September 2016 Active Voice Digital Magazine

Events

WINES OF THE WORLD Newsroom

Talent Development

LEADERSHIP PORTAGE COUNTY

THE BOTTLE STOP TURNS FIVE

The Bottle Stop celebrated 5 years in business. Matt Lazarski had always wanted his own beverage business.

Like many students heading back to school this fall, the Leadership Portage County Class of 2016-17 anxiously began their 10-month program.

Events

Insights

NFL STRATEGIES TO ATTRACT NEW BUSINESS

2016 LEGISLATIVE CANDIDATE FORUM

The Portage County Business Council’s Government Relations Committee is holding a Legislative Candidate Forum on Friday, September 16 at the Stevens Point Country Club.

PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL

PCBC | September 2016

Business after »» p. 9

Hours “Our great schools, low cost of living, and abundant recreational activities make Portage County a

»» p. 11

great place to live and work.”

–Scott Glinski, President of Skyward »» p. 4

»» p. 16

The Active Voice is a Benefit for PCBC Members

Portage County Business Council, Inc. 5501 Vern Holmes Drive Stevens Point, WI 54482 715-344-1940 www.portagecountybiz.com Todd Kuckkahn - Executive Director Karen Schanock - Director of Programs & Events Kayla Rombalski- Director of Talent Development Kari Thompson - Director of Operations Tonya Kowalski - Director of Business Engagement Angel Whitehead - Marketing Communications Coordinator Portage County Business Council

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CONTACTS:

@PoCoBiz

tkuckkah@portagecountybiz..com kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com talent@portagecountybiz.com acctg@portagecountybiz.com tkowalsk@portagecountybiz.com admin@portagecountybiz.com Portage County Business Council

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | D i g i t a l M a g a z i n e

CONTENTS 4 What do you do when you’re not.......

Regardless of the final impact, it is fair to say we focus on business retention and attraction as well as employee retention and attraction.

7 APPLYING NFL STRATEGIES TO ATTRACT NEW BUSINESSES Since the NFL season is just around the corner, I’ve been thinking about what would happen if we applied some of the same strategies used by NFL teams to attract more businesses and entrepreneurs to Portage County.

9 Business After Hours

»» p. 12

»» p. 7

What is Business After Hours? A social experience designed for and hosted

by Business Council members to give business professionals an opportunity for network development, sharing ideas, and learn about the business host.

11 Ambassadors & staff show their support Community leaders joined Aspirus on August 23rd for a groundbreaking ceremony at the Aspirus Stevens Point Clinic.

12 Wines of the world

Join us on October 28, from 6:00PM – 9:00PM at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center, 1001 Amber Avenue, Stevens Point for an international journey as we sample a selection of wines from around the world. »» p. 15

15 2016 Legislative Candidate Forum The Portage County Business Council’s Government Relations Committee is holding a Legislative Candidate Forum on Friday, September 16 at the Stevens Point Country Club.

16 The bottle stop turns five

Working for other successful locally-owned enterprises-a liquor distributor, a bar/restaurant and a retail beverage outlet-he developed and honed the skills he knew he would need.

19 LEadership portage county begins »» p.19

Like many students heading back to school this fall, the Leadership Portage County Class of 2016-17 anxiously began their 10-month program on Aug. 18-19.

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PCBC | September 2016

W HAT D O YOU D O W HE N YOU ’R E NOT. . .

DIRECTOR’S INSIGHT - TODD KUCKKAHN

T

HE POR TAGE COUNT Y Business Council’s (PCBC) strategic direction is being shaped as you are reading this article. Regardless of the final impact, it is fair to say we focus on business retention and attraction as well as employee retention and attraction. It is also fair to say partnerships, collaboration, and relationships are key to any of our Even with all of our technological community’s success. communication, network development is still hand-toI have to give a lot of credit for hand and not finger-to-finger (i.e. my thoughts and differentiation texting). Building relationships is of jargon to Kyle Sexton, not always easy, however. Not Marketing Strategist. We worked everyone can jump up, reach with Kyle recently on our value- out their hand, and begin a based member refocusing and conversation. So you may ask new strategies for remarkable how do I make that leap (did you membership. Kyle draws a see the pun—jump/leap)? clear distinction between the jargon—networking and network I recently spoke to our new development. He states that Leadership Portage County class. networking is where you meet new It’s a great program and goes way people. Network development is beyond network development. building relationships.

That’s for another story, though.

The tip I gave them was if you When PCBC holds our monthly don’t know somebody and maybe Business After Hours events, I don’t feel comfortable starting a challenge those in attendance conversation, ask them what they to work on building at least one do when they’re not doing what new relationship at the event they are doing at that moment. (i.e. network development). If members are wise about their At Business After Hours, it would membership and attend one go like this: Hi Chris—what do you every month, that would be do when you aren’t at Business twelve new relationships built After Hours. That accomplishes in a membership year. Don’t get several things. It shows Chris you me wrong, it’s great to meet new care. It opens the door. Chris’s people, but there is always time response will tell you Chris’s for that.

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interests. That’s the beginning of a quality business relationship in a non-threatening way. The other side of this would be too “salesy” by walking up to Chris and leading with a business card, all the while talking only about your product or service. That’s not even networking, much less network development.

Through mutual relationships come mutually beneficial partnerships and then the business community working together to solve our strategic direction.

Working together strategically, we attract more employees, retain more businesses and employees and eventually attract more businesses to fill in any gaps we might have in the community.

So, whether you come to our September Business After Hours, Ag Tour, SalesNet, Business X-Change, Women In Business or Legislative Forum, think about network development and the simple way to start that relationship. We dare you to ask questions and listen!

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | D i g i t a l M a g a z i n e

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6th 10:00am – 7:00pm NOEL HANGAR

(located on the Stevens Point Municipal Airport grounds)

4501 Hwy 66, Stevens Point

TO REGISTER AND FOR MORE DETAILS, GO TO: http://business.portagecountybiz.com/events/details/2016-portage-county-business-council-job-fair-2989

Thank you to our sponsors:

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PCBC | September 2016

The facility includes a training room capable of hosting over 80 people classroom style plus many more features.

The new facility has environmental sustainability in mind and has a 95kW photovoltaic solar array on its roof.

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

Please note TOUR RULES / DRESS CODE: •

Comfortable walking shoes (ABSOLUTELY NO open toes, NO high heels)

Ag Tour 2016 is set for Tuesday, September 13th from 11:30am to 5:00pm. Planned by the Agri-Business Committee of the Portage County Business Council, you and your business associates are invited to attend.

Special thanks to our Presenting Sponsors:

The theme for this year’s event is “Every Day is Earth Day on a Farm”. The event begins with a picnic lunch featuring grilled hamburgers, brats, potato salad, calico beans, chips, dessert and more. During lunch we will hear from Guest Speaker – Danny Wysocky of AdamsColumbia Electric Cooperative. His presentation is entitled “Innovative Ways Farmers & Electricity Providers Work Together to Meet Current and Future Power Needs”.

After lunch, we will tour Heartland Farms, a fifth generation potato and vegetable farm which operates over 24,000 acres of farmland.

Heartland is known for their progressive and fast-paced approach to utilizing technology to better their crop, their community, and the environment. Attendees will see their new 37,000 square foot Farm Operations, Technology, and Training Center (FOTTC) and other areas of the farm.

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Tuesday, September 13, 2016 Agenda 11:30AM: Bus Pickup at Wisconsin Public Service (WPS),

2001 Plover Rd, Plover (next to Menards).

Vehicles will be left in parking lot of WPS. 12:15PM:

Picnic lunch and guest speaker at Heartland Farms, Inc.

12:45PM:

Tour of Heartland Farms, Inc.

5:00PM:

Return to WPS Corporation

Cost is only $23 person.

ONLY A FEW SEATS REMAIN. REGISTER SOON!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER. For questions contact Karen Schanock at 715-344-1940 or kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com.

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | D i g i t a l M a g a z i n e

APPLYING NFL STRATEGIES TO ATTRACT NEW BUSINESSES INSIGHT CREATE A WINNING

By Scott Glinski, President of Skyward I’m a lifelong Minnesota Viking fan.

There, I said it.

Here among the cheese heads, cheering for the Vikings isn’t easy. Every fall when the leaves change colors and the weather turns cold, I’m a small purple island in a sea of green and gold.

Since the NFL season is just around the corner, I’ve been thinking about what would happen if we applied some of the same strategies used

by NFL teams to attract more businesses and entrepreneurs to Portage County. Let’s take a look.

BUILD THROUGH THE DRAFT Much like NFL teams build their rosters through the draft, Skyward works directly with local schools to develop early interest in technology.

If we are to maintain a full pipeline for future talent, there’s no better way than by showing kids the career opportunities that are already available right here in Portage County.

Is it working? You bet! At last count, 243 of Skyward’s 526 employees have degrees from either UWSP or MSTC—and a large percentage of those started out right here in the local schools. We’re already surrounded by talent; we just need to find more ways to keep it here.

CULTURE Remember when getting traded to the Packers was the equivalent of being sent to Siberia? No player or coach wanted to go there. How did they change the culture to make Green Bay an attractive destination?

They brought in Mike Holmgren, Brett Favre, and Reggie White. Suddenly, top free agents were clamoring to be part of the smallest market in pro sports.

As a local business leader, what have you done lately to promote your company culture to the kids who will be entering the workforce in 5 or 10 years? Trust me when I tell you that teachers love taking students to local businesses to learn more about career opportunities that are waiting for them when they finish school. By working together, we can open the next generation’s eyes to the fact that they don’t have to go far to find the career of their dreams.

KEEP UP WITH THE (JERRY) JONES In the last few years, as shiny new mega-stadiums sprang up with highend amenities for players, staff, and fans, the Metrodome was looking like an outdated relic. This fall, my beloved Vikings are moving into a state-of-the-art $1.1 billion home — U.S. Bank Stadium — to keep pace with the 31 other teams.

Our great schools, low cost of living, and abundant recreational activities make Portage County a great place

to live and work. But this is no longer enough. Much like NFL teams, we need to make sure our community has the infrastructure and amenities that will make it attractive to prospective businesses and employees.

At Skyward, our new 190,000 square foot world headquarters offers plenty of room for future expansion and cutting-edge features that will help us compete for top talent for many years to come.

TEAMWORK WINS CHAMPIONSHIPS In the NFL, players make plays but teamwork wins championships. One of the things I like best about living in Portage County is that the people here look out for one another. We need to adopt that same concept of teamwork to economic development, and one of the best ways to do that is by becoming active in the Portage County Business Council.

Whether you’re a fan of the Packers, the Vikings, or some other team, the growth of our community is in all of our best interests. Let’s continue working together to make Portage County a place that any growing business will be proud to call home.

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PCBC | September 2016

9.14.16 \\ 7:30AM - 8:30AM PCBC FOUNDATION ROOM NO COST TO ATTEND. CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST IS INCLUDED. 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. While there is no cost to attend, the value of the information may be priceless.

Business X-Change meets regularly throughout the year from 7:30 - 8:30AM at the Portage County Business Council office.

TOPIC: “CUSTOMER RETENTION A HUMAN APPROACH” About Our Program:

Large companies to small business owners spend a fortune each year attracting their customers; tempting them to try their product, service or join their customer base. Once you get them in the door, what are you doing to keep them coming back for more? Deborah has worked with customers for over 35 years, 22 of those years building her own reputable business to over 60,000 customers. At this X-Change, she will share her most valuable and effective tools to keep customers returning, but more importantly, for those same customers to bring even more customers back with them. Grow your brand and expand your customers while lowering marketing expenses and building profit.

Key Points that our Audience will Learn: • Above and Beyond: Going beyond good

and great.

• Mom’s The Word: Tune into the art of

listening to build trust, learn compassion

and earn your customers continued business.

• Four Ways System™ to customer

relationship: Understanding your customer’s

preferred “way of behaving” to

communicate and relate more effectively

with each customer specifically.

• PS not BS: No customer wants to walk away

from any purchase, service or business deal

feeling like a victim of a BS artist. Learn the

art of PS-ing for true results.

• Touch it up: Walls aren’t the only thing

needing a touch up, discover the secret

weapon to customers continued patronage.

• Get to the Core: Bring the right employees

into your business to keep customers

coming back by learning effective hiring techniques.

About our Speaker:

Deborah Adams is a Thought Leader and Wellness Expert. She is Founder and CEO of The Wellness Spa, Inc. in Stevens Point, WI since 1994 and coowner of Wisconsin’s first Halotherapy center, the Qi Garden Salt Spa since 2014. Deborah was an AMTA massage therapist for 25 years and is currently certified in Tai Chi & Qigong, Therapeutic Lifestyle Change, and Human Performance. She offers lectures, training, and retreats in stress management, empowerment, selfcare, and customer retention.

REGISTER HERE

Special THANK YOU to /the Wellness Spa for their sponsorship of this program.

For 8 questions on this X-Change please contact Karen Schanock at 715-344-1940 or kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com.

Business after

Hours

Co-Sponsored by:

September 19, 2016 5:00PM - 7:00PM Event will be held at the offices of AFLAC and PuroClean, 2925 Welsby Avenue, Stevens Point.

BENEFIT REMINDER

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | D i g i t a l M a g a z i n e

Parking: Additional parking located across the street from their building in the vacant parking lot.

Our hosts for the September event will be offering a variety of complimentary appetizers, alcoholic beverages (wine and craft beers), non-alcoholic refreshments, and door prize giveaways. A 50/50 raffle will also be played and tours of the office space, including the warehouse facility of PuroClean.

What is Business After Hours? A social event designed for and hosted by Business Council members to give business professionals an opportunity for network development, sharing 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.

Members are welcome to co-host the event with another Business Council member. Please call Karen Schanock at 715-344-1940 or email at kschanoc@ portagecountybiz.com to book the month you are interested in.

