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Get a no-obligation quote before you renew. To learn more, visit uhc.com/Wisconsin or talk to your broker or UnitedHealthcare representative. *Please consult a tax and/or legal advisor to determine if, by receiving this surplus refund, there are any restrictions or obligations, or whether the surplus refund is taxable. Administrative services provided by United HealthCare Services, Inc. or their affiliates. Stop-loss insurance is underwritten by All Savers Insurance Company (except MA, MN, and NJ), UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company in MA and MN and UnitedHealthcare Life Insurance Company in NJ. 3100 AMS Blvd., Green Bay, WI 54313 (800) 291-2634. B2B EI20326432.0 9/20 © 2020 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 20-326433
CONTENT FALL 2020 | ISSUE 30 PUBLISHED BY THE GREATER GREEN BAY CHAMBER FOR CHAMBER MEMBERS
SECTION 1 Collective Impact is published quarterly by the Greater Green Bay Chamber, 300 N. Broadway, Ste. 3A, Green Bay WI 54303. Collective Impact is supported by advertising revenue from member companies of the Greater Green Bay Chamber. For information about the advertising rates and deadlines, contact sales at 920.593.3418. Collective Impact (USPS 10-206) is published quarterly for $18 a year by the Greater Green Bay Chamber, 300 N. Broadway, Ste. 3A, Green Bay, WI 54303. Periodicals postage paid at Green Bay, WI. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Collective Impact, 300 N. Broadway, Ste. 3A, Green Bay WI 54303. PH: 920.593.3423. COMMERCIAL LITHOGRAPHY
Page 3 – Keep On WI and Downtown Faces Forward focus on positivity and perseverance Stories by Katrina Marshall
SECTION 2 Page 12 – Chamber shifts significantly to serve businesses during COVID-19 Stories by Katrina Marshall
SECTION 3 Page 24 – How businesses have evolved and sustained themselves during COVID-19 Stories by Katrina Marshall
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SECTION 1
Laurie Radke, president/CEO, Greater Green Bay Chamber
2020
has challenged each and every one of us on so many levels – emotional, mental, financial, physical. And yet, even in a year riddled with pressures, unknowns and challenges, it has provided an opportunity for Greater Green Bay-ites to shine. That’s why we were compelled to deliver an entire issue of Collective Impact focused on how Greater Green Bay is showcasing its grit, tenacity, resilience and perseverance as well creativity and innovation not only to sustain us through this, but to bring us to the other side of it better for it. For me, it’s showcased how much people care about their families, friends, co-workers and the greater community. On the pages that follow, you will read examples of how initiatives such as Keep On WI and Downtown Faces Forward
“Positivity is a choice.”
Pointing out the good: Our positivity issue Keep On WI tenets “When you focus on the good, the good becomes better.” have set a tone for what’s going right in Greater Green Bay. You will read examples of how businesses have kept on… kept on pivoting to sustain themselves through rough times…how they kept on providing services and products the community needed…how the Chamber kept on delivering programming and grants to help businesses get through. And, most importantly, how people kept on coming together to remind us that even in times of extreme challenge, we are In This Together not merely through words, but through actions. Big or small, they all matter. And while the pages that follow feature wonderful examples of how businesses and individuals kept on stepping up to tackle the challenges head on, these are just a small percent of the good things happening our community. I encourage you to keep on looking for others around you; these are the things that will help us move forward.
Rally an inclusive community around continued support Build resilience for the long road ahead Instill confidence in our collective ability to persevere Encourage positive action Fuel optimism and inspire hope Create stronger connections despite social distance Promote physical and mental wellness Lead with strength
Fall 2020 | Collective IMPACT 3
Keep the faith;
Keep on being positive - Keep On Wisconsin During the height of COVID-19 this spring, a group of organizations and individuals came together with a simple – but powerful – goal: To remind people to keep on. Out of that, the Keep On WI campaign was born. “It was the recognition that positivity is so needed and an understanding that we needed it more than ever,” said Kate Burgess, CEO, Elevate 97, whose company KHROME crafted and executed the campaign.“Keep On became our rallying cry, a declaration of perseverance and optimism and an expression of our Wisconsin state motto, forward.” It took the form of an eight-week social media campaign via Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter that ultimately reached 122,000 people on social media alone, and provided not only inspiration and positivity during a time of uncertainty but also tangible resources. And when the eightweek campaign ended, the group circled back, recognizing it wasn’t a matter of how Keep On WI would continue, but where it should live. The answer: With the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation.
“Knowing the strategy of the Community Foundation, and its focus on ‘Good Grows Here’, it made sense,” said Burgess. Sustaining the campaign also made sense as people continue to clamor for reminders of resilience, kindness and patience, added Amanda Gay, communications program officer, Greater Green Bay Community Foundation. “It’s great to say ‘stay positive through this’ but people want to know the how,” she added. The renewed campaign is crafting more videos, including heightened visibility by community leaders showing their support and encouragement of people to make good choices and support their neighbors, as well as showcasing via other media outlets and within businesses. “We need to find ways to continue to galvanize as a community, keep on being positive about the attributes we have and move our community forward during a really difficult time,” said Dennis Buehler, president and CEO, Greater Green Bay Community Foundation. “Together, we have an opportunity to positively effect change.”
Give KeepOnWI a shoutout Showcase the ways you’re keeping on; Snap a picture or create a video of positivity “in action” and send it to Amanda Gay at amandagay@ggbcf. org for inclusion in Keep On’s social media outreach. “Keep On WI is about articulating what’s happening out there, connecting people with what other are doing to push forward and Keep On,” said Dennis Buehler, president and CEO of the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation. “We are the megaphone for what’s happening in our community; the good work happening when businesses, nonprofits and community members come together.” “When you hear individual stories about people who tell you,‘Thanks for helping me get through the day,’ that’s when your heart just beats out of joy,” added Kate Burgess, CEO, Elevate 97. 4 Collective IMPACT | Fall 2020
The companies and organizations that unified behind the Keep On WI movement include:
Keep On WI swag is AVAILABLE!
Ariens Co Associated Bank Bellin Health Elevate97/KHROME Greater Green Bay Community Foundation Green Bay Community Church Green Bay Packaging Green Bay Packers Green Bay Area Public School District Howard Suamico School District Leonard & Finco Public Relations, Inc. Schneider Schreiber Foods
“Everyone was (and continues to be) concerned with the amount of pandemic stress in our community: The school system with students and staff, family units, businesses and their employees … just so much stress in general. “Keep On WI was born out of a conversation between me, former Superintendent Michelle Langenfeld of the Green Bay Area Public School District and Superintendent Damian LaCroix of the Howard-Suamico School District. Our friendship has grown throughout the years, given our joint involvement with the Chamber’s Partners in Education board. Chad Wiegand, chief risk officer and general counsel for Schreiber, shares the beginnings of Keep On WI and the importance of managing stress while fulfilling a common need.
“As the pandemic hit, but before many schools shifted to virtual learning earlier this year, several Partners in Education members shared with each other the challenges we predicted the community was going to have in light of COVID-19. With all of the impending negative news, we thought, “We
Whether you’re looking for a yard sign,T-shirts, hats, window clings, pins or other signs, contact Amanda Gay at amandagay@ggbcf.org.
have to do something; we’re a better community than this; we need to do something to uplift spirits.” “We underestimated how quickly our community would respond to support the Keep On WI initiative. Religious organizations, schools, nonprofits and the business community all came in strong. “I’m continually impressed at how strong of a community this is. As a grassroots movement, Keep On WI happened at the right time and really spoke to the common need. We saw a tremendous amount of positivity come from the Keep On WI campaign across a number of social media platforms.
“There’s a lot that comes from a positive attitude and a smile, especially in tough times.” - Chad Wiegand Fall 2020 | Collective IMPACT 5
Keep On WI is “anchor of positivity” “When I was first invited to a conversation about what we could do to bring and hold our community together through the pandemic, I was so proud the response came early on. Immediately, business and community leaders had the thought of community, and the importance of building resilience, compassion and togetherness as a community. They didn’t wait for the virus to wear us down; they asked the question upfront.
Chris Woleske, president and CEO of Bellin Health, shares her personal insights about learning to “keep on,” have “good courage” and co-exist with COVID-19.
“Now, we have an opportunity to think about winter and the weather changing. Many people aren’t waiting to buy their boots, mittens and hats until the first snowstorm to prepare for it. But just as importantly, we also need to prepare for maintaining our mental health during this next stretch. “I think one of the most important things Keep On WI does is recognize that component of resilience, and the impact this virus has on our well-being by causing so much uncertainty. Increased uncertainty means increased worry and anxiety. The partners behind Keep On WI really worked to get ahead of that pitfall by recruiting Dr. Emily Rademacher, DO, from
“Think about 2020 and some of the most trying moments. They may include economic concerns, health concerns or a very real understanding of how inequities in our community impact the most vulnerable. We have seen people step up to serve. To volunteer. To give. To support each other. To express hope for the future at peaceful rallies. “The Greater Green Bay Community Foundation has been both a partner and advocate of Keep On WI from day one. We’re proud to join businesses, leaders, nonprofits and public servants to advance a message of strength and hope. This message strikes at the core of who we are as an organization, reflecting the needs of our community and bringing people together to make a difference. We may have mountains to climb on several Dennis Buehler, president and CEO, Greater Green Bay Community Foundation 6 Collective IMPACT | Fall 2020
Bellin Health, who specializes in psychiatry and behavioral health. In a series of videos on the Keep On WI Facebook page, Dr. Rademacher shares everything from simple tips about “remembering to breathe” to employing the concept of mindfulness in daily life. “Looking ahead, how many times have we faced challenges around the holidays? Missing people, having too many things to do…Our opportunity this year is to think differently about the holidays and how we want to spend that time together. Perhaps families consider creating a new tradition so that years from now they can reflect on something good that came out of this crazy time. Look for those opportunities and make them happen. “Everyone can work through this. I think that what Keep On WI has done is become an anchor of positivity, a place to turn to for the good stories of our community, and the people in our community encouraging and supporting each other. This is important for not only the healthcare industry, but also every business. We need our work force to feel supported and encouraged, also.”
fronts, but I’m constantly overwhelmed by the goodwill and commitment people express during the most trying times. “Every single person in our community has the ability to make a difference. The Keep On WI effort encourages everyone to use resources, talent and time available to help make a difference in the lives of one another. “Keep On WI is simply a reminder that when the chips are down, no matter the circumstances, you can make a difference. We’ll continue to share messages of hope and strength through our social media and earned media presence, including stories of the impact people are making and tools that can be used to help each other as we face the challenges before us.”
“In part, it’s because of the commitment that our business community has to our overall community that really shines through in Keep On WI. Something unique about our region is the number of businesses that have existed in our community and remained in the area for generations. If asked why they want to be in the Greater Green Bay Area, I believe they’d say that one reason is because of the mindset and sense of commitment in our community. There’s an impressive work ethic and integrity that really enforces who we are, and supports businesses staying here and staying committed. “My daughter is currently living in Paris working for a nonprofit NGO, doing research on gender and masculinity. Instead of “hang in there,” the French say ‘bon courage’ (translated as ‘good courage’). This makes a lot of sense, because going through a pandemic is hard. It requires courage, and good courage. “Keep On WI encourages ‘good courage.’ More than just taking care of oneself,“good courage” means doing the right things for your family and friends in the community and not being selfish: Wearing a mask, staying socially distant and understanding the small and big sacrifices that we’re making collectively as individuals. Together we “keep on” learning and “keep on” getting better co-existing with COVID-19.”
Damian LaCroix, superintendent of schools, Howard-Suamico School District “During a brainstorming session with Chad Wiegand and Michelle Langenfeld, we talked about how to combat the crisis in confidence that we were noticing in the community. The idea emerged to initiate a movement to rally our community in opposition of COVID-19. “The Keep On WI effort includes public and private partners coming together in a unique collaboration directly aimed at the common good at the community level. Initially, it was the Greater Green Bay area and Brown County, but eventually and to this day it includes the state.
Keep On WI is simply a reminder that when the chips are down, no matter the circumstances, you can make a difference.
“I’m proud to be associated with the initiative, and believe that it’s uniquely special on a national level in terms of impact, creativity and outreach. With more than 122,000 people reached via social media, 2,000 Facebook followers and $100,000 of in-kind media support, we provided a positive focus and hope during some of the darkest early days of the pandemic. We did, in fact, initiate a movement that’s still having an impact today.”
I’m proud to be associated with the initiative, and believe that it’s uniquely special on a national level in terms of impact, creativity and outreach. Fall 2020 | Collective IMPACT 7
“This notion of ‘keeping on’ is important. When Keep On WI started, it was on the front end [when] people were thinking of ways to collectively support each other, and the concept of Keep On WI was great for our community “The Packers were approached by the group that was getting the initiative started here in the area. As an opportunity to collaborate with other great local organizations, we felt it was a worthwhile cause to support.
Green Bay Packers Director of Public Affairs Aaron Popkey shares his thoughts on the organization’s involvement and passion to support the Keep On WI initiative.
“One of the things that we brought to the group effort was our ability to sell the swag items in the Packers Pro Shop, which were made available for purchase. We also coordinated the yard sign distribution outside Lambeau Field. It was fun to see the signs appear in different neighborhoods and on roadways! I think people took it to heart as a way to really support each other. “The desire to connect is a great way to have a shared effort. With Keep On WI, the positivity is a great message highlighting what each individual and each organization can bring forward to the effort.”
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“Give” and “get”: The emotional tug-of-war behind the pandemic Dr. Emily Rademacher, DO, MBA, of Bellin Psychiatric Center in Green Bay specializes in psychiatry and behavioral health. Earlier this year, she was approached by Bellin Health President and CEO Chris Woleske about recording a series of mental health-related videos for the Keep On WI Facebook page. “I really like what the Keep On WI campaign stands for—trying to lift each other up and stay supportive during a time that’s universally difficult,” said Rademacher.
Dr. Emily Rademacher, DO, MBA, of Bellin Psychiatric Center in Green Bay specializes in psychiatry and behavioral health. Earlier this year, she was approached by Bellin Health President and CEO Chris Woleske about recording a series of mental health-related videos for the Keep On WI Facebook page.
While humbly hesitant to take to the camera, since the early stages of the pandemic Rademacher’s videos have garnered 15.8K views and counting, with hundreds of appreciative comments. “This has been such an interesting time as a physician, regardless of specialty,” said Rademacher. “I decided I would use the opportunity for personal growth. We were able to reach a lot of people and share some seemingly ‘common sense’ ways to try to manage what was going on at the time.” In her videos, Rademacher explains the concept of “COVID-19 fatigue,” provides tips to cope with the emotional ramifications of the pandemic and stresses the importance of self-care. “The emotional layers of the pandemic are significant,” she said. “It’s very real and it’s a
very complicated issue. One of the things I try to capture is the whole idea of giving yourself some grace—that what you’d give to others you also need to give to yourself.” As a busy parent, Rademacher also relates the numerous new roles taken on because of COVID-19 to the many layers of an onion. “You’re responsible for a lot as a spouse, child, parent, employee, friend…not only are you trying to maintain your own mental health and the health and safety of others, but you’re also trying to keep your children from sliding backwards,” she said. “There are many competing priorities that are all important, but they can’t all necessarily exist together easily. You need to ‘give’ in one area to ‘get’ in another. “There are always unintended consequences and collateral damage caused by stress. The goal is to have as little damage as possible … and I think it’s ok to acknowledge that it’s a lot and overwhelming,” she added. Looking ahead, Rademacher expressed concern that this year’s holiday season is likely going to be a very difficult time for many. Her advice for the coming months is simple: “Reach out to lessen loneliness, especially if you have family members or acquaintances who are living alone. A little gesture can make a huge difference.”
