MAY - JUNE 2018
2017 ANNUAL REPORT
Ed Jaekel - Chair
2017 HEADS INTO 2018
JRM CPAs, LLC
I always knew that I hated looking
Lynn Bruns, Chair-Elect
backwards to do annual reports. While
ISG
it’s fun to look at accomplishments, I
Bruce Friell Vice-Chair Elect (Secretary)
get more energized looking forward.
CHAMBER LEADERSHIP EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Gundersen Health System Joe Poehling, Past Chair First Supply, LLC Randy Berg - Treasurer Trane
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Kerstin Boudreau Metre Chris Butler Verve, a Credit Union Jansen Dahl Dahl Automotive La Crosse Brad Dinsmoor Dinsmoor Strategies
Then I did Strength Finders and “Futurist” came in as my #3 strength – i.e. I am inspired by the future and what could be to the point of inspiring
One of our dedicated hires, Kate
Just know that talking about our 2017
Frels, our intern this past summer,
year is killing me because I REALLY
did tremendous work in 2017 delving
want to talk about what’s ahead!
into our pending 150th annual
My #1 Restorative strength (problem solver) continues to ask – what needs do our members have that our Chamber must address? We continue to try to align our programs and services to those needs. At the tail end of 2017 we made
N2 Publishing
two leaps of faith, knowing how to
A.J. Frels, Ex-Officio
“catch” them in 2018 – we hired
Explore La Crosse
Chin-Chin Minniear, who worked
Spencer Hegenbarth, Board Advisor
on 7 Rivers Alliance’s WISE plan, to
RE/MAX First Choice
help us implement the plan’s talent
James Hill, Ex-Officio
development strategies – which
La Crosse Area Development Corporation (LADCO)
remains the #1 problem expressed by
Scott Kish
employers. The problem will continue
Schumacher-Kish Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc.
for the next 15 years. Chin-Chin is also
Sue Kolve-Feehan
very versed in advocacy, having worked
The Salon Professional Academy
for a firm in Washington D.C. This
Brian Koopman
investment in programs you need has
Trust Point, Inc.
already seen the start of great work of
Steve Loehr
developing a concierge program to help
Kwik Trip
businesses attract talent from outside
Robin Moses, Ex-Officio
the area and also implementing our
Downtown Mainstreet, Inc.
first candidate survey in a long period
Amy Noel
of time.
Mayo Clinic Health System Tim Oliver, Board Advisor
Our second hire is a job-share for a
US Bank
marketing person, Sarah Gang. We
Brandon Prinsen
heard through surveys that you value
Johns, Flaherty & Collins, SC
access to business information as a
JoAnn Steffes
membership value. A dedicated, part-
Steffes HR Advantage
time marketing person who joined at
Glena Temple
the start of 2018 moves us forward
Viterbo University
in providing you better information
The Parenting Place Jeff Wieser Wieser Brothers General Contractor, Inc.
channels now available.
others with their visions of the future.
Wendy Franke, Board Advisor
Jodi Widuch
through the many communication
meeting and the incredibly robust documenting of the Chamber’s 150 years. Our story is truly the story of successful businesses in our area. We will revisit our accomplishments and try to move them forward with retro-inspired events such as moving our diversity forward, visiting another community in spirt of the early days of the Chamber, celebrating faith in leadership, and much more. This past year has been a reminder to our entire team of what fuels our Chamber. It is not the members who want to “use” the Chamber, but rather it is those want to unite as a business community to improve our public community – i.e. the greater good. We have been blessed to have businesses that have existed for more than 100 years, and still many more around for 70+ - they make 50+ years in business look young! There is much to celebrate as we highlight 150 years between now and our revamped Business Expo in November. We could not do it without your investment. Thank you. Here’s to a spectacular 150th year!
