March 2011 by New North B2B

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new north b2b MARCH 2011

26 20

32 Features

20 COVER STORY ❘ Manufacturing ❘ Showing signs of resurgent growth in the wake of the recent recession

26 TECHNOLOGY ❘ Up on Apps ❘ Local companies, institutions enhance customer relations through smart phones

32 WORKFORCE ❘ Pipeline Pipe Dream? ❘ CEO survey finds there aren’t sufficient emerging leaders to replace them

Departments 4 From the Publisher 5, 36 Professionally Speaking 6 Since We Last Met 10 Corporate Earnings 12 Build Up Pages 18 Around the Boardroom 19 Pierce Stronglove 25 Guest Commentary 38 Who’s News 45 Business Calendar 44 Advertiser Index 46 Key Statistics

On our cover

The cover image is “Powerhouse Mechanic,” a 1920 photo by world-renowned early 20th century photographer and sociologist Lewis Hine, a native of Oshkosh.

NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 3

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Atrocious claims from teachers move me from sympathy to disdain

Sean Fitzgerald New North B2B Publisher 4 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

When enough is enough

A variety of readers perceive New North B2B as being a bit left of other business publications in the state. B2B has always been supportive of education as a critical gear in the economic development engine. We’ve always supported teachers. And in general, we’ve usually been supportive of organized labor. But it’s really taken a toll on me to watch educators’ unions across the state carrying on for the past few weeks feeling as if they’ve been treated so unfairly. And it’s tough to watch these same teachers groups waste away most of their political capital. The issue surrounding their work conditions isn’t about life or death. It’s not about basic human rights. Your voice has been heard. So get back to work. Hold on to what political dignity you have left and nurture it back to health. There’s another set of partisan elections coming up in less than 20 months. Pounce on the democratic process then. The grumbling coming out of educator camps in mid- to late February has been tough to swallow, almost to the point of characterizing some of it as whining. How extreme did it get? One protesting teacher interviewed from Madison in a national television news broadcast compared the plight of her colleagues to the civil disobedience demonstrated by Egyptians in Cairo earlier in February which ultimately paved the way to longtime President Hosni Mubarek stepping down from power. Really? You’re going to compare genuine human suffering, an utter lack of economic opportunity and absolutely no democratic voice to the changes laid out in Gov. Walker’s budget repair bill. Totally unbelievable. In the Oshkosh school district – and I can only assume in schools around the state – students were encouraged to skip class and sit out in the hallway in protest of Walker’s proposal while teachers took pictures to upload to their Facebook pages and share with colleagues. On a separate front, I was taken by surprise when I heard Rep. John Lewis (DGa.), someone who I regard as a personal hero, admit there were parallels between the plight of educators protesting in Madison and the civil rights movement he and millions others fought so hard to achieve throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Mr. Lewis – with all due respect – I’ve heard you

speak and I’ve heard you tell your personal stories; they sound nothing like those emanating from the cushy frontlines of Wisconsin’s statehouse. Unfortunately for many other public sector unions, the over-the-top antics of the teachers’ groups during the historic protests in February cast a dark shadow over an otherwise favorable perception many in the general public had in regard to unions. More than a century ago, unions built their power and their prestige to make business owners and government regulators listen at a time when workplaces were unsafe and often overwhelmingly unfair. Does that same kind of hostile workplace environment endure today? Hardly. But all too often, certain labor groups have flexed their muscle in times of greed rather than flexing it in a time of dire need. The latter, again, is the proud tradition upon which organized labor is built. While the rest of us pay more toward our monthly health insurance premiums than we make toward monthly car payments – and even more than the monthly home mortgage, in my case – it’s a stinging slap to our faces to hear this is unfair. I know several small business owners out here in northeast Wisconsin who make less than any fulltime public school district educator in the region. They pay all of their own health insurance. They fund all of their retirement. Thousands of employers in the region aren’t particularly excited about the new health care plan Obama and Democrats in power pushed through last year. Those people still showed up for work throughout the brief Congressional debate on the subject. They didn’t disrupt segments of society and they didn’t fleece taxpayers of their money. So have teachers’ unions been flexing their muscle for greed in this instance? I couldn’t help but overhear one teacher – who clearly called in sick to school to head to Madison for the protests – say they “couldn’t believe” they actually had to get a doctor’s excuse if they wanted to get paid for the day they were out. “We’re on a selffunded plan,” this teacher said, “and a trip to the doctor’s office to get an excuse is going to cost money and just drive up our health costs further. It’s going to cost the taxpayers even more money.” This teacher clearly doesn’t get it. And it’s not helping bring the sympathy back. www.newnorthb2b.com

PROFESSIONALLY SPEAKING

The Duty to Preserve Electronic Records by Davis & Kuelthau, s.c.

Tony Renning

920.233.6050

If you have a particular labor/employment law question, please forward your question to Mr. Renning at info@ newnorthb2b.com. If he responds to your email in a future issue, your name and company will be withheld to preserve your privacy.

Reader Question: I understand the rules may have changed as to the duty of an employer to preserve electronic records. What changes were made? Tony Renning: A recent Wisconsin Supreme Court order, effective Jan. 1, 2011, amended some of the rules for the discovery of electronic records. These changes make it clear a party is required to retain electronic records for discovery in subsequent litigation; however, the response to any request to produce electronic records is only as good as the steps taken to properly preserve this information. The duty to preserve electronic records arises when an individual or entity becomes aware litigation may result from a particular event, such as the firing of an employee. The duty is very broad and includes not just the actual records themselves, but all deleted emails, file materials, storage tapes, drafts, calen-

Sean Fitzgerald

Publisher & President

sean@newnorthb2b.com

Carrie Rule

Sales Manager

carrie@newnorthb2b.com

Kate Erbach

Creative Director

kate@newnorthb2b.com

Contributing writers

Michael Bina Lee Marie Reinsch

Chief Financial Officer

Vicky Fitzgerald, CPA

dars, logs and anything else that might become relevant in future litigation. There is an added concern, and expense, associated with the duty to preserve electronic records. Courts have been given the power to require that parties to litigation meet and discuss how to manage the discovery of electronic records, including costs, methods of production and similar issues. Additionally, the court and the parties will need to address the problem of documents that cannot be produced and whether those documents have been intentionally destroyed or carelessly discarded. The rules will permit a court that finds electronic records have not been properly preserved to award attorney fees, costs of production and similar sanctions, including the possibility of an “adverse inference instruction” to the jury. Rather than be involved in a fight over whether the loss of electronic records was permitted by the rule, all electronic

NEW NORTH B2B is published monthly by WINNEBAGO B2B LLC for $20 per year or $3.95 for a single issue. A single complimentary subscription is offered to all members of the Fond du Lac Area Association of Commerce, Green Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, Heart of the Valley Chamber of Commerce, and the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce. Printed by Digicorporation, 120 Lake St., Neenah, WI 54956 POSTMASTER: send address changes to: WINNEBAGO B2B LLC 923 S. Main St., Oshkosh, WI 54902. Bulk-rate postage paid at Oshkosh, WI. Reproduction of any contents of NEW NORTH B2B without express written permission of its publishers is strictly forbidden. The appearance of any advertisement or product information does not constitute endorsement of any product or service by WINNEBAGO B2B LLC. Copyright 2011.

records should be preserved for production in accordance with a detailed “litigation hold” issued to key employees and other related personnel. For advice and counsel as to the rules pertaining to the duty to preserve electronic records, contact Tony Renning at (920) 232-4842 or trenning@dkattorneys.com or any other member of the Davis & Kuelthau Labor and Employment Team. Tony Renning is an attorney in the Oshkosh office of Davis & Kuelthau, s.c. (219 Washington Avenue). Mr. Renning provides counsel to private and public sector employers on a wide variety of labor and employment law matters. This article is intended to provide information only, not legal advice. For advice regarding a particular employment situation, please contact a member of the Davis & Kuelthau, s.c. Labor and Employment Team.

Green Bay

Fox Cities

Oshkosh

Fond du Lac NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 5

SINCE WE LAST MET

Since we last met Since We Last Met is a digest of business related news occurring in the Green Bay, Fox Cities, Oshkosh and Fond du Lac areas in the one month since the previous issue of New North B2B.

January 20 The State of Wisconsin Legislature approved a tax deduction on personal health savings accounts, aligning Wisconsin with 47 other states that grant such a deduction. The deduction is expected to encourage more individuals to use HSAs, which can ultimately allow employers to manage health insurance benefit contributions more efficiently. The legislature also approved a separate measure which would protect businesses and others from lawsuits by limiting punitive damages and by limiting noneconomic damages in medical malpractice cases at nursing homes.

2003 March 10 – Miles Kimball Co. in Oshkosh was acquired by Connecticut-based direct-marketing company Blyth Inc. for $65 million in an all-cash deal. Miles Kimball had been privately held since its founding in 1934.

2004 March 1 – Governor Jim Doyle signed into law a measure providing a tax credit of up to $50,000 to cover expenses of modernizing or expanding a dairy farm. The credit is broad, and applies to improvements of any size, ranging from better fencing to new milking facilities.

2008 March 17 – A Brown County jury determined nine insurance companies will have to pay costs assessed to Appleton Inc. for the cleanup of the PCB contamination of the lower Fox River. Those costs could amount to between $550 million to $730 million. Six other paper mills have been ordered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to present a plan for dredging and capping PCB-contaminants from the lower Fox River.

6 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

January 21 TDS Metrocom was given regulatory authority to expand its footprint into parts of Outagamie and Calumet counties to include Little Chute and Kaukauna. January 25 The Wisconsin Legislature passed the Relocation Tax Credit which exempts businesses from income and franchise taxes for two years for those firms that have not done business in Wisconsin for two years or more. It also passed a separate measure to expand the economic development tax credit program from $75 million to $100 million. January 26 The Outagamie County Board of Supervisors’ Property/Airport committee indicated it would not likely sell the downtown Appleton parking lot it owns for the development of a proposed $18 to $23 million convention center. The committee also stated it would like the Radisson Paper Valley Hotel to commit to managing the new facility before it has any further discussion on the matter. A proposal from Appleton’s ad-hoc convention center coalition suggests the 45,000-sq. ft. facility would be developed and operated by a three-entity partnership consisting of the city, the county and the Radisson. January 26 Developers for the multi-million dollar proposed Dutch Boyz commercial and residential development in downtown Little Chute terminated their agreement with the village board of trustees, citing increased construction costs that placed the project out of financial reach. The village had created a $3.5 million tax incremental finance district to assist in developing the project, though no funds had been dispersed. The development group was asked to reimburse the village just more than $11,000 for engineering expenses it incurred as part of the due diligence for the project. January 27 Both houses of Wisconsin’s Legislature approved a business tax relief measure which will provide businesses a tax deduction for each job they create in the state. January 27 Officials from Bass Pro Shops halted efforts to develop a new store west of Lambeau Field as part of a Green Bay Packers entertainment district because of environmental concerns raised about possible wetland damage. The state legislature had approved a special exemption for the proposal which would have allowed the project to eliminate a state Depart-

www.newnorthb2b.com

SINCE WE LAST MET ment of Natural Resources review prior to the beginning of construction. January 27 The City of Kaukauna Plan Commission approved the sale of land at Commerce Crossing for the construction of a 12,948sq. ft. retail/warehouse development for DirectBuy, a membership-based distributor of home building and furnishing materials. The development at the site of the former greyhound racetrack could begin construction in March and is expected to employ at least 12 people when it opens later in 2011. January 28 The U.S. Department of Commerce reported gross domestic product rose at a 3.2 percent annual rate during the fourth quarter 2010, up from a GDP increase of 2.6 percent during the third quarter. Household spending increased at an annual rate of 4.4 percent, the highest quarterly increase since early 2006, led by a sharp rise in purchases of vehicles. January 31 Green Bay School District Superintendent Greg Maass announced he would step down from his position at the end of the current school year. In a letter Maass sent to district staff, he characterized his resignation as a retirement, though he is pursuing employment opportunities elsewhere. February 1 Officials from Precision Paper Converters in Kaukauna purchased a new facial tissue converting line for its facility and plans to add six to eight new employees to help with its expanded production capabilities. The new converting line will provide enhanced production capabilities such as the ability to convert lotioned tissue products. February 2 A financial forecast presented by Oshkosh Area School District officials projected the district will need to cut a total of $26.6 million in operational costs by the 2015-16 school year to keep its budget balanced. District officials are positioning to craft a borrowing referendum for capital improvements to replace an elementary school and to finance deferred maintenance and new technology in the district. Such capital improvements would likely help reduce operational expenses in future years. February 2 Wing Capital Group of Milwaukee acquired Oshkosh metal fabricator Muza Metal Products, which has been owned by three generations of the Muza family. The company employs 237 people working four shifts on a 24-hour a day, 7-day a week schedule. The new ownership group plans to retain the same management and employee count.

They’re coming... the 6th Annual Corporate Wellness Awards

Alla Tua

SALUTE!

To nominate an employer, go online to our Web site at www.newnorthb2b.com and download our Alla Tua Salute! form. Our panel of business and healthcare experts will select the most innovative employers for this honor.

Awards will be presented in our May 2011 edition in each of four categories: • Small Company (5 to 50 employees) • Mid-sized Company (51 to 250 employees) • Large Company (251 or more employees) • Start Up Wellness Program (2 years or less) Nominations due by April 7, 2011. Send your nomination by mail to New North B2B, P.O. Box 559, Oshkosh, WI 54903 or email: info@newnorthb2b.com.

