SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2017
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: Impact: Foxconn and the Airport Sometimes, I will admit, I’m in awe being your voice, the voice of La Crosse Businesses. Thursday, August 3 was one of those days in Madison. Eight heads of state departments sat in a row answering questions from the Assembly Committee on Jobs and the Economy. The topic – Foxconn. The secretaries were followed by the heads of UW System and UW-Milwaukee and UW-Parkside. Heads of the technical college system and their southeast locals were followed by mayors, county executives and energy companies in southeast Wisconsin. I was equipped with this themed message, “Foxconn is good for La Crosse.” In a quick, 24-hour period, 109 of our business leaders responded promptly to the question, “Do you support the state providing the [$3 billion] incentive package to bring Foxconn to Wisconsin?” The results: Two of every three (68%) were moderately to strongly in favor Of these, 10% want to see more information to know for sure 9% replied “I don’t know” 20% said “no.” What was clear was that many businesses in La Crosse believe they will feel the ripple effect of Foxconn despite its Racine or Kenosha location. Our commercial contractors and steel manufacturers communicated plans to monitor the bid process for construction. At a minimum, these companies will perform the work which the winning bidders cannot fulfill. In addition, Foxconn allows career movement opportunities that in our area would have otherwise been lost to Minneapolis or other cities. As I stated, what’s good for Wisconsin is good for La Crosse. What’s next? Foxconn needs vendors. The belief is that some of the significant suppliers to this LCD display manufacturer will need to be located nearby creating another wave of economic impact. Our Chamber is aware of a system being developed to get your businesses into with Foxconn’s developing vendor database.
LSE Leaders: A Detroit Flight is Possible Our La Crosse airport needs a small push for it to become an even more thriving asset for our community. To help this happen, Chamber board members Joe Kruse (Mayo Clinic) and Bruce Friell (Gundersen Health System) are leading the task-force. When looked at nationally, challenges to the industry are daunting - pilot shortages coupled with regulations requiring they fly less are the perfect storm for higher prices and fewer flights. Locally however, we’re very close to getting a new flight to Detroit if we can just get 1-2 more people on each of the seven planes a day. That’s it. Fourteen more travelers per day can tip us to one airline adding one more flight out of La Crosse. It is very possible. Currently three out of every four (75%) people flying are driving directly to Minneapolis. It was two out of every three (50%) in 2003. Our next steps include talking to companies that have travel/ flight budgets of $10,000+ to identify how we capture more flights originating out of La Crosse. If you’d like to be part of the conversation, let me know: vicki@ lacrossechamber.com
Vicki Markussen Executive Director
Cover Story: Altra Federal Credit Union... Page 4 LEADERSHIP OFFERINGS............................................................................................. 3 HOW TO MAXIMIZE YOUR MEMBERSHIP................................................................ 5 YOUNG PROFESSIONALS HOUSING CONVERSATION.........................................6 HOST A GROUNDBREAKING/RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY............................. 7 ROCKSTARS...................................................................................................................... 7
Table of Contents
REACH PEOPLE MOVING TO LA CROSSE.................................................................8 SAVE THE DATE: OCTOBERFEST IN THE CAPITOL................................................8 CHAMBER EVENTS RECAP...........................................................................................9 UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS................................................................................. 10 MAYORS RESPOND TO YP VISIONING...................................................................... 11 UPCOMING SIGNATURE EVENTS.............................................................................. 12 SAVE THE DATE: WI TAXPAYER ALLIANCE........................................................... 13 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 RANDY FISCHER, FINANCE DIRECTOR 608-784-4880 ext. 3 randy@lacrossechamber.com. JAMI REDENBAUGH, RECEPTIONIST 608-784-4880 jami@lacrossechamber.com
Magazine Layout by Jacob Klatte jmklattedesign@gmail.com
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Leadership Offerings Leadership training is critical to talent attraction and workforce
La Crosse Area
Leadership Program
