02.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN
upcoming EVENTS \\ MAXimize Your Membership Wednesday, February 5, 2014 \\ 8:00 am - 9:00 am Portage County Business Council, Foundation Room 5501 Vern Holmes Drive | Stevens Point, WI 54482
» REGISTER
Small Business X-Change Wednesday, February 12, 2014 \\ 7:30 am - 8:30 am Portage County Business Council, Foundation Room 5501 Vern Holmes Drive | Stevens Point, WI 54482
» REGISTER
Business After Hours Monday, February 17, 2014 \\ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Flexible Fitness Solutions, Flexible Nutrition Solutions, Stevens Point Curling Club & USA Curling 5501 E. M. Copps Drive | Stevens Point, WI 54482
» REGISTER SalesNet
Thursday, February 20, 2014 \\ 11:45am - 1:00 pm Portage County Business Council, Foundation Room 5501 Vern Holmes Drive | Stevens Point, WI 54482
» REGISTER
American Agriculture Appreciation Banquet
IN THIS ISSUE \\ BUSINESS COUNCIL HONORS AREA FIRMS & INDIVIDUALS AT ANNUAL DINNER (6-7) 2013 STATS + FACTS (11) DON’T MISS OUR FIRST EVER WOMEN IN BUSINESS FASHION SHOW (1) GOLDEN APPLE AWARD NOMINATIONS BEING ACCEPTED (5) SMALL BUSINESS X-CHANGE OPPORTUNITIES (3) AGRI-BUSINESS SCHOLARSHIPS TO AWARD $1,000 - APPLY NOW! (8) SMALL BUSINESS X-CHANGE (2) BUSINESS BRIEFS (2) AMERICAN AGRICULTURE APPRECIATION BANQUET (3) BUSINESS AFTER HOURS (3) NEW MEMBERS (4) MEMBER OF THE MONTH - ABEL COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION (4) LEADERSHIP PORTAGE COUNTY JANUARY SESSION SUMMARY (5) THANK YOU TO SPONSORS AND SILENT AUCTION CONTRIBUTORS (8) ADVANCING WI. MANUFACTURING - DISCOUNT COST FOR PCBC MEMBERS! (9-10) BUSINESS DAY IN MADISON 2014 (12)
Monday, March 10, 2014 \\ 6:00 pm - 8:45 pm site to be announced
» REGISTER
*If you’re reading this as a pdf online, click an article title above to jump directly to that page.
DON’T MISS OUR FIRST EVER WOMEN IN BUSINESS FASHION SHOW ON THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 2014! » CLICK HERE TO REGISTER PRESENTED BY
11:15AM to 1:00PM Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center 1001 Amber Avenue, Stevens Point
You won’t want to miss this Women in Business Luncheon and Fashion Show! Treat yourself to see the unique selection of clothing, accessories and one-of-a-kind pieces by Girls in Pearls Boutique. We will see what’s chic on the streets and trends to watch out for this season. Watch for more information in our March newsletter edition. For questions contact Karen Schanock at 715/344-1940 or kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com.
SAVE THE DATES of future Women in Business Luncheons: • Thursday, June 26, 2014 Presented by Wisconsin Public Service Corporation • Thursday, September 25, 2014 Presented by Ministry Health Care • Thursday, December 11, 2014 Presented by CliftonLarsonAllen LLP
SMALL BUSINESS X-CHANGE 2.12.14 \\ 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM PCBC FOUNDATION ROOM
ABOUT OUR SPONSOR
» REGISTER > Continental Breakfast served > No cost to attend but the value of the information may be priceless!
SPONSOR
Schulfer & Associates, LLC Financial Professionals is an independent firm, aligned with LPL Financial. With one of the largest and most experienced research groups among independent firms, we offer true, unbiased opinions, meaning we have no proprietary products to sell, no “parent company” ownership, no investment banking or insurance company relationships to promote, nor any other conflicts to get in the way of true, independent and unbiased information.
PRESENTED BY
LouAnn Schulfer, AWMA®, AIF® Accredited Wealth Management Advisor® Accredited Investment Fiduciary® Co-Owner of Schulfer & Associates, LLC Financial Professionals To help you plan for what lies ahead, Schulfer & At this X-Change participants will learn: Associates will bring you their Outlook 2014: The -Timely, relevant information to the economy and financial markets, applicable Investor’s Almanac. Like the Farmer’s Almanac, which to our personal and business lives. has been a guide and source of wisdom for American -Schulfer & Associates view of what 2014 is likely to bring forth for the growers for over 200 years, their Investors Almanac economy and investors, and why. seeks to provide a trusted guide for the coming year, filled with a wealth of -“Take Away’s” - suggested “to do” points. wisdom for investors. Join us for this presentation delivered in a fun and easy to To help you plan for what lies ahead, Schulfer & Associates will bring you their follow theme, backed by solid research, data, charts and graphs. Outlook 2014: The Investor’s Almanac. Like the Farmer’s Almanac, which has been a guide and source of wisdom for American growers for over 200 years, The X-Change is a roundtable presentation which allows small business owners their Investors Almanac seeks to provide a trusted guide for the coming year, and their employees the opportunity to discuss pertinent topics, learn from filled with a wealth of wisdom for investors. Join us for this presentation local industry leaders and, most importantly, learn from each other. Small delivered in a fun and easy to follow theme, backed by solid research, data, Business X-Change meets regularly throughout the year from 7:30 - 8:30am at charts and graphs. the Portage County Business Council office.