RSVP by Friday, September 16, 2016.

VIEW DIRECTIONS

REGISTER HERE

If your business is a member of the Portage County Business Council, every associate at your organization is also a member. From the front line staff to the CEO, and everyone in between! Please share the information you receive from us with your associates, as they may wish to attend an event or program.

Additionally, every staff member is able to be on our email list and receive communication from the council. To add an associate’s name to our email list, simply email Tonya at tkowalsk@portagecountybiz.com and give her the first name, last name, and email of the associate you wish to add.

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PCBC | September 2016

H E ARTLAND FA R M S, INC. MEMBER OF THE MONTH 907 3rd Avenue Hancock, WI 54943 (715)249-5555 http://www.hfinc.biz/ “Heartland Farms, Inc., a member of the Portage County Business Council since 1989, has been experiencing substantial growth both in employment and infrastructure. Heartland Farms is a 5th generation family owned and operated potato and vegetable farm with its main location in Hancock, WI. In the past year, they have added 15 full-time employees to their growing team!

Heartland Farms’ philosophy of putting people and communities first and keeping up with the latest technologies has helped stimulate growth and has put them in a great position for future success. With incorporating the latest technologies and having a great team to support these technologies, Heartland focuses on sustainability not only of their land and resources, but of the thriving communities they are a part of.

Heartland Farms recently celebrated the Grand Opening of their new Farm Operations, Technology & Training Center. This facility’s goal is to increase collaboration and training within the company and with the community. Later this year, their new grading and shipping facility will also be operational. This 75,000 square foot facility incorporates a state of the art design with the latest in industrial technologies. When this project is complete, Heartland Farms will have the ability to ship a load of potatoes in five minutes.

Being a member of the Portage County Business Council provides a great opportunity to be actively engaged in local communities and for networking with other local businesses. Supporting local businesses and communities is a main focus for Heartland Farms and groups like the Portage County Business Council foster this in an exceptional way.”

WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST MEMBERS Forward Financial Bank 207 W. 6th Street Marshfield, WI 54449 (715) 387-1122 What ar e t h e BENEFITS OF MEMBERSH IP? Yo u r bu si n e s s r epr es entat i ve s a r e inv ited to ed uc a t i o n a l and netw o r k de ve l o p m e nt ev en t s Lis t y o u r o w n b us i n e s s ’ ev ents , j o bs , an d d e a l s o n po r tag ec o u n t yb i z .c o m Rec eiv e r ef err a l s f r o m o ther P C B C me m b e r s B ec o m e a s pe c i a l e ve n t s po ns o r to pr o m o t e yo ur bu s ine s s Dis pl ay y o u r m a r k e t i n g m ater ial s in t h e P C B C l o bby and o n t h e P C B C w ebs i t e P ar tic ipate in yo ur l o c a l community 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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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.

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | D i g i t a l M a g a z i n e

AMBASSADORS AND PCBC STAFF SHOW THEIR SUPPORT IN MANY WAYS

On August 25th the community and PCBC staff attended the 5 Year Anniversary celebration for The Bottle Stop located at 35C Park Ridge Drive, Stevens Point.

Congratulations to owner, Matt Lazarski!

Community leaders joined Aspirus on August 23rd for a groundbreaking ceremony at the Aspirus Stevens Point Clinic located at 5409 Vern Holmes Drive, Stevens Point.

Members of our Ambassadors Club and PCBC staff joined to celebrate this 40,000 square foot clinic and emergency department expansion.

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PCBC | September 2016

The Portage County Business Council is excited to host the 15th Annual Wines of the World event scheduled for Friday, October 28, 2016.

sponsorship levels (Members must be in good standing with their membership dues to participate), with attractive benefits at each. Here’s how it works:

Join us that evening from 6:00PM – 9:00PM at the NEWLY THANK YOU TO ALL SPONSORS TO DATE REMODELED Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center, 1001 Amber Avenue, Stevens Point for an international journey as we sample a selection of wines from around the world featured by The Bottle Stop. A taste-tempting PRESENTING WINE SPONSOR: array of fine cuisine prepared by the Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center and Rockman’s Catering, a silent auction,Wisconsin artisan cheeses and some imports from Ski’s Meat Market, a beer bar by the Stevens Point Brewery, hand crafted spirits from Great Northern Distilling, and soft live jazz music will make the evening complete.

This event will provide an opportunity for guests to network, socialize and have fun learning about wine.

Those in attendance will have a chance to win fabulous door prizes including a Unique Dining Experience for 6 (catered dinner for 6 people in the privacy of your home with Private Chef - Scott Rockman, owner of Rockman’s Catering). One lucky winner will also go home with this stunning 14K White Gold Pendant holding 5 Round Brilliant Diamonds with a 14KT White Gold Box Chain valued at $2,750 donated by Lee Ayers Jewelers and Thomas Dailing Designs; and masterfully hand-created by Internationally recognized jewelry designer Thomas Dailing.

FOOD SPONSORS:

EXCLUSIVE SOMMELIER MASTER MEDIA SPONSOR:

Event reservations are as follows: $50 per person for Business Council members $60 per person for Prospective members

JEWELRY SPONSOR:

$65 per person the day of the event

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Tickets are available at the Business Council office or Ski’s Meat Market An opportunity is also available for your organization to participate in various

and Thomas Dailing Designs

BEER SPONSOR:

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | D i g i t a l M a g a z i n e

PRINT SPONSOR:

Bordeaux Table Sponsorship - $800

Chardonnay Table Sponsorship - $500

CENTERPIECE EXCLUSIVE SPONSORS:

•

HAND CRAFTED SPIRITS SPONSOR:

• • •

• •

CHEESE SPONSOR:

Company listed as Bordeaux sponsor on event program Verbal recognition at event Two months pre-event recognition in Business Council digital magazine Company logo displayed on Wines of the World webpage (including a “link” to company website) Eight tickets to the event A company reserved table for preferential seating at the event (VIP designated area)

Brewery Table Sponsorship - $800

• • • • • •

Company listed as Chardonnay sponsor on event program Verbal recognition at event One month pre-event recognition in Business Council digital magazine Company name listed on Wines of the World webpage Four tickets to the event A shared company reserved table for preferential seating at the event (VIP designated area)

Chianti Bistro Table Sponsorship - $250

Bill Bayba Realtor • •

DESSERT SPONSOR:

• • •

To secure your sponsorship please contact Karen Schanock at kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com or 715-344-1940 by Friday, September 16, 2016.

Don’t miss this opportunity to take part of an evening of fun, socializing and education about wine.

• •

Company listed as Brewery sponsor on event program Verbal recognition at event Two month pre-event recognition in Business Council digital magazine Company logo listed on Wines of the World webpage Eight tickets to the event A company reserved table for preferential seating at the event (VIP designated area)

• • •

Company listed as Chianti sponsor on event program Company name listed on Wines of the World webpage Two tickets to the event A company reserved bistro table at the event (VIP designated area)

Stage Sponsorship SOLD OUT

The Business Council extends an invitation to an event like no other. Click Here to register online.

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PCBC | September 2016

Wine Charm Exclusive Sponsorship SOLD OUT

Rating -Pen Exclusive Sponsorship SOLD OUT

Dinner Napkin Exclusive Sponsorship - SOLD OUT Corkscrew Exclusive Sponsorship SOLD OUT

Silent Auction Donor

The Business Council is also seeking wine themed products or services to be auctioned at the Silent Auction during the event.

As a Silent Auction donor, the Business Council promotes your business and the merchandise and/ or service to over 375 business professionals in attendance. Your business will also be recognized with a creative display during the evening, which recognizes your business and donated item.

For more information about the event or sponsorships contact Karen Schanock at kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com or 715-344-1940.

Proceeds from the event benefit member programs and new initiatives of the Business Council.

Cocktail Napkin Exclusive Sponsorship - $250 •

Wine Stopper Exclusive Sponsorship - $350 • • • • • • • •

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Requires Business Council approval before wine stop order is placed Wine Stopper with company name given to all guests (wine stoppers to be purchased by sponsor) Company listed as sponsor on event program Verbal recognition as Exclusive Wine Stopper sponsor at event One month pre-event recognition in Business Council digital magazine Company name listed on Wines of the World webpage Four tickets to the event A shared company reserved table for preferential seating at the event (VIP designated area)

• • • • • •

Requires Business Council approval before napkin order is placed Napkin with company name given to all guests (500 napkins to be purchased by sponsor) Company listed as sponsor on event program Verbal recognition as Exclusive Cocktail Napkin sponsor at event One month pre-event recognition in Business Council digital magazine Company name listed on Wines of the World webpage Two tickets to the event

Click Here

to register online.

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | D i g i t a l M a g a z i n e

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PCBC | September 2016

THE BOTTLE STOP TURNS FIVE The Bottle Stop, 35 Park Ridge Drive, celebrated five years in business. Matt Lazarski had always wanted his own beverage business.

Working for other successful locally-owned enterprises-a liquor distributor, a bar/restaurant and a retail beverage outlet-he developed and honed the skills he knew he would need.

NORTHWOOD AWARDED NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALRORS, REALTOR EMERITUS Congratulations to Chris Northwood of the Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group office in Stevens Point for being awarded NAR’s Realtor Emeritus at the recent Central Wisconsin Board of Realtors Annual Meeting.

Then in 2011, after a thirty-seven year run, the owner of Park Ridge Liquors made it known that he wanted to retire. Matt, with the encouragement and support of his wife, Jen, also a successful business owner (Photography

by Jen), seized the opportunity and The Bottle Stop was born.

The fresh paint was barely dry when he was approached

by Big Brothers and Big Sisters and participated in their Taste of the Town fundraiser. Less than three months later, he joined the Portage County Business Council as exclusive wine sponsor for their annual Wines of the World event.

Now after four “Best Beverage” awards at the Taste of the Town, 2012 Entrepreneur of the Year, five Wines of the World with PCBC and the 2015 birth of twins, The Bottle Stop has turned five.

Asked about the keys to his success, Matt replied “Informed customer service is critical. Our loyal customers frequently look to us for advice. Our monthly newsletter, which includes Chicago Bill’s Say Vino advisory column, reaches over 500 households and our Facebook page has over 1,300 followers.

But also important are our close vendor relationships and ‘giving back’, being involved in community service.” https://www. facebook.com/ thebottlestop1/

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Since Chris began his career in 1976, he has been a top producer and constant advocate in Realtor affairs. He has been Director for Wisconsin with the National Board of Realtors, President of the local Board of Realtors, President of the local MLS and been an active member of various offices and committees.

Chris has achieved designations which include Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager (CRB), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Graduate, REALTOR Institute (GRI) and Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR). Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group in Stevens Point is fortunate to have such a distinguished broker within our office.

Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group is the number one real estate company in northeast Wisconsin.

More information can be found at www.ColdwellHomes.com or by calling the office at 715-295-5005.

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | D i g i t a l M a g a z i n e

Born Learning initiative focuses on children before they get to school Ellis Continues Investment and Expansion in Design Department

NEWSROOM With a mission that all children in Portage County will be safe, healthy, and ready for kindergarten, the newly named Born Learning initiative will create a new system of support for families prenatally, and with children age 5 and younger.

Ellis Construction is proud to announce the return of Jeremy Kleman as Design Specialist, AAIA, LEED AP. Kleman returned to Ellis in August of 2016.

Kleman graduated from the Architectural- Residential Design Program at Northcentral Technical College and continues his credit accumulation towards becoming a Registered Architect.

According to Jim Anderson, President of Ellis Construction, “We have been positioning Ellis for continued growth in the designbuild market, and the addition of Jeremy will allow us significantly greater capabilities to continue to give our clients the very best.” www.elliswi.com

Since announcing this early yearsfocused initiative last year, community partners, along with United Way of Portage County, have been working collectively to build a community system that creates and invests in opportunities for children to realize lifelong success.

The intent is to close the academic achievement gap that exists in the community.

The first phase of Born Learning will be to fund home visitation services to families who need support during the earliest years of life. Home visitors will visit families, bringing educational materials and resources that promote child development, health, safety, and family support.

“Born Learning is an opportunity for local citizens to work together to achieve a strong economic future for Portage County,” said Lisa Falduto, the Born Learning Engagement Specialist for United Way of Portage County.

“As private businesses and public organizations continue to make a strong commitment to this effort, we will create health and education equity for our youngest children. All Portage County children will be safe, healthy and ready for kindergarten.”

Falduto said all of the partners at the table are working on specifics about

the Born Learning system. The public and private partners include United Way, Delta Dental of Wisconsin, Ministry Health Care, Sentry Insurance, Stevens Point Area Public School District, Aspirus, Skyward, Marshfield Clinic, Rosholt School District, and Portage County Health & Human Services. Steering committee representatives overseeing the initiative include representatives from those partners, as well as other community leaders.

People can learn more at a Thursday, Sept. 22, event open to the public. The first ever Born Learning Summit will take place at the Sentry Theater on that date, with a community resource fair from 8:30 to 9 a.m. and the summit from 9 a.m. to noon.

Dr. Dipesh Navsaria, an expert on the importance of the early years, will speak on “Early Brain and Child Development (including Toxic Stress and Childhood Adversity).” This will be followed by Portage County Health & Human Services’ presentation on “The Welfare of Children in Portage County.”

The summit will conclude with a Born Learning panel discussion featuring Dr. Navsaria, Portage County Health & Human Services Director Ray Przybelski, State Sen. Julie Lassa, State Rep. Katrina Shankland, and United Way of Portage County Executive Director Sue Wilcox.

More information about Born Learning is available online at www.unitedwaypoco.org/bornlearning or by calling 715-341-6740.

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PCBC | September 2016

en

by ted

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REGISTER HERE Thursday, September 22, 2016 11:15 AM to 1:00 PM Stevens Point Country Club (Club House), 1628 Country Club Drive, Stevens Point Cost: $25/Person PCBC Members, $30/Person Prospective PCBC Members

“Redefining Success – Coming to Recognize and Appreciate the Joy of a Worthwhile Job Done Well Guest Speaker: Kristin M. Slonski, Daubert Law Firm LLC About Our Program: Why is it that so few women - businesswomen, professional women, career women – are reluctant to call themselves “successful?” Perhaps there is something in the word “success” that prohibits us from embracing it as being descriptive of us. Women far too often fall into the trap of believing that “success” is a definition bestowed upon us by others, and that in order to be successful we must meet certain goals that fall outside of the norm of our experiences in life and in business. But, maybe we can learn to recognize that the work we do, in the home and outside of it, is important.

And an important job done properly entitles a person to say that she is successful. Maybe we can come to understand that accomplishing what needs to be done and acting when action needs to be taken is the very definition of success. And if we allow ourselves to recognize that success, maybe we can also allow ourselves to revel in it. This talk will examine ways in which professional women can increase their happiness and productivity by allowing themselves to define their lives and careers as “successful.”

About Our Speaker: After serving for two years as a judicial clerk for the Honorable J. Phil Gilbert, United States District Judge for the Southern District of Illinois, Kristin M. Slonski moved to Wisconsin and entered private practice. Kristin

Timeframe of Event: 11:15AM Registration & Networking 11:30AM Welcome 11:45AM Lunch (consisting of Vegetable

Minestrone Soup, Hot Ham & Swiss

Sandwich, Ice-Water with Lemon,

Coffee and an assortment of

Mini Cheesecakes 12:10PM Master of Ceremonies – Radio

Personality Nikki Montgomery from

Midwest Communications 12:15PM Guest Speaker Presentation 12:50PM Door Prize Giveaways 1:00PM Closing 18 (Vegetarian & Gluten Free Menu Option available upon request)

taught undergraduate law classes as an adjunct professor at the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point. Kristin graduated summa cum laude from Southern Illinois University School of Law in 2007. While in law school, Kristin was awarded the Southern Illinois University School of Law award for Academic Excellence, the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois Foundation Past Recipients’ Scholarship, the Neil Fellowship for Public Service, the James O. Monroe, Jr. Award for Excellence in Writing, the National Association of Women Lawyers’ Award, and Best Comment – 2006 by the Southern Illinois University Law Journal.

Kristin has published two scholarly articles. Before entering law school, she served as an Arabic translator in the United States Army, Active Duty. Kristin graduated from the Defense Language Institute, Foreign Language Center with a proficiency certificate in Arabic. She obtained her undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities.

The focus of Kristin’s practice with Daubert Law Firm, LLC is serving the litigation needs of the firm’s clients. Kristin is actively engaged in the community, serving as a member of the Marathon County United Way Volunteer Connection Advisory Committee, Treasurer of the Riverview Elementary School Parent-Teacher Organization, and as a member of the Wausau Breakfast Optimists Club. In her free time, Kristin enjoys playing guitar, reading, running and participating in triathlons.

Don’t miss this event! For questions contact Karen Schanock at 715-344-1940 or kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com.

SAVE THE DATE…Thursday, December 8th event will be sponsored by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection and will be held at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center, 1001 Amber Avenue, Stevens Point.

DIRECTIONS TO THE EVENT Special Thanks to our Media Sponor Midwest Communications

T h e A cCOUNTY t i v e Vo i c e | D i g i t a l M a g a z i n e LEADERSHIP PORTAGE Like many students heading back to school this fall, the Leadership Portage County Class of 2016-17 anxiously began their 10-month program on Aug. 18-19. Day 1 participant introductions were guided by a rousing round of Get to Know You BINGO and personality assessments. The class then got to know more about where we live and work thanks to a historical tour of Portage County, hosted by the all-knowing and entertaining LPC honorary alumnus Anton Anday. From Heritage Park (Plover) to Sacred Heart Parish (Polonia) to Rising Star Mill (Nelsonville) and finishing at the murals in downtown Stevens Point, the tour provided the class with an ever-important history lesson of leadership.

Day 2 began at the beautiful Schmeeckle Reserve. The morning was filled with rich participant conversations facilitated by Todd Kuckkahn and Vicki Carlson around the behaviors that exemplify authentic leadership and powerful presentations, as well as opportunities for fun, yet meaningful networking. The participants were able to “play together” through a variety of teambuilding exercises, including writing team résumés and untangling human knots. It was wonderful to see relationships forming with each new experience. Last, but not least, the closing highlight of the retreat was the Portage County Road Rally Scavenger Hunt. In teams of four, participants leveraged the knowledge gained during the Day 1 tour with Anton, and the strengths of each team member, to solve the clues and navigate their way throughout the county, taking photos to catalog their adventures. It was a perfect, purposeful way to end a wonderful retreat!

LPC Class of 2016-17 Participants Jason Wilatoski Estimator, Ellis Construction

Lisa Schaufenbuel Associate Director of Human Resources & Affirmative Action, UW-Stevens Point

Julie Ann Wrobel Talent Development Consultant, Sentry Insurance

Morgan Magnussen Human Resources, UW-Stevens Point

Katie Bembenek Health Promotion Coordinator, Portage County Aging & Disability Resource Center

Nadene Miller Stevens Point Contact Center Site Manager, Great Lakes Educational Loan Services

Kelly Gardner Technical Resource Center Manager, Delta Dental of Wisconsin

Randy Zietlow President / CFO, Community First Bank

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LEADERSHIP PORTAGE COUNTY

PCBC | September 2016

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Amy Jahnke Associate Attorney, Anderson O’Brien

Dan Rosenow Associate Director of Compliance and Product Development, Sentry Insurance

Amy Wavrunek Workers Compensation Claims Manager, Sentry Insurance

Dave Drozd Finance Manager, Central Wisconsin Airport

Andy Kruit Benefits Manager, Waupaca Foundry, Inc.

Derek Heikkinen Director of Business Services, North Central Wis. Workforce Development Board

Becca Greening Creative Manager, Delta Dental of Wisconsin

Eva Donohoo College of Professional Studies Assistant to the Dean for Communication, UW-Stevens Point

Britney Almquist Branch Manager, Bull’s Eye Credit Union

Jamie Kiener Lead Program Director, Justiceworks, Ltd.

Spencer Kohnen Branch Manager/ Relationship Banker, Paper City Savings

Tama Manske Staffing Coordinator, ABR Employment Services

T h e COUNTY A c t i v e Vo i c e | D i g i t a l M a g a z i n e LEADERSHIP PORTAGE

Tom Fish Business Banking Representative, River Cities Bank

Tom Johnson Manager of Warehousing & Logistics, Figi’s Companies, Inc.

Not Pictured - Sara Totten, Director of Student Services, Stevens Point Area School District

LPC ROAD RALLY Each year Leadership Portage County Participants enjoy a photo scavenger hunt during the opening retreat of the program. Participants are asked to first answer clues about locations in Portage County, then to travel to those locations and snap a photo. It’s a great way for participants to quickly make connections with the other individuals on their team while having fun and engaging in a friendly competition. This year’s Road Rally was no exception.

To see more photos from the scavenger hunt, check out the Facebook Album.

PARTNERS IN EDUCATION:

Back-to-School is here and with it PIE (Partners In Education) programming is underway. If you are interested in volunteering at upcoming PIE events like Reality Shops or Career Fairs, please contact Kayla Rombalski at talent@portagecountybiz.com.

Save the date for these upcoming PIE events: Wed. Oct. 5 - Heavy Metal Bus Tour Wed. Oct. 5 - New Teacher/Faculty Welcome Business After Hours at Skyward REGISTER HERE! Sat. Oct. 8 - Girls in Technology at MSTC Sat. Oct. 22 - Reality Shop for Upward Bound students at UWSP 21 Wed. Nov. 9 - Reality Shop at SPASH

PCBC | September 2016

2016 EVENTS eptember S 7

Wines of the World Planning Committee Meeting, 3:00PM, Holiday Inn

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ctober 4

Wines of the World Planning Committee Meeting, 3:00PM, Holiday Inn

8 Ambassadors Club Meeting, 8:00AM, PCBC

5 New Teacher Business Welcome, 5:00PM Skyward

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Ag Tour, 11:30AM, Heartland Farms

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Job Fair, 10:00AM - 7:00PM, Noel Hanger

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Legislative Candidate Forum, 7:00AM, Stevens Point Country Club

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Business X-Change, 7:30AM, PCBC

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Business X-Change, 7:30AM, PCBC

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Ambassadors Club Meeting, 8:00AM, PCBC

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Business Engagement Committee Meeting, 7:30AM, PCBC

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Business After Hours, 5:00PM, Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group

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Wines of the World Planning Committee Meeting, 3:00PM, Holiday Inn

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SalesNet Meeting, 11:45AM, PCBC

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Wines of the World Planning Committee Meeting, 3:00PM, Holiday Inn

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Wines of the World, 6:00-9:00PM, Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center

15 SalesNet Meeting, 11:45AM, PCBC 19

Business After Hours, 5:00PM, AFLAC & PuroClean

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Wines of the World Planning Committee Meeting, 3:00PM, Holiday Inn

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Women in Business Luncheon, 11:45AM, Stevens Point Country Club

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 most area banks, credit unions, the Convention and Visitors Bureau or at our office. They can be used at most businesses 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.

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