enjoy a taste of what has made Schreiner’s famous, introducing themselves to management and staff. The phenomenon has been referred to as “The Foodie Bump.” The complete “Wisconsin Foodie” episode can be viewed at fdlchowder.com.
Salvation Army St. Vincent de Paul United Way Dining/Entertainment 521 Pub & Grub Domino's Pizza Schreiner's Restaurant Tour the Town
Fitness/Recreation Fond du Lac YMCA Golf Club at Camelot TNT Fitness Results EDEN Baumhardt Sand & Gravel
In May, owner Paul Cunningham was contacted by the production team from “Around the Corner with John McGivern,” as part of the planning for an episode about the Fond du Lac area and wanted to include Schreiner’s. Again the answer was a resounding “yes.” That episode aired on Jan. 7, 2016, featuring various local businesses and tourist destinations, along with Fond du SCHREINER'S continued on page D3
Holyland Goebel Builders, LLC Goebel Roofing & Siding NORTH FOND DU LAC Create Salon & Spa WAUPUN Thrivent Financial
achieves expansion in all aspects Mahala’s Hope
Imagine someone you know is struggling with substance abuse and trauma, how might their recovery be different in a place where their trauma is understood, recognized and responded to. Now imagine a place that transforms lives through nature-based healing programs of recovery. That is Mahala’s Hope. Mahala’s Hope plays an active role in providing a much-needed treatment option for those who have completed primary treatment and want a unique and innovative approach to their continued recovery. Utilizing equine experiential learning, nature and education, the organization provides trauma sensitive treatment, which can create a reparative experience for the participant. For Mahala’s Hope, each year has been filled with exciting and new opportunities in which we have worked with groups in order to continue the education, training and recovery for many groups and individuals. In its 2014-15 year, Mahala’s Hope achieved several things: • Two additional staff have been hired, but the organization is still looking to hire more, including a Recovery Coach • Re-designed its website • Obtained a permanent site for a recovery residence and an equine facility in Eden • Expanded board and committee membership • Provided equine learning and women’s recovery programs for a variety of community groups and individuals in the Fond du Lac, Green Lake and Waushara County areas • Partnered with Marian University and Moraine Park Technical College students, who assisted with grant writing and marketing initiatives • Attended area heroin summits • Presented trauma informed care trainings and equine learning presentations throughout the state • Obtained further education and training for staff at crisis, trauma and substance abuse conferences throughout the state. This coming year brings new opportunities and excitement for Mahala’s Hope as it continues to assist those in the recovery process in addition to providing education and training. Mahala’s Hope is a 501 (c) 3 organization, and is located at W3619 Maple Road, in Eden. For more information, call Director Sandy Hardie at 920-904-0444 or visit mahalashope.com.
D2
February 17, 2016
Progress
YMCA adds programs for diabetes,
Parkinson’s, cancer survivors Fond du Lac Family YMCA
The Y continues to help strengthen individuals and families as well as offer support for those battling and surviving chronic disease. The following programs are either new in 2015 or planned for 2016. Diabetes Prevention Program The YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program helps those The Fond du Lac Family YMCA’s Parkinson’s Exercise Class works with instructors Martha Swift, AFAA Certified Personal Trainer, and Joel Mason, DPT. who have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, or those LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a proat high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, gram that helps adult cancer survivors adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles. reclaim their health and well-being folAlex Berg, Chronic Disease Prevenlowing a cancer diagnosis. Participating tion Coordinator, continues the efforts YMCAs create a welcoming community of the year-long program that began in in which survivors can improve their January 2015. In a classroom setting, a strength and physical fitness, diminish trained Lifestyle Coach helps participants severity of therapy side effects, develop learn to incorporate healthy eating and supportive relationships, and improve increase physical activity into their lives. their quality of life. The goals of the program are 7 percent The Y was accepted to become a weight loss and physical activity to 150 LIVESTRONG provider in 2015. To beminutes per week. The program includes come a program site, Ys go through a rig16 weekly sessions followed by eight orous yet transformational organizational monthly sessions. capacity-building process to help them Parkinson’s Exercise Class serve cancer survivors with knowledge, Research shows that exercise benefits empathy and skill. Staff who become cerpeople with Parkinson’s disease by slowtified instructors complete more than 16 ing down progression of the effects. The hours of training to ensuring that the proY’s Parkinson Exercise Class continues gram experience is effectively tailored to to be offered through a partnership with each participant. Agnesian HealthCare. For more information on these Participants have shown to improve programs, contact Alex Berg at aberg@ posture, strength, balance and walking fdlymca.org. ability as well as restore functional abilThe Fond du Lac Family YMCA is loity. They have seen improved cardiovascular health and non-motor symptoms cated at 90 W. Second St., in Fond du Lac. of Parkinson’s, including memory, sleep, For information, call 920-921-3330, visit mental health and attitude. fdlymca.org or find them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or Instagram. LIVESTRONG at the YMCA
Section D • Community & Arts
Membership changes made at Golf Club at Camelot, partner courses Golf Club at Camelot
In 2015, the Merkel family purchased Rock River Hills Golf Club in Horicon. Not only was the name changed to Horicon Hills Golf Club, but substantial changes to the course conditions and irrigation system and clubhouse took place as well. Recently, all three Merkel family courses (Camelot, West Bend Lakes GC and Horicon Hills) announced a new membership program. Simply stated: If one is a member at one course, one is a member at all three. For more information, call Laura at Camelot 920-269-4949, Jim and Horicon Hills 920-643-2000 or Chris at West Bend Lakes 262-675-9922. Camelot continues to be a location of choice for special events and weddings. Event Planner Specialist Sarah Duff has been added to the staff and brings years of experience and talent. She is available
to answer questions regarding special events. Jason Roos, a long-time manager at Camelot is now dedicated to golf outings and a stocked bar full of specialty craft beer. For league information, interested parties may contact Director of Golf Adam Haese. To advertise at Camelot’s annual events, call Director of Marketing and Advertising Laura Beaudoin. Events planned for 2016 include Valentine’s Day Dinner and Dance, Easter and Mother’s Day Brunch, Ladies Learn to Golf League, Couples League, discounted play cards, Job Fair and Bridal Faire. In addition, the course would like to offer congratulations to defending club champion Adam Hadrian and Match Play champion Adam Haese. For more information, call at the numbers listed above or visit golfcamelot.com.
