Newsroom
30 Years in Tourism The Tourism Takeover encourages local residents to get out and explore tourism assets and to be a tourist in their own town.
Technology
Mobile Tech in the Workplace 4 Ways to Keep Mobile Tech from Hindering
Talent Development
Campus to Community On April 19, 2016 twenty-two UWSP students participated in the event
Productivity in the Workplace
Insights
Momentum with Initiatives In order to stem the tide of “now hiring� signs we must act
No Child’s Wet Behind
United Way Community Diaper Drive Drop off Diapers Mother’s Day Weekend-May 8 through Father’s Day Weekend-June 19 Monetary donations should be sent to United Way of Portage County, c/o Diaper Drive, 1100 Centerpoint Drive #302, Stevens Point, WI 54481 For more information, contact United Way at 715-341-6740 or uway@unitedwaypoco.org Grant recipient of
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1940
Executive Insight
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PCBC is working with community changeagents in continuing the momentum with the New ERA initiative
Technology at Work Is technology a hindering or helping productivity in the workplace?
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What’s Happening with theAmbassadors?
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Check in with the Ambassadors and their events. Did you see who received the Quarterly award?
Business on the Green The Ambassadors Club of the PCBC invites you to their 27th Annual Business on the Green golf outing and reception.
Campus to Community The purpose of the event was to provide students an opportunity to learn about the community while networking with local business representatives.
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Portage County Business Council 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
CONTACTS:
@PoCoBiz
tkuckkah@portagecountybiz..com kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com talent@portagecountybiz.com kthompso@portagecountybiz.com tkowalsk@portagecountybiz.com admin@portagecountybiz.com Portage County Business Council
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Executive Insight
written by Executive Director Todd Kuckkahn Some startling information was shared at the recent Forum 2016—Investing in People held in Appleton: • By 2024, only 25% of the jobs will
require a 4-year degree •
Currently, 52% of Wisconsin High School graduates go to a 4-year college, and
•
52% of those earn a degree
•
As we look down the road, for every one job requiring a master’s degree, there will be four requiring a bachelors and 25 requiring a minimum of a high school degree
Those of you who have participated in New ERA are well aware of the employee retention and attraction challenges we are facing in our community. In order to stem the tide of “now hiring” signs we must act as a community and engage in action. PCBC is working with community change-agents in continuing the momentum with the New ERA initiative. Ignite, a United Way initiative, is doing its part throughout the year and brought attention to the importance of young professionals during YP Week. Create Portage County is working with other community organizations in establishing the IDEA Center for Innovators, Designers, Entrepreneurs and Artists.
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Our community just completed YP Week for our young professionals. Ignite coordinated numerous experiences over the course of the week to engage our community. The Portage County Business Council was involved through a 100-day check-in for New ERA as part of YP Week. New ERA has created work groups to address concerns related to entrepreneurship, where to live, what to do, community communication, internships, and a host of other topics. If you want to get involved and couldn’t attend either New ERA event, please contact the Portage County Business Council. There needs to be a concerted and coordinated effort to retain and attract all types of employees. We are blessed with quality K-12 schools that offer choices to families. Mid-State Technical College is in our downtown and UW-Stevens Point has a footprint that expands beyond Stevens Point. Through Partners In Education (PIE), our combined efforts drill down all the way to the third grade with the recent coding project we did with several businesses and Pacelli Catholic Schools. We need to continue to engage the schools, non-profits, municipalities and businesses to create a culture promoting all our community has to offer.
Hopefully, you can join us June 15th for the PCBC Business-Education Summit titled, Entreprelooza.
Entreprelooza Wednesday, June 15 8:00-Noon Who Should Attend: 1. Teachers/Counselors/School Administrators—sharing their stories and learning more about the role business can play in enhancing education without an additional burden on already stretched education resources 2. Non-Profits—sharing their impact and learning what others are doing to meet the needs of business and tailoring programs to specific school needs as well as reducing duplication of efforts among organizations 3. Businesses—sharing their efforts and needs and learning about what is available in the schools and through non-profits to enhance their talent proposition through our education system
HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!
The Active Voice • May 2016
The rise of mobile workers, business and collaboration has made mobile devices an essential workplace tool. In fact, Wrike’s 2016 Mobile Productivity Report found that 90 percent of the more than 850 professionals surveyed said they viewed the use of a mobile device as critical to getting their jobs done. Yet, while the report made it clear that mobile devices are a necessary tool for today’s workers, it also revealed that 30 percent of professionals surveyed thought their mobile devices hindered their work-life balance. So, which is it? Are mobile devices helpful work tools -- or stress machines? To assure that employees get the most from their devices, employers need to set parameters for these devices’ use, both in and outside the office. With the right parameters in place, mobile tech will continue to help, not hurt productivity. Here are four guidelines: 1. Pick the right tool for the task. All mobile devices are not created equal. As such, some devices are better suited for certain tasks than others. Different employees will need different tools, devices and apps to get their work done efficiently. Seventy-two percent of professionals surveyed in the Wrike study, for instance, said mobile devices weren’t ideal for detailed work or long-form writing. But they did see them as a big asset
4 Ways to Keep Mobile Tech from Hindering Productivity in the Workplace Move over BYOB (beer), it’s all about BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) in today’s workplace. Written By: HEATHER R. HUHMAN Career and Workplace Expert; Founder and President, Come Recommended for sending email (98 percent), using search engines for work (87 percent), viewing documents and files (81 percent) and using project management or collaboration apps (81 percent). To help employees make the most of their mobile devices, provide them with the right tools and resources. Don’t overwhelm them with tech or burden them with having to learn multiple devices or programs -- give each employee what makes sense for his or her role. 2. Set limits. While mobile technology can make us more productive, it can also foment burnout. The 2015 Staples Business Advantage Workplace Index found that about a quarter of the 2,602 employees surveyed said they regularly worked after the standard workday was done. What’s more, about four out of 10 of those employees worked on weekends at least once a month.
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With mobile technology enabling us to access work-related items whenever and wherever, it’s no wonder that so many employees continue to respond to emails or think about work long after clocking out for the day.
biggest time-waster. In fact, about half of employees surveyed in the Staples study acknowledged receiving too many emails; about one-third of those employees said email overload hurt their productivity.
To avoid mobile-induced burnout, set time limits on when emails may be sent, opened or responded to, and when platforms and apps may be accessed, to give everyone some muchneeded down time.
To keep communication flowing, adopt a “facefirst” policy, where everyone uses face-toface communication first, if possible. After all, there’s no need to send a neighboring co-worker an email -- which may or may not get read in time for that 2 p.m. meeting -- if the recipient’s desk is within walking distance.
Above all, don’t tempt employees to work in the evening or on their days off, sending emails that can wait. This way, employees will achieve a better work-life balance and feel more productive during work hours. 3. Adopt a ‘face-first’ policy. Email can be the most efficient communication tool, or it can be the
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Not only does such a policy ensure questions are answered and important items are received in a timely manner, it keeps inboxes from overflowing -- and who doesn’t want that? 4. Support flexibility. While mobile technology may make it tempting to work from home or sit on a beach in the Bahamas, the flexibility that mobile devices create can also make employees more productive. In fact, 59 percent of employees surveyed in the Staples study said flexible schedules were a key factor to productivity.
Use mobile tools to make flexibility possible and easier to manage for leaders, HR and employees. Tools like WISP, a mobile employee Intranet, can keep employees connected, no matter where they work. Just be sure that the right parameters are in place to keep staffers from working when they shouldn’t. https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/273289
The Active Voice • May 2016
What’s Happening with the Ambassadors? On April 7th members of our Ambassadors Club and PCBC staff visited new PCBC member Plover VFW Post 10262 located at 2970 Hickory Drive in Plover. Members of the Post provided us a great tour and details about the organization.
Members of our Ambassadors Club and PCBC staff joined Maureen Mason & Candace Richter of Knight Barry Title Services for their ribbon cutting celebration and open house the afternoon of April 6th. Their office is located at 3060 Village Park Drive in Plover.
Terri Taylor Honored as Ambassador of the 1st Quarter 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 first quarter of 2016, Terri Taylor was named the Ambassador of the Quarter. Terri is Director of Major Events, Alumni Affairs UWSP Foundation. She has been an Ambassador since 2001. Congratulations Terri on your recent achievement. The Business Council Board of Directors, Ambassadors Club and staff appreciate your efforts!
NPC to Offer Scholarship for Graduate Student Advancing the Potato Industry The National Potato Council (NPC) will award one $10,000 academic scholarship to honor a graduate student (Master’s degree or higher) working to improve the future of the U.S. potato industry. The deadline for the scholarship is June 15, 2016 and it will be awarded in August 2016 towards the 2016-2017 academic year. Final scholarship selection is based on the following criteria: past academic achievement, leadership ability, potato-related areas of graduate study, goals, benefit to the potato industry, extracurricular activities, grades and potential commercial value. All interested parties are invited to apply. The winner will be invited to display his or her work at the Potato Research Poster Sessions during Potato Expo 2017, January 4-6, 2017, in San Francisco, California. If you have any questions, please contact Hillary Hutchins at 202-682-9456. If you have any questions, please contact Hillary Hutchins at 202682-9456 or visit http://www. nationalpotatocouncil org/events-andprograms/scholarship-program.
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Team Schierl Companies named Subway Area Franchisee of the Year for 2015
Team Schierl Companies, owners of 19 Central Wisconsin based Subway restaurants were named 2015 Subway franchisee of the year at a regional conference held in Green Bay in early March. Team Schierl is part of a territory of Subway franchisees that encompasses the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and the northern 2/3 of the state of Wisconsin, totaling 250 stores.
