Weigh in on New County Tax April 4 by La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce

MARCH - APRIL 2017

Weigh in on New County Tax April 4

PREMIER RESORT AREA TAX (PRAT) IS A 0.5% TAX COLLECTED BY BUSINESSES THAT TOURISTS COULD VISIT

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 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.

Executive Director’s Message: The Importance of Your Voice Every day votes, discussions and meetings are happening that impact your business -- positively and negatively. Attending them all would be impossible. Listening to your needs and your concerns, consolidating them with others, and speaking for the many is what you pay the La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce to do. We gather the highlights. We analyze how we think it may impact you. We gather your feedback. We let you know when we need your voice. Your membership allows you to do what you do best -- run your business. Meanwhile we do what we do best -advocating on your behalf. Now is one of those times we need your input. It’s a time to look at the highlights we’ve prepared and adjust your business. Here’s the top two we need you to pay attention to: 1.

Premier Resort Area Tax (PRAT)

Highway 53 / Exit 3 South to Kentucky Fried Chicken Construction

Here’s the two to have on your radar screen: 1.

DC Fly In April 26-27

Highway 53 Visioning

PREMIER RESORT AREA TAX (PRAT)

Steve Loehr Kwik Trip

We need you to review the article in this newsletter as well as check out our website (see the article), then let us know how PRAT impacts your business. This is a 0.5% tax collected by businesses that tourists could visit (ex. florists, wellness centers, gift shops, hotels, etc.).

Robin Moses, ex-officio Downtown Mainstreet, Inc.

HIGHWAY 53 / GEORGE STREET (EXIT 3) LANE CLOSURES

Barbara Nick Dairyland Power Cooperative

The reconstruction of the intersection of Highway 53 and George Street begins with this upcoming road construction season. Each of these roads at this key intersection will be reduced to a single lane in both directions. Good Steward’s and McDonalds are being removed. McDonald’s current location will become the new entrance for Bridgeview Plaza with a lighted intersection at the Kwik Trip intersection. A median will be put in along George Street. Access to Walgreens and Kwik Trip will be along a side-road. A group is forming for the businesses wanting to work on a “still open” campaign. Contact me to participate. The Chamber created a website with additional information on how your business can prepare at www. lacrossechamber.com/highway-53.

Sue Kolve-Feehan The Salon Professional Academy

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.

DC FLY-IN Our annual DC Fly-In takes your voice to Washington D.C. Two handfuls of individuals from diverse businesses visit more than 11 offices at our nation’s capitol to talk about the impacts of proposals, current laws and needed bills that influence businesses in our region. See the article in this newsletter for details. HIGHWAY 53 VISIONING SESSIONS Highway 53 from Exit 3 to downtown is a gateway entrance to the city, a critical freight artery, access to homes, and challenged by properties being located in the 100-year flood plain. The City of La Crosse hired a consulting group to identify nodes along the route that, if developed properly, could spark new development that has a ripple effect on necessary changes along the corridor. I have the honor of serving on the Visioning Team. Several upcoming sessions are being planned to gather your input and keep you updated on the project. For more information visit: http://www.cityoflacrosse.org/ hwy53corridormasterplan WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK As a Chamber member, you have an organization dedicated to protecting and advancing the needs of your business. As the fortunes of businesses around your rise, so does your business. Having a team to lobby and advocate on your behalf is powerful. Plus, a Chamber membership is a lot less expensive than trying to hire even one advocate yourself. We’ve got your back. With appreciation,

Vicki Markussen Executive Director

Cover Story:

Contact THE

Weigh in on New County Tax April 4.....................................Page 3

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

Table of Contents

MAGGIE CHRISTIAN, MARKETING & EVENTS DIRECTOR 608-784-4880 ext. 4 maggie@lacrossechamber.com

ANNUAL CELEBRATION HONOREES......................................4 - 5 HOW TO MAXIMIZE YOUR MEMBERSHIP �� 6 YP HOUSING TASKFORCE �� 6

JAMI REDENBAUGH, RECEPTIONIST 608-784-4880 jami@lacrossechamber.com

RIBBON CUTTINGS & ROCK STARS �� 7 WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE CHAMBER �� 8

Magazine Layout by Jacob Klatte jmklatte@live.com

NEW BOARD MEMBERS.................................................................. 9 CONNECTING MEMBERS TO MEMBERS �� 10

Wednesday, April 12 5:30PM UW-La Crosse NEW Student Center (corner of East Ave. and Farwell St.)