TNT Fitness Results changes hands;
Toshner hands torch to Knuth TNT Fitness Results
TNT Fitness Results is known for the success students experience and the level of attention given to each individual. In an industry where many are treated as a number, TNT’s team of trainers has chosen to break that mold. In November, founder Derek Toshner sold TNT to Steven Knuth, who mentored under Toshner for several years. Knuth owns and operates an affiliated location in West Bend. He is passionate to see TNT begin its next chapter. Their team now totals seven instructors. Derek Toshner, Chad Kollmann, Melissa Schmidt, Jon Ehrhardt, David Knuth, Stephanie Bock and Steven Knuth all have the same passion to make your life just a little better. In 2015, the team has helped to raise nearly $20,000 of funds, most of which
has supported MS Run the U.S. Their other success stories include helping students like Mike Purdy qualify for the World Obstacle Course Race, or Amy VanDyke complete two segments of the MS Run the U.S., totaling over 364 miles. In 2016, the team at TNT is looking forward to matching and exceeding the 2015’s fundraising. With the support of TNT’s awesome students they plan to top $20,000 by a minimum of $3,000 to support America’s Heroes. They also have a started a campaign to see each student try something they have never done before, related to fitness or health of course! TNT Fond du Lac & TNT Adventure Obstacle Course, is located at W5374 Fond du Lac County B, Fond du Lac, and TNT West Bend is located at 2330 S. Main St., West Bend. TNT also has locations in Menasha and Brookfield. For more information, visit tntfitnessresults.com.
Domino’s Pizza
has change in ownership, remodel, staff advancements Domino's Pizza
Domino’s Pizza in Fond du Lac had a variety of happenings in 2015. The death of its owner Bill Graves brought new management as his widow Susan took over. Manager Sandy Ritchie earned a Rolex watch as part of a sales challenge. The store celebrated a record sales week and received a complete face lift after being closed for an unprecedented four days. The new look is clean, fresh and modern. Trainer Cassandra Ritchie was promoted to a trainer position
that takes her to 70 stores in four states. Randy Halberg, operating partner, retired after 20 years of service. Assistants Sara Lefeber and Brett Culver were promoted to general managers in Oshkosh and Appleton respectively. In 2015, the restaurant donated well over $7,000 through fundraisers. Finally, the store closed out its year with a five-star audit.
27 Hole Championship Course www.RollingMeadowsGolfCourse.com Complete Practice Area 28th Hole Bar and Grill Professional Staff to Serve You
920-929-3735 WI-5001961801
560 W Rolling Meadows Dr Fond du Lac, WI 54937
Progress
Section D • Community & Arts
February 17, 2016
Next generation poised to lead Goebel Roofing & Siding Goebel Roofing and Siding
Passing the business torch from one generation to the next can often be a challenge: Different management styles, ideas and personalities all come into play. When Goebel Roofing & Siding owners Bob and Carol Goebel decided the timing was right to shift the 35-year-old business to the capable hands of second generation family members, it was seamless. With the business’s core values as a strong foundation, nephew Pat Goebel, a long-time partner and employee of the company, became the principal owner in December 2015. He became partner of the business in 1997. Bob Goebel will remain on staff as a salesman and estimator while Pat transitions into the role of president. Carol
Goebel retired in December. Tina Ellingson, Pat’s fiancée, has taken over Carol’s position and will handle all office, financial and administrative duties and will serve as vice president and business operations manager. Long-time employee Gary Goebel will assume the position of lead foreman. “I’m honored to be able to provide Fond du Lac and surrounding areas with the same great craftsmanship, customer service and core business values that Bob and Carol have provided and built on the past 35 years,” said Pat Goebel. “I’m looking forward to helping this company grow and will work hard to move forward with new ideas and state of the art products, ensuring that Goebel Roofing & Siding is the continued leader in the roofing and
siding industry for many years to come.” Going forward, Goebel Roofing & Siding will have a slightly new look, but will remain the local leader in residential, farm and commercial asphalt and metal roofing as well as siding and repair projects. Serving Fond du Lac, Dodge, Calumet, Sheboygan, Washington and Winnebago counties, Goebel Roofing & Siding began as a small venture by Bob and Carol out of their home in 1980. It has since grown to eight employees, and a fleet of 15 vehicles, large equipment and trailers. In 2013, Goebel Roofing & Siding purchased the former St. Michaels Church Hall in Dotyville. This hall serves as their main office and warehouse. Goebel Roofing & Siding is located
Pictured from left are Bob and Carol Goebel, Pat Goebel and Tina Ellingson.
at N5727 Fond du Lac County W, in Dotyville. For more information, visit wisconsinroofing.com and facebook.com/ GoebelRoofingSidingInc.
