04.2014 The Active Voice Newsletter by Portage County Business Council, Inc.

04.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN

upcoming EVENTS \\

IN THIS ISSUE \\

Small Business X-Change

BUSINESS ON THE GREEN SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES (6-7) VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY AT THE UPCOMING REALITY SHOP (9) SMALL BUSINESS AWARD TO BE PRESENTED MAY 2ND (3) LEADERSHIP PORTAGE COUNTY MARCH SUMMARY & SEEKING APPLICANTS FOR 2014-15 (9) MEMBER OF THE MONTH - CENTRAL CITY CREDIT UNION (4) SAVE THE DATE FOR THE JUNE WOMEN IN BUSINESS (8) MOBILE BROADBAND TESTING IN PORTAGE COUNTY (5) 2014-2015 LEADERSHIP PORTAGE COUNTY APPLICATION (9) SMALL BUSINESS X-CHANGE (2) BUSINESS BRIEFS (2) BUSINESS AFTER HOURS (3) PCBC NOW ACCEPTING MEMBER EVENT POSTERS FOR DISPLAY (3) NEW MEMBERS (4) MAXIMIZE YOUR MEMBERSHIP SESSION (5) FIRST EVER WOMEN IN BUSINESS FASHION SHOW WAS A SUCCESS! (8) PCBC LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE HOLDS SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATE FORUM (8) BUSINESS COUNCIL HONORS INDIVIDUALS FOR CONTRIBUTIONS TO AGRICULTURE (10) 2014 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ROSTER (11) PCBC CONTACT INFORMATION (11)

Wednesday, April 9, 2014 \\ 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Portage County Business Council, Foundation Room 5501 Vern Holmes Drive | Stevens Point, WI 54482

» REGISTER SalesNet

Thursday, April 17, 2014 \\ 11:45 AM - 1:00 PM Portage County Business Council, Foundation Room 5501 Vern Holmes Drive | Stevens Point, WI 54482

» REGISTER

Business After Hours Monday, April 21, 2014 \\ 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Ambulatory Surgical Center and Klasinski Clinic 500 Vincent Street | Stevens Point, WI 54481

» REGISTER

Small Business Breakfast Friday, May 2, 2014 \\ 7:15 AM - 9:00 AM Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center 1001 Amber Avenue | Stevens Point, WI 54482

» REGISTER

MAXimize Your Membership Wednesday, May 7, 2014 \\ 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM Portage County Business Council, Foundation Room 5501 Vern Holmes Drive | Stevens Point, WI 54482

» REGISTER

Small Business X-Change Wednesday, May 14, 2014 \\ 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Portage County Business Council, Foundation Room 5501 Vern Holmes Drive | Stevens Point, WI 54482

» REGISTER

APRIL MEETING CALENDAR (11) *If you’re reading this as a pdf online, click an article title above to jump directly to that page.

MEMBER LOGIN AREA UPDATE We updated our Member Login area, located on our homepage, www.portagecountybiz.com. Once logged in, you will notice the new features and easy navigation on the dashboard. Update your profile today, to get the most out of your membership and reach more potential customers! Questions or can’t login? Contact Sarah at admin@portagecountybiz.com or 715-344-1940.

SMALL BUSINESS X-CHANGE 4.9.14 \\ 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM PCBC FOUNDATION ROOM » CLICK HERE TO REGISTER > Continental Breakfast served > No cost to attend but the value of the information may be priceless!

SPONSOR PRESENTED BY Brian Formella graduated from Marquette University with B.A. degrees in English and Economics and from Marquette University Law School with honors. After graduating, he was a Law Clerk to Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Louis J. Ceci. His areas of practice include employment and labor law, muJoin Attorney Brian Formella as he discusses recent legal trends facing Wisconnicipal law, environmental law, real estate sin employers, including social media policies, the idea of morality clauses in and general business law. Brian has a strong handbooks or agreements, and an FMLA-covered vacation in Las Vegas. legal background in employment, labor and municipal law. He works with employers to establish sound employment practices. He Small Business X-Change meets regularly throughout the year at the Portage has also aggressively defended employers County Business Council office. A roundtable series of meetings that allows against discrimination accusations. business owners and their employees the opportunity to discuss pertinent topics, learn from local industry leaders and, most importantly, learn from each other.