Various sponsorship opportunities are available for local businesses, with investments ranging from $180 to $810. FOUNDA T IO N

Jackson Plaza La Crosse

608.784.2110 2

Weigh in on New County Tax April 4

Pros-Cons

PREMIER RESORT AREA TAX (PRAT) WOULD ADD 0.5% AT BUSINESSES TOURISTS COULD ENTER With more than $87 million in unmet road needs and the need to borrow money to make road improvement, the La Crosse County Board is seeking to utilize the Premier Resort Area Tax (PRAT) to relieve taxpayers.

WE ALL WILL PAY FOR INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS. THESE CAN BE PAID THROUGH PROPERTY TAXES, THE PRAT OR OTHER TAXES (GAS, SALES, WHEEL, TOLLS). Pros • This creates a mechanism to collect dollars from tourists/those outside our area versus 100% of infrastructure needs currently being placed on county taxpayers. • This is one of the few options available to the county to raise funds. Municipalities have additional options. • The funds are restricted to infrastructure. Cons • There is concern some larger conventions that look at total cost will be deterred. • Brick and mortar retail that are already at a 5.5% disadvantage (sale tax) to online retailers (who do not pay sales tax). This widens the gap. • The same competitive disadvantage is raised by businesses that compete with Minnesota companies (ex. travel to Rochester to buy). • If a person makes a purchase using a credit card, the business will see an increase in their fees because of the added tax.

PRAT is a tool created in 1998 for the Dells area where more than 40% of their property tax values are from tourism-related businesses. PRAT requires approximately 40 business types to collect the tax on all purchases at their store. The PRAT dollars can be used on roads and bridges but also parking lots, recreational facilities, emergency vehicles, expo centers, boat ramps, beaches, and transportation facilities. La Crosse is the first county to pursue the tax. There are six cities and villages in Wisconsin with the PRAT: Rhinelander, Stockholm, Eagle River, Bayfield, Wisconsin Dells and Lake Delton. When a county enacts the PRAT, no municipalities within the county can then create the PRAT. Just prior to this newsletter going to print, the County was considering giving 20-25 percent of the funds raised to municipalities. There is no exemption for La Crosse County residents purchasing at these stores from paying the tax. IMPACT The La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce estimates there are approximately 800 businesses in the County that would collect the tax -- of the County’s 5,246 companies in the county. The Department of Revenue estimates the tax would generate about $5.6 million a year. The Chamber’s website has a tool for businesses to look up what industries must collect the tax and how to check if you are classified as one of these businesses. The list includes florists, health care centers, bookstores, gift shops, and more. Go to www. lacrossechamber.com for more information.

Who? OVERVIEW OF COMPANIES AFFECTED • • • • • •

NEXT STEPS The County does not currently meet the statutory requirement of having 40% of its property tax values derived from tourism related businesses. To seek an exemption from the legislature they must ask the taxpayers if they support the tax. This non-binding referendum question will be on the April 4th ballot. If it passes, the County can ask the legislature for an exemption. If granted, the County Board must approve by 2/3 vote creating a binding referendum that taxpayers would then vote on. CHAMBER’S POSITION Our Chamber’s first priority is educating businesses. Once they understand the pros and cons, we will survey businesses on their sentiments and consider taking a position.

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Department stores Variety stores General merchandise stores Candy, nut, and confectionery stores; dairy product stores Retail bakeries and food stores Gasoline service stations (auto parts & service). Note: this does not create a tax on gas. Clothing stores and shoe stores Eating and drinking places Drug stores Liquor stores Sporting good stores Bicycle shops Bookstores Stationery stores Jewelry stores Hobby, toy & game shops Camera and photographic supply stores Gift or souvenir stores Sewing, needlework and

• • • • • • • •

• • • • • • •

piece good stores Florists Tobacco stores News dealers or newsstands Retail stores Hotels and motels Sporting and recreational camps Recreational vehicle parks and campsites Theatrical producers, bands, orchestras, actors and other entertainers Racing, including track operations Physical fitness facilities Public golf courses Coin-operated amusement device Amusement parks Membership sports and recreation clubs Amusement and recreation services, not elsewhere classified

The above company listings corresponds with Standard Industry Codes (SIC). To see what SIC code your company falls under and if

it falls in the SIC codes, go to www.lacrossechamber.com under the area labeled as SIC.

