Gundersen Health System: Together, the Impossible Become Possible by La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017

GUNDERSEN

HEALTH SYSTEM:

Together, the Impossible Becomes Possible

CHAMBER LEADERSHIP EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Joe Poehling - Chair First Supply, LLC Ed Jaekel - Chair-Elect JRM CPAs, LLC Lynn Bruns, Vice-Chair Elect (Secretary) ISG Joe Kruse - Past Chair Mayo Clinic Health System Randy Berg - Treasurer Trane Bruce Friell Gundersen Health System Forrest Moe Schomburg Refrigeration Co., Inc.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Kerstin Boudreau Metre

Chris Butler Verve, a Credit Union Jansen Dahl Dahl Automotive La Crosse Brad Dinsmoor Dinsmoor Strategies Rick Eickmeier, Board Advisor Anytime Fitness, Onalaska Wendy Franke, Board Advisor N2 Publishing A.J. Frels, Ex-Officio Explore La Crosse James Hill, Ex-Officio La Crosse Area Development Corporation (LADCO) Mark Hughes, Board Advisor Candlewood Suites Scott Kish Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home, Inc. Sue Kolve-Feehan The Salon Professional Academy Steve Loehr Kwik Trip Robin Moses, Ex-Officio Downtown Mainstreet, Inc. Barbara Nick Dairyland Power Cooperative

Aspiration: A Leap of Faith A colleague I admire greatly, Adam Legge at the Calgary Chamber, had a newsletter quote that came at a very poignant time – when I had hit the peak of my belief in analyzing, changing and cutting our programs and services to maximize accountability to you, our investor. Adam stated (paraphrasing) It is important to think about efficiencies and reduction - to be lean and productive. But this kind of thinking sets a floor, not a ceiling. It is not aspirational. After three years, our team has touched every moving piece of the Chamber. We’ll continue to innovate, but it’s time to become aspirational. LETTING YOU DECIDE Working in a minimizing mindset too long warped my version of reality into believing our members want to spend less. As proof, when Chamber leaders asked, “What keeps you up at night?” I responded, “Hitting our member’s giving capacity.” Joe Kruse (Mayo Clinic) provided my ah-ha moment (paraphrasing), “Tell us what you need and the members will decide if they have capacity.” Of course! By assuming, I was removing your ability to choose and provide feedback! I realized that many of our members don’t necessarily want to spend less, they want to understand how their investment is being spent. ASPIRING STRATEGIES One year ago, our Chamber leadership approached our strategic plan / plan of work asking, “What do our members need?” When our Chamber is viewed as problem solvers, our funding issues are solved.

Cindy Prindle Western Technical College

Problem #1: workforce. Problem #2 (driven by our large businesses, but impacting all): advocacy – the ability to change taxation, transportation and other key issues at the local, state and national level.

Brandon Prinsen Johns, Flaherty & Collins, SC

ENTER: THE #1 PROBLEM OF NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

JoAnn Steffes Steffes HR Advantage

Strategies (minus) resources = squat. It’s like trying to develop a new product without spending any money on research and development. With a team at capacity, new initiatives fall on me. I am the human definition of a traffic jam – so much is trying to get through that traffic inches along. That is not the solution.

Steven Nicolai Nicolai Apartments

Brenda Stuhr Trust Point, Inc. Jodi Widuch The Parenting Place Jeff Wieser Wieser Brothers General Contractor, Inc.

ENTER: CHIN-CHIN, A LEAP OF FAITH Our talent development strategies were put on hold awaiting results from 7 Rivers Alliance’s workforce development plan known as WISE. With WISE funding ending September 30 and the subsequent move to implementation, the main lead on the plan, Chin-Chin Minniear, was looking for her next opportunity. Her resume includes work at political offices in Washington DC. As everyone knows, there are only two ways to remove a traffic jam – reduce the traffic or create a new route. Chin-Chin is our new route to fuel the Chamber’s talent development and advocacy efforts. In a leap of faith that our members will respond positively to the new initiatives in 2018, we have expanded our team with ChinChin’s 16 hours of work a week. Let the traffic flow! 2018: TELLING OUR 150 YEAR OLD STORY As everyone knows, there are only two ways to remove a traffic jam – reduce the traffic or create a new route. Chin-Chin is our new route to fuel the Chamber’s talent development and advocacy efforts. In a leap of faith that our members will respond positively to the new initiatives in 2018, we have expanded our team with ChinChin’s 16 hours of work a week. Let the traffic flow! We need to fix our other problem in 2018 – members wanting to know how we’re investing their dollars. We have a communication problem. I pledge that you will see more effective communication in 2018, the kind that provides you with the information you want and need. Our communication will detail how we’re maximizing your investment.