Mike Jameson, CEO of Subway Development states: “Team Schierl was chosen because of the commitment to the continued successful growth of the Subway Brand in this territory. Their commitment to building efficient 21st century facilities, continued emphasis on employee growth and training as well as investing in the latest technologies made this a popular choice with their fellow franchisees. We look forward to Team Schierl continuing in a leadership position well into the future.” Members of the Subway voting committee stated it’s clear that Team Schierl focuses on providing their managers and staff with the tools and support they need to be successful. Team Schierl also takes advantage of the latest technology initiatives such as Live IQ Labor, Subventory and Subway dashboard when goal setting. It is very clear that Team Schierl is hiring the right support people for the Subway portion of their company to stay on the path of success for the foreseeable future. Tim Schierl, Co-CEO of Team Schierl states, “We are very honored by the award and humbled. We do things the way we do to ensure each Subway guest has a wonderful experience at all of our locations. We also believe in continued growth just as Subway does, so our partnership is mutually beneficial. ” Team Schierl Companies was established in 1956 by Butch (John) Schierl Pictured: Lisa Sadowski, Subway Franchise World in the home heating oil business. TSC is currently owned and operated Headquarters and Jennifer Kurzinski, Retail by John’s three sons, Tim, Fritz, and Bill Schierl. TSC operates 52 retail Operations Specialist, Team Schierl Companies locations in Wisconsin and the upper peninsula of Michigan focusing primarily in service industries. In “Building Tomorrow Together,” Team Schierl Companies employs over 500 Associates between The Store, Subway, Schierl and Hartje Tire & Service Centers, Cousins Subs, and Team Administration. For more information visit www.teamschierl.com or call (715) 345-5060.
CAP Services National Read-Aloud Month CAP Services’ Family Development Center in Stevens Point celebrated National Read-Aloud Month in March by hosting special guest readers including Stevens Point Mayor Mike Wiza, State Representative Katrina Shankland and State Senator Julie Lassa. The guests read to Head Start children at the center as part of the nationwide effort to highlight the many benefits of reading aloud to young children.
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The Active Voice • May 2016
Business After Hours May 16, 2016 5:00PM to 7:00PM No Cost to Attend Sponsored by: Located at 2801 Post Road, Plover, WI 54467
Please note that lanes are open to Duraclean Specialists while Post Road is under construction! Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, various demonstrations, door prize giveaways and a 50/50 raffle. 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. 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, May 13, 2016.
Register online WEDC Launches "Made In Wisconsin" Program. What better testament to the innovation, integrity and quality that separates your products from those originating elsewhere? Now, you can proudly stamp your state pride on your work. The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation has developed a Made In Wisconsin logo for companies to use. The logo can be adapted to reflect your production processes. Options include:
• • • • • • • •
MAP
Made In Wisconsin Manufactured In Wisconsin Produced In Wisconsin Built In Wisconsin Grown In Wisconsin Designed In Wisconsin Engineered In Wisconsin Brewed In Wisconsin
There is no cost to use this certification mark. Companies that wish to participate fill out a simple application stating how they will use the logo and certifying that the product or service on which they seek to use the mark fulfills program requirements. The Program complements the Wisconsin Department of Trade, Agriculture and Consumer Projection’s Something Special from Wisconsin™ Program, offering you two ways to show your state pride. For more information, visit Made.InWisconsin.com.
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Thank you to our Diamond Sponsors
GRE
Business on the
The Ambassadors Club of the Portage County Business Council invites you to their 27th Annual Business on the Green golf outing. The event is scheduled for Monday, June 6th with a shotgun start at 9:30am at the Stevens Point Country Club and SentryWorld golf courses.
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The Active Voice • May 2016
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fter the golf outing, designed course features the stunning golfers are invited to signature flower hole harboring 50,000 join us at the 19th Hole flowers. Networking Event taking place at the Holiday Inn $130 Per Golfer at the Stevens Point Hotel & Convention Center, 1001 Amber Country Club and You Receive: Avenue, Stevens Point beginning at 18 Holes of Golf (includes green fees) 3:00pm with a picnic themed plentiful buffet style service featuring grilled Motorized Cart hamburgers and brats with rolls and Range Balls condiments, vegetable crudité, potato Two Beverage Tickets salad, fruit salad, chips with French (for domestic beer or soda) onion dip, delicious apple pie for Lunch on Course dessert, coffee, water, cash bar, raffle Golf Bag with goodies inside prizes, and awards to entertain those Lunch Bag attending. Dinner ticket for 19th Hole Networking Golfers in this year’s outing have the Event at the Holiday Inn Hotel & opportunity to choose from two highly Convention Center rated Wisconsin courses. The Stevens Point Country Club, a private course Plus 19th Hole Networking Event built in 1925, is an 18-hole Bent grass including: course and home of the 2000 Wisconsin Raffle Drawings State Open. SentryWorld, a corporately Hole Event Announcements owned public golf course and sports Golf Team Prizes complex. This Robert Trent Jones Jr. Cash Bar Plus Much More
Register for
DINNER & SOCIAL ONLY To register for golf: SentryWorld Sorry, SOLD OUT Click Here to register at the Stevens Point Country Club
Hole Events Hole-in-One Event at the Stevens Point Country Club to win a $10,000 Hawaiian Golf Vacation including 8 days / 7 nights at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Kapalua. Package includes roundtrip airfare for two, four rounds of golf per person and $1,500 spending cash, compliments of Mark Motors Automotive.