In 1996, Deb bought the then 20-year old Wedding Tree building, two years later moving it to its current location at 418 Main Street. The 1894 structure was built as a department store. The upper two floors housed the YWCA.

CHAIR’S COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD

John Medinger Since 1947, the Chairman of the La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award has gone to individuals whose generosity and vision have spurred our community to new levels of progress and innovation. It is the most prestigious award we bestow. This year’s recipient, John Medinger has given his time, talent and heart to La Crosse since at least his high school years as he watched his father Donald Medinger begin his City Council term and continue with it for 32 more years. At the age of 27, John won his first election to the Assembly where he served eight terms. He worked for Senator Russ Feingold before winning the La Crosse Mayor seat, serving two terms. As Mayor, he repaired strained relationships with Onalaska and helped create United Coulee Region -- which morphed into what is now the 7 Rivers Alliance to work collaboratively. He followed that with work as a professor in UW-La Crosse’s Political Sciences Department and serving as Senator Herb Kohl’s office manager and outreach. This position continued after Kohl retired and Tammy Baldwin won. For decades, John has been the voice for the voiceless in La Crosse. His work on diversity, poverty, mental health and welfare for veterans are just examples of his generosity and drive to see local residents live their best lives. John married Dee in 1982 while she was employed in the State Capitol (Dee was a recent recipient of our Volunteer of the Year Award for her years spent coordinating Oktoberfest in the Capitol). They have two step-sons, Chris and Justin, and two adopted children, Emily and Jonathan. SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Deb Lash THE WEDDING TREE & COURT ABOVE MAIN The Chamber’s Small Business award celebrates the success of 88% of our members who have 50 or fewer full-time employees. We want to honor their vital contribution to our area’s economic growth. These are companies that are growing, focused on their employees, providing great customer service, and are involved in the larger community. This year’s recipient is Deb Lash, owner of The Wedding Tree & Court Above Main.

Her years of successful business growth at The Wedding Tree fueled her purchase of the La Crosse Bridal Expo in 2014. After witnessing many weddings postponed due to lack of locations, Deb knew the time was right to develop her third floor into what is now The Court Above Main. She invested approximately $1 million in the floors, which no longer had electricity, plumbing, heating or air conditioning, let alone an elevator. It is now a beautiful 190 seat event center with tall ceilings and 9’ high windows. Lash, a Viroqua High School and Western Technical College Marketing Program graduate, is currently the president of Downtown Mainstreet Inc. REGIONAL PROGRESS AWARD

Organic Valley FOR CASHTON EXPANSION & DEAN FOODS PARTNERSHIP It all started in 1988. We were a handful of Midwest family farmers and we were fed up with the state of American agriculture. Family farms were going extinct. That’s the story Organic Valley shares. Organic Valley represents the best of rural businesses. Their decision to maintain their headquarters in La Farge, a town of 400, is because being located in rural America is part of their heritage and their culture. Their decision to expand into Cashton is a continuation of that culture. The Cashton Office Building, or COB, as they call it is a 106,000 sq. ft., three story, state of the art facility offering a cafe, workout center and store that are all available to the community. It houses 275 employees with room for 400, which they estimate will last them approximately five years. It is located on 120 acres with its 122,000 sq. ft. distribution center, which will see additional product lines created in the next few years. The COB is a great example of a building that continues Organic Valley’s values of being kind to the land. The Building is LEED Gold Credited. Their partnership with Gundersen Health System resulted in the construction of two wind turbines that power the Cashton Campus along with geothermal solar panel systems. It is the economic impact of Organic Valley’s decision to locate in Cashton that earned them the Regional Progress Award. In contrast to the 400 person town of La Farge, where they are headquartered, Cashton has a population of 1,092. With more than 850 employees and growing, Organic Valley is a leader in providing quality, family-supporting jobs in the core of America’s dairyland. The Regional Progress Award is given in recognition of your efforts to improve the economy and quality of life throughout the La Crosse Area, through cooperative and collaborative efforts, that enhance unity, trust, respect and mutually beneficial progress for all the citizens of the 7 Rivers Region.

