June 2017 Active Voice Digital Magazine

the Active Voice T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | J u n e 2 0 1 7

moving to central wisconsin

THE LAST ADVENTURE INTO LEADERSHIP

Business on the green 1

www.portagecountybiz.com

T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | J u n e 2 0 1 7

MEMBER

contact us Portage County Business Council, Inc. 5501 Vern Holmes Drive Stevens Point, WI 54482 715-344-1940 www.portagecountybiz.com

Portage County Business Council @PoCoBiz Portage County Business

Todd Kuckkahn Executive Director tkuckkahn@portagecountybiz..com

Mereta Walker Director of Operations acctg@portagecountybiz.com

Karen Schanock Director of Programs & Events kschanock@portagecountybiz.com

Tonya Kowalski Director of Business Engagement tkowalski@portagecountybiz.com

Kayla Rombalski Director of Talent Development talent@portagecountybiz.com

Angel Whitehead Marketing Communications Coordinator admin@portagecountybiz.com

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CONTEN TS DIGITAL MAGAZINE 4 tools for business success Our recent golf outing was one example of when we create opportunities for network development with the desired outcome of more partnerships in our community.

5 Business on the green golf outing The Ambassadors Club of the Portage County Business Council thanks you for your participation in our 28th Annual Business on the Green Golf Outing held Monday, June 5, 2017.

7 your membership at work

»»p.4

It has been one year since we introduced our new value-based Tiered Dues membership structure. The members that have joined or renewed under this new structure have enjoyed utilizing all of the select benefits they now receive.

9 women in business Join us for our June Women in Business as guest speaker Lorraine Avery presents “Women, Take Your Wings and Soar”.

13 W H Y J OIN IGN ITE ? »»p.13

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Outside of the value that you will receive from attending these events, there is a considerable cost savings in becoming a member versus paying per event.

17 The last adventure into leadership The group spent the morning doing team building activities, sharing their personal mission statements, climbing to new heights at Lions Camp.

18 Parnters in education It has been a busy spring for Partners in Education programming.

19 regional talent summit »»p.17

Employers tackled ways to bring jobs to north central Wisconsin at Thursday’s Regional Talent Summit hosted by several Chambers of Commerce.

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TOOLS FOR

BUSINESS SUCCESS

TODD KUCKKAHN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

While there is a lot of conversation about talent attraction and retention based on challenging demographics, business retention is another cornerstone of what we do at the Portage County Business Council (PCBC). Our recent golf outing was one example of that, where we create opportunities for network development with the desired outcome of more partnerships in our community. Of course, fun is a big part of that particular event, too.

With the support of Portage County government, we recently purchased a product called, “Tools For Business Success”. You can find it on our website’s front page at www.portagecountybiz.com. It is a free tool-seriously!!! If you can’t find an answer on the site, there is an

option to get help in the lower right hand corner or feel free to contact our office directly.

There are a multitude of topics included on the main page: Shop Local, Start A Business, Grow Your Business, Hire Employees, Business & Employee Training, Greening Your Business, Financing/Managing Money, Protect Your Business, Government Requirements, Minority/Women, Veteran, Youth

Entrepreneurs, Agriculture, Business of Art, Construction, Data Center, Food Processing, Sell Globally, Green Technology, Health Industry, Manufacturing, Restaurants/ Tourism, Retail, and Selling To Government.

The great thing about the site is we can continually submit changes and make improvements. If you see something that is missing or needs improvement or a correction, just let us know. The other advantage is the site contains local solutions as well as regional, state and national tools.

One example is under the Hire Employees tab. Click on the down arrow and then the green arrow by “Find The Right Person”. A number of bulleted items appear. Try “Hire an intern from UW Stevens Point” or “Hire a graduate from Mid-State Technical College”. The UWSP tab takes you to the School of Business and Economics. Mid-State’s takes you to the “Techconnect” page which actually will connect you to the Tech College system database. Also, don’t forget to post your job on the PCBC website as well.

The more people who interact with site and get us their feedback, the better it will become for everyone.

It is a good launching point for our community. Centergy, the regional economic development engine, is looking at the site as a regional resource for our entire area. The more we work together regionally, the better off we will all be in the long run.

I also want to take this opportunity to recognize one of our employees at PCBC. Karen Schanock, director of programs and events, is celebrating her 20th anniversary on June 9th.

And speaking of the golf outing, Karen provides the leadership for that along with tremendous support from our Ambassadors. Karen manages around 50 events every year plus is an incredible resource to her teammates, Board members, Ambassadors and the business community. Congrats Karen and thanks for your exceptional commitment to our community!

