JAN 2016 The Active Voice Newsletter

1.2016 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN

upcoming EVENTS \\ BUSINESS X-CHANGE Wednesday, Jan. 13 2016 \\ 7:30 A.M - 8:30 A.M. Portage County Business Council | Foundation Room 5501 Vern Holmes Dr. | Stevens Point, WI 54482

Presented By:

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BUSINESS EDUCATION FORUM Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2016 \\ 7:30 A.M.- 9:30 A.M. Portage County Business Council | Foundation Room 5501 Vern Holmes Dr. | Stevens Point, WI 54482

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ANNUAL DINNER Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2016 \\ 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center 1001 Amber Dr. | Stevens Point, WI 54482

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A NEW ERA

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 5:30 – 8:30pm Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center 1001 Amber Avenue, Stevens Point REGISTER

More information on page 15

Economic vitality is critical to our community. That economic vitality can be turned on its head in a heartbeat when a business faces a crisis.

Here is how the Portage County Business Council (PCBC) will lead the effort, and need the communities’ support, to enhance our economic vitality: • • • • • • •

Develop a consortium of accountable community leaders to affect change, thereby averting a potentially damaging crisis negatively impacting our economic vitality Initiate talent development action plans to grow the workforce for our region Through the use of business retention and expansion discussions, develop priorities along with immediate action, for business, government, education and the community Attract and retain businesses and employees through a brand focused on our strategic strengths and combined resources, including our exceptional quality of life Bring transformational value rather than transactional activity to business engagement through the chamber Connect our businesses to resources, markets and supply chains regionally in order to enhance their growth and prosperity Create a culture of entrepreneurship There is no one organization, business or community equipped to deal with any one of these, much less all of them. It truly will take our entire community. When business, education, government and the community work together and look out for each other, we all win. Reach out to that business next door, across the street, in another neighborhood or community and share best practices.

Todd Kuckkahn Executive Director at the Portage County Business Council

In my first seven months, I’ve seen glimmers of hope that we can come together and take actionable steps to achieve these. Some will take more effort and time than others. Some people may say these goals are too lofty to accomplish and that will only fuel our energy to get more done.

A good centering point towards actionable steps will be “A New ERA Workshop” on Thursday, February 11 from 8:00 AM to Noon. Get yourself registered and learn more about it on our website (www.portagecountybiz.com).

Challenge your peers and co-workers to attend.

There is also more information on page 3 in this newsletter. We are looking forward to seeing the collage of photos (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram) representing what you think is best for our community. Your input will be invaluable.

PCBC offers a great variety of services, programs, and events to support all of the great work in our community. Get off the sidelines and into the game. Let economic vitality and not crisis rule our collective futures.

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.

ABR EMPLOYMENT SERVICES ABR Employment Services Lisa Sobczak - Branch Manager 5709 Windy Drive, Suite C Stevens Point, WI 54482 (715) 344-7146 lsobczak@abrjobs.com

ABR Employment Services has been a member of the Portage County Business Council since 1987. We truly believe our partnership with PCBC has played an integral role in our success and growth allowing us the opportunity to network and learn from other business leaders.

We are a workforce solutions company that consults with clients to find more effective ways to hire, manage, motivate and retain staff. For nearly 30 years, ABR has served a wide range of businesses to provide workers for their administrative, light industrial, skilled industrial and call center positions. ABR has 13 branch locations in Wisconsin, including 2 on site locations, and 1 location in Winona, MN. Our Stevens Point office is the largest staffing firm with the most tenured staff in Central Wisconsin. Branch Manager, Lisa Sobczak, has been with ABR for over 24 years and cultivates an environment of volunteerism and giving back to the community. The best business advice I have ever received is to put your employees, customers, and communities first. Simply put, if you put others first by doing the right thing, it will come back to you.

We have a Candidate Centric Approach. We believe to attract and retain the best talent, we must provide our talent with a top-notch employee experience. Receiving consecutive Best of Staffing Awards are testimony that we provide the employee experience we promise.

ABR is the only staffing company in Wisconsin to have earned the Best of Staffing Award for providing remarkable service quality. Fewer than 2% of staffing agencies in the U.S. and Canada earned the 2015 Best of Staffing award for service excellence. ABR is a consecutive winner, having received the Best of Staffing Talent Award since 2011, and Best of Staffing Client Award since 2012.

We just awarded the 14th winner of our employee appreciation campaign called Free Rent and a Job! Each month, one winner is drawn to receive a $1,000 cash prize to help pay their rent or mortgage. Current supplemental employees in good standing receive automatic entry to win for each week worked. This month’s winner, Steven Saari, currently works at Stevens Point Housing Authority.

To see all the winners or to learn more about ABR, go to www.abrjobs.com. Or call us at 715-344-7146.

WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST MEMBERS CleanPower

What are the BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP? • Your business representatives are invited to educational and networking events • List your own business’s events, jobs, and deals on portagecounty biz.com • Receive referrals from other PCBC members • Become a special event sponsor to promote your business • Display your marketing materials in the PCBC lobby and on the PCBC website • Participate in your local community

2607 Post Road Suite #7 Stevens Point, WI 54481 (715) 344-8414

Plover VFW Post 10262 2970 Hickory Drive Plover, WI 54467 (715) 341-8414

For more information on membership, contact our Director of Business Engagement, Tonya Kowalski, at 715-344-1940 or tkowalsk@portagecountybiz.com

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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

Date: February 11, 2016 Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location: 1039 Ellis Street, Downtown Stevens Point

Website: http://www.portagecountybiz.com

A New ERA Workshop will be a gathering of future leaders, government, business, and education to create an action plan for quality of life improvements (ERA = Employee Retention and Attraction). Given that young professionals are essential to the future vitality of our community, what are we going to do to ensure that vitality? How will ERA impact that and what can WE do?

If You Want:  Action Not Activity  Experiences Not Events  Solutions Not Silos Join us on Thursday, February 11, 2016 for an exciting adventure facilitated by http://www.newaukee.com.