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Mark Hughes YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

LEADERSHIP AWARD

Brad Dinsmoor

DINSMOOR STRATEGIES

“I don’t care about titles, just tell me what you need,” is the approach Brad Dinsmoor takes when asked to help. The Leadership Award is presented to an individual for their commitment, enthusiasm, and willingness to take a leadership role in advancing the mission of the La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce by serving our membership and promoting our regional economy. When Brad Dinsmoor saw the Chamber needed a very part-time graphic artist, he approached us with a solution. When asked to join the newly formed Marketing Committee, he didn’t hesitate to say, “yes”. After chairing our Membership Committee for at least a decade, he didn’t bat an eye when we took it in a new direction and renamed it the Business Outreach Committee. This group helps the Chamber recruit and retain our members by reaching out to those that have joined, helping acquire feedback and following up on unpaid dues. When Chamber created Advisory positions on the Board of Directors to enhance communication with strategic committees, Brad stepped into that role. He continues to be an advocate for progress and a vocal, contemplative member in all spheres of his engagement with the Chamber.

Last year, our Young Professionals of the Coulee Region group expanded rapidly, from 60 members to 120 and finally to 185 by year-end. To help us move our growing group forward the Chamber created a Young Professionals Advisory Board. This is an opportunity for our YPs to gain significant volunteer and leadership experience. We knew it would be a formative year -especially when the vision was for 8-10 people to serve and more than 20 applied. We took 17 because we knew we’d need help. Mark Hughes agreed to step into the role of Chair of the Young Professionals of the Coulee Region, a position which also holds an advisory seat on the Chamber’s Board of Directors. He led the group through their first fundraiser -- selling parking spots in the Chamber lot for the Oktoberfest Maple Leaf parade. Shortly after, the YP group agreed to join YP Week -- a one-week, state-wide effort to recognize the impact of Young Professionals. Let’s just say the participation requirements are a bit intense. Mark gladly drove across the state to meet with other YP Week participants including an overnight trip in Milwaukee at his own expense. After all of those demands on his time and energy in 2016, Mark agreed to Chair the YPCR group and continue his role as YP Week liaison role for an additional year. He continues to attend regular conference calls and state-wide meetings to better lead efforts for this year’s YP Week. Mark Hughes is our Volunteer of the Year for his commitment to going above and beyond his roles to offer support and direction to the Young Professionals group.

Due to his willingness to help lead the Chamber as it explores new areas of marketing, Brad Dinsmoor is this year’s Leadership Award recipient.

HOW TO MaXimize YOUR MEMBERSHIP Your La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce membership offers you the best opportunity for targeted business-tobusiness marketing in the region. Utilize our broad marketing options to reinforce your brand, launch a new product or campaign and educate the business community. With price points beginning

at $100, you’re sure to find an option to fit your organization’s financial needs.

STEVE BISSEN – BUSINESS OUTREACH DIRECTOR

CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

E-NEWSLETTER

This newsletter has over 1,600 unique subscribers and plenty more who view it secondhand. A full color, one eighth page ad is only $150 - that’s approximately nine cents per impression! Connection newsletter ads range in size from oneeighth of a page to one full page and

Every week over 1,600 subscribers receive our e-newsletter in their email inbox with timely business information and event announcements. For only $100, you can purchase a full color ad that will run in this e-Newsletter for four consecutive weeks. What an easy, cost-effective way to

offer the flexibility of graphic displays or advertorial columns.

promote an upcoming event or introduce a new product. Space is limited, so reserve

Dillon Bean

Steve Nicolai

Young Professionals, Developers Assess YP Rental Housing Needs The visioning session held by La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals of the Coulee Region as well as non-members, followed by a drill-down survey, identified the lack of quality, affordable rental housing as a concern needing improvement. To address this concern, approximately 30 members of the Young Professionals of the Coulee Region group met with approximately the same number of realtors with a goal of identifying the gap -- i.e. what is currently available and what the current housing stock allows. Chamber Board members Steve Nicolai (Nicolai Apartments) and YP Advisory Board member Dillon Bean (Gerrard Hoeschler) are co-chairing the YP Housing Task Force. The group met just prior to the Young Professional’s January meeting. “One surprising realization during the process was that the bulk of the YPs expressing concerns with our housing did not grow up in the Coulee Region,” said Vicki Markussen, executive director of the Chamber. “This shows an opportunity to equip our Chamber members to assist their employees to find rental housing.”

com (50%) Zillow (10%), Apartment Connection magazine (10%), with a few asking co-workers, seeing “for rent” signs. 1.

The task force began by trying to define “quality” and then having the YPs review the list: 2. Garage 3. Community room 4. Turn-key (modern appliances, ready to go) 5. In-Unit Washer-Dryer 6. Home feel 7. Property appearance 8. Neighborhood appearance 9. Enhanced Culture (multi-generational, no student housing next door) 10. Pets 11. Well / Healthy Managed The YPs also added: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

School Inclusion of options/simplicity Shorter lease term Green space availability Community of Young Professionals near housing 6. Close to shopping 7. Ability to walk to work was a factor for a handful 2-3 miles from work (10 % of attendees) For many, rental housing was a progression (ex. many roommates, one roommate, single living, home ownership, etc.).

Knowing how they find housing is also important. The YP group provided the answers: Craig’s List (75% of attendees); Apartments.

DETERRENTS TO RENTAL HOUSING OPTIONS Factors that caused them not to rent a property: smell/stink, location/access to

your spot today at www.lacrossechamber. com.

of labels that includes the primary contacts from each of our Chamber members.

DIRECT MAIL Are you planning a direct mail campaign and want to ensure you’re using the most up-to-date list? Let us help. By purchasing mailing labels from the Chamber, you’ll cut down on the time and expense of compiling

Once per quarter, we assemble our own direct mail packet: Opportunity Knocks. Your team develops and prints 1,600 one-third page inserts. The Chamber assembles the packet and pays for postage on this bulk mailing reaching approximately 1600 members.

and updating your own listing of business organizations. $150 will provide you with a set

Opportunity Knocks is the perfect tool to provide coupons and discounts to a business-

community amenities, poor construction materials/cheap finishes, safety of neighborhood (comfort at night outside, lighting, aesthetics of neighboring houses, upkeep of neighborhood), parking options, availability of “out of cycle” leases. AFFORDABILITY The task force identified student housing as a driver in market demand and pricing. Student housing is increasing demand, which is driving up market rates. Wages may not support higher-quality rentals. One of the task force’s next steps is identifying YP price points and determining how willing they are to share bedrooms and multiple bedrooms. FAMILY HOUSING With Young Professionals defined by the Chamber as 21-40 year olds, there are two life stages encompassed -- single and married. “Not to be ignored in the conversation is the difficulty for families to find single-family rentals,” said Markussen. “The task force realized that for families moving to the area, schools are a higher factor in single family rentals.”

focused audience. If you’re unsure which marketing opportunity is best for your business, please reach out. We’ll work with you to find the best combination of marketing, advertising and sponsorship options to meet your goals and help your business thrive.

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.

SUE KOLVE-FEEHAN (SUE KOLVE’S

NATHAN FRANKLIN (DAIRYLAND POWER

Our Facilities Committee has been

SALON & DAY SPA, THE SALON

COOPERATIVE) and LAURA OLSON

persistent in getting our land at 7th and

PROFESSIONAL ACADEMY), MARY

(GUNDERSEN HEALTH SYSTEM) are a

La Crosse Street and our old building (712

JO WERNER (WIPFLI), AND NATHAN

co-chair power team in casting new vision

Main Street) in its final stages of selling.

FRANKLIN (DAIRYLAND POWER

for The Forum (session with our locally-

Way to go: JACK PEPLINSKI (ALTRA

COOPERATIVE) are top recruiters for

elected Madison representatives held every

FEDERAL CREDIT UNION), STEVE

what is now a record number of a diverse

second Monday). The two continue to find

NICOLAI (NICOLAI APARTMENTS), JOE

business leaders considering attending

interesting speakers and innovate this

POEHLING (FIRST SUPPLY), DAVE BOOTH

our D.C. Fly-In. Each year the La Crosse

informative event.

(WXOW-19), BRUCE FRIELL (GUNDERSEN

Area Chamber takes a delegation to Washington D.C. to talk with our region’s Congressional representatives on issues important to our region. This year’s trip is April 26-27.

HEALTH SYSTEM), MARK HYDE (KRAUS-

GREG BRICKL (BRICKL BROTHERS) singlehandedly set up a key appointment for the Chamber to form a new level of engagement with a business.

ANDERSON OF LA CROSSE), BRANDON PRINSEN (JOHNS, FLAHERTY & COLLINS, SC), FORREST MOE (SCHOMBURG REFRIGERATION CO.), LYNN BRUNS (ISG), AND SCOTT KISH (SCHUMACHER-KISH FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES).

Ribbon Cuttings

CLOTHES MENTOR JANUARY 12 - Clothes Mentor Ribbon Cutting to celebrate the grand opening of the new Clothes Mentor Onalaska location.

WAXING THE CITY FEBRUARY 4 - Waxing the City Ribbon Cutting to celebrate the grand opening of Waxing the City at Grand River Station.

What’s Happening at the Chamber medical purposes remain top concerns

in downtown La Crosse. Robin spoke of the

for Sen. Shilling. Billings says to watch the

work to get more people living downtown

University tax cuts. Many Republicans have

to patronize those businesses. Feedback

concerns about this round of tuition cuts

from the YPs included needing more

and foresee that the current proposal will

places to live that are multi-generational,

change.

needing longer hours, more places to sit outside, more family-friendly events.

The Forum

For Uptowne North, the group identified cleaning up the image, having outdoor patio food/drinking, staying open after

THE FORUM

5:00, having it be a change of pace, and

Jan. 9: The greater La Crosse area’s elected

connecting it with the river.

officials to Madison gave insight into the Governor unveiling the budget and his State of the State address. The first discussions of new redistricting were discussed. Feb. 13: Congressman Ron Kind spoke on his job creation, healthcare, tax reform,

YPCR

sustainable budgeting, farm bill, student

At its February session, Lewis Kuhlman

debt and social security/medicare focuses.

(Planner, City of La Crosse), Robin Moses

Governor Walker’s budget was the main

(Downtown Mainstreet), and Nick Roush

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

focus of this session for state-elected

(Uptowne North visionary) presented on

On Jan. 12, attendees learned of the many

attendees Steve Doyle, Jennifer Shilling

“IMPLEMENT: Keeping our Small Business

services available at The Parenting Place,

and Jill Billings. Transportation funding

Charm”. The session originated from the

toured the location and enjoyed wonderful

remains a top need but has little chance

visioning session by the YPs that identified

food and beverages.

with Gov. Walker stating no new taxes.

the downtown charm as key to attracting

Lincoln Hills and cannabis oil bills for

and keeping young professionals. Lewis spoke of the work to create more public art

SOFT SKILLS SUMMIT

Upgrading individual employee’s soft skills

understanding what needs to be done at

is critical to helping business meet their

the K-12 level to ensure the students leave

workforce needs.

high school equipped with the appropriate

by Teresa Pierce,

The forum was designed to get input

Director, Workforce

from businesses regarding the depth

Connections, Inc.

and breadth of their concerns and

Workforce Connections, Inc. and the La Crosse Chamber cosponsored a forum on Soft Skills needs in the area. With the forecasted labor shortage in full bloom, business and industry partners consistently articulate that they are in need of more employees to meet their business demands. However, business partners and other agencies also articulate that one

provide an avenue for problem solving. In this forum, the term “soft skills” were generally defined as “personality traits that impact other people. The qualities of a person beyond their knowledge of the job – examples include communication, courtesy, flexibility, integrity, attitude,

soft skills, and creating a seamless avenue for businesses to use to funnel potential employees to Job Center services if they identify individuals that do not have the necessary skills set. Workforce Connections, Inc. continues to work directly with business to identify those pathways to the job center. This issue will continue to be explored in other workforce development venues.

professionalism, responsibility, work ethic, teamwork.”

major barrier is that potential employees

The members identified both long term

lack essential workplace “soft skills.”

and short term concerns including better

Upcoming Events MARCH 13 - SPECIAL FORUM: LUNCHEON

included in your membership investment

WITH GOVERNOR WALKER

but also the options available at various

Join us at The Waterfront Restaurant for

APRIL 13 - BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

a luncheon with Governor Walker, while

AT WESTERN TECHNICAL COLLEGE’S

he addresses the state budget and other

LUNDA CENTER

important items. This event is open to

5:15PM - 6:30PM

CHAMBER O EA FC AR

CE MER OM

LA CRO SS E

Chamber Members only.

57TH ANNUAL

price points. If you’re considering utilizing the Chamber’s business-to-business marketing options, you won’t want to miss this event!

Western Technical College’s mission is to

APRIL 12 - HONOR

provide relevant, high quality education

STUDENT BANQUET

in a collaborative and sustainable

AT UNIVERSITY OF

environment that changes the lives of

WISCONSIN-LA CROSSE’S

students and grows communities. Thanks

NEW STUDENT CENTER

to a successful referendum in 2012, they

The Young Professionals of the Coulee

are positioned to continue this mission

Region will be participating in YP Week

for many years to come. You’re invited to

2017, a state-wide initiative to recognize

learn about the services they offer for the

the impact of Young Professionals on

business community and tour the newly

our business community and in our

completed facilities.

workplaces. The YPCR group will host

5:30PM - 8:30PM Help the local business community and the La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation send off the top five percent of graduating seniors from local high schools with a recognition banquet in their honor.

APRIL 20 - MAXIMIZE YOUR

We are currently seeking businesses to

MEMBERSHIP

sponsor students and/or sponsor the event.

7:30AM - 8:30AM

For more information, contact Maggie Christian 608.784.4880 or maggie@ lacrossechamber.com.

APRIL 22-29 - YPWEEK

several events during YPWeek this year including a collaboration with Mississippi Steam Roll and an outdoor cleanup.

This is your chance to learn about the various marketing and advertising opportunities offered at the Chamber. We’ll cover not only the opportunities

2017 - 2020 New Board Members & Officers The La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed two new board members with the start of the year. Board members serve three-year terms, two terms maximum. Joining the board are: BARBARA NICK, CEO, DAIRYLAND POWER COOPERATIVE Barbara brings her nearly thirty years of energy-industry experience including personnel, customer service, field operations, corporate services, strategic planning, bulk power sales and senior leadership to the Chamber Board. Her specialties are executive leadership, general management, and communications. STEVE LOEHR, COO, KWIK TRIP Steve brings his vast operational knowledge at Kwik Trip to the Chamber Board. Steve has

9 7

agreed to chair the operational strategic plan focus area for the Chamber. BRAD DINSMOOR (DINSMOOR STRATEGIES) moves from the Membership Advisory position to a full board position in 2017.

Advisory Position Membership Board advisers are chairs of committees in which board representation is needed to ensure communication between the board and committees. They are allowed to vote on issues. WENDY FRANKE, DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR (WI, MN, IL, & ND) & FRANCHISE OWNER, N2 PUBLISHING Wendy brings her franchise, development, networking expertise and small business

knowledge to the Board.

Ex-Officio - Tourism Ex-officio members of the board are positions provided to our long-timeago spin-off organizations (Downtown Mainstreet, La Crosse Area Development Corporation and Explore La Crosse) to help with communication. A.J. FRELS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, LA CROSSE COUNTY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Officers Named Officers of the Chamber serve one year terms.

Chairman: Joe Poehling (First Supply) Chairman-Elect: Ed Jaekel (JRM Associates) Vice-Chair: Lynn Bruns (ISG) Treasurer: Randy Berg (Trane) Past Chairman: Joe Kruse (Mayo Clinic)

Connecting Members to Members GENSLER is proud to congratulate Joan Meyers, Managing Director, on her appointment as a Principal of the firm. George Boyd and Kelly Ostrem have been appointed as Associates. Join GUNDERSEN HEALTH SYSTEM’S Minutes in Motion Activity Challenge, March 20 – April 30, 2017. Improve your health and energy with 30 minutes every day. This six week challenge is FREE to you and your worksite. Registration opens Feb. 20 at gundersenhealth.org/mim LEGALSHIELD INDEPENDENT ASSOCIATE, MELISSA REMIS, welcomes the Stanley McDonald Agency in Onalaska as a new broker of the LegalShield and IDShield plans for individuals, families, small businesses, and as an employee benefit. www. whatismyplan.com Cole Passe has joined the UPPER MIDWEST DIVISION OFFICE OF MUTUAL OF OMAHA as a Training Recruiting Specialist in LaCrosse. In his position, Passe will recruit and provide product and field training to the Company’s sales representatives in LaCrosse and surrounding communities. REFERRAL STAFFING SOLUTIONS is opening a 3rd location downtown La

Crosse on March 6th at 250 Main Street (2nd floor of the Powell Place building). President, Shobi Nunemacher, states “Our new location, in the heart of La Crosse, will allow us to better serve our clients and candidates.” SERVPRO OF LA CROSSE COUNTY would like to congratulate Heidi Prestwood on her IICRC Certification of Water Restoration Technician. She is available to help with your commercial or residential water restoration needs to make it “like it never even happened”. Michelle Kronfeld, Ph.D., has been named Vice President for Enrollment Management at VITERBO UNIVERSITY. She’ll lead the university’s recruitment, retention, and marketing efforts. Kronfeld was the director of graduate admissions and services at St. Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa.

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.

Attend VITERBO UNIVERSITY’S free Community Health Fair on Tuesday, April 11 from 2-6 p.m. in the Mathy Center on campus. There will be health screenings, door prizes, snacks, and a blood drive. For more information visit www.viterbo.edu/ healthfair.

Join Us as A Voice in D.C. APRIL 26-27 DC FLY-IN LARGEST DELEGATION YET This is a great year to experience the impact of being a part of the local delegation going to Washington D.C. for the La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce’s DC Fly-In. With our largest number of new attendees yet, you won’t be alone in experiencing walking the halls where federal decisions are made and meeting with the people who make it happen, all while being a voice for the greater La Crosse area.

the negative impact, particularly on our nonprofits, of the proposed “Overtime for Salaried Employees” executive order that would cause businesses to pay overtime for anyone earning less than $49,000. The Chamber argued that salary in La Crosse, Wisconsin is very different than in New York City, Washington D.C. and Los Angeles. The ruling was stopped three days before it would have been implemented.

“With so much changing nearly daily in Washington, D.C., this is a critical year to emphasize the action needed at the US Capitol that will impact greater La Crosse,” said Vicki Markussen, executive director of the La Crosse Area Chamber. “La Crosse is one of the few Chambers in Wisconsin that does our own DC Fly-In. It is a sign of our commitment to advocating for our businesses.”

“I love the relationships that we build as a direct result from each visit,” said Sue Kolve-Feehan, Owner/Director of The Salon Professional Academy and also Sue Kolve’s Salon and Day Spa. “It is incredibly valuable! It is important to have face to face communication with our government leaders. This allows our business community to give input on potential legislation. This is one of the events that is a priority on my calendar, and I hope you are able to join us.”

Last year one of the top issues taken was

Attendees do not pay anything other than travel, room and board. Most people arrive the day before (Tuesday, April 25) and either leave later Thursday (April 27) missing a few of the sessions or on Friday, April 28. Most of the group stays at the Army Navy Hotel near the White House, which is very affordable ($240/night) for D.C. While the meals are at the high Washington D.C. rates, the camaraderie with your fellow La Crosse delegates is part of the experience. If you’re interested, the most important first steps are to secure your hotel room, then your flight. Information can be found at www.lacrossechamber.com/dc-fly-in/. Contact Vicki Markussen at the Chamber with questions: 608.784.4880 or vicki@ lacrossechamber.com

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

Platinum Sponsors

Gold Sponsors Welcome New Members! AMBROSIA GARDENS LANDSCAPING / MCKAY NURSERY 360 5th Ave N Onalaska, WI 54650 608.796.0911 Travis Seigenthaler Landscaping C & C MACHINE 159 Buchner Place La Crosse, WI 54603 608.784.4427 Jason Lawton Manufacturers

Silver Sponsors

IC SYSTEM 301 Sand Lake Road Onalaska, WI 54650 800.443.4123 Tanner Kabat Call Center LIVE ALIGNED 1438 Main St Onalaska, WI 54650 608.519.2519 Scott Cichosz Chiropractors SCIART STUDIO ARCHITECTURE & PLANNING 115 5th Avenue South #425 La Crosse, WI 54601 608.519.5640 sciartstudio.com Mark Schmitt Architects

STYLE ENCORE 420 Theatre Road Onalaska, WI 54650 608.779.0515 style-encoreonalaska.com Jordyn Rasmussen Resale Stores WAXING THE CITY 1319 South 3rd St La Crosse, WI 54601 608.519.4409 waxingthecity.com Emmy Wallace Beauty