retention and one of the largest issues facing our member businesses. We’re committed to offering you high quality leadership programs so you can invest in your talent and grow your leadership. Seats for each program are limited and registration deadlines are approaching quickly. Register online at lacrossechamber.com/learn COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Offered in partnership with Viterbo University. Begins Tuesday, October 17 Format: Eight monthly sessions, held from 7:45 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Tuesdays. Sessions are held at the La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce building or at another location throughout the community. Facilitator: Tom Thibodeau Price: $825 ($675 for La Crosse Area Chamber Members) SERVANT LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Offered in partnership with Viterbo University. Begins Thursday, September 21 Format: Four half-day sessions, running from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., offered on Thursdays in the fall and in the spring. All sessions are held at the La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce. Facilitator: Tom Thibodeau Price: $899 ($599 for La Crosse Area Chamber Members) DALE CARNEGIE TRAINING PROGRAM
WHAT OUR MEMBERS SAY COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP
This is a great investment to one’s professional growth and development. The program provides exposure to local key leaders and their influences over social, economical and environmental issues within the community we call home. The education received through the program is invaluable and simply can’t be substituted. - Joe Moua, Business Banker, Bremer Bank SERVANT LEADERSHIP
Entry level ownership would achieve satisfying results from attending this class. More than a class, it’s an opportunity to share life’s experiences as individuals in the community. - Joe Skemp, Safety Director/Estimator, Modern Crane Service, Inc. DALE CARNEGIE TRAINING
Compared to other courses/training, Dale Carnegie proves to be the best tool for communication, self-motivation, confidence and leadership. Participating individuals have grown personally and
Begins Wednesday, September 13
professionally, while interaction with employees and customers have
Format: Eight weekly sessions, running Wednesday evenings from 6:00
advanced. I am confident that any company would benefit from this
p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Facilitator: Terry Siebert
quality training. - Jeff Wieser, President, Wieser Brothers General Contractor, Inc.
Price: Will be provided directly by facilitator.
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Altra Federal Credit Union IT’S ALWAYS ABOUT THE MEMBER EXPERIENCE
YOUR CREDIT UNION IN YOUR HAND
Altra Federal Credit Union has always had an unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional member experience. Over the past 85 years, how and where that member experience is delivered has changed dramatically and the future holds even more exciting changes..
Smart devices opened the door to truly innovative services and will continue to lead the way in new services. Altra’s mobile banking app currently offers:
BRINGING THE CREDIT UNION TO YOU Today, Altra’s member experience goal is all about meeting members where they are and breaking down barriers. To do that, Altra’s Virtual Strategies team meets regularly to explore new technology options, and assess whether they add value while maintaining data security. The ultimate goal is to provide the same services and same experience mobile, online and in person. A PIONEER IN THE DIGITAL ARENA Altra was one of the first credit unions in the country to offer online banking, with the introduction of its first system in the 1990s. Looking back at that original system that included batch processing of transactions, it’s amazing how far technology has come. Multiple upgrades over the years have evolved into a traditional online banking site for the desktop/laptop user, and a feature driven mobile app for the smart device user.
• • • • • •
Quick Access - biometric fingerprint log-in Altra Remote Deposit – deposit checks using your device’s camera Altra Pay – free, instant person-to-person payments ATM Finder – find one of the Co-op Network’s 30,000 surcharge free ATMs Cashback offers – Merchant offers based on where you shop Apply for a loan – quick and easy way to apply for loans with Altra
MOVING INTO THE FUTURE What’s on the horizon for Altra? The Virtual Strategies Team is exploring voice activated banking, smart messaging, and other innovative technologies for personal and business accounts. Whatever the delivery channel, whatever the technology, Altra’s services are always supported by trained and dedicated staff members to ensure the best possible member experience – in person, on the phone, or online.
Members can open and fund an account online, pay bills, transfer money to other Altra members, apply for a loan or mortgage, and using secure DocuSign technology – even sign loan papers anywhere. Mary Isaacs, Altra’s CFO, reports, “With 96,000 members in all 50 states, we knew online services would be popular with national members, but we were pleasantly surprised at how many members who live down the street from an Altra branch say online services are a better fit for their busy lives.” That trend was echoed in a recent Financial Brand article which showed 53% of financial consumers prefer to do routine transactions electronically, while only 44% now prefer a traditional teller. Technology has made its way into Altra branches, too, with SAM, Altra’s Smart ATM. SAMs in drive-ups and lobbies allow members to skip waiting in line and deposit checks and cash, transfer funds, and get cash.