Vicki Markussen Executive Director
COVER STORY
CONTACT THE CHAMBER VICKI MARKUSSEN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 608-784-4880 ext. 226 vicki@lacrossechamber.com
ANNUAL REPORT............... PGS 3-4 TABLE OF CONTENTS
ANGELA SEEGER, BUSINESS OUTREACH REPRESENTATIVE 608-784-4880 ext. 225 angela@lacrossechamber.com
Honor Student Banquet.............................................................................................................................................................................5 Forum Recaps................................................................................................................................................................................................5 Advocacy.........................................................................................................................................................................................................6 DC Fly In...........................................................................................................................................................................................................6 Rockstars.........................................................................................................................................................................................................6 Business After Hours...................................................................................................................................................................................7 150th Anniversary/Celebration...............................................................................................................................................................8 Ribbon Cuttings..................................................................................................................................................................................... 9-10 Upcoming 150th Events......................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Golf Outing.................................................................................................................................................................................................. 11 Diversity Event............................................................................................................................................................................................ 11 Young Professionals................................................................................................................................................................................. 12 Connecting Members to Members..................................................................................................................................................... 14
MAGGIE CHRISTIAN, OPERATIONS DIRECTOR 608-784-4880 ext. 224 maggie@lacrossechamber.com
SARAH GANG, MARKETING DIRECTOR 608-784-4880 ext. 223 sarah@lacrossechamber.com
RANDY FISCHER, FINANCE DIRECTOR 608-784-4880 ext. 223 randy@lacrossechamber.com.
CHIN-CHIN MINNIEAR, MPP TALENT DEVELOPMENT & ADVOCACY DIRECTOR
B.J. HAMILTON IS AT
608-784-4880 ext. 227 chin-chin@lacrossechamber.com
MERCHANTS BANK
JAMI REDENBAUGH, MEMBER RELATIONS
Merchants is proud to welcome Mortgage Lender B.J. Hamilton to our growing team. Connect with B.J. today.
608-784-4880 jami@lacrossechamber.com
MAGAZINE LAYOUT BY JACOB KLATTE jmklattedesign@gmail.com
B.J. Hamilton (507) 895-9708 BJHamilton@merchantsbank.com
Hiring UWL students just became easier! Visit https://app.joinhandshake.com to advertise your job opening to UWL students.
Visit us online at www.merchantsbank.com
Local community decisions. Regional strength. 21 Locations Serving Minnesota and Wisconsin Member FDIC
It’s free and convenient!
Let us know if you have any questions.
UWL FINANCIAL AID OFFICE 608.785.8604 | fax: 608.785.8843
www.uwlax.edu/finaid
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2017 ANNUAL REPORT VISION
NEW STAFF INTRODUCTION
By uniting and sharing resources, businesses in La Crosse
The Chamber recently welcomed three new faces to the office and
County will thrive through strategic growth, a positive
we are very excited to introduce them!
business climate, and a community that is growing,
ANGELA SEEGER BUSINESS OUTREACH REP.
attractive and safe for their employees.
MISSION
We are very excited to welcome Angela
To grow businesses in La Crosse County by connecting
Seeger, our new Business Outreach
them to each other, strengthening their companies, and
Rep., to the Chamber team! Angela
advocating on their behalf.
is a great resource for connecting our members through membership, ribbon
2017 RECAP AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS
cuttings, and opportunities to help businesses in the community.
CHIN-CHIN MINNIEAR TALENT DEVELOPMENT AND ADVOCACY DIRECTOR The Chamber also welcomed ChinChin Minniear recently as the Talent Development and Advocacy Director. Chin-Chin will be leading all efforts to be the voice of the business members in government issues and other advocacy topics. She is also leading projects to grow our talent pool in La Crosse, including launching a concierge service and trailing spouse program.
SARAH GANG MARKETING DIRECTOR Sarah Gang recently started as the Marketing Director for the Chamber and will be leading the marketing efforts of the Chamber.
THANK YOU TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS: Diamond: Altra Federal Credit Union, First Supply, Inc., Gundersen Health System, Kwik Trip, Mayo Clinic Health System, Trane Platinum: Brickl Bros., Wieser Brothers Gold: Bremer Bank, Coulee Bank, Dairyland Power Cooperative, La Crosse Tribune River Valley Media, Merchants Bank, Viterbo University, WXOW-19 Silver: BMO Harris Bank, DBS Group, Gensler, Hawkins Ash, ISG, Market & Johnson, State Bank, Three Sixty Real Estate, Verve, a Credit Union
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Bronze: Dependable Solutions
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THE FORUM RECAP
Mark your calendar for the next Forum on May 14th, when we’ll welcome back our federal legislators and/or their staff.
