July 2018 Active Voice Digital Magazine

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e |

PIE Social & Golden Apple Awards SURVEY SAYS......

2018

FARM TO FORK WITH AG TOUR portagecountybiz.com 1

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | 2 0 1 8

Save the Date Wednesday, January 30, 2019 Annual Dinner Awards Banquet and Silent Auction 5:30PM – 8:30PM

Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center, 1001 Amber Avenue, Stevens Point, WI The Portage County Business Council invites you for an evening of dining, socializing, recognition and education. The event features the presentation of the Ambassador of the Year Award, Small Business of the Year Award, Decree of Excellence Award, and the President’s Award.

Contact Karen Myers with questions and sponsorship opportunities at 715-344-1940 or kmyers@portagecountybiz.com.

2

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e |

2018

C ONTENTS MAGAZINE 5 survey says I hope a few of you remember Richard Dawson on Family Feud with his infamous line…Survey Says! Thanks to those of you who completed the survey we recently sent out to our members. It is the first one we have done in quite some time.

8 Farm to fork with Ag Tour The theme for this year’s event is “Farm to Fork”. The event will include a buffet style lunch consisting of grilled hamburgers, brats, potato salad, calico beans, chips, dessert and refreshments. Tour sites will include Okray Family Farms and Service Cold Storage. »» p.5

12 The ambassadors have been busy!

Five ribbon cuttings, one visit, and a ground breaking has kept the PCBC staff, ambassadors, and city officals busy with growing the community.

15 A Voice for Small Business The Small Business Environmental Council advises the DNR about how existing rules impact small businesses, provides a small business perspective on proposed regulations, and helps make DNR documents easier to understand. In order to be your voice, they need to hear from YOU!

17 join the Experience »» p.12

»» p.17

We could give you a whole slew of reasons to join Leadership Portage County’s Class of 2019 (10 months’ worth of reasons!) but instead, let our program alumni tell you what you’ll miss if you don’t join this awesome program.

»» p.8

3

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | 2 0 1 8

4

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e |

SURVEY SAYS…

2018

TODD KUCKKAHN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR I hope a few of you remember Richard Dawson on Family Feud with his infamous line…Survey Says! Thanks to those of you who completed the survey we recently sent out to our members. It is the first one we have done in quite some time.

Generally speaking, the results were very positive. There were several of you who made comments, which we appreciate. We can always do better and will continue to strive to bring you the value you deserve through your membership dollars, no matter what the level.

My last six digital magazine articles focused on what the Portage County Business Council (PCBC) values: engagement, growth, innovation, leadership, network development and partnerships. Survey says those are important to you as well. There was particular interest in business engagement and connecting members through network development.

Those interests make sense when you look at our top three rated events from 2017. Survey says Business After Hours (monthly), Business X-Change (monthly) and Women In Business (quarterly)

topped the list. Those events are all about engagement and network development. A few folks mentioned not knowing people at these events and that’s perfect. As a business leader the decision to engage and network lies with you. PCBC can’t do that for anybody. EVERY event we have I get the opportunity to meet many new people. My simple goal is to meet and get to know AT LEAST one new person at each event. Imagine if YOU did that only at Business After Hours, which are free. We hold twelve a year. That’s twelve new connections. And if those twelve connect, you now have 144 in your “network”. It is as simple as reaching out your hand, introducing yourself, and asking “What do you do when you aren’t at Business After Hours?” And what if you did that at other events?

In business, and sales particularly, the referral or recommendation is important. Survey says ninety-four percent of respondents were likely or very likely to recommend PCBC to a colleague. I like those odds. Of course, we are wondering what the other six percent are thinking. Please let us know how we can help you as a business. I can guess that some of

that may be a transactional mindset.

PCBC is not able to bring individual customers through your doors however through member benefits we can assist you in promoting your business and our community. Our real focus is on transformational benefits.

One transformational benefit is our Partners In Education (PIE) program.

We work closely with the K-12 and post-secondary educational institutions, in conjunction with area businesses. For example, on August 14 we are hosting a regional Inspire training for local businesses. Inspire connects the business community with students grades 6-12 in the public schools. Businesses get the chance to market and promote their business and students get to investigate the business world in Portage County and the surrounding region. Eventually students from other parts of the state will be able to connect with our local businesses signed up on Inspire.

PIE is also hosting a social and the Golden Apple Awards on August 23.

We will be recognizing teachers from the county, both public and private.

Anybody is welcome to attend and it will be held at the new Chemistry & Biology Building on the UWSP campus. Maybe somebody from your school won an award or was nominated? See page 10!

Even though the survey is complete, we will continue to change for the better of our community and members. We still want to hear from you. Sometimes that anecdotal information is the most value. Call, text, e-mail, write, and/or post us so we can continue to be your Chamber and Economic Development Organization.

5

YEAR HAS BEEN:

2018 PCBC RSHIP 2018 2018 2018 PCBC PCBC PCBC C 2018 PCBC 2018 PCBC 2018 PCBC MEMBERSHIP EY MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP HIP MEMBERSHIP P MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP SURVEY SURVEY SURVEY SURVEY SURVEY SURVEY SURVEY VIEW2018 FULL PCBC RESULTS MEMBERSHIP HERE! SURVEY RECOMMEND T h e A c t i v e V o i c e | 2 0 1 8PCBC TO A FRIEND OR COLLEAGUE, MEMBERS SAID:

POSITIVE NEUTRAL NEGATIVE

1%

Unlikely

90.5% 9.4% 0.0%

Positive Image

5%

WHEN ASKED ABOUT THE Likely VALUE OF THEIR PCBC 37% MEMBERSHIP IN THE LAST YEAR

WHEN ASKED HOW LIKELY THEY ARE TO RECOMMEND PCBC TO A FRIEND OR COLLEAGUE, MEMBERS SAID:

Very Likely

57%

MEMBERS BELIEVE PCBC STAFF ARE:

Neutral Image

Very Unlikely

23.7% said the value had increased

MEMBERS BELIEVE PCBC VALUES:

94%

Proactive

94%

Knowledgeable

97%

MEMBERS SAID PCBC'S MAGE OVER THE PAST YEAR HAS BEEN:

POSITIVE NEUTRAL NEGATIVE

WHEN ASKED ABOUT THE 94% VALUE OF THEIR PCBC

Professional

Knowledgeable

2018 PCBC MEMBERSHIP SURVEY

1%

Unlikely

5%

Likely

37% MEMBERSHIP IN THE LAST YEAR

23.7% said the value had increased

WHEN ASKED ABOUT THE VALUE OF THEIR Likely VALUE VALUE OFLikely THEIR VALUE OFPCBC THEIR OF THEIR PCBC PCBCPCBC VALUE OF THEIR PCBC Likely Likely Likely VALUE OFPCBC THEIR Likely Leadership Opportunities Staff VALUE OF THEIR PCBC LikelyMEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP IN THE LAST for Members 79.3% YE MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP IN THE IN LAST THE IN YEAR LAST THE LAST YEAR YEAR 37% IN37% THE LAST YEAR Neutral Image MEMBERSHIP IN THEYEAR LAST 37% 37% 37%37% MEMBERSHIP IN THE LAST YEAR 37% 23.7% said the value had increased

76.2% said the value had stayed the same 94% Knowledgeable

0% said the value had decreased

PCBC d the value had stayed the same MEMBERS BELIEVE THE LAST YEAR AST EAR YEAR he value had decreased WHEN ASKED

Very Unlikely

Committed to Business Success

96%

PCBC Staff

Professional RS SAID PCBC'S 76.2% said the value had stayed the same OVER THE PAST 97% Very Likely AS BEEN: 0% said the value had decreased Neutral Image WHEN ASKED Neutral Image Neutral Image Neutral ImageNeutral Image Neutral Image Neutral e ImageNeutral Image WHEN ASKED WHEN WHEN ASKED ASKED WHEN ASKED WHEN ASKED 57% Neutral Image MEMBERS SAID PCBC'S WHEN ASKED 90.5% EC'S HOW LIKELY MEMBERS MEMBERS SAID MEMBERS PCBC'S SAID PCBC'S SAID PCBC'S MEMBERS SAID PCBC'S MEMBERS SAID PCBC'S HOW LIKELY HOWHOW LIKELY LIKELY HOW LIKELY HOW LIKELY MEMBERS SAID PCBC'S MAGE OVER THE PAST LST 9.4% HOW LIKELY MAGE OVER MAGE THE MAGE OVER PAST OVER THEAn PAST THE PAST THEY ARE TO MAGE OVER THE PAST MAGE OVER THE PAST 83.4% Innovative Economy MEMBERS BELIEVE THEY TOTHEY ARE TO ARE THEYTHEY ARE ARE TO THEYTO ARE TO MAGE OVER THE PAST YEAR HAS BEEN: VE 0.0% YEAR HAS YEAR BEEN: YEAR HAS BEEN: HAS BEEN: THEY ARE TO YEAR HAS BEEN: YEAR HAS BEEN: RECOMMEND Positive ImageRECOMMEND PCBC STAFF ARE: Very Unlikely RECOMMEND RECOMMEND RECOMMEND RECOMMEND Very Unlikely Very Unlikely Very Unlikely Very Unlikely YEAR HAS Unlikely BEEN: Very Business Engagement 88.1% RECOMMEND PCBC TO A Very Unlikely 90.5% POSITIVE PCBC PCBC A PCBC TO APCBC TO A 1% PCBC TO ATO 90.5% 90.5% 90.5% POSITIVE POSITIVE POSITIVE % TO A 90.5% POSITIVE POSITIVE 90.5% 1% 1% 1% 1%NEUTRAL 1%Committed to PCBC TO A 9.4% 90.5% POSITIVE FRIEND OR Connecting Members 1% NEUTRALNEUTRAL NEUTRAL 9.4% 9.4% 9.4% % NEUTRAL 9.4% FRIEND FRIEND OR FRIEND OR OR NEUTRAL 9.4% FRIEND OR FRIEND OR Business Success ASKED ABOUT THE NEGATIVE Through Network 0.0% NEUTRAL 9.4% FRIEND OR COLLEAGUE, NEGATIVE NEGATIVE NEGATIVE 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% % NEGATIVE 0.0% NEGATIVE 0.0% Positive Image COLLEAGUE, COLLEAGUE, COLLEAGUE, Unlikely COLLEAGUE, Positive Image Positive Image Positive ImagePos Positive Image Positive Image Positive ImagePositive Image UnlikelyUnlikely Unlikely Development 88.2% Unlikely Unlikely NEGATIVE OF THEIR PCBCCOLLEAGUE, 0.0% COLLEAGUE, MEMBERS Positive Image 96% Unlikely MEMBERS MEMBERS MEMBERS MEMBERS MEMBERS 5% 5% 5% 5% 5% 5% RSHIP IN THE LAST YEAR MEMBERS SAID: Creating Community SAID: SAID: SAID: SAID:5% SAID: WHEN ASKED ABOUT THE Partnerships 83.2% d theTHE value had increased SAID: WHEN ASKED WHEN WHEN ASKED ABOUT ASKED ABOUT THE ABOUT THE THE THE PCBCWHEN OUT ASKED ABOUT THE HE WHEN ASKED ABOUT