TOPIC: “OUTLOOK 2014: THE INVESTOR’S ALMANAC”
ABOUT SMALL BUSINESS X-CHANGE
Business Briefs column is an avenue to spotlight noteworthy business and professional accomplishments, recognition and awards among our Business business BRIEFS \\ The Council members. Submit items of interest, in 100 words or less, to: admin@portagecountybiz.com by the 24 of the month prior to the next newsletter issue. th
WoodTrust Bank, a leading provider of banking, trust and investment services in central and northern Wisconsin, is pleased to announce the appointment of Lon E. Roberts to its board of directors.
The package of bills is called, “H.O.P.E.” or Heroin Opiate Prevention and Education. The four pieces of legislation address the problem before it happens and after abuse has occurred. \\
Mr. Roberts is a partner and shareholder with the Ruder Ware law firm in Wausau, WI, where he concentrates his practice in business and commercial law, specializing in the areas of corporate mergers and acquisitions, finance, lending and private equity capital transactions. “Lon brings tremendous business, legal and financial experience to WoodTrust’s already outstanding Board,” said Steve Bell, WoodTrust Chairman and CEO. “We look forward to his guidance and advice for many years to come.” \\
CAP Services conducted a street count of individuals experiencing homelessness in Portage County on the night of January 29, 2014.
Rep. Krug (R) co-author of Assembly Bill 446 voted for a package of bills that take a multipronged approach to address the heroin epidemic in Wisconsin. “Heroin is a dangerously addictive drug,” said Rep. Krug. “Unfortunately, heroin abuse and heroin-related crimes are increasing at an amazing rate across Wisconsin. This isn’t just in our cities, our rural areas are just as hard hit, today we took important first steps to slow down this frightening problem.”
02
CAP Services staff and volunteers began the count at around 9 p.m. The count is part of the 2014 Point-In-Time Count coordinated by the Wisconsin Balance of State Continuum of Care as required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Point-in-Time Count is conducted in the state of Wisconsin twice each year – in January and July – to show a snap shot of homelessness in the state. The Point-in-Time count from July 2013 found a total of 50 individuals – including 17 children – experiencing homelessness in Portage County. \\ We are proud to announce that Tina Grezinski of Exceling Your Business, LLC has earned the Microsoft Office Certification for Office Excel 2010. Tina is an adjunct teacher of Excel for Rasmussen College and has 20+ years’ experience in accounting in both manufacturing and small office settings. While either training employees
THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER
to increase their knowledge and efficiency or consulting with employees on a project to develop process improvements to save time, improve data accuracy, and produce better solutions to a problem is Tina’s passion. Don’t work harder – work smarter, Excel can do more than you think! Remember, small changes = BIG RESULTS. \\ Keller, Planners, Architects and Builders, a design/build general contractor with offices Wausau, Madison, Milwaukee and the Fox Cities, will remodel Achieve Center under the direction of Keller Project Managers, Vern Nystrom and Darrin Braun. Achieve Center is a non-profit organization that offers mental health and learning services for children and families including autism programs, behavioral therapy, and marriage and family therapy. The vision of Achieve Center is to maximize the potential of children and families to achieve contentment and fulfillment in personal and relationship goals and to provide a resource for accurately assessing and treating the roadblocks to learning that hinder growth and development. \\
AMERICAN AGRICULTURE APPRECIATION BANQUET MONDAY, MARCH 10, 2014 » CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
The Agri-Business Committee of the Portage County Business Council invites Business Council members and their guests to the 2014 American Agriculture Appreciation Banquet on Monday, March 10th. We will recognize several individuals who have contributed to the success of agri-business in Portage County. Area students will be recognized in the area of both 4-H and FFA, Agri-Business Scholarships and the 2014 Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture Award will be presented during the program. For reservations click above or contact the Business Council office at (715)344-1940. Be Sure To Attend! 6:00-7:00PM – Social 7:00-8:15PM – Dinner & Keynote 8:15-8:45PM – Awards
SMALL BUSINESS X-CHANGE OPPORTUNITIES Are you or someone else from your business
MONDAY, MARCHat10, interested in speaking one 2014 of our upcoming X-Changes?
