March 2024 Better Together Newsletter Update

March 2024

From The Desk Of The CEO

“The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined effort of each individual.” – Vince Lombardi

In This Issue

We look forward to our Executive Series with Kristin Blanchard Stearns of Lakeshore Community Community Health Care at the end of March!

Upcoming Events

February was an extremely busy month at the Chamber. We were thrilled to kick off the “Make Your Mark” Workforce Development Marketing and Attraction Campaign, in partnership with Sheboygan County. We recognize that workforce availability continues to be a struggle in our community, and we are dedicated to recruiting new neighbors to help build up our county even further and to fill very important roles for local employers. If you are looking to expand your workforce, please reach out to the Chamber to learn how this campaign can support your efforts. It is free to all Sheboygan County employers.

We also had the pleasure of celebrating so many successes at the Annual Chamber Champions Gala in February. Oh, what a night! Thank you to all our sponsors, judges, attendees and partners that helped to make this evening special and congratulations to all nominees and winners. The pride in Sheboygan County is tremendous, and we are blessed to be a part of it.

Spring is right around the corner, and we are busy preparing for several programs and events. Keep an eye out for ways to connect with other chambers, *New* professional development opportunities and *New* additions to the Chamber team.

We want you to Think BIG (betterment, improvement, growth), Influence Local! The Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce is committed to providing expertise for fostering dynamic organizations throughout Sheboygan County. We are truly Better Together!

03.07.24

Ribbon Cutting:

Sheboygan Auto GroupQuick Lube Plus

03.07.24

Coastal YP’s: First-Time Homebuyers Jeopardy

03.13.24

Out to Lunch with Deidre Martinez: Leicht’s Waldo Cafe

03.13.24

Out to Dinner with Coastal YP’s: Olive Garden

03.14.24

vibe@5: Panacea Smart Solutions

Deidre Martinez

03.15.24

Ribbon Cutting: Bestea

Kierra BrooksSpecial Events Coordinator & Office Assistant

Happy March!!

“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.”

– Seneca

03.26.24

Ribbon Cutting: Modern Workmen of America

03.28.24

Executive Series: Kristin Blanchard Stearns, Lakeshore Community Health Care

First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to making February such a remarkable month for both the Chamber and our Coastal Young Professionals. The turnout for all our events, including the Gala, was nothing short of fantastic. For those who missed out, believe me, it was an experience to remember!

As we step into March, we’re thrilled to present an array of exciting Coastal YP and Chamber events, each designed not only for networking but also for personal and professional growth. Mark your calendars for our upcoming “FirstTime Homebuyers Jeopardy” game on March 7th, a unique opportunity to demystify the home-buying process. Even if the prospect of purchasing a home seems daunting, this event promises valuable insights and expert guidance at every step. Additionally, our March lineup features the Coastal YP Out to Dinner series at Olive Garden on the 13th, a vibrant vibe@5 gathering at Panacea Smart Solutions and an exclusive Executive Series. Make the most of these events — attend as many or as few as you prefer.

Furthermore, March heralds the launch of nominations for the prestigious Best Under 40 Awards. Undoubtedly, you know fellow young professionals deserving of recognition for their remarkable contributions to our community. The nomination form will outline all necessary criteria, and should you have any queries along the way, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Here’s to an extraordinary month ahead, filled with boundless opportunities awaiting each of you. Let’s seize them with enthusiasm and anticipation!

Kierra Brooks

Leah Bischoff - Transition Concierge Specialist

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our “Workforce Development Marketing and Attraction Campaign!”

Sheboygan County faces a critical labor shortage, which impacts its present and future growth. Through targeted efforts, we aim to connect candidates with HR departments for hiring opportunities.

Recognizing the situation’s urgency, our campaign is strategically designed to connect potential candidates with a network of local businesses. We’re targeting individuals at pivotal points in their lives, making relocation a feasible option. We aim to showcase the abundant opportunities and amenities that Sheboygan County offers.

Key Features of the Program:

• Relocation Assistance: Eligible candidates receive relocation reimbursement and temporary housing based on availability and necessity.

• Streamlined Recruitment: Daily auto-piloted recruiting connects you with industryspecific candidates.

• Accessibility: The campaign is designed for easy application and participation.

Next Steps:

1. Opt-in: Register for the program with this link or through our Chamber website before March 29th.

2. Receive Candidates: Get connected with industry-specific candidates.

3. Interview and Hire: Connect with potential candidates and hire quickly.

Join us in revitalizing our workforce and building a stronger community together.

Interested in learning more? Please reach out to leah@sheboygan.org.

Leah Bischoff

Josh Aschenbach - Director Of Membership & Workforce Development

One of the most common topics I discuss with Chamber members is marketing, particularly with small or new business owners and leaders. Let’s face it: marketing is tough…and expensive. There are seemingly endless ways to go about it, but there is only so much time, and more importantly, there is only so much money. Most small and new businesses simply don’t have the time, resources, skills or budget to invest in major marketing campaigns.

Now, let me be perfectly clear about something: The Sheboygan County Chamber is not a marketing agency, and we can’t provide the type of comprehensive, professional advice that you can get from our marketing Chamber members. If that’s what you’re looking for, I encourage you to reach out to our many incredible businesses who specialize in strategy, content and design. You can check out our marketing business directory here.

However, if you’re new to the Chamber or maybe just need a reminder, we do offer affordable, uncomplicated advertising opportunities that are sure to give you the return on investment that you are looking for. As a Chamber member, you can leverage the Chamber network to increase your exposure, generate new leads and grow your business. Here are a couple marketing opportunities available to all Chamber members:

• Member2Member (M2M): Every Thursday, we send out a marketing email to over 3,000 Chamber members featuring advertisements from within our membership. This is a great, lowcost opportunity to take advantage of when you’re looking to dip your toe into advertising. This opportunity starts at $75/week, with steep discounts applied to multi-week packages. Nonprofits can take advantage of our Member2Member emails for a flat rate of $35/week. CLICK HERE to download the M2M advertising agreement and start advertising today!

• Community Guide: Annually, the Chamber publishes a 50+ page Community Guide containing information on events, businesses, attractions and local leaders. We distribute over 15,000 copies of this beautiful publication throughout Sheboygan County in retail spaces, hotels, Airbnb’s, restaurants, businesses, civic centers and more. Advertising in this magazine allows your business to get into spaces that you wouldn’t be able to otherwise. CLICK HERE to download the Community Guide advertising agreement and learn more about size and pricing.

• Sponsorships: Throughout the year, the Chamber hosts numerous events, programs and initiatives attended by thousands in our community. Gain exposure by sponsoring these events or programs for as little as $150. Sponsorships are a great way to attach your business name to the Chamber’s many successful offerings. CLICK HERE to view our complete sponsorship opportunity guide for 2024.

Josh Aschenbach

If you’re interested in our paid marketing opportunities or want to discuss leveraging your membership for free exposure, feel free to reach out. I’m here to serve you and would be happy to help you maximize your Chamber membership.

Looking forward to working together!

Josh Aschenbach

Director of Membership and Workforce Development

Kristin Bahr - BID Member Services Director

Hello and Welcome to Spring!

With the arrival of spring just around the corner, we’re excited to announce the launch of our Spring Promotion here at the Harbor Centre BID. Introducing the “Spring Into the BID Shopping Spree Promotion,” running from April 1st to April 30th, 2024.

How it Works:

• Simply make a purchase at any business in the Harbor Centre Business Improvement District area.

• Forward your proof of purchase to the Harbor Centre BID office by May 15, 2024 to qualify for entry into the shopping spree prize drawing.

• Each proof of purchase submitted equals one entry into the drawing.

• The drawing will be held Friday, May 17, 2024.

Prizes:

We kindly request gift cards or product donations valued at a minimum of $25 from each participating business to be included as prizes.

A grand prize of a $250.00 shopping spree will be awarded. (The grand prize will be awarded in the form of gift cards from BID businesses. Gift cards will be of the winners’ choosing.)

Questions about the Spring Into the BID Shopping Spree Promotion can be sent to kristin@harborcentre.com.

Kristin Bahr

John Rogers - Business Roundtables

Facilitator

PICTURES ARE WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS...

However, testimonials are valued even more! For example, soon after the Business Owner Roundtable on February 14 ended, I received this unsolicited testimonial from Rick Grant. All testimonials are appreciated and each one reinforces the value the writers have about their roundtable experiences regardless of which of the eight versions they attend. Here is what Rick wrote [sincere appreciation to Rick!]:

“Chamber of Commerce Roundtables Are Time Well Spent

Earlier this month, I had the privilege of attending a business roundtable organized by the Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce, and I’m eager to share my experience with fellow business owners considering participating in future events.

From the moment I arrived, it was clear that this event was well organized to foster an environment of collaboration and learning. The setting was professional yet welcoming, allowing for easy conversations among attendees. The facilitator kept the group on track and solving problems.

That was a major takeaway for me. We were working together to help each other make decisions that would lead us to solutions to our individual problems.

I have been to many similar meetings over the years, and they were all disappointing, for one reason or another. Most fell short because attendees spent their time together complaining about their circumstances or telling each other what they should do. The lively discussion focused on challenges, allowing each executive in the room to provide ideas that they can take or leave as they see fit. Each speaker brought a unique perspective, providing insights that were both thought-provoking and highly relevant to my business, even though they all came from different industries.

One of the highlights for me was the networking opportunity. The roundtable attracted a diverse group of business owners from various sectors, allowing for the exchange of ideas and the building of new relationships. It was refreshing to connect with peers who are equally passionate about their businesses and the positive impact they aim to create in the community.

When it was over, the meeting notes were sent to all participants, making it easier to participate during the event and recall great ideas afterward. He also included contact information for attendees so we could all stay in touch.

John Rogers

Attending the Chamber of Commerce business roundtable was a very rewarding experience. Not only did I gain practical insights and strategies to apply to my business, but I also left feeling more connected to the local business community. I wholeheartedly recommend these roundtables to any business owner looking to grow and thrive.”

Rick Grant, Owner

rick.grant@rga-pr.com

linkedin.com/in/rickgrant

Be sure you read The Buzz every Monday to know about upcoming roundtables or if you have any questions, please email them to john@sheboygan.org

Liz Miyashiro - Director Of Finance & Operations

Hello! I’m Liz Miyashiro, the new Director of Finance and Operations at the Chamber. My expertise lies in helping small teams achieve big things by creating sound and scalable infrastructure and systems. After spending over a decade learning the ropes of finance and operations at both not-for-profit and small businesses on the East Coast, I have relocated back to my home of Wisconsin. I fell in love with the vibrant business community in Sheboygan and jumped at the opportunity to work at the Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce. In my leisure time, I like to spend time with my husband, daughters and pup exploring, hitting estate sales and working on various crafting and *upcycling* projects for my home.

Liz Miyashiro

Ambassador of the Year: Presented by Kohler Co. Laura Gumm

Nonprofit Charity of the Year: Presented by Lakeshore Community Health Care

Sheboygan County Food Bank

MVP of the Team: Presented by KEES, Inc.

Eileen Robarge - Wisconsin Lakefront Property Management, LLC

Manufacturer of the Year: Presented by 3 Sheeps Brewing Co. Masters Gallery Foods

CONGRATULATIONS

2024 Chamber

Champions Gala Award Winners

Pay it Forward: Presented by Van Horn Automotive Group

The Bay-Lakes Council, BSA

Culinary Star of the Year: Presented by Lakeshore Technical College Sunday Dough

Retailer of the Year: Presented by Wisconsin Bank & Trust

Sheboygan Discount Warehouse

Working Together Award: Presented by Prevea Health Bridging Cultures Through Workplace Literacy

Safety Leader of the Year: Presented by Georgia-Pacific Pine Haven Christian Communities

Professional Service Organization of the Year: Presented by Midwest Communications Partners for Community Development

Tourism Gem of the Year: Presented by Kelmann Restoration

City of Sheboygan - Mercury Racing Midwest Challenge

February 6th

February 15th

February 28th

February In Review

February 13th

February 20th

February 14th

February 22nd

Coastal YP’s: Speed Networking

Out to Dinner with Coastal YP’s: Legend Larry’s

Leadership Sheboygan County: Criminal Justice Day

Junior Leadership Sheboygan County: Criminal Justice Day

Ribbon Cutting: Longhouse Axe BarLower Level

Chamber Champions Gala 2024

Out to Breakfast with Deidre Martinez: Shuffs

Newsletter sponsorship opportunities now available! Please contact Deidre Martinez at 920.457.9491 or deidre@sheboygan.org for more information.