Hole-In-One Event at SentryWorld to win your very own 2016 Can-Am Commander 800R-DPS valued at $13,800 or any new power-sport equipment at Donahue Super Sports, compliments of The Portage County Bank
Not a Golfer, but want to join in on the fun… DINNER & SOCIAL ONLY PACKAGE: Plan to join us for an afternoon/ evening filled with great food, friendly conversation, and an opportunity to win some great door prizes. 3:00PM Social, Cash Bar, Dinner Buffet and Prize Giveaways Dinner Only Package @ $25 per person
CLICK HERE FOR PACKAGE DETAILS
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ou have a great opportunity to be further involved in Business on the Green event scheduled for Monday, June 6th by taking advantage of a Sponsorship…only a few spots remain! Don’t miss this! Contact Karen Schanock at kschanoc@ portagecountybiz.com or at 715-3441940 TODAY for details. Other opportunities are also available…
Diamond Sponsor 2 Remianing
Double Gold Sponsor SOLD OUT
Corporate sponsor of hole at both courses Associated Bank with foursome packages BioLife Plasma Services CliftonLarsonAllen LLP Office Enterprises Inc
Gold Sponsors SOLD OUT Hole Event Prize Sponsors Corporate donation of prize(s) for special event games on golf course(s) Company name on signs during the event at two courses and signage at the 19th Hole Networking Event Verbal recognition at 19th Hole Networking Event Ditty Bag Giveaway Sponsors Corporate donation of 300 giveaways for golfers Company name on signs during the event at two courses and signage at the 19th Hole Networking Event We appreciate your consideration and support of this event.
Click Here for a complete list of sponsorship opportunities. To confirm your sponsorship, please contact Karen Schanock at (715) 344-1940 or kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com. We appreciate your consideration and support of this event.
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Beverage Sponsors SOLD OUT
Corporate Beverage sponsors of all beverage carts at two courses
Corporate sponsors of one hole at the golf First Weber Realtors – Steve Lane & Seth event with foursome package Hornung Mitchell’s Hilltop Pub & Restaurant Advanced Disposal Services Midwest Pointe Precision Inc Anderson O’Brien Regnier Consulting Group Inc BMO Harris Bank Stone Innovations Inc Bull’s Eye Credit Union US Bank Central City Credit Union C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc Lunch Sponsors 2 Remaining Community First Bank Corporate sponsors of Luncheon Del Monte Foods Inc at two courses Delta Dental of Wisconsin Donaldson Company Inc Altmann Construction Company Inc Ellis Stone Construction Company Inc CoVantage Credit Union Figi’s Inc Pointe Precision Inc Klasinski Clinic S.C. Swiderski LLC Point of Beginning Inc Rettler Corporation Lunch Bag Sponsor SOLD OUT Schulist’s Custom Cabinets Inc Corporate sponsor of lunch bags at two Sentry Insurance (2 Gold Sponsorships) courses Skyward The Murphy Insurance Group LLC Comfort Suites The Pineries Bank Members’ Advantage Credit Union
Gold (2) Sponsors
Silver Sponsor SOLD OUT
ABR Employment Services AT&T Atrium Senior Living of Stevens Point at River View Lodge Country Inn & Suites Ho-Chunk Gaming Nekoosa Keller Inc Marshfield Clinic Ministry Employer Solutions Pat’s CARSTAR Auto Body Stevens Point Brewery Team Schierl Companies
Central City Credit Union
Corporate sponsors of one hole at the golf event
This opportunity for sponsorship is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Hole-in-One Sponsors SOLD OUT
Corporate sponsor of hole at both courses Corporate sponsors of Hole-in-One contest with foursome packages Mark Motors Automotive Inc Ministry Health Care The Portage County Bank Sentry Insurance Solarus Putting Contest Sponsors SOLD OUT Corporate sponsor of Putting contest
Corporate sponsor of Runner Carts at both courses
Specialty Cheese & Sausage Tray Corporate sponsor at the 19th hole. Ski’s Meat Market
The Active Voice • May 2016
WOMEN I N B USINESS
Presented by Wisconsin Public Service
THURSDAY, JUNE 23, 2016, SENTRYWORLD GRAND HALL
Guest Speaker: Roger Seip, CEO, Freedom Personal Development
Join us for our June Women in Business as guest speaker presents:
“TRAIN YOUR BRIAN FOR SUCCESS”. When it comes to breaking records, Roger Seip walks the walk. Freedom Personal Development has consistently grown and broken records for more than 15 years. Roger is the author of “Train Your Brian for Success”, a national bestseller on how individuals can remember more, read smarter and break records in their lives.