Business Council members are invited to submit workshop proposals to be considered for presentation at our monthly 2014 Small Business X-Change Programs. This is a great opportunity to share new initiatives and proven practices with others in the Central Wisconsin business community. It allows you to highlight your business and the work you do. All workshops are offered free-of-charge to Portage County Business Council members; no honorariums are paid. Proposals must include the following: • Workshop title •Workshop description (a brief outline of what will be covered during the presentation) • Three or four key points that the participant will learn as a result of attending • Presenter name, title and relevant background • Relevant training experience Benefits of Presentation and Sponsorship: • Company recognition as Presenting Sponsor of X-Change • Company name, program outline and logo in Business Council newsletter • Company logo displayed on Small Business XChange webpage (including a “link” to company website) – prominent location • Company name and logo in emails to over 1500 member contacts announcing event • Electronic registration list of attendees • Net result of better awareness of what you and your company could do for a potential client • Survey results after the presentation Expectations: • $50 Sponsorship fee • 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. workshop should be one hour in length (includes introduction and Q&A) • Speaking topics could include any myriad of topics especially relevant to a small business that will facilitate improving management, coping with the economic environment, etc. It’s really a wide open field.
Presenters are advised not to use their presentation as a platform or commercial for promotion of their products and services or for monetary gain. • Handouts, copies of Power Points, etc. are expected and are the responsibility of the presenter/ company sponsor • Equipment/Office Supplies available for use include: Projector, Overhead Screen, Podium, Dry Erase Board/markers and Flip Cart/Paper. WiFi is also available. Please note, laptops are not provided. • A light morning snack will be available including coffee, juice, water, fresh fruits, some danish, etc.
2013 American Agriculture Appreciate Banquet
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 2.17.14 \\ 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM » REGISTER » MAP HOSTS\
All Small Business X-Change programs are held at the Portage County Business Council office conference room. The current available dates are the following: March 12th – RESERVED by Tina Grezinski from Exceling Your Business LLC April 9th May 14th June 11th – RESERVED by Kelly Greig from Merrill Lynch July 9th August 13th September 10th – RESERVED by Richard Blue from FirstMerit Bank October 8th November 12th December 10th Written proposals are due by February 28, 2014. Email preferred. If approved, the presentation will be reviewed in advance. The usual attendance is 20-25; an estimate number of participants will be provided at least 24-hours prior to the date of the presentation. Please submit proposals in writing to: Karen Schanock, Portage County Business Council, 5501 Vern Holmes Drive, Stevens Point, WI 54482. FAX: 715-344-4473. E-mail: kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com, Ph: 715-344-1940. Thank you for your consideration.
Location of Event: Flexible Fitness Solutions & Flexible Nutrition Solutions 5501 E.M. Copps Drive (located on the north end of the Portage County Business Park) Stevens Point, WI 54482 Enjoy complimentary hor d’oeuvres, refreshments, and door prize giveaways. No Cost to attend! Pre-registration is appreciated. Please RSVP by Friday, February 14, 2014.
02.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN
03
a bit about OUR NEWEST MEMBERS \\ SIGN PRO
member of the MONTH
Each month the Active Voice features a PCBC “Member of the Month” selected from a list of members that begins with the same letter of the alphabet. February features a business that begins with the letter “A”.
ABEL COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION
KURT CHECK Plover \\ 715-341-7446 \\ http://www.341sign.com\\ sales@341sign.com \\ Join Date \\ 12/30/13
MERRILL LYNCH KELLY GREIG Green Bay \\ 920-433-6567 \\ http://www.ml.com\\ kelly.greig@ml.com \\ Join Date \\ 1/2/2014
DAUBERT LAW FIRM, LLC BRIAN ABITZ Wausau \\ 715-845-1805 \\ http://www.daublaw.com\\ mas@daublaw.com \\ Join Date \\ 1/17/2014
4520 River Drive \\ Plover, WI (715) 321-3149 \\ http://www.abelcomplete.com \\ tyler2126@gmail.com \\ Join Date \\ 02/15/2013
What they have to say \\ Abel Complete Construction LLC, Is a local family owned, full service general contractor. We serve Central Wisconsin and the Fox Valley. Abel Complete Construction is owned by Tyler Abel. Tyler’s 15+ years of experience in commercial and residential construction coupled with a desire to provide customers with true craftsmanship led to the creation of ACC in 2012. Our wide range of services include the design and construction of new homes, additions, full interior remodeling, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, and exterior home improvements. We built the core of our company around commercial construction and remodeling, and offer a quick and economical option for commercial build-outs. Commercial or residential there is no job too big or small!
Businesses can use their website login to: -post job openings* -create, post, and register for events -manage account -view member directory -post hot deals Did you forget your username and/or password to login on our website? Call our office or email us at admin@portagecountybiz.com and we will get it for you! Remember, all of these services are free as part of your membership dues. The more services you use, the more value you get out of your membership! We want you to get the most out of your membership. Please call us at 715-344-1940 if you have any questions. member job postings are also posted to the PCBC facebook and twitter page, for free. *
DO YOU KNOW A LOCAL BUSINESS THAT WOULD BENEFIT FROM MEMBERSHIP?
ACC is a company that is “With the Times” We take all new construction standards seriously and continually invest in training and education on energy efficiency, green building, and many other growing trends. We are dedicated to providing you excellent customer service and exceptional quality and detail of workmanship. Our goal is to go above and beyond your expectations for a truly remarkable experience. As a newer company in the area, the Portage County Business Council has offered us networking and visibility to the community. One of our top priorities at ACC is building lasting relationships with customers, making the Portage County Business Council a good match for us.
CONTACT Mary Jo Monday 715-344-1940 \\ mmonday@portagecountybiz.com
04
THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER
GOLDEN APPLE AWARD NOMINATIONS BEING ACCEPTED » CLICK HERE FOR NOMINATION FORM
The Golden Apple Awards, seeks to honor innovative educators who incorporate community and business collaborations in their classroom. The Golden Apple winners will be honored in May 2014. Each recipient will receive a cash award to be used toward their innovative techniques in their classrooms. Lori Jones, a 2013 Recipient wrote the following: “Dear Portage County Business Council Foundation, I was a lucky recipient of a Golden Apple last May. …I am a special education teacher for students with cognitive disabilities. I always encourage students to be fit and active. With the money I purchased two bikes – one is a small adult-sized tricycle and the other is a young adult sized recumbent bike. They can be ridden inside or out on the playground. Thank you so much for helping me to purchase these bikes for my students!” To nominate a teacher or counselor deserving of a Golden Apple Award, click above or contact Bill Christiansen at fdn@portagecountybiz.com for a nomination form. Nomination forms are due March 1, 2014. Let our great educators know that their efforts are appreciated and worthy of recognition.
LEADERSHIP PORTAGE COUNTY TURNS ITS ATTENTION TO THE LEGAL SYSTEM IN THE JANUARY SESSION
Are you looking to develop your PUBLIC SPEAKING, PRESENTATION & LISTENING skills? Stevens Point Toastmaster’s can help!
Register for SPEECHCRAFT and learn to be a more confident speaker in a friendly atmosphere.
7:00pm – 8:30pm Thursday Evenings March 6 – April 10 Port Portage County Business Council 5501 Vern Holmes Dr. Stevens Point To learn more contact Tammy @ 715-321-1751
$30
2014 PLATINUM PIE INVESTORS
Leadership Portage County met for their seventh session on January 16th at the County Annex Building. The leadership topics for the day were ‘The Appropriate Use of Persuasion in Leadership and ‘Business Etiquette in Public Speaking”, with a community focus on the ‘the legal system in Portage County.’ Special thanks to our guest presenters, Cade Spaulding, Mary Jo Monday, the Honorable John Finn, Trish Baker, Kurt Helminiak, Ron Carlson and Jamie Keiner. We also want to thank Mark Patrick from Notable Impressions for sponsoring the session.
Cade Spaulding from UWSP teaches about persuasion and leadership.
For more information about becoming a part of this program, contact Bill Christiansen, Director of Foundation at fdn@portagecountybiz.com.
Lunch at the Law Enforcement Center followed by a tour of the jail.
Clerk of Courts, Trish Baker helps LPC understand the legal system.
02.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN
05
BUSINESS COUNCIL HONORS AREA FIRMS & INDIVIDUALS AT ANNUAL DINNER » CLICK HERE FOR MORE PHOTOS OF THE ANNUAL DINNER ON FACEBOOK
Two Portage County businesses and two leaders in our county’s business community were singled out for honors on Tuesday, January 28, 2014 at the Portage County Business Council Annual Dinner.
PRESIDENT’S AWARD
Each year the outgoing President of the Business Council is given the opportunity to select someone to receive the President’s Award. This award is presented to someone who through their outstanding commitment to volunteerism makes significant improvements and enhancements to the quality of life here in Portage County and demonstrates a spirit of cooperation and commitment to the Portage County Business Council, the Portage County Business Community and Economic Development of the area. This year’s award was presented to Sue Wille from Ligman & Wille CPA LLC. Sue and her company have actively supported and sponsored numerous programs on behalf of the Portage County Business Council and the community at large. Sue has been an active community leader and is highly respected by the major business leaders of our county. This respect for her leadership is equally supported by the municipalities as she has worked hard to find opportunities for us to work as a team in support of the future growth and expansion of businesses for our community. Sue moved to Portage County in 1984 when her and her husband Ron purchased a dairy farm near Junction City. Sue has more than 30 years of experience in public accounting and over 35 years in tax preparation services. She worked for the CPA firm Cavanaugh Ligman from 1985 to 2001 when Ligman & Wille CPA, LLC was formed, a partnership between Ron Ligman and Sue Wille. At Ligman & Wille CPA, LLC, Sue focuses on individual and small business accounting services, including tax preparation, financial statements, payroll, and business advisory services. Ligman & Wille CPA, LLC volunteers as an accounting advisor to the staff of the Wisconsin Lions Foundation. Sue and Ron Ligman also received the Henry Check Volunteer Service Award for service as a financial consultant. Sue’s community involvement over the years has included dedication to the Portage County Business Council and the Business Council Foundation, serving on the Board of Directors, Executive Board and as Secretary/Treasurer since 2010. She also was Secretary/Treasurer of the Portage County Holstein Breeders Association for over 10 years and has been a member of the Portage County June Dairy Day Committee since 1990. Sue and husband Ron also hosted the June Dairy Day event for Portage County in 1990. Sue and Ligman & Wille CPA have been a true partner in growing Portage County. We are pleased to have Sue and her family choose Portage County as the place to ‘make a difference’….because indeed, she has!!! Congratulations Sue!