Goebel Builders, LLC leverages crew
with 50 years of combined experience Goebel Builders, LLC
Goebel Builders, LLC had a great year, thanks to its customers and a crew. In 2015, the building company continued to build on its mission of quality craftsmanship, strong integrity and easy working relationships. Jim Goebel, owner/carpenter for 20 years, is proud of his team, which completed a heavy load of projects this past year while providing clients top-quality craftsmanship at a great value. “The amount of time we put in this year was record-setting and I really appreciate the dedication my crew has towards every project,” said Goebel. Goebel Builders has a crew of versatile carpenters with more than 50 years of combined experience. “With our crew of Brian Birschbach, Mike Schaefer, Zach Perry and myself, I feel really confident that we will continue to deliver great results,” said Goebel. “We like to say that Goebel Builders is a small company with big ideas and this group has proven that. These guys really work well together and manage to have a little fun, too.” Goebel Builders LLC are just that: Builders. Not salespeople. Goebel Builders is focused on designing and building the home that suites each family’s style and budget. “We also work hard on making sure
our projects are energy-efficient and continue to provide cost savings for our clients,” said Goebel. Crew members and owners regularly attend classes on efficiency, design trends and more. In addition to some great new homes and additions, Goebel Builders was pleased to participate in the Fall FDL Parade of Homes. “Visitors noted how well the home was built and how nice the layout flowed,” Jim said. “We were excited to share this project and want to again thank the homeowners.” Goebel Builders’ services include design, contracting, new homes, additions, garages, remodeling, light commercial and custom woodworking. They do all their own framing, siding and finish work as well. Established in 2007, the company has relationships with local subcontractors that share the same goals and positive attitude. Goebel Builders LLC is licensed and insured, as well as a member of the Home Builders Association of Fond du Lac & Dodge Counties. Goebel Builders LLC is located in St. Peter, just outside of Fond du Lac, and can be reached at 920-922-3631 or by email at goebelbuilders@charter.net. For more information, visit goebelbuilders. net or facebook.com/goebelbuilders.
Schreiner's continued from page D1
Lac’s winter pastime, ice fishing. The professional crews that filmed these two productions were easy to work with, organized, polite and friendly, making the filming process a pleasure for everyone. Additionally, Schreiner’s was featured in online and print media during 2015. The restaurant is proud to have been included in the TravelWisconsin.com list “Wisconsin Food that’s Worth the Wait,” and in the publication “Directory of Wisconsin’s Best Ma and Pa
Restaurants.” In its 78th year, Schreiner’s Restaurant and Bernie’s Pub are enjoying statewide recognition for their longevity and excellence in the industry, as they continue serving time-honored comfort food to modern-day visitors from Wisconsin and beyond. Schreiner’s Restaurant is located at 168 N. Pioneer Road, in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-922-0590 or visit fdlchowder.com. WI-5001973875
Serving Fond du Lac and surrounding areas since 1980 ROOFING & SIDING, INC.
WI-5001970522
Your local expert in asphalt & metal roofs, siding, & seamless gutters Farm • Residential • Commercial N5727 Cty. Rd. W, Mt. Calvary (Just 10 Min. East of FDL) (920) 322-9850 | www.wisconsinroofing.com
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CALL TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE!
D4
Progress
February 17, 2016
Tour the Town
United Way meets goals,
marks fourth anniversary, adds venues Tour the Town – Fond du Lac
September 2015 marked the fourth anniversary of the monthly event Tour the Town – Fond du Lac’s third Friday art walk. Regulars who have supported the art walk enjoy visiting the participating venues and meeting the host artists. Event coordinators are inspired by the consistent support by the community. While several established businesses and venues host artists each month, it is inspiring to see new businesses and venues become actively involved. ST. VINCENT DE PAUL continued from page D1
also act as volunteers. The contributions of volunteers are the heartbeat of St. Vincent de Paul and will continue to effectively assist the poor in our community, St. Vincent de Paul’s core mission. “We are an organization comprised of nearly all volunteers. This is why we are able to afford to help so many in need,” said St. Vincent de Paul President Bob Ramstack. “We enjoy working with our student volunteers,” adds Volunteer Coordinator Audrey Watry. “They always provide new energy to accomplish our mission.” St. Vincent de Paul has finished the 12,000-square-foot expansion; with 9,000 of it being used to warehouse donations, accommodate a growing volunteer staff and enhance St. Vincent de Paul’s ability to provide increased assistance to the poor. The remaining 3,000 square feet is being used for additional retail space. St. Vincent de Paul is the only
Section D • Community & Arts
sees new executive director
Tour the Town art walk welcomes the newest venues to host artists – Downtown Deli, Macy Place and Russtiques Antiques. This community art walk is nurtured by a group of art-minded volunteers with a passion to grow the awareness of arts in our community. Tour the Town Art Walk happens the third Friday of each month from 5 to 8 p.m. For more information about each month’s artists and venues, including maps and resources, visit tourthetownfdl.com or facebook.com/tourthetownfdl. non-profit organization in Fond du Lac County that conducts 200 home visits per month to provide assistance with vouchers for food, rent, utilities, clothing and furniture. In 2015, St. Vincent de Paul has been able to expand the home visit program to the Holyland. Additionally, St. Vincent de Paul has continued to expand poverty alleviation efforts in Fond du Lac through community partnerships with the Solutions Center, Care Inc., Fondy Food Pantry and Circle of Support. St. Vincent de Paul sells the “Vinny Card” that discounts all purchases by 5 percent, offers monthly sales on select items and gives a $5 birthday coupon. St. Vincent de Paul continues to offer daily pick-ups of appliance and furniture donations. St. Vincent de Paul’s thrift store is located at 330 N. Peters Ave., in Fond du Lac. Clients seeking assistance should call the Help Line at 920-922-3650. For more information, visit svdpfdl.org.
Fond du lac Area United Way
du Lac and surrounding communities
2015 marked the 68th year that the Fond du Lac Area United Way has impacted the community, working toward its goal of uniting individuals and organizations in a collaborative, costeffective effort to meet local human service needs.
throughout 2015.