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HOW TO MaXimize YOUR MEMBERSHIP
STEVE BISSEN – BUSINESS OUTREACH DIRECTOR
Did you know everyone in your organization is a member of the La
PLAN FOR THE BUSINESS EXPO
Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce? When an organization joins the
By now you should have our annual Business Expo marked on your
Chamber, all employees become active members and can utilize
calendar: Thursday, October 26 at the La Crosse Center.
membership benefits.
It’s is the largest business to business networking event in Western
To make the most of your membership, you’ll want to find the right fit for each of your employees and ensure they’re receiving communication they actually care about! We have a variety of targeted communication lists to meet your needs, from marketing to advocacy to education and leadership opportunities. Each employee can see his or her chosen communication lists after logging into the Member Information Center (MIC). Need help setting this up? Email info@lacrossechamber.com or give us a call. After you get logged into the MIC, you can select any additional communication lists that you’re interested in, remove those you’re not, add a brief professional bio and link to your social network profiles. If you’re the primary contact within our system, make sure you log in occasionally to your company profile and add new hires. The more robust, accurate and personalized your member profile is, the more likely you are to capitalize on important opportunities for gaining new customers or partners.
Wisconsin – you should be there. Are you planning to be an exhibitor this year? Make sure you have a plan to make your booth fun, informative and experiential. Activities or games are an easy way to break the ice with attendees and get them interested and involved in your company. Once that happens, who knows where it will lead - new connections, partnerships or clients. Need some engaging, novel booth ideas or games? Call me and we can brainstorm ideas. As an attendee, you’ll also need a plan. Decide whether there is a service, industry or company you’d love to meet and learn about, check the map and plan to visit the booth with questions ready. Can’t find the person you are looking to meet? Find one of the Chamber Ambassadors or staff and we will help you make the connection. That’s what we are all about – helping you to connect, and your business to thrive!
26th Annual
CONNECTED + INVESTED As ISG’s 40+ years of expertise continues to evolve, so does the firm’s steadfast roots in the communities we serve. ISG’s multi-disciplinary team of 250+ professionals and employee owners anchor the firm to the streets and
Saturday, October 14, 2017 Great chili. Great cause.
neighborhoods where we live, work, and play. Powered by our clients, each of ISG’s 8 offices, including La Crosse, embody a spirit of innovation with solutions that pave the way for meaningful and functional designs. www.is-grp.com
statebankfinancial.com | 608.784.4600
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ARCHITECTURE + ENGINEERING + ENVIRONMENTAL + PLANNING
YOUNG PROFESSIONAL HOUSING NEED LEADS TO LARGER CONVERSATION When our Young Professionals (YPs) group identified finding quality, affordable rental housing as difficult, it began a series of conversations that will now unite diverse stakeholder groups working in local housing to identify long-term solutions.
PROBLEM 1: Student Housing is not Young Professional Housing
commuting is the number one concern in transportation corridor
“Our young professionals want a level of housing that our market
conversations,” said Markussen, “It creates deeper problems. People
did not speculate and hence doesn’t have availability at the pace
thinking millennials do not want cars is not a reality for most in La
millennials need,” said Vicki Markussen, executive director of the
Crosse County.”
Chamber. Markussen said La Crosse County’s rental housing market reacts to demand because it’s highly risky building properties on the speculation they will buy or rent at the price point the project supports. The result is not enough housing that matches the turnkey properties our young professionals are seeking.
PROBLEM 3: Not in My Back Yard (NIMBY) Many young professionals are choosing lifestyle before home ownership. They are renting longer. Meanwhile many neighborhoods fear the increase of rentals in their neighborhoods out of an understandable fear of the unknown tenant. But YPs have the same
The Chamber executive director says the La Crosse student housing
standards as homeowners - well maintained properties in quality
market continues to dictates the La Crosse downtown market, where
neighborhoods.
young professionals look to first if working in La Crosse. They quickly look further out because our predominantly older student housing does not align with the turnkey properties young professionals are seeking.