TOPIC: “SOCIAL MEDIA, MORALITY CLAUSES AND MORE: RECENT LEGAL TRENDS FACING WISCONSIN EMPLOYERS”

ABOUT SMALL BUSINESS X-CHANGE

The Business Briefs column is an avenue to spotlight noteworthy business and professional accomplishments, recognition and awards among our Business

business BRIEFS \\ 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

Laura West, CAP Services’ Director of Jobs and Business Development, successfully completed the Commercial Lending School held Feb. 16-21 in Wisconsin Dells. Sponsored by the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA), the curriculum provided bankers and other lenders with an advanced understanding of the principles and practices of commercial lending. The faculty was comprised of bankers who are considered authorities in their field. West oversees CAP’s business development services in Marquette, Outagamie, Portage, Waupaca, Waushara and Wood counties. Services include a mix of one-on-one technical assistance, business loans, and other services to help start up and expanding businesses succeed. \\ CAP Services’ Early Childhood Development program was recently recognized as having fully implemented the Wisconsin Pyramid Model for social and emotional competence in its Head Start and Early Head Start programs. CAP’s programs are the first to complete implementation under a State of Wisconsin pilot program encouraging adoption of the model.

The Pyramid Model uses an evidence-based framework to promote healthy social and emotional development and prevent challenging behaviors in young children. Participating programs are required to implement specific teaching strategies, to provide training for staff and parents, complete classroom observations, and to collect data that is reported to the state. \\ Business owners and entrepreneurs working with Wisconsin Small Business Development Center consultants injected more than $103 million in capital into Wisconsin’s economy in 2013. The funds came through U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) guaranteed loans, conventional loans, community development funds and private investments. \\ Keller, Inc., a Design/Build General Contractor with offices in Wausau, Madison, Milwaukee and Wausau announces the addition of Darrin Braun to its Wausau Project Management Team. Darrin will be responsible for project sales in Wausau and the outlying areas along with management of those projects through completion. Braun has over ten years of experience in the construction industry. \\

THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

Doctors at Aspirus Regional Cancer Center recently began treating patients with a new radiation technology called HDR (High Dose Rate) Brachytherapy. HDR Brachytherapy is a very precise and highly effective form of radiation therapy, in which the radiation source that delivers the required dose of radiation is placed in or close to the tumor itself. The precision of HDR Brachytherapy allows physicians to concentrate a high dose of radiation in a small volume, minimizing damage to nearby, healthy body tissue and organs. \\ Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group is pleased to announce their Stevens Point office’s February Chairman’s Circle list: Pete Meinholz Todd Reilly Tiffany Broecker Josh Zimmerman Nicole Paye Bob Plucker Holly Carter \\

SMALL BUSINESS AWARD TO BE PRESENTED MAY 2ND SPOTLIGHTING SMALL BUSINESS

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

5.2.14 \\ 7:15 AM - 9:00 AM

4.21.14 \\ 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

» CLICK HERE TO REGISTER WHERE Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center 1001 Amber Avenue, Stevens Point, WI

REGISTRATION $22 Per Person *Your 2nd breakfast is FREE for each Business Council Member Business with 25 or fewer full-time employees and with one paid admission from the same business. Click link above to Register Online or call 715-344-1940.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS Friday, May 2nd marks our annual celebration of small business success across Portage County. Join in the excitement as we recognize the achievements of the recipient of the Entrepreneur of the Year Award - Girls in Pearls Boutique.

Our guest speaker for the event is Wisconsin’s 71st Assembly District Representative Katrina Shankland. Her message for the event is “Investing In Our Own: Growing Small Business in Portage County.”

» CLICK HERE TO REGISTER » MAP HOST\

This year’s theme “Spotlighting Small Business,” captures the entrepreneurial spirit of small business across Portage County. To honor Portage County small business members, the Business Council invites you to attend the May 2nd breakfast from 7:15-9:00AM. The event will be held at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center, 1001 Amber Avenue, Stevens Point, WI. Please contact Karen Schanock with any questions at 715-344-1940 or kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com. Location of Event: Ambulatory Surgical Center & Klasinski Clinic 500 Vincent Street Stevens Point, WI 54481

The Business Council wishes to thank our sponsors of the event:

Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, refreshments and door prize giveaways. All attendees will receive a complimentary wine opener – In addition, there will be several door prizes including a cheese and sausage basket, a coffee basket, a wine basket, Portage County gift certificates and a Kindle Paperwhite.

No Cost to attend! Pre-registration is appreciated. Please RSVP by Friday, April 18, 2014.

PCBC NOW ACCEPTING MEMBER EVENT POSTERS FOR DISPLAY Are you looking to spread the news about an upcoming event your business or organization is hosting? Let the Business Council help by displaying event posters in our lobby. Just follow these few simple steps to add extra value to your event marketing:

EVENT POST ON PCBC WEBSITE

1. Post an event on the Portage County Business Council website at no cost. 2. NEW! Once the event is added to the PCBC website, bring in a flyer or poster featuring that event to hang on display in our lobby area for members and visitors to see.

EVENT AD IN PCBC NEWSLETTER

1. Advertise event in PCBC monthly newsletter, The Active Voice. 2. NEW! PCBC will print a copy of the ad and post it in our lobby area for members and visitors to see. 3. Advertisers should also add the event to our website for added exposure.

If you need assistance with your login and password to add events to our website or want to know more about advertising opportunities in our monthly newsletter, The Active Voice, contact Sarah at the PCBC. Call 715-344-1940 or email admin@portagecountybiz.com. You may also CLICK HERE for more information on advertising opportunities in our monthly newsletter.

04.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN

a bit about OUR NEWEST MEMBERS \\ HO-CHUNK GAMING NEKOOSA LYNETTE LEGARDE Nekoosa \\ 715-886-4560 \\ http://www.rbcwin.com \\ Join Date \\ 2/24/2014

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. April features a business that begins with the letter “C”.

CENTRAL CITY CREDIT UNION 2331 Post Road \\ Plover, WI (715) 389-8213 \\ http://www.centralcitycu.com \\ pwesenberg@centralcitycu.com \\ Join Date \\ 2/1/1996

S.C. SWIDERSKI, LLC TERRA PLAISANCE Mosinee \\ 715-693-4533 \\ http://www.scswiderski.com \\ tammy@scswiderski.com \\ Join Date \\ 3/10/2014

What they have to say \\ Central City Credit Union is a cooperative, not-for-profit financial institution with over 23,000 members. Anyone who lives or works in Wood, Portage, Marathon, Shawano, Clark, Adams, Waupaca, and Waushara Counties in the State of Wisconsin is eligible to become a member.

EXPRESS RECYCLING SOLUTIONS TIM ZACHER Wisconsin Rapids \\ 715-342-9999 \\ http://www.expressrecycling.biz\\ email@expressrecycling.biz \\ Join Date \\ 3/17/2014

SIGN PRO KURT CHECK Plover \\ 715-341-7446 \\ http://www.341sign.com \\ sales@341sign.com \\ Join Date \\ 12/30/2013 About \\ Sign Pro, a family owned and operated business, has established a reputation for quality work and fast turnaround times. As a full service sign and graphics shop, Sign Pro produces full color signs and banners of any size and shape. In addition, we specialize in vehicle wraps, vehicle lettering, and graphics. Whether it’s your personal vehicle or fleet vehicle, we can help get you noticed. With over 17 years of experience, we work with our customers to get their business recognized, from design to installation. We also offer window tinting for your home, auto, and business, to help keep you cool in the summer and protect your investments from harmful UV rays. Sign Pro welcomes the opportunity to work with you.

As a co-op, we operate much differently than a traditional for-profit business. We put people before profit and we always try to help our members improve their financial well-being. It may sound like lip service, but we really operate that way. Each of our members has an equal share of ownership. After operating expenses, taxes, and soundness requirements are met, the rest is returned to our members. We offer many of the same products you would see at other financial institutions like savings, checking, loans, mortgages, and more. We also offer products you might not see at other financials like low-interest fixed rate credit cards, mobile apps, shared branching and products for small businesses too. Supporting young adults in our community is an important part of our role as a not-for-profit credit union, and we are very passionate about sharing our knowledge. Central City operates in-school branches at Marshfield High School, Stevens Point Area High School (SPASH), and Nasonville Elementary School and we just won our second consecutive national award for youth financial education. The educational programs and classroom resources we provide help teachers teach about topics like budgeting, borrowing, saving & investing, understanding your credit score, managing debt, career planning, starting a business, and understanding financial markets.

DO YOU KNOW A LOCAL BUSINESS THAT WOULD BENEFIT FROM MEMBERSHIP? CONTACT Mary Jo Monday 715-344-1940 \\ mmonday@portagecountybiz.com

THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

Financial education is something most of us were never taught and we have an incredible opportunity and a moral responsibility to educate tomorrow’s leaders on topics they will use for the rest of their lives.

MOBILE BROADBAND TESTING IN PORTAGE COUNTY HELP TEST AND IMPROVE MOBILE BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY! LINKWISCONSIN MOBILE TEST APP Fast Broadband access is essential for many parts of your hometown, including public safety teams, business owners, and your friends and family. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) is working to improve Broadband access for folks all across the state. As part of this effort, the PSC is working to validate the coverage zones of mobile wireless providers. To collect connectivity data and analyze Broadband performance, the PSC is looking for volunteers to install a free smartphone app. These apps don’t collect any information about phone usage or the user, but contribute Broadband connection data for any communities where tests are taken. The PSC will use data from these apps to find and depict areas more accurately. Findings from these tests will be considered for Broadband expansion funding and may be shared with network providers to help improve our coverage maps. You can contribute to this effort by installing one of the two apps below!

The LinkWISCONSIN Mobile Test takes a Broadband connectivity test about once a day on an automatic basis. You can also run tests manually to record connectivity results at any location. This app has very little impact on your data plan as it’s designed to only collect 100 MB of data per month. Because of the limited testing that this app performs, we recommend this app for folks with very limited data plans who still want to help contribute to tests (data plans less than 1GB). The PSC is planning on mobile Broadband testing well into the future, but you have the power to run either of these apps as long as you choose. You can download the app by searching for “LinkWISCONSIN Mobile Test” in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

LINKWISCONSIN DRIVE TEST APP Provided directly through the PSC, the LinkWISCONSIN Drive Test records a test automatically once every ten minutes as the phone travels. The frequent testing that this app performs gives the PSC the most data for analysis and is the preferred app for mobile Broadband testing. You can also take tests manually to test Broadband in locations that you know have poor connectivity. Test data from this app allows analysis by phone model and preexisting conditions to get a better understanding of connectivity where you work and live. To make the volunteer experience easier, the PSC will work with you directly to ensure the app is running properly. You can also control the amount of data that the app uses per month starting between 500 MB and 2 GB. Please contact the PSC’s State Broadband Office (PSCStateBroadbandOffice@wisconsin.gov) to arrange a download today!

Please contact Colter Sikora at the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin with any questions or concerns. Colter J. Sikora Broadband Mapping Coordinator Division of Business and Communications Services Public Service Commission of Wisconsin 610 N. Whitney Way, Madison, WI 53707 p) 608-267-1204 w) http://psc.wi.gov/ e) colter.sikora@wisconsin.gov

MAXIMIZE YOUR MEMBERSHIP SESSION » CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Are you looking for ways to get the most out of your membership? Maybe you know someone who is thinking about joining, but wants to learn more about the benefits of membership. MAXimize Your Membership can help! This quick, yet comprehensive membership orientation is for prospective, new and long-term members who want get involved and find out how the Business Council can create value, exposure and networking opportunities while marketing your business. Date: Time: Location: Cost:

Wednesday, May 7, 2014 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM Portage County Business Council – Foundation Room No cost to attend

Attendees will: • Introduce themselves and their business • Meet PCBC staff and other attendees • Learn about member programs and events • Take a tour of the PCBC website • Have time for Q&A and more. Don’t forget to have your business cards on hand to share with others in attendance. Members, if you haven’t done so already, please bring along 10-15 business brochures to display in our front lobby information area.

Tina Grezinski Your Efficiency Expert

Do you want to INCREASE your PROFITS, while boosting your efficiency, amplifying your data accuracy, & growing your productivity? Sign up today for my “hands on” Pivot Table training. This is NOT a sit and listen class, you will work on your laptop while developing your Excel skills.

Pivot Table data crunching will allow you to:    

Analyze data quickly Drill down to details by double clicking Spot trends in your sales or other vital stats Increase your accuracy and productivity

Limited Class Size

Bonus:

When: Tuesday 4/22/14 9-11 AM Where: PCBC Cost: $297 by 4/10 $347 after 4/10 Visit www.excelingyourbusiness.com to register today Free 30 minute online training devoted to your specific business needs.

For more information call the PCBC office at 715-344-1940.

04.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN

BUSINESS ON THE GREEN SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES 6.2.14 \\ 8:30 AM REGISTRATION » CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE WISCONSIN RIVER GOLF CLUB » CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE STEVENS POINT COUNTRY CLUB The Ambassadors Club of the Portage County Business Council will be holding their 25th Annual Golf Outing, Business on the Green on June 2, 2014 at two highly rated Wisconsin courses—the Stevens Point Country Club and the Wisconsin River Golf Club. With over 280 golfers participating and additional business representatives attending the 19th Hole Networking Event, the 2014 event will be a great environment to expand your contacts. Our 19th Hole Networking Event will be taking place at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center beginning at 3:00pm with a plentiful picnic buffet style service featuring BBQ Pulled Pork (with Kaiser buns), Tomato Bruschetta Chicken Breast, Vegetarian Pasta Primavera, Golden American Potato Salad, Fruit Salad and delicious assorted Mini Desserts, raffle prizes, and awards to entertain those attending. You have a great opportunity to be further involved in the event by taking advantage of a sponsorship! Don’t miss this!

2014 BUSINESS ON THE GREEN SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES DIAMOND LEVEL SOLD OUT

GOLD LEVEL (2) $325

Corporate sponsor of 19th Hole Networking Event

Corporate Sponsor of one hole at the golf event on one course

SPECIAL THANKS TO:

SPECIAL THANKS TO: ABR Employment Services, Figi’s Inc, Keller Inc, Pat’s CARSTAR, Rasmussen College, Stevens Point Brewery • • • • •

GOLD LEVEL $850 ONLY 12 REMAIN

Corporate sponsor of one hole at the golf event on one course

SPECIAL THANKS TO: Anderson O’Brien, Bull’s Eye Credit Union, Central City Credit Union, Clean Power LLC, Commercial Roofing Inc, Delta Dental of Wisconsin, Donaldson Company Inc, Ellis Stone Construction Company Inc, M3 Insurance, Point of Beginning, Schulist’s Custom Cabinets, Sentry Insurance (Double Gold Sponsor – both courses), Skyward, Solarus, Team Schierl Companies, The Pineries Bank, US Bank •

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Company logo on 24”x 36” sign provided by Business Council for hole on golf course Company name on registration brochure and event program Two months of promotion in Business Council newsletter, The Active Voice Company logo displayed on Business on the Green webpage (including a “link” to company website) Company name on signs during the event at two courses and at the 19th Hole Networking Event Up to two lunches for those staffing the hole during the outing Four golfer passes at 18-hole event - your choice of course – includes green fees, carts, range balls, 8 beverage tickets for domestic beer or soda and 4 lunches Four dinner tickets for 19th Hole Networking Event

THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

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NEW! SILVER RUNNER LEVEL $625 - ONLY 1 SPONSOR PER COURSE ONLY 2 REMAIN Exclusive Corporate Sponsor of 2 Runner Carts (2 carts per course). • • • • • • • • • •

Company logo on 11” x 17” sign provided by Business Council displayed on two runner carts at one course Company name on registration brochure and event program Opportunity to decorate two runner carts with your corporate colors (sponsor picks theme) Two months of promotion in Business Council newsletter, The Active Voice Company name listed on Business on the Green webpage Company name on signs during the event at two courses and at the 19th Hole Networking Event Two golfer passes at 18-hole event - includes green fees, cart, range balls, 4 beverage tickets for domestic beer or soda and 2 lunches Two dinner tickets for 19th Hole Networking Event

BEVERAGE CART SPONSORS $600 ONLY 3 REMAIN Corporate Sponsor of all beverage carts at two courses

HOLE IN ONE SPONSORS $300 ONLY 1 REMAINS

SPECIAL THANKS TO: Pointe Precision Inc, Regnier Consulting Group Inc, Stone

Corporate sponsor of Hole in One Contest on one course Value of prize and cost of insurance must be provided

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SPECIAL THANKS TO: The Portage County Bank

Innovations Inc

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Company logo on decals provided by Business Council displayed on all beverage carts at two courses Company name on all complimentary nonalcoholic beverage tickets at two courses Company name on registration brochure and event program Two months of promotion in Business Council newsletter, The Active Voice Company name listed on Business on the Green webpage Company name on signs during the event at two courses and at the 19th Hole Networking Event Two golfer passes at 18-hole event - includes green fees, cart, range balls, 4 beverage tickets for domestic beer or soda and 2 lunches

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Two dinner tickets for 19th Hole Networking Event

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Company logo on 24”x 36” sign provided by Business Council for hole on golf course Company name on registration brochure and event program One month of promotion in Business Council newsletter, The Active Voice Company name listed on Business on the Green webpage Company name on signs during the event at two courses and at the 19th Hole Networking Event Up to two lunches for those staffing the hole during the outing Two golfer passes at 18-hole event if product amount values $10,000 or more – your choice of course, includes green fees, cart, range balls, 4 beverage tickets for domestic beer or soda and 2 lunches Two dinner tickets for 19th Hole Networking Event

LUNCH SPONSORS $600 ONLY 2 REMAIN Corporate Sponsor of Luncheon at two courses

SPECIAL THANKS TO: Bayland Buildings Inc, Marshfield Clinic, Pointe Precision Inc, The Boldt Company. • • • • • • • • •

Company logo on 24”x 36” sign provided by Business Council for display at Snack Shops at two courses Company logo advertised with each golfer lunch at two courses Company name on registration brochure and event program Two months of promotion in Business Council newsletter, The Active Voice Company name listed on Business on the Green webpage Company name on signs during the event at two courses and at the 19th Hole Networking Event Two golfer passes at 18-hole event - includes green fees, cart, range balls, 4 beverage tickets for domestic beer or soda and 2 lunches Two dinner tickets for 19th Hole Networking Event

EXCLUSIVE PUTTING CONTEST SPONSOR ONLY 1 REMAINS

Corporate sponsor of Putting Contest on one course Sponsor will be responsible to staff the hole during outing and provide prize valued at a minimum of $50

SPECIAL THANKS TO: Flexible Fitness Solutions / Flexible Nutrition Solutions • • • • • • •

Company logo on 24”x 36” sign provided by Business Council for putting hole on golf course Company name on registration brochure and event program One month of promotion in Business Council newsletter, The Active Voice Company name listed on Business on the Green webpage Company name on signs during the event at two courses and at the 19th Hole Networking Event One lunch for person staffing the putting hole during the outing One dinner ticket for 19th Hole Networking Event

HOLE EVENT PRIZE SPONSORS

Corporate donation of prize(s) for special event games on golf course(s) • Company name on signs during the event at two courses and signage at the 19th Hole Networking Event • Verbal recognition at 19th Hole Networking Event • Buy one get one free golfer pass at 18-hole event if product amount values $1,000 or more - includes green fees, cart, range balls, 4 beverage tickets for domestic beer or soda, 2 lunches and 2 dinner tickets for 19th Hole Networking Event

RAFFLE PRIZE SPONSORS

Corporate donation of prize(s) for Business on the Green raffle • Company name displayed with donated raffle prize(s) at the19th Hole Networking Event • Company name on raffle ticket (must meet print deadline) • Company name on signs during the event at two courses and at the 19th Hole Networking Event • Company name on event program if product amount values $1,000 or more • Buy one get one free golfer pass at 18-hole event if product amount values $1,000 or more - includes green fees, cart, range balls, 4 beverage tickets for domestic beer or soda, 2 lunches and 2 dinner tickets for 19th Hole Networking Event

This opportunity for sponsorship is on a first-come, first-served basis. To confirm your sponsorship, please contact Karen Schanock at 715/344-1940 or kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com by Friday, April 11, 2014. We appreciate your consideration and support of this event.

GOLFER REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN.

$125/Golfer - Get Your Foursome Registered! Due to limited space for single and double golfers, start planning your foursomes soon. Courses fill on a first-come first-served basis.

04.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN

SAVE THE DATE FOR THE JUNE WOMEN IN BUSINESS 6.26.14 \\ 11:15 AM - 1:00 PM » CLICK HERE TO REGISTER PRESENTED BY MEDIA SPONSOR

Special thanks to Midwest Communications Radio Group.

Pfiffner Building in Pfiffner Park (with Rockman’s Catering) Crosby Avenue, Stevens Point Guest Speaker: Ron Strege, Director of Diversity & College Access, University of Wisconsin Stevens Point Join us for our June Women in Business as guest speaker Ron Strege presents “Telling Our Stories”.

UPCOMING WOMEN IN BUSINESS EVENTS

Watch for more detailed information on the event in our May newsletter edition.

Thursday, September 25, 2014 Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center Presenting Sponsor: Ministry Health Care

For questions contact Karen Schanock at 715/344-1940 or kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com.

Thursday, December 11, 2014 SentryWorld Sports Center, Grand Hall (formerly known as High Court) Presenting Sponsor: CliftonLarsonAllen LLP

FIRST EVER WOMEN IN BUSINESS FASHION SHOW WAS A SUCCESS!

Special thanks to Girls in Pearls Boutique and Sandra’s Lasting Impressions for their sponsorship of the March Women in Business Luncheon and FIRST EVER Fashion Runway Show. Over 125 gathered on March 20th at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center.

PCBC LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE HOSTS SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATE FORUM » CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE FORUM On Friday, March 21 the Legislative Committee of the Portage County Business Council hosted a forum for the candidates seeking election to a seat on the School Board of the Stevens Point Area Public School District. Six of the eight candidates participated and Jim Anderson, President of Ellis Stone Construction Co. served as moderator. The event, which was timely and informative, offered our members an opportunity to meet the candidates and learn more about their position on issues that affect our schools and our future workforce. Thank you to everyone who participated in this event.

THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY AT THE UPCOMING REALITY SHOP Partners In Education (PIE) provides employability skill and career awareness development opportunities for students. We accomplish our goals through educational experiences that are interactive and linked with educational institutions, businesses, and community organizations. This month there is a great event of which you can be a part. The Reality Shop, where students learn to balance a family budget takes place on April 8th at SPASH and includes High School students from SPASH, Amherst and Rosholt. As young people make decisions about educational paths, career options and family living, the Reality Shop is designed to provide students with a glimpse of what being an adult is like by showing them how much things cost and how quickly they add up. It is a real game of “life.” Contact Bill at fdn@portagecountybiz.com or 715-344-1940 for more information about participating in this event.

Students and community partners share learning and fun at the Reality Shop.

2014 PLATINUM PIE INVESTORS

LEADERSHIP PORTAGE COUNTY MARCH SUMMARY & SEEKING APPLICANTS FOR 2014-15 What an incredible day for our LPC participants! With government as our topic, the day was filled with presenters who brought their expertise and a strong sense of commitment to the constituents they serve. Deb Clements from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation brought an overview of economic development at both the regional and state levels, while Terry Arnold, a retired U.S. State Department Foreign Service Officer shared his experience and expertise of government from a global perspective. Senator Julie Lassa helped us understand the process of government at the state level. Mayor Andrew Halverson discussed the function of city government, County Board Chair O. Phillip Idsvoog made it possible for us to see the history, complexity and diversity of county government, and Dan Mahoney discussed government from the Village of Plover’s perspective. Some fun team building activities around the theme of building consensus filled out the day. Participants were engaged and appreciated the willingness of the presenters to give some of their time to this remarkable program called Leadership Portage County!

» CLICK HERE FOR THE 2014-2015 LPC APPLICATION

Government leaders bring fresh insight and understanding to LPC participants.

Applications are now being accepted for Leadership Portage County (LPC), a dynamic educational series for those ready to commit to greater leadership roles in their organizations and the community. The ten-month LPC program combines interactive monthly sessions, leadership skill development, experiential learning opportunities, community awareness activities, and networking to help participants become more effective leaders. A 2-day retreat in August jump-starts the program and participants then meet once monthly from September through May. Each interactive session is packed with information from local experts, thought-provoking discussions and an opportunity to interact with a variety of area leaders. The interim assignments and class projects provide a way for participants to apply leadership skills, enhance community awareness and continue networking. More than 450 people have completed the program since it began in 1993. Both LPC participants and their employers have benefited from the skills learned, expanded business contacts and community networks made. Application materials and tuition deposit are due to the PCBC office by June 1, 2014. Up to 28 participants are chosen based on their interest in contributing to the community in the future and their leadership potential. Each class includes a diverse mix of ages and backgrounds representing private businesses of all sizes, public institutions and nonprofit organizations. For more information contact Bill Christiansen, Director of Foundation at 715-344-1940 or fdn@portagecountybiz.com.

LPC participants sharpen their win/win negotiating skills.

04.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN

BUSINESS COUNCIL HONORS INDIVIDUALS FOR CONTRIBUTIONS TO AGRICULTURE » CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE PHOTOS FROM THE EVENT ON FACEBOOK We celebrated successes in Portage County at the March 10th American Agriculture Appreciation Banquet held at the BEST WESTERN Plover Hotel & Conference Center. Many thanks to our Patron Sponsors of the event DelMonte Foods and Heartland Farms.

Several individuals were recognized for their outstanding contributions to agriculture. Wysocki Family of Companies was awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture Award for their outstanding commitment to the progress and success of the agri-business industry and for significant contributions to the Portage County agri-business community.

Attendees listen to Guest Speaker – Ken Schroeder, Portage County Agriculture Agent present “Portage County Farm Technology Days 2014: What’s It All About”.

Wysocki Family of Companies has been involved with the Portage County Business Council for over 38 years, has been involved in the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association for the past 40 years, active in the Central Sands Water Task Force and several national industry associations. In 2013 alone, Wysocki Family of Companies raised $23,000 for United Way of Portage County and donated approximately $50,000 over the past five years to other community events and organizations. In addition, they donated 147,000 pounds of potatoes to various food pantries and food banks. Their Wisconsin staff has grown by 145 full-time positions since 2007 and today employee nearly 600 people. “It is clear that Wysocki Family of Companies and all involved are active community leaders and highly respected by many. They are advocates of the agri-business industry and have shown outstanding commitment and passion towards the agri-business in Portage County. Wysocki Family of Companies has been a true partner in growing Portage County. We are pleased to have the family choose Portage County as the place to ‘make a difference’….because indeed, they have,” said Karen Schanock, Director of Programs & Events for the Portage County Business Council. “It is an honor to present them with this award.”

Award Recipients: Wyatt Adams, Haley Dexter, Mary Lutz and Lindsay Rutz. Not pictured: Josey Pukrop and Mike Sankey

The Agri-Business Scholarship Recipients were: Wyatt Adams-son of Lisa and Larry Adams of Plover; and Josey Pukrop-daughter of Sue and Tony Pukrop of Stevens Point and Mike Sankey-son of Tammy and Lonnie Sankey of Amherst. Outstanding FFA Senior Awards went to: Lindsay Rutz-Amherst High School, daughter of Karin Hatfield and David Rutz; Haley Dexter-Rosholt High School, daughter of Renee Kolb and Kevin & Sue Dexter; and Mary Lutz-Stevens Point Area Senior High School, daughter of Peggy and Neal Lutz. The 4-H Leadership in Agriculture Award was presented to: Wyatt Adams-son of Lisa and Larry Adams of Plover. Our Master of Ceremonies-Rob Wyman introduced guest speaker Mr. Ken Schroeder, Portage County Agriculture Agent during the program. His presentation was entitled “Portage County Farm Technology Days 2014: What’s It All About”. The American Agriculture Appreciation Banquet is an annual event that celebrates Portage County individuals for their personal and professional contributions to agriculture in Portage County.

THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

Wysocki Family of Companies is honored with Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture Award

2014 pcbc / foundation board of DIRECTORS \\

meetings & other DATES \\

Executive Board

April 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 - City of Stevens Point O. Phillip Idsvoog - Portage County Board Lonnie Krogwold - Portage County Board 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 - River Valley Bank (Ambassador) Gary Wysocki - Paragon Farms Robert Worth - The Worth Company (Director Emeritus)

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

9 Economic Development Committee, 11:30am, Skyward 10 Ambassador Club Meeting, 8:00am, PCBC 16 Executive Committee, 7:30am, Anderson O’Brien 18 Office Closed - Holiday

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PORTAGE COUNTY GIFT CERTIFICATES 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

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PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL & FOUNDATION \\ 5501 VERN HOLMES DRIVE \\ STEVENS POINT, WI 54482 \\ P 715-344-1940 \\ F 715-344-4473

04.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN