Active Voice - Microsoft...presentation which allows business owners and their employees the...

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www.portagecountybiz.com the Active Voice Women In Business Fashion Show YOU WANT ME TO DO WHAT? let’s get back to reality Do you like shark tank?

Transcript of Active Voice - Microsoft...presentation which allows business owners and their employees the...

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www.portagecountybiz.com

the Active Voice

Women In Business Fashion Show

YOU WANTME TODO WHAT?

let’s get back to reality

Do you like shark tank?

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Portage CountyBusiness Council, Inc.

5501 Vern Holmes DriveStevens Point, WI 54482715-344-1940 www.portagecountybiz.com

Todd KuckkahnExecutive [email protected]

Karen SchanockDirector of Programs & [email protected]

Kayla Rombalski Director of Talent [email protected]

Mereta WalkerDirector of Operations [email protected]

Tonya KowalskiDirector of Business [email protected]

Angel Whitehead Marketing Communications [email protected]

Portage County Business Council

@PoCoBiz

Portage County Business Council

MEMBER

contact us

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4 You want me to do what?Technology has done so much for our society, right! I mean, while we are on vacation we can stay up-to-date on everything happening at work, in government, around the world, and with our neighbors (if we even know them)

6 women in business fashion showTreat yourself and see the unique selection of clothing, accessories and one-of-a-kind pieces by Girls in Pearls Boutique. We will see what is chic on the streets and trends to watch for this season at this event.

9 thank you We want to give a big thank you to our Tiered Members so far in 2017!

12 Take me out to the ball gameIgnite was very busy this last month! Ignite held their first EVER New Member Orientation and had a Backstage Pass to Velocity Clubhouse.

14 A S P I R U S - O N E O F T H E G R E AT E S T I N A M E R I C A Aspirus Wausau Hospital is one of the “100 Great Hospitals in America” for 2017 according to Becker’s Hospital Review’s annual ranking.

16 leadership portage countyIn March, Leadership Portage County participants had a robust day learning about energy and utilities.

17 Reality SHopPartners In Education hosted a Reality Shop yesterday at SPASH. The Reality Shop is a budgeting exercise for students, giving them a taste of what life after high school might feel like.

18 The pitchers have been chosenCongrats to Monte Condrack, who has been selected to pitch Destinations 180 at the inaugural (free!) HATCH event in Stevens Point! Destinations 180 is a social entrepreneurship business that develops moderate to high-end tiny houses for people in need.

C O N T E N T S DIGITAL MAGAZINE

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Then there is the “there’s nothing

to do segment” of people. From the people I talk with, it is nearly impossible to find nothing to do in our community.

Technology has done so much for our society, right! I mean, while we are on vacation we can stay up-to-date on everything happening at work, in government, around the world, and with our neighbors (if we even know them). And that’s where the problem lies. People are face first in their technology and ignoring the opportunity to solve problems and make opportunity in a more meaningful, face-to-face encounter.

Let me bore you with some “old man” recollections. When I was your age (remember that line from your parents), I would go down to the church field and play two-hand touch football with all of my neighborhood buddies. In the winter, it was our outdoor hockey rink, yes outdoors! Now what in the world does that have to do with face-to-face business?!?!

During our games we had to figure things out face-to-face. Did Larry

touch the tip of the branch that marked the sideline out of bounds or not? After some time, we figured it out and moved on. Two key points there. We negotiated, collaborated, partnered to figure it out with an agreeable solution and our leadership developed in that situation. And, we moved on without continual analysis paralysis about a truly meaningless event during our game. We had to come up with the boundaries, rules, and timeframe and we had to solve the challenges face-to-face. No texting. No bullying. No hiding behind our technology and not addressing it face-to-face.

Hopefully in your business you realize the importance of engagement in your success. Those face-to-face encounters are critical to your success with your customers and employees. We realize and respect that, too. Then there is the “there’s nothing to do segment” of people. From the people I talk with, it is nearly impossible to find nothing to do in our community.