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The Ambassadors Club of the Portage County Business

Ministry Health Care, part of Ascension Foursome – Gold Sponsor

Council thanks you for your

Golfers and Hole Sponsors gathered after golf for the 19th Hole Networking Event at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center

participation in our 28th Annual Business on the Green Golf Outing held Monday, June 5, 2017. With over 200 golfers participating and additional business representatives attending the 19th Hole Networking Dinner, the event

Members of our Ambassadors Club hard at work at SentryWorld & Stevens Point Country Club

Ambassador Dave Acaley having fun with our 19th Hole theme of “Super Heroes of Portage County”

Team Schierl Companies Gold (2) Sponsor

Point After Pub & Grill – Gold Sponsor

provided a great environment to expand contacts.

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Having fun at Business on the Green

Thank you to our Diamond Sponsors T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | J u n e 2 0 1 7

Double Gold Sponsors: CliftonLarsonAllen LLP Sentry Insurance Gold Sponsors: Advanced Disposal Services Midwest Anderson O’Brien Bull’s Eye Credit Union C.H. Robinson Inc Community First Bank Del Monte Foods Inc. Delta Dental of Wisconsin Ellis Construction Figi’s Companies Inc Hausmann-Johnson Insurance Klasinski Clinic Ministry Health Care, part of Ascension Point After Pub & Grill Rettler Corporation River Valley Bank Schulist’s Custom Cabinets Inc Simplicity Credit Union Skyward The Pineries Bank

Beverage Sponsors: Investors Community Bank Mitchell’s Hilltop Pub & Restaurant Pointe Precision Inc Regnier Consulting Group Inc Stone Innovations Inc US Bank Lunch Sponsors: Altmann Construction Company Inc Aspirus Bone & Joint Clinic CoVantage Credit Union Steel King Industries Putting Contest Sponsor: BioLife Plasma Services Driving Range Sponsor: Associated Bank Silver Sponsors: Donaldson Company Simplicity Credit Union

Thank You to Our Supporters: Adventure 212 Gold (2) Sponsors: Altmann Construction Company Inc ABR Employment Services Ambassadors Club Ansay & Associates Arbuckles Eatery & Pub AT&T Bria Bella & Co. Country Inn & Suites Big Apple Bagels Ho-Chunk Gaming Nekoosa Blenker Companies Keller Inc Brookdale Stevens Point Knight Barry Title Services Bushman Electric Crane & Sign Pat’s CARSTAR Auto Body Chase Bank Point of Beginning CliftonLarsonAllen LLP Secure Heritage Insurance Agency / Coldwell Banker The Real Estate AFLAC Group / Point Realty Group Stevens Point Brewery Commercial Roofing Team Schierl Companies Cooper Oil Company Corex US LLC Hole-In-One Sponsors: DigiCopy Mark Motors Automotive Inc Dolce Digital Imaging & Printing The Portage County Bank Duraclean Specialists Edward Jones Investments Lunch Bag Sponsors: Express Employment Professionals Econo Lodge Inn & Suites First Supply LLC Members’ Advantage Credit Union Furniture & ApplianceMart Gamber Johnson LLC General Beer Grazies Italian Grill

Ho-Chunk Gaming Nekoosa Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center Investors Community Bank Lands’ End Lauterbach Legal Ligman & Wille CPA LLC Marshfield Clinic McCain Foods Mid-State Technical College Ministry Health Care, part of Ascension Mission Coffee House National Wellness Institute Notable Impressions NRG Media Office Direct Interiors Paper City Savings Pat’s CARSTAR Auto Body Point Insurance Agency LLC Point Title LLC Portage County Gazette Portesi’s Italian Foods Prism Real Estate Riiser Energy R-Stores River Cities Bank Rockman’s Catering SentryWorld Shulfer’s Sprinklers Landscaping & Garden Center Skyward Slumberland Furniture Star Business Machines Stevens Point Country Club Team Schierl Companies The Bottle Stop US Bank Home Mortgage – Jake Heyroth WAOW-TV9 Wisconsin River Golf Club

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no employee count • online ads • free event tickets • increased visibility • enhanced listings • legislative voice • invitations to exclusive events • early sponsorship opportunities • free additional locations • executive-level network The A c t i vdevelopment e V o i c e | •Jaccess u n e to 2 0community 17 business leaders • no employee count • online ads • free event tickets • increased visibility • enhanced listings • legislative voice • invitations to exclusive events • early sponsorship opportunities • free additional locations • executive-level network development • access to community business leaders • no employee count • online ads • free event tickets • increased visibility • enhanced listings • legislative voice • invitations to exclusive events • early sponsorship opportunities • free additional locations • executive-level network development • access to community business leaders • no employee count • online ads • free event tickets • increased visibility • enhanced listings • legislative voice • invitations to exclusive events • early sponsorship opportunities • free additional locations • executive-level network development • access to community business leaders • no employee count • online ads free event tickets • increased visibility • enhanced listings • legislative voice • invitations to exclusive events • early sponsorship

YOUR MEMBERSHIP AT WORK

It has been one year since we introduced our new value-based Tiered Dues membership structure. The members that have joined or renewed under this new structure have enjoyed utilizing all of the select benefits they now receive.

The proof is in the numbers!

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Businesses have added additional entities/ locations with full benefits at no additional charge

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Free tickets to Wines of the World and Annual Dinner were given to members

Want more information on how your business can make the switch to Tiered Dues? Contact Tonya Kowalski at: 715-344-1940 or tkowalski@portagecountybiz.com

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REGISTER HERE

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About our Presenter: Craig Haydock is a recent won’t get much Master’s degree graduate 6.14.17 \\ 7:30AM - 8:30AM done. of Boston University, with PCBC FOUNDATION ROOM a Master’s of Science in Computer Information NO COST TO ATTEND. CONTINENTAL Systems, Security and BREAKFAST IS INCLUDED. Networking. With eleven What is the Business X-Change? A roundtable years of experience in presentation which allows business owners and their systems operations, Mr. employees the opportunity to discuss pertinent topics, Haydock is an expert in any learn from local industry leaders and, most importantly, type of operating environment be it Microsoft, IOS learn from each other. While there is no cost to attend, or Linux and how to secure them. He will speak the value of the information may be priceless. from his experience along with industry trends and updates.

TOPIC: “CYBERSECURITY IN THE NEWS”

About the Program: Leave this X-Change with a greater understanding of the threats and ways to protect yourself from cyber security threats you may be encountering daily.

Key Points of Program: • Cybersecurity in The News o Ransomware and prevention o Ransomware and recovery o Keeping Systems Updated

Business after

Hours

MONDAY, JUNE 19TH 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

NO COST TO ATTEND

Enjoy complimentary hot and cold hors d’oeuvres prepared

by Bistro 212, refreshments including beer from the Stevens Point Brewery and wine from Sunset Point Winery, door prizes including a shredder giveaway, and a 50/50 raffle.

Special THANK YOU to Wildcard Corp. for its sponsorship of this program.

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

Hosted By:

(Formerly known as Krebs Business Machines) 3709 Patch Street, Stevens Point, WI 54481 The member host furnishes refreshments and hors d’oeuvres for the evening. A different Business Council member hosts Business After Hours every month.

COLLECTION OF CANNED ITEMS: Please help out and bring canned items to the event. All items will be donated to Operation Bootstrap. Thank you in advance.

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

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.

RSVP by Friday, june 16, 2017 Click Here to register online Click Here for map

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Guest Speaker LORRAINE AVERY

W OMEN IN B U S INES S

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THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2017 11:15AM to 1:00PM SentryWorld Grand Hall, 601 N Michigan Avenue, Stevens Point

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER Join us for our June Women in Business as guest speaker Lorraine Avery presents “Women, Take Your Wings and Soar”.

Presented by

Mark Your Calendars for these future Women in Business Events: Thursday, September 21, 2017 To be held at Stevens Point Country Club Presented by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection Thursday, December 14, 2017 To be held at holiday inn hotel & convention center Presented by IN Credit Union CoVantage

women

BUSINESS

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

About the program: Life begins at the edge of your comfort zone, but you can begin and should prepare your WINGS TO SOAR! Motivational speaker, Lorraine Avery will provide insight and motivation for all attendees of this event by using her own life experiences and teaching. This is a great time for women to support and give back by teaching, mentoring and sponsoring others. “Each One Teaches One”. Women become a bridge to “Lead One and Teach One”. It’s okay to become the “Star” in your own life. You don’t need to wait for permission.

What to expect at the Women in Business event: - Interactive discussion on leadership and building your wings for success.

- Learn to soar. Soar meaning and how do you get ready.

- Learn whether you are an influencer or are influenced.

She is a recent retiree and former Senior Vice President Diversity and Inclusion Consultant of Associated Bank. She has been involved in many charitable endeavors and spent countless hours volunteering her time to better Portage County. Lorraine has been a trusted Portage County Business Council Board of Director and has been an integral part of the Council’s Executive Committee and Business Engagement Committee.

She has been recognized in her profession as a pioneer in diverse positions.

In 2014 Lorraine received the Tina Peters Dedicated Service Award.

This is one of the highest honors a person can receive from United Way of Portage County. It is presented to an individual that has shown exemplary passion and compassion to the residents of Portage County.

She has received honors of Women of the Year from the National Association of Professional Women and the International Women’s Leadership Association. In addition, she was named Professional of the Year in Customer Service by Who’s Who Worldwide and selected by the University of Wisconsin as Best of the Brightest. She also received the President’s Award at the Portage County Business Council’s Annual Dinner in February, 2017.

Special thanks to our Media Sponsor Midwest Communications Radio Group

- Learn whether you lead or follow.

About our Speaker: Lorraine Avery has made her mark as one of our communities most respected and influential leaders.

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moving to central wisocnsin

INSIGHT, MERETA WALKER

WOW! Where has the time gone?

Just 9 months ago my husband and I moved to this area and began a new adventure! So far I have survived my 1st winter in Wisconsin, and I have officially survived my first tax season in Wisconsin, thanks to my new friends at Ligman & Wille.

I am breathing a sigh of relief on both counts.

there are really only 2, hot and hotter. Watching the foliage this past fall was cool (I had not seen that in a long time). The first snow came in October and I was so excited.

Winter started and I soon learned that having a garage was great, but I also needed an automatic car starter.

I was running outside each day to start my car, while all my coworkers pushed their start buttons from the warmth of the office.

• Second, food!

I have basically gotten a crash course in all the great places to eat! As in the south, food is a great way to build relationships. I have taken advantage of every opportunity to eat food from local restaurants with new friends.

I still have a list of

For those of you that don’t know me, my name is Mereta Walker; I am the Director of Operations for the Portage County Business Council.

I have been in this position since the end of November and I have the privilege of working with some awesome people! Being new to the area, I count it a blessing to have had such a wonderful Welcome Committee to introduce me to all that this area has to offer.

And there is a lot to take in!

• First of all I get the privilege of enjoying all 4 seasons! In Florida

• Third, I have been learning about the history of the area and I am impressed by the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship that underpins the business environment here.

Companies like Sentry Insurance and Skyward prove that great ideas are continuing to become great companies.

• Fourth, great places to shop!

It feels good to have all my shopping needs and preferences present in the community that I live and work in.

• Fifth, continuing to explore the community to discover the treasures this area has to offer.

Always nice to have a lot of things to do and see, I am going to have to pace myself. On my list though, is Business on the Green, Taste of the Town and anything that includes time at the beach, I mean lake.

However, the best part of moving to this area is hands down the people I have met! At this point there are too many to name, but let’s just say I have new friends that love butterflies, football, food and God. That makes me happy! I consider it an honor to be here with you all working to make this area the best place to live, work and play.

places to try, but I have had some of the best cannolis, cheese curds, custard, potato chips and of course fried fish.

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ASPIRUS STEVENS POINT WELCOMES NEW VICE PRESIDENT Robert Smith has joined the senior leadership team of Aspirus Stevens Point Clinic as Vice President. Smith is responsible for the development and oversight of high quality and cost effective integrated programs that are designed to meet the needs of patients and the Stevens Point community.

said Smith. “It will be exciting to help lead Aspirus throughout our expansion project.”

“Robert dedicated his professional life to health care and we couldn’t be more thrilled he’s going to lead our team in Stevens Point,” said Aspirus Wausau Hospital President Darrell Lentz. “His

“I am delighted to join the talented leadership team of Aspirus and the dedicated and compassionate crew already in place in Stevens Point.”

Smith comes to Aspirus with over 23 years of experience in clinical and administrative leadership for the Marshfield Clinic and Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield. Most recently he served as the clinic’s District Administrator and led a staff of 250 including 140 providers.

He holds a master’s degree in Business Administration from Lakeland College and a bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire. He also earned a Green-Belt Certification in Process Improvement Basics.

Due to rapid growth in recent years, the Aspirus Stevens Point Clinic is more than doubling in size with the construction of a 40,000-square-foot, two-story addition to provide space for walk-in, specialty and 24/7 emergency services as well as future space for expanded services. The clinic currently offers primary care and walk-in care, as well as select specialty care such as orthopedics, GI, oncology and more.

“I am delighted to join the talented leadership team of Aspirus and the dedicated and compassionate crew already in place in Stevens Point,”

experience and dynamic leadership skills will provide tremendous value as we continue to grow our services to meet the health care needs of the Stevens Point community.”

Smith served as President and as a member of the board of the Wisconsin Surgery Center Association and as a volunteer for the Marshfield Magic gymnastics club.

The Aspirus Stevens Point Clinic anticipates adding an additional 50 jobs once the new addition is complete and fully occupied in 2018.

Investors Community Bank names new Ag Banking Officer Scott Schroeter has been named Agricultural Banking Officer at Investors Community Bank. In his new role, Schroeter is responsible for forming agricultural banking relationships with new customers, growing existing customer relationships and developing other agricultural banking opportunities.

He’ll also share different types of lending and credit options with customers and analyze credit information.

Schroeter holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Lakeland College and a Master of Science in Management and Organizational Behavior from Silver Lake College. He has worked at Investors Community Bank for 15 years and previously held several positions in the credit department including Ag Credit Analyst, Ag Credit Analyst II, Ag Credit Manager, Portfolio Manager and Senior Portfolio Manager. Prior to joining Investors Community Bank, he also worked as a Portfolio Manager at another bank.

Schroeter volunteers as a teacher for Junior Achievement and an officer on the council of Manitowoc Cooperative Ministry. He was raised on a dairy farm and was a Dairy Farm Manager for six years after graduating college. He resides in Manitowoc with his wife, Jenny, and their daughter.

Investors Community Bank, a wholly-owned subsidiary of County Bancorp, Inc., is committed to serving the financial needs of businesses, farmers and families in our communities. For details visit www.InvestorsCommunityBank. com 11

Ambassadorsh T h e A c t i v e Vo i c e | J u n e 2 0 1 7

Members of our Ambassadors Club and PCBC staff attended the ribbon cutting ceremony on May 10th to celebrate the grand opening of the new fitness center at Pacelli High School.

The Ambassadors Club celebrated the opening of the new Trek Bicycle Store, 5370 Hwy 10E, Stevens Point with a ribbon cutting ceremony on May 19th.

To help celebrate the new The Store / Team Schierl Companies, members of our Ambassadors Club and PCBC staff took part in a ribbon cutting ceremony on May 22nd. The Store is located at 1011 Post Road in Plover.

Bria Bella & Co. held its ribbon cutting on May 31st and PCBC staff and members of our Ambassadors Club were honored to be a part of the celebration.

Congratulations to owner Tara Manzke!

Bria Bella & Co. is located in downtown Stevens Point at 925 Main Street.

o w T h e i r S u p p o r t 12

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Ignite Backstage Pass to Monarch Aerial Yoga and Dance

Volunteer with Ignite at the MREA Energy Fair Saturday June 17 11:00AM - 2:00PM 2:00PM - 5:00PM

Have fun in the sun at the Midwest Renewable Energy Association Energy Fair and help bartend at the event with Ignite.

WHY JOIN IGNITE?

For only $50, your Ignite Leadership Network of Portage County membership will provide you with the opportunity to visit local businesses and talk with the entrepreneurs who have built them, meet and network with your peers, as well as business leaders in the county, and get involved in your community.

Outside of the value that you will receive from attending these events, there is a considerable cost savings in becoming a member versus paying per event. If you were to attend each event without obtaining a Ignite Mix & Mingle: Levitt AMP Stevens Point membership, the cost would be more than $200.

Music Series For Employers Thursday, June 15 Why is it so important for Portage County employers 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM to support Ignite? Here are the top five reasons:

Ignite Summer Pop-Up Picnic Sunday July 16 11:30AM - 2:30PM

Join Ignite for a pop-up picnic at the Stevens Point Sculpture Park. We’ll be in the park at an undisclosed location and you’ll have to find us!

MORE DETAILS ON THE WAY

• Employee Loyalty: As employees feel more attached to an area through community involvement, they are more likely to stay in the area and with the same employer.

Join Ignite at Pfiffner Park for LEVITT AMP! The Pat Watter Band will be performing at 6pm.

• Recruitment: Networking with current members can enrich the recruitment pool with leadership skills and LIVE Bands every Thursday other desirable traits.

• Increase Knowledge Base: Access to new ideas and resources can help your business become a stronger company internally and in the eyes of the surrounding area.

• Know the Human Resources Available: Companies have the opportunity to meet and network with the next generation of employees and be able to realistically gauge those who will be advancing in their careers.

• Peer-to-Peer Marketing: Members discuss where they work and what they do with each other at Ignite events. This is a way for other professionals to learn about your company from current employees.

VISIT US ONLINE

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Karen Schanock Celebrates 20 Years with Portage County Business Council

NEWSROOM

Karen Schanock, Director of Programs & Events for the Portage County Business Council, is celebrating her 20th Anniversary with the organization on June 9th, 2017.

Karen recalls that on her very first day back in 1997, she worked the chamber’s golf outing. That event, currently called “Business on the Green” is now planned, organized, and facilitated by Ms. Schanock. The 2017 Business on the Green was held on June 5th and was a great success due, in large part, to Karen’s tireless efforts.

In addition to Business on the Green, Karen heads up countless other events and programs for the Business Council throughout the year. Anyone that has attended a Business After Hours, Business X-Change, SalesNet Lunch, Wines of the World, Women in Business Luncheon, Annual Dinner, American

Agricultural Appreciation Banquet, Ag Tour, Annual Dinner Awards, or Creative Excellence Awards Breakfast has enjoyed the quality and professionalism of Karen’s work.

Ms. Schanock also is the leader of the Ambassador’s Club. The Ambassadors are the good will arm of the Portage County Business Council. They are an extremely active group in the community!

From visiting new businesses

and members, to attending ribbon cuttings and ground breakings, to ringing bells for Salvation Army, the Ambassadors are continually out and about making a difference- and Karen organizes it all.

Karen is a native of Stevens Point and when she is not at the office, you will find her enjoying local restaurants and entertainment and spending time with her family, friends, and dog- Holly.

The staff at Portage County Business Council understand how very fortunate they are to have Karen on board and wish to congratulate her on these twenty amazing years!

Next time you see Karen, be sure to congratulate her as well!

Besides being an excellent employee, Karen is also a great person. She is kind, patient, compassionate, and has a smile that makes everyone’s day just a little brighter.

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SentryWorld named one of top public courses in U.S. SentryWorld Golf Course was ranked 34th in a listing of America’s Greatest Public Golf Courses that recently appears in Golf Digest magazine.

It’s the first time the course, located next to SentryWorld at 601 N. Michigan Ave., was named in the survey.

“We are extremely proud of what we’ve created here at SentryWorld and are excited to have received this honor from Golf Digest,” said SentryWorld General Manager Mike James in a news release. “The season has just started and this is a sure sign that 2017 will be one of our best years yet.”

In all, nine Wisconsin golf courses were named to the list. Among them, SentryWorld was fourth highest. Golf Digest has printed its list of the top 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses every other year since 2003.

SentryWorld has been recognized on a number of occasions. When the course opened in 1984, it won Golf Digest’s first-ever Best New Public award and is currently ranked fifth in their Best in State category for Wisconsin. Other recent awards include: Ranked #78 in Golf’s 2017 “Top 100 Courses You Can Play” Ranked #2 in Golf’s “Most Anticipated New Courses of 2015” Ranked #4 in Golf’s 2017 “Best Golf Courses You Can Play in Wisconsin” Ranked #6 in Golfweek’s 2017 “Best Courses You Can Play in Wisconsin” SentryWorld is now open for the 2017 season and for the first time offers a caddie service for golfers. For more information please visit www. sentryworld.com/. http://www.stevenspointjournal.com/ story/news/local/2017/06/07/sentryworldnamed-one-top-public-coursesu-s/376866001/

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CA P SERV I C ES, PAR T N ER AN D C L I EN T R EC OG NI Z ED CAP Services received the 2017 Governor’s Award for Excellence in Community Action during the Wisconsin Community Action Program Association (WISCAP) annual meeting Tuesday, May 23 in Madison.

The award is presented annually to a program that characterizes the spirit of community action; especially programs that help eliminate poverty and give families hope. CAP was chosen from nominations submitted to Wisconsin’s Department on Children and Families (DCF) by a joint committee of DCF and Governor’s Office staff.

CAP was selected for its success in using Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) to expand affordable housing options in rural communities in the state.

CAP has completed 21 LIHTC projects focused on senior citizens and families in 11 rural counties across the state. CAP’s housing has an average occupancy rate of 97 percent and has allowed seniors who are no longer able or want to live in single-family housing to stay in their home communities, while also staying active and connected. CAP utilized other funds to rehabilitate housing sold by seniors to help communities increase available housing stock for families, especially those with children.

“Stable housing is essential to the wellbeing of children and families,” said Mary Patoka, CAP’s president and CEO. “As housing costs have increased dramatically in all areas of Wisconsin, CAP’s portfolio of over 750 rental units has provided options of decent and affordable housing to many.”

WISCAP, the state’s community action trade association, also recognized others during this event. Spectra Print of Stevens Point was named WISCAP’s Outstanding Friend of Community Action. CAP Services nominated Spectra Print for its deep commitment to the community and its significant in-kind contribution of print materials, not only for CAP Services, but for the local United Way and many other nonprofits in the community.

Alice Griffin, Appleton, received this year’s Self-Sufficiency Award from WISCAP. Griffin is a single mother of five who worked successfully with CAP’s recently sunsetted Project TEAM family mentoring program to achieve her goals of finding a job closer to home, refinancing her home, and getting her finances under control.

CAP Services, Inc. is a private, nonprofit community action agency that has been advancing social and economic justice for people and communities in Marquette, Outagamie, Portage, Waupaca and Waushara counties since 1966.

Last year, CAP programs reached nearly 2,500 households with over 9,100 members. Those services resulted in people getting better jobs; securing more reliable transportation to get to work; accessing affordable housing; starting and expanding businesses; finding safe shelter and emotional support; strengthening their families and so much more.

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MID-STATE TECHNICAL COLLEGE IS COMMITTED TO YOUR SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS It is a leader’s role to accomplish organizational transformation and create a thriving enterprise in which politics, unhealthy conflict and confusion are minimized so that morale, customer focus, productivity and employee turnover are affected in positive ways. But for both leaders and employees, knowing “what to do” is not enough; learning “how to do” makes the difference. This can require new knowledge and a new approach to ensure a solid understanding of direction and strategy, as well as to develop skills in areas like communication, finance, marketing, technology and safety.

We Can Help When the Stakes are High The philosophy of Mid-State Technical College Workforce Solutions is to support both the employees and leaders of your business to remove barriers, increase efficiencies, reduce wastes, enhance skills, boost motivation, promote collaboration and provide meaningful insight into what is actually going on in your organization. Through customized workforce development programs and immediately relevant hands-on training, we can assist in your efforts to create a stronger, more profitable and healthy business in which owners, leaders, workers, suppliers, customers and communities all benefit. Our success is linked to your success.

Businesses are investing at higher and faster rates in developing their workforce because they recognize that a capable and engaged workforce enables employees to be focused on the direction and

strategy of the business, to seek and suggest ideas for improvement and efficiency, develop competencies that allow them to advance within the company and nurtures feelings of ownership and commitment to success. The competent workforce becomes the foundation for growth and competitive advantage in strong and healthy organizations and the regional economy.

As your business identifies gaps in your workforce, finding the resources to support your efforts to close those gaps becomes critical.

For the vast majority of employers, especially those with fewer than 500 employees, internal resources have always been limited. While larger employers used to be able to strategically shift internal functional experts to address organizational health, more recently organizations of all sizes have become lean and focused solely on the core competencies needed to deliver their product or service.

The Right Resources at the Right Time Mid-State Technical College Workforce Solutions can help analyze your current state, assist in identification of shortfalls and provide practical, made-to-order options for your business to fill those development gaps. It is true that one of our core businesses is helping people learn new skills by providing technical education and associate degree programs that prepare students to either enter the workforce or transfer to other colleges and universities to earn a 4-year degree. However, another core business initiative to which we are newly and fully

dedicated is working with our local employer base to develop custom workshops, sessions and classes to provide specific technical and strategic, just-in-time training that is needed to develop and retain a highly skilled pool of talent.

Mid-State Technical College Workforce Solutions is committed to collaborating with local business and industry to become a vital resource and responsive partner by assembling a team of professional subject matter experts who can deliver a wide array of highquality experiences and dynamic learning opportunities related to many of the areas that can help your business turn the “what to do” into the “how to do.” We can also provide skilled technical assistance to facilitate change or work through specific project needs. The MidState Technical College Workforce Solutions initiative is designed to support you, our business and industry partners, to recruit, develop and retain a workforce that can serve confidently with both the competence to do the work and the motivation to do it well.

In order to assist us as we develop our menu of standard offerings, as well as to connect with us regarding your specific organizational needs, please take 5 to 10 minutes to complete this NEEDS ASSESSMENT. Please let us know what we can do and how you would like us to be involved in helping to make your business stronger.

Please contact Heather GrysLuecht or 715.422.5426 for any questions.

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TH E L A S T ADVEN T U R E I NTO L E A D ERS H IP LEADERSHIP PORTAGE COUNTY, FINAL RETREAT & GRADUATION

On Thursday, May 18 the LPC class of 2016-17 concluded with a closing retreat at Wisconsin Lions Camp in Rosholt. The group spent the morning doing team building activities, sharing their personal mission statements, climbing to new heights on the Lions Camp climbing tower, and closing out a five-session instruction on Mindset from Wendy Mitch.

2016-2017 Participants

Following the day’s activities, a graduation ceremony was held.

While it wasn’t quite the summer weather we were hoping for, a good time was still had by all. LPC participants and their guests enjoyed a picnic-style dinner. Each graduating participant was recognized for their accomplishment, and a fun game of Kahoot (www.kahoot.com) was played recapping the year’s activities.

Eva Donohoo UW-Stevens Point

Special thanks to our hosts at Lions Camp, Andrea Yenter and her staff, the LPC Alumni Committee, and the LPC Class of 2016-17 graduates and their guests.

Britney Almquist Bull’s Eye Credit Union Morgan Anderson UW-Stevens Point Katie Bembenek Portage County Aging & Disability Resource Center

Dave Drozd Central Wisconsin Airport Tom Fish River Cities Bank Kelly Gardner Delta Dental of Wisconsin Becca Greening Delta Dental of Wisconsin Derek Heikkinen North Central Wisconsin Workforce Development Board Amy Jahnke Anderson O’Brien Tom Johnson Figi’s Companies, Inc.

Jamie Kiener Justiceworks, Ltd. Spencer Kohnen Paper City Savings Andy Kruit Waupaca Foundry, Inc. Nadene Miller Great Lakes Educational Loan Services Tama Niemi ABR Employment Services Dan Rosenow Sentry Insurance Lisa Schaufenbuel UW-Stevens Point Sara Totten Stevens Point Area Public School District Amy Wavrunek Sentry Insurance Jason Wilatoski Ellis Construction Julie Ann Wrobel Sentry Insurance Randy Zietlow Community First Bank

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what a year for partners in education

TALENT DEVELOPMENT It has been a busy spring for Partners in Education programming.

Most recently, PIE hosted mock interviews for 8th grade students at Ben Franklin Jr. High School.

Participating students were part of Art Greco and Kate Kaster’s College and Career Readiness course. 35 students were paired with 35 business representatives and asked general interview questions. The students had the opportunity to hear feedback on their interviewing skills and gain real-world, practical advice from the interviewers. Kayla Rombalski, PCBC’s Director of Talent Development stated “Partners in Education programming like these mock interviews provide a unique opportunity for area business representatives to interact with the future workforce, allowing Portage County’s business community to take a hands-on role in the education of potential future employees. Many of the interviewers were incredibly impressed by the professionalism and caliber of these 8th grade students.”

In addition to the mock interviews PIE arranged for classroom speakers to visit the 8th grade class as well. Reality Shops were held for Rosholt High School, Tomorrow River (Amherst) High School, and SPASH. The Reality Shop experience gives students experience in balancing a budget and prepares them for the experiences they may have after college or post-secondary goals.

Using an assigned salary based on their career aspirations students make choices to complete their monthly budget. Some students find themselves divorced, some are married, and many have children.

Budgeting within those unique life situations opens students eyes to the importance of making wise fiscal decisions early in life.

Special thanks to all who volunteered at PIE’s spring programs. We could not impact students without your dedication and support. Thank you!

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LOCAL EMPLOYERS COMBAT WORKFORCE DEFICIT TALENT DEVELOPMENT Employers tackled ways to bring jobs to north central Wisconsin Thursday’s Regional Talent Summit hosted by several Chambers of Commerce.

Wausau, Marshfield, Merrill and Portage County Chambers of Commerce partnered to help 225 attendees learn how to grow their businesses, while discovering new ways to both attract and keep employers in the north central Wisconsin area.

Edward E. Gordon of Imperial Consulting Corporation was the keynote speaker, and said one problem Wisconsin faces is filling about 200,000 vacant jobs.

“Unless this region of the state improves its job preparation and educational programs, people will leave. Other parts of the state are already doing this, and other states around all are reinventing the talent creation system,” Gordon said.

Leaders of the local chambers agree the program is only the first step in expanding the local workforce.

“Difference communities have different needs, so we’re trying to find those overreaching similarities and work on those things together,” said Dave Eckmann, President of the Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce.

Eckmann adds that the initiatives coming forward are allowing the chambers a chance to collaborate and understand how to address the workforce problem in north central Wisconsin.

By Maria Szatkowski featured story from http:// www.wsaw.com/content/news/Regional-TalentSummit-424359883.html

WE are taking apPlications for 2017-2018 Leadership Portage County class

CULTIVATING LEADERS FOR A CONNECTED COMMUNITY “What an experience! The history and pride I felt as we learned about our great county is something I will always cherish. And now I am out there exploring and sharing it with others!”

-Tama Niemi, ABR Employment Services, class of 2017

full details here!

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2017 EVENTS

June 14

Business X-Change, 7:30AM, PCBC Office

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SalesNet, 11:45AM, PCBC Office

July

15 Ignite Mix & Mingle Levitt AMP Series,

5:30PM - 7:30PM, Pfiffner Pioneer Park 17

Volunteer with Ignite at the MREA Energy Fair, 11:00AM - 2:00 PM and 2:00PM - 5:00PM

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Business After Hours, 5:00PM, Star Business Machines

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Women In Business Luncheon 11:15AM, SentryWorld, Grand Hall

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Business X-Change, 7:30AM, PCBC Office

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Ignite Summer Pop-Up Picnic 11:30AM, Sculpture Park

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SalesNet, 11:45AM, PCBC Office

Business After Hours, 5:00 PM, Stevens Point Country Club

Did you know you could post job openings, events and press releases on your membership login?

ASK US HOW TO ACCESS YOUR LOGIN

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.

ADVERTISE WITH US For questions on advertising, please contact Angel at 715-344-1940 or admin@portagecountybiz.com.

www.portagecountybiz.com

Check out member Job postings HERE! 20