The Forum is a monthly breakfast focused on public policy issues. For a small fee, members and non-members can connect with public officials and guest speakers, including state legislators during even-numbered months. We also occasionally host special Forums on hot topics of interest. The Forum meets at 7:30 am every 2nd Monday of the month.
NOVEMBER 2017: Superintendents Randy Nelson (La Crosse
FEBRUARY 2018:
School District) and Kristin Mueller (Holmen School District)
We welcomed former
highlighted some of the efforts by local area schools to prepare
legislators to celebrate
the future workforce. Career planning is now underway in both
the Chamber’s 150th
middle and high school, and various training opportunities, such
anniversary and the 39th
as youth apprenticeships, are available to equip students with
anniversary of the Cracker
hands-on skills. The schools are also working to build resilience
Barrel. Former Senators
and character and to find all available means to create avenues of
Dan Kapanke and Brian
success for their students.
Rude, as well as former Representative John Medinger, were able
DECEMBER 2017: State Senator Patrick Testin (R-Stevens
to join us. Along with our current state legislators, they formed
Point) discussed his experiences and perspectives as a new
running for election, how has the legislature changed over time,
legislator, as well as relevant policy issues for our region. As Chair of the Committee on Workforce Development, Military
a panel addressing questions such as how they got interested in and how we can do better going forward.
Affairs and Senior Issues, he warned about the problematic
MARCH 2018: Jason
worker shortage in our area and its adverse impact on
Gilman, Director of
businesses. He also spoke about some of his successful
Planning & Development
legislative efforts, such as legislation to combat the use of
for the City of La
dangerous synthetic opioids.
Crosse, shared the
JANUARY 2018: Congressman Ron Kind (D-WI) and U.S.
latest regarding the
Senator Baldwin (D-WI) sent their respective staff members,
sites as well as the city’s
Brad Pfaff and Ryan Cornett, to share perspectives on the federal tax reform package. Mr. Pfaff and Mr. Cornett expressed reservations regarding the new law’s ability to achieve simplification of the tax code and added that it may grow the national debt. Mr. Cornett shared concerns over the repeal of net neutrality and gridlock on DACA. Mr. Pfaff was hopeful that Congress will address transportation infrastructure reform in a bipartisan way.
redevelopment of retail plans for collecting comprehensive data for the next decade of policymaking. Tim Acklin, Senior Planner, presented elements of the Hwy 53 corridor master plan, which proposes a pulse node concept that is meant to advance livability and diverse land use, promote neighborhoods, and foster sustainability. The Hwy 53 master plan is available on the Planning page of the City’s website, along with information about many of its other projects.
JANUARY 29TH SPECIAL FORUM: Mary Jo Werner, partner at Wipfli and tax reform expert, led a Special Forum explaining how the new tax reform legislation will affect businesses and individuals. Ms. Werner helpfully explained the most notable changes to the law and pointed out that while business tax changes are permanent, individual tax provisions are in place only through 2025.
APRIL 2018: Representative Steve Doyle provided a wrapup of the 2017-18 session. Among other things, Rep. Doyle announced that a bipartisan package of bills designed to support foster children and reduce the need for foster care in Wisconsin passed and were signed into law by Governor Walker. We also provided an overview of issues that will be raised during the DC Fly-In on April 25-26, 2018, including infrastructure, health care, workforce, and tax reform/regulation.
HONOR STUDENT BANQUET CELEBRATES 80 LOCAL STUDENTS For the 58th year, the Honor Student Banquet, hosted by the La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, united topperforming high school seniors, their parents, local high school leadership and members of the greater La Crosse business community for an evening filled with community and recognition. Eighty high school seniors from eleven area high schools were recognized for achieving the honor of graduating in the top five-percent of their high school class. Business leaders sponsored the students to attend the April 18th banquet, where they heard keynote speaker, Joe
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Kruse, Chief Administrative Officer from Mayo Clinic Health System - Franciscan Healthcare, expand on leadership within the community.