Granted, face-to-face encounters are not always the easiest. Hopefully, for example, you are taking advantage of our Business After Hours (BAH) events, held monthly on the third Monday. Oh, wait, you don’t know anyone there. Well then go and meet someone. Stretch out your hand and say hello. Maybe ask, “What do you

do when you aren’t at BAH?” We have countless other opportunities, as well.

Terry Bean recently shared an article on LinkedIn that was originally published on June 12, 2014, called “10 Rules for Sucking Less at Networking”. His thoughts included putting your phone away and paying attention to the people, ask people for their cards if you want them, make it a goal to meet 2-3 new people, introduce those you know to others, talk less-listen more, tell people why you do it not what you do, and follow up to get to know them. Some of these also relate to the workplace, depending on the

size, and with customers who might walk in the door, depending on your business.

Craig Culver told us at our economic development summit that employees are the most important part of your business. Engage in face-to-face conversations and learn how to improve your business and customer relations. Technology has its place and use it when appropriate however you can gain so much more when interacting.

By the way, Larry was out-of-bounds and we still won the game.

photo credit: https://medicine.llu.edu/current-students/technology

YOU WANT ME TO DO WHAT? TODD KUCKKAHN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

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It’s Time for Some

Business on the Green

The Ambassadors Club of the Portage County Business Council will be holding their 28th annual golf outing, Business on the Green, on Monday, June 5, 2017 at two highly rated Wisconsin courses—Stevens Point Country Club and the SentryWorld Golf Course.

With over 280 golfers participating and additional business representatives attending the 19th Hole Networking Event (after golf), the 2017 event will be a great environment to expand your contacts.

You have a great opportunity to be further involved in the event by taking advantage of a

sponsorship! Don’t miss out! First-Come,First-Serve!

JUNE 5TH

Sponsorship Opportunities AVAILABLE

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FASHION SHOW& LUNCHEON

Presented By:

Thursday, April 20, 201711:15AM to 1:00PMHoliday Inn Hotel & Convention Center,1001 Amber Avenue, Stevens Point, WITreat yourself and see the unique selection of clothing, accessories and one-of-a-kind pieces by Girls in Pearls Boutique. We will see what is chic on the streets and trends to watch for this season. Guests will be treated to a fabulous display of casual wear to classy wear. Fashions from both famous designers and retailers, including Karen Kane designs, Joseph Ribkoff, Clara Sunwoo and Tribal to name a few, will be presented in this fast-paced, music filled, live runway show.

To add to the fun, door prizes will be continuously handed out during the show including six Spartina 449 Linen & Leather Handbags, Totes and Wallets compliments of Girls in Pearls Boutique.

Music will be provided by BobbieJoy Amann of Jock-in-a-Box Entertainment Service.

NEW TO THE SHOW: “Cash & Carry” Show Specials including fun scarves for only $10 and beautiful ponchos, normally sold for $36 - day of show price will be only $22!

Those in attendance will also have the opportunity to purchase accessories before and after the event including fashion handbags, jewelry and unique gift items. A 50/50 raffle will also take place. Mastercard, Visa, Discover, Cash and Checks will be accepted. Don’t miss the fun!

ITINERARY11:15AM Registration and Network Development11:30AM Welcome11:45AM Lunch (Consisting of Chicken Antipasto Salad: Spring Greens and Romaine Tossed with Cheddar, Provolone, Tomatoes, Red Peppers, Genoa Salami. A Grilled Chicken Breast and Cherry Peppers on the side with Antipasto Dressing and Breadsticks, Coffee, Tea, Milk and delicious Tiramisu for Dessert)Vegetarian or Gluten Free Option available upon request12:15AM Fashion Show 1:00PM Closing

Click Here for online registration. You can also call the Business Council office at 715-344-1940. For questions contact Karen Schanock at [email protected].