“The Chamber is sending letters to the neighborhood groups in La Crosse and planning departments to find opportunities for young professional rental housing in their neighborhoods,” Markussen said. “If neighborhoods want to attract young professionals and the next
“When they do find an ideal location, our YPs say the maintenance of the surrounding homes or neighborhood is concerning,” Markussen said. Because of pent-up demand, when suitable properties become available, developers told Markussen they see a mix of retirees, college students also seeking newer accommodations, and young professionals.
generation, they have to include rentals in the picture.” PROBLEM 4: Demolition Costs Gap When the Chamber sold its land at 7th and La Crosse Street to a housing developer, the price was the same as when the Chamber bought the space with three homes on it ten years ago. The organization took a $100,000 loss on the demolition cost. Developers
PROBLEM 2: Build It and They Will Come
say many rental projects are hindered by an inability to absorb in
Over a series of meetings, the La Crosse Area Chamber heard that
rental pricing what is estimated as a $60,000 per lot demolition cost.
due to their availability of land, Onalaska and Holmen have built the housing stock YPs are choosing. Realtors reported that once someone establishes themselves in those communities, they then do not look to buy in La Crosse.
PROBLEM 5: Turnkey in a Tight Housing Marketing La Crosse County has one of the tightest housing markets in Wisconsin - i.e. available homes to purchase are low. Young professionals, who also want turnkey homes, are finding fixer-uppers for sale. If people can’t buy, they can’t move out of rentals, Markussen
Business Banking
that’s simply less work
said. It is an intertwined conversation. What’s Next The Chamber understands the demand side of this important conversation. Other groups understand home ownership, rentals and the speculative home market. The Chamber will hold a meeting to unite these groups with a desired outcome of how we better meet the full spectrum of home ownership for this young professionals segment of the market. Stay tuned.
Onalska • 608-782-6711 Bremer.com Member FDIC
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Why Host a Ribbon Cutting or Ground Breaking Ceremony? ANNOUNCE YOUR GRAND OPENING
PROMOTE A NAME CHANGE
The most common reason for hosting a ribbon cutting is the mark
If you’ve recently changed your company name, consider using it as
the grand opening of your business location. We celebrate with you
an opportunity to invite members of the business community or the
and promote the event on our social media channels and here, in
general public to meet your leadership, tour your location and hear
the Connection magazine, ensuring your location gets noticed by La
about the impact you’re making on the La Crosse Area.
Crosse Area businesses, their partners and their customers.
Reach out to us at least 2 weeks prior to your proposed date to
Are you breaking ground for an expansion or remodel? Let us add
ensure time to get you on our calendars and notify our team, Board
our gold shovels to your celebration and help you promote the event
of Directors and Ambassador volunteers. Send your information and
with social media posts and word of mouth outreach.
proposed date to info@lacrossechamber.com
Rock Stars
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READY TO BOOK?
CELEBRATE AN EXPANSION OR REMODEL
Connect. Grow. Advocate. is the bedrock of the Chamber. Here we Spotlight some people who help us continue to build on that foundation.
Members of the Golf Outing Planning Committee have worked tirelessly to improve this year’s event and it shows - this year’s Outing sold out of golfer spots quicker than all previous years! From word of mouth promotions, strategies for improving golf experience and significant efforts to secure sponsors and Silent Auction donors, this group has contributed countless hours to this event. Their energy and momentum remain high with conversations around the 2018 Golf Outing already happening as well as a plan to meet this fall to identify next steps. Help us thank the following members: Mark Dahl (DAIRYLAND POWER COOPERATIVE), Rolly Dyck (SCHILLING SUPPLY
COMPANY), Rick Eickmeier (ANYTIME FITNESS), Nathan Franklin (DAIRYLAND POWER COOPERATIVE), Peter Grabow (MAYO CLINIC HEALTH SYSTEM FOUNDATION), Rob Hollnagel Jr (AGROPUR INGREDIENTS), Marty Holub (KNIGHT BARRY TITLE), Ed Jaekel (JRM CPAS, LLC), Tim Kotnour (STATE BANK FINANCIAL), Joe Kruse (MAYO CLINIC HEALTH SYSTEM), Debbie Lee (COUNTRY FINANCIAL), Joe Moua (BREMER BANK), Mike Nickel (ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION), Randy Pretasky (US BANK), Mark Schneider (SCHNEIDER HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING), Dan Scwaab (ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION), Mark Tierney (ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION) and Va You Yang (VERVE, A CREDIT UNION).