HOMEWORK?: Yes! We will be focusing on quality of life. To spark ideas prior to the workshop, we are asking you to post pictures of your favorite places—in other communities or here! Start Posting Today!!!

Facebook: Twitter: Instagram:

New ERA PC #New_ERAPC #New_ERAPC

Event Sponsors:

Contact Information:

Todd Kuckkahn 715-344-1940 tkuckkah@portagecountybiz.com

Fees/Admission:

The public is invited to attend at no cost

Pre-registration is required.

Registration deadline: Wednesday, February 10, 2016.

If online registration is closed and you would like to register, please call our office at 715-344-1940 3

THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

business BRIEFS \\ The Business Briefs column is an avenue to spotlight noteworthy business and professional accomplishments, recognition and awards among our Business Council members. Submit items of interest, in 100 words or less, to: admin@portagecountybiz.com by the 24th of the month prior to the next newsletter issue.

It is no wonder why First Weber is “The Human Side of Real Estate”. On November 19th and 20th the First Weber office in Stevens Point hosted their 2nd Annual Bake Sale to benefit the local Salvation Army Hope Center.

Through the community support of the bake sale and generous donations by the staff and Realtors they raised $2,500 and with the Matching Funds provided by the First Weber Foundation they were able to present a $5,000 check to the Salvation Army on December 15th. First Weber solicited donations from some local area restaurants such as Amber Grill, Grazies, Mikey’s in Plover, Silver Coach and the Rock n Roll Cafe.

They would like to thank them all for their participation. When presenting the check to Bob Quam of the Salvation Army Bob was quick to thank them for all their support of the local Salvation Army Hope Center.

They have promised to do it again, this greater turn out. The dates will be Nov.16th and 17th, 2016 at the First Weber Office next to Franks Hardware on Hwy 10 East.

A HUGE Thank You to Franks Hardware for their donations of supplies and the help with their signage outside. It would had been impossible without their help! /// Scott Stefan has joined Office Enterprises, Inc (OEI) as VP of Operations.

Scott’s experience across many different industries will help OEI to continue it’s aggressive and successful growth strategy and initiatives.

Office Enterprises, Inc.(OEI), has rebranded with a new logo. The wavy lines that could be found on a postage meter impression that inspired the original logo served OEI well through 32 years of growth and change.

However, as OEI continues to grow and expand it’s offerings, the time was right to update the look and feel to better represent who OEI is today. /// Jim Koziol, AIG Travel executive vice president of operations, presents a $5,000 check for CAP Services’ Family Crisis Center (FCC) to Mary Patoka, CAP’s president & CEO, and Daryl Woods, FCC’s lead crisis counselor, Thursday, December 3, at the FCC in Stevens Point. /// The 2016 Wisconsin Governor’s Business Plan Contest is now open for entries at www.govsbizplancontest.com. The initial entry deadline (of just 250 words!) is 5 p.m. Jan. 31, 2016. It’s FREE to enter. The contest is designed to encourage entrepreneurs in the startup stage of tech-based businesses in Wisconsin. The contest links up-and-coming entrepreneurs with a statewide network of community resources, expert advice, highquality education, management talent and possible sources of capital.

It also leads to valuable public and media exposure for the top business plans and helps spur economic growth in the state. Finalists will share in more than $100,000 in cash and in-kind prizes. Please refer to the website for additional information regarding sponsorship opportunities and the marketing toolkit. Questions can be directed to Joy Sawatzki at the Wisconsin Technology Council. (JSawatzki@wisconsintechnologycouncil. com). /// University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point alumna Marcia McDonald was hired by the county to serve as Portage County Health Care Center Administrator earlier this month. McDonald earned a degree in social work from UWSP and a degree in health care administration from the Madison campus.

The county’s nursing home has been led by interim administrators since the August 2014 resignation of Dave Rademacher, who held the position after three years at the facility for a position at the Veterans Home at King in Waupaca.

McDonald is licensed as both a nursing home administrator and a social worker. Since 2006, she has served as executive director of Emeritus

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Senior Living Corporation. Her responsibilities included hiring, training and staffing the senior living community.

She also previously served as the area director of marketing for Americor Management and Harmony Assisted Living, as well as the administrator of Fort Atkinson Health and Rehabilitation Center and Continental Manor.

County Executive Patty Dreier appointed McDonald to the leadership role, a decision unanimously approved by the County Board Dec. 15. /// Pat’s CARSTAR of Plover donated a 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan to Stephanie Dake and her family Tuesday, December 22, extending the business’s Recycled Rides tradition into its eighth year. This year, the company also donated more than $1,500 to the Boys and Girls Club of Portage County.

Pat Arnold, Kempen’s uncle and former owner of Pat’s CARSTAR, took the lead in finding the vehicle and organizing the repairs for the Recycled Rides program. To find a family in need, Pat’s CARSTAR partners with CAP Services, a local private, nonprofit organization.

Stephanie Dake’s family was chosen from among several applicants. Dake has three children, Riley, 8; Christopher, 9, Rhiley, 8, and Clint, 3. Her boyfriend Dan also has two children Cole, 13, and Kaylee, 12.

Dake described her former vehicle as a “death trap,” with windows that didn’t roll up completely and doors that didn’t open from the inside. With her starting a new job, Dake needed a safe and reliable vehicle for getting to work, school, and other everyday activities. The family is also looking forward to being able to take summer camping trips to state parks.

Pat’s CARSTAR purchased the minivan from Mark Toyota in Plover, who donated the mechanical work to ensure the vehicle would be in good working order for the family. Gandrud Chrysler in Green Bay donated around $2,500 worth of replacement parts, BASF donated the paint, and Pat’s CARSTAR technicians donated time to do the bodywork and repaint the vehicle.

In addition to the minivan, Pat’s CARSTAR employees donated a gas card to the family. Pat and Sandy Arnold also bought gifts for the family that were waiting in their new van.