Vicki Markussen Executive Director

Cover Story: Gunderson Health System: Together the Impossible Becomes Possible...............Pages 4 - 5 Table of Contents CHAMBER EVENTS RECAP........................................................................................... 3 WHY WE’RE IN THIS TRANSPORTATION MESS ��6 YOUNG PROFESSIONALS HOUSING CONVERSATION.........................................6 ROCKSTARS...................................................................................................................... 7 INTRODUCING CHAMBER MEMBER BENEFITS �� 7 YOUNG PROFESSIONALS............................................................................................. 7 HOW TO MAXIMIZE YOUR MEMBERSHIP................................................................8 RIBBON CUTTINGS..........................................................................................................9 UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS................................................................................. 10 INTRODUCING B2B Q&A............................................................................................... 11 OKTOBERFEST IN THE CAPITOL............................................................................... 12 MARKETING COMMITTEE UPDATE.......................................................................... 13 BUSINESS EXPO SPOTLIGHT..................................................................................... 13 CONNECTING MEMBERS TO MEMBERS.................................................................. 14 SAVE THE DATE: CELEBRATION!.............................................................................. 14

Contact THE

Chamber

VICKI MARKUSSEN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 608-784-4880 ext. 6 vicki@lacrossechamber.com STEVE BISSEN, BUSINESS OUTREACH DIRECTOR 608-784-4880 ext. 5 steve@lacrossechamber.com MAGGIE CHRISTIAN, MARKETING & EVENTS DIRECTOR 608-784-4880 ext. 4 maggie@lacrossechamber.com RANDY FISCHER, ACCOUNTANT 608-784-4880 ext. 3 randy@lacrossechamber.com. CHIN-CHIN MINNIEAR, MPP TALENT DEVELOPMENT & ADVOCACY DIRECTOR 608-784-4880 ext. 7 chin-chin@lacrossechamber.com JAMI REDENBAUGH, RECEPTIONIST 608-784-4880 jami@lacrossechamber.com

Magazine Layout by Jacob Klatte jmklattedesign@gmail.com

For the community that believes in itself, there’s a bank that does, too.

At U.S. Bank, we’re dedicated to helping improve the lives of those in our community, because when people come together with a common goal, the impossible suddenly becomes possible. Our support means funding and volunteering in the programs and organizations that make our community a better place to live. visit a branch | 800.USBANKS (872.2657) | usbank.com U.S. Bank is proud to support the La Crosse Chamber of Commerce. La Crosse Branch 201 Main St., Suite 100 608.782.8101

Chamber Events RECAP The Forum, August 14: Enlightening Mark Stoering (Xcel Energy - Michigan and Wisconsin) (bottom right in pic) spoke at the August Forum on Xcel being ahead of cyber-security and becoming the #1 wind energy company in the United States. Mike Huebsch (Public Service Commission) (bottom left in pic) stated our diversity of power sources - wind, coal, natural gas - is tremendously beneficial. He’s watching energy efficiency programs increase, biodigesters come online and energy storage enhancements improving capacity in the future. Barb Nick (Dairyland Power Cooperative) spoke to their use of coal, renewable energy sources from Minnesota and solar power.

The Forum

September 14 at Co-Op Credit Union Attendees built relationships in a fun, tailgate-themed environment at September’s Business After Hours at Co-Op Credit Union. Food from Serves Your Right Catering and drinks from Pearl Street Brewery along with themed games including bean bag toss and a football throw contest, combined for an exciting evening of business and community connections.

October 12 at La Crosse Sign Group La Crosse Sign Group hosted October’s Business After Hours and provided guests with a rare insider view of a manufacturing facility including tours of the facility and signs in several stages of development from local businesses including Kwik Trip and Trane. Food from 4 Sisters Wine and Tapas Bar and drink from Lost Lake Pilsner Beer, along with festive decor, added to the evening and transformed La Crosse Sign Group’s new, expanded space - intended to provide a clean environment for the finishing stages of their signs.

GUNDERSEN

HEALTH SYSTEM:

Together, the Impossible Becomes Possible Gundersen Health System works every day

This goes beyond bringing patients

Gundersen is thinking outside the box, beyond

with a single purpose: to enrich every life. This

comprehensive, compassionate care

traditional methods of care for stronger,

includes every patient; every family member;

close to home with visits from Gundersen

healthier communities. But they recognize

every visitor; and every co-worker.

specialists to local clinics, or using the latest

they can’t do it alone. Gundersen values and

in telemedicine technology for checkups,

actively seeks opportunities to partner with

While Gundersen clinicians and staff work

while saving patients time, money and stress

local businesses and organizations.

each day to fulfill this purpose at five

of traveling to appointments in La Crosse. It

hospitals and more than 60 clinics in western

even goes beyond the nearly 23,000 people

Wisconsin, southeast Minnesota and northeast

who benefitted from worksite screenings and

Iowa, the care they provide extends outside

education from Gundersen Business Health

their physical walls to enhance the health and

and Gundersen Community and Preventive

well-being of the communities they serve.