Reach People Relocating to La Crosse The Chamber’s revision from a relocation packet to a magazine provides you with opportunities to reach a very select audience. Our nearly daily requests at the Chamber for relocation information, coupled with a growing list of top employers and recruitment businesses agreeing to distribute, creates the perfect mixture for success. HOW YOU CAN HELP: 1.
Advertise: if you recruit talent, you will want to show your company’s presence in the community. If you want to get connected to people before they have moved here, this is your best source for making an impression. HURRY: we are nearly at deadline!
2.
Distribute: if you frequently come into contact with people deciding to relocate, let us know how many copies you’d like to receive.
More information available at lacrossechamber.com/relocate or relocate@ lacrossechamber.com
save the date
Oktoberfest in the Capitol
Join us to advocate for our community Wednesday October 11, 2017 More details to follow 8
What's Happening at the Chamber The Forum JUNE: MADISON UPDATE Sen. Jennifer Shilling hoped the budget would be wrapped up in October, with transportation funding being a major sticking point. She expressed concern about the UW system cuts being so deep and long, job growth being stagnant, and wages dropping. Rep. Steve Doyle spoke to the ban on the sale of homemade baked goods. There is concern surrounding the work to place a hold on all bills costing $10 million or more and who evaluates it. JULY: LOCAL BUDGET CHALLENGES Budget Talks: La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat cited low property values, providing regional services without fees covering those services, and lack of local funding alternatives as components creating a challenging budget. Mike Hesse with the Town of Farmington shared the start of their first major road investment since 1976 with 2.2 miles costing them $900,000. The road was constructed in 1967 and had one bar and one house. Now it has 27 homes. Growth has been stagnant. Their population is where they were 100 years ago. Other projects include replacing a pumper and re-purposing their elementary school due to the $27.4 million referendum passing for Melrose-Mindoro on the first vote.Â
Wisconsin Department of Transportation Wisconsin Department of Transportation Secretary David Ross addressed La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce businesses in mid-July, weighing in on proposed statewide transportation reforms. Ross cautioned that the state budget stalemate could lead to delays in the progress and completion of current transportation projects.
Business After Hours JULY 13 AT DBS GROUP The heatwave broke for this midsummer connection event at DBS Group in Onalaska. Attendees enjoyed lawn games, tours of the DBS Group space and beverages from Pearl Street Brewery.
AUGUST 10 AT COLGAN AIR SERVICES & LA CROSSE REGIONAL AIRPORT Held in an airport hangar at Colgan Air Services, this event presented a unique atmosphere to build business relationships while enjoying live music, great food and a side of La Crosse Regional Airport that is not often witnessed.
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Upcoming Events September 14 at Co-op Credit Union Co-op Credit Union invites you to attend Business After Hours at its Onalaska office. Come and see CCU’s new location at 100 French Road and enjoy complimentary tailgate food, drink with some fun activities while learning more about CCU. Co-op Credit Union has been serving members for more than 75 years and opened the Onalaska location in 2016 to expand its competitive products and exceptional service in the Onalaska and La Crosse area. A full-service financial cooperative, CCU assists individuals and business members with checking, savings and lending needs at competitive rates.
October 12 at La Crosse Sign Company Join La Crosse Sign Group for Business After Hours. Enjoy complimentary drinks and appetizers while touring our recently expanded facility; you’ll be surprised at all we do! La Crosse Sign Group is celebrating its 100th year in business, serving the Tri-State area and shipping signs nationwide. La Crosse Sign collaborates with a wide range of businesses and organizations to help them tell their story and Make a Statement with their signage.