Register here
Equally important, Roger is a master at teaching what works. He’s delivered more than 2000 presentations for organizations with audiences giving raving reviews for the improvement they immediately see, both professionally and personally. Roger also spent eight years as a For questions contact professional stand-up comic, so you Karen Schanock at 715-344-1940 know there’s guaranteed laughter or kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com. and fun with his presentation!
Special thanks to our Media Sponsor Midwest Communications Radio Group
Mark Your Calendars for these future Women in Business Events: --------------------------Thursday, September 26, 2016 To be held at Stevens Point Country Club Presented by Daubert Law Firm ---------------------------
Location: SentryWorld Grand Hall, 601 N Michigan Avenue, Stevens Point Cost: $25/person PCBC Members $30/person Prospective PCBC Members
Thursday, December 8, 2016 To be held at Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center Presented by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection
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2016 Pro-Tech Service Award for Service Excellence Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) today announces that Office Enterprises, Inc. of Weston, WI has been honored with a 2016 Pro-Tech Service Award which recognizes those Konica Minolta dealerships that demonstrate the highest commitment to customer support and satisfaction. “Konica Minolta is committed to assuring the highest performance standards across our organization,” says James Ingrassia, vice president, solutions support division, Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. “The Pro-Tech Service Award represents achievement of Konica Minolta’s highest standards for dealer service and proficiency.” A Pro-Tech Service Award winner for the sixth time, Office Enterprises, Inc. headed by Bob Lamovec, President is dedicated to delivering professional, reliable service and
Ellis Construction Renovates Aspirus Aspirus Wausau Hospital has awarded Ellis Construction a contract for the expansion and renovation of its cancer center, ambulance garage, and food service areas. The architect for the project is Plunkett Raysich Architects (PRA) of Milwaukee. The project is part of the new campus master plan for the hospital, and the 17,000 square foot project is expected to be completed
maximum performance for Konica Minolta’s awardwinning solutions. To attain the Pro-Tech standard, each element of Office Enterprises, Inc. operation was evaluated and measured, including its management skills, inventory control systems, technical expertise, dispatch systems and customer satisfaction ratings.
“We are pleased, yet again, to receive the Pro-Tech Award from Konica Minolta. Our commitment to taking care of our customers is second to none and earning the Pro-Tech Award further proves this.” Bob Lamovec, President, Office Enterprises, Inc., Weston WI. http://www.off-ent.com
in phases over the next 24-30 months. Improvements include the ambulance garage will double the capacity to 4 ambulances. The cancer center 7,000 square feet expansion will include new PET/ CT imaging services.
DEMERS HONORED BY THRIVENT FINANCIAL FOR OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE Daniel Demers, FIC, Stevens Point, a Financial Representative with Thrivent Financial, has qualified to attend the Summit Circle conference by providing outstanding financial guidance, solutions and service to members of the organization in 2015. Only 226 of Thrivent Financial’s more than 2,300 financial representatives qualified for this honor. Demers will be recognized by his peers from across the country at Thrivent Financial’s annual conference in Nashville. Demers has been with Thrivent Financial for 3 years. He has been recognized for his performance 4 times.
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The Active Voice • May 2016
What’s the best fruit beer brewed in the United States?
Class Organizes Fundraiser for K-9 Unit Ninth grade students at Ben Franklin Jr. High organized a Fishing Tournament fundraiser to benefit the Portage Co. Sheriff’s K-9 Unit. Art Greco’s “World of Business” class organized the fundraiser as their project based learning experience. The fundraiser event, held on April 30, 2016 from 10 AM to 2 PM, at Lower Whiting Park. A fishing tournament, kids games, face painting, and food, in addition to special appearances by the Portage Co. K-9 unit and Sheriff Mike Lukas, as well as other activities were scheduled. The students continue to accept donations. If you were not able to make it and would like to donate, please make checks out to Ben Franklin Jr. High School – Memo: WOB. Send it to 2000 Polk Street, Stevens Point, Wisconsin 54481, attention to Art Greco. The students organized the event themselves, with assistance from teacher Art Greco, as part of an authentic learning experience in understanding how businesses are operated and how business professionals network in the community. The class hopes to raise at least $1,500 to present to the K-9 unit before school is out. Students worked in the school as well raising just over $260 by selling baked goods to teachers and fellow students. The Portage Co. K-9 unit assists local law enforcement in taking illegal narcotics off the streets of local communities. According to Chief Deputy Dan Kontos, the program is run entirely by private donations. For more information, contact Art Greco at (715) 3455413 between 7am & 3pm M-F or agreco@pointschools. net.
According to the Los Angeles International Beer Competition judges, it’s Siesta Key Citrus Pale Ale from the Stevens Point Brewery, which received the gold medal in 2016 competition’s American-Style Fruit Beer category. The judges also decided America’s best Blonde Ale comes from Stevens Point, too, and crowned Point Drop Dead Blonde Ale the gold medal winner in the Golden or Blonde Ale category. In addition, Point Special Lager won the silver medal in the American-Style Lager, Light Lager or Premium Lager judging; the brewery’s Ciderboys Peach County hard cider received the silver in the Standard Cider & Perry category; and Point Classic Amber Lager earned the bronze in the American-style Amber Lager segment. “Winning any medal in a wellregarded beer judging like the Los Angeles International Beer Competition is quite an honor when you consider that more than 1,000 beers from across the country were entered. To receive five medals, including two golds, is especially exciting for all us at the Stevens Point Brewery and for our loyal fans, too,” said Joe Martino, Stevens Point Brewery Managing Partner. “These awards are more proof that Stevens Point Brewery brews some of the best craft beers in America.” Gold medal winner Point Siesta Key Citrus Pale Ale was introduced just a few weeks ago at retail located wherever Point brands are sold. An American-style pale ale available from April through August, Siesta Key is brewed with Vic Secret hops, a new variety developed in Australia’s Victoria state, and fresh grapefruit juice from Florida. Point’s brewers dry hop the ale twice during the brewing process for an inviting hops flavor and aroma. For more information about the Stevens Point Brewery, please visit www.pointbeer.com <http://www.pointbeer.com/> or call 1-800-369-4911 . Tours of the brewery are available; schedules are listed on the website. http://www.spcitytimes.com/point-brewery-shines-atinternational-beer-convention/
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5.11.16 \\ 7:30 A.M. - 8:30 A.M. \\ PCBC FOUNDATION ROOM
» CLICK HERE TO REGISTER 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.
Business X-Change meets regularly throughout the year from 7:30 - 8:30am at the Portage County Business Council office.
TOPIC: “BUSINESS SUCCESSION PLANNING WITH BUY/SELL AGREEMENTS” At this X-Change participants will learn: • •
• • • •
What is a Buy-Sell Agreement Reasons to have a buy sell agreement (basically a few short case studies of what happens when businesses don’t have a buy sell agreement) Events that “trigger” the buy sell agreement Purchase Price determination under the buy sell agreement Uses in business succession planning Uses in Medicaid eligibility planning
About our Speaker:
Attorney Krautkramer focuses his practice on business law, real estate, tax, probate and trust administration. He is licensed to practice law in Wisconsin. He double majored as an undergraduate and has a B.B.A. in Accounting and Finance, Attorney Investment and Banking from Jason Krautkramer the University of WisconsinMadison. He also has a Master of Accountancy with an emphasis in Taxation from the University of WisconsinMadison. He is originally from Marathon, Wisconsin, and recently moved back to the Wausau area after graduating from the University of Wisconsin Law School.
Special THANK YOU to Daubert Law Firm LLC for their sponsorship of this program.
Promote Your Business To Incoming UWSP Students! The Business Council and the Ambassadors Club will sponsor a
years. These students are current and potentially future employees
community information booth at the Dreyfus University Center
of your organization. Here is your chance to access 1,700 student
during UW-Stevens Point’s New First-Year Orientation Program June
customers, 1,700 parents, siblings, relatives and friends (when they
6 – June 28, 2016. The booth will be set up from 11:30 am – 1:00 pm.
visit) customers, 1,700 current potential employees, 1,700 potential
The booth provides information from Business Council members and
interns, to 1,700 future potential employees!
Portage County to new students and their parents. Business Council members interested in displaying their brochures In past years, this booth has been a great success. Over 1,000 people
should drop off 600 copies at the Business Council office no later than
have stopped to pick up information for new students and parents
Friday, May 13, 2016. For questions, contact Karen Schanock at 715-
who will visit Portage County during the years that their child attends
344-1940 or kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com.
UWSP. Approximately 1,700 freshmen will enter UW-Stevens Point this fall. They will likely spend MILLIONS of dollars over the next four
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The Active Voice • May 2016
member of the MONTH \\
Each month the Active Voice features a PCBC “Member of the Month” selected from a list of members that begins with the same letter of the alphabet.
WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST MEMBERS
EYE CLINIC OF WISCONSIN 800 North 1st Street Wausau, WI 54403 Office: 715-261-8540 Fax: 715-261-8667 At the Eye Clinic of Wisconsin, we believe that clear vision is priceless. Watching a sunrise or a favorite movie, seeing a child ride a bike for the first time, reading a favorite book, or looking through old photos – vision is the most important of the senses. It brings joy to our lives and allows us to experience the beauty of our world. We also believe that clear vision requires comprehensive, experienced care. That is why the Eye Clinic of Wisconsin offers integrated care for all types of vision. With offerings including Blade Free ecLASIK, Advanced Cataract Treatment, Oculoplastic services, medical and surgical treatments for glaucoma, retinal surgery services, and pediatric eye care, the Eye Clinic of Wisconsin is eye care’s definition of full-service. We believe in empowering people to live life to its fullest. We are proud to offer Optical, Hearing, and Cosmetic services to enhance your ability to sense and experience the world around you. For 50 years, the Eye Clinic of Wisconsin has been privileged to care for vision throughout northern and central Wisconsin. On our site, you will learn more about the ways we can care for your vision. We hope you will learn a lot, ask any questions you have, schedule an appointment, and tell a friend. To make an appointment, learn more about our vision services, or discuss your vision options, call the Eye Clinic of Wisconsin at 800.472.0033.
http://eyeclinicwi.com/news/general/nikki-mias-eye-clinic-wisconsin-adventure/
All Women Expo PO Box 96 Amherst, WI 54406 (715) 824-5659
What are the BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP? • Your business representatives are invited to educational and networking events • List your own business’ events, jobs, and deals on portagecountybiz.com • Receive referrals from other PCBC members • Become a special event sponsor to promote your business • Display your marketing materials in the PCBC lobby and on the PCBC website • Participate in your local community
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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30 Years in
Tourism The Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (SPACVB) will celebrate a milestone of 30 years in destination marketing and tourism growth in 2016. In honor of the 30th Anniversary, the Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau will be hosting several events and promotions as part of National Travel & Tourism Week, May 1-7, 2016.
#TourismIsSweet Tourism Takeover #TourismIsSweet - Tourism Takeover encourages local residents to get out and explore tourism assets and to be a tourist in their own town. The second annual Tourism Takeover will be held at Belt’s Soft Serve and King Cone, popular spots in the Stevens Point Area. In honor of the Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau’s 30th Anniversary, locals are invited to enjoy a $0.30 sweet treat. At Belt’s Soft Serve, you are invited to enjoy a small menu item of your choice for $0.30. The offer is only available on Wednesday, May 4, starting at 6:00 p.m. Offer limited to the first 200 people. Limit one per person, while supplies last. Belt’s will
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also be offering a $0.30 Junior Cone, available on Wednesday, May 4 all day. At King Cone, the public is invited to enjoy a small scoop of your choice (in a cup or a cake cone) for $0.30. The offer is only available on Wednesday, May 4, starting at 6:00 p.m. Offer limited to the first 200 people. Limit one per person, while supplies last. Fun Friday – Tourism Open House The Tourism Open House, on Friday, May 6 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., welcomes people to stop by the Visitors Center, 340 Division Street North, Stevens Point, for some sweet treats and to learn more about tourism in the Stevens Point Area. Tourism is a major industry in the Stevens Point Area, bringing more than $111 million dollars in traveler expenditures annually. More 30th Anniversary Fun Visit StevensPointArea.com/30 for more 30th Anniversary activities and events. Learn more about the events, take a quiz to find out what 1986 song describes your Stevens Point Area Travel personality, scroll through the digital tourism time capsule, and
find fun ways to celebrate 30 years in the Stevens Point Area. Don’t forget to add to the fun using the hashtags #TourismIsSweet. “These events allow us to engage with the local residents who don’t realize that tourism is an important part of the economy throughout Portage County,” said Sara Brish, Executive Director of the Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. “We hope to engage with locals during the second Tourism Takeover during National Travel & Tourism Week to showcase some of the tourism resources we have that they might not be aware of. “ The Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau is an economic and community development organization whose purpose is to expand Portage County’s economy by attracting conventions, sporting events and leisure tourists to Portage County. Millions of dollars from visitor spending and increased tax revenues are generated to increase commerce, sustain jobs and to create a desirable destination.
For more information on the Stevens Point area, visit www.stevenspointarea.com. You can also find the Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau on Facebook (www.facebook.com/StevensPointArea), Twitter (www.twitter.com/StevensPtArea) Pinterest (www.pinterest.com/StevensPtArea)
County Business ThePortage Active Voice â&#x20AC;˘ May 2016 Council Foundation
Campus to Community Talent Showcase Event
On April 19, 2016 twenety-two UWSP students participated in the Campus to Community Talent Showcase event. The purpose of the event was to provide students an opportunity to learn about the community while networking with local business representatives. The event showcased Portage County communities and businesses in an effort to attract and retain talent while providing opportunities for students to network with potential employers. The students began their afternoon with a guided bus tour of Stevens Point and Plover businesses. Paige Shebesta, PCBCF intern, and Todd Kuckkahn, Executive Director, pointed out major employers in the area to the students. In the Business Park the
students had an opportunity to get off the bus and tour Skywardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new facility at 2601 Skyward Drive. After the bus tour, students headed to SentryWorld for a Q&A session with a few business panelists. Thank you to Lorraine Avery of Associated Bank, Tom Bourbonnais of RPE, Kelly Wisniewski of Sentry Insurance, and Kate Knight of Skyward for volunteering to be panelists, answering students questions about what life is like in Portage County and what types of jobs their companies offer. The Q&A session was followed by some informal networking time with students and members of Ignite Young Professionals Network, as well as the panelists. We are thankful to all who participated, but especially our sponsors: SentryWorld, Sentry Insurance, Skyward, and UWSP.
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Portage County Business Council Foundation
The April session of LPC focused on health and wellness. We had a packed day of wellness activities. We began the morning with a continued presentation on Mindset from Wendy Mitch. John Munson gave us an overview of the dimensions of wellness. Next we had a tour of Adventure 212 Fitness and were led through a basic workout. Dana Frederickson then taught us a bit about Biometrics. We enjoyed a delicious lunch from Chef Sal at Bistro 212 before heading to our afternoon at The Wellness Spa. We began the afternoon with a presentation from Cory Huck on putting our wellness knowledge into practice and making it a habit. After a few class speeches we were able to hear from Deb Adams, owner of Wellness Spa. We ended our day with the chance to get up and move – Deb led us through a 30 minute Tai Chi/Qi Gong class and followed that up with a 45 minute Qi Garden Salt Spa session. It was a relaxing day! Our next and final session is May 19 at Wisconsin Lion’s Camp.
MAKE A COMMITMENT TO ATTEND OR SEND SOMEONE TO LPC IN 2016/2017 Plan on making 2016 the year to network, hone your leadership skills, and give back to the community through Leadership Portage County. The program dates below will help you plan around the LPC sessions. The 2016/2017 LPC brochure is available by clicking HERE, and the application for the 2016-2017 program is available HERE. 2016-2017 LPC Dates August 18 & 19, 2016 – History of Portage County September 15, 2016 – Business, Industry & Technology
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October 20, 2016 - Agribusiness November 17, 2016 – Government & Community December 15, 2016 – Human & Public Services January 19, 2017 – Legal System February 16, 2017 – Education & Workforce Development March 16, 2017 – Economic Development & Infrastructure April 20, 2017 – Health, Wellness & Community Service May 2, 2017 - Spring Celebration May 18, 2017 – Putting Knowledge into Action
Portage County Business Council Foundation
The Active Voice • May 2016
Career Exploration Day On April 8 a Career Exploration Day was held at Rosholt High School. Students had the opportunity to hear from a variety of different career speakers; ranging from marketing to automotive technician to armed forces. The students rotated between three speakers, choosing those they were most
interested in learning about. More than 250 students from the school, grades 7-12 participated. Thank you to all the speakers who took part in this event, and to PCBC’s Talent Development Intern Paige Shebesta for coordinating it.
Reality Workshop On Friday, April 29 Partners In Education held a field trip day for students from Amherst and Rosholt School Districts. Students had the opportunity to tour MSTC’s Stevens Point campus and UWSP; participate in a Junior Achievement program – “Excellence through Ethics”, and participate in a Reality Shop. Approximately 150 students from the two schools participated in these activities.
The Reality Shop was held in the Community Engagement Room at MSTC. Students attending indicated which career they wanted and were in turn given the starting salary in WI for that career as well
as a family scenario. Students determined their net monthly income and worked through the budget process to make their expenses meet their income. It is an eye-opening experience for these students as some struggle to make their budgets balance. Many thanks to the 15+ community members that volunteered their time at the Reality Shop, to our hosts at MSTC and UWSP, and to Junior Achievement for partnering to offer the Excellence Through Ethics program.
A Reality Shop was also held at SPASH on April 7.
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2016 May 3 6 9 11 12 16 19 30
Annual Spring Celebration 5:00 - 8:30 p.m., Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center Small Business Breakfast 7:15 a.m, Stevens Point Country Club Business Engagement Committee 7:30 a.m., PCBC Business X-Change 7:30-8:30 a.m., PCBC Ambassadors Club Meeting 8:00 a.m., PCBC Business After Hours 5:00-7:00 p.m. Duraclean Specialists SalesNet Meeting 11:45 a.m., PCBC Office Closed – Memorial Day Holiday
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For questions, please contact Angel at 715-344-1940 or admin@portagecountybiz.com.
PORTAGE COUNTY GIFT CERTIFICATES Purchasing Portage County gift certificates continues to be a successful way to “Buy Local”. Portage County gift certificates make great gifts. Gift certificates can be purchased at area banks, credit unions, the Convention and Visitors Bureau or at our office. They can be used at any business with a Portage County address and are available in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $25, $50 & $100. The PCBC would like to thank everyone who participates for helping make the program successful. We would also like to thank BMO Harris Bank for their financial support of the gift certificate program.
June
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Business on the Green
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Business X-Change
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Business Education Summit
16 SalesNet 20
Business After Hours
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LPC Alumni Empty Bowls Painting
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Women in Business
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www.portagecountybiz.com Check out community Job postings HERE!