By funding programs that address breaking cycles of poverty, supporting stability and independence, and improving health and wellness, the United Way provides opportunities for everyone to help build a supportive, healthy and educated community right here at home. In fact, 99 percent of the Fond du Lac Area United Way's revenue is spent in the Fond du Lac area every year.
Company earned the New Workplace
In January, The Fond du Lac Area United Way announced that they had met their campaign goal for the third year in a row. The funds were invested in 13 supportive services programs (key focus areas: childcare, homelessness, domestic violence, isolated seniors), eight health services programs (including dental care, addiction treatment, respite care, and affordable prescriptions), and seven education programs (such as adult and financial literacy, disaster relief planning, and early learning). Each program received financial support from $5,000 to $50,000 to help fund their services, which were projected to benefit 67,365 people in Fond
The United Way honored its volunteers at the annual Volunteer Recognition Luncheon in March. Sister Mary Mollison received the Volunteer of the Year Award, and Manowske Welding Campaign Award. This summer, Executive Director Tina Potter announced her retirement after a decade of service to the United Way and three decades of service to this community. Amber Kilawee, who has worked for the Fond du Lac Area United Way since 2007, was appointed as the new executive director in September. Also in September, the United Way kicked off its annual fundraising campaign at Fondue Fest with a goal of raising $756,000 to support and enhance the community. Thanks to the continued support from campaign pacesetters Brenner Tank and Society Insurance and the entire community, they are on track to meet that goal. The Fond du Lac Area United Way is located at 74 S. Main St., Suite 201, in Fond du Lac. For more information, call
HOLYLA A 920-921-7010 or visit fdlunitedway.org.
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Progress
Section D • Community & Arts
February 17, 2016
Fondy Food Pantry credits growth
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to volunteers, community support
Sharon Roznik On behalf of the Fondy Food Pantry
Fondy Food Pantry continues to grow as it serves an increasing number of people struggling with food insecurity. The all-volunteer pantry operates solely through its dedicated volunteers and a community that supports its mission to alleviate hunger. The voices of poverty are often silent, but close to 10 percent of the population in Fond du Lac County is living at or below poverty level, according to U.S. Census figures. Half the school students in North Fond du Lac and almost half in Fond du Lac are now categorized as economically disadvantaged. Each year, the pantry provides emergency food for more than 3,000 county residents. Families in need are identified through collaboration with Fond du Lac County Social Services, St. Vincent de Paul, ADVOCAP, and area churches and schools. In 2015, the pantry’s Board of Directors
added several new members and expanded the Food for Thought program, which now provides weekend food during the school year to more than 660 eligible students in Fond du Lac public schools. This past year, board members also have been immersed in strategic planning sessions as they look for ways to grow programs and partnerships. “The board continues to be inspired by the level of dedication and goodwill the community shows to those in need by the many donations of time, food and services,� said Board President Sarah Zimmerman. “We expect 2016 to be a year of greater need and will stay focused on how best to turn these donations into the best use of services to the neediest among us." Volunteers from all walks of life gather at the pantry to sort donated food or pack food boxes. The pantry’s Wednesday night group packs are so popular the sign-up schedule often runs into the following year. Throughout 2015, Fondy Food Pantry
Throughout the year many groups volunteer to help out at Fondy Food Pantry. A group of youth from Pilgrim United Church pack bags of food for low-income children. Front row, from left: Audrey Culpepper, Olivia Freiberg, Alyssa Peterson, Ava Neal, Hannah Smoody and Meagan Culpepper. Second row: Pam Rauls, Teri Skelton, Casey Skelton, Makenna Goetshe and Abby Gilgenbach.
continued to develop ways to reach out to the community by providing resources to Salvation Army, Broken Bread, Solutions Center’s four local shelters, Family Resource Center, Fond du Lac Boys & Girls Club, Habitat for Humanity and Red Cross. Fondy Food Pantry, an independent,
all volunteer non-profit organization, has
“We are excited about the new programs we will be supporting and we hope this inspires local agencies to create more programs that address the issues facing women and girls,� said Grants Committee Chair Laurice Snyder. This year, the Women’s Fund also published a book, “Women Who Inspire,� which tells the stories of diverse community contributions of 40 remarkable women, mostly from Fond du Lac, through tributes by family and friends. “We were touched by the outpouring
of love and respect for the women who inspired these tributes,� said 2015 Board President Ann Freund. “Brothers sponsored sisters; nieces and nephews sponsored aunts; groups sponsored retirees. The Women’s Fund is proud of this book, though which future generations can know, and be inspired by, these women.�
served the community since 1973. The Fondy Food Pantry is located at 51 W. Division St. For more information, call 920-322-0369, visit fondyfoodpantry.org or find them on Facebook.
Fond du Lac Area Women’s Fund awards $25,000 in grants, breaking organization records Fond du Lac Area Women’s Fund promotes positive change in the lives of Fond du Lac area women and girls through grants and education. In 2015, the organization awarded almost $25,000 in grants to Fond du Lac agencies, more than in any previous year. Proceeds of a first-ever fall participatory community-wide yoga event helped produce this result.
toward the benefit of women or girls, with emphasis given to those exploring the priorities of the Women’s Fund: Education, leadership, financial self-sufficiency, safety, dignity and freedom from violence. The Women’s Fund held its first-ever Grantee Workshop this year, providing local agencies the opportunity to learn and ask questions about the Women’s Fund grant process, which resulted in stronger grant applications. This year, grant requests were close to $80,000, including several new programs.
AND Grants were issued to programs geared
For more information about the Fond du Lac Area Women’s Fund, call 920-3228778 or visit fdlwomensfund.com.
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Progress
February 17, 2016
Classic Cut becomes Create Salon and Spa, transfers ownership Create Salon and Spa
Create Salon and Spa has been serving clients since the transfer of ownership on Nov. 1, 2015. Its new owner is Arin Stueber. The previous business, known as The Classic Cut, has been in existence since 1986 and has grown tremendously in the past 29 years. The Classic Cut, operated by Katie Hornung, originally started with one stylist and was located in a small remodeled home. That building was remodeled twice before the current structure was built in 1996.
Create Salon and Spa, as it is known today, has grown to host six stylists, 12 booth renters, two massage therapists, two nail techs and a permanent cosmetologist. The business started in hair treatment and has expanded into nails, make-up, tanning, and spa services to accommodate the ever-changing needs of clients. Create Salon and Spa is located at 432 Prospect Ave., North Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-922-3325 or visit createsalonandspa.com.
521 Pub & Grub, of Brownsville,
makes most of first full year in business 521 Pub & Grub
The 521 Pub & Grub opened in October 2014 in Brownsville, with a focus on bringing a different dining experience to the area. Great progress has been made in introducing fresh, made-to-order sandwiches and entrées, as well as many of America’s finest craft beers. Offering thin crust pizza, hardwood smoked BBQ, Italian-style sandwiches, great burgers, steaks, Friday fish fry and almost-famous fresh-cut fries, the 521 has worked hard to achieve its goal. “Everything we do is made in house and also made to order,” said owner Stewart Locke, “from our ranch dressing and mozzarella sticks to our ground fresh burgers and Italian beef sandwiches. It’s hard work, but the product we produce is second to none.” After acquiring an old building with a very rich history of restaurants before, there were many challenges to overcome and improvements to be made. Owners
updated the kitchen with modern and efficient equipment and performed an overhaul of the gas delivery system. The bar area was given a facelift and the tapping system was replaced to accommodate a variety of craft beers. The refrigeration was replaced to guarantee a consistent temperature for beer delivery to the taps. They also renovated the dining area and gave it a more contemporary look. “We’ve had to overcome the stereotypes of the businesses before while respecting the rich history and adapting to local needs,” said Locke. In July 2015, the restaurant purchased a custom hardwood smoker, and on Friday nights, they’ve been offering BBQ including prime beef brisket, Memphis style baby back ribs, Carolina pulled pork and salmon. 521 Pub & Grub is located at 521 Main St. in Brownsville. For more information, call 920-583-2000 or visit 521pubgrub.com.
Leonard expands Thrivent Financial practice in Waupun Jonathan Leonard
Thrivent Financial associate Jonathan Leonard has had a banner year. He’s expanded his Waupun practice by serving more members, hiring more staff and receiving national accolades for excellence. “I’m honored to service my clients locally, with my home base right here in downtown Waupun,” Leonard said. “My members know they have a trusted and faithful financial guide who helps them realize their dreams.” To deliver exceptional customer experiences, Leonard has hired additional staff members who share his commitment to developing meaningful relationships. His success serving his members in Dodge and Fond du Lac counties, and their willingness to recommend him to their friends and loved ones, led to Leonard being named East Wisconsin Upper Peninsula Michigan regional new financial representative of the year. He has also been nationally recognized for outstanding growth and service. Leonard says he has come to learn that many people in the area have products, but they don’t have a plan.
“We are so thankful that we attended the dinner presentation with Thrivent Financial. The dinner was delicious, but the most important part was meeting Jonathan and finding out all the opportunities and benefits that were available for us,” said Thrivent members Larry and Judy Westra. “Jonathan is the only person that we met that we felt truly cared for us as a family. He has spent hours helping us change our investments, as we have made a lot of bad investment choices. We truly feel that we are finally in good hands and have someone we can trust.” Many of Leonard’s members have led Thrivent Action Teams as a way to be generous to the causes they care about. Thrivent Action Teams are a benefit of membership and are led by Thrivent members who identify and want to meet an immediate community need. It’s an easy and fun way for them to bring their family and friends together to help strengthen their churches and communities. Jonathan Leonard is located at 6 Fond du Lac St., in Waupun. For more information, call 920-392-6846 or visit facebook. com/jonathan.leonard.thrivent.
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Section D • Community & Arts
NorthWinds Supper Club opens as Junk Post NorthWinds Junk Post
Salvaging, recycling and repurposing have always been in the hearts and souls of Bob and Kate Guelig, owners of NorthWinds Supper Club in Eden, and this new venture showcases it front and center. After a turn of events, they made the decision to close the restaurant to expand the growing interest in a gift, wine and fudge shop that was established within the restaurant a couple of years ago. With its unique vintage décor salvaged from demolitions sites and dumpster finds, NorthWinds was prime for the transition to a complete retail shop now call NorthWinds Junk Post. Bob’s main business, Guelig’s Waste Removal and Demolition, contributes the bulk of vintage finds, rusty relics and unique old junk found scattered throughout the entire building. Kate, with a back-
ground in interior design, gives them new purpose and life in interesting displays. With the interest and desire for vintage goods growing, they are excited to be taking this next step in offering more retro, vintage, rusty antiques and odd finds for sale along with the gifts, wine and fudge. The continued expansion into more vintage, upcycled items, painted furniture, collectibles and architectural items are on the plan for this spring. The Gueligs also plan on broadening the wine selection, adding a party room for catered-in functions and utilizing the grounds for outdoor patio events in the summer and fall. NorthWinds Junk Post is located at 321 Fond du Lac Ave., Eden. For more information, call 920-477-3220 or visit northwindseden.com or Facebook.com/ NorthWindsDiningEden.