February 3 The Fond du Lac County Economic Development Corp. opened a business accelerator at its 116 N. Main St. office in Fond du Lac. Called the Center for Enterprise Development, the incubator space offers starts-ups and existing com-

NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 7

SINCE WE LAST MET panies a menu of resources, space to work, and assistance from professional staff. Development of the center was assisted by a $30,000 grant from the Wisconsin Department of Commerce through the Forward Innovation Fund.

in job creation. The regulatory responsibilities previously delegated to the department of commerce will be reassigned to other state agencies better suited to manage the enforcement of such rules.

February 4 The U.S. Department of Labor reported 36,000 jobs were created in January, decreasing the national unemployment rate to 9.0 percent. Employment rose in manufacturing and retail trade but was down in construction, transportation and warehousing.

February 9 City of Fond du Lac officials learned the city successfully challenged the state Department of Natural Resources storm water cleanup criteria and improved its storm water cleanup efforts, which may allow it to shelf several costly capital improvement projects aimed at additional storm water cleanup. The city had planned to borrow $4.2 million in 2012 and again in 2013 for various storm water detention and treatment projects which it may now be able to avoid.

February 8 Agnesian HealthCare in Fond du Lac announced a $25 million project to develop new private rooms at St. Agnes Hospital and upgrades to space in existing patient care areas. The first of the 57 new private rooms will become available in early 2012. The project involves completing three open floors within the South Building, which was constructed in 2005 and 2006. The project will also upgrade bathroom and other space on some floors of the West Wing. February 9 Gov. Scott Walker signed into law legislation which replaces the existing Department of Commerce and most of its economic development assistance functions with the newly established Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation. The new quasi-public agency will be led by recently-appointed Secretary Paul Jadin and will solely assist the private sector

February 15 Primary elections trimmed down hotly-contested, crowded fields for the Green Bay Mayor’s race and for county executive seats in both Brown and Outagamie counties. In the race for Green Bay’s top office, incumbent Mayor Jim Schmitt and Patrick Evans led a field of seven candidates to advance to the general election. In the Brown County race to replace retiring executive Tom Hinz, the field was narrowed from four candidates down to Troy Streckenbach and Andy Nicholson. The Outagamie County race to replace retiring executive Toby Paltzer was trimmed down from six hopeful candidates to Jack Voight and Tom Nelson. The general election is set for April 5. February 16 Buckstaff Co., a more than 150-year-old furniture manufacturer in Oshkosh, is facing possible foreclosure after its lender filed suit seeking more than $1.5 million in unpaid loans. Power utilities had been shut off at the factory, and employees were sent home as production of classroom, library and other institutional furniture ceased. Citizens Bank is using Buckstaff’s equipment, property, inventory and other assets as collateral, and asked the courts to declare the company in default and authorize the sale of the property at a sheriff’s auction. February 18 Both the Kimberly Area and Freedom Area school districts cancelled classes for the day after superintendents learned several faculty members didn’t plan to come to work in protest of Gov. Walker’s proposed budget repair bill. Kimberly Superintendent Bob Mayfield said as many as 180 staff planned to not show up for work that day, and indicated there appeared to be an effort to ensure substitute teachers in the district didn’t fill positions on that day. They were the only two northeast Wisconsin school districts to cancel classes due to socalled teacher “sick outs.” February 21 The Wisconsin Department of Transportation closed the Scheuring Road bridge over U.S. Highway 41 in De Pere for a $14.7 million project to reconstruct the interchange, demolish and replace the bridge, and construct roundabouts at the ramp terminals. The project isn’t expected to be complete until midSeptember, though on- and off-ramps are expected to reopen to traffic in mid-July, but the overpass will remain closed.

8 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

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CORPORATE EARNINGS

Once each quarter, New North B2B runs a digest of quarterly financial reports from local publicly traded companies, or from out-of-the-area parent companies with significant operations in the greater Fox Valley region. January 19 Plexus Corp. 1Q 2011 1Q 2010 Revenue $566 million $430 million ▲ 31% Income $25.0 million $17.8 million ▲ 40% EPS 61 cents 44 cents ▲ 39% Company officials for the Neenah-based contract electronics manufacturer said they expect slightly lower revenues for its second fiscal quarter because projects are wrapping up with two significant clients and delays are expected starting a substantial project for the Coca-Cola Company.

January 20 Associated Banc-Corp. 4Q 2010 4Q 2009 Revenue $189 million $230 million ▼ 18% Income $6.6 million ($180.6million)▲ 104% EPS 4 cents ($1.41) ▲ 102% The Ashwaubenon-based financial institution reported the company’s loan portfolio was down 11 percent compared with the fourth quarter 2009, from $14.1 billion down to $12.6 billion during the recent quarter. On a year-over-year basis, the greatest decline was in the construction segment of Associated’s loan portfolio, which at $553 million was down 60 percent from the fourth quarter 2009. Company officials said they expect to fully repay the U.S. Treasury TARP funds during 2011.

January 25 Kimberly-Clark Corp. 4Q 2010 4Q 2009 Revenue $5.1 billion $5.0 billion ▲ 2% Income $51 million $48 million ▲ 6% EPS $1.20 $1.17 ▲ 3% The maker of consumer paper products with extensive operations in the Fox Cities experienced an increase in sales receipts driven by 4 percent growth in its consumer tissue segment. For the full year, Kimberly-Clark posted revenues of $19.7 billion, up 3 percent from a year ago. Company officials also announced a tissue restructuring plan which will involve the sale or closure of five or six manufacturing facilities around the world by the end of 2012, though they did not speculate on which facilities might be affected.

January 27 Brunswick Corp. 4Q 2010 4Q 2009 Revenue $729 million $657 million ▲ 11% Income ($104.1 million)($124.0 million)▲ 16% EPS ($1.17) ($1.40) ▲ 16% The parent company of Mercury Marine operations in Fond du Lac explained hefty losses for both the fourth quarter 2010 and fourth quarter 2009 included restructuring, exit and impairment charges and charges for special tax items. The company’s marine engine segment, which includes Mercury Marine operations, reported fourth quarter 2010 sales of $353 million were up 17 percent above fourth quarter yearago sales of $302 million.

January 28 Oshkosh Corp. 1Q 2011 1Q 2010 Revenue $1.70 billion $2.43 billion ▼ 30% Income $99.6 million $172.5 million ▼ 42% EPS $1.09 $1.90 ▼ 43% The manufacturer of specialty vehicles saw its defense segment sales decrease 40 percent to $1.11 billion for the first quarter of fiscal 2011 primarily due to the completion of M-ATV production under the initial delivery orders from the U.S. military awarded during fiscal 2009 and 2010. Company officials also indicated Oshkosh Corp. had reduced its debt by $115.1 million during the first quarter of fiscal 2011.

February 1 Bemis Company, Inc. 4Q 2010 4Q 2009 Revenue $1.25 billion $906 million ▲ 38% Income $54.7 million $27.0 million ▲ 103% EPS 49 cents 23 cents ▲ 113% The Neenah-based supplier of flexible packaging and pressure sensitive materials reported record fourth quarter and full fiscal year 2010 revenues and income, primarily attributed to the successful integration of Food Americas, which was acquired on March 1, 2010. Bemis posted 2010 annual receipts of $4.84 billion, a 38 percent increase above full year 2009 revenues of $3.51 billion. Revenue Income EPS

February 7 Humana Inc. 4Q 2010 $8.35 billion $107 million 63 cents

4Q 2009 $7.63 billion $251 million $1.48

▲ 9% ▼ 57% ▼ 57%

10 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

www.newnorthb2b.com

CORPORATE EARNINGS

The health and benefits company with extensive operations in the Green Bay area said the year-over-year decline in earnings per share resulted primarily from placing funds into reserves to strengthen the company’s closed block of long-term care business and the launch of the Humana WalMart-Preferred Rx Plan. Human’s consolidated benefit ratio – its benefit expenses as a percent of premium revenues - increased to 84.4 percent from 81.8 percent during the fourth quarter 2009.

February 16 Dean Foods Company 4Q 2010 4Q 2009 Revenue $3.2 billion $3.0 billion ▲ 7% Income ($21 million) $50.0 million ▼ 142% EPS (11 cents) 27 cents ▼ 141% The dairy-based foods company with extensive operations in Wisconsin, including the Green Bay area, explained its substantial fourth quarter losses were attributable to a $20 million charge associated with a previously disclosed legal matter, a $10.8 million write down of deferred tax assets, and $17 million of restructuring charges.

February 17 School Specialty Inc. 3Q 2011 3Q 2010 Revenue $89.9 million $103.1 billion ▼ 13% Income ($20.2 million)($18.5 million) ▼ 9% EPS ($1.07) (98 cents) ▼ 9% The Greenville-based seller of educational products to schools said sales performance in the seasonally-low third quarter was accented by pressure on school funding and budgets, though it did see a noticeable increase in supplies orders in January through various catalog drops. School Specialty also improved its pricing programs, product offerings, e-commerce systems and sales outreach efforts during the third quarter of its fiscal 2011 year.

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www.mba.uwosh.edu The UW Oshkosh College of Business is accredited by AACSB International, the premier business school accrediting body, a distinction of quality earned by less than 10 percent of business schools worldwide.

NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 11

BUILD UP FOND DU LAC

1&2

C - Indicates a new listing

Build Up Fond du Lac

Keller Inc. of Kaukauna.

1 - 1155 S. Military Road, Fond du Lac, Rolling Meadows Development, renovation of a former nursing home building and an addition to the fourth floor shell for a hotel and conference center. 2 - 246 Trowbridge Dr., Fond du Lac, Grande Cheese, an addition to the loading dock area of the existing facility.

3 - 1739 Fox Ridge Dr., Fond du Lac, City of Fond du Lac, a 60,000-sq. ft. industrial spec building. General contractor is

Build Up Oshkosh 4

- 1002 N. Main St., Oshkosh, Cinder’s Restaurant, a demolition and reconstruction of the existing building. General contractor is James J. Calmes & Sons Construction of Kaukauna.

5 - 800 High Ave., Oshkosh, University of WisconsinOshkosh, a four-story, 191,000-sq. ft. academic building for the College of Business Administration. Project completion expected in fall 2011.

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BUILD UP OSHKOSH

4 5&6 7

C - Indicates a new listing

6 - 600 Block of Algoma Blvd., Oshkosh, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, a five-story, 340-bed student residence hall.

Projects completed since our February issue: • Mercury Marine, 560 W. Pioneer Road, Fond du Lac. • StrataGraph, 3465 Moser St. Oshkosh.

7 - 755 Dempsey Trail, Oshkosh, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, a 17,185-sq. ft. biodigestor energy plant. 8

- 1530 S. Koeller St., Oshkosh, C Party City, an addition to the existing retail space for a new party supply store.

NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 13

BUILD UP FOX CITIES The Build Up department of New North B2B includes a monthly two-page spread identifying significant commercial and industrial construction projects ongoing in the Fox Cities area. The listing does not include multi-tenant residences, interior renovation projects or commercial buildouts.

C - Indicates a new listing

7 - 1506 S. Oneida St., Appleton, St. Elizabeth Hospital,

a 6,370-sq. ft. addition and remodel of the existing cancer center at the hospital.

- N915 Craftsmen Dr., town of Greenville, Fox Valley Spring Co., a 28,000-sq. ft. addition to the existing manufacturing facility. Project completion expected in April.

service shop building. 3300 E. Calumet Ave., Appleton, U.S. Bank, a new retail bank building. Project completion expected in late spring.

2 - 2950 Victory Lane, town of Grand Chute,

8 - 1050 Midway Road, Menasha, Subway, a new commercial/retail building. Project completion expected in spring.

9 - 1815 W. Spencer St., Appleton, Foremost Farms USA, a remodel and renovation of three separate manufacturing facilities on the site. Project completion expected in April.

10 - 1451 McMahon Dr., town of Menasha, SCA Tissue North America, a 7,323-sq. ft. addition to the existing corporate office building. Project completion expected in March.

Bergstrom Infinity, a 18,413-sq. ft. addition to the existing auto dealership and a separate 22,267-sq. ft. auto dealership building. - 2505 E. Evergreen Dr., Appleton, Evergreen Suites, a 9,126-sq. ft. multi-tenant commercial center to include Klusendorf Chiropractic. Project completion expected in March. General contractor is Keller Inc. of Kaukauna.

- 3935 N. Lightning Dr., Appleton, Dermatology Associates, a new medical office building. Project completion expected in March.

- 3000 Spirit Court, Little Chute, owner listed as Rod Van Eperen, a 12,414-sq. ft. motorcycle dealership and

- 1050 Cold Spring Road, town of Menasha, Kimberly-Clark Corp., a 129,150-sq. ft. addition to the existing manufacturing facility to expand production and warehousing for its adult care products. Project completion expected in March.

12 - 150 N. Green Bay Road, Neenah, Bergstrom Chevrolet Buick Cadillac, an 8,680-sq. ft. addition between two existing automotive dealership showrooms and an interior remodel of the current buildings. 13 - 271 River St., Menasha, Exopack, a 7,660-sq. ft. addition to the existing industrial facility. 14 - 130 Second St., Neenah, Theda Clark Memorial Hospital, a 10,897-sq. ft. addition to the first floor of the hospital and remodel of existing patient rooms. 15

- 1815 Marathon Ave., Neenah, Curwood, a twostory, 19,500-sq. ft. addition to the existing manufacturing facility and a separate 3,285-sq. ft. addition for wax storage. Project completion expected in late March. Projects completed since our February issue: • Highland Memorial Park, 3131 N. Richmond St., Appleton. • El Shaddai Christian Fellowship, N158 State Road 55, town of Buchanan. • Roehl Transport, 6915 County Road BB, town of Menasha.