Care Services in 2016.

THE BEST OF GUNDERSEN AND THE Y… FOR THE COMMUNITY

“I am proud Gundersen participated in this effort in a meaningful way, but did so in cooperation and coordination with multiple area resources, Gundersen and the La Crosse Area Family YMCA opened

each of which could not have accomplished this alone,” says Gundersen CEO Scott Rathgaber, MD. “Together, the impossible becomes possible.”

ENCOURAGING A COMMUNITY IN MOTION

the La Crosse

Each spring, Gundersen gets the community moving with its Minutes in

area’s first Healthy

Motion activity challenge. In the first 10 years of Minutes in Motion, more

Living Center to

than 41,000 people of all ages participated and logged a total of 47.5

foster healthy

million minutes of physical activity.

lifestyles and helps

Everyone who completes 30 minutes of activity every day during Minutes

community members seamlessly transition from Gundersen medical

in Motion is eligible for incentives, including a $500 grand prize courtesy

care to Y-supervised programming. The Healthy Living Center allows

of the Ho-Chunk Nation. Gundersen and community partners also offer

Gundersen to target prevention and early intervention, and advances

additional prizes for eligible businesses and classrooms.

Gundersen’s and the Y’s mission of improving the health and well-being in the communities they serve.

RETHINKING HELP FOR THE HOMELESS The La Crosse Collaborative to End Homelessness, which includes Gundersen and many community partners, set an audacious goal in September 2016: end homelessness among Veterans in La Crosse within 100 days. The collaborative not only met their goal, they achieved it by Christmas Day 2016.

ENVISIONING A HEALTHIER ENVIRONMENT In 2008, Gundersen made the commitment to improve the health of the communities it serves and control rising energy costs by reducing consumption through improving efficiency and creating cleaner energy. Through its Gundersen Envision sustainability program, Gundersen is the first healthcare system in the

medical residents; improved connections to city trail systems through enhancements to the VIP walking trail on the Gundersen La Crosse Campus; the construction of Gundersen Hotel & Suites; completion of lighted pedestrian corridors on 5thAvenue, and 6th and 7th Streets; support of city housing replacement and restoration efforts; renovation of Powell Park; programming and planning support at Hamilton Elementary, including the Gundersen Global Partners mentorship program; and continued exploration of future development opportunities in the neighborhood.

FARM2SCHOOL…FOR HEALTHIER KIDS AND FAMILIES Gundersen is proud to support Coulee Region Farm2School, a

country to produce more energy than it consumes. It has removed

partnership between Gundersen, the La Crosse County Health

70 million pounds of fossil fuel carbon dioxide from the atmosphere

Department, Mayo Clinic Health System – Franciscan Healthcare,

over nearly a decade, saves $2.5 million per year in energy costs, and

and the School Districts of Bangor, Holmen, La Crescent-Hokah,

purchases local materials and contracts with local companies to

La Crosse, Onalaska, and West Salem. The program offers Coulee

support the regional economy.

Region students access to fresh, locally grown foods and educational experiences that foster understanding of where their food comes from and how their food choices impact their bodies, the environment and their community. “We found that by having the kids help with food preparation, they were willing to share their experiences with their families and enjoy for a lifetime,” says Gundersen executive chef Thomas Sacksteder, CEC. “This experience of educating students in the Farm2school program is the greatest gift I’ve ever had.”

SUPPORTING NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION AND INVESTMENT For more than a decade, Gundersen has partnered with the city of La Crosse, residents and community organizations to enhance revitalization efforts in the historic Powell-Poage-Hamilton Neighborhood (PPH). With a 2013 neighborhood and campus plan as the playbook, a variety of goals have been achieved in the last year alone, including the construction of housing in PPH for Gundersen

Why We’re in this Transportation Mess Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance’s Todd Berry Explains How We Got Here Note from Vicki Markussen, Chamber executive director: Your Chamber dues make events and hence articles like this possible. We know you can’t always always show up, but we appreciate your membership investment. Thank you. THE PROBLEM

methods currently used for funding:

We have a dated transportation system and an out-of-date financing system. This is not news, began Todd Berry, head of the highly respected across party aisles, non-profit, membership-based organization known as the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance. Berry says our transportation problem has been studied through committees, task forces, and commission.

1) Gas tax (30.9-centers/gallon)

In the context of economic impact, Barry continued, “States that have invested more in infrastructure tend to have greater output, more private investment and more employment growth.” In Wisconsin, our strong manufacturing, trucking and agriculture industries are heavily dependent on our transportation system. Our wages are heavily dependent on these sectors, said Berry, “25% of all wages are paid in these sectors.” Impact of these industries - whether positive or negative - is significant, rippling 2-3 times into other area businesses.Negative impacts on these industries are likewise felt by all.

2) Vehicle Registration ($75) 53.7% of our funding is paid through gas tax while 35.7% is paid through registration fees. Increased vehicle efficiency has resulted in lower funding through the gas tax. “The problem in Wisconsin is we have a dated revenue sharing system being used to support an aged, dated transportation,” Berry said. “These taxes are flat. They don’t say 10% of the cost of gasoline or 10% of what a vehicle is worth. If the economy grows, these just sit there and don’t grow.” Berry further points out that our aging population and lower school enrollment levels suggest residents are driving less, yielding less tax collected.

“For every 1,000 jobs lost to poor infrastructure, as many as 3,000 are lost elsewhere in the Wisconsin economy.

Berry shared that we have $1.9 billion in new revenue. “There is no problem in the budget in terms of tax revenue - we have a percentage of wage income and sales tax. These go up with economic growth. We have a design problem. Transportation funding just hangs out there due to its funding source.”

THE IMPACT OF THE INTERSTATE

OTHER STATES

Barry notes that certain counties outperforming others in the state - Green Bay to Appleton to Oshkosh to Fond du Lac down to Milwaukee, over to Dane, over to La Crosse up to Eau Claire and over to St. Croix.

Other states have turned to tolls and a state sales tax, Berry said. Mississippi has a personal property tax on vehicles, “People don’t like to think of it that way, but your vehicle is a piece of property.”

“The key is the interstate system,” said Berry. “The more you are removed, the more the economy declines. This corresponds to housing values.”

According to the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance, Wisconsin’s spending costs on transportation is not any different when we factor in a per-mile cost. We are below IA, IL, and MN. Similarly, Wisconsin is not above the average of other states in terms of transportation revenue.

THE HOUSEHOLD COST OF POOR ROADS The cost to a driver due to poor roads is: * Madison: $974/year

DEBT SERVICE

* Milwaukee: $861/year

Back in 2001-2002, the state was borrowing money and having debt management as a result, said Berry, “We have fallen in love with debt borrowing for transportation funding.”

THE PROBLEM WITH WHO PAYS AND HOW? “The question is which pocket pays for transportation,” Berry said. “The personal or the public revenue?” Berry explains there are two narrow

Governor Walker continued to borrow. Debt service has increased to $1 billion per year, with 6-7% being spent on debt service rising to 20-25%. Berry said we’re using a flat tax to pay for debt, creating a debt squeeze. SOLUTION: IT’S COMING: TOLLS Berry noted that in Wisconsin many individuals already have an iPass for Illinois’ tolls. “The public is ahead of the politicians - people can justifiably think of transportation as a utility similar to water and gas. It is a true user charge. You can dial up during peak times of day to regulate congestion.” The process is simplified with Colorado and Toronto sending bills to users. “This tells you where the market is going to end up,” he says. He believes the timing may be good. LOCAL SOLUTIONS When looking at local options, the focus was the creation of the Regional Transportation Cooperative: a group of contiguous cities - if their local municipalities approved, and voters can vote - could create a regional transportation cooperative that makes regional sense with the state subsequently sharing a menu of funding options (ex. wheel tax, additional tax on sales tax, personal property tax) that could be accessed by a cooperative seeking a regional solution to these issues. If done cooperatively, property taxes for transportation could no longer be collected, removing the top-down approach.

Governor Doyle pulled out $1.4 billion from the transportation fund, then he borrowed.

Rock Stars

Connect. Grow. Advocate. is the bedrock of the Chamber. Here we Spotlight some people who help us continue to build on that foundation. Members of our Ambassadors group helped raise funds by selling spots in the Chamber’s parking lot during La Crosse’s Oktoberfest weekend. Thank you to RICK EICKMEIER (ANYTIME FITNESS), TIM OLIVER (US BANK) and MORIAH CODY (AMERIPRISE FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.).

Introducing

Chamber Member Benefits

We’re excited to announce the 2018 Young Professionals of the Coulee Region Chair, Spencer Hegenbarth. Spencer is currently

With a membership where more than 60% are small businesses with

a realtor with RE/MAX First Choice - Brian Stephan. Please

twelve or fewer employees, we know your time is valuable and every

help us welcome and congratulate Spencer! If interested in YP

penny counts. We’re excited to introduce the following high-value

membership, please visit www.lacrossechamber.com/young-

benefits intended to help you do more with your resources. For more

professionals/ or email yp@lacrossechamber.com

information, please visit www.lacrossechamber.com

Young Professionals

OFFICE DEPOT / OFFICE MAX This partnership offers steep discounts and special perks on products and services you use most, including: ◊ Up to a 55% discount off market price on a 350 item core office supply list ◊ FREE next-day delivery on any order over $50 ◊ Up to a 5% discount off retail value on all items in Office Depot / Office Max retail stores CONSTANT CONTACT As a one-stop shop for your small business marketing needs, you’ll receive: ◊ Up to 25% off ◊ 20% off 6 months prepaid services and 25% off 12 months prepaid ◊ FREE phone support and live online support

DENTAL & VISION INSURANCE Offered through a partnership with Ameritas Insurance, these dental and vision insurance plans allow you to offer your employees the freedom of choice and keep you business attractive to potential employees. Key points include: ◊ Applicable to businesses with 3+ employees ◊ Annual open enrollment included

2018 Young Professionals Chair

◊ Flexible and affordable coverage

By Spencer Hegenbarth, Chair

The format of our committees has been altered from three separate groups back into one larger advisory board. We expect this format to yield better participation and idea sharing for future events to expand the size, participation and enjoyment of our luncheons and socials. We held our October monthly luncheon at C & C Machinery with a great turnout and many YPs interested in the inside view of one of our area manufacturers. Our October social was held at La Crosse Beverage in Onalaska. In November, we’ll celebrate the longevity of Wisconsin Public Broadcasting and hear their inspiring centennial story. Later in the month, we’ll enjoy a night with the La Crosse Symphony Orchestra, complete with a welcome social at the Cargill-Pettibone House. Membership has seen an uptick over the last month and our advisory committee’s goal is to be over 200 members by January.

New

Business Programs: Digital Marketing & Hospitality Management

IN DEMAND westerntc.edu

HOW TO MaXimize YOUR MEMBERSHIP

STEVE BISSEN – BUSINESS OUTREACH DIRECTOR

This year’s column has covered a variety of ideas on how you can

As you’re reading, it’s likely early November, with the crazy, stressful

maximize your membership: volunteering, advertising, getting your

holiday season knocking at the door. On top of the events and

team involved, utilizing the MIC (Member Information Center) and

activities, time off, travel and general busyness, year end issues are

more. What have you tried in your membership that pushed you out

also clamoring for our attention. It’s no wonder this time of year is

of your comfort zone? Do you have a success story (or frustration) to

filled with high stress and anxiety for so many.

share? Either way, I’d love to hear from you.

In late August or early September, you received a mailing from the

One item we haven’t covered is sponsorship. The Chamber offers

Chamber that included a stylish, new window cling recognizing

a mix of sponsorship opportunities to businesses of all sizes and

your membership in the La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce. Is it

budgets, to help you raise awareness and recognition for your

displayed in your business, or buried under a pile on your desk? Can’t

business. We’ve officially entered “sponsorship season” for 2018

find yours? Let me know. I’ll swing by and drop one off.

and would be happy to chat with you about our current options and help you customize the package that fits your organization’s aspirations. If sponsorship isn’t in your immediate future, let’s talk anyway. We want to hear your thoughts on your membership and chat about the successes and struggles you’re currently facing and where we may be able to help alleviate your struggles and shout your successes. Call the office at 608-784-4880 or drop me a line: steve@ lacrossechamber.com

As you head full force into the busy holiday season, keep an eye out for those Chamber window clings on display at your favorite local businesses – and be sure to thank them for their membership. Share your connection as a fellow member and your gratitude for their commitment to helping make the Chamber and our community great. It’s an invaluable way to pause and recognize another member in spite of the hustle and bustle of the weeks ahead and an important reminder that we’re all in this together!

When life hands you lemons, invest in a lemonade stand.

Get some more advice from Merv at

mervsays.com

Membership eligibility required. Federally insured by NCUA.

Ribbon Cuttings

GENSLER September 25. To mark the opening of their new location in Belle Square.

GUNDERSEN CREDIT UNION October 5. To celebrate their expansion providing them triple the space.

IC SYSTEM August 29. To mark their 10 year anniversary in Onalaska.

Schedule a ribbon cutting or groundbreaking ceremony through the Chamber by contacting info@lacrossechamber.com at least two weeks in advance.

GO RITEWAY September 26. Groundbreaking on their new school bus depot.

GUNDERSEN HOTEL & SUITES August 31. Grand opening of Gundersen Hotel & Suites

MCDONALD’S RESTAURANT September 19. To celebrate the remodel of their George Street location.

Helping to keep the lights on, businesses running and communites strong®

RIVERFRONT/APTIV

October 5. To celebrate the unveiling of their new name and brand identity: Aptiv

atcllc.com

Upcoming Chamber Events November 9 at Dahl Subaru Join Dahl Subaru in La Crosse for Business After Hours. Enjoy complimentary drinks and appetizers while touring our brand new dealership and learning about all of the eco-friendly initiatives we included in the project. Dahl Automotive has been serving the Coulee Region for over 100 years. Our servant led organization is passionate about transforming the auto industry by providing an exceptional guest experience.

There Will Be No Business After Hours in December

Get Ahead for 2018 Hosting a Business After Hours places you in a unique position to reinforce your brand identity and raise awareness around new initiatives, programs or facility expansions that impact how your business relates with the community. We’re currently filling host spaces for Business After Hours in 2018. If interested, please reach out to info@lacrossechamber.com

Sketches of Spain Nov 18 Indulge in a night of elegance at Viterbo University’s Fine Arts Center with La Crosse Symphony Orchestra as they perform four masterworks of the Spanish tradition, featuring Gabriela Martinez’s debut on piano. These Spanish-flavored works will take you on an adventure halfway around the world with their beautiful composition and stunning orchestration. A presocial event, complete with appetizers and drinks, will be held at the Cargill-Pettibone House from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. before the performance. Please pre-register by Wednesday, November 15 at www.lacrossechamber.com Available to members of the Young Professionals group and other local young professionals.

of Wisconsin

Volunteer. Work. Educate. Dec 6 Join us for this month’s educational session presented by Junior Achievement and their local business

volunteers. You’ll hear the important work that Junior Achievement does in our community for talent engagement and workforce retention focused on our high school students. Local business volunteers will share their own motivations for partnering with JA and the return on investment in their personal and professional lives. Hosted at the La Crosse Area Chamber from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. Lunch will be served. Please pre-register online by Monday, December 4. Only available to members of the Young Professionals.

Introducing

B2B Q&A

This series allows you, our members, to get advice on the struggles and questions that keep you up at night. With 68% of our members qualifying as small businesses, we understand your need and desire to draw from the specialized knowledge of your peers. Submit your question to newsletter@ lacrossechamber.com We’ll send it out anonymously to a segment of our members who are best suited to provide answers and you’ll find the responses in each edition of the Chamber Connection magazine

Q: FOR A BUSINESS WITH FEWER THAN 50 FULL-TIME EQUIVALENT EMPLOYEES, IS THERE A WAY TO FAIRLY AND LEGALLY WITHDRAW HEALTH CARE COVERAGE TO ITS EMPLOYEES? ANY TIPS ON HOW TO DO THIS WELL WOULD BE APPRECIATED. ANSWER #1 - MARLIN HELGESON (PEOPLEFIRST HR SOLUTIONS) Things to know/consider:

• The Affordable Care Act does not require employers this size to offer healthcare benefits. • Look at the impact on your business and ask yourself:

◊ If your manpower is projected to be less or the same, do you risk retaining them?

- Will their loss impact business performance?

- What is the cost of turnover?

- Will they be difficult to replace given the low unemployment rate?

- Will lack of health insurance cause recruitment to be difficult?

◊ If healthcare affordability is an issue, when looking at how much you would save:

- Are you willing to compensate employees for the loss of coverage? If so, how much?

- How much of the health insurance is part of their total compensation package?

- Are you willing to increase pay, contribute more to their retirement plan, allow more paid time off, contribute

to a Qualified Small Employer Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) or provide some other increased

benefit in another area? Remember, these adjustments impact all of your employees, not just those currently

using your health plan.

◊ Look at the impact on your employees and ask:

- Will they qualify for a government subsidy under the Affordable Care Act? This will be difficult due to subsidies based on household income and type of coverage (single, family, etc.)

If you make the decision to withdraw healthcare benefits there is a need for considerable analysis, change management and open and honest communication far in advance of any adjustment.

ANSWER #2 - MARK GLAHN (EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT PROFESSIONALS) That is a tough question. Recently I was reviewing my health care plans for 2018. I decided to ask a few other small business owners what they are doing for health insurance for their core employees. Including my businesses, the majority of owners offer a full health care package. But a few are doing something a little different:

• One owner gives each core employee $1000 per quarter. It is taxed as regular income. The owner is calling it a

“quarterly benefit grant”

• Another owner gives a monthly stipend to each core employee I conducted a wage and benefit survey in 2016. Besides benefit questions, I asked local employers how they retain their workforce. The top three responses were as follows:

• Have a caring, family work environment • Pay competitively • Develop & train your people You may want to survey your employees to get a better idea on what they value. Lastly, I would also talk to your local business lawyer and

your current insurance agent to make sure you are getting proper legal advice. The Insurance Center has been a big help for me.

Oktoberfest in the Capitol: PRAT Opposition, Transportation Funding and More Stressed in Madison To approve or not to approve, that is the question asked every day in Madison. Every other year, the La Crosse Area Chamber invites Downtown Mainstreet (DMI), Explore La Crosse, 7 Rivers Alliance and the La Crosse Area Development Corporation to join us on our annual trip to the state capitol. Each group is invited to bring an issue that impacts what they do. The Oktoberfest Royal Family joins us for the day to add a fun flair to our visits. Together, we were 40 strong taking our area’s issues to the legislators.

For details on any of these issues, please view our 2017 issues paper at www.lacrossechamber.com/advocate

TRANSPORTATION FUNDING - SAY NO TO PRAT Lack of long-term transportation funding solutions is causing local communities to get creative about how to fix our aging infrastructure. As a result, inequitable solutions like the premier resort area tax (PRAT) are created. PRAT is an extra 1/2-cent tax collected at any businesses a tourist could walk into (e.x. fitness center, jewelry store, florist, canoe rental, campground, etc.) When surveyed, 67% of business members of the Chamber, DMI and Explore La Crosse are opposed to the tax. Our reasons can be found online at www.lacrossechamber.com/prat. On this trip, our ask was to find long-term transportation solutions to replace the problematic proposals the locals are creating, and don’t approve La Crosse County’s PRAT proposal due to the breadth and depth of problems it will create.

HISTORIC TAX CREDITS Proposed caps to the historic tax credits could impact whether an old building is developed or remains vacant. These credits have been key to many of the buildings, particularly in downtown La Crosse, being developed - with several more in the works. Our message was to keep these tax credits in place.

WORKFORCE RETENTION TAX CREDITS Our La Crosse area companies are struggling to attract highlyskilled talent in specialized fields such as engineering, information technology, accounting and architecture due to competition for these graduates at schools like UW-Milwaukee, Madison and the Milwaukee School of Engineering. Many graduates are lost to outof-state businesses. To assist with slowing the brain-drain, three tax credits coming out of the Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA) were presented that would be given to graduates in these key careers if they choose to stay in Wisconsin after graduation.

First and foremost, before we get into the issues, we want to thank you, our members, for making trips like this possible. A portion of your membership investment pays for us to organize trips like this that allow us to take your voice to Madison. We couldn’t do it without you.

TAP ROOMS & WINE TASTINGS We believe the idea is dead; however, it was proposed that tap rooms and wine tasting areas could not be operated by the establishment producing the alcohol. Due to the impact this would have on many of our alcohol-producing companies, our message was to ensure this idea did not receive the traction needed to get off the ground. THANK YOU & MORE TO COME: WISE PLAN The WISE plan - a 10-year workforce development plan - just completed by the 7 Rivers Alliance was primarily funded by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). WEDC receives its funds from the state government. We thanked the legislators for this good work of the WEDC and let them know that the 7 Rivers Alliance would be seeking additional funds. THANK YOU: LA CROSSE CENTER There was a time period where the $5 million contribution by the state of Wisconsin to our La Crosse Center was in jeopardy. This funding, however, was approved with the budget passing. We thanked them for this critical support.

More than 40 La Crosse area individuals took the spirit of Oktoberfest to our Madison capitol on Wednesday, October 11 to stress the importance of workforce retention tax credits, historic tax credits, transportation, tap rooms/wine tasting rooms and the collection of room tax on AirBnB locations.

Marketing Committee Update By Brad Dinsmoor, Chair

The marketing committee is in the process of developing a creative strategy for the Chamber which including an overarching message that reinforces the desired identity of the organization and positions the Chamber among other organizations serving the business community. A considerable amount of time has been invested to discuss the desired identity in comparison to what we feel are current perceptions of the organization. Chamber staff has been helpful providing data and other information needed to facilitate candid and productive discussions. A tagline/positioning statement will be developed that will be used in future messaging and will work in concert with our new chamber logo. Core messages will be developed considering strategic objectives. A marketing plan is being written which in will include creative and marketing strategies to provide more effective communication to our membership and the community.

Stories of Community Commitment & Business Endurance Spotlighted at This Year’s Business Expo Thank you to all sponsors, exhibitors and attendees for making this year’s event successful. A special thanks to Trust Point, Inc. and Dakota Supply Group (formerly W.A. Roosevelt) for presenting at breakfast and lunch.

GO AHEAD, DREAM BIG Reach your goals with proactive planning and timely advice from people who are passionate about your future.

WEALTH ADVISORY

Jackson Plaza La Crosse

608.784.2110

OUTSOURCING AUDIT, TAX, AND CONSULTING

La Crosse | 608-392-1600 CLAconnect.com

Connecting Members to Members The FRANCISCAN SPIRITUALITY CENTER

academic year. This new scholarship

VITERBO UNIVERSITY has added

will present “Deepening Engagement:

program was created to benefit the children

competitive dance and cheer and men’s

Essential Habits for Listening” with Diane

of Per Mar Security Services or Midwest

volleyball as varsity sports, with competition

Millis on Feb. 2-3 to explore different

Alarm Services employees. Children

set to begin in 2018-19. For more

approaches for listening deeply to oneself

of employees at Per Mar or Midwest could

information, contact Barry Fried at 608-796-

and others. Details at www.FSCenter.

apply for the scholarships to be used

3812 orbjfried@viterbo.edu.

org or 608-791-5295.

towards higher education.

JRM CPAS is proud to share that Julie

Spread Christmas cheer this season Doing

20 new $2,000 scholarships for students

(James) Modjeski was inducted into the

The Most Good! Ring bells for

majoring in education or engineering

Luther College Athletic Hall of Fame for her

THE SALVATION ARMY’S 2017 Red Kettle

who apply for admission to enroll in fall

outstanding achievements in Basketball on

Campaign! Shifts available 10am-8pm

2018. The priority deadline is Nov. 1. For

October 9, 2017. Julie is a staff accountant

Monday through Saturday at more than

more information, visitwww.viterbo.edu/

with JRM since 2004. Congratulations!

20 different locations! Sign up today at

affordable.

PER MAR SECURITY SERVICES, a leading

salacrosse.org

VITERBO UNIVERSITY will award up to

WESTERN TECHNICAL COLLEGE was

provider of total security solutions for

UPSCALE INTERNATIONAL LLC, founded

recently awarded a $5,000 grant from

residential and commercial clients based

by Melissa and Kevin Kadrmas, now offers

Campus Compact, a Boston-based nonprofit

in Davenport, IA, is pleased to announce it

contract recruiting and services including

that works to advance the public purposes

has promoted Scott Easter to Area Sales

LegalShield, IDShield, Karatbars 24K

of higher education. Western was one of

Manager for its Des Moines, Sioux City and

Gold Bullion accounts with free storage

40 recipients chosen. Part of the grant will

Fort Dodge branches.

and sets up local Karatbars Affiliates and

fund Western’s “Make Change Film Series

Dealers with KaratPay payment systems.

and Community Conversation,” running the

www.upscaleintl.com 608-385-6262

third Tuesday of every month through April.

PER MAR SECURITY SERVICES is pleased to announce it has awarded ten $500 scholarship awards for the 2017-2018

upscalemelissa@gmail.com

GUIDELINES FOR THE “CONNECTING MEMBERS TO MEMBERS” SECTION OF THE NEWSLETTER. Share your business developments with your fellow Chamber members. Submit items before the 10th of the month, no more than 40 words in length and limited to personnel news or changes, new ownership, merger or acquisitions, awards, change of location, expansions, remodeling, or sponsorship of community events. The Chamber reserves the right to edit items over 40 words in length. Submit your information to the Chamber at newsletter@lacrossechamber.com.

SAVE THE DATE CELEBRATION! Monday, March 5 5:15pm-8:00pm Event Sponsorship Opportunities Available

LOCATION La Crosse Center 300 Harborview Plaza La Crosse, WI 54601

Diamond Sponsors

Presorted Standard U.S. Postage

PAID

La Crosse, WI Permit No. 219 601 7th Street N. • La Crosse, WI 54601 Phone: 608-784-4880 • Fax: 608-784-4919 info@lacrossechamber.com www.lacrossechamber.com

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Gold Sponsors

Welcome New Members!

Silver Sponsors

LA CROSSE SHOWTIME, LLC

INSTY-PRINTS OF LA CROSSE

Playing at the La Crosse Center

2704 South Avenue

La Crosse, WI 54601

608.864.0662

608.788.5005

Lacrosseshowtime.com

Instylacrosse.com

Scott Pooler

Troy Beier

Performing Arts, Spectator Sports, and

Printing and Related Support Activities

Related Industries WEBER CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 428 Front Street South La Crosse, WI 54601 608.784.9292 Webercenterfortheperformingarts.org Dillon McArdle

FINANCE OF AMERICA MORTGAGE 200 Mason Street, Suite 200 Onalaska, WI 54650 608.433.0533 Financeofamerica.com Sarah Cash Mortgage Companies

Performing Arts, Spectator Sports, and

MY CHOICE FAMILY CARE

Related Industries

10201 W Innovation Drive

SUNSHINE FLORAL COMPANY 1903 George Street La Crosse, WI 54603 608.781.1903 Sunshinefloralshop.com Julie Yeager Florists ECONO LODGE 428 Front Street South La Crosse, WI 54601 608.784.9292 Webercenterfortheperformingarts.org Dillon McArdle Performing Arts, Spectator Sports, and Related Industries UW CREDIT UNION 521 East Ave N. Room 1135 La Crosse, WI 54601 800.533.6773 Uwcu.org Bradley Jensen Credit Union

Wauwatosa, WI 53226 414-287-7600 Mychoicefamilycare.org Daren Allen Individual and Family Services