COST: $26/person for members $31/person for prospective-members

Mark your calendars for these other Women in Business Events:

• Thursday, June 22, 2017, Presented by Wisconsin Public Service• Thursday, September 21, 2017, Presented by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection • Thursday, December 14, 2017, Presented by CoVantage Credit Union

Media Sponsor Music Sponsor

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won’t get much done.

Mr. Mike Piercecomes to Stevens Point

4.12.17 \\ 7:30AM - 8:30AMPCBC FOUNDATION ROOM NO COST TO ATTEND. CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST IS INCLUDED.What is the Business X-Change? A roundtable presentation which allows business owners and their employees the opportunity to discuss pertinent topics, learn from local industry leaders and, most importantly, learn from each other. While there is no cost to attend, the value of the information may be priceless.

TOPIC: “IT’S TIME TO ACHIEVE MORE BY BECOMING A LIFELONG LEARNER” About the Program: Leave this X-Change with tangible ideas and goals, making a commitment to your personal and professional growth. Learn how to create and embrace a lifelong learning culture in your organization.

Key Points of Program:-Identify what’s important and where you should focus your energy through a life assessment.-Tips for becoming a lifelong learner.-Learn how to create and embrace a lifelong learning culture in your organization.-Create a plan.

About our Presenters: Jodi Carlson was recently hired as the MBA Recruitment Manager at UW Oshkosh. Before joining the MBA Office, she held various positions over the past 13 years in the Career Services department. Jodi earned her Master of Counseling Education

from UW Oshkosh and her Bachelor of Organizational Communication from UW Green Bay. She also designed and taught a Professional Skills in Business course for the UW Oshkosh College of Business.

Tera Larson earned her Bachelor of Business Administration from UW Oshkosh and her Master of Business Administration from the UW Consortium. Tera worked as the Marketing Communications Manager at Carbon County Higher Education

Center in Wyoming for seven years before becoming the Associate Director of Marketing and Events for the MBA Program at UW Oshkosh. She also taught an Introduction to Business course through Western Wyoming Community College.

REGISTER

Special THANK YOU to UW Oshkosh MBA Program, Inc. for its sponsorship of this

program.

For questions on this X-Change please contact Karen Schanock at 715-344-1940 or

[email protected].

Over 160 people came out to hear professional speaker, author, sales trainer and adventure athlete “Antarctic Mike” Pierce at our Breakfast Conference sponsored by TEC (The Executive Committee of Midwest) and the Portage County Business Council. Mike’s speech, entitled “Leading at 90° Below Zero: Keeping Great Employees Focused, Fired Up and Engaged” brought a TON of enthusiasm to the room. Special thanks to Mike Pierce, to all of our attendees, and to the team at TEC Midwest for helping to make this event a success!

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Ambassadors Show Their Support

Members of our Ambassadors Club and PCBC staff took part in the ribbon cutting ceremony on March 14th to celebrate the grand opening of Waterstone Mortgage, located at 5569 US Hwy 10E, Suite 2 Stevens Point.

Members of our Ambassadors Club celebrated the opening of the new Cellcom store, 152 Crossroads Drive, Plover with a ribbon cutting ceremony on March 23rd.

To help celebrate the new office move for Rural Mutual Insurance Company, members of our Ambassadors Club and PCBC staff took part in a ribbon cutting ceremony on March 24th. Their new office is located at 2581 Post Road in Plover.

Business Hours after

Hosted By:

AIG (hosted by Women & Allies Employee Resource Group and Young Professionals Employee Resource Group)

Event will take place in the World Café, 1st Floor3300 Business Park DriveStevens Point, WI 54482(Located in the Portage County Business Park off of County HH)

5:00PM to 7:00PMNo Cost to Attend

Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, refreshments (including beer and wine), door prize giveaways, tours of the facility 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 [email protected] to book the month you are interested in.

RSVP by Friday, April 14, 2017.

Click Here to register online.

Click Here for map.