14 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

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BUILD UP FOX CITIES 3&4 5 2

9 7

10 11 13

NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 15

BUILD UP GREEN BAY The Build Up department of New North B2B includes a monthly two-page spread identifying significant commercial and industrial construction projects ongoing in the Green Bay area. The listing does not include multi-tenant residences, interior renovation projects or commercial buildouts. C - Indicates a new listing

1 - 2806 Riverview Dr., Howard, C Dermatology Associates of Wisconsin, a 7,552-sq. ft. dermatology clinic.

9 - 1315 Lime Kiln Road, Green Bay, The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center, a new multi-level community center. Project completion expected in late summer.

2 - 517 Dousman St., Green Bay, Subway Restaurant, a commercial retail building for a sub shop. Project completion expected in March. 3 - 930 Main St., Green Bay, C CVS Pharmacy, a new retail store and pharmacy. 4 - 1831 Main St., Green Bay, Planet Fitness, a 20,000sq. ft. fitness center. 5 - 930 Goddard Way, Green Bay, Hansen Frozen Foods, a 6,696-sq. ft. addition to the warehouse and repackaging area. Project completion expected in March.

- 3146 Yeager Dr., Green Bay, Yeager Properties, a 75,332-sq. ft. office and warehouse building. Project completion expected in May. General contractor is Keller Inc. of Kaukauna.

- 1001 S. Huron Road, Green Bay, Dell’s Service Center, a new automotive service garage and office.

- 1110 S. Huron Road, Green Bay, Cherney Microbiological Services, a 23,475-sq. ft. addition to the existing laboratory and testing complex.

- 600 Willard Dr., Ashwaubenon, PCM Employees Credit Union, a 12,276-sq. ft. financial institution office. Project completion expected in July.

- 2700 S. Ashland Ave., Ashwaubenon, Broadway Automotive, an addition and interior alteration to the existing auto dealership. Project completion expected in late March.

- 1121 W. Main Ave., Ashwaubenon, SparkNet Interactive, a four-story, 69,000-sq. ft. commercial office building. Project completion expected in June.

13 - 421 Lawrence Dr., De Pere, C Corrigan’s Custom Built Structures, an addition and alteration to the existing commercial building. Projects completed since our February issue: • Belmark Inc., 633 Heritage Road, De Pere.

US 41 business resources Tools to help your business during construction on US 41 available at

www.US41wisconsin.gov

16 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

(920) 492- 4120 US 41 Project Hotline

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BUILD UP GREEN BAY

4 10 11

5 9

7& 8 6

12 13

FIRE! Do you spend too much time putting out fires and not enough time improving your business? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here to help. Send an email to sean@newnorthb2b.com outlining your organizational challenges. You may be selected to receive no-cost assistance in our April cover story, providing you with tools to get you back on track.

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NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 17

AROUND THE BOARDROOM

2.2

Title: Revolutionizing Product Development: Quantum Leaps in Speed, Efficiency, and Quality Author: Steven C. Wheelwright Publisher: Free Press (1992) Pages: 364 List Price: $39.95

The percent decrease in the tax levy in Brown County from 2010 to 2011, which is the lowest tax levy increase of the 72 counties in Wisconsin. Source: Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance

Why Buy: Today, a company’s capability to conceive and design quality prototypes and bring a variety of superior products to market quicker than its competitors is increasingly the focal point of competition, contend leading product development experts Steven Wheelwright and Kim Clark. Drawing on six years of in-depth, systematic, worldwide research, they present proven principles for developing the critical capabilities for speed, efficiency, and quality that have worked again and again in scores of successful Japanese, American, and European fast-cycle firms.

...you’re a bad boss

When the number of employees Matt Kaplan managed at a lab at the University of Arizona mushroomed from six to 30, the school called in a management coach to make sure he was prepared. What he learned surprised him: his employees thought he was distant and didn’t trust their work. Experts say many bosses are similarly clueless about their appearance to employees. Here are five signals you may be one of them.

➊

5 signs...

Most of your emails are one-word long. It may be efficient, but many bosses don’t realize how curt a oneword email - even a simple “yes” or “no” - can be, says Barbara Pachter, a management coach and author of several workplace etiquette books. She calls it the “BlackBerry effect.” Some managers craft even shorter emails. When Christina Marcus emailed an idea for a project to a former boss, he responded “Y.” Thinking he was questioning her idea, she spent 20 minutes crafting a response. Turns out, the “Y” meant “yes,” not “why.”

➋

You rarely talk to your employees face to face. Relying on email may be convenient, but bosses are increasingly using technology to avoid having tough discussions, says Robert Sutton, professor at Stanford University and author of “Good Boss, Bad Boss.”

18 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

➌ Your employees are out sick – a lot. Employees will

fake sickness to avoid a bad boss, says Sutton. But there’s evidence that a bad boss may be bad for your health. A 2008 Swedish study that tracked more than 3,000 men over 10 years found the men who said they were poorly managed at work were 20 to 40 percent more likely to have a heart attack.

➍

Your team’s working overtime, but still missing deadlines. New bosses are particularly prone to giving unmanageable deadlines to staffers, says Gini Graham Scott, author of “A Survival Guide for Working with Bad Bosses.”

➎ You yell. Even if you aren’t screaming angrily at your

employees, speaking loudly can damage workplace morale, says Pachter. “Employees will constantly feel like they’re being reprimanded, and they’ll avoid you if there’s ever a problem,” she says. By Diana Middleton for The Wall Street Journal

www.newnorthb2b.com

AROUND THE BOARDROOM

y desperate writer-friend was drawn to a position with Hallmark® to repurpose successful greeting cards for new market segments. They’d give him, say, a best-selling Easter sentiment for aunts to favor their 5-year-old nephews, and have him rework the concept as a birthday greeting from live-in partymothers with adult sons who lost their mojo. Are you a greeting card? Competing for your buying audience’s share of mind, you need more than an artfully repurposed message – a waste of your money and your prospects’ time. Still how often we see industry giants standing on the drooping shoulders of vagueish “state-of-the-art” and “advanced technology” claims in a hopeless attempt to differentiate their marketplace offerings. What they really get is a comfortable and safe melding into the clutter of our over-communicated society. “Nicetalk” is everywhere. The good, great news: it creates a white-noise background against which a message of substance will powerfully pop. Take Barclays Capital for instruction’s sake. Despite pressure from slow markets and tougher competition, their award-winning financial performance wins praise from clients for its impeccable service and consistency. In painful contrast, consider their handiwork in a recent issue of The Economist. Headlined “UNITING AROUND ONE GOAL: YOUR SUCCESS,” it illustrates a weak effort manifesting the lowest common denominator. Note how readily almost any name (I’ll use “Ham Napkin”) could uselessly cut and paste the nicetalk and own it to the same degree that a Highway 41 wayside toilet is yours alone: “At Ham Napkin, your dedicated team is our entire company. Every relationship begins with a single point of contact. Then we build a unique team around your challenges, share knowledge among all our disciplines, and reach out across geographies to find the best ideas… At Ham Napkin, we know world-class solutions don’t come from departments – they come from talented people who share a collective goal: your success.”

Nicetalk Hear, hear! And effective messaging for award-winning companies doesn’t come from conservative boards of directors – it comes from strategies that navigate your industry’s blur of legal restrictions and still pay out. Almost as impotent is Huawei’s message: Headline: “We’ve found a way to help you reach for new heights.” No, this isn’t one of those inspirational posters from the motivation bin at Office Dump. But couldn’t it be? Copy: “Just like friends who help each other to reach for the sky, Ham Napkin can do the same for your business. That’s because we pioneer innovations that are based on our customers’ needs…” Pinch me. It sounds as if this company is telling us they actually develop actual products based on what customers will actually buy! If the novelty of this revelation hasn’t caused them to float off with those balloons, deserving hangers-on will be impressed to learn how “45 out of the world’s top 50 telcos choose Huawei.” But that nugget is buried low in the copy instead of being blasted in the headline where it belongs. Let’s finish with Credit Suisse. Headline: “50% engineer. 50% entrepreneur. 100% father. One Ham Napkin for all that matters to you.” Aside from the unsettling mathematical abusage by another respected financial, readers must be underwhelmed by this: “People are not made of numbers. They are made of hopes and dreams, passions and partnerships, talent and tenacity. Ham Napkin strives to see beyond the numbers and understand what success means to our clients, to deliver what really matters.” ZAP! And China owns Volvo. Behind the façade of Mr. Stronglove is an advertising professional wielding his strategic and conceptual stealth in all forms of media (except book jackets). Send comments (or crisp twenties) to piercestronglove@gmail.com.

NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 19

COVER STORY

On the Mend Regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s manufacturers showing signs of emerging growth in the wake of the recent recession

Story by Sean Fitzgerald New North B2B Publisher

20 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

www.newnorthb2b.com

COVER STORY Manufacturing has been at the heart of northeast Wisconsin’s economy since the advent of the paper and wood products industries in the mid-1800s. Since that time, skilled trades needed to help maintain and advance production of quality goods made at these mills dotting the landscape of the Fox River Valley created highly-technical, well-paid jobs that drove the economic engine of northeast Wisconsin’s economy. Fast forward more than a century into the late 1990s, and manufacturing – lead by a slimming paper industry workforce – began to lose some of its economic prowess. At the end of the last century, northeast Wisconsin had the second highest concentration of jobs in manufacturing of any region in the U.S., with nearly a third of the workforce being employed in the manufacturing sector. But as globalism gained a stronger foothold heading into the 21st century, manufacturing took route elsewhere, sometimes taking Wisconsin jobs with it. Statewide, manufacturing employment totaled more than 565,000 in 2001, dropping as low as 420,000 at the beginning of 2010, according to statistics kept by the state Department of Workforce Development. Today, manufacturing employs an estimated one in five workers in northeast Wisconsin’s New North region. While some observers of the state’s economy have argued manufacturing is dying, the fact of the matter is that it’s changing – low-skilled jobs and production of commodity goods are heading overseas, likely for the long haul. But Wisconsin still has a hold on a number of segments of advanced manufacturing, those areas where innovation, continual development of craftsmanship and sometimes – simply – geography, leave state producers head and shoulders above the rest. A report released in early February from the Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturing Alliance indicated manufacturing in the region is poised to rebound following the recession at the end of the past decade. What the 2011 Manufacturing Vitality Index indicated was hopeful news for a struggling economy in the region. Manufacturers are expecting increasing revenues in 2011. Manufacturers do plan to invest in equipment and in their facilities this year. And manufacturers do plan to add to their workforce this year with well-paid, highly skilled positions. Of the 179 manufacturers from the region participating in a survey conducted through the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh’s Business Success Center, nearly 60 percent experienced revenue growth from 2009 to 2010, and even more anticipated further sales growth into 2011. Slightly more than 40 percent said they planned some form of capital expansion totaling at least a quarter million dollars or more during the next two years. And about that same amount also said they plan to hire additional staff sometime in 2011,

with the bulk of that staff coming from the local labor force. While we’re still awaiting the evidence of most of this investment and growth, there’s trace data and pockets of development that indicate manufacturing will come back to nearly as strong as it was before the recession. Statewide employment in manufacturing did climb by nearly 14,000 jobs from December 2009 to December 2010, an increase of 3 percent. Attending the release of the 2011 Manufacturing Vitality Index in early February and confidently upholding Gov. Scott Walker’s campaign promise to create 250,000 new jobs in Wisconsin by 2015, state Department of Commerce Secretary and former Green Bay Mayor and Green Bay Area Chamber of Commerce President Paul Jadin said the index reflects much of what local economic development officials already know: that many of the region’s manufacturers have been trendsetters for their colleagues around the state. “Northeast Wisconsin is going to be the leader in (working toward the creation of 250,000 jobs), and advanced manufacturing is going to lead the way,” Jadin said.

Growth around the region While there were a small number of northeast Wisconsin manufacturers who thrived during the past two years, many struggled to stay afloat. Some shut down their equipment, let go of their workforce, and shuttered their factory doors altogether. Though still on the rebound, a variety of manufacturers across the New North have already made commitments of capital in recent months to expand their facilities and to expand their capabilities through the acquisition of new equipment.

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(920) 303-1686 1819 Witzel Avenue Oshkosh, Wisconsin 54902 Source: Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturing Alliance 2011Manufacturing Vitality Index

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COVER STORY are showing signs of resurgence in the Fox Valley. Sonntag adCurrently there’s more than a dozen projects and more than mitted the decision to invest in the equipment was somewhat a half-million square feet of new industrial space under conpredicated on the success of the industry. He hoped to see struction along the U.S. 41 corridor in northeast Wisconsin. revenues increasing for the larger converters his firm works for These and other manufacturers are also buying new equipment to be reassured his team was making the right decision. for facilities, looking to go after new business opportunities At the outset, Resource One is training existing staff to operemerging on the heels of the recession. ate the new equipment alongside the Little Chute-based Resource One Inexisting state-of-the-art cutting maternational LLC, a high-end contract ...nearly 60 percent (of chines in its 200,000-sq. ft. plant. paper converter, has made consistent inmanufacturers in northeast The work at Resource One is capital vestments in its precision cutting equipment throughout the past decade. Wisconsin) experienced revenue intensive, Sonntag said, not necessarily labor intensive, though he said About a year ago the company growth from 2009 to 2010... there could be a need to bring on as made the decision to invest $1 million many as a dozen additional jobs at into an 88-inch Jagenburg Synchro some point down the road. machine, which allows it to do precision cutting on much larger Not too far away in Kaukauna’s Northgate Industrial Park, sheets, said Tom Sonntag, president of the 30-year-old firm Precision Paper Converters purchased a new facial tissue conthat supports about 60 employees. The two-story high piece of verting line in early February. The company manufacturers the equipment was up and running this past January, enabling the Sniffles brand of facial tissues and also produces a variety of tiscompany to expand its previous capabilities without competsue products for the away-from-home and health care markets. ing against its customer base, which is primarily other, larger Once the new line is installed in its facility and up and running converters. by the end of March, it should open up opportunities for new “What we try to do is make ourselves a natural extension customers and add value for existing customers, said Jeff Anof our customers,” said Sonntag, indicating its new equipment derson, vice president of sales and marketing for the company. will allow its customers to more effectively deliver on promises Even though the new equipment provides some additionto its end-users in the printing and packaging industries. al flexibility in packaging, the decision to invest the capital The new precision folio sheeting equipment provides capato purchase the new converting line was really about adding bilities to deliver raw materials for the general consumer packgreater capacity. The capacity on Precision Paper Converters’ aging and food container packaging industries, both of which

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COVER STORY existing equipment was already nearly tapped out, Anderson said. With the new equipment, Anderson indicated Precision Paper Converters plans to add six to eight employees to help with its expanded production capabilities.

Building a better workforce In spite of several rays of sunshine shedding light on the resurgence of manufacturing in the area, the vitality index of manufacturing in the New North region wasn’t all roses. President of Green Bay-based Fosberg America Jeff Pallini, who serves as chair of the Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturers Alliance, presented a sobering reality-check in sharing data from the recent survey. Despite many manufacturers ability to grow their operations at this point, many struggle to find sufficiently trained and qualified employees to fill those roles from the labor pool here in northeast Wisconsin. The end result of such a workforce shortage typically meant recruiting outside the area, or even more frustrating, not being able to produce the kind of quality manufacturers believe they’re capable of at a rate competitive enough to grow their top line. Pallini said it’s a genuine concern that begs the attention of educators, business leaders and economic development officials across the area. “We need a way to retain and keep this workforce in the area,” Pallini said, reporting from the vitality index that nearly one in four responding manufacturers who plan to add jobs this coming year anticipate difficulty locating and ultimately

hiring appropriate talent. “It is important to note that as companies invest in advanced technology and modernization, the difficulty in finding the skilled workforce needed to work in advanced manufacturing will most likely increase.” That message isn’t new in the region, and there have been entities who’ve acted to make improvements. Such is the case at Fox Valley Technical College, which in February opened up its 27,000-sq. ft. Advanced Manufacturing Process Center in Oshkosh. The newly constructed, stateof-the-art training facility replaces a cramped facility at FVTC’s Spanbauer Center that ran on three shifts nearly around the clock. “It’s a facility expansion that’s been on our radar for some time,” said Susan May, president of Fox Valley Tech. “We looked to do it in three to five years, but it’s a need we have now. We knew we needed this to be on a fast track.”

Workforce Growth & Recruitment

Source: Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturing Alliance 2011Manufacturing Vitality Index

NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011l 23

COVER STORY Despite many manufacturers ability to grow ... many struggle to find sufficiently trained and qualified employees to fill those roles from the labor pool ... Increased production needs to service multi-billion dollar military contracts with Oshkosh Corp., Marinette Marine and their legion of supply-chain vendors throughout the region have only accented what was already a dire need for skilled welders across the New North. Fox Valley Tech’s new facility quadrupled the amount of weld-booth space available for training, offering 40 individual weld booths equipped with more than $1 million in brand new, top-of-the-line equipment donated by Miller Electric Manufacturing Co. in Appleton. “It’s all about staying competitive with a top-quality workforce,” said Mike Weller, president of Miller Electric, whose firm has more than a decade-long history of providing FVTC with quality equipment to train welding skills on equipment these skilled employees will likely use in their careers. While the new advanced manufacturing training center does include classroom space and accommodates more traditional students going though a two-year degree program, FVTC can also customize a training regiment based upon the needs of a particular employer. Oshkosh Corp., for example, is sending employees through an intense 10-week training module designed to teach specific welding capabilities needed to fulfill its large M-ATV contract with the U.S. military. As a unique facility in Wisconsin and in the Midwest, May said the new center is attracting interest from students and

employers up and down the U.S. 41 corridor from Milwaukee to north of the Green Bay area.

What’s to come The NEW Manufacturing Alliance is optimistic such workforce needs will be met, Pallini said, and has worked in its own programming to recognize manufacturing “all stars” across the New North for the past three years. The partnership of 80 manufacturers and other support entities across the region also recognizes the need to build a sturdy, local supply chain is critical for a competitive regional economy. But Pallini expects – as do many of his counterparts at other manufacturers across northeast Wisconsin – that a vibrant advanced manufacturing environment will only continue to hold its roots with a strong commitment from educational institutions at all levels, local government officials and the workforce development community. And while some manufacturers have threatened to move their operations out of the area – and others have left – Pallini believes nurturing such partnerships can create the best opportunities right here in the region. “By committing to the future of manufacturing in northeast Wisconsin, we can continue to say that you can make it here,” he said.

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GUEST COMMENTARY

WEAC’s school reform plan

Why the state’s business community should take notice

Tom Still President Wisconsin Technology Council

It’s easy to be cynical about the plan for school reform offered by the statewide teachers’ union… almost too easy. Yes, the proposal by the Wisconsin Education Association Council could have been floated at any time during the eight-year term of former Gov. Jim Doyle, a Democrat the union supported. Yes, WEAC could have put forward its ideas for improving teacher quality, rewarding top teachers and fixing Milwaukee Public Schools last year before the federal government rejected Wisconsin’s application for “Race to the Top” money. And, yes, the leadership at WEAC certainly saw the handwriting on the chalkboard when Republican Gov. Scott Walker and a GOPdominated Legislature swept the November elections. Everyone knows all of that, however, so it doesn’t take Prince Machiavelli to plot the obvious politics surrounding the WEAC plan. Simply put, the union is trying to stay ahead of the train. But what really matters is that front-line educators have signaled they’re ready for school reform – changes that could build a smarter, better-prepared workforce for Wisconsin. It’s an offer that should not be shrugged off with an early dismissal bell. For the first time, WEAC has endorsed reforms it previously opposed. Those include: n Dropping a teacher pay schedule that rewarded longevity and advanced degrees but little else. The union now supports “merit pay” based on performance, national certification, leadership roles, and how teachers handle more difficult assignments such as bilingual or special education, or teaching in underperforming schools. n Adopting student test results, a peer review panel, mentoring and other factors to root out ineffective teachers. n Breaking up the state’s largest school district, Milwaukee Public Schools, into six smaller units within four years. After WEAC’s announcement in early February, Walker praised the proposal and even telephoned the union’s president, Mary Bell, to congratulate her. Then again, that olive branch was quickly followed by Walker’s budget adjustment bill proposals to dramatically limit the power of public employee unions – including the teachers’ union itself. For now, let’s assume a foundation for constructive conversation still exists. What

should be the role of public education’s ultimate consumers – businesses and the communities in which their employees live and work? That role should be to support school reform, which is vital to Wisconsin’s economic prosperity. Study after study has revealed that American schools aren’t producing enough students who can compete in the global economy. That’s true even in Wisconsin, which prides itself on aboveaverage performance in college placement scores, high-school graduation rates and more. Trouble is, students in other nations are pulling ahead of their American counterparts by most measures – especially in science, technology, engineering and math, the socalled “STEM” disciplines. According to federal data, job openings requiring expertise in STEM fields will increase by 18.3 percent through 2014. Many of Wisconsin’s fastest-growing industries and its highest-demand jobs are in fields that require rigorous training in science, technology, engineering and math. Unless Wisconsin can produce more highschool graduates who are proficient in those disciplines and more, state businesses won’t be able to fill critical jobs. Businesses that cannot find the workers they need close to home are often forced to expand elsewhere – hardly a formula for success. Poorly educated students rarely become the entrepreneurs of tomorrow. That is particularly true in the Milwaukee area, where the state’s largest school district is failing to educate many children. The largest city in Wisconsin cannot prosper without good schools, which are necessary over the long haul if Milwaukee hopes to renew its economy and its civic life. It’s easy to be cynical about WEAC’s newfound religion, but it’s also important to understand how the union works. Its leaders have been open to change for years, but have typically encountered stiff, behind-the-scenes opposition from old-school local bargaining units. On the other hand, about one-third of all WEAC members identify themselves as Republicans – a demographic that could back reform unless they feel backed into a corner. The debate has begun over how to improve Wisconsin’s public schools. Late or otherwise, it’s a debate worth having.

Still is president of the Wisconsin Technology Council. He is the former associate editor of the Wisconsin State Journal.

NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 25

TECHNOLOGY

Up on Apps Enhancing customer relations in the New North through smart phones

Story by Lee Marie Reinsch

If you’ve ever frantically ripped through Yellow Pages in search of an eatery to take finicky in-laws to, then you’ve experienced market drive behind the app. 26 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

the the the

www.newnorthb2b.com

TECHNOLOGY Short for applications, apps are smart-phone shortcuts to tasks your phone otherwise would not be smart enough to perform. Take the Gallagher’s Pizza app, for example. Tap the spinning pizza slice and you launch the Green Bay pizzeria’s complete menu – with prices, too – to ensure there’s something even dyspeptic Grandpa Ernie can eat, before you drag him there and loudly find out otherwise. Since the app includes prices, you can estimate how much of a financial hit the utopian bread-breaking with the in-laws will cause you, while simultaneously ringing up Gallagher’s to place your order. “All you have to do is type ‘Green Bay pizza’ and we’re the first to come up,” said Gallagher’s east-side location general manager Mike Poley. He said the app’s been a boon for his business, even though he personally doesn’t have a smart phone. “We like to level the playing field and make it affordable for smaller businesses to be able to have an app and compete with the big boys on their level,” said Ken Kriegel, owner of JackRussellApps, an Oshkosh-based company that created the Gallagher’s app. “Pizza Hut has an app on iPhone, and now Gallagher’s can compete with that,” Kriegel said. Gallagher’s app has contributed to an increase in orders from visitors to the area staying in hotels, Poley said. This could very well indicate that it’s not necessary to know an area in order to find good eats there.

Pope + bubble wrap = common ground? Apps can be clever, completely insane or, God forbid, even practical. There’s one that lets you pop on-screen bubble wrap, to while away those endless Saturday morning grocery lines you swore last Saturday you’d never get yourself into again. Another app called Shazam will identify and name music tracks, like the tunes in grocery stores that annoy you, if only because you can’t name them. Navigational apps can tell you where you are at Point A and how to get to Point B, even if you don’t have a GPS in your 1986 Saab. Google came out with a new app in February that translates speech in 50 languages. So, in theory at least, you could discuss the merits of kimchee with the Korean lady in the grocery line with you, even if her English is less sharp than the bite of the pickled Asian delicacy. The Pope’s even gotten in on the action. The Catholic

“

We like to level the playing field and make it affordable for smaller businesses to be able to have an app and compete with the big boys on their level.

”

Ken Kriegel, owner of JackRussellApps

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NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 27

L 6

TECHNOLOGY

Church has sanctioned a “confession” app, available on iTunes for $1.99. So, Catholic or not, you can repent for the swear words you muttered in that interminable line at Groceries R Us.

Unmet need Ken Kriegel and Bryan Austin founded JackRussellApps of Oshkosh in January of 2010. Yes, it’s named after the Jack Russell terrier, whose personality wouldn’t allow anything but that moniker, according to Kriegel, who is owned by one. “We were looking for a name and we couldn’t come up with anything,” Kriegel said. “Then my dog jumped on me and we both looked at each other and said, ‘JackRussellApps!’” said Kriegel. They bill their company as “the only U.S.-based company in the world to provide apps on all six smart-phone platforms.” Those platforms include BlackBerry, Android, Windows mobile, Apple iPhone, Apple iPod Touch and Apple iPad. “We were looking for a market that wasn’t being tapped yet,” Kriegel said. “We did our research and found out that the only people out there doing apps were doing Apple applications for iPhone.” Apps more or less simplify sites’ functions. For example, the Gallagher’s app is like one-stop shopping for pizza: With one tap, you get menu, phone dialing,

28 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

hours, directions. People who use smart phones don’t have to stop what they’re doing and focus on what they need to do. One icon, called a launcher icon, can take them to pretty much everything they need for that particular task. Many apps take up a lot of memory space, so often people are choosy or reluctant to download them. But JackRussellApps are smaller – one megabyte or under – and take up less space than most other apps, which range from 2 all the way up to 40 MB, Kriegel said. Not too surprisingly in this era where breadcrumbs are left everywhere, they’re able to track the apps, too. “We can see who uses the app and when they use it, how many people download it, and how long they keep it on their phone,” Kriegel said. He said that between 28 and 68 percent of people who download JackRussellApps keep them on their phone. Within the first few weeks after launching the Gallagher’s app, JackRussellApps was able to determine that more than 3,000 people downloaded it onto their phones.

It’s a thing now Last fall, The Pew Research Center’s Internet and American Life Project and the Nielsen Co. released results of a study called ‘The Rise of the Apps Culture.’ It said that one in three of us have a

phone with apps, and that 68 percent of us routinely use them. Most app users still go for the freebies – only 13 percent of those of us with apps on our phones have paid for them. The average regular app-user has 18 of them downloaded onto their phone, according to the study. Pew defines apps as “end-user software applications that are designed for a cell phone operating system and which extend the phone’s capabilities by enabling users to perform particular tasks.” (Phew!) Most app-users use them for games, followed by news and weather, mapping or searching, and music – in that order, according to the study. The apps-centric Web site Appolicious said that of the 465,000 apps out there, most – about 350,000 – are for iPhones, with 100,000 for Android phones and the remaining 15,000 apps for BlackBerry users. Appolicious predicted that apps will become so smart and responsive to their users that, with the help of GPS tracking, they’ll be able to determine whether users are riding in a car or walking. They will be able to listen to phone calls so marketing can target those phone users. For example, a smart phone user debating with a friend where to meet for lunch will get suggestions, deals and directions to certain eateries, according to Appolicious.

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TECHNOLOGY

The Nielsen end of the study found that app users tend to be young, affluent and male.

“An intimate experience” Dr. Phil might find this amusing, but apps can improve relationships – customer relationships, at least. Oshkosh Corp.’s defense sector has an app especially for showcasing its military vehicles at trade shows. Instead of loading up trade show attendees with piles of brochures and promising to follow up with a phone call later, defense sector reps use their app to display the features of the vehicles to the attendees. “All of their photography and information are on the app,” said Lynn Douville of The Karma Group, a Green Bay-based creative agency which designed the app and registered it with Apple. “(Clients) have a more intimate engagement in reviewing information and technology. It generates a discussion; the person from Oshkosh can talk in an engaging situation, rather than handing them a piece of literature and walking down the aisle.” The iPads are set up so that the Oshkosh reps can email literature from the app to the potential client’s email. “They eliminate the paper expense and the attendees’ having to carry around a big stack of paper,” Douville said. Since the people who would be looking for military equipment

tend to be high-ranking military and government officials, maintaining privacy can be a factor. The app eliminates that risk by keeping contact information confidential, Douville said. Another plus: When information changes, updates can be relayed to servers which update the app. “Information doesn’t have to be reprinted every time it changes,” Douville said. Many apps are consumer-based, but not Oshkosh’s. “What we are talking about is an app that is designed specifically for B2B use,” said Tonita Proulx of The Karma Group. “We developed this to put on iPads for Oshkosh defense employees only.” Another task the app accomplishes: it shows the world that Oshkosh Corp. is in the forefront technologically. “Oshkosh has repositioned itself from a company that makes trucks into one that is more current with technology, and this app helps demonstrate that they’re on the cutting edge,” Douville said.

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TECHNOLOGY Alas. All of the fun has been wrung out of the experience of erudition at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, thanks to Jamie Ceman. She’s the instigator behind the college’s app, which practically steers students around campus. Its interconnected online directory and campus map let them find their classes and identify where they are, in contrast. The UW-Oshkosh app also links to UWO Today, the Advance Titan college newspaper, UW-Oshkosh’s Twitter and YouTube accounts, along with safety info like the campus police and the safe-walk program. Ceman, who is assistant director of multichannel marketing and Web development for UW-Oshkosh, said her school is starting out small as they test the app in beta, but plans to add more functions once it gets off the ground. Students will then be able to keep tabs on their TitanCard account balances, look at class schedules, and register for courses. “What we want to do is make daily functions more accessible to them,” Ceman said. “We want to make sure we are keeping pace with them (technologically).” Ceman said the school keeps close tabs on how people are accessing information about UW-Oshkosh, and they noticed in recent years a significant trend in accessing through mobile devices. “We saw it happening, and I feel like a university has an obligation to keep up with how faculty and students are accessing information,” Ceman said. The app works mainly on iPhones and Androids, but a Webbased version will enable anyone with a mobile device to access it, Ceman said.

On the Web The Pew Research Center study The Rise of the Apps Culture http://tinyurl.com/4lccp4m Appolicious www.appolicious.com

Green Bay chamber: ‘Progressive offering’ The Green Bay Area Chamber of Commerce launched its own app in early March during its Business Expo at KI Center. It aims to help people navigate their way around, not only the chamber Web site, but the community, according to chamber marketing and communications manager Lori Kaye Lodes. “Chambers and apps aren’t often mentioned in the same sentence, but it’s a rather progressive offering,” Lodes said. “Chambers aren’t typically the first ones out of the gate with the newest technology. We are excited to be at the forefront.” JackRussellApps developed the chamber app, which Kriegel said they wanted to keep clean and very simple. Its nine launcher icons include tools for the member directory, checking out the chamber’s calendar of events, accessing the member toolbox of chamber resources, logging on to three social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn), finding directions to the chamber offices, direct-dialing the chamber offices, and navigation via a GPS function. The app is free and downloadable at app stores for three platforms of smart phones: BlackBerry, Apple (iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch) and Android. “It doesn’t cover everybody under the sun, but we are hoping it reaches the majority,” Lodes said. This won’t make local printing companies happy, but the chamber’s app replaces thousands of dollars worth of printing jobs. For years, the chamber printed 10,000 to 12,000 copies of its member directory, and bid the job out to its member printers. “Over time and given the feedback of members, we have realized relevancy of that is not there,” Lodes said. “That is one of the precipitators for our doing a smart phone app. We wanted an accessible, mobile, on-the-go app for people to look up everything they could look up in a printed member directory. They can just take their phone out, and there it is.” An alumna of Ripon College, Lee Marie Reinsch is a freelance writer based in Green Bay.

30 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

www.newnorthb2b.com

WORKFORCE

Pipeline

Pipe Dream?

Baby Boomers are turning 65. A survey of New North CEOs opines there are not sufficient leaders to replace them. Story by Michael Bina

32 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

The Leadership Pipeline is half empty – but maybe even more than that. As the first-born Baby Boomers started turning 65 on Jan. 1 this year, CEOs and business owners in the New North are asking timely questions: Are there sufficient numbers of emerging leaders in the pipeline to replace retiring Boomers? In a word - no. For the better part of a year, the Nicolet Bank Business Pulse has focused the attention of New North CEOs and business leaders on issues associated with leadership. More particularly, those of future leadership. The Nicolet Pulse quarterly survey includes 500 CEOs and business owners who provide their insight on a variety of timely business issues. Leaders who responded to the questions of leadership said they weren’t terribly confident their pipeline is overflowing with energetic, emerging Leaders to replace those rapidly retiring Boomers. Beginning back on Jan. 1, 2011, a total of 10,000 Baby Boomers will turn 65 everyday – and they will do that every day for the next 19 years, according to Pew Research. “In front of our eyes, we’re witnessing a generation of leaders leave the market,” reported David Wegge, president of Green Bay-based IntellectualMarketing and direc-

www.newnorthb2b.com

WORKFORCE tor of St. Norbert College Survey Center. “It’s important to take an inventory, and our leadership studies are providing a good accounting not only for sponsors like Nicolet Bank, but for the entire New North community. It’s good to know where we’re at; more importantly, it’s good to know where we’re going!”

Where we’re at The leadership survey conducted during the fourth quarter 2010 indicated 44 percent of CEOs responded “there’s a shortage of leaders in the pipeline.” Additionally, 16 percent indicated “they’re not sure.” Translation: If a CEO said s/he’s not sure about something, you can be pretty sure they know no emerging leaders in their pipeline, and probably, no emerging leaders in anyone else’s pipeline, either.

So, some 60 percent of CEOs in the New North might be looking for an emerging leader? The good news is 40 percent thought they had something to work with – that their pipeline had sufficient supply. The next logical question – “How much confidence do you have in the leaders in the pipeline?” A total of 59 percent of the CEOs responding to the survey said they have a ‘moderate’ level of confidence; 20 percent said they have ‘some’ confidence; 4 percent have ‘none’ but…17 percent indicated they have a ‘great’ deal of confidence. Mike Daniels, president and chief operating officer of Green Bay-based Nicolet Bank, said, “It’s not exactly a ringing endorsement, but it’s not that bad, either.”

Opportunity Knocking Mike Scott was the founding president of Propel, Oshkosh’s young professional group. He’s also a partner at Independence Financial, LLC in Oshkosh, and believes such perceptions from any era of leaders about their emerging replacements are relative to their place in time. “I see a tremendous opportunity for young professionals who are driven to commit the time and energy required to earn their way into those management positions, or buying out current business owners,” Scott said. “I don’t know what CEOs thought about emerging leaders in previous generations, but I think we have a history of stepping up to the plate when opportunities present themselves. And there will be many as Boomers continue to retire,” he said. How does a CEO measure confidence in a generation that, probably, they barely know? How do they recognize a lack of emerging leadership in a pipeline? When the Baby Boomer generation was young and knocking on The Leadership Door, there was probably little CEO confidence in that demographic. Nevertheless, what’s in the pipeline is in the pipeline. That’s it. It won’t suddenly overflow with a bunch of new, emerging leaders. The New North Pipeline is a little like Green Bay Packer cornerback Tyrone Williams. When asked if he was tall enough to be a leader in a big game, Williams said, “5 feet 9 inches…that’s all God gave me.” Regardless of what’s been “given” to The New North Leadership Pipeline, it behooves CEOs to try to identify, and develop, whatever talent is there. Packers Coach Mike McCarthy is into it as well. “I’m always looking for opportunities to develop leadership – whether it’s an assistant coach or player,” McCarthy said during a post-Super Bowl news conference. “And there was a positive response that came from that.” Yeah, like, you won the Super Bowl, for crying out loud! As a separate component of this study, the Nicolet Bank Business Pulse also asked young professionals in the New North, “What is the most important thing they need to further their development as a leader?” The most popular, affinitygrouped answer was ‘opportunity,’ according to Nicolet Bank’s Daniels. A total of 90 young professionals who are members of either Current in the Green Bay area or Pulse in the Fox Cities

NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 33

WORKFORCE responded to Nicolet’s Leadership Study in January. Nearly all Ahhh, Youth! said they wanted more from their employer – more opportuYoung professionals do want to make a mark, and nity, more leadership development, and more mentorship. do want to assume leadership positions. Interestingly, 58 percent of young professional respondents “When traditional establishments stand in the way, they’re said they had no mentor in their current position, and 53 pernot afraid to go around,” Johnson said. “Often times, they cent said their organization did not offer leadership developstart their own businesses, nonprofits and other organizations ment programs. that help them achieve their goals of making their larger footThe good news is more than 40 percent felt they do have a print,” Johnson added. mentor. Nearly 50 percent do have a development program. Nicolet Bank Business Pulse That pipeline is half full. asked CEOs how they’d rate Brian Johnson, who runs Curthemselves compared with other rent, the young professionals Nevertheless, what’s in the pipeline organizations in developing leadprogram of the Green Bay Area ers, as well as in leadership. Chamber of Commerce, said is in the pipeline. That’s it. It won’t About half, or 49 percent, said young professionals want to spend suddenly overflow with a bunch of ‘about the same’ as everyone else their time building on successin the New North, while 39 percent ful foundations already created new, emerging leaders. said they were ‘better than most.’ by previous generations rather “If 39 percent believe they’re than, “unnecessarily extending a better than most at developing learning curve.” Johnson said the leaders, then why isn’t the confidence in the next generation right resources are “right in front of us.” much higher?” asked Nicolet’s Mike Daniels. “Is it because they “We’re on the cusp of a transitioning leadership paradigm; may be better than most, but not yet where they need to be?” asking people to assume responsibilities that many are unfamiliar Green Bay Packers Coach Mike McCarthy experimented with,” he said. “While most are ready for that challenge, there’s quite a bit this past year with his instinctual ‘leadership develno question they’d prefer being mentored by existing leaders.” opment program.’

FACE of Keller

I am your next door neighbor. I may have volunteered be-

side you with the Optimist Club or Big Brothers, Big Sisters or taught one of your children in Junior Achievement. I’ve helped out with Habitat for Humanity, Rebuilding Together Fox Valley, and most recently, Extreme Makeover - Home Edition. As a commercial Regional Manager, I may have built your Manufacturing Plant or your office building.

I am a face of Keller and I live and work in your community. I am an Employee Owner, Regional Manager, and Design/Build Expert. But don’t just take me at face value, call today and experience for yourself the difference that is Keller, Inc.

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Celebrating 50 Years of Construction Excellence See Mark’s work at the following local businesses: Northshore Bank, Women’s Specialty Care, Bay Industries, Lamers Bus Lines, Faith United Church, Tadych’s Econo Foods, WireTech Fabricators, and Simon Creek Winery to name a few.

1.800.236.2534 l www.kellerbuilds.com Offices in the Fox Cities, Madison, Milwaukee & Wausau 34 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

Mark Regional Manager Co-Owner

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WORKFORCE “No one is comfortable delegating leadership – especially when you are the leader,” McCarthy said. “You just have to trust your instincts.” McCarthy’s considerable gut proved itself well this past season with the development of leaders in the locker room like quarterback Aaron Rogers and defensive back Charles Woodson. Wally Hilliard, one of the co-founders of American Medical Security Group in Green Bay and a king of the gut-instinct thing, had his own approach to leadership development: “We hire ‘em in masses, we train ‘em in classes, and we fire ‘em on their asses!” The Wally World view was that the pipeline’s always full of emerging leaders. He just had to find the right one or two, provide an opportunity, and get the heck out of their way. Hilliard wasn’t too picky; everyone had an opportunity to “show me whatcha’ got, kid,” or so it goes. Opportunity oozed throughout his operation. Opportunity was the culture. Those who weren’t fired on their asses probably reaped rewards.

Which came first: Opportunity or Idea? Hilliard and business partner Ron Weyers forged a national reputation for opportunity – after all, they were opportunists themselves. They were, however, more interested in idea development – and the business opportunities that naturally followed. Leadership development was a long-term commitment that didn’t produce results fast enough for Hilliard. He may have had it backwards, but he wanted people with ideas – people who maybe had some leadership potential. Gut instinct can’t be quantified, but it’s safe to say The Hilliard and Weyers’ Intuitive Leadership Development Formula went like this: employee recruitment and development with a little opportunistic propensity equals massive idea generation and tremendous financial success. From that perspective, “leadership” can be developed later. If 80 percent of New North CEOs are moderately or only somewhat confident in the next generation, will the opportunity come for those emerging leaders? Even if they’re wildly confident, will opportunity just automatically appear one day when the boss walks in? If young professionals are sitting around waiting for opportunity to come knocking, they’ll be disappointed. If, on the other hand, they seek it out, they’ll be in good shape.

Michael Bina is managing director of IntellectualMarketing, LLC - the firm that produces the quarterly Nicolet Bank Business Pulse. He also worked with Weyers and Hilliard at two of their most successful startups, including American Medical Security. If you’re interested in any of the business data collected by IntellectualMarketing and Nicolet Bank, contact Bina at 920.362.5757.

Always putting out fires in your business? Want some help improving your organization?

Help is on the way. Send a short 200-word noteoutlining your problems to sean@newnorthb2b.com. You may be selected to receive no-cost assistance in our March cover story.

Firefighters of northeast Wisconsin

coming april 2011 NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 35

PROFESSIONALLY SPEAKING

Encouraging organizational growth & renewal by Organization Development Consultants 888.827.1901

Jim Collins’ book Good to has influenced the thinking of business leaders since it was published in 2001. In light of the economic downturn and the subsequent slow road toward recovery, the question becomes, “How does an organization pursue renewal? How does an organization get back on the path toward greatness and stay there?” In our opinion, in order to decisively answer this question, leaders of the organization must recognize the critical role they play as “architects” of the organization. This means tending to both the bottom line (the “what”) and the “other” bottom line (i.e., corporate culture – the “how”). Leaders need to set a tone at the top that says, “We make the pursuit of excellence an everyday focus, not just a sometimes concern. We hire the best people and develop them to the fullest. We fine tune and augment our processes and operations so the product or service we offer to our customers consistently wows them. We monitor the competition and trends in the

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36 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

external marketplace. We make the pursuit of innovation an organizational priority. In short, we recognize the journey is never done. The race we’re running is a marathon, not a sprint, and we intend to excel in every stage.” At Organization Development Consultants, Inc. (ODC), we work with clients of all sizes from all marketplace sectors in support of their quest for sustained excellence. We are a performance consulting firm staffed by a seasoned staff of organization development professionals and industrial/organizational psychologists that carries out goal-referenced, outcomebased interventions that enhance the performance of individuals, teams, and the organization at-large. To pursue a systematic and systemic process of growth and renewal, we believe leaders must: • Build dynamic organizational systems • Reawaken and revitalize the workforce • Take risks and encourage others to do the same • Encourage change-friendly mindsets

• Facilitate a process improvement orientation • Rekindle an entrepreneurial spirit • Craft an open, flexible corporate culture It was John Glenn, former astronaut and U.S. Senator, who observed, “People are afraid of the future, of the unknown. If we face up to it, and take the dare of the future, we can have some control over our destiny. That’s an exciting idea to me, better than waiting with everybody else to see what’s going to happen.” We’re with Senator Glenn. Dr. Daniel Schroeder is President of ODC. Additionally, he coordinates the Organizational Behavior and Leadership program at Edgewood College in Madison, serves as a judge for the Better Business Bureau’s International Torch Award for Business Ethics and Integrity, and is a featured columnist for Biz Times Milwaukee. For a free initial consultation, contact him at 888.827.1901 or at Dan.Schroeder@ OD-Consultants.com.

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PROFESSIONALLY SPEAKING

Torch Awards for business ethics & integrity by Better Business Bureau The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau Business Ethics Torch Awards were created to showcase ethical Wisconsin companies and charities that build trust, advertise honestly, tell the truth, remain transparent and honor their promises. Spotlighting these companies and charities fits the BBB mission, which is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. Why do companies enter? Entering your company or charity shows your customers, vendors and employees that your company is committed to honest and ethical business practices. We invite you to apply today or nominate another deserving company or charity. Who is eligible to enter? This award is open to all Wisconsin for-profit, 501(c) (6) not-for-profit and 501(c)(3) charities, whether or not they are members of the Better Business Bureau. Local, state or federal government agencies are not eligible for this award. All companies and charities who enter must maintain a

JoEllen Wollangk

B-minus rating with the BBB in order to remain part of the program. All winners of the Torch Awards must sit out for the next three years. Runners up and honorable mentions are invited to reapply. 501(c)(3) charities are asked to review the voluntary standards developed by the BBB Wise Giving Alliance found at www.bbb.org/charity. These standards, although not mandatory, may provide assistance in responding to the four ethics criteria. Non-profits and charities are asked to provide a copy of their 990s. What are the award categories? Awards will be presented to a maximum of six winners, runners up and honorable mentions. Businesses and 501(c)(6) non-profits will compete together in four size categories: 1-5 employees; 6-50 employees; 51-500 employees; and 501 or more employees. Charities defined as 501(c)(3) organizations will compete separately in two size categories: 1-50 employees and 51 or more employees. How are the entries judged? Applica-

920.734.4352 tions are reviewed by a prestigious panel of judges for their best proven examples of ethical practices or ethical dilemmas in the following four criteria: 1) ethical management practices, 2) ethical customer, vendor and stakeholder relations practices, 3) honest communications and marketing practices, and 4) trustworthy reputation within your industry and community. Go to www.wisconsin.bbb.org/torch for the nomination packet or email cmilos@ wisconsin.bbb.org to nominate a company for the Torch Award. Attend a free Torch Ethics Workshop in Appleton on March 16 at 8 a.m., April 13 at 4 p.m., May 11 at 8 a.m., or June 8 at 4 p.m. Call 920-734-4352 for information. JoEllen Wollangk is the Northeast Regional Manager for the Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Wisconsin. JoEllen opened the first branch office of the Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin in Appleton in November of 2006.

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We are proud of this achievement. As a not-for-profit company based in Wisconsin, we have been making health insurance and other benefits available to public schools throughout the state for 40 years. We see this as doing our part to help public schools and their communities succeed in giving our children the best environment for a good education. *The CAHPS program is funded and administered by the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in partnership with public and private organizations.

Defining Excellence. Delivering Value. THE TRUST DIFFERENCE.

NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 37

WHO’S NEWS Incorporations New North B2B includes a monthly list of new business incorporations filed with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.

Brown County Bribon Dairy LLC, Brian Lasee, 5775 Ledgecrest Road, De Pere 54115. Educational Behavioral Consulting LLC, Carolyn Lois Jahns, 1858 S. Sunkist Cir., De Pere 54115. Prins Equine LLC, Wilma Jahnke, 2455 Shirley Road, De Pere 54115. MnM Bar LLC, Michael F. Schoen, 1857 Horseshoe Ct., De Pere 54115. Zyquest Med Holdings LLC, Allan P. Zeise, 1385 W. Main St., De Pere 54115. Infinity Export Inc., Scott A. Santaga, 2249 American Blvd., De Pere 54115. Strategic Conflict Resolution Services LLC, Michael Rust, 2002 Sandy Springs Road, De Pere 54115. Form-Rite Construction Corp., Robert J. Winnekens, E. 1296 Old Settlers Road, Denmark 54208. New Leaf Foods Inc., Crystal Osman, Downtown Green Bay Charities, 130 E. Walnut St., Ste. 501, Green Bay 54301. Metals America Salvage LLC, Debra Ann Ferraro, 1300 Dousman St., Green Bay 54303. Pennworth Insurance Agency LLC, Victoria Loga-Jaehnig, 1070 Elmore St., Green Bay 54303. Relevant Wash Equipment LLC, James R. Slade, 1029 S. Fisk St., Green Bay 54304. Abra Professional Cleaning Inc., Bernard R. Bleuel, 1977 Kane Lane, Green Bay 54311. Trinity Mechanical Services Inc., David J. Brawner, 716 S. Quincy St., Green Bay 54301. Green Bay Autism Inc., Danielle Riemer, 2921 Brookview Dr., Green Bay 54313. In Motion Massage Therapy LLC, Teresa Vanden Ack, 704 S. Ridge Road, Green Bay 54304. Vegas Cleaning LLC, Erasto Vegas, 868 Hillcrest Heights, Green Bay 54313. Nsight Spectrum LLC, Patrick D. Riordan, 450 Security Blvd., Green Bay 54313. Freedom Energy LLC, Michael O. Marquette, 1830 W. Mason St., Ste. 3, Green Bay 54303. 38 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

Bcentered Training LLC, Paula Coates, 3230 Devroy Lane, Green Bay 54313. Ashley Auto LLC, Ashley Matzke, 2545 Deckner Ave., Green Bay 54302. College Circuit LLC, Paul Klister, 111 N. Washington St., Green Bay 54301. Integrated Fire & Sprinkler LLC, Dawn M. Due, 1543 Rockwell Road, Green Bay 54313. Verhaagh’s Orthodontic Lab LLC, Jedidiah Verhaagh, 2710 S. Van Buren St., Green Bay 54301. Northcoast Power Systems LLC, Jason S. Johnson, 1009 Pine St., Green Bay 54301. N.E.W. Aviation LLC, Gary L. Fairchild, 2140 Hutson Road, Green Bay 54303. Bay Area Painting LLC, Jason J. Schwartz, 2607 Finger Road, Green Bay 54302. Your Healing Source LLC, Rodney L. Smith, D.C., 1705 S. Webster Ave., Green Bay 54301. The Orchid Bug LLC, Denise Kirchmayer, 420 Wesley, Green Bay 54302. Julie’s Jewelry & Fashion Ltd., Julia Alvarez, 1739 University Ave., Green Bay 54302. Tag Team Estate Sale Services LLC, Mary J. Vandenhouten, 2795 Classic Dr., Green Bay 54311. Richard A. Balch Financial Management Inc., Richard Anthony Balch, 1234 S. Ridge Road, Green Bay 54304. Standish Industries LLC, G&K Wisconsin Services LLC, 333 Main St., Ste. 600, Green Bay 54301. Milkstreet Advisors LLC, Michael G. Frohna, 238 E. Fairview Ave., Green Bay 54301. Glimr Cycles LLC, Richard A. Glime, 3535 Hidden Valley Lane, Green Bay 54311. Air Mechanix LLC, Jason Michael Rochon, 410 Bond St., Green Bay 54303. Business Club Center LLC, Greg J. Babcock, 417 S. Adams St., Green Bay 54301. New Wave Shuttle LLC, Floyd L. Paul, 1655 W. Mason St., Apt. 2, Green Bay 54303. Human Resources Consulting LLC, Diane Jean Biersteker, 5876 Wedgewood Dr., Little Suamico 54141. National Neurological Services LLC, Mark Peter Pulaski, 5272 Rockwood Point, New Franken 54229.

Wilke Orthodontics Ltd., Kevin Wilke, 4629 Clear View Lane, Oneida 54155. Howie’s Tackle LLC, Michael K. Richard, W1209 Town Hall Dr., Pulaski 54162. S&B Trailer, Truck & RV Sales LLC, Sean Jerovetz, 14430 Velp Ave., Suamico 54173. Suamico Scooter LLC, Nick Lanser, 2883 Yellow Jasmine Way, Suamico 54313.

Fond du Lac County Ironman Recycling LLC, Kim Cosgrove, N3836 Savage Road, Brandon 53919. T&A Trucking LLC, Amy C. Finger, 20 14th St., Fond du Lac 54935. Fuji Yummy Japanese Restaurant Inc., Bing Hui Yang, 221 N. Peters Ave., Fond du Lac 54935. Block Law Office LLC, Catherine A. Block, 104 S. Main Street, #714, Fond du Lac 54935. Hauser Farm LLC, Barbara A. Balog, N5967 Terrace Road, Fond du Lac 54937. Cardinal Bag Supplies LLC, Heather Ann Stange, 51 Hollander Court, Fond du Lac 54937. Agrofab LLC, Dean Birschbach, N6989 Rolling Meadows Dr., Fond du Lac 54937. Marine and RV Solutions LLC, Terry John Bashaw, 871 S. Main St., #180, Fond du Lac 54935. Olson Design LLC, Cheryl Ann Olson, W5322 Abel Drive, Fond du Lac 54937. Finished Edge Carpentry LLC, Adam Richard Mondloch, 906 W. Scott St., Apt EE107, Fond du Lac 54937. Wisconsin Cigar Masters LLC, Michael A. Opheim, Cobblestone Square, 770 S. Main St., Fond du Lac 54935. Brookside Appraisals LLC, Sally Renk, N10266 Gulig Road, Malone 53049. Krueger and Sons Metalworks LLC, Joshua Joe Krueger, N4790 Thill Road, Oakfield 53065. Susan Shady Tax & Accounting LLC, Susan G. Shady, 219 S. Main St., Oakfield 53065. Rauch Family Dentistry LLC, Christopher Jay Rauch, DDS, 929 S. Grove St., Ripon 54971. Renewed Perfection Mobile Reconditioning Specialist LLC, Kevin Paulus, 624 Hall St., Ripon 54971. Twohig’s Honey Dew Farms LLC, Daniel G. Twohig, W372 Forest Dr., St. Cloud 53079.

www.newnorthb2b.com

WHO’S NEWS R&A Upholstery LLC, Ronald Blaine Tepp, N9345 Viaduct Road, Van Dyne 54979. Vande Zande & Kaufman LLP, Daniel L. Vande Zande, 408 E. Main St., Waupun 53963. Spray Clean Car Wash LLC, Antonino Evola, 420 Fond du Lac St., Waupun 53963.

Outagamie County Janus Hotel Management Services LLC, Katie Beckman, 210 Westhill Blvd., Appleton 54914. Happy In Home Care LLC, Peter Nienge Thao, 513 E. Mitchell Ave., Appleton 54915. Empower Yoga LLC, Jill Gault, 109 N. Durkee St., Appleton 54911. Freshour Precision Welding & Fabrication LLC, Willie Roy Freshour, 1421 N. Division St., Appleton 54911. ForceTen Fitness LLC, Evan Paradiso, N9345 Cheyenne Dr., Appleton 54915. Fox Cities Exhibition Center Inc., Walter S. Rugland, 100 W. Lawrence St., Appleton 54911. Hospitality Employee Leasing Program Inc., Katie Beckman, 210 Westhill Blvd., Appleton 54914. Siesta Pool Construction Inc., David Greene, 3101 Apostolic Road, Appleton 54913. Telecom Insites LLC, Joanne Fischer, 4301 Silverleaf Ct., Appleton 54913. Wisconsin Retirement Solutions Inc., Jim Vanvonderen, W3028 Just About Lane, Appleton 54915.

Simpler Times Soaps LLC, Mary Putzstuck, 2308 W. Wintergreen Dr., Appleton 54914. GNC Mill LLC, Terry A. Abraham, 395 Stroebe Road, Appleton 54914. V Supply Tech LLC, Gugapriya Devanathan, 1506 Tri Park Way, #16, Appleton 54914. Home Path Management LLC, Jeffrey Kleiner, 5471 Waterford Lane, Ste. C, Appleton 54913. Elmer’s Cleaning LLC, Elmer Antonio Reyes, 1200 E. Northland Ave., Apt. 6, Appleton 54911. The Clothes Spa LLC, Christina Van Handel, 13 Century Court, Appleton 54914. Hendricks Home Inspection LLC, Todd Hendricks, N4295 Serenity Ridge Ct., Freedom 54130. Unique Interiors & Consign LLC, Kenneth Cychosz, N1829 Municipal Dr., Greenville 54942. The Real Allure Inn LLC, Judith Schulz, N1536 Skyline Dr., Greenville 54942. All Pro Design and Fab LLC, Michael Jacquot, W8357 Spring Road, Hortonville 54944. Landl Farms LLC, Robert L. Schuessler, N870 County Road GG, Kaukauna 54130. Embody Health LLC, Sarah J. Wendorf, 670 Elderberry Lane, Kaukauna 54130. Arc Storage of the Fox Valley LLC, Cathy L. Drews, 2309 Riverside Dr., Kaukauna 54130. Uptown Cuts and Tanning LLC, Stacy Wilson, 116 W. Wisconsin Ave., Kaukauna 54130.

D E S I G N . P R I N T. M A I L .

510 N. Oneida Street Appleton, WI 54911 (920) 734-9997

www.bouwerprinting.com

Kathy Peotter Vice President

Lisa Bouwer Hansen President

NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 39

WHO’S NEWS

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Kornerstone School Inc., Michael McCabe, 217 E. Kimberly Ave., Kimberly 54136. Kangaroostaurant LLC, Jay D. Barnes, 1601 Freedom Road, #16, Little Chute 54140.

Winnebago County Minimax Storage West LLC, Joel S. Johnson, 1860 Bud Dr., Ste. 105, Menasha 54952. PC Doc Mobile LLC, Jeffrey J. Carew, 944 Easy St., Menasha 54952. Eric R. Soda Agency LLC, Eric R. Soda, 1416 S. Commercial St., Neenah 54956. Fieldtorq Knives, LLC, Christopher John Stuckel, 2643 Grassy Lane, Neenah 54956. Mass Production Nutrition LLC, Andrew Ertl, 211 Lennox St., Neenah 54956. Advance Fabricating & Supply LLC, Sandra M. Scovronski, 4642 Rivermoor Road, Omro 54963. Julie Nowatske Certified Reiki Master LLC, Julie Nowatske, 2777 Leila Mae Lane, Oshkosh 54904. Carl’s Custom Heating & Cooling LLC, Carl Sosnoski, 1503 S. Main Street, Oshkosh 54902. Stuffed With Fluff LLC, Gina Lee Schmitz, 1625 White Swan Dr., Oshkosh 54901. Spring Lane Health LLC, Michael Lee Raymond, 2398 Wisconsin St., Oshkosh 54901. Ner-Equipment, LLC, James L. Nerenhausen, 3972 U.S. Highway 45 South, Oshkosh 54903. Rescue Tracks K9 Search and Recovery Inc., Thomas Szmik, 1780 Lombard Ave., #3, Oshkosh 54902. Bergeman’s Fine Jewelry LLC, Beth E. Olson, 420 N. Main St., Oshkosh 54901. Westshore Acupuncture LLC, Carol Hemauer, 60 Sunnyhill Ave., Oshkosh 54902. Scootchboo Interactive Designs LLC, Joseph R. Putzer, N9417 Sam Crest Lane, Pickett 54964.

Building Permits B2B includes a monthly list of building permits (not to include residential projects) in excess of $400,000. Dermatology Associates of Wisconsin, 2806 Riverview Dr., Howard. $857,900 for a 7,552-sq. ft. dermatology clinic. General contractor is Delsman Construction of Reedsville. January 4. Party City, 1530 S. Koeller St., Oshkosh. $550,000 for an addition to the existing retail space for a new party supply store. General contractor is Bayland Buildings Inc. of Green Bay. January 11. Corrigan’s Custom Built Structures, 421 Lawrence Dr., De Pere. $400,000 for an addition and alteration to the existing commercial building. Owner is listed as general contractor. January 17. St. Vincent Hospital, 835 S. Van Buren St., Green Bay. $646,500 for an interior alteration of 6,512 square feet of the intensive care unit. General contractor is Immel Construction 40 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

www.newnorthb2b.com

WHO’S NEWS of Green Bay. January 26. CVS Pharmacy/ Denis Real Estate Partners, 930 Main St., Green Bay. $2,000,000 for a new retail store and pharmacy. General contractor is Fred J. Piette Co. of Appleton. January 27.

New businesses DaVinci Engineering and Consulting opened at 136 Jackson St. in Oshkosh by Dave Gruenwald and Tim Bartley, a pair of mechanical engineers who hold a combined 18 U.S. patents. The firm provides services ranging from design and engineering to product planning and financing. DaVinci Engineering can be reached by calling 920.420.3273.

Kaukauna-based Milk Source Holdings, Inc. took on a long-term lease with an option to purchase Greenleaf-based Calf Source from JBS USA. Calf Source has raised about 7,500 dairy calves at a time for dairy producers in northeast Wisconsin since 2000. Calf Source raises calves until they are about six months old, at which time the calves are raised on heifer farms until returning to their home dairy at 2 years old. Express Convenience Centers is selling two of its Appleton retail outlets at 4735 Converters Dr. and at 2175 S. Memorial Dr. to Kwik Trip, Inc. The transaction is expected to be complete in mid-March.

New locations

Mergers/acquisitions Lamico, Inc. in Oshkosh, the world’s largest manufacturer of crutches, was sold to Lamico Mobility Products LLC. The acquiring firm’s owner Scott Hoffman plans to maintain its Oshkosh operations and management team, and plans to offer additional product lines including canes, walker and wheelchair accessories. Cypress Benefit Administrators of Appleton acquired Western Benefits, Inc. of Portland, Ore., a third-party benefits administrator that serves dozens of employers representing about 20,000 employees primarily located in Oregon, Washington and Alaska. Cypress plans to maintain Western Benefits’ offices and operations in the Pacific Northwest.

Bank First National opened its Fox Valley office at 101 City Center in downtown Oshkosh. The 3,200-sq. ft. office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The office can be reached by calling 920.237.5126. Maurices will open a 5,305-sq. ft. retail store at Prime Outlet Center in Oshkosh this March. Agnesian HealthCare opened an Agnesian EZ Care location at 904 W. Main St. in Waupun. Visits to EZ Care cost from $48 to $59. Bill-Ray Home Mobility – a developer of Friendly Bed products to improve mobility, comfort and safety while getting in

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NEW NORTH B2B lMARCH 2011 l 41

WHO’S NEWS and out of bed – opened a retail showroom at 3800 N. Providence Dr. in Appleton. Hours are from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Time Warner Cable opened its customer experience retail store at 133 Mall Dr. in Appleton. The 3,800-sq. ft. store showcases Time Warner’s products and services, including digital cable, HDTV, DVRs, high speed data, digital phone and mobile Internet.

Business honors Awards and honors earned by individuals are listed separately in the Who’s News section of the New North B2B. Keller, Inc. of Kaukauna received two 2010 Projects of Distinction gold awards from Associated Builders & Contractors of Wisconsin. One award was in the commercial construction category for Little Scholars New Beginnings in Stevens Point, while the other honor came in the institutional construction category for Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Hubertus.

New hires MetLife in De Pere hired Joanne H. Nguyen as a financial services representative. She has worked in the financial services industry for 10 years. Fox Valley Savings Bank in Fond du Lac hired Paula Thalacker as a mortgage consultant. Thalacker has more than 20 years of mortgage lending experience, most recently as the retail lending branch manager with AmericaHomeKey, Inc.

Nguyen

Thalacker

42 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

Magee

Moraine Park Technical College hired Claude Magee as its student support services grant activity associate. Magee previously served as director of the TRIO Student Support Services program at Lake Land College in Mattoon, Ill. The University of Wisconsin-Fox Valley hired Pao Lor, Ph.D., as its soccer coach for the Cyclones. Lor previously coached several high school and club teams across northeast Wisconsin. Lor is also an associate professor of education at UW-Green Bay. Hermes Law, Ltd. in Green Bay hired Ericka Krumrie as an attorney. Krumrie’s practice areas include business and civil litigation, environmental litigation, debt collection litigation, and pre-litigation risk assessment. Unitel, Inc. in Appleton hired Krystle Romanowicz as an administrative assistant and a customer service representative, and Terry Toraason as a sales representative. Toraason has 21 years of experience in the telecommunications industry and has worked for companies such as MCI, Executone, CTI and Convergent Solutions. Ellipse Fitness in Appleton hired Linda Webster as its fitness director. Webster has 18 years experience as a personal trainer and holds 14 fitness certifications including personal training, yoga, pilates, power cycling and kickboxing. Goodwill Industries of North Central Wisconsin hired Jackie Zolp, CPA, as the site coordinator for its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program; Jason Clark as a PC/network

Lor

Krumrie

Slagter

www.newnorthb2b.com

WHO’S NEWS technician; and Matthew Kadlec as a financial counselor for Goodwill’s Financial Information and Service Center. Zolp previously worked for a Green Bay public accounting firm as an accountant. Clark previously worked as a technology support specialist at TEKsystems/Thrivent Financial. DiRenzo & Bomier, LLC of Neenah hired Todd Slagter as an associate attorney. He will be involved in estate planning, probate and trust administration, taxation, elder law and real estate issues for clients. Slagter previously worked for an Oshkosh law firm where he focused on estate planning, taxation, probate and trust administration and elder law. HiTech Control Systems, Inc. in Neenah and Green Bay hired Neil Brandon as a design engineer. Brandon specializes in design services related to machine control, programmable controllers, HMI systems, conveyors, robotics and installation. ThedaCare Physicians added Kristi King, MD, and Jennifer Weiland, MD, as family practice physicians. Dr. King practices at ThedaCare Physicians-Appleton West and Dr. Weiland sees patients at ThedaCare Physicians-North, located at Encircle Health in Appleton. Dr. Weiland has a special interest in obstetrics, women’s health, pediatrics, adolescent medicine and preventative care. Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP hired Alexandra Wallace, Tom Whalen and Tej Vaishnav as staff accountants in its Appleton office. Andrew Keogh was named interim campus executive officer and dean at the University of Wisconsin-Fox Valley in Menasha. Keogh had been CEO/dean of UW-Wood County in Marshfield for eight years until his retirement in 2010. He will serve in the interim role until a permanent CEO/dean is chosen for UWFox. The Oshkosh Area Community Foundation hired Mary

Brandon

Beth Kelly as its education coordinator, a newly created position focused on the overall management of education funds and scholarships. Kelly works with area high schools and colleges to make students aware of scholarships and oversee the selection and grant process. She also works with education foundations in Omro, Winneconne, Green Lake, Ripon and Oshkosh, as well as with donors of scholarship funds. Kelly previously worked as an advocate for Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services Inc. in Oshkosh. Lutheran Homes of Oshkosh hired Andrea Ohman as its administrator/Green House guide and Deanna Tapplin as its director of nursing for the new Eden Rehabilitation Suites and Green House Homes. Ohman previously served as an assistant administrator of a skilled care facility in Arizona and as the administrator of a rehabilitation facility in California. Tapplin began her career as a certified nursing assistant and has 16 years of long-term care nursing experience, with her last eight years serving as a director of nursing. Belville-Fletcher Chiropractic Office hired Dr. Brandon M. Fletcher as a chiropractor at its Koeller Street location in Oshkosh. Flyway Signs & Lighting Service in Fond du Lac hired Michael J. Lewis as a senior sign consultant. Lewis is experienced in sales, design consulting and installation in the sign and lighting service business, having previously worked for a Milwaukee-based sign and lighting company. Carl M. Hennig Inc., an Oshkosh-based investment securities firm, hired Ellis Bosveld, Steven Seidl and Jonathan Canter as brokers.