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Mayors Respond to YP Visioning In July, the Young Professionals of the Coulee Region group of the La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the municipal leadership of La Crosse, Onalaska and Holmen. The mayors provided a response to the YPCR group’s 2016 YP Visioning Session, speaking to what their respective communities are doing to address some of the changes Young Professionals identified as necessary to move the community from good to great. MAYOR TIM KABAT, CITY OF LA CROSSE Neighborhood Revitalization - Several challenges face the city in this area impacted by the age of housing stock, floodplain issues that cause reinvestment issues and the need for crime reduction and child and protective services. The city has found a strong solution in neighborhood officers and the development of several local affordable housing units, one of which will have a set number of units marked for individuals transitioning out of homelessness in the area. Outdoor Recreation - City’s goal is to extend the current multi-use path connecting Onalaska below the interstate to the bike path further south along the river past Black River Beach. Economic Development & Entrepreneurship - Kabat reemphasized the YP belief that support to small, locally-owned businesses is what sets the region apart. In this area, he mentioned funding provided for Coulee Co-Starters and the value of the Coulee Region Business Center as a key node for workforce and economic development. An exciting development for 2018 will be significant City funding dedicated to support women- and minority-owned businesses in La Crosse. Housing - Strengths include affordability, quality, location and variety of housing types Access to downtown La Crosse from the river, a key finding of the YP Visioning Session, is in the planning stages but Kabat says to look forward to recommendations and plans by mid-2018. MAYOR JOE CHILSEN, CITY OF ONALASKA Chilsen shared the exciting work being done on the waterfront in Onalaska through the park and plaza being created by Dave & Barb Skogen who have invested $3 million into the project. Access to the River - Great River Landing is hitting phase two and Chilsen wants to capitalize on momentum to keep this project moving forward. Pathways are envisioned in Whittenburg Marsh that run all the way to Nutbush. The city also wants to improve safety and access to the spillway after noticing local kids crawling under stationary trains to get there. Housing - Housing stock is in short supply in Onalaska, but Chilsen assured the group that they are hoping to purchase more land. He also notes that some commercial and housing stock still remains but with the popularity of the area, may not last for long. Collaboration - Chilsen emphasized collaboration across the county noting that “High tide raises all boats. We’re all in this together” and “Collaboration is a must. It’s a necessity.” Visionary Teams - Mayor Chilsen closed by sharing the city’s new Three Vision team to gather vital community feedback through focus groups: • •
Back in the Days/Senior Coalition Teeners (high school students and teen members)
•
YoPros (Young Professionals).
Chilsen remarked on the promising nature of engaged Young Professional luncheon attendees, “I think this type of group is just what we need because I have so few young people that want to serve on city committees.” He challenged them to get involved with designing the future of their city today and expressed hope that members of the group would step up to join the visionary team, and says Onalaska is willing to expand this framework to other communities. Chilsen left the group with these inspiring words by Winston Churchill: “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” VILLAGE PRESIDENT NANCY PROCTOR, VILLAGE OF HOLMEN Village President Proctor shared the sentiment that Holmen is the place to be, as evidenced by its ample available land, new TIF district and highprofile development projects. Housing - Apartments and single family units in a wide price range are available. Business Development - Holmen is looking to attract businesses to utilize the open land available to them, Proctor says. Whether that development is a local expansion or a new startup, Holmen has the space and support for them to succeed. Current projects include: • •
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New Festival Foods store. Halfway through construction on this store, with its size based on the parking available. New Gundersen clinic
• • •
Shops on Hale will bring in six new, varied businesses Kwik Trip stores Five housing developments currently in process
Upcoming SIGNATURE Events OKTOBERFEST IN THE CAPITOL | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2017
HONOR STUDENT BANQUET | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2018
This is your chance to share the
Show greater La Crosse that your
important contributions your
business cares about the academic
business is making and help
success, hard work and future of the
shape the legislative agenda
area’s youth at this well-loved event,
for our region. We’ll head to the
celebrating the top five-percent of
Wisconsin Capitol Building for high-quality legislative visits that reintroduce our state’s elected
graduating high school seniors from local high schools and their parents to a banquet in their honor.
officials to the value of the La Crosse Area business community and the significance of our area for state and regional economic success. 150TH ANNUAL CELEBRATION | MONDAY, MARCH 5, 2018 Celebrate 150 years of La Crosse history and economic progress through the eyes of its dynamic business community.