Fond du Lac Area Foundation
celebrates milestone, awards $1 million in grants in 2015
Fond du Lac Area Foundation
In 2015, the Fond du Lac Area Foundation celebrated its 40th year in existence. What started as a dream by a forwardthinking philanthropic banker has now evolved into a thriving and growing community foundation. The Foundation started out of founding fathers Carl Tonjes’ home, with one $350 grant awarded that first year. The Foundation has now evolved into an important organization that annually distributes more than $1,000,000 back to the Fond du Lac Community in the form of grants. Unlike many community foundations in the country that have mostly non-endowed funds, more than 95 percent of the Fond du Lac Area Foundation’s funds are endowed, which means that every year, under normal market circumstances, the amount of money that will be reinvested back into the community will continue to grow. In 2015, the Foundation awarded grants totaling more than $1,000,000 and was able to provide more than $170,000 in scholarships to more than 170 local students. Throughout the years, the Fond du Lac Area Foundation has awarded more than 6,500 grants and over $15 million dollars in the form of grants to the community. The Fond du Lac Area Foundation currently has 314 component funds. Each of
these funds were started by a donor with a charitable dream. Quick facts about the foundation: Founded in 1975, the Fond du Lac Area Foundation began with one fund of $50,000. The Foundation received 14 new funds in 2015. The Foundation acts in many capacities. In addition to making grants to area nonprofit organizations, the Foundation leads initiatives, convenes groups of organizations to address community issues, advocates for change, helps to leverage other sources of funding, and provides expertise and assistance to area organizations. The Fond du Lac Area Foundation is governed by an 11-member volunteer board of directors who each are eligible to serve three three-year terms. The Fond du Lac Area Foundation is recognized as a certified community foundation for having organizational and financial practices that are in accordance with the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations. Executive Director Sandi Roehrig was recently been asked to review and amend the National Standards for all Community Foundations. The Fond du Lac Area Foundation is located at 384 N. Main St., Suite 4, in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-921-2215 or visit fdlareafoundation.com.
Broken Bread Food Program
begins 25th year of service Broken Bread Food Program
St. Paul’s Cathedral’s Broken Bread Food Program will begin its 25th year of serving the greater Fond du Lac community. Broken Bread is a mission of St. Paul’s Cathedral and an excellent example of where “faith and service meet.” In honor of Broken Bread’s silver anniversary, they are searching for 25 businesses or organizations to support two 2016 goals: To provide cereal twice a month to all guest families and to provide at least three protein related food choices each week (meat, fish, peanut butter, legumes, cheese, milk, egg). Broken Bread serves an average of 305 families each week with 80 percent perishable foods, 20 percent non-perishable foods and a sit-down meal. Of the 900 to more than 1,000 clients served each week, 350 to 400 are children. In 2015, Broken Bread received funds from The Stone Foundation. Without financial and food support, they could not continue to provide services on a weekly basis. Other partnerships include but are not limited to: Faro’s, Bagelmeister, Taycheedah Prison, St. Agnes Hospital and IT
department, Save-A- Lot, Festival Foods, Piggly Wiggly, Pick ‘n Save Stores, KwikTrip, Walgreens, Little Farmer, Land and Water Conservation Department, Seneca Foods, Walleye Weekend, Pat’s Antiques, Saavy Boutique, Parkridge Organics, Charity Club, Sigma, Women of Steel, Moraine Park Technical College, St. Mary Springs, Marian University, UW-Fond du Lac, St. Lawrence University, Fond du Lac/North Fond du Lac Schools and Forward Services. In October 2015, seventh-graders at Bessie Allen Middle School adopted Broken Bread. Students and teachers teamed up to develop special monthly events supporting Broken Bread. For eight months, Broken Bread will share its space with Loaves and Fishes while construction takes place at Church of Peace. Loaves and Fishes provides a sit-down meal and carry-out meals on Mondays and Wednesdays each week. Another example of where faith and service meet. For more information or to donate, call Terry Hansen-Beno at 920-904-7025 or email thansenbeno@charter.net.
Progress
Fond du Lac Area Foundation spearheads Boys & Girls Club expansion
Free SPIRIT Riders Inc.
Boys & Girls Club of Fond du Lac
Free SPIRIT Riders Inc.
In 2015, the Boys & Girls Club of Fond du Lac set forth on a mission: To expand program services to meet the afterschool programming needs for kids in Fond du Lac. Dating back to 2007, the Boys & Girls Club needed to cap enrollment in afterschool and summer programs due to limited physical space. “In order to honor our vision and mission, we must be available to all young people who need us,” said Dan Hebel, executive director of the Boys & Girls Club. “Physical space has limited us for too long, so we decided to seek further support to help us provide programs to everyone who needs us.” Through many strategic discussions, the All Kids Initiative was born. This Initiative sought five-year funding commitments from local donors to raise $120,000 per year for the next five school years, totaling $600,000 overall. The $120,000 annually covers all direct costs related to operating the five new afterschool programs with FDL public schools. Partnering with Fond du Lac schools saves on costs that would otherwise be needed to build new facilities for the Club. In September 2015, the Club reached its $600,000 goal, cementing new programs available to children and the elimination of waiting lists for the foreseeable future. At the forefront of the fundraising was a gift provided by the Fond du Lac Area Foundation. Regularly praised for providing ongoing grant support to service programs
Interaction with horses is a powerful means for persons with challenges to improve their physical abilities, heighten their social skills, build self-confidence and simply have fun. Free SPIRIT (Special People In Riding Therapy) Riders, Inc. is a program grounded in the belief that equine activity is the avenue toward living a life of promise, a belief that a nurturing and challenging environment can prepare a person for whatever lies in the future. It is the organization’s hope to create a suitable environment for participants, according to their individual gifts, and to challenge them to be the best that they can be. Horses are the tools they use to achieve a variety of goals including physical, mental, social, educational and behavioral. During 2015, Free SPIRIT Riders provided 1,120 hours of services to 90 individuals with the help of 85 volunteers who gave 8,419 hours of services with the help of 15 horses. Free SPIRIT Riders offers nationally certified instructors, specially trained volunteers and specifically trained horses. The group also recently began a campaign to raise funds to insulate the indoor
Pictured back row, from left: Tom Herre, FDL Area Foundation board member; Carol Hyland, FDL Area Foundation board member; Sandi Roehrig, executive director, FDL Area Foundation; Dan Hebel, CEO, Boys & Girls Club of Fond du Lac; Stacey Buchholz, principal, Parkside Elementary; Katrina Gesell, Parkside Afterschool Program Coordinator. Front row, Club members: Zeniya Johnson, Samantha Osorio, Walter Ruiz, Miguel Navarro and Chatxu Yang.
and organizations in Fond du Lac, the Foundation rarely gives impact gifts of this magnitude. “Our community is blessed to have a strong Boys & Girls Club committed to providing services that empower hundreds of young people in our community to reach their full potential,” said Sandi Roehrig, executive director of the Fond du Lac Area Foundation. “Our grant dollars are an investment in those children who are the future of our community.” With a gift of $125,000 over five years, the Foundation became the lead donor an All Kids Initiative that featured many other local businesses and foundations. The Boys & Girls Club of Fond du Lac is located at 90 W. Second St., in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-924-0530 or visit kidsclubfdl.org.
Charity Club gives record amount to community on 115th anniversary
Charity Club
Founded in 1900, Charity Club is the oldest service organization in Fond du Lac County. The early group of 34 women provided assistance to the community including 16,000 bottles of milk for children annually. The club’s mission is to help the children of our community with our primary emphasis on supplying milk to needy children and families. Today, the club is a group of 30 women who are passionate about helping those less fortunate in our community. This year, from the Charity Club Ball alone, the club was able to give back a record high, an estimated $70,000 to the community. Sixty percent of those funds raised will provide milk for the Fond du Lac area children and purchase formula for charities such as Advocap (Head Start), Family Resource Center and Fondy Food Pantry. The remaining 40 percent supports
organizations such as Boys and Girls Club of Fond du Lac, Solutions Center and New Beginnings. Beyond donations, the club takes on special projects every year. It is currently working to improve the children’s room in the basement at the Solutions Center, which is Fond du Lac’s only domestic abuse and homeless shelter. “We are so thankful for how the Club has evolved over the years,” said Trisha Krug, president of the club. “Thanks to social media, the community is more aware of our mission and has shown great support to Charity Club. The need in our community is growing, but so are our numbers and it is inspiring to know we are able to serve the underprivileged children of Fond du Lac.” For more information on the Charity Club, visit fdlcharityclub.org or find them on Facebook.
Salvation Army
drives to support those in need Salvation Army founder William Booth’s one-word directive steers the Fond du Lac Corps. Capts. Steven and Telinda Wilson marked The Salvation Army’s 125th anniversary in Fond du Lac with inspired new relationships and opportunity to serve others more effectively. Three hundred forty food pantry clients responded to our survey, identifying 32 categories of additional resources needed to increase stability. In conjunction with Marian University, MPTC and the UW Extension, the ANSWERS Team formed to deliver the resources in relevant ways. Inspired, fully charged conversation between community experts and pantry clients already brings health screenings, nutritional information, education opportunities and employment information to the panty, creating relationships that strengthen our local economy. In September, The Salvation Army gym transformed into an archery range for grades three through 12. Certified corps staff and soldiers instructed this first session. In December, President Barack Obama’s Advisory Council for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships heard the story of our
first Pathway of Hope graduate: Emily’s family was homeless when they were referred to us. Emily asked for help creating better circumstances for her family and became our first Pathway of Hope client. Emily set goals; we helped, coached, guided, and celebrated with her. In less than two weeks, Emily’s family moved into an apartment, she had a full time job and childcare in a month. Then, Emily discovered she was pregnant. The baby came early, weighed only 2 pounds and needed special care from Milwaukee Children’s Hospital. Emily left her job to travel back and forth to nurse her little newborn. We rallied care for her four children at home and helped offset living expenses. Emily kept going, we kept cheering her on and our community embraced her. Today, the family is thriving. “I was at the point in life where I felt like giving up,” said Emily. “Pathway of Hope helped me know I can overcome any obstacle life throws my way.” Emily understands we all care. So do her children. One wrote: “Thank you for what you did for my family.” The Salvation Army of Fond du Lac County is located at 237 N. Macy St., in Fond du Lac. For more information, call 920-923-8220 or find them on Facebook.
February 17, 2016
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provides 1,120 hours of service in 2015 arena, based the demand for increased services. Until now, the group has only offered services from May through October but hopes to have the indoor arena insulated by the end of 2016. Elizabeth Cropper demonstrates her abilThe proity to maintain her balance, posture and grams at Free coordination while sitting on a horse during a 2016 therapeutic horsemanship SPIRIT Ridclass at Free SPIRIT Riders. ers emphasize ability, not disability, and volunteers are the backbone of their services. Free SPIRIT Riders, Inc. is a Premier Accredited Center affiliated with the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, International (PATH Int.). Free SPIRIT Riders is located at W3950 State 23, in Fond du Lac. For information, call 920-924-9900 or visit freespiritriders.org.