Pat’s CARSTAR’s vehicle donation tradition began with the National Auto Body Council’s (NABC) Recycled Rides program. Recycled Rides, launched in 2007, is a nationwide awareness program where collision repair members of the NABC repair and donate used vehicles to families in need in their communities.

The Boys and Girls Club donation included over $1,000 raised from a brat fry held over the summer and an additional $500 gift in honor of the late Charlie Fernandez, who worked with Pat’s CARSTAR through the Gateway Return Program to help at-risk youth get exposure to the auto body trade. /// John and Patty Noel were recently honored by the Tourism Cares Board of Directors and the Review Committee as part of the 2015 Travel Philanthropy Awards.

The Noels were the recipients of the inaugural Personal Philanthropic Leadership award. John Noel is founder of the Noel Group, Travel Guard International, and most recently, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection.

He is also founder of such philanthropic efforts as the Compass Scholars program; the Boys & Girls Club of Portage County; and the Make a Mark Foundation, which helps fight the global AIDS pandemic in sub-Saharan Africa.

The Travel Philanthropy Awards celebrate and share the accomplishments of those travel companies and individuals who are as successful in their community care and stewardship as they are in business.

business BRIEFS \\ (continued) The 19th annual Festival of Trees raised $168,452 in support of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services.

The event, which took place at Stoney Creek Inn in Rothschild during the week of Thanksgiving, saw thousands of guests participate in the special events and visit during the daily hours. The Festival featured more than 110 holiday trees, wreaths, mantels and specialty items that were donated by people from the community for raffle and silent auction.

The proceeds, which surpassed the fundraising goal of $165,000, will support two community bedrooms at Aspirus Hospice House for patients with limited ability to pay, along with efforts to improve the quality of life for patients during their end-of-life.

To see photos from the various special events during the Festival of Trees, go online to the Aspirus Health Foundation Facebook page.

Media Contact: Greg Aune, 715.847.0479 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Aspirus Wausau Hospital has achieved “Exemplar” status for its NICHE (Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders) program.

NICHE is the premier designation indicating a hospital’s commitment to excellence in the care of patients 65-years-and-older. The “Exemplar” status recognizes Aspirus Wausau Hospital’s ongoing, high-level dedication to geriatric care and pre-eminence in the implementation and quality of system-wide interventions and initiatives that demonstrate organizational commitment to the care of older adults.

The “Exemplar” status – the highest of four possible program levels – was assigned following a rigorous program evaluation of the current state and future goals of the NICHE program at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. The requirements include the implementation of a special nursing model and evidence-based protocols, among other initiatives.

“The senior population is growing and older adults have unique and sometimes complex health care needs,” said Jeannine Nosko, chief nursing officer at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. “Through our participation in the NICHE program we are able to offer specialized care using evidencebased approaches that promote better outcomes, positive experiences, and improved care for the older adults in our care.”

“Older patients have an increased vulnerability compared to younger patients because they are more likely to be susceptible to falls or be taking multiple types of medications,” said Evalyn Michira, RN, geriatric clinical nurse specialist at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. “The NICHE program allows us to provide education and training to staff about unique factors to be aware of as it relates to caring for older adults.”

For more information visit www.nicheprogram.org.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Aspirus Health System today announced a two-year, $30 million expansion of Aspirus Wausau Hospital. The first phase of the campus master plan will expand and add new inpatient rooms, double the capacity of the emergency department’s ambulance garage, enhance hospital dining services, expand the Aspirus Regional Cancer Center and include new positron emission tomography (PET) and computerized tomography (CT) imaging services.

“We are very excited to announce this expansion and the continued investment in the Wausau community,” said Darrell Lentz, president of Aspirus Wausau Hospital. “Aspirus continues to benefit from growing patient demand, and this expansion allows us to respond to this growth in our mission to improve the health of our communities.”

Over the last two years, Aspirus Wausau Hospital has seen an increase in patient volumes in the inpatient and outpatient settings and the emergency department. The hospital also has seen a steady increase in helicopter transports.

“Aspirus enthusiastically approved this project as part of our continued growth and investment in the future,” said Matt Heywood, Aspirus Chief Executive Officer. “Our success is evidenced by both our strong growth

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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

and high level of patient satisfaction.”

Expansion details at a glance: • Palliative Care Unit – Improved size, privacy and access to rooms that serve very ill patients and their families. Additional patient beds added.

• Medical Surgical Intensive Care Unit – Adding new patient beds with additional space to accommodate in-room technology and access for families.

• Cardiac Intensive Care Unit – Addition of four new patient rooms.

• Support Areas – Respiratory Therapy, Pastoral Care Services and waiting areas repositioned and expanded to provide enhanced service and access.

• Cardiac Rehab – The plans call for 1,000 square feet of new space for growing heart program.

• Emergency Department – Expanded ambulance garage and access area to accommodate four ambulances, instead of the current two-rig capacity. The Emergency Department’s façade and canopy will be updated for improved visibility and access.

• Cancer Center – A 7,000 square feet expansion of the Cancer Center to accommodate infusion patients. The addition of in-house PET/ CT imaging services.

• Dining Room and Kitchen – Expanded and relocated to meet growing needs of patients, visitors and staff members.

As more patients seek care at Aspirus Health System, Aspirus is recruiting for a broad range of open positions in Wausau and throughout the system.

In the last six months, Aspirus Wausau Hospital has hired nearly 400 additional caregivers and support staff with plans to hire another 125 people to help serve the growing patient population. /// Ministry St. Michael’s Hospital’s new emergency department and urgent care has opened, with its entrance located on the the southeast corner of the building, 900 Illinois Avenue in Stevens Point.

The new emergency department, the only one of its kind in Portage County, is one of the busiest within the Ministry Health Care System.

Originally constructed to accommodate 27,000 visits annually, the department currently treats over 40,000 patients annually.

The new ED/UC area includes private waiting rooms, a new corridor connecting the north and south entrances to the hospital, a covered ambulance garage and waiting, consulting and registration areas that are more private.

In August 2013, the hospital announced plans to build a 15,000-squarefoot addition to the south end of the hospital for the emergency department and renovate 40,000 square feet of its existing facility, including its Ambulatory Surgery Center. Construction began in October 2013, and cost more than $18 million. /// The Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau has announced the winner of its recent Central Wisconsin Craft Collective Sweepstakes.

Tricia Mallett of Milwaukee and three friends will receive a weekend getaway to the Stevens Point area, including lodging, meals, transportation and VIP experiences and merchandise from the members of the Central Wisconsin Craft Collective: Point Brewery in Stevens Point, Central Waters Brewing Company in Amherst, Kozy Yak Brewery/Fresar Winery in Rosholt, O’so Brewing Company in Plover, Sunset Point Winery in Stevens Point and Great Northern Distilling in Plover.

Members of the Central Wisconsin Craft Collective work collaboratively with the Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau to encourage visitors to explore Portage County’s local flavors.

business BRIEFS \\ (continued) /// A new volunteer relationship between Pacelli Catholic School (PCS) students and CAP Services’ Head Start and Early Head Start programs has been yielding positive results for all involved this fall.

Since September, 21 student volunteers from Pacelli High School and three from St. Peter Middle School , split into three teams, have been paying weekly visits to CAP’s Family Development Center (FDC) in Stevens Point. The students, who would otherwise be in study hall, spend the hour with the 3- and 4-year-old Head Start and Early Head Start students in a variety of classroom activities including reading and playing.

“The one-on-one interaction enhances the learning opportunities for the kids, which is a big benefit for us,” said Diane Shaver, FDC program coordinator.

Pacelli Principal Larry Theiss said the high school students act as role models for the younger kids. “It gives our students a chance to look beyond themselves,” said Theiss. “It’s part of character development – developing strong civic-minded students – that is an important part of all schools.”

“The one-on-one interaction enhances the learning opportunities for the kids, which is a big benefit for us,” said Diane Shaver, FDC program coordinator.

Pacelli Freshman Jonah Repinski said he looks forward to his time at the center. “The first time, I was like I have no idea what I’m doing,” said Repinski of his first trip to FDC. “You actually get to have an influence.

I’ve made a lot of friends. They almost think of you as one of the younger teachers.”

Pacelli Junior Lauren Fish said the relationship offers a good chance to get involved in the community and would recommend it to her Pacelli peers.

“It’s exciting to see the kids happy and excited to see us,” she said.

Other PCS students who volunteered with FDC this semester include Nicole Schroeder, Ben Bisone, Karli Homann, Sarah Mueller, Samantha Cowart, Kaitlyn Cowart, Emma Springob, Delaney Mace, Amanda Klasinski, Arianna Johnson, Weronika Weronska, Delaney Lawlis, Jesse Vaughan, Karisa Mansavage, Julia Tutton, Elizabeth Cisewski, Hannah Frane, Nick Rosenthal, Cassie Ostertag, Danielle Luedtke, Emily Patton and Taylor Raflik. /// Registration for the 2016 Point Bock Run closed on New Year’s Day in two hours and 15 minutes.

That’s record time for the race’s limit of 2,000 participants, according to the Point Bock Run Facebook page. Last year’s registration filled up in about three hours.

The race will be held Saturday, March 5, 2016 at Stevens Point Brewery, 2617 Water Street. The Point Bock Run is a five-mile road race that is always held on the first Saturday in March.

The race route will start and finish in front of the brewery, and runs parallel to the Wisconsin River twice. The goal of the race is to promote and support the sport of running and healthy lifestyles in Central Wisconsin. /// The Stevens Point Noon Optimist Club is now accepting applications for 2016 Optimist Scholarships, administered by the Stevens Point Noon Optimist Club. Up to $3,000 in scholarship money will be awarded.

Scholarships will be presented to winning recipients in March of 2016.

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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

Award recipients who have completed an application must meet the following criteria: • • • • student

Be a resident of Portage County Be a graduating High School Senior Accepted to an accredited school of higher education Or attend an accredited school of higher education as a full-time

Since 2000, the Stevens Point Noon Optimist Club has awarded scholarships to worthy graduating high school seniors of Portage County.

The Stevens Point Noon Optimist Club, chartered on May 17, 1961, has been in continuous service to our local community and youth. We seek a dedicated and diverse membership and count on community support for our fund raisers.

For more information or a scholarship application form, contact any Portage County high school guidance counselor, or Club member Karen Schanock at Ph: (715) 344-1940 or email at kschanoc@portagecountybiz.

All applications must be completed and mailed to Pete Theisen at 5393 Clarice’s Circle, Stevens Point, WI 54482 no later than Monday, January 25, 2016.

BE SURE TO UTILIZE LOCATE IN WISCONSIN Do you have a property or properties for sal/lease or are looking to relocate/expand your business? Then let the Business Council help you promote those locations on Locate In Wisconsin.

Locate In Wisconsin is a website for site selectors, property searches, and leasing/sales opportunities. We can get your listing on the site in just a few minutes, and/or update an existing listing.

Click HERE to see if your property is currently listed on Locate In Wisconsin, and if not, call or email us today to get your information added.

To add or update a property listing, call 715-344-1940, or email admin@portagecountybiz.com.

MAKE A COMMITMENT TO ATTEND OR SEND SOMEONE TO LPC IN 2016 Plan on making 2016 the year to network, hone your leadership skills, and give back to the community through Leadership Portage County. The program dates below will help you plan around the LPC sessions.

The 2016/2017 LPC brochure is available by clicking HERE, and the application for the 2016-2017 program is available HERE.

2016-2017 LPC Dates August 18 & 19, 2016 (Opening Retreat) – History of Portage County September 16, 2016 – Business, Industry & Technology October 20, 2016 - Agribusiness November 17, 2016 – Government & Community December 15, 2016 – Human & Public Services January 19, 2017 – Legal System February 16, 2017 – Education & Workforce Development March 16, 2017 – Economic Development & Infrastructure April 20, 2017 – Health, Wellness & Community Service May 2, 2017 - Spring Celebration May 18, 2017 – Putting Knowledge into Action

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BUSINESS X-CHANGE 1.13.15 \\ 7:30 A.M. - 8:30 A.M. \\ PCBC FOUNDATION ROOM

» CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

NO COST TO ATTEND. CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST IS INCLUDED.

Business X-Change meets regularly throughout the year at the Portage County Business Council office. These programs allow business owners and their employees the opportunity to discuss pertinent topics, learn from local industry leaders and, most importantly, learn from each other.

7:30 A.M. - 8:30 A.M. in the Portage County Business Council Foundation Room

TOPIC: “Dementia Friendly Business” About the Program:

The Purple Angel symbolizes a guardian over those living with dementia, their families and friends, and those helping to raise awareness of the disease. The Purple Angel logo became embraced by individuals and organizations around the world. The globe was added to show the impact and collaboration of this movement.

ABOUT OUR SPEAKERS & ADRC OF PORTAGE COUNTY: About our Speakers: Cindy Piotrowski received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of WisconsinStevens Point with a double major in Communication and Psychology. Prior to working with ADRC Cindy was the Executive Director at the Epilepsy Foundation of Central and Northeast Wisconsin for eight years. Other career highlights include working as the Director of Operations for St. Vincent DePaul in Plover, WI and the Communication Manager for CAP Services in Stevens Point

Cindy Piotrowski, Aging & Disability Resource Center Director

Tonia Simmons received her Bachelor’s

Key points at this X-Change: degree from the University of Wisconsin• To raise awareness and education of all types of Stevens Point with a major in Business dementias.

Administration and a minor in Human • To show support for those dealing with all types of Resource Management. Tonia facilitates dementias; as well as those who care for them. the Caregiver Coalition in Portage • To remove the fear, isolation and stigmas associated County and has experience working with the disease. directly with caregivers to help identify • To become a global symbol for dementia that has no financial and emotional resources language barriers. available.

• To have the “Global Purple Angel” become as well known and accepted as the “Pink Ribbon” for cancer, allowing people to live with dignity.

• To provide an economical way to work in collaboration.

A prepared business is good business. Be sure to attend this X-Change to learn more about this initiative, and the advantages of becoming a dementia friendly business.

Tonia Simmons, Aging & Disability Resource Center Director

Special THANK YOU to ADRC of Portage County for their sponsorship of this program.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 2016 SCHEDULE The Business Council is pleased to announce the following 2016 Business After Hours hosts: February 15 – Brookdale Stevens Point March 21 – Office Direct Interiors April 18 – Investors Community Bank May 16 – Duraclean Specialists June 20 – Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra July 18 – Point of Beginning August 15 – Open – CONTACT KAREN TO RESERVE September 19 – AFLAC & PuroClean Restoration Professionals October 17 – Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group November 14 – Open – CONTACT KAREN TO RESERVE December 19 – Open – CONTACT KAREN TO RESERVE If Business After Hours is not in your planner yet, now is the time to pencil it in! Would you like to promote your business, share ideas and make

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important business contacts? You can do this and more, by sponsoring a Business After Hours. It’s not too early to book for 2017 either.

Host businesses can promote their facility, staff and/or new products or services to 75-100 area business people. Small businesses may wish to host this event at a member restaurant, larger facility, or co-sponsor the event with another Business Council member.

A host business provides the location, refreshments and hors d’oeuvres during the Business After Hours. In addition, the host business may choose to sponsor a door prize for the evening. The Business Council will assist in the invitation, marketing, registration, 50/50 raffle and door prize drawing.

For more information on hosting a Business After Hours call Karen Schanock at the Business Council Office, 715-344-1940 or email at kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com.

SAVE THE DATE & PLAN TO BE APART OF.......

American Agriculture Appreciation Banquet Monday, March 14, 2016 Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center 6:00 – 7:00 PM – Social 7:00 – 8:15 PM – Dinner & Awards 8:15 – 8:45 PM – Keynote Presenter

Nominations Sounght for Outstanding Contributions to Agriculture Award The Portage County Business Council is seeking nominations for the 2016 Outstanding Contributions to Agriculture Award to be presented at the American Agriculture Banquet on March 14, 2016. The award is presented to an individual or organization that excels in the agriculture field.

To register online: click here or call the Business Council office at 715-344-1940.

Nominee Award Criteria:

Watch for more details in the upcoming February newsletter.

*May include farmers, marketers, processors, or individuals involved in related areas of education, government or allied industry segments of agriculture. *Individual has furthered agriculture’s interest or development in production or marketing. *Individual has made significant contributions in agriculture related organizations. *Individual/organization has not received the award in the past three years.

2015 event held at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center

2015 Award and Scholarship Recipients

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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

Past Winners Include: 2015 Blue Top Farms & Feltz Family Farms 2014 Wysocki Family of Companies 2013 Paul Clasen, Retired, Rural Insurance 2012 Ken Schroeder, Portage County UW-Extension Nominations will be taken for the award through Monday, February 8, 2016. All nominations are confidentially reviewed by a selection committee of the Portage County Business Council Agri-Business Committee.

Seeking Speakers for 2016 X-Change Programs Are you interested in being a presenter at one of our Business X-Change programs in 2016? I invite you to submit a workshop proposal to be considered for presentation. 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 Business X-Change webpage (including a “link” to company website) – prominent location • Company name and logo in emails to over 1400 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 (optional) 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 Chart/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.

All Business X-Change programs are held at the Portage County Business Council office conference room. The current available dates are the following: Jan13th -RESERVED July 13th February 10th - RESERVED August 10th March 9th -RESERVED September 14th April 13th -RESERVED October 12th May 11th November 9th June 9th December 14th Written proposals are due by February 19, 2016. 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.

For questions please contact Karen at kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com.

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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Santa visits us at December’s Event

SAVE

S! E T A HE D

T

Mary Burke - guest speaker at the December Event

Don’t miss these exciting events scheduled for 2016: • Thursday, April 14, 2016 – Fashion Runway Show at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center, sponsored

by Girls in Pearls Boutique • Thursday, June 23, 2016 in the Grand Hall of SentryWorld, sponsored by Wisconsin Public Service Corporation • Thursday, September 22, 2016 at the Stevens Point Country Club, sponsored by Daubert Law Firm • Thursday, December 8, 2016 at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center, sponsored by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection All events will be held from 11:15 AM to 1:00 PM. Cost: $25/Members, $30/Prospective Members Photos from our December 10, 2015 event presented by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection:

MC - Stacy Cole & Santa

Crew of Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

Sell out of over 130 people

Opportunities are available to Business Council members wishing to play a greater role in our Women in Business events for 2016.

Contact Karen Schanock at kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com for all the exciting details.

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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

BUSINESS DAY IN MADISON February 24, 2016

Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center, Madison, WI

ERIC BOLLING

PROGRAM AGENDA

Co-Host of “The Five” on Fox News Channel

STEPHEN HAYES

KEN GRONBACH

Fox News Contributor & Columnist for The Weekly Standard

Demographer & Futurist

GOVERNOR SCOTT WALKER

SENATOR RON JOHNSON

FEBRUARY 23, 2016 5:00 - 7:00 PM

Welcome Reception at the Madison Club

FEBRUARY 24, 2016 7:30 AM

Registration Opens, Partner Meetings (by invitation only) and VIP Breakfast (Sponsors only)

9:00 AM

Welcome

9:15 AM

Ken Gronbach, President of KGC Direct, LLC and an internationally respected demographer

10:15 AM

Morning Break

10:30 AM

Sen. Ron Johnson

Noon

Lunch

12:15 PM

Eric Bolling, co-host of “The Five,” on Fox News Channel and host of “Cashin’ In”

1:30 PM

Stephen Hayes, senior writer at The Weekly Standard and a Fox News Contributor

2:15 PM

Legislative Visits/Afternoon Meetings (by invitation only)

3:00 PM

Gov. Scott Walker

*Schedule is subject to change.

Early Bird Pricing (through January 30, 2016): $140 per person; $1,050 table of 8 After January 30, 2016: $170 per person; $1,250 table of 8 To Register: www.businessdayinmadison.com or contact Brittany Peterson at WMC, bpeterson@wmc.org or 608.258.3400

A program presented in partnership with the WMC Foundation, Inc.

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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

AMBASSADORS SHOW THEIR SUPPORT

Paper City Savings recently opened a Plover office located at 2008 Cty Road HH, in The Windsor Center. A ribbon cutting ceremony took place on December 9th.

AMBASSADORS GIVE BACK IN MANY WAYS THANK YOU!

Volunteers, they are the lifeblood of any non-profit organization! For us, one of the most active and visible group of volunteers are part of the Ambassadors Club, which consists of 25 people.

Our Ambassadors attend many ribbon cutting ceremonies, grand opening celebrations, ground breakings, many meetings and Business Council and Foundation events. Members of this enthusiastic group generally lend a hand whenever they see something that needs doing!

Last year alone they gave back over 1,600 hours of volunteer time. That is truly amazing!

Many thanks to our terrific goodwill Ambassadors!

If you are interested in joining the Ambassadors Club, please contact Karen Schanock at kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com or at 715-344-1940 for more information.

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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 5:30 – 8:30 PM Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center 1001 Amber Avenue, Stevens Point Presented By:

Click Here To Register

The Portage County Business Council invites you for an evening of dining, socializing, recognition, and education.

Winners of the Decree of Excellence Award, Ambassador of the Year Award, Small Business of the Year and the President’s Award will all be recognized during the Portage County Business Council’s Annual Dinner and Silent Auction on Wednesday, January 27th.

Held at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center, 1001 Amber Avenue, Stevens Point, the evening extravaganza promises to be exciting with a social hour, complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar.

Those in attendance will also have the opportunity to bid on an endless list of Silent Auction items.

The Business Council extends an invitation to all Business Council members and their guests to attend the Annual Dinner.

Reservations are due by Thursday, January 21, 2016.

Our Master of Ceremonies for the event will be News Anchor from WSAW - TV 7 Mr. Jeff Thelen. Special thanks to our Exclusive Media Sponsor WSAW – TV 7 and Fox WZAW. Special thanks to our Award Sponsors CliftonLarsonAllen LLP, Delta Dental of Wisconsin, Ministry Health Care, and WoodTrust Bank

And thanks to our Reception Sponsors AT&T & Wisconsin Public Service

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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

2016 ANNUAL DINNER SCHEDULE & EVENTS Social 5:30-6:50PM Complimentary Hors d’ oeuvres, Cash Bar & 50/50 Raffle Silent Auction 5:30-6:50PM A spectacular array of jewelry, artwork, travel, sports and entertainment packages Dinner & Program 6:50-8:00PM Awards 8:00-8:30PM Presentation of Ambassador of the Year, Small Business of the Year Decree of Excellence Award and the 2015 President’s Award Recipient – David Worth, President/CEO of The Worth Company For Dinner, choose from three mouth-watering entrees: • • •

Roasted New York Strip Steak: Roasted Red Potatoes and Prince Edward Island Vegetable (Green Beans, Yellow Beans and Baby Carrots) Honey Lime Tilapia: Curried Basmati Rice and Prince Edward Island Vegetable Vegetable Pesto with Penne

Entrees also include a House Salad with choice of dressing, freshly baked rolls, a delicious Lemon Berry Mascarpone Cake for dessert, coffee, tea and milk.

Opportunities are available for our members wishing to play a greater role in our Silent Auction portion of the event.

As a Silent Auction donor, the Business Council promotes both your business and the merchandise and/or service in all printed promotional material.

Your business and donated item will also be promoted during the Annual Dinner to over 350 business people. Each donation will be recognized with a display at the Silent Auction, highlighting your business name.

Contribution ideas could be a specialty product and/or a service your business offers. Ideas might include a monthly floral delivery, one year hair care or drycleaning, oil changes, consulting services, golf lessons, artwork, jewelry, clothing or cellular phone services. Need more ideas? How about a weekend get-away package, home/office cleaning, a photography session or dining out certificates.

Be creative…Don’t miss this chance to promote your business to the business community.

For more information, or to register a Silent Auction contribution contact Karen Schanock at the Business Council Office: 715/344-1940 or kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com.

Thank you for your support.

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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

LEADERSHIP PORTAGE COUNTY Enjoy this recap of December’s LPC session: Our December LPC meeting focused on learning more about our legal system. We started the morning with discussions about our interim assignments. We had the opportunity to either do a “ride along” with a police officer or spend a few hours job shadowing with the 911 dispatch office. It really gave us more insight as to what happens behind the scenes. We also spent time discussing ethics and credibility within each of our businesses.

We then traveled over to the jail where we got to experience an “authentic” Portage County jail meal for lunch.

After lunch, we got a tour of the jail from Rocky Bolder, the Juvenile Detention Administrator.

We then headed to the courthouse where we met Patricia Baker, the Portage County Clerk of Courts, and Judge Flugaur from Branch 3. They explained how our court system works and the different departments within in the courthouse.

We headed back to the Annex where we met Kate Kipp from the Justiceworks program. She told us about all of the programs our county offers to help those in the system and to help prevent repeat offenders.

We ended our day with the LPC Alumni Christmas Party at Sunset Point Winery. It was the perfect end to our exciting day!

Photos from the December LPC session

**Change in Date for January LPC Session The January LPC session on Education and Workforce Development has been moved to Thursday, January 28, 2016.

Please mark your calendar with the change.

LPC Alumni Party at Sunset Point Winery

LPC Alumni Holiday Social LPC Alumni raised $110 for scholarships on December 17th as part of the LPC Alumni Holiday Social. The social is an annual tradition where alumni and current participants network after the December LPC session. The event was held at Sunset Point Winery where attendees socialized while enjoying a great selection of wines, beers and sodas made in Stevens Point. THANK YOU to the LPC Alumni that donated gift baskets and prizes for the raffle.

Give back to the community while connecting with your future workforce through upcoming events. To volunteer contact Judy Rannow at jrannow@portagecountybiz.com or 715-344-1940.

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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

PARTNERS IN EDUCATION

3RD GRADE CODING

PIE, Partners In Education invited businesses to Career & Technology Education Showcase at SPASH.

PIE Preparing for the Future: Girls in Technology @ MSTC On December 12th 50 Girl Scouts participated in the Partners In Education Preparing for the Future: Girls in Technology event at Mid-State Technical College in Stevens Point. The program utilizes the Girl Scout technology curriculum that is taught by female IT professionals. After a three-hour learning session, the participants showcase their projects and participate in an awards ceremony where they receive their Girl Scout Technology badge and PIE certificate.

Thank you to our volunteers: Lisa Bellavin, Ashley Allen, Lori Polzin, Nichole Becker, and Molly Jensen (Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection); Mindy King (UWSP); and Nicole Rice (NCWWDB).

PIE Reality Shop @ SPASH On December 16th, 160 SPASH students attended the Reality Shop.

This program was recognized in the December Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives Educational Attainment Division Education & Workforce News to Know.

This is an excerpt from that publication.

“Financial Literacy: This week, the Portage County Business Council (WI) will host Reality Shop, the cumulative event from a year-long financial literacy initiative for local high school students. Throughout the year in their classrooms, students have been learning to budget and make informed financial decisions. They will then put their learned knowledge into action during the Reality Shop by trying to balance a monthly budget with the help of chamber members. Students will be given a customized budget sheet with number of children, spouse, income and debt information. They will then interact with chamber volunteers who sell the items students need to balance their budget including transportation, housing, groceries, childcare, and student loans.”

Thank you to our volunteers: Jeff Ebel; Melissa Blenker (Community Insurance); Noall Silvester (Holiday Inn); Kathy Richardson (Investors Community Bank); Janice Schneider (Sam’s Club); Sarah Abrahamson, Stacey Omernick, Suzanne Campbell, & Kathy Brandl (Central City Credit Union); Max Trzebiatowski (UWSP); Dawn Klesmith (River Cities Bank); Keaton Schultz (KPR Brokers); Sherry Daniels & Shelby Wilson (UW-Extension); Jodi Pankow, Christa Bembenek, & Colt Nicklaus (Forward Service Corp.); Amanda Byrum & Meghan Cook (CoVantage Credit Union) Reality Shop Sponsor:

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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

PARTNERS IN EDUCATION CTE Showcase at SPASH On December 11th, over 150 students attended the Career & Technical Education Showcase. The event highlighted Career and Technical Education electives at SPASH. One of the goals of the Career & Technical Education Department throughout the Stevens Point Area Public School District is for all students to leave SPASH understanding the opportunities that are available to them as they begin to embark on their post-secondary planning. Partners In Education invited local businesses to showcase careers to their future workforce and their parents.

Early Registration for Leadership Portage County Recruitment for the 2016-2017 LPC program has begun and applications are now being accepted. Between January and March email fdn@portagecountybiz.com to hold LPC spots for your organization. With a simple email, we will hold the spots until you identify the individuals in your organization that you will be sending.

If you are an individual interested in participating in the program make sure to submit your application before June 15, 2016. The earlier the better. For more information about the 2016-2017 LPC program check out the brochure (link to brochure). To apply, complete the application (application link) and return it to the Portage County Business Council Foundation.

LPC Alumni Annual Meeting Make sure to register for the February 2, 2016 LPC Alumni Annual Meeting & Professional Development session with Wendy Mitch facilitating Leadership & Self-Deception. Cost is $25/person and covers breakfast and the session materials. All proceeds go toward the LPC program and LPC Scholarships.