Promotions Fox Valley Savings Bank in Fond du Lac promoted Derek Drews, Kathy Nachtwey, Jessica Pickett and Kirsten Quam to assistant vice presidents. Drews joined the bank as a mort-

King

Weiland

Wallace

Whalen

Keogh

Kelly

Fletcher

Lewis

Vaishnav

NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 43

WHO’S NEWS gage loan officer in 2008 and currently manages the Waupun office. Nachtwey is the bank’s compliance officer and has served in various capacities during her 23-year career with Fox Valley Savings. Pickett joined the bank in 1997 and is responsible for deposit operations and the retail banking division in Fond du Lac. Quam joined the bank in 2006 and manages the bank’s marketing division.

- administrative, employment, business and commercial law, personal injury, malpractice, general civil litigation and appeals; Rachel Fitzgerald - Social Security disability and workers’ compensation; Kathleen Healy - family and employment law and general civil litigation; and Meghan Healy - family and employment law, divorce, guardian ad litem and workers’ compensation.

Goodwill Industries of North Central Wisconsin promoted Christina Loch to assistant team leader at its Green Bay West retail store; Andrea Granditzke to area team leader at its Menasha retail store; and promoted Kathy Laird to intake specialist for its new Fox Valley Tech Financial Information and Service Center team. Loch has been with Goodwill since 2002 and previously was an area team leader overseeing apparel at the Ashwaubenon store. Granditzke had been a sales associate at the Oshkosh store since 2009. Laird has been with the Menasha FISC team since 2009 as a senior aide.

Lutheran Homes of Oshkosh promoted Kris Krentz to vice president of healthcare services and Steve Komp to vice president of housing and community services. Krentz has served as the administrator for Bethel Home and Elijah’s place since 2004. Komp has been with Lutheran Homes of Oshkosh since 2008.

DiRenzo & Bomier, LLC in Neenah promoted four attorneys from associate to partner, including: Jeffrey Berzowski

Advertiser’s Index Aspen Coffee & Tea www.aspencoffee-tea.com. ................................ 36 Bank First National www.bankfirstnational.com.................................. 29 Better Business Bureau www.wisconsin.bbb.org............................... 37 Bouwer Printing and Mailing www.bouwerprintingandmailing.com.......... 39 CitizensFirst Credit Union www.citizensfirst.com . ............................ 24 Davis & Kuelthau, s.c. www.dkattorneys.com..................................... 5 Dental Associates www.careplusdentalplans.com............................... 46 Epiphany Law www.epiphanylaw.com. ............................................ 48 Fast Signs www.fastsigns.com....................................................... 30 First Business Bank www.firstbusiness.com. .................................... 41 First National Bank ~ Fox Valley www.fnbfoxvalley.com. ................... 22 Guident Business Solutions www.guidentbusinesssolutions.com............ 40 Horicon Bank www.horiconbank.com. ............................................. 39 Jack Russell Apps www.jackrussellapps.com.................................... 35 J. F. Ahern Co. www.jfahern.com. ................................................. 14 Keller Inc. www.kellerbuilds.com ................................................... 34 Moraine Park Technical College www.morainepark.edu..................... 27 National Exchange Bank & Trust www.nebat.com............................. 2 Network Health Plan www.networkhealth.com . ................................ 47 Nsight www.nsighttel.com............................................................... 9 Organization Development Consultants Inc. www.od-consultants.com.36 Outagamie County Regional Airport www.atwairport.com. .... 15, 28, 42 Sadoff & Rudoy Industries www.sadoff.com................................... 12 Stifel, Nicolaus & Co. www.stifel.com . ......................................... 21 Stolley Studio www.stolleystudio.com.............................................. 23 TEC www.tecmidwest.com. ............................................................ 31 The Boldt Company www.theboldtcompany.com................................ 29 TK Commercial Investments, LLC www.loopnet.com....................... 40 UWO College of Business www.uwosh.edu/cob/graduate/info................ 11 WEA Trust www.weatrust.com. ...................................................... 37 Winnebago County Solid Waste Mgmt. www.co.winnebago.wi.us/solid-waste/container-rental-program. ....................... 8 Department of Transportation www.dot.state.wi.us........................... 16 44 l NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011

Individual honors Andy Rinke, instructor in Fox Valley Technical College’s automotive technologies program, earned World Class Technician recognition from General Motors. Rinke is one of a few individuals in Wisconsin to reach this level of GM technical certification. Bonita Graff, an independent financial advisor at Provident Financial Consultants LLC in Oshkosh, was named to the LPL Financial Chairman’s Club. The recognition is based on a ranking of all registered advisors supported by LPL Financial LLC, and is awarded to less than 6 percent of the firm’s more than 12,000 advisors nationwide.

Elections/appointments The Insulation Contractors Association of Northern Wisconsin and Upper Michigan elected Jim Bartelt of Bartelt Insulation Supply Inc. in Appleton as its president for 2011 and elected Scott Berken of Sprinkmann Sons Corp. in Wrightstown as its vice president. The Mechanical Contractors Association of North Central Wisconsin elected Mark Loper of Azco Inc. in Appleton its president for 2011 and elected Richard Bushey of Mechanical Technologies Inc. in Green Bay as its vice president. The group also elected the following board members: Kimberly BassettHeitzmann, Bassett Mechanical in Kaukauna; James Beno, Beno Plumbing in Green Bay; Mark Eimmerman, August Winter & Sons Inc. in Appleton; Robert Fischer, J. F. Ahern Co. in Fond du Lac; Dean Reinke, Hurckman Mechanical Industries Inc. in Green Bay; Michael Sturdivant, Tweet/Garot Mechanical Inc. in Green Bay; and Donald Tennie, E.G.I. Mechanical in Seymour.

Business calendar New North B2B encourages businesses and organizations looking to attract interested persons to upcoming events to send an announcement to: New North B2B, Attn: Who’s News, P.O. Box 559, Oshkosh, WI 54903. For more events, log on to www.thenewnorthevents.com. March 2 Fond du Lac Area Association of Commerce Coffee Connec-

www.newnorthb2b.com

BUSINESS CALENDAR tion, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at Cujak’s Wine Market & Wine Bar, 47 N. Main St. in Fond du Lac. Cost to attend is $2. For more information or to register, call the AC at 920.921.9500 or go online to www.fdlac.com. March 2 Green Bay Business Expo, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at KI Convention Center, 333 Main St. in Green Bay. No cost to attend. For more information, contact Marilyn at members@titletown.org or call 920.593.3419. March 8 Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce Sales Club, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at the chamber building, 120 Jackson St. in Oshkosh. No cost to attend for chamber members. For more information or to register, call 920.303.2265. March 10 Women in Management - Oshkosh chapter monthly meeting, 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. at La Sure’s Banquet Hall, 3125 S. Washburn St. in Oshkosh. Program will be Professional Women’s Attire and Make-up on a Budget presented by Macy’s. For more information or to register, go online to www.wimiwi.org or contact Nicole at braytonbb@ntd.net or 920.267.0300. March 16 “Errors and Mistakes in Your Workers’ Comp are Costing You Money,” a no-cost seminar presented by Ansay & Associates Insurance Agency in Little Chute, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Heart of the Valley Chamber of Commerce, 101 E. Wisconsin Ave. in Kaukauna. While the seminar is free, registration is required by calling Steve at 920.370.4263. March 16 Heart of the Valley Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours, 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Mid-Vallee Golf Couse, 3850 Mid Valley Dr. in De Pere. For more information or to register, call 920.766.1616 or online at www.heartofthevalleychamber.com. March 22 “What is your Everest? Climb by Faith, Not by Sight,” a program presented by Excellence in Leadership, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oshkosh Convention Center, 2 N. Main St. in Oshkosh. Presenter Eric Alexander – a skier, climber and mountaineer – will explain how he has gained inspiration as he continues to climb and look for new challenges. Cost to attend is $35 per person or $250 for a table of eight and includes lunch. For more information or to register, go online to www.eilgroup.org. March 31 “Boost Your Workplace Connections,” an event through Current, the Green Bay area young professionals group, 7:30 to 11 a.m. at The Marq, 3177 French Road in De Pere. Keynote speaker Steve Ward, a relationship and lifestyle expert, will explain the importance of work relationships and how instrumental they will be for having a prosperous business and a successful career. Cost to attend is $49 and includes breakfast. For more information or to register, go online to http:// woodwardradioevents.com/blend, call 920.593.3797 or email

jpietras@wcinet.com. April 5 “Generational Differences in the Workplace,” a presentation through the Heart of the Valley Chamber of Commerce Business Over Breakfast series, 7:30 to 9 a.m. at the chamber office, 101 E. Wisconsin Ave. in Kaukauna. Speaker is Diane Welhouse of Welhouse Construction. For more information or to register, call 920.766.1616 or go online to www.heartofthevalleychamber.com. April 6 Health Care Career Fair, 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Fox Valley Technical College, 1825 N. Bluemound Dr. in Appleton. For more details on having a booth at the event, contact Sarah at 920.424.2181 or email krihas@uwosh.edu. April 7 Heart of the Valley Business After Hours, 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at The Marq, 3177 French Road in De Pere. For more information or to register, call 920.766.1616 or go online to www.heartofthevalleychamber.com.

Better Business Bureau - New Members Businesses accredited through the Northeast Wisconsin office during January 2011

1st Choice Restoration Services LLC, Luxemburg A B Seamless, St. Cloud Action Auto Service, Kaukauna All Temperature Systems Inc., Waupaca Biewer & Associates, Oakfield Carpet Warehouse Inc., Oshkosh Consolidated Builders, Appleton Cruise Planners, Fond du Lac Custom Components & Structures, De Pere Dreamland Vacation Rentals, Brussels DuFrane Painting Co. LLC, Kimberly Everbreeze Resort LLC, Mountain Fabel Repair & Collision Center, Appleton Flowtek LLC, Sheboygan Four Seasons Roofing & Remodeling LLC, Menasha Haak Heating Inc., Appleton Harold O. Binder Accounting LLC, Plymouth Hometown Veterinary Clinic LLC, Oconto Falls Joe’s Collision & Restoration LLC, Greenville Joe’s Hardwood Floors, Kaukauna Kabat Financial Services Inc., Brillion Kidz Town Inc., Green Bay Land Pride Property Ltd., Oshkosh Lectro Truck, Oostburg Lierman Construction, Oconto Falls Mosquito Creek LLC, Appleton Mueller’s Woodville Kennels Inc., Hilbert Orin J. Peterson Sons Inc., Freedom Planeview Travel Plaza, Oshkosh Purely Poultry LLC, Fremont St. Clare Heirloom Seeds, Gillett Valley Organics Lawn Care, Larsen Van Vonderen Estate Planning LLC, Kimberly

NEW NORTH B2B l MARCH 2011 l 45

KEY STATISTICS Per gallon of regular unleaded gasoline.

$3.20 February 13 $3.12 February 6 $3.12 January 30 $3.10 Feb. 20, 2010 $2.59 February 20

Source: New North B2B observations

January

596,000

14.6%

from December

2.6%

from January 2010 January

1.5%

January

$381.6 billion

0.3%

from December

7.8%

from January 2010

8.2% 8.0% 9.6% 8.8% 6.4% 7.0%

8.4% 8.4% 9.1% 6.8% 7.1% 9.9%

10.2% 10.6% 11.2% 10.3% 8.0% 8.3%

Prices for small businesses using less than 20,000 therms. Listed price is per therm.

(2007 = 100)

January

95.1

February $0.933

0.1%

January

from December

Feb. ‘10

5.2%

from January 2010

$0.881 $0.971

Source: Integrys Energy

(Manufacturers and trade)

(Numbers above 50 mean expansion. Numbers below 50 mean contraction.)

December

$1,435 billion

0.8%

from December

from November

from January 2010

from December 2009

5.3%

December Nov. Dec. ‘09

Appleton Fond du Lac Green Bay Neenah Oshkosh Wisconsin

January December

8.0%

60.8 58.5

If there are indicators you’d like to see in this space, contact our office at 920.237.0254 or email info@newnorthb2b.com.

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