Be on the lookout for more videos from Dr. Emily Rademacher. Follow and like the Keep On WI Facebook page at www.facebook.com/KeepOnWi/ Fall 2020 | Collective IMPACT 9
DOWNTOWN FACES FORWARD
Finding the silver linings and the courage to “Face Forward” — Initiative celebrates the faces behind the storefronts and provide hope to Wisconsin downtowns
Bridget O’Connor, owner of O’Connor Connective — Photo credit: Alexis Arnold, Alexis Arnold Photography 10 Collective IMPACT | Fall 2020
Like many small business owners, Bridget O’Connor, owner of O’Connor Connective in Downtown De Pere, is not one to sit idly in the face of adversity. When faced with an opportunity to make a difference, O’Connor and her team first partnered with local photographers Mark Hawkins, owner of Mark Hawkins Photography and president of Hands On Deck, and Alexis Arnold, owner of artlessBastard and Alexis Arnold Photography, to feature Green Bay and De Pere business owners and their fortitude during the COVID-19 crisis. The result: A community endeavor that became the Downtown Faces Forward campaign.
Here, O’Connor shares her thoughts about the inspiration behind the collaborative creative process and, ultimately, “the silver linings” discovered along the way. “As I looked out our office window to an overly quiet street, I wondered what we could do to help. (What could O’Connor Connective do to help at a time like this?) As communicators, our business is telling stories. So it became clear that we’d help tell the stories of the faces behind the storefronts, so that people could know how they could support their hometown entrepreneurs in the midst of the Safer At Home order.”
Want help to “face forward”?
From social media to storefronts
Thanks to a generous donation from Kuehn Printing in Green Bay, posters featuring the Downtown Faces Forward logo are available. Contact O’Connor Connective at 920.288.2980 to get yours today. Or, have an idea on how to expand the project and further raise awareness featuring the faces behind the storefronts?
To date, a growing list of more than 75 small businesses has been highlighted as part of the Downtown Faces Forward campaign, along with numerous partners and additional local photographers and volunteers who have joined the cause. Other communities are welcome to join in their support by showcasing their downtown business owners and using the hashtag #DowntownFacesForward. Get to know the faces behind the storefronts and see all who stepped up to make this happen throughout our region at: facebook.com/ DowntownFacesForward
“Small business owners are an epitome of the heart of America. Our downtowns are where many chose to be. They share their passion, products and services in ways that are uniquely theirs. Most of these storefronts operate with thin margins—so every day they apply their tenacity. But in times of crisis, you see their true grit and determination come out. And together, with neighboring businesses, they lift up one another.
linkedin.com/showcase/ downtown-faces-forward instagram.com/ downtownfacesforward
“That’s what we witnessed time and again as volunteers, photographers and organizations like the regional chambers, downtown organizations and CVBs stepped up right away to help us promote Downtown Faces Forward and the faces of those behind the downtown storefronts. They were very supportive and collaborative as we celebrated as many businesses as possible. Then Image Studios, Kim Thiel and Al Kolbeck also lent their photography magic.
Partners
“We started in De Pere and Green Bay. It then expanded into Appleton and Neenah. We’re proud to say that we’re raising awareness up and down the Fox River across the New North region in support of our local, small, downtown businesses. We’ve heard from many people that they didn’t know about some of these businesses before. They would tag others [in social media posts] and say, ‘Let’s check this out!’ That’s pretty neat when you can introduce people to businesses that they didn’t know about before COVID-19, as a result of COVID-19. These are the silver linings.”
Downtown Faces Forward is made possible by O’Connor Connective in De Pere and is supported by local downtown enthusiasts in Greater Green Bay and the Fox Cities. They include Definitely De Pere; De Pere Area Chamber of Commerce; De Pere Art Center; Downtown Green Bay, Inc.; Olde Main Street, Inc.; Greater Green Bay Chamber; Greater Green Bay Convention & Visitors Bureau; Appleton Downtown Inc.; Future Neenah Inc.; Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau; New North Inc.; and photographers Alexis Arnold, Mark Hawkins, Image Studios Inc., Kim Thiel and Al Kolbeck. Fall 2020 | Collective IMPACT 11
SECTION 2
CHAMBER PIVOTED TO SERVE BUSINESSES’ CHANGING NEEDS All business was hit by COVID-19; small businesses were among those most significantly impacted. The Chamber stepped up early on to respond, not only delivering educational and networking events (see article in this section) but also creating: • A Greater Green Bay Back to Business Grant • A Small Business Hotline • A weekly video series hosted by industry leaders and community leaders • The We Still Mean Business-focused web resource, providing links to local, state and federal resources, member news, business resources, employee-oriented resources and resources for home • A free job resource at www.GreaterGBC.org/jobs • Opportunities to convene many different groups, including healthcare, business and elected officials to work collaboratively
READ ON TO LEARN MORE. 12 Collective IMPACT | Fall 2020
Getting back to business and/or staying in business in the midst of COVID-19 this spring required more than hard work and sheer will. In many cases, it also required funding. The Chamber, along with inaugural funder American Foods Group (including the company’s trucking arm, America’s Service Line), was quick to respond to the needs of Brown County businesses by offering two rounds of the Greater Green Bay Back to Business Grant. The beneficiaries: 39 businesses that received $276,500. The grant catered to small- and medium-size businesses, beginning with an initial $200,000 investment by American Foods Group. Other contributors that joined the effort include The Schneider Foundation, Breakthrough®, City of Green Bay, Badger State Brewing Company, Lawton Gift Fund, Meijer, Packers Sanitation Services Inc. and Johnson Financial Group. “We are thankful to the business leaders in our community who contributed to the fund and made this possible,” said Kelly Armstrong, vice president of economic development for the Chamber. “Small business is the foundation of the Chamber and at the heart of the Greater Green Bay community.”
Voyager Sourdough Co.
“The days of having a packed restaurant, bar and cafe are a long way away. In anticipation of new shopping trends (in which customers arrive to purchase something affordable and get out of there as soon as possible), we spent the grant money on a big grab-andgo cooler, as well as some merchandising shelving. These weren’t in the initial plans when we first opened the bakery, but it’s kind of like an idea of how we foresee people wanting to shop in the future. “We’ve started to create products like to-go salads, coffee in glass bottles and delicatessen-style portions of vacuum-packed cheese and ham. Customers can come in and create a whole picnic box of what we offer. Now with our cooler in the winter we’ll have to-go soups and chilis—things that pair well with the breads we sell for a quick, healthy meal.” - Ben Cadman, co-owner, Voyageurs Sourdough Co.
The Attic
“I do really appreciate the assistance we received, without which The Attic would not have been able to confidently expand hours and rehire some of our staff.” - William Macier, owner, The Attic Books and Coffee
Promoting Abilities
“The Back to Business Grant had a profound impact on Promoting Abilities. We were forced to close our doors March 18 and couldn’t reopen until June 1. Right before COVID, we had eight referrals…and then they stopped and we lost all that business. Being a business owner, I wasn’t able to collect unemployment and it was a challenge. Thankfully, with the grant, I was able to pay my rent after using all my reserves and income at that point. It was a huge relief because I had to upgrade my space to come back to work to maintain social distancing. That required renting a space in the Startup Hub that’s four times larger to accommodate food prep tables, as well as buying eight desks and chairs and an air purifier and PPE supplies. We also had to purchase a vehicle that we didn’t anticipate doing; prior to COVID-19, we used the bus for 100% of the time with our clients. We have expanded the program to effectively serve eight clients as a result. I’m grateful for the grant because without it, I don’t know that we could have reopened our doors.” — Greg Maloney, owner and director of services, Promoting Abilities, a nonprofit providing a day service program to empower adults with developmental disabilities to become more independent. The program works with up to eight clients to work on life skills to integrate them into everyday life including making nutritional meals, budgeting, physical fitness, volunteering, building job skills and other skillsets to make them productive and contributing members of society. Fall 2020 | Collective IMPACT 13
CHAMBER “ZOOMS IN” WITH VIRTUAL EVENTS & MORE
COVID-19 took a hallmark of the Chamber – inperson events – and turned that upside down by requiring everything to go virtual. The Chamber stepped up, delivering new twists on existing signature events (such as a virtual Future 15 & Young Professional Awards and a clever way to produce the Golden Apple Awards). We also delivered on a slew of new offerings clamored for by the business community dealing with new challenges and issues as a result of the pandemic.