Family Resource Center sees success with support programs
Family Resource Center
With winter nipping at our noses and children bundling up for a cold Wisconsin winter, the Family Resource Center is ‘bundling up’ a year with many changes to its programs. This year alone, the center has supported more than 700 families with pregnancy and parenting services. With the help of community donors, the center also has been able to provide more than 37,000 diapers and 315 cans of formula to families in Fond du Lac County. Some programs that saw success in 2015 were: The SOAR (Support, Observe, Achieve & Read) Program, which references an evidence-based curriculum and is a voluntary and free program for parents with children under 5 or expectant mothers. A parent is a child’s first and most important teacher. SOAR can help build a strong foundation for the child’s future. SOAR includes personal visits in-home or at the center with a Parent Educator. In these visits, parents receive information about child development, ageappropriate activities, free books and more. The Pregnancy and Parenting Support Program, which offers free and confidential pregnancy testing, assistance with diapers, formula and children’s clothing. The program also offers one-on-one parenting sessions, group parenting sessions at community based agencies, programming designed especially for teenage parents,
Pictured from left are Michelle Morris, SOAR parent educator; Natasha Frye, Family Resource Center executive director, and Kelley Baker, Family Resource Center administrative assistant and Child Passenger Safety technician.
classes and workshops on topics such as infant massage, positive parenting, nurturing and temperament of a child and our newest addition: Certified Lactation Counseling. This counseling provides breasting feeding support and education for all interested or struggling moms. The Certified Child Passenger Safety Program allows onsite technician to explain installation of car seat and booster seat procedures to parents. Car seats and booster seats are available for the community based on grant dollars and referrals. The Family Resource Center is located at 104 S. Main St., Suite 203. For more information, call 920-923-4110 or visit fdlfrc.org.
St. Vincent de Paul
• Weekly Specials • Daily Furniture pickups (M-F) • Friendly customer service • Year round Christmas Dept • Retired, need service hours? We volunteers • Drive up donations - remain in your car
330 N. Peters Ave. • Fond du Lac • 920-322-9505 Store Hours • M-F 9:30am-6:00pm • Sat 9:30am-5:00pm Donation Hours • M-F 9:30am-5:30pm • Sat 9:30am-3:30pm All proceeds benefit those in Fond du Lac County
WI-5001966588
Section D • Community & Arts
D8
Progress
February 17, 2016
Baumhardt Sand & Gravel recounts acquisitions, growth Baumhardt Sand & Gravel
In September 2013, Baumhardt Sand & Gravel and J & J Baumhardt Trucking purchased the former Schiek’s Camping Center property at 406 E. Main St., Eden. In April 2014, Baumhardt moved its offices and expanded its repair shop to that property. This move tripled the office space and doubled the shop and yard space, allowing the company to expand its estimating department and consolidate general office and estimating under one roof.
Baumhardt Sand & Gravel was established in 1948 as a full-service sand and gravel supplies and excavating company. It provides excavating, grading and site utilities for industrial, highway, agricultural and residential construction; electronic estimating of customer-engineered plans as well as everyday estimating of small-scale construction, restoration and material supplying for driveways, parking lots and farm yards; crushing and recycling of concrete and asphalt pavement. Its offices and shops are located in
Eden, while aggregate and recycling sites are located on both the east and west sides of Fond du Lac. J & J Baumhardt Trucking was established in 1979 and provides state-wide and interstate dump truck (bulk) service for commercial, industrial and highway construction. They also provide flatbed, lowboy and oversize service of construction equipment and oversize loads up to 150,000 pounds. It has terminals in Eden and Plover. J & J Baumhardt Aggregates was established in 1990 and is a supplier of
Section D • Community & Arts
aggregates for all types of construction, specializing in bedding sand for the agricultural market and customer screening of sand. In April 2013, the Baumhardts purchased the snow plowing business of Abel Landscaping. This acquisition, plus previous snow plowing accounts, makes them one of the largest snow plowing contractors in the area, working for commercial, municipal and residential customers. Their fleet of 15 trucks and 10 front-end loaders are equipped with plows and snow pushers up to 22 feet wide.
EDEN Statewide dump truck service. Specializing in highway paving work! Excavation Trucks, Rock & Demolition Trucks Karen Baumhardt WI-5001973487
— Established 1983 —
Established 1948
BAUMHARDT
SAND & GRAVEL, INC.
WI-5001973362
• Excavating • Site Preparation • Concrete Crushing • Snow Plowing • Concrete Disposal • Crushed Stone • Washed Sand & Stone • Recycled Crushed Concrete • Recycled Crushed Asphalt
477-2511 Eden Wisconsin
Agricultural Support!”
477-2403 Eden, WI www.floodoilwi.com WI-5001973348
J.J. BAUMHARDT TRUCKING INC.
- Established 1990 -
J& J BAUMHARDT AGGREGATES, INC Free Stall & Bedding Sand Recycled Asphalt & Concrete Washed Stone and Sand Mason Sand Road Gravel Crushed Stone and Gravel Fill
ESTABLISHED 1978 Statewide and interstate dump truck service. Hauling sand, gravel, blacktop, fertilizer, grain, lime or any dry bulk material. Rock and demolition trailers. Lowboy Service & Oversize Service.
Jim Baumhardt
(920) 477-2611 Eden, Wisconsin
EDEN HEATING & COOLING
NEW FURNACES • AIR CONDITIONING Install • Repair • Service
920-251-2311 WI-5001973147
“Celebrating 86 years of
WI-5001973501
477-5301
The Eden Meat Market
477-2118
Eden, Wisconsin
Eden Grill
NEXT TO THE NEW SHELL GAS STATION CORNER OF 151 & WINNEBAGO DRIVE TAYCHEEDAH • 924-6800 Fresh Meats • Homemade Sausages • Venison Processing 115 EAST MAIN STREET, EDEN A restaurant featuring 920 477-2711 * Dine-In or Carry-Out Menu * Breakfast served all day * Pickup your custom Eden Catering or Eden Meat Market orders here Pick up • Delivery • Full Service * Popular Eden Meat Market Weddings • Rehearsal Dinners • Reunions products available Just south of Fond du Lac
EDEN
CATERING
WI-5001973270
Eden, Wisconsin
Personal Small-town service – stop & visit today!
WI-5001972411
TWIN LAKES TRANSIT LTD.
Graduation Parties • Anniversaries Meetings • Company Picnics
www.edenmeat.com