MONDAY, APRIL 17TH - 5:00PM TO 7:00PM

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Thank You!Thank You and Congratulations to all of our Tiered Members! If you want more information or would like to learn about the increased value of our new tiered membership structure, contact Tonya Kowalski at 715-344-1940 or [email protected] today!

ASPIREMinistry Saint Michael’s Hospital - AscensionSentry InsuranceBMO Harris BankAssociated Bank

ENGAGEAnderson O’BrienDelta Dental of WisconsinEllis ConstructionMcCain FoodsThe Pineries BankThe Worth Company

COLLABORATERural Mutual Insurance - Post RoadStevens Point Area YMCAChase BankFirst Weber, Inc.Recycled Office EnvironmentsLands’ EndRural Mutual InsuranceAtrium Senior Living of Stevens Point at River View Lodge Ministry Home Care, LLCSegmented Systems MFGResource One Installation & ServicesGreat Lakes Educational Loan Services, Inc.Stratford Sign Sales

GROWOld National BankDel Monte Foods Inc.Opportunity Development Centers, Inc.Spectrum BusinessTeam Schierl CompaniesGamber-Johnson LLCRockman’s CateringProvident NutraceuticalOld National Bank-Plover

GROW continued

BioLife Plasma ServicesCountry Inn & SuitesABR Employment ServicesRiver Cities BankOpportunity Development Centers, Inc.- Wis-consin RapidsThe Business NewsAmeriprise Financial Services, Inc. Michael Smith & AssociatesOffice Enterprises IncKi MobilityALL WOMEN EXPOCornerstone TechnologyThe Murphy Insurance Group, LLCSecure Heritage Insurance AgencyWells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, Member SIPC Spectrum Insurance GroupOwens Family Dentistry LLCSteel Shield LLCHeritage Farm EstatesWhiting Avenue EstatesHausmann Johnson InsuranceCrockett Septic, LLCPoint After Pub & GrillWaterstone Mortgage

BUILDPortage County Buyers Guide / Stevens Point City TimesChecks Muffler CenterContemporary PhotographyCooper Oil Company IncGuzman Case CorporationNorthwestern Mutual Thomas W Stout CPA SCWisconsin Interscholastic Athletic AssociationBuzza Dreier & Johnson LLCDesigners 2Wisconsin River Golf ClubSoik Sales IncUnitel Inc

BUILD continued

Gilchrist Dental CareFalk Cabinet Systems IncSpringville Family DentistryAIGK-tech Kleening SystemsBrookdale Stevens PointDave’s Tap CleaningPioneer BankAbility Builders IncFlex-StaffPoint Title LLCBob’s Plumbing & Heating of Central WI IncBatteries PlusStifel, Nicolaus & CompanyPrism Real EstateManpowerRegnier Consulting Group IncTMA + PeritusHeritage Investment Company LLPAdventure 212 LLCCellcomBayland Buildings IncFire Pro IncPhysicians Mutual The WindsorAmherst Marine, Inc.Matsu Ya Sushi - GrillBuffalo Wild WingsPaychex, Inc.Girls in Pearls Boutique, LLCFlexible Nutrition Solutions LLCDuralum Carpets Inc. KPR BrokersOntogeny Advertising & Design, LLCBone & Joint Clinic, S.C.AgrometricsForward Financial BankSYNERGY HomeCareImpact DirectoriesMission Coffee House LLCVelocity Clubhouse, LLCLakeland Real Estate LLC

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We celebrated successes in Portage County at the March 13th American Agriculture Appreciation Banquet held at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center. Many thanks to our Patron Sponsors of the event.

Several individuals were recognized for their outstanding contributions to agriculture.

The Biadasz Family was awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture Award for their outstanding commitment to the

progress and success of the agri-business industry, and for their significant contributions to the agri-business community in

promoting farm safety.

The Agri-Business Scholarship Recipients were: Brittney

Falkavage-Stevens Point Area Senior High School, and

McKenzie Glodowski-Rosholt High School.