HOW THE NUMBERS ADD UP From March to June 15, the Chamber’s special events area and Current Young Professionals:
Hosted 33 events including:
26
educational/ informational events
7
networking events
Welcomed 1,370 attendees
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THESE INCLUDED: • Chamber@Home series of seminars on topics ranging from change management, to legislative updates, loan and grant opportunities and well-being; • Industry- and audience-specific roundtables to provide opportunities for sharing best practices and operational ideas to sustain business; • Online Power of Networking events to provide meaningful connection opportunities
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On the industry roundtables:
“I attended several of the Chamber’s virtual meetings during COVID-19. I’m thankful for the offerings, showing care for Green Bay businesses and its people. From each meeting, the main thing I took away was a sense of community and unity…the feeling that we’re all in this together, and together we’ll come out of it. Knowing you’re not alone is very important. “It also was refreshing to share ideas and see the creativity that businesses have developed. We’ve all been forced to develop new sales tactics and think outside the box. The forum gave each person who attended the ability to share as much or as little as they felt comfortable. “The Chamber presented speakers during these meetings that gave businesses answers they were looking for, as well as information or connections that could help them during the pandemic. I believe that being involved and connected to the community is very important—especially during times like this.” - Don Thompson, winery manager, Captain’s Walk Winery
On the virtual Business After Hours:
“No one is immune from the impact of COVID-19, both personally and professionally. Our processes have changed, our interactions have adapted and yet so many things still seem so unknown. “People find support in what is familiar, and for many professionals that is the Chamber and its events. Whether in person or virtual, the Chamber’s networking events have seemed not only a way to learn about area businesses, but also an opportunity for friends coming together to talk, share stories and offer solutions. COVID-19 showed us we all need that more than ever during tough times. “The Chamber’s virtual events and learning workshops really have been a convenience for many with the ease of simply logging in. I can only assume that the Chamber—and really so many of us—will continue to host at least some virtual events long after we’ve been given the ‘all clear.’ One thing is for sure: The Chamber will continue to offer support, opportunities and education to all of our area businesses.” - Ben Malcore, REALTOR®, Malcore Premier Group Keller Williams
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WPR Business Sponsorship Good for your community and your bottom line!
Learn more at wpr.org/sponsor, or contact Sherry Boushele-Walter at sherry.boushelewalter@wpr.org or 920-810-6841. Fall 2020 | Collective IMPACT 17
Current Young Professionals bring Broadway to broadband Topping charts historically as Current Young Professionals’ most heavily attended in-person event, this year’s Broadway-themed Future 15 & Young Professional Awards ceremony looked a bit different after being rescheduled due to COVID-19 safety guidelines and government-mandated gathering regulations. This summer, the event was instead a virtual evening of glitz, glamor and watch parties for the young professionals and organizations being recognized. The following recipients share their experience of taking center stage in the new remote format, while still being surrounded by an audience of family, friends and colleagues from near and far. Get to know all of the award recipients and view more photos on Current’s Facebook page: facebook.com/ greenbaycurrent
18 Collective IMPACT | Fall 2020
Mario Gonzalez, communications and marketing manager, Wello, and Future 15 recipient “It was no small task to host a celebration like the Future 15 & Young Professional Awards in the midst of a pandemic, but Current was able to pull it off! It was such a great night that I was able to enjoy it with my family and loved ones in Chicago and Manitowoc, thanks to the virtual format. Allowing my daughter and other loved ones to be a part of the night that would not have otherwise been truly did make the evening that much more special for both myself and my wife, and I am so grateful that they were part of my Future 15 celebration. “Given the number of text messages and phone calls both during and after the event, I believe my family certainly enjoyed themselves. I could hear the excitement in their voices as they shared how proud they were, and appreciated the convenience of being able to attend through the virtual format. “Just dressing up for the evening was so much fun despite not leaving our home. And even though the night was supposed to be about celebrating my accomplishments for the Greater Green Bay community, my daughter definitely stole the show! She started in a dress, but had a ‘wardrobe change’ during the awards to pajamas.”
It was such a great night that I was able to enjoy it with my family and loved ones in Chicago and Manitowoc, thanks to the virtual format.
Heather Milbach, community relations manager, Schreiber Foods, Future 15 recipient and Young Professional of the Year
“With not being able to gather in person, being able to celebrate the Future 15 & Young Professional Awards event virtually was a memorable experience. It was great that our children could ‘attend’ with us and experience the special night. We made a fun evening of it and got dressed up to attend from our living room. It was a wonderful opportunity for them to see and hear from people in our community doing such impactful work, and allowed my husband and me to share with them the importance of giving back and how this event celebrated that in our own community. At the time of the event, we had a couple months in of social distancing and staying home, so having the event—even virtually—gave us something fun to do as a family safely from home. It also was really neat to see the families and friends of the other award recipients on the live event, and it gave the experience a more personal feel. “The feedback received from my family, friends and colleagues was all really positive
and humbling. Many people reached out to share their congratulations and so many kind words. The way the event itself was paired with social media content, and other media such as print, really got the word out about the event and awards. “I also had many people reach out asking about the surprise factor when they announced the Young Professional of the Year award. I had no idea I would be receiving that award, and the surprise was as real as it could get! While watching the live event, we were looking around to guess where the Chamber staff may be, or trying to watch the other Future 15 recipients to catch a surprise reaction. But when Current Program Manager Mallory Nash turned the camera, I was shocked to see my own front door. I had no idea and didn’t expect them to be coming to me. It was a really humbling and exciting experience, and all still feels like a whirlwind. They did a great job of making it special, and it’s something I’ll never forget.”
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Golden Apple Awards recipients shine brightly in the classroom—and online The format of this year’s Golden Apple Awards program may have taken on a different look in a virtual ceremony and celebration, but for the award recipients, the award’s prestige and value meant just as much.The FOX 11 program was produced on stage at the Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, with each Golden Apple Award recipient arriving in intervals to fanfare and a warm welcome. This was followed by the taping of them being introduced by their guest presenter and receiving their award from a Golden Apple major sponsor on stage. The resulting production aired several times on both FOX 11 and CW-14 and is still available for viewing at www.GreaterGBC.org/ GoldenApples
Nicky VanLaanen, 2020 Golden Apple Award recipient, Ashwaubenon High School “I thought the Greater Green Bay Chamber and the Golden Apple sponsors did an amazing job making this experience so special, considering the circumstances. They still made us feel like rock stars with the ‘red carpet treatment.’ “The event was formal and every detail was well-thought out and executed. Allowing us to still give our acceptance speeches and be introduced by our presenters was extremely special. “WLUK Fox 11 aired the taping several times, showcasing all of the wonderful things our students have achieved, both in and out of the classroom. To celebrate [virtually] with our colleagues, administrators, students, family and friends was very special.”
Anne Schmidt, 2020 Golden Apple Award recipient, Bay Port High School “Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be a Golden Apple Award recipient! For me it’s not as much about the award as [a way to reflect] on a journey you’ve taken.
was a reflection of the journey I’ve taken as an educator that began more than a decade ago—in a time before online grade books and emails!
“It was probably about 15 years ago when I thought about filling out my first application, then again 10 years ago, then five years ago …I kept thinking, I needed to hold out on submitting it, so that when the time came I’d be able to use it as a reflection of my own personal and professional growth. I believe that if you don’t think you’re an innovator, you shouldn’t be told you’re an innovator.
“Although it was bittersweet not to be able to celebrate the event in person with friends and family, it was nevertheless a really special experience for my son and me, with memories to last a lifetime. Getting to watch the video speech from my good friend and fellow (nowretired) Bay Port chemistry teacher Beverly was the icing on the cake. She’s been my biggest supporter since I became a teacher at Bay Port.”