Register Now

Some of the organizations that participated include: Marten Machining, Crystal Finishing, MSTC, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, and Wausau Windows and Doors.

Golden Apple Excellence in Education Great things happen in our schools all year so why only recognize them once a year? When you see or experience something great happening in our local schools let us know by filling out and returning a Golden Apple Excellence in Education Recognition form to Partners In Education: (please put a link to the form here). We will recognize excellence in education throughout the year through social media and the Active Voice newsletter. There will be a special recognition at the Spring Celebration on May 3, 2016.

Check out who has been recognized so far this year: http:// portagecountybiz.com/partners-education/golden-appleexcellence-in-education/

Training and Talent Development Professionals Group The PCBCF is starting a Training and Talent Development Professionals group to network and share ideas with others involved in delivering training. If you are interested in learning more or want to join please contact Judy Rannow.

Business-Education Forum Register now for the January 26th Business-Education Forum (registration link). The event will be held from 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM and will focus on legislation that impacts education and workforce development. Invited to attend include Senator Lassa, Representative Shankland, and BJ Dernbach (Dept. of Workforce Development).

Partners In Education Sponsors (at time of print): Delta Dental, Skyward and Sentry Insurance

PIE Partner School Districts: Rosholt, Stevens Point Area Catholic, Stevens Point Area Public, Stevens Point Christian Academy, Tomorrow River (Amherst), and Tri-County.

VISIT US ONLINE FOR UPCOMING PIE EVENTS! For more information regarding Leadership Portage County, Partners In Education or Workforce Development contact Judy Rannow, Director of Workforce Development, at 715-344-1940 or jrannow@portagecountybiz.com.

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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

UPCOMING WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

Mark Your Calendars!

January 2016 Business-Education Forum (January 26, 2016 from 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM)

Talent Show @ UWSP (April 19, 2016 from 3:30 PM - 7:30 PM) PIE Reality Shop @ MSTC (April 29, 2016 from 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM)

February 2016 National Job Shadow Day (February 2, 2016)

May 2016 Girls in Technology & Engineering for Girl Scouts @ MSTC (May TBD, 2016 from 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

LPC Alumni Annual Meeting (February 2, 2016 from 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM) March 2016 Post-Secondary Night @ SPASH (March 9, 2016 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

PCBCF Annual Spring Celebration @ TBD (May 3, 2016 from 5:00 PM 0 8:30 PM)

Career Exploration Day@SPASH (March 10, 2016 from 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM)

June 2016 LPC Alumni Empty Bowls Painting Challenge (June 22, 2016 from 9-4)

LPC Alumni Spring Social @ TBD (March 17th from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)

Business-Education Summit (Wednesday, June 15, 2016 from 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

Business-Education Forum (March 22, 2016 from 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM) April 2016 PIE Reality Shop @ SPASH (April 13, 2016 from 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM)

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

Volunteers are still needed to help with PIE programming for the 2015-2016 school year. Please see the Partners in Education Volunteer Form HERE for a list of ways you can share your talents and gifts!

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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

2015 pcbc / foundation board of DIRECTORS \\ Executive Board Erik Carlson - President, Ellis Stone Construction Company Ken Erler - Vice President, Sentry Insurance Doug Baldwin- Treasurer /Secretary, Delta Dental of Wisconsin Lorraine Avery- Member at Large, Associated Bank Lisa Sobczak - Member at Large, ABR Employment Services Keith Pilger- Past President, Anderson O’Brien Todd Kuckkahn -Executive Director, Portage County Business Council

Board of Directors Ray Ackerlund- Skyward Tom Altmann - Altmann Construction Company Lee Bush- Stevens Point Area Public Schools Tom Davies- Village of Plover Patty Dreier - Portage County Executive David Eckmann - University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point Jim Firminhac - WoodTrust Bank James Gifford - Portage County Board O. Phillip Idsvoog - Portage County Board Mike James- SentryWorld Deb Marten - Marten Machining Cherrie Marti - Ministry Saint Michael’s Hospital Derek Nest- CliftonLarsonAllen Richard O’Sullivan - Mid-State Technical College Jeremie Pavelski - Heartland Farms Inc. Jeff Salewsky - Stevens Point Brewery Dawn Thrun - International Bank of Amherst Mike Wiza - City of Stevens Point Ward Wolff - First Weber Group Realtors Robert Worth - The Worth Company (Director Emeritus) Kelly Zagrzebski- Wisconsin Public Service Corporation

Board Advisors Sara Brish - Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Volker Gaul - Mid-State Technical College Dan Mahoney - Village of Plover Michael Ostrowski - City of Stevens Point

meetings & other DATES \\ JANUARY 2016 13 Business X-Change, 7:30-8:30 AM, PCBC 14 Ambassadors Club Meeting, 8:00 AM, PCBC 18 Business Engagement Committee, 7:30 AM, PCBC 27 Annual Dinner, 5:30-8:30 PM, Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center FEBRUARY 2016 2 LPC Alumni Annual Meeting, 8:00 AM, TBA 11 A New ERA Workshop, 8:00 AM,1039 Ellis Street

CONNECT WITH US ON... www.PortageCountyBiz.com

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advertise with US \\ » CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO For questions, please contact Angel at 715-344-1940 or admin@portagecountybiz.com.

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

Email Addresses

The Active Voice

Todd Kuckkahn - Executive Director Karen Schanock - Director of Programs & Events Judy Rannow - Director of Workforce Development Kari Thompson - Business & Office Operations Director Tonya Kowalski - Director of Business Engagement Angel Whitehead - Administrative / Marketing Assistant

tkuckkah@portagecountybiz..com

Questions / Comments:

kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com

Angel Whitehead \\ admin@portagecountybiz.com

jrannow@portagecountybiz.com kthompso@portagecountybiz.com tkowalsk@portagecountybiz.com admin@portagecountybiz.com

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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

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THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER