JULY - AUGUST 2017
INTRODUCING A NEW MAYO CLINIC CARE MODEL IN
BELLE SQUARE DOWNTOWN
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 Steven Nicolai Nicolai Apartments Cindy Prindle Western Technical College Brandon Prinsen Johns, Flaherty & Collins, SC JoAnn Steffes Steffes HR Advantage Brenda Stuhr Trust Point, Inc. Jodi Widuch The Parenting Place Jeff Wieser Wieser Brothers General Contractor, Inc.
Executive Director’s Message: The American Dream: Workforce vs. the Triple Sport Athlete Working for a Chamber provides me insight into the workforce challenges you, our businesses face. With the exception of one business, workforce shortages is top of mind. Combine that with being a mom of a comingof-working-age son and it’s a unique collision. Wearing my Chamber-in-thecommunity hat, I attend sessions on the current difficulty of achieving “The American Dream” - i.e. the ability for a son/daughter to earn more than the parents. It’s complicated. With more workforce being educated, coupled with student debt, education is no longer the easiest way to earn more than the generation before. Wearing my Chamber hat, I know many of you desperately need workers. I see the “help wanted” signs. I hear the stress. I know your pains of missing “soft skills” - the ability to be accountable, communicate, etc. I share your surprise at how many 21-year-olds are applying for their first job because now, not enough high school students engaged in the workforce. There are not enough bodies to fill open positions. I get it. Then I go home and wear my Mom hat. When my first son hit age four, the societal pressures began to keep children in activities. Playing one sport now means year-round opportunities. It hit a new level when I took my son to freshman orientation. The coaches encouraged “triple sport athletes” and how, for example, “track will do more for the soccer player than the soccer player will do for track. The emphasis is on staying mentally and physically fit. That’s a great message until this year when my son turned 16 -- the coming of age for getting paid to work in the world. Both my husband and I worked through high school and college out of necessity to pay for our education. We are adamant that our children will also work. But because we as parents have achieved “the American Dream,” earning more than our high-school educated parents, our children have a different lifestyle. They will work because of our philosophical choice, not financial need.
We have found many of our friends in the same situation. Not all of them have the same philosophical belief and value on working being a requirement to teach strong work ethics. In fact, some of our friends had their child stop working because they wanted him to focus on his college-prep testing. The emphasis was on getting into the right school over working and all that that it teaches. With more Generation X families achieving the American Dream, I find myself in conversations that would cause my parents and Baby Booms to gasp. “I don’t know when my son has time to work after sports and studying.” “My daughter’s job is inconvenient. It gets in the way of our family vacations.” “My son has a lifetime to work, but this is his time to have fun and play competitive sports.” In the battle of working vs. triple sport athletes, numbers show there are fewer high school students in the workforce. It is a missing workforce. High schoolers aren’t taking the entry level jobs we all recall doing – learning how to budget with my Dairy Queen paycheck was vital. How do we redefine the American Dream? How do we encourage high school workers? Share your thoughts in how we win that battle to vicki@ lacrossechamber.com . With appreciation,
Vicki Markussen Executive Director
Cover Story: Belle Square Downtown...Page 4 A WHOLE NEW CLASS: COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP.............................................. 3 ADVOCACY GOLF OUTING............................................................................................ 5 (RE)BUILDING THE ECONOMY AROUND HWY. 53 ������������������������������������������������� 5 HOW TO MAXIMIZE YOUR MEMBERSHIP ���������������������������������������������������������������6
Table of Contents
TAKE LA CROSSE AREA ISSUES TO MADISON ������������������������������������������������������6 RIBBON CUTTINGS.......................................................................................................... 7 DC FLY IN RECAP.............................................................................................................8 CHAMBER RELAUNCHES RELOCATION GUIDE ��������������������������������.....................9 WISCONSIN’S (& LAX COUNTY’S) BEST ECONOMY IN 15 YEARS......................................................................................9 MAY 16 GROW EVENT.....................................................................................................9 MAY & JUNE BUSINESS AFTER HOURS EVENT RECAP........................................9 UPCOMING EVENTS...................................................................................................... 10 WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE CHAMBER ���������������������������������������������������������������� 11 UPCOMING SIGNATURE EVENTS.............................................................................. 12 CONNECTING MEMBERS TO MEMBERS ����������������������������������������������������������������� 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 JAMI REDENBAUGH, RECEPTIONIST 608-784-4880 jami@lacrossechamber.com
Magazine Layout by Jacob Klatte jmklattedesign@gmail.com
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A Whole New Class Twenty new graduates joined the esteemed ranks of alumni of the Chamber’s Community leadership program. They join 600 business leaders who have gone through the program since it began in the early 1980’s. The group learns about the opportunities and challenges facing our community in hopes they engage with greater La Crosse County in new, more robust ways. Equally valued is the connections they make with business leaders earmarked to attend from other companies. They learn how they think (to know yourself is to lead yourself) and how others think in order to approach challenges with new perspectives. The 2017-2018 class is forming now. Email
info@lacrossechamber.com for more information.
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Mayo Clinic Care is Now Downtown BELLE SQUARE CLINIC: A NEW OPTION TO MEET THE HEALTH CARE NEEDS OF EMPLOYERS With the opening of the new clinic in Belle Square, Mayo Clinic Health System – Franciscan Healthcare is applying an innovative care model that meets people where they work, live and visit.
Located on the northwest corner of the Belle Square development, the new clinic was conceived and designed to meet the needs of a growing and diverse downtown population. •
Employees need less time away from work to get care for an illness or injury
•
Employers can use employee health services such as flu shots, wellness services or counseling
•
Downtown residents now have a doctor within walking distance
•
Visitors to downtown hotels have ready access to acute care
The 6,500 square foot facility offers the easy access and efficiency of an express location, plus primary and acute care that’s normally received in a larger clinic setting. With extended hours that include Saturdays, clinic visits are easier to fit in before or after work.
CARE THAT FITS YOUR LIFE The Belle Square clinic provides a higher level of convenience. With the availability of walk-in and same-day appointments, a growing downtown workforce can receive care and return to work faster. The clinic’s six exam rooms, procedure room and behavioral health consultation room accommodate patients with a wide range of needs, including lab tests and radiology. Services include: •
Belle Square developer Don Weber welcomes the addition. “I am excited that Mayo Clinic Health System – Franciscan Healthcare will be providing an employer-focused clinic right in downtown.”
Treatment for injuries and illness
•
Primary care visits
•
Immunizations
THE MODEL: EXPRESS CARE, BUT BETTER
•
Employee Assistance Program services
•
Lab testing and screening
•
Onsite radiology/imaging
•
Counseling
•
Wellness programming and coaching
The renowned Mayo Clinic Model of Care puts the patient first, with a coordinated team providing the highest quality care. This newest clinic does that while addressing additional concerns such as faster access and affordability. Continuity of care is maintained, since the patient’s primary provider has immediate access to medical records. Joseph Behn, M.D., medical director for Belle Square, expects to see a mix of patients who live or work in the downtown area and whose needs may be relatively urgent. Dr. Behn is joined by other family medicine providers including physician assistants and nurse practitioners plus behavioral health counselors and wellness providers.
Mayo Clinic Health System regional vice president Tim Johnson, M.D. is pleased to see this new care model introduced in the heart of the city. “Downtown La Crosse is a very vibrant part of our community and we are excited to be part of its growth.”
THE EASY ACCESS AND EFFICIENCY OF AN EXPRESS CLINIC PLUS PRIMARY AND ACUTE CARE NORMALLY RECEIVED IN A LARGER CLINIC SETTING
EXTENDED HOURS- OPEN SIX DAYS A WEEK Monday -Thursday 7:30 am–6:30 pm
Friday 7:30 am–5:30 pm
Saturday 9 am–3 pm
232 3RD ST. N., LA CROSSE (NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE BELLE SQUARE COMPLEX) |
608-392-7400
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Advocacy Golf Outing & Foundation Silent Auction | Enjoy a day on the course with more
Held at the La Crosse Country Club, this signature event raises funds
than 200 of the area’s business and
for the Chamber to continue to offer, grow and develop its business
industry professionals. This event
advocacy services. Proceeds from the Silent Auction raffle go to the La
offers something for everyone,
Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, whose efforts support
regardless of golf prowess, and
educational services provided by the Chamber, including the annual
countless ways for your business to
Honor Student Banquet.
engage with the Chamber and its members. Consider the following opportunities: •
Golf in the Outing. Morning or afternoon foursomes available. Chamber member pricing is $135 for the morning and $150 for the afternoon, which includes golf, lunch, silent auction, networking and evening social. Register at www.lacrossechamber.com
•
Sponsor the Event. This is a fantastic way to stay involved and keep your business visible throughout the event.
•
Donate to the Silent Auction. Please email info@lacrossechamber. com if interested.
•
Donate Goody Bag Items. Help us fill our golfer goody bags with useful, memorable items and secure free advertising for your business in the process.
•
Volunteer your Time. There are several opportunities to volunteer your time and efforts in the weeks leading up to the Golf Outing as well as on the day of the event. If you’d like to help, please email
info@lacrossechamber.com and let us know.
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MONDAY AUG 28, 2017
HOW TO MaXimize YOUR MEMBERSHIP
STEVE BISSEN – BUSINESS OUTREACH DIRECTOR
It’s the middle of the year, a time when
team member, a new product offering or
Add credibility and show off your
many goals and resolutions fall to the
an award or industry certification, send it
membership to the La Crosse Area.
wayside. How are your business and
to newsletter@lacrossechamber.com so
We have some new Chamber member
personal goals progressing? If you’re like
we can share with the wider business
window clings that are perfect for your
me, some are going great, some are not.
community.
entrance door or window. Let us know how
Maybe one of your goals was to “get more
If you’re celebrating something more
involved” with the Chamber. Here’s how.
significant like a remodeling or expansion,
Share your exciting business news with us and your fellow members. We consistently hear that this is one of the most valuable aspects of Chamber investment. In every edition of our newsletter you will find a “Connecting Members to Members” section, where members share business developments
many you want and we’ll be happy to drop
consider hosting a ribbon cutting or Business After Hours event to show off your new facility. You never know what new
them off. Remember the Chamber is YOUR resource and we want to help you thrive, whatever that looks like for your business right now.
relationships might develop. If you don’t
Don’t forget, our next MaXimize Your
want the publicity, we would still love to
Membership session is coming up on
know what’s new and exciting with your
July 26 at the Chamber. This is a great
business. We can stop by for a visit or you
opportunity to introduce yourself to fellow
can share over the phone or via email.
members. connect and learn about other businesses at the Chamber.
for free. Whether it’s a new
Take La Crosse Area Issues to Madison |
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11
SAVE THE DATE FOR OKTOBERFEST IN THE CAPITOL Mark your calendar! Details coming soon!
WHAT’S OKTOBERFEST IN THE CAPITOL? The Chamber partners with Downtown Mainstreet, Explore La Crosse, La Crosse Area Development Corporation and 7 Rivers Alliance to take a bus full of people to Madison to talk with elected officials about issues important to our business community. Issues taken the last time (i.e. two years ago is the large group session) included transportation, La Crosse Center funding, workforce, historic tax credits, and more. Plan for a full day, but with transportation provided so you can network while riding on a coach bus!
JUST AROUND THE CORNER
AT MERCHANTS BANK Merchants is proud to welcome Gina Miller, Commercial Banker and Cash Management expert, to our growing team. Stop in or give her a call today. Gina Miller (608) 779-8274 GLMiller@merchantsbank.com
Visit us online at www.merchantsbank.com
Local community decisions. Regional strength. 21 Locations Serving Minnesota and Wisconsin Member FDIC
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Ribbon Cuttings Western Wisconsin’s Only Business-to-Business Magazine
LA CROSSE LOGGERS May 30- Expansion and renovation of the La Crosse Loggers Stadium
YOUR AD HERE ($275 for 1/4 page)
Various ad sizes and prices available, including the cover ad and spotlight article. Visit www.lacrossechamber.com to purchase!
MAYO CLINIC HEALTH CARE AT BELLE SQUARE June 9- Opening of the clinic at Belle Square
DIGICOPY June 15- Grand re-opening and expansion of the DigiCOPY location in the Shelby Mall, La Crosse Jackson Plaza La Crosse Schedule a ribbon cutting or groundbreaking ceremony through the Chamber by contacting info@ lacrossechamber.com at least two weeks in advance.
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608.784.2110
DC Fly In Recap IN LATE APRIL, OUR LARGEST DELEGATION YET FLEW TO WASHINGTON, D.C. TO BE YOUR VOICE ON PENDING ISSUES IMPACTING YOUR BUSINESS WHY THIS TRIP IS IMPORTANT: •
The Chamber takes your voice to Washington D.C. and demonstrates the local impact of government’s votes and actions on our community and our businesses
•
We have been engaging in this trip for so many years that we have a solid reputation
GRASSLAND’S NOTICE TO MANY DAIRY FARMERS AROUND THE STATE WAS A TOP ISSUE: •
Many Wisconsin farmers lost their processors when Canada notified the U.S. that it will not take the milk
•
We heard this from Lee Nerison at our Forum a few weeks prior
•
The offices were working hard in D.C. to find new dairy processors
•
Update after we left: all farmers found new processors
IT WAS A DYNAMIC WEEK AS WE LEARNED OF THE “PUZZLE PIECES” THAT NEEDED TO BE PUT TOGETHER TO MAKE LARGE OVERHAULS POSSIBLE. •
When we arrived on Tuesday, offices were working to pass a budget that would keep government running (versus a shutdown) after Friday
•
Tax Reform was introduced by President Trump. This one page plan was greeted with a standard answer, “I can’t comment until I see the details.” Many offices commented that they find themselves learning of initiatives as we, the public, find out.
•
TAX REFORM & REGULATION •
Marketplace Fairness (forcing online sellers with $50k+ in sales to collect sales tax, providing a fairer advantage to our brick & mortar stores) •
Case studies taken: Wettsteins & First Supply
•
A bill passed in the Senate last year. We need House representatives to sign on
•
Companies impacted: all
•
LIFO – Last-in, First Out Accounting
•
•
Companies impacted: those with inventory
•
Case Study taken: First Supply
•
We asked that this form of accounting be preserved. It is not a tax break as some foresee it.
Tax Reform •
Companies Impacted: all who file a tax return
•
Our argument: tax codes are overly complicated and take too much time to file. Simplification hasn’t happened in more than 30 years.
•
Success: President Trump is proposing keeping the mortgage interest deduction.
WORKFORCE •
Congressman Ron Kind’s Chief of Staff Mike Goodman joined us, providing dynamics on the Hill.
Gainful Employment: i.e. holding schools accountable for wage earnings to debt ratio. •
Case Study Taken: The Salon Professional Academy
•
Our argument: The inability to accurately measure the earning incomes of some professions, especially ones that are heavily cash-based, is going to significantly impact some professions requiring some schools to close
Briefings the first morning included: •
•
Support for NESP: Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program - navigational and ecological improvements
We added a new component- dinner the night before our Capitol Hill visits: •
•
Our message: provide sustainable funding.
Timing is important. We need the changes to healthcare to be cleared in order to secure funding for infrastructure and tax reforms.
THIS YEAR’S D.C. FLY-IN WAS A RECORD EVENT FOR US WITH 13 ATTENDEES! •
OUR ISSUE: INFRASTRUCTURE Companies impacted: Mathy Construction and Brennan Marine
The National Governor’s Association commenting that when the federal government is viewed as weak, people turn to the state to lead
Met with all offices in or near our region: •
Six Senate Offices •
•
Franken, Baldwin, Johnson, Grassley & Ernst (IA), Klobuchar (MN)
•
People with Disabilities •
Case Study Taken: Riverfront, Inc.
•
Our concern is that we need all the people who can work in jobs. Any caps and funding cuts would be detrimental and decrease the inroads that have been made.
Seven House Offices •
Kind, Grothman, Gallagher, Ryan, Sean Duff
•
Blum & Walt (IA & MN)
OUR ISSUE: HEALTH CARE •
Companies impacted: Mayo Clinic Health System & Gundersen Health System
•
Allow telehealth: it provides the ability to monitor patients remotely, reducing hospitalizations. This issue resonated with congressmen and women with rural constituents
•
Asked them to adjust Stark Law & Anti-kickback: doesn’t allow for testing (ex. Skin cancer at farm shows) that could help with prevention
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Chamber Relaunches Relocation Guide
The La Crosse Area Chamber’s relocation packet is getting an upgrade to a magazine format and expanding in reach in 2017. Work is under way with our summer interns identifying best practices from other Chambers. Our goal is to launch a 64-page magazine-style publication that makes our community proud by spotlighting municipality profiles, top employer information, community assets and much more. Our goal is to launch in early October. Our membership directory will be included in the back of the publication. Distribution will be online, through our member realtors, and our employers human resources department. HOW TO PARTICIPATE Please make sure your information is up-todate for your listing in the directory. If you’d like to advertise and/or receive copies of the completed book, please contact us at info@lacrossechamber.com. We are currently developing the pricing structure.
Wisconsin’s May 16 (and La Crosse GROW Event County’s)
Best Economy
La Crosse Area Chamber members were treated to a Special Forum event at the headquarters of Altra Federal Credit Union on May 23. Chief Economist, John Koskinen (pictured), with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue provided economic projections and data interpretation for La Crosse County and the wider region, sharing a hopeful image of the La Crosse area in comparison to some of our neighboring states.
Chamber members learned from fellow members Jon Fields (Effective Business Practices) and Terry Siebert (Dale Carnegie Training) on how to achieve a sense of renewal and engagement in the workplace. Jon kicked off the day with tips and strategies for balancing work and life, while Terry shared practical applications of common sense for more effective workplace habits.
Employment Information taken from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics July 2017, https://www.bls.gov/eag/eag.wi_lacrosse_msa.htm
May & June Business After Hours MAY 11 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS AT SHENANIGANS / CELEBRATIONS ON THE RIVER Chamber members enjoyed the unveiling of a newly remodeled three seasons porch at Celebrations on the River during a night of networking with games at Shenanigans.
JUNE 8 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS AT MAYO CLINIC HEALTH SYSTEM FRANCISCAN HEALTHCARE AT BELLE SQUARE Complete with tours of the new facility and food and drink by Premier Catering, Chamber members celebrated the opening of the Mayo Clinic Health System - Franciscan Healthcare clinic at Belle Square.
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Upcoming Events SERVANT LEADERSHIP The Chamber continues their successful partnership with Viterbo University to offer our Servant Leadership program again this fall. Led by Tom Thibodeau this four part series will prove to have significant personal and professional impact. Sessions begin Thursday, September 21 at the Chamber. Register online at www.lacrossechamber.com THE FORUM JULY 10 | 7:30 AM @ THE CHAMBER This session covers local budgets, featuring City of La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat and La Crosse County (invited).
The Forum
THE FORUM AUGUST 14 | 7:30 AM @ THE CHAMBER ”Enlightening” an energy panel, featuring Mark Stoering (Xcel Energy), Barb Nick (Dairyland Power Cooperative) and Mike Huebsch (Public Service Commission). THE FORUM SPECIAL EVENT SEPTEMBER 18 | 11:15 AM @ THE CHAMBER Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance’s Executive Director Todd A. Berry will compare Wisconsin’s revenue sources to those of other states.
THE FORUM SPECIAL EVENT JULY 14 | 11:00 AM @ THE CHAMBER TRANSPORTATION: KEEPING WI MOVING With featured speaker David Ross, Secretary with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. FREE to attend. Register online at www.lacrossechamber.com
PLANNING YOUR
NEXT MOVE?
n
Design-Build
n
General Contractor
n
Construction Manager
JULY 13 HOSTED BY DBS GROUP Join DBS Group for Business After Hours. Enjoy complimentary wine, beer and appetizers while viewing DBS Group’s forward-looking yet practical design and construction work. Experts in design-build project delivery, DBS Group manages projects from conception to completion and collaborates with a wide range of designers to provide construction-only services too.
AUGUST 10 HOSTED BY LA CROSSE REGIONAL AIRPORT AND COLGAN AIR SERVICES La Crosse Regional Airport and Colgan Air Services invite you to join Business After Hours inside an airplane hangar. Enjoy complimentary beverages, appetizers, and entertainment. La Crosse Regional Airport is the 7-Rivers Region’s largest commercial airport and plays a critical role in fostering business growth and economic development in the region.
REGISTER TODAY!
MONDAY AUGUST 28 @ THE LA CROSSE COUNTRY CLUB LOOKING TO ENGAGE? SEND US AN EMAIL info@lacrossechamber.com
www.dbsg.com
608.881.6007 2700 National Drive, Suite 101 | Onalaska, WI 54650
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Chamber Committee Corner ADVOCACY COMMITTEE
BY NATHAN FRANKLIN, CO-CHAIR
The visit to Washington, D.C. for the D.C. Fly In was a success! Our
BUSINESS OUTREACH COMMITTEE
BY WENDY FRANK, CHAIR
issues were well received and the Congressional Offices were gracious.
The Business Outreach Committee welcomes new members Sheila
First time participants, like Brennan Marine, were pleased and
Connors (New Horizons), Nick Dutton (Spectrum Insurance Group),
motivated to stay engaged. See page 8 for more details.
Colin Fleming (State Bank), Ben Kirchner (Charterpoint), Deb Lee
The Forum had our regular state legislative updates from Billings and
(Country Financial) and Nicki Veenendall (MobileLife Inc.). These new
Doyle and with guests representatives from the offices of Senator
committee members are joining veteran members Brad Dinsmoor
Baldwin and Representative Kind. Altra Federal Credit Union hosted
(Dinsmoor Strategies), Joe Moua (Bremer Bank), Lynn Zielke (Travel
a Special Forum event, featuring John Koskinen, Economist with
Leaders), Tim Oliver (US Bank), Chair Wendy Franke (N2 Publishing)
the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. Koskinen shared insightful
and Angela Seeger (Heartland Payment Systems), recently named
trends in our local, state and regional economy as well as promising
Vice Chair of the committee. The group continues its work to identify
demographic and economic data for the La Crosse area and beyond.
and prospect for future Chamber members, orient new members and
The committee continues to collaborate with other business group
connect with current members.
partners on next steps opposing the Premier Resort Area Tax (PRAT). Planning for the Chamber Golf Outing to support Advocacy efforts has
MARKETING COMMITTEE
BY BRAD DINSMOOR, CHAIR
begun. This year’s Oktoberfest in the Capitol will be October 11 (see
In recent weeks, a committee has begun to take shape. Additional
page 12 for more details).
prospects are being contacted but we are able to meet and move
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
forward. In addition to a charter, a document has been created with
BY JOE POEHLING, CHAIR
broad based goals which include a written and detailed marketing
The following actions were taken at the recent meetings. Barbara
plan, which will be reviewed and shared at the next meeting. Goals
Nick (Dairyland Power Cooperative) was elected to the committee
of the committee for the foreseeable future include a detailed
and began serving immediately. Randy Berg (Trane) reviewed the
marketing plan and planning strategic communications for the 150th
Chamber’s financial statements. The Chamber’s Golf Outing has
anniversary of the Chamber in 2018.
been named the Chamber Advocacy Golf Outing and Foundation Silent Auction with proceeds going to support the Chamber’s
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS COMMITTEE
BY MARK HUGHES, CHAIR
business advocacy work (see page 12 for details). Proceeds from the
This year’s statewide YP Week, working to bring together young
golf outing’s silent auction and raffle will support the Chamber of
professionals and their employers on issues that matter, was well-
Commerce Foundation. The first of the committee charters have
attended in the La Crosse area. YPCR hosted two events which
been received and will be reviewed next month by the full Executive
brought in several new faces and yielded positive feedback from
committee. In addition to a Synergy group update, a facilities
attendees. The Young Professionals event committee has been
management proposal was received and referred to the facilities
focused on finalizing and promoting events several weeks/months in
committee to act upon.
advance to raise awareness and get these events onto the calendars. In June, the Young Professionals hosted a successful luncheon at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse with Head Football Coach, Mike Schmidt, followed by a quarterly social event at the newly renovated La Crosse Loggers Stadium.
(Re)Building the Economy Around Hwy. 53 With the help of Chamber investors, Chamber Executive Director Vicki Markussen is one of several individuals representing the voice of businesses, residents, developers and others as a master plan for Highway-53’s corridor (and several blocks surrounding it) along La Crosse’s North Side are envisioned for growth. The group, with public input to consulting planners hired by the city, have identified several nodes for improvement. The nodes are economic hubs that, when planned correctly, can spark growth that positively impacts the neighborhoods surrounding the corridor from I-90 to downtown. To read more on this project and others that Chamber Executive Director Vicki Markussen is working on in the community
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go to Vicki’s blog at www.lacrossechamber.com/blog.
Upcoming SIGNATURE Events 34 ANNUAL GOLF OUTING | MONDAY, AUGUST 28, 2017
150TH ANNUAL CELEBRATION | MONDAY, MARCH 5, 2018
Some of the area’s top business
Celebrate 150 years of
leaders make a point of attending the Chamber Golf Outing. Be among them. Connect. Grow. Advocate.
La Crosse history and economic progress through the eyes of its dynamic business community.
A.M. Foursome: $135 P.M. Foursome: $150 Sponsorships available.
HONOR STUDENT BANQUET | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2018 Show greater La Crosse that your business cares about the academic
OKTOBERFEST IN THE CAPITOL | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2017 Join us as we head to the
success, hard work and future of the area’s youth at this well-loved event, celebrating the top five-percent of
Wisconsin State Capitol Building
graduating high school seniors from local high schools and their
for high-quality legislative visits
parents to a banquet in their honor.
that reintroduce our state’s elected officials to the value of the La Crosse Area business community and the significance of our area for state and regional economic success.
BUSINESS EXPO | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017 Generate business leads, build relationships, and prospect for partners and customers at the Business Expo. Purchase a booth, attend the Small Business Breakfast and our Luncheon and hear how the two featured businesses have developed and grown their companies.
ENGAGE WITH THE CHAMBER We’re looking to elevate our programs, events and services and we want your help! Several opportunities exist, including Young Professionals Events, Business Expo and more. Apply today at www.lacrossechamber.com/connect/get-involved
Corporate Christmas Parties will be here before you know it! Reserve your venue today at Maple Grove Venues, LLC! Great holiday rates, modern and updated venue with seating up to 400 guests, choose your own licensed caterer, full bar with licensed bartenders, plenty of parking! For more information, contact us at info@maplegrovevenues.com or 608-790-1661 today!
www.maplegrovevenues.com
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Big on Fresh. Low on Price. Espresso Drinks Hot Food Anytime Top Tier Fuel Fresh Meat Clean Restrooms No FEE ATM* *No service fees are charged by our stores. Individual card holder fee may still apply.
kwiktrip.com UPCOMING
WE’RE TURNING 150 IN 2018! DID YOU KNOW WE’RE THE 182ND CHAMBER IN THE NATION! LEARN ABOUT THE CHAMBER’S OTHER MILESTONES AT
www.lacrossechamber.com/ brief-timeline-chamber/
MaXimize YOUR MEMBERSHIP WEDNESDAY, JULY 26 12:00PM - 1:00PM Meet fellow members as you learn about your Chamber membership. Feel free to bring business cards, brochures and samples to share. WHO SHOULD ATTEND? • • •
New Chamber Members Employees in new roles Members wanting to increase engagement
There is no charge for this event. Please register online at
www.lacrossechamber.com
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Connecting Members to Members BREMER BANK- ONALASKA welcomes
Char Glocke, LA CROSSE AREA
Martha Scheckel, Ph.D., has been appointed
Josh Smith, Senior Mortgage Loan Officer.
REALTORS® ASSOCIATION, recently
VITERBO UNIVERSITY’S new dean of the
Josh brings 15 years of residential lending
earned her RCE designation. The
College of Nursing, Health, and Human
experience, serving all clients from first time
“REALTORS® Certified Executive” is the
Behavior. She has extensive experience in
buyers to construction, VA and FHA, among
only professional designation designed
college nursing education. She will begin
other loan programs. Contact Josh at 608-
specifically for REALTOR® Association
her duties on July 1.
791-5636 or jasmith@bremer.com
Executives, awarded to those who
CHARTERPOINT WEALTH STRATEGIES
have completed a rigorous certification
of La Crosse is pleased to announce Ryan
process demonstrating experience and
Baumbach and Sam Greene have joined
knowledge of topics essential for REALTOR®
as Financial Services Representatives.
Association management.
Sara Cook, Ph.D., has been named VITERBO UNIVERSITY’S new dean of the College of Education, Science, and Mathematics beginning July 13. Cook most recently served as Viterbo’s assistant dean and assistant vice
Ryan recently passed his series 7 exam and
LA CROSSE SIGN GROUP is celebrating 100
Life/Health licensed. Sam carries his CFP
years in business! Our goal is to make you
designation and 7 & 66 licenses.
as proud of your sign as we were to make
CRN®, a brand of The Channel Company,
it. Thank you for the support and we look
has named EO JOHNSON BUSINESS
forward to future partnerships!
TECHNOLOGIES’ LOCKNET® MANAGED
Logan Ellman, has joined MUTUAL OF
electromechanical technology program and
president for academic affairs. WESTERN TECHNICAL COLLEGE and Ashley Furniture Industries announced a partnership to provide Yaskawa robots and simulated trainers for the college’s
IT SERVICES to its 2017 Solution Provider
OMAHA as a sales representative in
regional workforce training. The equipment
500 list. This is CRN’s ranking of the largest
La Crosse. In his new position, Ellman will
will be housed at Western’s La Crosse and
IT technology solution providers in North
offer the Company’s wide range of products
Independence campuses.
America by revenue.
and services to the residents of the tri-
FOWLER & HAMMER, INC. welcomes Austin
state area. He is associated with the Upper
Hoffman to its construction staff as a Project
Midwest Division Office in La Crosse.
Engineer. Austin is a recent graduate from
THE PARENTING PLACE is excited to
the University of Wisconsin-Stout with a
announce the addition of Nell Saunders-
degree in Construction Management. www.
Scott, Fund Development Director, to our
fowlerhammer.com
team! Nell has been a parent participant in
2017 marks the 25th Anniversary of
The Parenting Place’s programs for many
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY LA CROSSE
years and is familiar with the La Crosse
AREA. We served our mission and expanded
community after five years managing
the services we provide to our communities
the Cameron Park Farmers Market. Nell
through the dedication and support of our
can be reached at nellsaunders-scott@
staff, volunteers, donors, board members,
theparentingplace.net.
funders, and homeowners. HAWKINS ASH CPAS is pleased to welcome Hilary Korpal as an Associate in the Firm’s housing division and Laurie Lambert as an Associate in the Firm’s accounting services department.
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.
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Diamond Sponsors
Presorted Standard U.S. Postage 601 7th Street N. • La Crosse, WI 54601 Phone: 608-784-4880 • Fax: 608-784-4919 info@lacrossechamber.com www.lacrossechamber.com
PAID
La Crosse, WI Permit No. 219
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors Welcome New Members! DRIFTLESS DENTAL CARE
STRATTON CLEANING SERVICES
3143 State Road
2016 Charles St
La Crosse, WI 54601
La Crosse, WI 54603
608.787.1700
608.386.6514
driftlessdentalcare.com
Dustin Williams
Michael D’Hondt
Cleaning/Restoration
Health Care
TRUELINE INC.
ENGLISH LUTHERAN CHURCH
124 Division Street
1509 King St
La Crosse, WI 54601
La Crosse, WI 54601
608.782.6445
608.784.9335
trueline-inc.com
englishlutheran.org
Terry Trueblood
Mark Solyst
Manufacturers
Churches/Clergy
UBER LA CROSSE
FIRST CHOICE MERCHANT SERVICES LLC
601 N Whitney Way C
701 Washington Ave N Suite 111
Madison, WI 53705
Minneapolis, MN 55401
uber.com/cities/la-crosse/
608.386.0273
Transportation
firstchoicepartner.com Dan Bauer Merchant Services SHADOW RUN MOTEL 710 2nd Ave N Onalaska, WI 54650 608.783.0020 Scott Olson Hotels/Motels/Inns