Registration is now open for the 2017 Business Expo THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26 LA CROSSE CENTER, SOUTH HALLS A & B Special Chamber member pricing on exhibitor booths, breakfast and luncheon seats.
YOUR AD HERE ($275 for 1/4 page)
Other sizes and prices available. Visit www.lacrossechamber.com to purchase your ad!
REGISTER ONLINE at www.lacrossechamber.com/business-expo 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 to hear from our featured businesses.
Featured luncheon speaker: Dakota Supply Group (DSG, formerly W.A. Roosevelt Co.) Small Business Breakfast speaker: Trust Point
Gensler is
MOVING to
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Designers
| Construction Managers | Builders
The Coulee Region’s Commercial & Industrial Design/Build Leader Since 1970
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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/
Join Us! PRAT ALTERNATIVES: FINDING LONGTERM, STATE TRANSPORTATION FUNDING SOLUTIONS
JOIN US IN UPDATING OUR ADVOCACY VOICE ON TRANSPORTATION Presented By: Todd Berry, Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance Wednesday, September 18, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce Lyle & Norma Anderson Education Center | 601 7th St N | La Crosse
The La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce remains opposed to the Premier Resort Area Tax (PRAT) as a funding mechanism for transportation. Please join us for lunch as we listen to the state’s leading non-partisan, research organization – the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance – discuss the state’s transportation dilemma, share funding option pros and cons, and how Wisconsin compares to other states for transportation funding. You’ll hear about gas tax, wheel tax and more.
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MEMBERS ONLY. Register online: www.lacrossechamber.com
Connecting Members to Members ALLERGY ASSOCIATES OF LA CROSSE
HAWKINS ASH CPAS has recently
UW-LA CROSSE SMALL BUSINESS
welcomes Giana Nicoara MD to their
promoted Robin Earleywine, CPA, to senior
DEVELOPMENT CENTER’S Terri Urbanek is
practice. Dr. Nicoara completed her allergy
associate, Jennifer Haas, CPA, to manager
receiving recognition for the proactive and
fellowship at the University of South Florida.
of the firm’s housing division, and Matt
valuable support she provides to regional
She provides allergy care to pediatric and
Savaske to senior associate. Learn more
businesses. The consultant and outreach
adult patients. For appointments, contact
about a career at hawkinsashcpas.com/
specialist received the 2017 SBDC State Star
608-782-2027.
careers.
Award from the Wisconsin Small Business
Joel Dettwiler of CHARTERPOINT
HAWKINS ASH CPAS will host a free
Development Center.
WEALTH STRATEGIES recently completed
training event to help nonprofit
Rick Trietley, a retired U.S. Army Officer, has
advanced training in special needs financial
organizations comply with new changes to
been named Vice President for Student
planning. This specialized training adds
the presentation of financial statements
Affairs at VITERBO UNIVERSITY. Trietley
to the comprehensive financial planning
and disclosures. The event will take place
most recently worked as the VPSA at St.
services for individuals and businesses in
on Thursday, Nov. 9 at 11:30 a.m. at Hawkins
Bonaventure University in New York. He
the Coulee Region offered by Charterpoint
Ash CPAs. Register at hawkinsashcpas.com/
began his duties at Viterbo July 10.
Wealth Strategies.
nonprofit-workshop/
EO JOHNSON BUSINESS TECHNOLOGIES’ LOCKNET® MANAGED IT SERVICES ranks among the world’s most progressive 501 Managed Service Providers (MSPs) according to MSPmentor’s 10th-annual MSP 501 Worldwide Company Rankings. The list is based on metrics including recurring revenue, growth, and other factors. THE FRANCISCAN SPIRITUALITY CENTER will offer a new 2017-18 Listening Series. The first weekend retreat will be “Listening: A Path to Transformation” with Janet Mallak, SSND, on Sept. 22-23, to be followed by “Deepening Engagement: Essential Habits for Listening” with Diane Millis on Feb. 2-3 and “Compassionate Communication: The Language of the Heart,” with Barb Kruse on April 13-14. Details at www.FSCenter.org or 608-791-5295. HANSON & ASSOCIATES welcomes Kasey Vergin as an Associate Financial Advisor. Kasey brings over 10 years of financial services experience along with a track record of providing excellent client service. To learn more about Kasey and the team, visit hansonprivatewealth.com.