94%

Proactive

57% 57% 57%

90.5% 9.4% 0.0%

83.2%

An Innovative Economy

Creating Community Partnerships

79.3%

1% 57%57%

Business Engagement

Leadership Opportunities for Members

83.9%

Connecting Members Through Network Development

Local Business Growth

Talent Attraction and Retention

PCBC VALUES: MEMBERS SAID PCBC'S said23.7% the value said 23.7% the had said value increased the had value increased had increased ad increased 23.7%23.7% said the value had increased HOW LIKELY eased 23.7% said the value had increased Local Business Growth 83.9% 23.7% said the value had increased MAGE OVER THE PAST 76.2% said the value had stayed the same THEY ARE TO 76.2% said 76.2% the value said 76.2% the had said value stayed the had value the stayed had same stayed the same the same ad stayed the same 76.2% said the value had stayed same ed same theAn same 76.2%the said the value had stayed the sa Innovative Economy 83.4% YEAR HAS BEEN: Talent Attraction and 76.2% said the value had stayed the same Very Likely RECOMMEND 0% said the value had decreased Very Likely Very Likely Very Likely Very Unlikely Very Likely Very Likely 0% said 0% the saidvalue the 0%value said 0% the had said value decreased thesaid had value decreased had decreased decreased had decreased sed 0% the value had decreased 79.5% Retention 88.1% PCBCBusiness TO A EngagementVery Likely 57% 90.5%0% said the value had decreased POSITIVE

NEUTRAL 57% 9.4% FRIEND OR Connecting Members MEMBERS BELIEVE tive Economy 83.4% NEGATIVE omy 83.4% 83.4% 0.0% MEMBERS MEMBERS BELIEVE MEMBERS BELIEVE BELIEVE MEMBERS BELIEVE MEMBERS BELIEVE COLLEAGUE, WHEN ASKED WHAT Through Network Unlikely BELIEVE MEMBERS PCBC STAFF ARE: PCBC STAFF PCBC ARE: PCBC STAFF STAFF ARE: ARE: PCBC STAFF ARE: PCBC STAFF ARE: Development 88.2% MEMBERS ngagement 88.1% nt88.1% 88.1% PCBC ARE: PCBC PLAYS IN 5%STAFFROLE SAID:Creating Community to to THE COMMUNITY, Committed Committed to Committed Committed to

97%

Proactive Proactive Proactive Proactive Proactive Proactive Proactive Knowledgeable

MEMBERS BELIEVE PCBC VALUES:

Business After Hours 81.9% Positive

Local Business Growth 83.9% Local Business Local Growth Business Local Business Growth Growth 83.9% 83.9% 83.9% Local Business Growth 83.9% Local Business Growth 83.4% Local Business Growth 83.9% Attraction Attraction TalentTalent and Attraction Talent Attraction and and and Talent Talent Attraction and Talent Attraction and 79.5% Retention 88.1% Talent Attraction and Retention Retention Retention 79.5% 79.5% Retention Retention 79.5% 79.5% 79.5% Retention

WHEN ASKED WHAT "With new members joining all the WHEN WHEN ASKED WHEN ASKED WHAT ASKED WHAT WHAT WHEN ASKED WHAT WHEN ASKED WHAT88.2% P 3 RATED PCBC Development time the value is always increasing."

WHEN ASKED WHAT ROLE PCBC PLAYS IN 96% ROLE ROLE PCBC ROLE ROLE PLAYS PCBC PCBC PLAYS IN PLAYS IN IN PCBC PLAYS IN ROLE PCBC PLAYS IN ENTS FROM 2017 ROLE PCBC PLAYS INPCBC Creating Community "The work that has done has THE COMMUNITY, COMMUNITY, THE THE COMMUNITY, COMMUNITY, THETHE COMMUNITY, Through Network

TOP 3 RATED PCBC EVENTS FROM 2017

MEMBERS BELIEVE PCBC VALUES: MEMBERS BELIEVE MEMBERS BELIEVE PCBC VALUES: PCBC VALUES: MEMBERS BELIEVE PCBC VALUES:

MEMBERS BELIEVE MEMBERS BELIEVE PCBC VALUES: MEMBERS BELIEVE PCBC VALUES: PCBC VALUES:

Professional 97% Professional

Professional

97% 97%

94% 94% 94%

Professional

97% 97% Professional

94% 94% 94%

Professional Professional 97%

94%

MEMBER COMMENTS: Connecting Members

Committed to Business Success

Neutral Image

Business Engagement

79.5%

Knowledgeable

94% Positive Image Knowledgeable Knowledgeable

79.5%

94% Knowledgeable 94%

An Innovative Economy HELPFULNESS

MEMBERS BELIEVE raction and STAFF ARE: nd PCBC 79.5%

94%

83.9%

Knowledgeable Knowledgeable

ness Growth wth 83.9% 83.9%

94%

57%

PCBC NETWORKING PCBC PCBC PCBCPCBC PCBC PCBC Staff Staff Staff StaffStaff Staff Staff COMMUNITY 94%

79.3% 79.3% Retention

37%

MEMBERS TOP 3 ANSWERS WERE:

83.4%

rs79.3%

88.1%

p Opportunities unities Very Likely Talent Attraction and

88.2%

79.5%

g rsMembers Partnerships Network ent 88.2% 88.2% 88.2% Leadership Opportunities for Members ommunity y ps83.2% 83.2% 83.2% Local Business Growth

AnAn Innovative Economy 83.4% An Innovative An Economy Innovative Innovative Economy 83.4% Economy 83.4% 83.4% An Innovative Economy 83.4% An Innovative Economy Positive AnImage Innovative Economy 83.4% Business Engagement Business Engagement Business Business Engagement 88.1% Engagement 88.1% 88.1% 88.1% Business Engagement 88.1% Business Engagement Business Engagement 88.1% Committed to Connecting Members Committed to Connecting Connecting Members Connecting Members MembersMembers WHEN ASKEDSuccess ABOUT THE Connecting Members Connecting Committed to Business 83.2% Through Network Business Success Business Business Success Success Success Through Business Success Business Connecting Members Through Network Through Through Network Network Network Through Network VALUE Business Success OF THEIR PCBC Likely Development Through Network Development Development Development 88.2% 88.2% 88.2% Development 88.2% 88.2% Development 96% 96% 96% 96% IN THE Development 88.2% 96%MEMBERSHIP 96%LAST YEAR 79.3% Creating Community 96% Creating Community Creating Creating Community Community Community Creating Community 23.7% said the value had increased Creating Partnerships 83.2% Creating Community Partnerships Partnerships Partnerships Partnerships 83.2% 83.2% Partnerships83.2% 83.2% 83.9% Partnerships 83.2% 76.2% said the value had stayed the same Leadership Opportunities Leadership Opportunities Leadership Leadership Opportunities Opportunities Leadership Opportunities Leadership Opportunities 0% said the value had decreased forfor Members 79.3% Leadership Opportunities for Members for Members Members 79.3% for Members 79.3% for Members79.3% 79.3% 79.5% for Members 79.3%

Business X-Change 82.2% Positive

8

8

8

8

7

8

7

Women in Business 85.3% Positive

97%

94%

Professional

THE COMMUNITY, always been of great value to our Partnerships 83.2% PCBC THE COMMUNITY, MEMBERS TOP 33 organization."

MEMBERS MEMBERS TOP MEMBERS 3 TOP TOP 3 MEMBERS TOP 3 TOP 3TOP RATED PCBC MEMBERS TOP 3 TOP 3TOP RATED TOP 3PCBC RATED 3PCBC RATED PCBC PCBC ED PCBCStaff MEMBERS TOP TOP 3 RATED PCBC C 3 RATED PCBC 3 Leadership Opportunities ANSWERS WERE: TOP "Great job PCBC! You are aWERE: true asset 3 to RATED PCBC ANSWERS ANSWERS ANSWERS WERE: WERE: WERE: ANSWERS WERE: iness After Hours ANSWERS

79.3% EVENTS FROM 2017 community!" for MembersEVENTS WERE: EVENTS EVENTS FROM EVENTS FROM 2017 FROM 2017 2017 OM FROM 2017 2017 7 2017 EVENTS FROM 2017 81.9% PositiveANSWERSour EVENTS FROMCALL 2017 US: 715-344-1940

94%

Growth "Top shelf all the Local way.Business Very Impressed."

83.9% NETWORKING NETWORKING NETWORKING NETWORKING NETWORKING NETWORKING NETWORKING Business After Hours "I would describe Talent the PCBC staff as Attraction and Business Business Business After After Hours Hours Hours siness X-Change ter Hours Business After Hours Hours rs After Hours EMAIL US:After 6 professional,COMMUNITY helpful, knowledgeable, fun79.5% AfterBusiness Business Hours Retention 81.9% Positive TKOWALSKI@PORTAGECOUNTYBIZ.COM COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY and fabulous!"

COMMUNITY 81.9% 81.9% Positive 81.9% Positive Positive 82.2% Positive ositive 81.9% Positive ve 81.9% Positive COMMUNITY

Proactive

Business after

Hours

MONDAY, AUGUST 20 - 5:00PM TO 7:00PM Hosted By

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e |

2018

REGISTER You are invited to attend our August X-Change...

• Wednesday, August 8, 2018, 7:30am – 8:30am • Portage County Business Council, Foundation Conference Room • While there is no cost to attend, the value of the information may be priceless • Continental Breakfast Provided Topic: “Stress: How Is It Impacting Your Health & Your Life” Dr. Nicole Mattson, Doctor of Chiropractic Owner/Operator of Embracing Life Chiropractic, LLC

Hosted By: NextHome Priority 20 Park Ridge Drive, Stevens Point Our host for the August event will be offering a variety of complimentary hot and cold appetizers, refreshments including wine, beer, soda & water, and several door prize giveaways. A 50/50 raffle will also be played.

About the Program: It is quite a common question to be asked. How stressed are you?

Why do I get stressed out? Participants at this X-Change will hear about the 3T’s - Thoughts, Traumas, and Toxins that effect our body on an everyday basis. We will further dive into how the constant bombardment of stress leads to a chronically stressed physiology, which in turn results in poor health expression/experience. The X-Change will finish with discussing ways to decrease our physiologic stress and how to better handle the 3T’s.

What is Business After Hours? A social event designed for and hosted by Business Council members to give business professionals an opportunity to network, share ideas, and have their facility seen by other members. The member host furnishes refreshments and hors d’oeuvres for the evening. A different Business Council member hosts Business After Hours every month.

Key Points Participants will Learn as a Result of Attending: • Understanding where health comes from and how we

properly define it.

• Understanding of how chronic stress

impacts/influences our health.

• How chronic stress can affect our lifestyle

and workplace productivity.

• Approaches to effectively manage the effects of

stress on our health and life.

Members are welcome to co-host the event with another Business Council member. Please call Karen Myers at 715344-1940 or email at kmyers@portagecountybiz.com to book the month you are interested in.

About our Speaker: Dr. Nicole Mattson is a graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic and received her Bachelor degree in Athletic Training from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Dr. Mattson has gone through Epic Pediatrics & Total Solutions educational trainings which discuss the topics of stress and physiology.

RSVP by Friday, August 17, 2018.

Click Here to register online.

Click Here for map.

What is the Business X-Change? A roundtable presentation which allows business owners and their employees the opportunity to discuss pertinent topics, learn from local industry leaders and, most importantly, learn from each other. Business X-Change meets regularly throughout the year from 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. at the Portage County Business Council office.

Special THANK YOU to Embracing Life Chiropractic for its sponsorship of this program.

For questions on this X-Change please contact 7 Karen Myers at 715-344-1940 or kmyers@portagecountybiz.com.

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | 2 0 1 8

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR:

Ag Tour 2018 is scheduled for Tuesday, September 11th. Planned by the Agri-Business Committee of the Portage County Business Council, you and your business associates are invited to attend.

The theme for this year’s event is “Farm to Fork”. The event will include a buffet style lunch consisting of grilled hamburgers, brats, potato salad, calico beans, chips, dessert and refreshments.

Tour sites will include Okray Family Farms and Service Cold Storage.

Okray Family Farms has been in business since 1905, and have evolved through the years to keep up with changes in the

recently went through a major renovation to increase their efficiency and productivity.

Attendees of this event will get a close look at some of the industry’s latest technological advancements that help potato packers deal with changing industry standards and labor challenges. There is a lot of work needed to get potatoes into grocery stores, and Okray Family Farms is excited to share the process with us.

Service Cold Storage started in 2014 with a dream by a group of local entrepreneurs who are now building their third expansion onto a 100% temperature controlled facility. Priding themselves on providing best in class service levels combined industry. This year they are happy to have with technology exceeding the industry, the PCBC Ag Tour feature their business, have enabled them to partner with so they can discuss the challenges they fortune 100 customers allowing them to face and how they are working through continue to grow. them. Participants will get a look at their entire process, from harvesting potatoes Participants will tour a 425,000 square to the final packaged product. foot, state of the art freezer and cooler storage that will freeze and store Harvesting and storing potatoes is a over 20,000 pallets of local agriculture very complex operation. Once their production this year alone. The facility potatoes are done growing, it is a race is fully controlled by an ammonia against time. They have to work with refrigeration system with wireless weather, equipment, and labor challenges RF access points to give visibility to to get their product safely into storage customer product no matter where it is before the freeze. They will discuss the located within the 55,000 pallet spaces details of deciding when to harvest, and of the facility. how they keep their potatoes in good condition through the winter and into They are a fully paperless facility with an IT the following summer. infrastructure that directs the employees using a wireless task driven WMS system.

Throughout the year, they wash, grade, They receive and ship an average of 100 and package potatoes that are shipped truckloads of product a day and during 8 the country. Their packing shed harvest season that number can increase across

up to 150 truckloads.

Placing product 46 feet in the air pooled with exceeding industry technology, it is a very frigid, must see sight in central Wisconsin! As of June 1 2018, Service Cold Storage was acquired by Lineage Logistics – the 2nd largest temperature controlled facility company in the world opening the growth potential even further.

The entire event includes tour stops, bus transportation, a picnic lunch & guest speaker, socializing and education.

Online registration will open soon, along with more detailed information including event agenda and times. Cost is only $25 person.

For questions contact Karen Myers at 715-344-1940 or kmyers@portagecountybiz.com

VAN HORN AUTOMOTIVE GROUP PURCHASES NISSAN OF STEVENS POINT

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e |

2018

PCBC introduces Intern Andrew Roe Operations Intern 2018

NEWSROOM

Expanding their Wisconsin locations Fond du Lac, Lomira, Stoughton, and manufacturer brands Milwaukee, Oconomowoc and Newhall, Iowa. This is the 1st Nissan Stevens Point, WI, July 2, 2018 – dealership for the group which carries The Van Horn Automotive Group has several manufacturers, including: announced the purchase of Stevens Chevrolet, Ford, Chrysler, Dodge, Point Nissan from Home Run Auto Jeep, Ram, Fiat, Hyundai and Mazda.

Group, located at 301 Green Avenue N, Stevens Point, WI. The acquisition “Nissan is a brand we’ve wanted to marks the 1st Nissan dealership for the sell for years, and Stevens Point is a Van Horn Automotive Group, which great location; very accessible from now has 13 total locations throughout every direction,” says Chuck Van Wisconsin and Iowa.

Horn, co-CEO Van Horn Automotive Group. “It took the right opportunity to make this possible.”

With plans for a greater new and used inventory and further developing the service center, Van Horn aims to retain and increase the staff of employees.

“We believe in investing in all the communities that we serve,” said Dick Strong, Chief Operating Officer of Van Horn Automotive Group. Teresa Van Horn, co-CEO Van Horn Automotive Group adds, “The Stevens Point and Portage County community is strong, with a diverse mix of business, education, culture and the arts. We’re humbled to operate in such a vibrant area.”

Van Horn Nissan of Stevens Point is the 13th dealership location for the Van Horn Automotive Group which operates in several areas across the state of Wisconsin, including: Plymouth, Sheboygan, Manitowoc,

The Van Horn Automotive Group is a family born, employee owned automotive group with headquarters in Plymouth, Wisconsin. Founded in 1966

by Joe Van Horn as a single Chevrolet dealership, and purchased by his children: Chuck, Teresa and JP Van Horn, the Van Horn Automotive Group has grown to include 13 automotive dealerships, a finance company, a real estate business and several insurance companies. The group employs over 500 people throughout Wisconsin and Iowa. For employment opportunities visit the Careers page at www.vhcars. com.

CONTACT: Ryan Thiel Van Horn Automotive Group 920-892-6466 rthiel@vhcars.com www.vhcars.com

Andrew is a University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point student currently seeking his Master’s degree in Organizational Communication.

Andrew is studying how communication professionals work as a team within small organizations. He works closely with the PCBC team on event planning, marketing, and data analysis. Andrew is also working to update and create new content for PCBC’s Reality workshops, the new PCBC website, and Leadership Portage County Curriculum. Additionally, Andrew is working to create new promotional material for current and prospective PCBC members.

When he isn’t typing away, he can usually be found playing with his two cats, reading, or biking through Stevens Point and on the Green Circle trail. Andrew hopes to finish his Master’s degree and then study for his Doctoral degree in organizational communication ethics in Sweden.

STOP IN AND SAY HELLO!

9

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | 2 0 1 8

PARTNERS IN EDUCATION

PIE SOCIAL & GOLDEN APPLE AWARDS THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 2018 5:00-7:00 PM

10

The 2018 Excellence in Education Award winner is: Mrs. Sarah Lima Sarah is a Math & ELA teacher at Rosholt Middle School who has been teaching for 18 years. Her nomination displayed Sarah’s true commitment, not only to building relationships with her students, but to continuing her professional development and education. She is the only teacher on the Rosholt staff who is Nationally Board Certified. Mrs. Lima was nominated by Principal Jim Grygleski.

In addition to Sarah, the other nominees are: • Emily Butz, 1st grade at Pacelli Catholic Schools • Nancy Gosh, 3rd grade at Amherst School District • Carla Klismith, 4K at Stevens Point Area Public Schools • Kim La Belle, K at Pacelli Catholic Schools • Michelle Nerren, Learning Resources at Pacelli High School, Pacelli Catholic Schools • Kelly Rowe, 4K at Stevens Point Area Public Schools • Jessica Tornow, K/1st grade at Stevens Point Christian Academy • Kris Zasada, K at Stevens Point Area Public Schools • Joseph Zawacki, 7th grade at Pacelli Catholic Schools

Hole Sponsorship s Company Name Opportunities.

Color Logo

Color Logo on Premium Sat., September 8, 2018 Size with Gold Border Color Logo on Premium Size River Golf Club with BlackWisconsin Border

PLOVER VFW 14TH ANNUAL

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e |

2018

GOLF

Mike Helgert Scramble Memorial

nage on the course.The Donors and Hole proceeds from the golf scramble will assist our Post in recognition at our banquet and a supporting area Veteran needs and also help with the age County Gazette. continued support of the Fisher House at the Zablocki VA

hospital in Milwaukee.

cash or prize donation, please call the

m

018

llowing VFW

r

er

kets on goodie e soda ner.

hy

le

Sponsorship Levels Bronze Silver Gold

$100 $250 $500

Company Name Color Logo Color Logo on Premium Size with Gold Border Color Logo on Premium Size with Black Border

Register @ Platinum $1,000 PloverVFW.org

Hole sponsors will have signage on the course. Donors and Hole Sponsors will receive name recognition at our banquet and a VETERANS “Thank You” ad in the Portage County Gazette.

$40

If you would like to make a cash or prize donation, please call the post at 715.341.8414.

4-Person Team

Saturday, Sept 8, 2018 Registration: 11am, Tee time: 12noon Buffet dinner immediately following golf scramble @ Plover VFW

Price: $80/golfer Wisconsin River Golf Club Members: $60/golfer

Includes door prizes, 2 drink tickets on the course, green fees, cart, goodie bag, and awards dinner. Free soda and tap beer during the dinner.

Register @ PloverVFW.org VETERANS $40

Awards: 1st Place Trophy • Mulligans • Basket Raffle • Special Hole Events Attending Dinner Only: $20/person

11

Ambassador sh

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | 2 0 1 8

Ageless Aviation Fly-in dedication ceremony on June 20th

Re/Max – Central Wisconsin Realty July 12th

Village of Plover Bandshell July 29th

12

Main Street Taps July 9th

Plover VFW 10262 July 16th

Target Store - Stevens Point July 30th

Altmann Construction Company Inc - Russell Gymnastics July 25th

o w T h e i r S u p p o r t

Ambassador

of the

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e |

2018

2nd

Dan Blumenstein AKA BlumenAWESOME On a quarterly basis, the Ambassadors Club takes the opportunity to recognize one of its members for outstanding commitment. This commitment is measured by their participation in meetings, events, grand openings and ribbon cutting ceremonies during a three-month timeframe.

During the second quarter of 2018, Dan Blumenstein was named the Ambassador of the Quarter.

Dan is the Director of Client Support of Rack Industrial, an IT support and business services company based out of Stevens Point and Kronenwetter. He has been an Ambassador since 2014.

Congratulations Dan on your recent achievement. The Business Council Board of Directors, Ambassadors Club and staff appreciate your efforts.

Save the Date 10-26-2018

17th Annual

6:00PM – 9:00PM Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center, 1001 Amber Avenue, Stevens Point, WI Join us for an international journey as we sample a selection of wines from around the world featured by The Bottle Stop. A tastetempting array of fine cuisine prepared by the Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center and Rockman's Catering, a silent auction, beer bars and soft live jazz music to complement the evening.

Sponsorship Opportunities are Now Available! Contact Karen Myers for details at 715-344-1940 or kmyers@portagecountybiz.com.

13

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | 2 0 1 8

ARE YOU L0OKING FOR EMPLOYEES?

SAVE THE DATE

OCTOBER 4 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM

CONTACT TONYA KOWALSKI AT TKOWALSKI@PORTAGECOUNTYBIZ.COM OR 715-344-1940.

10th Annual Bike for Boys & Girls Club

NEWSROOM

On Saturday, August 4, 2018, the Boys & Girls Club of Portage County will host their 10th annual Bike for Boys & Girls Club event, starting at AIG Travel.

Bike for Boys & Girls Club will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Participants will receive a free t-shirt, drawstring bag, water bottle, frisbee, pair of sunglasses, and lunch. Portesi’s and Subway will be teaming up to provide a free, refreshing lunch after a beautiful ride through Portage County.

This year, the Club has added a twist to its event. As participants cross the finish line, they will enter a carnival-like atmosphere.

Children and families of all ages will be able to enjoy inflatables, yard games, King Cone ice cream, and so much more.

From youth just learning how to ride a bike,

14

to people who have been riding for decades, this bike ride is for everyone. Pick between the 4, 8, 13, 20, or 60 mile route and enjoy the day with family and friends, making a difference in the lives of Portage County kids. Come out and join Gerald Whipps, (78 years old) who is returning for his 3rd time in the Bike for Boys & Girls Club event on his 35-year-old Schwinn 12-speed bike for the 20 mile route.

The Bike for Boys & Girls Club event is a fundraiser for the Boys & Girls Club of Portage County, an organization whose sole purpose is to give over 2,000 youth in Portage County each year, a safe and fun place where they can get active, learn, grow and make new friends. With the community’s participation, we can continue changing the lives of local youth, while they are also opening doors for

the future leaders of Portage County. The Boys & Girls Club is also in need of 20 inch bikes in new or gently used condition to be used for Bike Club as well as this upcoming event. Please bring bikes to the front desk of the Boys & Girls Club Berard Center, 941 Michigan Avenue in Stevens Point, and the Club staff will disperse them to one of the seven Club sites located in Portage County.

If local citizens would like to volunteer, the Club is also looking for people to help tune-up bikes, as well as teach bike repair to Club youth.

For more information go to www.bgclubpc.org/bike4bgc

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e |

2018

15

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | 2 0 1 8

Have you heard about Inspire? Maybe you signed up a while ago, but have forgotten what it’s about? Never heard of it? This training is for you.

Inspire Central Wisconsin is a career exploration tool that connects local 6th-12th grade students with employers and careers in their area. Through Inspire students are able to learn about potential career paths and receive first-hand knowledge from people in their community. Students can ask questions of employees and companies to learn more about the world of work and make informed decisions for their future. Inspire also allows for student-led requests for job shadows, company tours, informational interviews and more.

Join us to learn how you can use this innovative tool.

Whether you’ve signed up already, but need to learn more, or have never registered for Inspire, you’ll walk away with an understanding of the system and best practices for engagement.

Session presenter: Adrian Crabb, Inspire Madison Region

16

Regional Inspire training held in Stevens Point Tuesday, August 14, 2018 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM (includes lunch) at Mid-State Technical College, Stevens Point Campus Room 417 1001 Centerpoint Drive, Stevens Point Agenda:  11:00-Noon: Introduction to Inspire  12:00-12:45: Lunch, Signing Up, and Q&A  12:45-1:45: Getting to deeper engagement with students and schools  1:45-2:00: Q&A and depart * Participants are encouraged to bring a laptop or tablet if available to register onsite. This session will be recorded. If you are unable to attend, and wish to view the recorded session, please contact Kayla Rombalski, talent@portagecountybiz.com.

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e |

2018

The Best Program for Portage County’s Leaders of Today and Tomorrow The Leadership Portage County (LPC) Class of 2019 will begin on August 16, 2018. There is still time to join this dynamic program. LPC's 10-month curriculum is an intensive, county-oriented leadership development program designed to give potential and emerging leaders the skills, knowledge, and ongoing support they need to succeed. As a participant in LPC, you will grow professionally and personally from a variety of leadership, team building, communication and self-awareness exercises.

LEARN MORE AND APPLY!

17

BUSINESS BUSINESS TOOLS for Success TOOLS for Success BUSINESS TOOLS for BUSINESS Success Every business in BUSINESS Success TOOLS for your community Every business in Success is either starting up, BUSINESS your community Every business in Success growing or struggling . is either starting up , your community

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | 2 0 1 8

866.429.1527 kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info toolsforbusiness.info Gain access to over 866.429.1527

600 free

toolsforbusiness.info kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info and

low-cost resources kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info 866.429.1527 toolsforbusiness.info to help you start 866.429.1527 kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info and grow your toolsforbusiness.info business!

866.429.1527

kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info

866.429.1527

Every business in growing or struggling . is either starting up , Every business in your community growing or struggling your community is either starting Every business needs Every business in upa, . is either starting up, .

Every business in your community growing or struggling for toolsforbusiness.info toolsforbusiness.info little help either Every business in your community growing orkreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info struggling . kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info starting up , is either for toolsforbusiness.info toolsforbusiness.info your community 866.429.1527 866.429.1527 or is either starting up , Every business in growing or struggling . for toolsforbusiness.info kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info isyour either starting up, . for growing orkreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info struggling toolsforbusiness.info toolsforbusiness.info community 866.429.1527 866.429.1527 Let us be your resource!. kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info growing or struggling 866.429.1527 up, toolsforbusiness.info isfor either starting for toolsforbusiness.info toolsforbusiness.info 866.429.1527 866.429.1527 kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info growing orkreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info struggling.

OLS SINESS OLS starting up growing.

LS uccess SINESS OLS INESS uccess LS SINESS OLS ccess uccess INESS SINESS ccess uccess

Position your organization as the go-to place for the resources and Position your organization the information they needaswith go-to place resources and Toolsfor forthe Business Success.

Position your organization the information they needaswith Tools for Business Success offers business go-to place for resources and Tools forthe Business Success.

866.429.1527 assistance organizations aas 866.429.1527 866.429.1527 Position your organization the information they needwebsite with customized for their communities, featuring Tools for Business Success offers business go-to place for the resources Position your organization asand the Tools Business Success. local,for state and federal resources to assistance organizations a website resources4business.info/portagecountybiz/ information they needfeaturing with business owners with the go-to placeprovide for the resources and customized for their communities, Tools for Business Success business information they need tooffers beSuccess. successful.

Position your organization aswith the Tools local,for stateBusiness andthey federal resources to information need assistance organizations a website toolsforbusiness.info toolsforbusiness.info toolsforbusiness.in toolsforbusiness.info Our Start-up Help section includes provide business owners with the go-to place for the resources and Position your organization as the Tools fortheir Business Success. customized for communities, featuring • Business Entity Wizard – to help you information they need tooffers be successful.

Tools for Business Success business kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info kreynolds@toolsforb information they need with go-to the place for the resources and local, state and federal resources to choose right type of legal entity Position your organization as assistance organizations a the website provide business owners with the Tools for Business Success offers 866.429.1527 866.429.1527 866.429.1527 • All of theinformation necessary forms to866.429.1527 create abusiness Tools for Business Success. they need with customized for their communities, featuring go-to place for the resources and information theyorganizations need to be successful. business entity assistance a website local, state and federal resources Tools for Business Success.

Position your organization as theto • Sales tax, quarterlyforestimated tax and information they need with customized their communities, featuring Tools for Business Success offers business provide business owners with the other forms required throughout year local, state and federalthe resources to go-to place for the resources and assistance organizations a website Tools for Business Success. they need to be successful.

Tools forinformation Business Success offers business provide business ownersfeaturing with the for their communities, information they need with Find all thecustomized resources you need in one place assistance organizations a website information they need to beresources successful. local, state and federal to Tools for Business Success offers business customized theirBusiness communities, featuring Tools for • Local, State, and for Federal ProgramsSuccess. provide business owners with the

TOOLS for OOLS forTOOLS for BUSINESS USINESSBUSINESS Success SuccessSuccess

g. g. . g. .g.

18

• • • •

assistance organizations a website local, state and federal resources to to help businesses information need to befeaturing successful. customized for theirthey communities, Easy Ways tofor “Go Green” provide business owners the Tools Business Success offerswith business local, state and federal resources to Marketinginformation and Selling Resources they need to be successful. assistance organizations a website provide and business owners with the Disaster Preparation Recovery customized for their communities, featuring AND MORE....... information they need to be successful. local, state and federal resources to

GUEST SPEAKER PAULA HOULIHAN

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e |

REGISTER 2017 Event

2018

Presented by

September 20, 2018 11:15AM to 1:00PM Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center, 1001 Amber Avenue, Stevens Point Cost: $27/Person for PCBC Members $33/Person for Prospective Members

Title of Presentation: “How to Align with Yourself for Success!”

About Our Program: Discover four powerful shifts that can lead to the life of your dreams by deepening relationships, eliminating energy suckers, reclaiming precious “me-time”, and redefining your perspective on work!

Key Points that our audience will take home: How you can enjoy the high level of success you’ve achieved in business in ALL areas of your life.

Why the thing that’s created your success at work may actually be working against you in your personal life…in fact, it’s a big reason why you never seem to have enough time in the day.

For questions contact Karen Myers at 715-344-1940 or kmyers@ portagecountybiz.com.

Special Thanks to our Media Sponsor – Midwest Communications

•

The OLD SUCCESS MODEL and why it doesn’t work - especially for women.

•

How you can create balance in your busy schedule so you can fully enjoy the life you’ve worked so hard to build…now. Not some distant day in the future.

•

Learning strategies to share and set expectations.

•

Understanding role modeling and mentorship.

About Our Speaker: Paula Houlihan is a women’s success mentor, award winning speaker and author. She empowers women around the world to create success on your terms and live a life of purpose, passion, and pleasure.

She knows that when you follow your bliss, magic happens! Paula teaches her clients how to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary and that includes your life, your business and your relationship with money.

Paula lives her bliss with no apologies, knowing the key to real and lasting success is simply being your brilliant self. Paula is a certified Intrinsic Life Coach and founder of Paula Houlihan International LLC, Sexy Haute Success™ and PaulaHoulihan.com. She is an active member of Toastmasters International, has a degree in Psychology and is a lifetime member of Psi Chi, the International Honor Society for Psychology.

Don’t Miss This Event! Register Early as Spots Fill Quickly!

19

U P COMING EV EN TS T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | 2 0 1 8

CALENDAR

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER 06

SBDC CHAMBER EDUCATION SERIES

08

BUSINESS X-CHANGE

10

IGNITE: PAINT & PINTS

08

IGNITE L3 - NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

11

AG TOUR

14

INSPIRE TRAINING FOR BUSINESSES

12

BUSINESS X-CHANGE

16

BRE INITIATIVE

13

GOVERNMENT INVOLVEMENT WORKSHOP

13 SALESNET

16 SALESNET

13

EXECUTIVE ROUNDTABLE

16-17 LEADERSHIP PORTAGE COUNTY BEGINS

(ASPIRE & ENGAGE MEMBERS ONLY)

20

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

17

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

23

IGNITE: BARK & BRUSH

20

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

23

PARTNERS IN EDUCATION SOCIAL & GOLDEN APPLE AWARDS

26

IGNITE BSP: FELTZ DAIRY FARM AND STORE

27

FMLA BASICS WORKSHOP

29

BRE INITIATIVE

contact us Portage County Business Council, Inc. 5501 Vern Holmes Drive | Stevens Point, WI 54482 715-344-1940 | www.portagecountybiz.com Todd Kuckkahn Executive Director tkuckkahn@portagecountybiz..com

Kayla Rombalski Director of Talent Development talent@portagecountybiz.com

Karen Myers Director of Programs & Events kmyers@portagecountybiz.com

Tonya Kowalski Director of Business Engagement tkowalski@portagecountybiz.com

20

Portage County Business Council @PoCoBiz Portage County Business Council

Angel Whitehead Marketing Communications Coordinator admin@portagecountybiz.com