ADVOCACY UPDATES UPDATE ON THE PREMIER RESORT AREA TAX (PRAT) LEGISLATION Last fall, companion bills AB610 and SB493 were introduced in the State Assembly and Senate, respectively, which would authorize La Crosse County as a premier resort area. That designation would allow the county to add an additional 0.5 percent tax to “tourism-related” businesses’ sales to support local transportation funding. The collective business community came out opposed to the PRAT due to its potential negative effect on businesses, employees, and customers. No other county in Wisconsin collects the PRAT, and estimates showed that up to 88 percent of the new tax burden could fall to La Crosse area residents rather than tourists. To make the business voice heard, the Chamber partnered with Explore La Crosse, the Tavern League, the North La Crosse Business Association, and Downtown Mainstreet to send letters to key legislative leaders expressing opposition to the proposed tax. About 180 people took the time to voice their opposition. During the 2017-2018 session of the Wisconsin Legislature, no action was taken by either legislative committee to which the bill was referred. Ultimately, on March 28th, 2018, pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1, AB610 and SB493 failed to pass.
COUNTY BOARD CANDIDATE SURVEYS To better inform our members and voters, ahead of this year’s April 3rd elections, we asked candidates running for contested county board seats in La Crosse County (including Districts 15, 16, 18, 24, and 25) to complete a questionnaire on topics important to our business community. We thank these candidates for their time and effort in completing the survey. Two incumbents who retained their seats expressed the following: Monica Cruse noted that the Board should be “open to what the business community tells us is needed”. She also highlighted the importance of working together to solve the transportation funding problem. Dan Ferries expressed support for the Board’s continued membership in the Chamber “because it enhances business promotion and development”.
DC FLY-IN The Chamber’s annual visit to Washington, DC takes place on April 25-26th this year. A group of twelve individuals from various industries have signed up to attend. The delegation is scheduled to meet with staff at about a dozen Congressional and Governor’s offices – and barring floor votes at the time of our visits, we anticipate seeing at least four elected officials (Cong. Kind, Cong. Gallagher, Sen. Baldwin, and Sen. Johnson). Our issues fall into 4 primary categories: Infrastructure, Health Care, Workforce, and Tax Reform/Regulation. More specifically, we plan to advocate for transportation funding, river infrastructure, flood plain relief, the 340B drug discount program, swing bed reimbursement for critical access hospitals, funding for talent attraction and retention in small towns and rural communities, greater flexibility in on-ramping new workers, and marketplace fairness, among others.
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.
Thank you to our members who helped with Operation Thank You, to hand deliver important information with our Chamber members: BERNARD BLACK (Western Technical College), BRUCE FRIELL (Gundersen Health System), CHRISTOPHER RICHGELS (RE/MAX First Choice - Brian Stephan), ED JAEKEL (JRM, CPAs), GINA MILLER (Merchants Bank), GREG LAMPRICH (Brown & Brown of Wisconsin), IAN WALKER (PeopleFirst HR Solutions), JOE KRUSE (Mayo Clinic Health System - Franciscan Healthcare), LAURA STIEHL (JRM CPAs), LAURIE CAFE (Valley View Mall), MELANIE CHAPEL (Advisors Management Group), PAT STEPHENS (Irishfest), PETER GRABOW (Mayo Clinic Health System Foundation), RANDY PRETASKY (US Bank), TINA ANTONY (Springbrook Assisted Living), WENDY FRANKE (N2 Publishing), TED STEEBS (Honda Motorwerks), TIM OLIVER (US Bank), and SUE KOLVE-FEEHAN (The Salon Professional Academy.
Many thanks to our members who helped with preparations and braved the snowstorm to assist in check-in for the Chamber’s 150th Annual Meeting/Celebration on March 5: AMY STUDDEN (Department of Workforce Development), TINA ANTONY (Springbrook Assisted Living), MELANIE CHAPEL (Advisors Management Group), SHEILA CONNORS (Shenanigans). Thank you to our members who gave great ideas to help us elevate this year’s Honor Student Banquet: DANIELLE ANDERSON (Altra Federal Credit Union), RICK EICKMEIER (Anytime Fitness - Onalaska), JOAN MEYERS (Gensler), ANN WEIDNER (Gundersen Health System), STEVE LOEHR (Kwik Trip), JOE KRUSE (Mayo Clinic Health System), HEIDI ODEGAARD (Mayo Clinic Health System), AMY NOEL (Mayo Clinic Health System),
GINA MILLER (Merchants Bank), SHAWN MCALISTER (Onalaska Area Business Association), JUDY GULL (RE/MAX First Choice), KAROLYN BALD (University of Wisconsin-La Crosse), CAITLIN LOCY (Viterbo University), BERNARD BLACK (Western Technical College), ANDREA WIESER (Wieser Brothers General Contractor, Inc.). Many thanks to attorney BRANDON PRINSEN (Johns Flaherty) who took a loose agreement between the Chamber and a company we share a marketing person with, and made it legally compliant and IRS employee law sensitive.
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BUSINESS AFTER HOURS RECAP
FEBRUARY 15
SMALL BUSINESS AFTER HOURS The first of its kind, this event offered our small business members (80% of our membership) the opportunity to cost share while co-hosting a Business After Hours. Co-hosts included Advanced Business Systems, Inc; Marco; Manpower; Fifth Avenue Awards and Ameritas Group. This was well-received, with several of our small businesses asking when we’d be offering another opportunity for this format. We’re hoping to offer this again in late fall or early 2019.
MARCH 8
HOSTED BY UW - LA CROSSE Guests were hosted by the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse Continuing
Education & Extension and University Centers in the student union, where they learned about the benefits and opportunities of collaborating with University of Wisconsin-La Crosse while enjoying complimentary beverages and themed food stations.
APRIL 12
HOSTED BY GENSLER
April Business After Hours was hosted by Gensler in their offices on the second floor of Belle Square. Guests explored the unique venue and learned about the intentional design and multifunctional work spaces that Gensler offers.
WANT TO HOST A BUSINESS AFTER HOURS?
You could host as early as June - contact the Chamber today to find out more! Take advantage of this opportunity to connect with other business leaders at your location! Business After Hours events are hosted by a member business every 2nd Thursday of the month.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS! JOIN US THURSDAY, MAY 10TH AT 5:00-6:30PM FOR A BUSINESS AFTER HOURS HOSTED BY THREE SIXTY REAL ESTATE SOLUTIONS.
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150 ANNIVERSARY RECAP
On Monday, March 5th, 2018, members braved the winter storm to attend our 150th Annual Meeting/Celebration. The celebration was a success and the evening included dinner, speakers, and a video done by WXOW highlighting the history of the Chamber. Attendees also had the opportunity to view a timeline of the Chamber’s 150 year history. The timeline will be on display at the Chamber of Commerce and at future events. The 2018 Award Recipients that were honored at the event included: •
The Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration - Community Service Award, for their outstanding service and work in the La Crosse community
•
Kwik Trip - Regional Progress Award, for their exciting expansion and growing the workforce by over 300 employees in the next five years
•
Josh Pogreba - Small Business Award, for his transformational influence on the north side of La Crosse with his reopening of Pogreba Restaurant
•
Nathan Franklin - Leadership Award, for his work in advocacy issues surrounding the La Crosse business community and for his work while serving as the Advocacy Chairman of the Chamber
•
Laura Olson - Volunteer of the Year Award, for her outstanding commitment in coordinating advocacy events for the Chamber including the 2017 Oktoberfest Bus Trip reception in Madison overlooking the Capital
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RIBBON CUTTINGS
Schedule a ribbon cutting or groundbreaking ceremony through the Chamber by contacting info@lacrossechamber.com at least two weeks in advance.
WERNER ELECTRIC November 2, 2017. Groundbreaking on their new location in La Crosse.
COLGAN AIR December 15, 2017. To celebrate their new “Customer Welcome Center” and expanded space.
ABR EMPLOYMENT March 1, 2018. Opening of their new location.
DUNKIN DONUTS November 16, 2017. To celebrate the 2nd Anniversary of Dunkin Donuts in La Crosse.
LIVE ALIGNED CHIROPRACTIC January 5, 2018. Expansion and remodeling of their space.
FANNIN COUNSELING & ART THERAPY March 2, 2018. To celebrate their grand opening.
CELEBRATING WITH THE CHAMBER’S 150 YEARS - THE LA CROSSE CLUB Offering a nearly unparalleled view on the Mississippi River on the exclusively on the southwest corner of the Radisson, its lounge, small meeting rooms, dining and cocktail bar settings offer a variety of lunch or dinner options or social gathering for guests 2-99.
For more information go to www.lacrosse club.org or call 608.784.0220.
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NEW IN 2018 The Club is waiving its joining fee. They also are offering multiple employees, friends and relatives through one membership. OFFERINGS: * Day rental for private functions * Evening or weekend events rental* La Crosse Country Club reciprocity (up to three/year or one event) * Reciprocity with other clubs, many that include hotels (ex. New York City or Washington D.C.)
BORTON CONSTRUCTION, INC. & NOTROB HOLDINGS, LLC November 30, 2017. Opening of their building - 814 Main Street in Holmen, WI that will house multiple offices.
JOHNSON BLOCK & COMPANY January 17, 2018. To celebrate their new location into a newly remodeled space.
CELL PLUS/U.S. CELLULAR AGENT March 15, 2018. Opening of an additional location in Holmen.
GERRARD-HOESCHLER April 10, 2018. Grand opening of their new Pettibone Point
development with developers - Mathy Construction and Wieser Brothers.
COULEE BANK December 15, 2017. Opening of their newest location in Holmen, WI.
MAPLEWOOD DENTAL February 6, 2018. To celebrate their new location.
SPRINGBROOK ASSISTED LIVING March 22, 2018. Opening of a new location in La Crescent.
DAVID RAEY’S MODERN DINER + TAVERN April 17, 2018. Grand Opening.
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150TH ANNIVERSARY (RE)FOCUS Six More Seats Per Flight Tips the LSE Airport Since La Crosse’s airport was at Salzer Field (now Erickson Park in La Crosse), the Chamber has pushed the airport to new levels - from hangars to airmail to a city-owned location to a terminal. At a meeting on Tuesday, April 17, we united businesses to encourage a “fly local” policy at area companies that fly frequently with the airline-coveted business travel. With just six people traveling per flight out of La Crosse, we tip the numbers for the La Crosse Region Airport to be even more desirable for airlines and additional flights. Clinton Torp, airport manager, explained how American Airlines has invested heavily in two additional flights coming into La Crosse from now through the summer. We need to increase those flying out of LSE to keep these flights. Companies are encouraged to join the LSE Leaders program, which is a sign of support by companies that make the La Crosse Airport their airport of choice. This support is helpful in attracting airlines and adding flights. For more information go to lseairport.com/content/lse-leaders
SAVE THE DATE!
MONDAY, AUGUST 27 | LA CROSSE COUNTRY CLUB
Four person scramble format with morning and afternoon flights available. Early bird registration launches June 4! Don’t miss out on this quality event, which raises funds for the La Crosse Area Chamber’s business advocacy efforts. This event sold out in two weeks last year, so plan ahead! If your business is looking for increased B2B visibility and brand recognition, consider one of our Golf Outing sponsorship opportunities, beginning at $150. For more information, or to secure your sponsorship, please reach out to info@lacrossechamber.com
ENGAGE: DEVELOP COLLECTIVE STRATEGIES TO DIVERSIFY YOUR WORKFORCE Co-hosted by the La Crosse Diversity Council (GLADC) MAY 8TH, 8:30-10:00 AM In celebration of the Chamber’s 150th anniversary, the Chamber and GLADC will host a conversation around strengthening our workforce by focusing on diversity. Chin-Chin Minniear of the Chamber will set the stage with a situational analysis, and our keynote speaker Nizam Arain, who serves as Director of Affirmative Action and Title IX Coordinator at UW–La Crosse, will cover strategies for moving the needle. Then we turn it over to you for an engaging, strategy-development session to determine what tools and changes are needed in order for our area to attract the talent needed to meet our growing worker shortage. The desired outcome will be goals and strategies driven by the organizations.
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LA CROSSE AREA CHAMBER ADVOCACY GOLF OUTING
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UNITING WISCONSIN’S YOUNG PROFESSIONAL TALENT HUMAN TRAFFICKING IN LA CROSSE WEDNESDAY, MAY 2 Hear the stats and discover the impact of this hidden issue within our community. New Horizons will share their role as a safe haven for victims of human trafficking, the assistance programs they offer and tips for what human trafficking looks like. Empower yourself and your workplace to help recognize and end human trafficking in our community.
THE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS OF THE COULEE REGION WERE EXCITED TO PARTICIPATE IN YPWEEK, ALONG WITH 27 OTHER COMMUNITIES THROUGHOUT THE GREAT STATE OF WISCONSIN. THIS IS LA CROSSE’S THIRD YEAR PARTICIPATING IN THIS UNIQUE, WEEK LONG PLATFORM THAT UNITES THE MILLENNIAL WORKFORCE TO EACH OTHER AND TO LOCAL EMPLOYERS FOR MEANINGFUL CONVERSATIONS ON TOPICS THAT MATTER. which includes a fireworks display. Get to know other young professionals in the area in a laid back, casual environment! Ages 21+ only. You must register and pay by June 1 to attend. There will be no walk-ins allowed.
LA CROSSE LOGGERS SOCIAL FRIDAY, JUNE 8 Join the La Crosse Area Chamber’s Young Professionals of the Coulee Region as they kickoff summer on Friday, June 8 as the La Crosse Loggers take on the Waterloo Bucks! Tickets are $25 per person and include drinks, all you can eat cookout and a private cabin for the group during the game,
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CONNECTING MEMBERS TO MEMBERS 7 RIVERS LEAN CONSORTIUM: 7 Rivers LEAN
Advocate, and Volunteer. Adrianne Olson
UW-LA CROSSE: University of Wisconsin-La
Consortium is hosting the 3rd annual Lean
AOlson@gruw.org
Crosse invites you to Communication That
Symposium May 15, 2018 7:30 – 4:00 PM at Western Technical College’s Lunda Center. Learn about Lean Standard Work, Lean Leadership principles, and the characteristics and positive impact of a high commitment Lean culture at all levels. Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/3rd-annuallean-symposium-the-transformative-leaderwith-amir-ghannad-tickets-42981222995?aff =ebdssbcitybrowse
ALLERGY ASSOCIATES: The Wellness Council of America (WELCOA), with local affiliate Wellness Council of Wisconsin (WCWI), recently presented its Small Business Well Workplace Award to Allergy Associates of La Crosse (AAOL). The award was given to AAOL to honor its commitment to the health and well-being of its employees.
BROWN & BROWN INSURANCE: Bob Breitzman has been promoted to EVP and office leader of Brown & Brown’s La Crosse, Wisconsin, office. Bob oversees day-to-day operations of the office as well as leads the strategic growth and business development initiatives for the entire team.
CHARTERPOINT WEALTH STRATEGIES: Charterpoint Wealth Strategies is pleased to announce that Alex Witt and Evan Brown have joined the firm. Alex is a graduate of UW-La Crosse & previous intern with Charterpoint Wealth Strategies. Evan comes to the firm from UW-La Crosse.
GENSLER: Gensler proudly congratulates studio director, Dera Arnold, on her promotion to senior associate and data manager, Sean McGuire, on his promotion to associate. This recognition reflects their commitment to our clients and the La Crosse community.
GREAT RIVERS UNITED WAY: Jen Rombalski of the La Crosse County Health Department received Great Rivers United Way’s 2017 “Advocate” Award on February 7. Rombalski currently sits on the GRUW Board of Directors and was recognized for her advocacy in launching the Great Rivers Hub.
DAKOTA SUPPLY GROUP received Great Rivers United Way’s 2017 “LIVE UNITED” Award on February 7. DSG and its employees were honored for their personal and professional commitment to United Way’s values – Give,
GUNDERSEN: Get your Zzzzzz with Gundersen’s Sleep Challenge! The goal is to improve sleep by aiming for at least 7 hours per night, limiting screen time and creating a sleep friendly environment. Challenge runs June – August. For more information visit gundersenhealth.org/sleep-challenge
LA CROSSE REGIONAL AIRPORT: LSE now has larger aircraft available on American Airlines with a new first class offering. An additional fourth flight starts this June.
MUTUAL OF OMAHA: Eric Guth, managing
Works on May 18, 2018. Join us, for a oneday, highly interactive seminar where you will explore this complicated, powerful and highly manageable system to “get things done” in the workplace. More info: conted@uwlax.edu or www.uwlax.edu/conted/communicationthat-works.
UW-LA CROSSE invites you to the International Death, Grief and Bereavement conference on June 3–6, 2018. Our conference provides a variety of quality presentations on this topic as it relates to caregiving in professional or personal settings. More info: conted@uwlax.
director for Mutual of Omaha in La Crosse,
edu or www.uwlax.edu/conted/dgb.
has earned the Company’s President’s Circle
VITERBO UNIVERSITY: Plan to further your
Honor for 2017. The award is the highest distinction given by Mutual of Omaha to managing directors whose agencies have achieved outstanding sales and service during the past year.
PER MAR SECURITY SERVICES: Per Mar
education at Viterbo University’s Adult and Graduate Open House Wednesday, June 13 in Viterbo’s Reinhart Center from 4-6 p.m. Advisors will be available for bachelor’s completion, master’s and doctorate degrees. For more information visit www.viterbo.edu/
has promoted Justin McAuliffe to District
openhouse.
Operations Manager for its Bemidji, Duluth
VITERBO UNIVERSITY’S Master of Business
and Eau Claire branches. As the District Operations Manager, McAuliffe will be responsible for the productivity and efficiency of installation and service to ensure customer satisfaction.
RADISSON HOTEL LA CROSSE: Radisson La
Administration (MBA) and Master of Arts in Servant Leadership (MASL) programs help people achieve personal and professional goals. For more on Viterbo’s MBA program, visit www.viterbo.edu/mba. For more on Viterbo’s MASL program, visit: www.viterbo.
Crosse grand ballroom recently underwent
edu/masl.
a complete floor to ceiling, $1.2 million
WESTERN TECHNICAL COLLEGE: Hospitality
transformation. Guests will now experience an event in modern luxury with the new enhanced LED lighting features, leading edge audio visual equipment and comfortable banquet chairs.
SHAPIRO STRATEGIES: Stacy Shapiro is celebrating 12 years of service to the Coulee
is the fastest growing industry in the world, and the second largest industry in Wisconsin. Western’s Hospitality Management program will prepare you with the necessary skills to supervise staff and manage operations in hospitality-oriented organizations. Learn more at www.westerntc.edu.
Region. Her services include Purposeful (strategic) Planning©, Board/Staff Retreats, and Leadership/Communication training for all levels of your organization. Contact Stacy at stacy@shapirostrategies.com to cultivate a positive work culture! 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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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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PLATINUM SPONSORS
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS! 1ST BUSINESS SOLUTIONS, INC.
GOLD SPONSORS
COMMUNITY AGENCY, INC.
Onalaska, WI 54650
1815 Ward Avenue
608.796.2222
La Crosse, WI 54601
Terri Teska
608.781.5744
Business Solutions
Denis Tucker
1ST COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION -
Cultural and Community Agency
WEST SALEM 1410 Hwy 16 West Salem, WI 54669 608.786.2420 Ross Hubbard Financial Institution AUTHENTICOM, INC. 400 Main Street, Suite 300 La Crosse, WI 54601 608.796.1167 Katie Wiersgalla Data Management COULEE REGION MOVING SERVICES
SILVER SPONSORS BMO HARRIS BANK
HMOOB CULTURAL &
1021 2nd Ave SW
432 Division St
OCCUPATIONAL CHAPLAINS OF AMERICA 3234 29th Court South La Crosse, WI 54601 715.577.9271 Neal Bennett Business Outreach ONE OF A KIND CORPORATE Event Planning West Mark Street Winona, MN 55987 507.312.9166 Nicole Schossow Event Planning
La Crosse, WI 54601
RIVERPLACE APARTMENTS (STUARTCO)
608.881.6683
1 RiverPlace Drive
Colin Luz
La Crosse, WI 54601
DAHL AUTOMOTIVE
Moving Services
608.782.0202
DBS GROUP
DNA VINTNERS
HAWKINS ASH CPAS ISG MARKET & JOHNSON STATE BANK FINANCIAL THREE-SIXTY REAL ESTATE SOLUTIONS VERVE, A CREDIT UNION VITERBO UNIVERSITY WELLS FARGO
Jen Peickert
1229 Caledonia Street
Property Management
La Crosse, WI 54601
WISCONSIN VETERANS
608.498.0582
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Diana Hobson
5027 West North Avenue
Winery
Milwaukee, WI 53208
ESG - ENTERPRISE SYSTEMS GROUP
920.288.2646
2305 Kelbe Drive
Saul Newton
Suite 202
Chamber of Commerce
Little Chute, WI 54140
WAREHOUSE ALLIANCE INC.
608.709.4516
328 Pearl Street
Mike Booth
La Crosse, WI 54601
Technology
608.386.3404
FANNIN COUNSELING & ART THERAPY
Stephen Harm
129 6th St S
Music/Entertainment
La Crosse, WI 54601 608.480.1676 Melissa Fannin Counseling