Outstanding FFA Senior Awards went to: Brandon Konkol-

Amherst High School; Mallory Rekowski-Rosholt High School; and Brittney Falkavage-Stevens Point Area Senior High School.

Our Master of Ceremonies Ken Schroeder, Portage County Agriculture Agent, introduced our  keynote speaker, Ms. Breanna Bays, President of the Wisconsin FFA Association.  Her presentation was entitled “Vision – How We Achieve Success”.

The American Agriculture Banquet is an annual event that celebrates Portage County individuals for their personal and

professional contributions to agriculture in Portage County. 

The 4-H Leadership in Agriculture Awards were presented to: Bailey Adams and McKenzie Glodowski.

What happens at the Ag Banquet, stays at

the Ag Banquet!

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Sara and Melissa’s message for the event is “Tourism is Economic Development”.

This year’s event captures the entrepreneurial spirit of successful business across Portage County.  To honor the success of Portage County business members, the Business Council

invites you to attend the May 5th Creative Excellence Awards Breakfast (formerly called the Small Business Breakfast) from 7:15-9:00AM.  The event will be held at SentryWorld Grand Hall,

601 N Michigan Avenue, Stevens Point, WI.

Click Here to register online

You can also call the Business Council office at 715-344-1940.

Cost: $23/person for PCBC Members, $27/person for Prospective PCBC Members

Cost includes breakfast (Vegetarian or Gluten Free Options available upon request)

The Business Council wishes to thank our sponsors of the event (at time of print):

Also, special thanks to our Media Sponsor of the event:

Creative Excellence Awards Breakfast

May 5th FORMERLY THE SMALL BUSINESS BREAKFAST

Friday, May 5th marks our annual celebration of business success across Portage County.  

Join in the excitement as we recognize the achievements of the recipients of the Entrepreneur of the Year – Sunset Point Winery; and the Portage County Charitable Community Award to be presented to Aging &

Disability Resource Center of Portage County (ADRC).

Our guest speakers for the event will be Sara Brish and Melissa Sabel from the Stevens Point Area Convention and Visitors

Bureau and our Master of Ceremonies will be General Manager of NRG Media - Mr. Kurt Luchs.

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Member Spotlight: Adam SmithOccupation: Process Engineer at POWER Engineers

What is something you hope to accomplish in the next year?

I would like to buy a house. Probably a semi fixer upper to take up some of my free time. Apartment living isn’t really for me.

Why did you get involved with Ignite?

I got involved as soon as I moved to the area. I knew it was important for me to meet people and start getting involved right away. I was nervous beingI don’t have a lot of friends in the area but I’m so glad I did. I’ve been ableto meet some great people and learn a lot about my new community.

Click Here for the full interview!

YPWeek Kickoff EventSomething’s Brewing in

Rosholt - Backstage Passto McZ’s Brew Pub 4/21

5:30 - 7:30 PMJoin Ignite at McZ’s Brew Pub for an informal evening to kick off our week long celebration of YPs in Portage County. You’ll have the opportunity to network, share

ideas and visit with other Ignite members. Not a member, join us to see what Ignite is about!

Get a behind the scenes tour and talk from Kate Zdroik, owner of McZ’s and The Nest art gallery.

Ignite had its first New Member

Orientation

We had a BALL at

Velocity Clubhouse!

SAVE THE DATEAPRIL 22- 28

NOT A MEMBER?JOIN IGNITE

TODAY!

See our full events lineup for YPWeek!

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WANT TO BE SURE YOU ARE GETTING THE BEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK?

SCHEDULE A MEMBERHSIP REVIEW MEETING TODAY!

“It was great meeting with Tonya and going over all of the benefits of being a member of PCBC. I was surprised on everything this council has to offer. The meeting really sparked ideas on how I can get my agency better connected to the Portage County business community! Thank you!” ~ Zoe Nylund, Midstate Independent Living Consultants, Inc

"As a new member, I sought some wisdom and counsel on how to maximize my investment with PCBC. I realized missed opportunities and capitalized on them right away. There are so many things at my fingertips and am grateful for the information. I believe everyone would benefit from a quick refresher as to all the benefits that are so quickly and readily available." ~ Russel Ehlinger, Mission Coffee House LLC

PCBC wants to make sure you are utilizing ALL of your membership benefits! A one-to-one membership review meeting will help make certain you are getting the MOST out of your membership. Here’s what some others have said after their member review: “I really learned a lot, in a short amount of time, and am really impressed with what your organization offers the greater Stevens Point/Plover areas.” ~ Amie Gruetzmacher, Mid-State Truck Service Inc. “I really appreciated your thoughtfulness as we discussed our specific needs and goals for growing our business! I was surprised to learn about so many opportunities available through the PCBC that our company wasn’t previously taking advantage of.” ~ Holly Hurda, Heartland Hospice “It was a great first step in acclimating myself to the communities business leaders and I look forward to building a relationship with the PCBC.” ~ Carl Dodge, Bauernfeind Business Technologies

To schedule your meeting, contact:

TONYA KOWALSKI 715-344-1940 [email protected]

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S T U D E N T S E X P L O R E C A R E E R O P T I O N S

Mid-State Technical College gave 282 students from area high schools a chance to explore various careers with CareerView events across its campuses in Marshfield, Stevens Point, and Wisconsin Rapids, March 3–17. Students selected four different program areas to explore and participated in facility tours and interaction with instructors and current students. Attendees also learned about the steps needed for college admissions.

Twenty Mid-State programs were featured from Mid-State’s offerings across the service, health, technology, business, technical and industrial disciplines. Hands-on activities included everything from preparing tax returns in Accounting, to working with high-fidelity mannequins used in the Nursing program, to learning proper rope-tying techniques and plant identification in the Urban Forestry Technician program. A student life workshop also factored heavily in the event’s success, with one student commenting that this part was best because it gave “a really good idea of what college life will be like.”

“CareerView is a chance to familiarize prospective students with Mid-State, its programs and the many benefits of a technical college education,” noted Jackie Esselman, Mid-State’s high school outreach coordinator, adding, “We’re proud to say that CareerView also aligns with the Department of Public Instructor ’s Academic and Career Planning (ACP) initiative, which helps students create and cultivate their own unique and information-based visions for post-secondary success.”

The benefits of CareerView and other ACP events go beyond seeing real-world career options that interest the student. Participating students also experience increased family engagement and relationship building, increased engagement in what they’re currently learning in high school, and stronger intentions to complete high school and attend a postsecondary institution or training, according to the Wisconsin DPI website.

For more information about the many in-demand, hands-on programs offered at Mid-State, visit mstc.edu/programs.

Investors Community Bank welcomes two new employees in

Stevens Point

JoAnn Rutta has been named Assistant Vice President – Banking Services Manager responsible for performing, planning, organizing and controlling all day-to-day operational activities of the Stevens Point banking center. As a primary relationship builder and community advocate within the Stevens Point market, Rutta provides a high level of customer relations and service, ensuring compliance with bank policies and procedures. She brings nine years of banking experience and 25 years of retail management experience. Rutta serves as an Ambassador with the Portage County Business Council. She resides in the town of Bevent.

Luann Avery is the bank’s new Customer Service Associate responsible for assisting with routine account services and responding to customer inquiries. She brings eight years of banking experience as well as 13 years of experience working in the public library system. She is also secretary for the Angie Sheldon Scholarship Committee and involved with the Friends of Lone Stone Lake Association. She and her family reside in the Bancroft area.

F o r d e t a i l s v i s i t w w w.InvestorsCommunityBank.com

Keller Hires Vorpagel and Doubeck as Concrete Laborers

KELLER, Inc., a Design/Build General Contractor with offices in the Fox Cities, Madison, Milwaukee and Wausau announces the hiring of Earl Vorpagel and Rob Doubeck as Concrete Craftsmen.