VITERBO UNIVERSITY’S MBA and Master of
MODERN CRANE SERVICE, INC. is proud to
Arts in Servant Leadership (MASL) programs
announce a change in ownership to Anna
now offer an emphasis in nonprofit
Prinsen, its new President. Modern Crane
leadership. The programs include a network
Service, Inc. specializes in crane rental,
of professionals with diverse business
machinery moving/millwrights, pre-stress/
and leadership backgrounds. Contact
steel erection and equipment rental.
Dale Krageschmidt at 608-796-3358 or
Congratulations to Steve and Judi Swanson
dakrageschmidt@viterbo.edu.
on their upcoming retirement! MODERN
Employee Engagement – Breakfast Forum,
CRANE SERVICE, INC. would like to thank
September 12, 2017 7:30 Stoney Creek - In
Steve and Judi for their many years of hard
celebration of Workforce Development
work and dedication to the company.
Month, WORKFORCE CONNECTIONS is
Shane Rockweiler, representative for
hosting a forum with Karen Long, Organic
MUTUAL OF OMAHA in LaCrosse, has
Valley, Matt Klug, Culvers Franchising
earned the Upper Midwest Division Office
System, and Mike Skroch, Inland Label.
Rookie Agent of the Month for June. Mutual
These leaders will discuss how employee
of Omaha is a full-service, multi-line
engagement matters related to retention,
organization providing insurance and
recruitment, and success. Register at http://
financial services products for individuals,
bit.ly/2vAPNlk
businesses and groups throughout the tristate area. UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-LA CROSSE invites you to register now for UW-La Crosse ACT® Prep Courses which will be held October 14–November 18, 2017 or register for an online option available anytime. More info: conted@uwlax.edu or www.uwlax.edu/conted/test-prep/act.
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.
14
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
Welcome New Members!
Silver Sponsors
CASTLE LA CROSSE LLC
OLIVE GARDEN
1419 Cass St
9413 State Road 16
La Crosse, WI 54601
Onalaska, WI 54650
844.726.5808
608.783.0090
CastleLaCrossebnb.com
olivegarden.com/locations/wi/onalaska/ onalaska-valley-view-mall/1492
Bruce Banes Bed-and-Breakfast Inns COOPERATIVE EDUCATIONAL SERVICES AGENCY (CESA) #4
Jeff Wyant Restaurants PINE VIEW RECREATION AREA
923 East Garland Street
1668 South J St - Off Hwy 21
West Salem, WI 54669-1331
Fort McCoy, WI 54656
608.786.4804
608.388.3517
cesa4.k12.wi.us
mccoy.armymwr.com/categories/outdoorrecreation
Cheryl Gullicksrud Educational Programs & Services DEBAUCHE TRUCK & DIESEL, INC. 535 Fanta Reed Place La Crosse, WI 54603 608.781.8840 debauchetruck.com Al De Bauche Truck, Utility, Trailer, & RV DUNKIN DONUTS 1422 Losey Blvd S La Crosse, Wi 54601 608.881.9001 dunkindonuts.com Marcus Reed-Thorsen Coffee Houses
Jeff Uhlig Campgrounds STATE FARM INSURANCE - KURT PFAFF 1434 Main Street Onalaska, WI 54650 608.783.1130 kurtpfaffinsurance.com Kurt Pfaff Insurance Carriers and Related Activities STRESSFREE BOOKKEEPING LLC West Salem, WI 54669 608.786.0575 stressfreebookkeepingllc.com Jill Myhre Accounting, Tax Preparation, Bookkeeping, and Payroll Services
ENVIRONMENTS
TURNKEY ASSOCIATES LC
311 Financial Way
3015 Greyhound Drive
Suite 300
Waterloo, IA 50701
Wausau, WI 54401
319.232.4242
715.842.2222
tkadesignbuild.com
sgenvironments.net
Corey Clark
Kelly Kadolph
Construction of Buildings
Office Equipment