“I’m glad I waited. I came out better because of that reflection process. This opportunity 20 Collective IMPACT | Fall 2020
The challenge To everyone a seat at the (virtual) table Within just a few short months of becoming the new vice president of talent and education at the Chamber, Eric Vanden Heuvel found himself at the center of a collaboration unlike anything the community had ever seen. This June, representatives from all public and private Brown County school districts came together to attend a virtual press conference hosted by the Chamber’s Partners in Education (PIE) board of directors.Also participating were thought leaders from some of the largest local businesses and health care organizations, as well as the Green Bay Packers. Their discussion focused on the impending effects of COVID-19 on the local education system. “The best minds in our community were working together,” said Vanden Heuvel, who is himself a father with two young students. “Everyone there had the best interest of the children, teachers, families and the entire community in mind. It was very inspiring.” The Partners in Education board has been in existence since 1993. What many might not realize is that the collaborative and networking nature of the Partners in Education board allows it to continually work “behind the scenes” toward resolving larger issues for business and education, resulting in improved outcomes and experiences. The board addresses topics relating to diversity, equality, inclusion and the need for parent engagement. According to Vanden Heuvel, no one entity can take these on by itself.
“It wasn’t until the pandemic hit that the board became a focal point,” said Vanden Heuvel. He credits the community’s responsiveness and readiness to tackle the “very complicated COVID-19 problem” as it relates to schools to the longevity of the relationships founded through the decades-old board. “When the time came to call an emergency meeting, that trust was already established because the board existed,” he said. “There was no need to develop a culture to pull people together.” Although the future of this academic year remains uncertain due to the everchanging circumstances of the pandemic, regular conversations continue among area superintendents and the board. “Sometimes, our worst moments bring out our best work, and that has never been more true than for the Partners in Education board,” said Vanden Heuvel. “In this case, [the pandemic] is a common problem, and this is why the board exists: We meet, discuss and reflect as we all navigate through together. Yes, we’re all working for individual districts and businesses, but at the end of the day, we all make up the community. We work toward solutions. We’re all just trying to make it through. “Even long after the pandemic is gone, we still will dedicate time and resources to the next ‘big picture’ issue facing our community,” he said. “The power of collaboration is really the value the board brings.”
An unpredictable, politically/emotionally charged, economically unsustainable, and fragile community health environment caused by a lingering global pandemic with potential to disrupt or displace the current K-16 educational system.
The goal Respond as a Brown County partners in education with a leadership style that is adaptive, thoughtful, inclusive and creative for the successful fall re-opening of school systems based on multiple design scenarios that are: 1) relatively safe; 2) equitable/ accessible; 3) educationally appropriate; and 4) affordable. Fall 2020 | Collective IMPACT 21
Ring for answers on the Small Business Resource Hotline Who do you call when you’re a small business and unclear where to go next in the midst of questions better suited for an accountant, banker, attorney or the like? The Chamber’s Small Business Resource Hotline, introduced during the height of the pandemic. This spring, the Chamber – in collaboration with several partner organizations – established a business representativestaffed Small Business Resource Hotline to answer small businesses’ “back to business”related questions resulting from COVID-19. “Small businesses are vital to Greater Green Bay’s economy and needed ready access to resources to help sustain their businesses,” said Laurie Radke, Chamber president and CEO. “That was the impetus for establishing a small business-focused resource like this for our business community.” The hotline is a collaborative effort initiated by the Chamber’s Startup Hub, along with partners Associated Bank, Wipfli LLP,
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Small Business Development Center, Green Bay SCORE Chapter 508 and Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation (WWBIC). Centralizing those resources is the whole premise of the Startup Hub, powered by the Greater Green Bay Chamber, the front door to the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Greater Green Bay. “Just as the Startup Hub functions as the much-needed, physical ‘one-stop shop’ for entrepreneurs and small businesses looking to take their business to the next level, the Small Business Resource Hotline is meant to be a single-source solution for these businesses’ questions in this very dynamic business environment,” said Kelly Armstrong, vice president of economic development for the Chamber. “We’ve assembled very strong experts in their fields who will provide knowledgeable and responsive service to small businesses via this hotline.”
Inga Arendt, CPA, partner, Wipfli LLP and Small Business Resource Hotline Partner “The Small Business Resource Hotline provides the perfect opportunity for Wipfli LLP to support small businesses and startups in our community. We know they have many questions, and during these uncertain times we can be a resource for a wide range of business topics. Our goal is to help them effectively respond and recover. We are happy to work with the Chamber and the other partner organizations to help navigate the pandemic-related challenges in order to get back to business.” 22 Collective IMPACT | Fall 2020
Have a question? The Small Business Resource Hotline is available from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and can be reached at 920.496.2116. Phone calls will be answered by representatives of the participating organizations on a rotating basis. If the answering representative does not have an answer immediately, the question will be funneled to another partner and answered within 24 hours. Questions also can be posed via the Small Business Hotline website at thestartuphub.org/small-businessresource-hotline and will be answered within 24 hours.
Areas of expertise have inevitable overlap but will include many of the newer laws and business grant opportunities as well as accounting and tax questions, marketing and general business assistance, lending questions, direct lending and business education, and business banking/lending questions. Feel free to contact us if you have questions about any of these topics and more: • Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) compliance and questions • Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan assistance (application, forgiveness, Q&A) • CARES Act compliance and guidance • General business advice • General tax and accounting questions • Financial questions Fall 2020 | Collective IMPACT 23
SECTION 3 Businesses persevere through COVID-19
How businesses have survived – and thrived – during this unprecedented time Businesses [insert verb of choice here – pivoted, shifted, scrambled, hustled] with the onset of COVID-19, work that was, well, work, requiring a lot of ingenuity, sacrifice and willingness to try new things in an effort to persevere and remain in business. Party tents became social distance tents. Production of acrylic screens and dividers previously used for point-of-purchase displays were reconfigured as hygiene barriers. Restaurants got creative in making take-home pizza packets in addition to their regular fare to compensate for fewer dine-in customers. Across the board, businesses have taken thinking “outside the box” to a whole new level as a result of the pandemic, discovering and capitalizing on new opportunities as a way to sustain themselves.
Here are a few examples:
Same tents, new mission Who would have thought “a party tent is essentially the same as a socially distanced tent”! For American Tent, owner Tony Ehrbar and his team, this realization led to staying the course with the same quality tents they already manufacture and sell—but with a unique twist. “January and February were pretty much ‘business as usual.’ But once the pandemic hit in March, with restaurants closed down and no one wanting to have events, we were pretty slow. We ended up taking Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans to help us cover our expenses. “But then we began to receive a few calls here and there—from manufacturers looking to extend their outdoor spaces or breakrooms, to schools in New Jersey, and even nursing homes. When our team came together to collaborate with our sales and marketing staff, we discovered a party tent is essentially the same as a socially distanced tent—it’s just a matter of messaging! 24 Collective IMPACT | Fall 2020
Elevate97 elevates community with face shields Kate Burgess, CEO and owner of Elevate97, provides insights into how the local marketing brand-house continues to innovate in the face of a global pandemic. “Early March, we had just come back from spring break and met with the leadership team immediately upon our return. We discussed, analyzed and brainstormed about how we could put our core services to use and deliver our clients’ needs during COVID-19. “One of our lead people—a manager in our print production area—suggested we use one of our machines to help produce face shields. Within 48 hours, we had produced a prototype and shared it with local health care providers Bellin Health and HSHS. We worked with their teams to produce the right size, stitch and comfort level, and then put it into production within 72 hours. The experience was absolutely necessary for our organization’s survival. Most of all, I am proud of our team’s ability to come together to make something when there was nothing. And in the process, we helped our community by putting our purpose into practice which is, to elevate others.”
“How do we stick together and help each other? It’s about helping our neighbor, the Greater Green Bay community.” - Kate Burgess
“After renewing our advertising campaigns with repurpose (and some geofencing), one of the most out-of-the-box projects we manufactured was tent walls for a convention center ‘field hospital’ in New Orleans. Incorporating tents they already had, we designed enclosed walls that provided separation and privacy. It essentially became a sort of ‘tent village.’ “Despite tents being heavy and cumbersome to ship, this year (like every other year) we’ve been able to ship to all 50 states, as well as the Caribbean, Central America and Canada. We’ve also continued our commitment to helping develop local leaders in our community despite the pandemic by sponsoring one of our employees in the Leadership Green Bay program I graduated last year, as well as hosting this year’s opening retreat. “But looking ahead to next year, I think it’s going to be kind of crazy with a lot of outdoor weddings!”
“Much of our pivoting process was based on customer demand. We were super nimble and able to act quickly upon new ideas and opportunities. We’ve managed to double our staff and triple our revenue. It’s actually shaped up to be a pretty good year.” - Tony Ehrbar
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Gemini Plastics When Wisconsin began to reopen, Gemini Plastics, Inc., found it could manufacture clear protective screens, shields and dividers for POP [point of purchase] applications, commonly used for service counters in restaurants and schools. Joseph Beausoleil, president of Gemini Plastics, explains how this became a reality. “Our employees have worked remotely these past two years, so transitioning to a ‘work-from-home’ environment was ‘just another work week.’ And because of our transition to a digital manufacturing platform in June 2018, we were able to respond immediately to the new demand. “We’re fortunate to have four large CNC [computer numerical control] routers used for our B2B [business-to-business] industrial clients. These same machines are now used to create the PPE [personal protective equipment], a process that takes about 10 to 14 days. Our customers reach out directly to us, we create a drawing to confirm dimensional
Proud to support the Paper + Packaging companies during this time of essential need ISGInc.com
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Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning
requirements, machine the components and often deliver directly to them. “As the school year approached, we worked closely with the local districts to provide clear sheet materials for them to safely start the season. When demand made it seem impossible to do so, we were able to provide the timely delivery of clear plastic sheets. Our customers were grateful that we were able to supply hundreds of sheets of material so quickly. “One of our other customers manufactures machinery that produces diapers and other hygiene products. As the need for face masks quickly increased, they maneuvered their equipment and asked their vendor base to assist in converting the machines to now making face masks. We were able to quickly supply both clear materials and industrial plastics to assist in this transition and bring new capabilities online—quickly and affordably.”
“Clear sheet materials remain in high demand. We are fortunate to have great partners in our plastics community that have pulled together to source materials. We do indeed plan to continue producing the screens for the foreseeable future!” - Joseph Beausoleil, Gemini Plastics, Inc.
The IT flood: “Like drinking from a firehose” From students to our workforce, the remote transition was vital—if not mandatory—across a myriad of industries. With more than a decade of experience in the field of information technology (IT), Dave Pisani, EVP for Camera Corner Connecting Point (CCCP, a division of ACP CreativIT LLC), shares his pandemic experience of 2020 from a provider perspective. “Just like with everyone else, this all started around mid-March. The craziness lasted through April and May (though certain products are still very constrained today, like Chromebooks and Apple iPads). But through it all, CCCP helped schools, companies and nonprofits go virtual in three ways.
“While we do anticipate that many people will return to the office in the coming months, the work from home model isn’t going away. We’ll continue to offer these products and services into perpetuity.” - Dave Pisani
“First, as you can imagine, many were not prepared to have a good majority of their staff work from home. A lot of hardware products were needed (especially laptops, monitors, webcams and printers) and supply was constrained for certain types of products. We helped customers get the products they needed so their employees could work safely from home. “Second, as a Microsoft Gold Cloud Reseller, we’re experts in Microsoft Azure and 365, which includes Microsoft Teams. We helped secure Microsoft 365 licenses where needed so our customers’ employees could access their most important applications like Word and Excel from the Cloud. We also provided guidance and training on Teams so customers could quickly get up to speed on
this valuable tool. For many customers—and even for us at CCCP—this was like drinking from a firehose. Fortunately it’s a very solid tool and ‘necessity is the mother of invention,’ so adoption was quick. Customers we already helped transition to Microsoft Azure and 365 were astounded at how painless the transition was to work from home. For all intents and purposes, there was no adjustment at all from an IT perspective. “Finally, we worked with customers to ensure their environments were safe from an IT security perspective. With many more people working from home, IT security concerns became even more prevalent as the number of ways for ‘bad actors’ to get into companies’ systems increased exponentially. As a Fortinet Platinum partner, we have the experience and knowledge to help our customers keep their IT environments safe. “Being a $200 million company, we are both large enough to have some influence with our key vendor partners (for example, we’re a Platinum partner for HP, HPE, Dell, Lenovo and Fortinet, a Gold Partner for Microsoft, and a Premier Cisco Partner), and small enough that we can turn on a dime for our customers. When you’re in the IT business, it’s not unusual to get calls from customers who need immediate assistance. We’re used to reallocating resources to help them out, and that’s essentially what happened with the pandemic. Our customers understood and were appreciative of our efforts to help everyone we could.” Fall 2020 | Collective IMPACT 27
Kurt Voss, CEO, AmeriLux Despite the rise of COVID-19, AmeriLux International was able to pivot and expand its product offering to include custom-designed hygiene barriers of all shapes and sizes based on customer specifications and unique applications. CEO Kurt R.Voss provides insights into this process.
“It was a quick pivot that began with an internal meeting to not only strategize around the circumstances, but also discuss how we could make a positive impact during the uncertain times surrounding COVID-19. We were making hygiene barriers within 48 hours of this meeting.
“At AmeriLux, we believe in the power of positivity. Culturally we are intentional about cultivating creativity and innovation through optimistic, positive thinking. In addition, we resist the notion of being ‘victims’ and remain focused on persevering through whatever circumstances are presented to us.
“AmeriLux was well-positioned, based on the strategic partnerships we have both on the supply side and distribution-wise. As a value-adding distributor and manufacturer, we have access to numerous items, including solid sheet and multiwall polycarbonate and acrylic. We leveraged these existing materials and utilized equipment like
Takeout with a side of #toastpositive Missy Martens, co-owner of Copper State Brewing Co. in downtown Green Bay with husband Jon, opens up about “connecting people, creating experiences and crafting great beer” during COVID-19. “People are social creatures. They need to gather and be with one another. In March, when everything closed down due to the pandemic and our brewery was unable to remain open for dine-in, we shifted to take-out and curbside for food and drinks. People could come in and get their growlers filled or buy cans of beer to go, as well as coffee drinks and coffee beans to go, but if they weren’t comfortable coming in, we’d take their orders out to them. “At the beginning, it was a 180-degree change. When we were closed, we had to lay off all our employees, and Jon and I operated the business alone with our general manager. But as the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans came through, we were able to bring a few people back to work and tackle some projects around the brewery, from fixing up our biergarten to painting and deep cleaning. “We got our online ordering system set up very quickly and were able to do some fun things online on social media to promote our business and fellow small businesses in general. We started a #toastpositive movement to promote local craft beer and food, and [encouraging people to] tag others who also were doing positive things. 28 Collective IMPACT | Fall 2020
“When we were able to open at the end of May, we again offered in-person dining but continue to offer take-out and curbside for those who prefer that. “Throughout the summer, we sold burger and brat grill packets, and now a new staple is our pizza packets— families can get the dough and ‘all the fixins’ to make pizzas at home.This is a fun option for bolstering family togetherness while supporting a local family business! “Pre-pandemic, we probably did 10% of business in take-out sales. During the shutdown, of course, we were at 100 percent take-out, and now that we’ve been able to do both, we’re at 20 percent take-out. Being a brewery, we don’t offer delivery. We can’t deliver beer, and most people who order food to-go are coming in to pick up beer to bring home with it (which is highly encouraged, as they go so well together!). Looking ahead, we plan to continue offering curbside and take-out food, coffee and beer, as well as pizza packets. “Despite everything, we’ve been able to build up our customer base and hope they’ll come out to eat and drink as soon as they’re comfortable. Overall, we’ve found that the community has been very supportive and really is pulling for us to make it through to the other side of this pandemic. Stay #toastpositive!” Catch up with Copper State Brewing Co. on Facebook: facebook.com/copperstatebrewing
CNC [computer numerical control] routers and lasers to manufacture the hygiene barriers. “Our barriers are designed to provide a safer environment for people to engage with each other and can be found in such places as schools, restaurants, professional sports complexes, financial institutions, grocery stores and retail spaces. How our team came together to collaborate with the marketplace and our strategic partners speaks volumes to how we strive to
operate as an organization. AmeriLux has a strong conviction for win-win relationships. Our ability to listen to our customers’ needs, manufacture custom barriers and deliver in a timely manner was extremely positive and very well-received, solidifying existing customer relationships and fostering new ones. AmeriLux continues to make the barriers and expects demand to continue for the foreseeable future.”
“Personally, I am proud of not only how well our team responded (and continues to respond), but also how we were able to make a positive impact in our community by providing barriers that allowed businesses to continue operating as safely as possible.” - Kurt R. Voss
“Our whole mission centers around community. Through everything from the #toastpositive movement to our grilling and pizza packets, we were able to allow people to gather and create experiences with those they care about in their own homes. We’re humbled by the support of many faithful customers, and it’s amazing to see a community pull together through this crazy, shared experience.” - Missy Martens
Photo credit: Shaunae Teske Photography Fall 2020 | Collective IMPACT 29
Making mealtime memories, one CHOP at a time Jyll Everman, busy wife, mother of two elementary schoolers and co-owner of Gather on Broadway with husband, Tommy, knows a thing or two about mealtime multitasking. She explains how sharing food virtually helped to repurpose their downtown venue while bringing families closer together at home this year. “We knew we needed to pivot the moment the pandemic hit. Having an event space called “gather” became the worst business model ever! “Our onsite CHOP cooking classes always were very popular, so we wanted to find a way to bring them into homes. That’s when the idea for our CHOP: At Home Meal Kits was ‘hatched.’ We try to never put out a product that isn’t completely
thought-out—whether it’s marketing, videos or a website—so it took us a little longer than we wanted … But at the same time, once our CHOP: At Home Meal Kits were live, we were so proud to be offering something very different and top-notch. “The reaction was so positive! At the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, people were scared to leave their homes, so we helped them out by doing the grocery shopping and measuring and having such large, family-size portions available (at one point we also included toilet paper with each order!). “As the weather gets colder, the need for comforting, homemade recipes is in order. The fact that at Gather on Broadway we do the preparation for you just makes life easier for everyone. And since
Bakery “rises” to the challenge Ben Cadman, co-owner of Voyageurs Sourdough Co. with wife Celeste, reflects on the journey of opening their own bakery in Downtown Green Bay just weeks before the pandemic hit with “everything on the line.” “A lot of times when you start a business, like for us, all of our life savings goes into making it a reality. The food, beverage and restaurant industry has had a lot of bad luck this year, and collectively, feel like we’ve gotten hit with the brunt of what’s happening with COVID-19. But you can’t just ride it out and see what ‘hopefully’ or ‘maybe’ happen. That’s really not an option for us. Instead we said, ‘Ok, we’ve been dealt a bit of a rough hand, but there’s no point in resting on our laurels.’ “Obviously, it’s very hard to plan for something like the pandemic, but we were fortunate that we already had some of the infrastructure in place when it came time to pivot in March, April and May. Being a bakery business with a small team, we could remain open. We were lucky, because if you’re a more mature business, it’s a lot harder to pivot and be nimble and make changes quickly. But being at a very early stage in our new location, it wasn’t as hard as it potentially has been for other businesses in our industry.
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When we originally started Voyageurs Sourdough Co. in a shared kitchen in 2018 (pre-COVID-19), we included a delivery option in our business model. By offering online ordering and managing deliveries inhouse with our staff, we were able to expand from one day to four days per week. And instead of having an open cafe, we began offering curbside service. When people arrived to pick up their orders, we ran out of the bakery and put them in their car or trunk or however they wanted to receive the bread. As the year has progressed and COVID-19 continues, it’s been hard to predict how trends are going to change and how customers will want to spend their money in the future. Every month has been a bit different. We continue to double- and tripledown on our take-out, home delivery and local wholesale options, expanding into Appleton and the surrounding area, as well as Door County. In 12 months’ time, we might actually look back and think, ‘What an amazing year we had.’ I really think it’s down to the mentality of the business owners and their teams to not only survive, but also make their businesses better. Regardless of COVID-19, you have to have that entrepreneurial spirit and daily hustle—and remember there’s light at the end of the tunnel.”
all CHOP: At Home Meal Kit orders also come with a cooking class ‘to-go,’ we’ve found that people actually order food they’re unfamiliar with, since they can learn along with me. Our favorite compliment is when customers post pictures of their kids following along with the instructional videos and doing the cooking. Learning new skills during this uncertain time helps people stay upbeat and productive, so we love being part of that. In November, our newest offering is CHOP: Live, featuring virtual cooking classes using Zoom. Anyone can sign up! Participants learn
live—step-by-step—how to prepare everything from brunch recipes and appetizers to kid-friendly snacks. “One of the biggest highlights of this crazy year is watching our staff step it up even more than normal, really hustling to keep our doors open and our lights on. We believe we offer a beautiful space, amazing service and delicious food, but being able to pivot and work so hard on an entirely new business model—and having it so well received—has really been amazing to watch.”
“CHOP: At Home Meal Kit is entertainment + quality family time + cooking with your family, so it really is a win-win.” - Jyll Everman
“Everyone has an opportunity to figure out a new reality of what business will look like moving forward. I’d encourage other owners not to sit back and hope everything will go back to the way it was … it’s all about taking a look at your business and working towards making it happen.” - Ben Cadman, Voyageurs Sourdough Co.
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Farmers’ markets shift during COVID Markets make safety and comfort (food) a priority Executive Director Leah Weycker recaps the continued success of the Military Avenue Business District’s traditional “no-frills” farmer’s market on Military, despite COVID-19. “Being a year-round operation, we had the benefit of already running a market when the pandemic hit. We were in our indoor ‘winter market mode.’ To accommodate the new safety guidelines, we moved the essential vendors outside, among other protocols. “As we transitioned into our normal ‘summer market mode,’ we saw a huge increase in attendance, as well as a variety of local populations frequenting the market. This was positive in that people were accessing local food, keeping our small businesses afloat by purchasing their products.
The 103rd season of the Saturday Farmer’s Market presented by Downtown Green Bay, Inc. (DGBI), looked a bit different. Farmer’s Market Manager Tessah Dolata explains how the community came together in the Riverwalk Plaza and Washington Professional Building parking lots downtown to ensure a safe and bountiful event for all. “Like any other year, we began the planning stages of the 2020 farmer’s market in January, anticipating to start (as usual) in May. At that time—preCOVID-19—we weren’t thinking of changing anything in regard to logistics or materials. But by April we started to see things escalate, and in the news huge festivals across the state were being canceled. “Thus began the very intense researching phase. During that period, I was considering how we could rework the market to accommodate the new pandemic best practices. It wasn’t until about one month out from the start date that we arrived at three different scenarios of how possibly to proceed: A. have the market on the street as usual, B. adopt a modified and condensed market format or C. the market doesn’t happen. 32 Collective IMPACT | Fall 2020
“I think the surge in customers was partly due to the style of our market appealing to the COVID19-conscious shopper, and the fact that it was easy to access. This summer, around 40 vendors, including food trucks, were spread out between two sides across the entire Green Bay Plaza parking lot located to the south of West Mason Street and Military Avenue. Everyone had a lot more room to move around, with a car-length between each vendor space and wide aisles. Customers at each booth stood in line six feet apart, and those who came in groups stayed together. We were grateful to receive the Wisconsin Partnership Program 2019 COVID-19 Response Grant through Wello, which was a great asset and helped with procuring all of the extra safety equipment needed. Some of our COVID-19 protocol included: • Products being sold individually wrapped and ready-to-eat food in to-go packaging.
“Just like businesses affected by the pandemic, the livelihood of these makers and farmers was at stake. So many people benefit from this event, and closing the market in its entirety was a last resort. The community also needs access to locally grown foods and fresh produce downtown. Supporting the local food economy is so important; it’s much bigger than our organization. “Although we’d never planned an event of this scale in just a few weeks, within that very short timeframe we decided to pursue option B with necessary social distancing guidelines and hygiene protocols in place. From the beginning, we worked closely with local officials and partners at the Brown County Health Department to ensure the safety of vendors, staff and attendees at our essential food market. With funds received from the Wisconsin Partnership Program 2019 COVID-19 Response Grant through Wello, we purchased all staff personal protective equipment (PPE), hand washing equipment, hand sanitizer stands and general signage.
In less than a month’s time, we were very grateful to secure the new parking lot location and communicated details to our vendors and community. (We wouldn’t have a market without our vendors and community!) There were many
• No picnic tables or chairs, to promote progression through the market. • Highly encouraging the wearing of masks. • Hand sanitizer and hand washing stations readily available. • Prominent signage. “This has been a really challenging year for everyone, but we have so much more information now than what we started with originally. I think people grew during the summer months, in the sense of understanding the spread of COVID-19 and how severe consequences can be if guidelines aren’t followed. At the time of publication, our hope is to stay outside as long as possible. If we do need to move indoors due to the cold or inclement
nights I was up at 2 a.m. with things going through my brain, scrambling to write down some detail I had just remembered … (as an event planner, I’m naturally always trying to fix issues as they arise). “It was a very good crowd, averaging around 3,500 people each weekend, even when it was raining! But at no point did we feel like it was ever too crowded. DGBI staff were positioned at both entrances to help control traffic. It was a very comfortable flow. “One Saturday, I remember observing the crowd like I always do. I noticed people stopping to talk with each other while socially distancing and wearing masks. I think what really hit me is that they were just talking about life— not the pandemic.There was laughter, there was music…that’s probably my favorite part, and the day I realized we made this work. We were still able to have the feel of the market; it just looked slightly different.
weather, we’re going to be very limited in terms of space. “That being said, there was just something about this year’s markets and how we all pulled together... it was the best I’ve seen in years. Everyone understood that we were offering an essential service for each other. Overall, there was an inspiring and overarching sense of respect among vendors and customers alike. We all worked together to make it a safe place to be.”
“Shopping local ensures that food will be available in the community, because it allows the community’s farmers to keep their livelihoods by supplying fresh ingredients.”
Find out more about the outdoor Market on Military at militaryave.org/ news/market-on-military.
- Leah Weycker
“It was a beautiful creation that we brought to fruition. But I’m not just a one-(wo)man ship. The reason this market was able to happen during a public health crisis was very much a combined effort. We also need to thank the vendors and attendees. “While I may have been able to facilitate the opportunity, everyone had to do their part to accept and follow the new guidelines. We were very firm about that and needed everyone to cooperate in order to make this market a safe success. I think it just goes to show how resilient our community is.” Added dates and information about the Saturday Farmer’s Market are posted on the DGBI website: downtowngreenbay. com/explore/downtown-events/ saturday-farmers-market.
“It took me a few months to really feel like we did this. Even now, it’s hard to look back and think that we actually lived through it. The farmers’ market is so important to many, and I didn’t want to let anyone down.” - Tessah Dolata
Fall 2020 | Collective IMPACT 33
Brian Johnson, executive director of On Broadway, Inc., reflects on how the Farmers’ Market on Broadway reinvented the community’s Wednesday night social epicenter to provide an outlet exclusively for shoppers.
“Historically with other pandemics, organizations like ours are credited with re-establishing feelings of comfort and safety by creating opportunities for people to return to public life. Humans are social beings and our organization exists to facilitate those social interactions. Pandemic protocol is designed to be the opposite. When it’s safe for people to return to public events, we’ll be ready to provide a quality experience that works to break down the psychological barriers that are naturally occurring.” - Brian Johnson
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“This year, the Farmers’ Market on Broadway looked nothing like locals are accustomed to seeing. But fortunately for everyone, the state government deemed farmers’ markets as an essential food source, and research demonstrated that shopping experiences with an outdoor market proved to be safer. “As one might imagine, coordinating largescale community events can be upwards of a six-month planning process. For all intents and purposes, our event was planned and ready to go for a late May start. Then COVID-19 hit in March and we made some modifications, but still anticipated that we could start the year as normal. “However, we quickly learned that it was going to be a monitoring process, and every day provided new information. We created multiple scenarios so that we could pivot quickly based on what circumstances would allow. “Soon we were planning for a July 1 start date. Then at one point we entertained the thought that we may not be able to host it at all. Ultimately, we launched the market just one week later than expected, but with many modifications after working closely with the City of Green Bay, Department of Health Services and Brown County Health Department. Many of the adjustments were mandated by local government, while others were made as a matter of practicality given the new environment of the pandemic. • We moved the location from Broadway to Leicht Memorial Park. • Our average daily attendance dropped from more than 10,000 to 1,500, which meant that we could shorten the shopping window from five to three hours.
• We created a single-file entrance so we could impose capacity limits per 1,000 square feet with one-way directionals, sanitizing stations and contactless shopping (no handling of food products by shoppers). • Vendors and volunteers (later changed to include attendees, as well) were required to wear face coverings. • Vendor spaces were spread farther apart. • All nonessential vendors (such as those who offer crafts, prepared food, live music and beverage sales) weren’t allowed into this year’s market. Our hope was to be able to reintroduce some of those vendors as the season went on, because we recognize that those are small business owners as well ... but unfortunately we weren’t able to secure that approval. Initially we also thought that we could return to the Historic Broadway District at some point to bring that foot traffic back to our small business community, but that wasn’t possible, either. “Most of the modifications made to this event will hold only as long as the pandemic is a threat. In reality, it’s not a financially viable model in its current format, but we persisted nonetheless because we wanted to honor our relationships with the vendors and Broadway businesses who rely on this event to drive foot traffic to their stores. “The proceeds from special events hosted in the Broadway District are what supports our year-round programming. But this year cost considerations had to be made, because hosting the event each week is an expensive endeavor— especially when revenue-generating components were eliminated. The modified market also forced us to reduce staff, including those who manage the market. But ultimately we feel we made the best of a bad situation.
We’re incredibly grateful to Investors Community Bank as the title sponsor of the market. Without its support, we wouldn’t have been able to host a market at all because it would have been too costly to do so without financial support. Wello also provided a substantial Wisconsin Partnership Program 2019 COVID-19 Response Grant to ensure we could continue to offer fresh foods to our community. “In the end, change is hard and uncomfortable. Any time you adjust a longstanding tradition (like the Farmers’ Market on Broadway) it takes some time for people to establish new habits. We learned a few things along the way, and the public did as well. Some changes were welcomed, while others were questioned … but that’s just human nature to want to fix things. “The vast majority of people welcomed the safe environment we created and were willing to ‘play by the new rules.’ We began to recognize the regular weekly shoppers who showed up to support their local farmers. We’re really appreciative of that, because we weren’t sure what to expect. For those who continued to visit, they did so because they felt we made the adjustments necessary to create a safe and welcoming environment for them. That was the goal—while still finding a way to attract sufficient visitors to support our local farmers and food producers. “It’s moments like this when you quickly realize how incredibly fortunate we are to live in a community that is so generous and giving. People come together in Green Bay when it matters most, and we’re grateful for their support.” Keep up with the happenings of On Broadway, Inc., at downtowngreenbay.com.
Fall 2020 | Collective IMPACT 35
CELEBRATION OF MANUFACTURING MONTH In honor of Manufacturing Month last month, we hosted a Celebration of Manufacturing Month all month long, showcasing the impact manufacturing has on our region’s economy in various communication channels. Read on to learn specifics on the importance of this industry segment to Greater Green Bay and the state.
36 Collective IMPACT | Fall 2020
Highlights from our very strong manufacturing industry.
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Fall 2020 | Collective IMPACT 39
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