As a Concrete Craftsmen they are responsible for preparing the site, setting concrete forms and finishing concrete flatwork.

http://www.kellerbuilds.com/

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S.C. Swiderski Land Company Announces New Real

Estate Brokers

S.C. Swiderski, LLC, a construction and real estate investment company, welcomes Scott Wessel and Bruce Johnson as the new managing brokers for S.C. Swiderski Land Company. The Land Company is part of the Real Estate Division of S.C. Swiderski and handles land acquisitions, development and sales of waterfront, acreage and hunting property.

Scott Wessel has twenty three years of experience with land management and forestry. He has been a licensed Realtor in Wisconsin since 2010 and operated as the owner/broker of Wisconsin Real Estate Company. In addition to his real estate background, Scott brings expertise in soils, timber valuations and land management.

Bruce Johnson has twenty two years of sales experience; he has been a licensed Realtor in Wisconsin since 2002. He previously was a top agent for Naterra Land with a consistent track record of recreational land sales and land development. He has waterfront expertise and splits his time between living on the Wisconsin River and the Eagle River Chain of Lakes.

In addition to acquisitions, development and sales, Scott and Bruce will manage the operations of the Land Company and oversee real estate agents. Jacqui Miller, Real Estate and Marketing Manager at S.C. Swiderski says “I am happy to have Scott and Bruce join the company. They bring a level of experience and expertise that is critical as we expand this area of our company. Together they will provide a solid management and drive the success of S.C. Swiderski Land Company.”

For more information visit https://www.scswiderski.com/

Aspirus Wausau Hospital is one of the “100 Great Hospitals in America” for 2017 according to Becker’s Hospital Review’s annual ranking.

This is the third straight year Aspirus Wausau Hospital has made Becker’s annual list, which was released on April 3. Aspirus Wausau Hospital is one of three Wisconsin hospitals on Becker’s list; the others are UW Health-University Hospital in Madison and Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee.

“Earning a spot on Becker’s ‘100 Great Hospitals in America’ list affirms our continued objective of providing high quality and safe health care for residents of the communities we serve,” said Aspirus Wausau Hospital President, Darrell Lentz. “We are truly honored to receive this recognition from Becker’s Hospital Review for the third year in a row.”

According to Becker’s, the hospitals included on the “100 Great Hospitals in America” list are renowned for

excellence and are industry leaders in innovation, quality patient care and clinical research, and have received recognition across various publications and accrediting organizations.

Aspirus Wausau Hospital was selected by Becker ’s Hospital Review’s editorial team for inclusion based on analysis of several ranking and award agencies, including U.S. News and World Report’s 2016-17 Honor Roll and specialty rankings, CMS star ratings, Leapfrog grades, Truven Health Analytics top

hospitals, Most Wired hospitals and Magnet accreditation.

Becker ’s Hospital Review has published a version of this list since 2012. A full list of the “100 Great Hospitals in America” can be found online at beckershospitalreview.com

A S P I R U S H O S P I TA L N A M E D A M O N G “ 1 0 0 G R E AT H O S P I TA L S I N A M E R I C A”

NEWSROOM

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In March, Leadership Portage County participants had a robust day learn-ing about energy and utilities in the County. We started the day at Wisconsin Public Service in Plover. Wendy Mitch continued her leadership series on Mindset. We then learned about utility infrastructure from Kelly Zagrzebski and Gary Oudenhaven of Wisconsin Public Service. They gave us information on the utility and how

WPS operates. Jen McNelly, Water Resource Specialist at Portage County Planning & Zoning, then gave us an overview of groundwater, allowing us to see both sides of this, often debated, issues. We spent our after-noon at the Midwest Renewable Energy Association. Executive Director Nick Hylla taught us about renewable energy and gave an introduction the MREA, followed by a grounds tour

from Leon Dulak. Arriving back from the tour gave us a chance to talk with Gary Speckmann, Portage County Parks Director. We ended the day with participant speeches from Amy, Becca, and Britney. Overall another great session in the books. We are looking forward to the April and May sessions – only two left!

L E A D E R S H I P P O R TA G E C O U N T Y TALENT DEVELOPMENT

“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

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

CULTIVATING LEADERS FOR A CONNECTED COMMUNITY

full details here!

Save the date and make a plan to join us for Leadership Portage Coun-ty graduation! To be held Thursday, May 18,2017 4:00-6:00 PM at Lions

Camp in Rosholt, WI.

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Partners In Education hosted a Reality Shop yesterday at SPASH. The Reality Shop is a budgeting exercise for students, giving them a taste of what life after high school might feel like.

Based on a student’s chosen career and educational aspirations they are given an annual salary. They are also randomly assigned a family scenario (married, single, divorced, children, etc), credit card debt, credit score, and student loan debt. Using their net monthly income students walk around the Reality Shop to make purchases and add those line items in their budget.

The event would not be possible without the support of 40 business volunteers who took time out of their day to spend with these students! Special shout out to those volunteers! Thank you for your time!

Also, check it out: Tonya Kowalski, Portage County Business Council Director of Business Engagement “went live” on Facebook during the event. Tonya interviewed a volunteer and a student about the experience.

Partners In Educationhosted a Reality Shop TALENT

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WHEN: APRIL 26, 2017 | 6:00PM – 8:30PM

Where: Historic Firehouse No. 2, 1949 Strongs Avenue,Stevens Point, WI 54481

Cost: Free and open to the public!Who Should Come: Entrepreneurs, creatives, business professionals, organizers, and investors

WHO IS PITCHING:

Mysa | Jeff RiceAn online shared-economy platform that helps business owners understandtheir hurdles and connects them with freelancers who can help.

Permyt | Kyle KonieczkaAutomated municipal permit issuance

Destination 180 | Monte CondrackA social entrepreneurship business that develops moderate to high-end tiny houses for people in need

Leak Siphon Flush Valve | Peter Parker and Landis BrozakA solution to reduce leaky toilets to ZERO!What to expect at Hatch events:

Live music by DJ DublicitComplimentary food from Stevens Point entrepreneurs Chef C’s Munchie MobileComplimentary beer and wineCollection of Wisconsin’s most innovative startup resourcesAccess to an exclusive and unexpected venueNetwork of Wisconsin’s most creative and dynamic individuals---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Future HATCH Events:May 24, 2017: Wisconsin Rapids Pitch EventJune 21, 2017: Wausau Pitch EventJuly 19, 2017: Marshfield Pitch EventNovember 9, 2017: TBD

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No Child’s Wet Behind

United Way Community Diaper Drive

Drop off Diapers Mother’s Day Weekend-May 14 through Father’s Day Weekend-June 18

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 [email protected]

Grant recipient of

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5 Creative Excellence Awards Breakfast (Formally the Small Business Breakfast) 7:15AM, SentryWorld Granh Hall

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

15 Business After Hours, 5:00 PM, Office Direct Interiors

18 SalesNet, 11:45AM, PCBC Office

Purchasing Portage County gift certificates continues to be a successful way to “Buy Local”.

Portage County gift certificates make great gifts. Gift cer-tificates 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.

PORTAGE COUNTY GIFT CERTIFICATES

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

ASK US HOW TOACCESS YOUR LOGIN

ADVERTISE WITH US

www.portagecountybiz.com

Check out member Job postings HERE!

For questions on advertising,please contact Angel at

715-344-1940 [email protected].

May

2 0 1 7 E V E N T S

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

17 Business After Hours, 5:00PM, AIG

20 Women In Business Fashion Show 11:15AM, Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center

22-28 Ignite YPWeek

27 SalesNet, 11:45AM, PCBC Office

April