DECREE OF EXCELLENCE AWARD
The Decree of Excellence Award was presented to a business contributing to the economic vitality of Portage County – Sentry Insurance! Award criteria includes: -Making capital improvements -Significant growth and development -Increasing employment base -Planning and implementing special marketing campaigns -Making significant community service contributions Sentry Insurance, which does business throughout the country, has a dramatic impact on the area through its large, educated employee base and through its sustained, substantial commitment to the community. We cannot imagine Portage County without Sentry Insurance. And, although the company does not seek out thanks, it is more than time for us to extend this award in recognition and in appreciation. Founded in 1904 as the Hardware Mutual Fire Insurance Company, Sentry has made its home in Stevens Point for more than 100 years. Today, Sentry is one of the nation’s largest and financially strongest mutual insurance companies in the United States, ranking among the top 50 US property and casualty insurers. Sentry places at 777 on the Fortune 1000 list of all companies of any kind. Sentry writes insurance in all 50 states, and serving more than 1 million customers, writing insurance that ranges from individual cars and motorcycles…to businesses of all sizes including a “who’s who” of Fortune 1000 corporate clients. Sentry also insures individual life, group life, group dental and provides 401k programs for businesses across the country. Sentry employs over 4,000 people across the country, including over 2,200 in its three locations in Stevens Point. More than 650 Sentry retirees also continue to live in the Portage County area. But as large and successful as Sentry has become, it’s never lost its hometown focus and is more committed to Stevens Point and Portage County than ever before. Sentry associates contribute substantial funds and countless hours to local educational, community service and cultural organizations including the Portage County Business Council, area schools, Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra, the YMCA, Boys and Girls Club, the Children’s Museum and Portage County Literacy Council. Sentry is also the largest contributor to the United Way of Portage County. Education is a primary focus of the Sentry Insurance Foundation. Over the past five years, the Sentry Foundation has worked with public and private schools to integrate the use of technology in the classroom. The Stevens Point Technology Initiative has invested $6 million to upgrade technology, computers and software in area junior and senior high classrooms. Congratulations to Sentry Insurance!
06
THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER
AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR
The Portage County Business Council has named Dorothy Pientka as Ambassador of the Year. Dorothy has been active in the Ambassador Club since 1992, and has been honored with the Ambassador of the Year Award twelve times. That alone is an example of what type of leader and volunteer we have! Dorothy’s enthusiasm and dedication towards volunteering for the Business Council is outstanding! She has accumulated the most points during the year by attending business events such as ribbon cuttings, grand openings, ground breaking ceremonies, Business After Hours and many other events, including visits to new and existing businesses, monthly meetings, and she has served as Past President and Chairperson of many committees. Dorothy is Vice President of Community First Bank. She started at the bank in 1985 serving in role as Security Officer, Retail Lending and Retail Deposits. We extend our appreciation to all the staff at Community First Bank for supporting Dorothy in her outstanding achievements with the Ambassador’s Club. Besides her involvement with the Business Council, Dorothy gives back to the community in many ways. She is involved with United Way of Portage County, is a graduate of Leadership Portage County, member of the Stevens Point Noon Optimist Club, Alcohol & Drug Abuse Coalition, Junior Achievement, past Board and Chair of Women’s Fund of Portage County and the Wisconsin Bankers Association. There are currently 30 active Ambassadors with the Portage County Business Council. Members of this enthusiastic group generally lend a hand whenever they see something that needs doing. Last year alone, the entire Club gave back over 1,700 hours of volunteer time. If you are interested in joining the Ambassadors Club or just want to hear more about it, contact Karen Schanock at the Business Council or email at kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com. Congratulations Dorothy!
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
The Pineries Bank received the 2013 Small Business of the Year Award. The award is chosen based on: - Sales growth - Employment growth - Customer service - Community service - Leadership involvement - Innovative efforts adapting to marketplace changes The Pineries Bank has experienced steady growth for almost 20 years, which can be attributed to community support, an ongoing goal to provide exceptional levels of customer service and being 100% locally owned. The bank was established in 1997 in the central Wisconsin community of Stevens Point. Paul Adamski and a group of 14 other Portage County investors purchased the State Bank of Mattoon and relocated its charter and home office to Stevens Point. The original asset size has increased from $6 million dollars to $70 million dollars. The bank has grown its loan portfolio in excess of $45 million dollars, all of which are loans which support borrower’s needs in Central Wisconsin. The staff consists of 10 full-time employees and 2 part-time employees. Of the 10 full-time employees, 7 have been with the organization for 10 years or more. The bank takes pride in the fact that it provides an Employee Stock Ownership Program for each full-time employee. This program gives each employee a percentage ownership of the bank. Paul is committed to keeping the business locally owned and family operated, a situation that can only be good for Portage County and Central Wisconsin. In the past 7 years, Paul is pleased that both of his children Rachael Gadbois and Justin Adamski have joined the team at The Pineries Bank. Paul hopes to semi-retire in the next 5 to 6 years and is excited that Rachael and Justin’s presence, along with tenured and loyal staff support, will help insure this dream. Ongoing commitment to the community is evident through donations, involvement and support to many organizations including, but not limited to the Portage County Business Council, Community Industries Foundation, Kiwanis Club, UWSP Foundation, United Way of Portage County, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Wisconsin, Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum, Women’s Fund of Portage County, and many local community events and activities. Last year alone, employees of the bank gave a total of 562 hours of volunteer time back to the community! Congratulations to The Pineries Bank!
02.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN
07
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS AND SILENT AUCTION CONTRIBUTORS The Business Council extends its appreciation to the many businesses, organizations and individuals for their generous support of the 2014 Annual Dinner. A special thank you to our Presenting Sponsor:
Much appreciation to our Award Sponsors:
Thank you to our Reception Sponsor:
And thank you to our Media Sponsor:
And thank you to our Silent Auction contributors: @1800 Altmann Construction Company, Inc. Anderson O’Brien Bev’s Floral & Gifts Big Apple Bagels Big Brothers Big Sisters of Portage County Blenker Companies, Inc. BMO Harris Bank Central City Credit Union Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra CN Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group, Inc. Community First Bank Community Insurance & Associates Contemporary Photography Country Inn & Suites Delta Dental of Wisconsin Durclean Specialists Exceling Your Business LLC Fazoli’s Restaurant Figi’s Inc. Flexible Fitness Solutions Flexible Nutrition Solutions Frank’s Hardware Company, Inc. General Beer Girls in Pearls Boutique Grazies Italian Grill Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center Judi Erickson, Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group, Inc. JZ Esthetics LLC K-tech Kleening Systems, Inc. Lee Ayers Jewelers Ligman & Wille CPA LLC Notable Impressions Pientka Auction Service River Valley Bank The Pineries Bank The Portage County Bank Portage County Gazette Rockman’s Catering Scott’s Lawn Care Sentry Insurance Seventh Heaven Salon Ski’s Meat Market Slumberland Furniture of Stevens Point Stevens Point Area Catholic Schools Stevens Point Area YMCA Stevens Point Brewery Stevens Point Country Club Team Schierl Companies University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Welling Kitchen & Bath Wisconsin Public Service Corporation Wisconsin River Golf Club Worzalla Publishing Company
AGRI-BUSINESS SCHOLARSHIPS TO AWARD $1,000 » CLICK HERE FOR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION The Agri-Business Committee of the Portage County Business Council will award up to $1,000 in scholarships at the American Agriculture Appreciation Banquet on Monday, March 10, 2014. Application forms and a list of scholarship criteria are available at the Business Council office and on our web site. Forms are also available at any Portage County High School Guidance office.
08
THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER
2013 Agri-Business Scholarship Recipients: Brian Hoffmann – Amherst, son of John and Arlene Hoffman Mike Sankey – Amherst, son of Lonnie and Tammy Sankey Applications are due by Friday, February 21, 2014. Contact Karen Schanock at 715-344-1940 or kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com for additional scholarship information.
stats +
2013 facts
Our mission is to be the recognized leader in strengthening Portage County’s quality of life by promoting a business climate that encourages growth and stability.
650+
70+ businesses assisted Jobs
Site & Building Availability Property for Sale & Lease
Feasibility Studies
Relocation
84
Investments in Buildings
Location Assistance
Equipment and Training
Economic Impact Data Referrals
Ambassadors 31 volunteered over
Groundbreakings
Demograhics & Statistics
Employment Opportunities
students participated in Partners In Education programs such as Career Expo, Reality Shop, and Job Shadowing
Advocacy
Coordinating Connections
years of supporting businesses in the Portage County area through training & networking
454
businesses are invested members of the PCBC
39 members joined in 2013
1,700 160
hours for
events including
ground breakings, ribbon cuttings, business visits, and PCBC events
$5,875,420 1
in gift certificates sold since 2000. This money is being spent right here in Portage County!
CLICK HERE FOR PRINTABLE VERSION
02.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN
09
AdvAncing Wisconsin MAnufActuring
Seminar Series
Wisconsin continues to battle the workforce paradox – high unemployment, yet employers desperately seeking qualified workers. The WMC Foundation, in partnership with the Wisconsin Technical College System and all 16 Technical Colleges, is proud to highlight current workplace solutions and an early preview of a new initiative to establish a 20-year strategic plan for the state called – Future Wisconsin.
In It For The Long Run: Future Wisconsin WMC Foundation President Jim Morgan will offer an early, inside look at the business community’s 20-year strategic economic vision for Wisconsin. What are Wisconsin’s strengths? What are the state’s barriers? What should our priorities be to ensure long-term economic success? Where does talent attraction and retention fit in?
Taking It Local: Current Workforce Solutions
Local business and educational leaders will offer current initiatives with the K-12 system, college programming, and customized business solutions.
PRogRam 7:30 a.m.
Breakfast
7:45 a.m.
Welcome: College President
8:00 a.m.
Future Wisconsin Initiative: Talent attraction and Retention – Jim morgan, WmC Foundation President
8:30 a.m.
Innovative Partnerships and Practices – Panel Presentation/Discussion Innovative practices in K-12, college programming, and customized business solutions followed by discussion.
9:50 a.m.
What You Can Do Back Home
10:00 a.m.
adjourn
Optional College tour at some sites immediately following the program.
10
THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER
AdvAncing Wisconsin MAnufActuring
Seminar Series
RegISTRaTIon FoRm
online registration Available at: www.wmc.org
Fax back today to (608) 258-3413 or email Susan Nyffenegger at snyffenegger@wmc.org. Registration confirmations will be mailed. Pre-registration is required. Space is limited. Call (608) 258-3400 with any questions. Mail: WMC Foundation, PO Box 352, Madison, WI 53701-0352 Name of Attendee ________________________________________________________ Title ___________________________________________________________________ Company/School/Agency __________________________________________________ REGISTRATION ONLY Address ________________________________________________________________ $20 FOR WMC AND/OR City ________________________ State ________________ Zip __________________ CHAMBER MEMBERS! Phone ____________________________ Fax _________________________________ E-mail (required)_________________________________________________________ Special Needs ___________________________________________________________ Please check the box of the session(s) you plan to attend.
Method of Payment: $30/person
Check made payable to WMC Foundation Bill my credit card: Visa MasterCard AmExpress Acct # ____________________________________ Exp date___________________________________ Amt $_____________________________________ Cardholder’s name __________________________ Fed ID# 39-1394068
2014 DaTeS & LoCaTIonS Monday, february 17 Gateway Technical College, Kenosha Mtg Code: 1425a Wednesday, February 19 Fox Valley Technical College, Appleton Mtg Code: 1425b Wednesday, February 21 Blackhawk Technical College, Janesville Mtg Code: 1425c Tuesday, February 25 Western Technical College, La Crosse Mtg Code: 1425d Wednesday, February 26 Milwaukee Area Technical College, Milwaukee Mtg Code: 1425e Monday, March 3 Northcentral Technical College, Wausau Mtg Code: 1425f Tuesday, March 4 Waukesha County Technical College, Waukesha Mtg Code: 1425g
Thursday, March 6 Chippewa Valley Technical College, Eau Claire Mtg Code: 1425h
Tuesday, March 18 Moraine Park Technical College, Fond du Lac Mtg Code: 1425n
Friday, March 7 Indianhead Technical College, Rice Lake Mtg Code: 1425i
Friday, March 21 Southwest Technical College, Fennimore Mtg Code: 1425o
Tuesday, March 11 Nicolet Technical College, Rhinelander Mtg Code: 1425j
Thursday, March 27 Madison College, Madison Mtg Code: 1425p
Thursday, March 13 Mid-State Technical College, Wisconsin Rapids Mtg Code: 1425k Friday, March 14 Lakeshore Technical College, Cleveland Mtg Code: 1425l Monday, March 17 Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, Green Bay Mtg Code: 1425m
Meeting location will be sent with registration confirmation. 02.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN
11
12th Annual
Business Day in Madison February 6, 2014
Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center, Madison What’s the future of our nation’s economy, and the future of our political leadership? Attend Business Day in Madison on February 6, 2014 and look into the crystal ball that will help us steer a path toward profitability. The 2014 program will cover politics, the economy, international affairs, and leadership. Registration Rates Individual rate: $165 Table of 8: $1,220 per table
ECONOMY
LEADERSHIP
POLITICS
Robert O’NEILL Team leader, Naval Special Warfare Development Group; Retired member Seal Team Six
A.B. STODDARD Associate Editor and Columnist for The Hill
Charles PAYNE Founder, CEO & Chief Analyst of Wall Street Strategies; Fox Business Network Contributor; Awardwinning Author
Never Quit: The Story of a Life Built on Successful Missions
Politics and Public Policy—2014 and Beyond
It Can Still Be Morning in America
Wednesday - February 5 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Welcome Reception
ursday - February 6 7:30-9:00 a.m.
VIP Breakfast (sponsors only)
9:00-10:15 a.m.
Robert O’Neill
10:30-11:45 a.m.
A.B. Stoddard
12:00-1:15 p.m.
Luncheon and Keynote Charles Payne
1:30-2:30 p.m.
Daniel Christman
2:30-3:00 p.m.
Governor Scott Walker
3:00 p.m.
Adjourn or Legislative Visits
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
GUEST SPEAKER
Daniel CHRISTMAN Senior Counselor to U.S. Chamber President
Governor Scott WALKER
A Tour of a Challenged World
Please be our guest at the Welcome Reception on February 5, 2014 at The Madison Club. No charge for program registrants. Fee: $30/person if not registered to attend Business Day in Madison. State Agency Secretaries and Wisconsin State Legislators will be invited.
For more information go to: www.businessdayinmadison.com A program presented in partnership with the WMC Foundation, Inc.
12
THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER
2014 pcbc / foundation board of DIRECTORS \\
meetings & other DATES \\
Executive Board
February 2014
Keith Pilger - President, Anderson O’Brien Ken Erler - Vice President, Sentry Insurance David McHone - Past President , Central WI Management Services, LLC Sue Wille - Treasurer, Ligman & Wille CPA LLC Erik Carlson - Member at Large, Ellis Stone Construction Company Lisa Sobczak - Member at Large, ABR Employment Services Doug Ballweg - Member at Large, Delta Dental of Wisconsin Lori Dehlinger, Executive Director, Portage County Business Council, Inc.
Board of Directors Tom Altmann - Altmann Construction Company Lorraine Avery - Associated Bank Lisa Bourget - Travel Guard, Inc. Patty Dreier - Portage County Executive David Eckmann - University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point Jim Firminhac - WoodTrust Bank Scott Glinski - Skyward Andrew Halverson - Mayor, City of Stevens Point O. Phillip Idsvoog - Portage County Board Chair Lonnie Krogwold - Portage County Board Finance Chair Todd Kuckkahn - Stevens Point Area Catholic Schools Deb Marten - Marten Machining Cherrie Marti - Ministry Saint Michael’s Hospital Richard O’Sullivan - Mid-State Technical College Jim Petersen - Marshfield Clinic Susan Placzek - SentryWorld Sports Center Dan Schlutter - Village of Plover Attila Weninger - Stevens Point Area Public Schools Ward Wolff - First Weber Group Realtors Rob Wyman - Ambassador, River Valley Bank Gary Wysocki - Paragon Farms Robert Worth - Director Emeritus, The Worth Company
Board Advisors Sara Brish - Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Dan Mahoney - Village of Plover Michael Ostrowski - City of Stevens Point Steve Smith - Mid-State Technical College
5 MAXimize Your Membership, 8:00am, PCBC 12 Economic Development Committee, 7:30am, Skyward 13 Ambassador Club Meeting, 8:00am, PCBC 19 Executive Committee, 7:30am, Anderson O’Brien
CONNECT WITH US ON... www.PortageCountyConnects.com The Portage County Business Council reminds you that Portage County Connects is your connection to insights, resources, and economic development news in Portage County.
Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter - @PoCoBiz
advertise with US \\ » CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO For questions, please contact Sarah at 715-344-1940 or admin@portagecountybiz.com.
BUY LOCAL Purchasing Portage County gift certificates continues to be a successful way to “Buy Local”. Portage County gift certificates make great gifts. Gift certificates can be purchased at area banks, credit unions, the Convention and Visitors Bureau or at our office. They can be used at any business with a Portage County address and are available in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $25, $50 & $100. The PCBC would like to thank everyone who participates for helping make the program successful. We would also like to thank BMO Harris Bank for their financial support of the gift certificate program.
the TEAM \\ they make things happen! PCBC / Foundation Staff
Email Addresses
The Active Voice
Lori Dehlinger - Executive Director Mary Jo Monday - Director of Member Relations Karen Schanock - Director of Programs & Events Bill Christiansen - Director of Foundation Kari Thompson - Business & Office Operations Director Sarah Bosshart - Administrative / Marketing Assistant
ldehling@portagecountybiz.com
Questions / Comments:
mmonday@portagecountybiz.com
Sarah Bosshart \\ admin@portagecountybiz.com
kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com fdn@portagecountybiz.com acctg@portagecountybiz.com admin@portagecountybiz.com
Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter - @PoCoBiz Follow us on LinkedIn
PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL & FOUNDATION \\ 5501 VERN HOLMES DRIVE \\ STEVENS POINT, WI 54482 \\ P 715-344-1940 \\ F 715-344-4473
02.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN
13