Chamber Connection July 2023

Chippewa County Tourism Grows 9.5% over 2021

Tourism generated $174 Million in total economic impact in Chippewa County in 2022 helping Wisconsin break an economic impact record.

The 2nd quarter of 2023 drew attention to tourism and to the economic impact it has on Chippewa County and the State of Wisconsin. In May, Governor Tony Evers and Wisconsin Department of Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers took a tour of the Chippewa Valley to celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week.

Last month, the Wisconsin Department of Tourism released 2022 economic impact data showing the tourism industry generated a record-breaking $23.7 billion in total economic impact, up from $22.2 billion set in 2019. Chippewa County played an important role in the record-breaking number contributing $174 million in total economic impact. “We see that the total economic impact report for 2022 totaling $174 million to our local economy is a direct result of visitors to Chippewa County enjoying its natural beauty. It’s a testament to our tourism-related businesses and what they offer to visitors and residents,” said Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce President Allyson Wisniewski.

Evers started his visit at the new Leinenkugel’s Disc Golf Course in Chippewa Falls which was completed after the Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce working in partnership with the Chippewa Falls Parks, Recreation, and Forestry division received a $30,000 tourism grant to create an 18-hole championship course and a 6-hole handicap accessible course to attract new visitors year round. It was also designed for snowshoeing and ski trails in the winter months.

BY THE NUMBERS | CHIPPEWA COUNTY 2022 V. 2021 IN MILLIONS

$174

TOTAL BUSINESS SALES (9.5% INCREASE)

$114.5

DIRECT VISITOR SPENDING (10.2% INCREASE)

GO Chippewa County represents the tourism division of the Chamber and is the official Destination Marketing Organization for Chippewa County. Its goal is to attract leisure travelers, convention groups, sporting events, rallies, and festivals that drive economic impact to our area. If you are planning a wedding, family reunion, service organization conference, sports tournament, or work meeting, we can assist you with: site selection, lodging rates, business referrals, tour planning, welcome bags, and local business coupons. No gathering is too small. Give us a call today at 715-723-0331 and find out how we can assist you.

New Members

Our membership is more than 715 members strong, and we continue to welcome new businesses to our Chamber. In the previous quarter, we added seven new members to our membership base. At the next Chamber event you attend be sure to say hello to these new members:

B.B.G.’S RESTAURANT & CATERING

Pete Mutaranges

1456 Kennedy Rd

Chippewa Falls, WI 54729

715-861-3220

EAU CLAIRE EVENT DISTRICT

Holly Hedrington

5775 20th Ave

Eau Claire, WI 54703

715-839-7500

KELLY SERVICES

Nichole Stevens

2004 Highland Ave, Ste D

Eau Claire, WI 54701

715-843-8001

MARK BROSES

715-271-7501

ON-SITE CHIROPRACTIC

Nadine Bresina

140 W Elm St

Chippewa Falls, WI 54729

715-828-2139

BUILDING STRONGER COMMUNITIES

WHERE PEOPLE MATTER

ORANGE ROOFING LLC

Lindsey Ollanketo

4947 174th St

Chippewa Falls, WI 54729

715-577-5958

VERITAS STEEL LLC

Alison Ebben

2800 Melby Street

Eau Claire, WI 54703

715-835-2800

2023-2024 Leadership Chippewa Falls

Leadership Chippewa Falls offers a way to ensure that the tradition of strong leadership continues in the Chippewa Valley. This program will acquaint participants with a broad understanding of issues and challenges facing our community. Each month participants will spend half a day learning about one sector of life and business in Chippewa Falls. They will have the opportunity to meet key leaders in these areas, discuss the challenges within the community and determine how these challenges might be resolved. Applications are due by Monday, July 31.

Contact mandy@chippewachamber.org for more information or an application!

MEMBER SNAPSHOT

Each quarter, we highlight a few industries our Chamber represents.

Bars & Grills

Ritz on the River

River Jams

SandBar and Grill

Schuetzy’s Tavern

Slim’s Lake Hallie Tavern

The Snout Saloon

The View on Lake Wissota

West Hill Bar and Grill

Wissota High Shores Supper Club

Wissota Lodge & Conference Center

Ground Breaking and Ribbon Cuttings

The Chippewa Falls area is consistently growing with new businesses. Here at the Chippewa Falls Chamber, we are excited to be a part of the celebration for new business members. We recognize new ownership and grand openings with a ribbon cutting ceremony and new builds with a groundbreaking ceremony. This is a unique way for new businesses to get their name out into the community. This quarter, we celebrated six ribbon cutting ceremonies and one ground breaking ceremony throughout the Chippewa Falls area. Congratulations to all!

State Farm - Michelle Moua Insurance Agency Chippewa Falls

Creative Healing Mental Health Center Chippewa Falls

St. Croix Hospice Chippewa Falls

NWSF Agriculture Campus Chippewa Falls

The Yoga Plant Chippewa Falls

First Choice Merchant Services & Wissota Payments Chippewa Falls

Miron Construction Lake Hallie

Hope Village Chippewa Falls

Member to Member News

Our members stay very busy and often have exciting news to share! Here are a few pieces of member news from the past few months highlighting local business growth and accomplishments. If your business has something to share, send your press release to lindsey@chippewachamber.org to be placed in next quarter’s newsletter.

WESTCONSIN CREDIT UNION announced the promotion of Kevin Hall as the new Chief Information Officer (CIO). Hall has worked on the WESTconsin team since May 2021 and has played a pivotal role in overseeing their IT operations.

BENEDICT SALES & SERVICE received the distinction of Proven Business Partner at CVTC’s Annual Gala for their longstanding history of advocating for technical education in our community.

CVTC received a large one-time donation of $500K from The Duck Pond Charitable Remainder Trust to construct a simulation building at CVTC’s Emergency Services Center. This building will serve as training space for police, fire and EMT students, as well as local agencies and professionals to train within a realistic physical structure and the ability to simulate multiple scenarios.

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF THE GREATER CHIPPEWA VALLEY has named Jeff Jaeger as their Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Jeff has consistently been involved in the community that he is a part of and joins the Boys and Girls Clubs with more than 20 years of leadership experience.

CHIPPEWA FALLS YMCA has selected a new Executive Director Carrie Mathwig. Carrie has been with the business since 2013 and has a passion for the YMCA and its mission.

CITIZENS STATE BANK’S holding company purchased Community Financial Bank, and the two institutions merged under the name Citizens State Bank in early May.

HOUSE BLEND LIGHTING AND DESIGN was recognized by Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation for Best Upper Floor Development. Marnie and Mike Keilholz renovated the upper floor of their business to an Airbnb for more people to enjoy the downtown area.

ROYAL CREDIT UNION’S President/CEO

Brandon Riechers has been selected to serve a third term as the Chair of the Wisconsin Credit Union League Board of Directors.

MAD SHANNON’S PHIT SHED’S owner

Shannon Seyforth had a photoshoot done with Mike Howard Photography. Shannon is now in the top 5 to be on the cover of Muscle and Fitness HERS magazine and a chance to win $20,000.

SUMMER CHALLENGE

GO Chippewa County is partnering with the Chippewa Health Improvement Partners (CHIP) for an exciting summer challenge called “GO Find Fun in the Sun: Chippewa Summer Challenge.“ This partnership is working to get more people out and active this summer in Chippewa County. Enter to win prizes!

Find out more by visiting our website gochippewacounty.com or by scanning the QR code!

When it comes to your to-do list, put your future first.

To find out how to get your financial goal on track, contact us for a complimentary review.

Nicholas A Docksey, AAMS® 706 North Bridge Street 715-723-8588

Paul A Murry 16949 County Highway X 715-720-8849

Kelsey R Nicolai 224 N Bridge Street 715-861-1036

Ted Oeffler, AAMS® 2751 Commercial Blvd Ste 2 715-723-2117

Debi Waldusky, AAMS®, CRPC® 345 Frenette Dr Suite 5 715-726-8923

Aaron L Widiker, AAMS® 2029 County Hwy I 715-720-6105

We are excited to welcome two new board members to the Chippewa Falls Chamber Board.

Andrew Daniels

As Miron Construction’s Senior Vice President, Eau Claire Office, Andrew Daniels is responsible for the development, growth, and advancement of sales in the greater Chippewa Valley region, as well as the care of existing client relationships. With more than 17 years of experience in the construction industry, Andrew lived and worked in numerous markets throughout the Midwest before settling in Eau Claire with his family. With a background in project management, he leverages this extensive experience during the planning and preconstruction phases to ensure projects are set up for success.

Andrew holds bachelor’s degrees in business administration and economics from UW–Stevens Point and is also a LEED accredited professional. Andrew has completed Leadership Eau Claire and Leadership Chippewa Falls and is an active member in multiple community and business organizations throughout the greater Chippewa Valley.

Cayci Young

Cayci Young is the administrator of Dove Healthcare – Regional Vent Center in Chippewa Falls where she has worked since 2015. Cayci grew up in the Eau Claire and Chippewa Falls communities. She graduated from UW-Eau Claire in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, and she then earned her national and Wisconsin nursing home administrator licensure.

Cayci has been involved with the Chippewa Falls Chamber of Commerce for several years and completed Leadership Chippewa Falls in 2018. She also collaborates with the Chippewa Falls Area Unified School District and the Chippewa Valley Youth Apprenticeship Steering Committee. Cayci enjoys spending her free time with her husband Noah, 1-year old daughter Emeri (and another baby girl due fall of 2023), and their two dogs at the family cabin on Lake Wissota.

Upcoming Events

Throughout the year, the Chamber hosts a variety of networking and educational events. Members are strongly encouraged to attend these events to maximize your Chamber membership. From building community relationships to learning more about workforce issues, there is something for all.

JULY

12|Chamber

101

This is a free virtual program designed to help members learn about and take advantage of ALL the benefits that come with their chamber membership.

19|Employer Listening Session

Join the Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, United Way, the Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce and Child Care Partnership. See ad

AUGUST

18|Networking@Noon

event sponsor: tds telecommunications

This virtual event is held throughout the year to bring members together for a virtual networking experience. These discussions can go from business struggles and successes to personal experiences.

SEPTEMBER

8|Coffee

& Commerce

event sponsor: westconsin credit union

Join us at Riverfront Park, 12 S. Bridge St., from 8:009:00 AM for this month’s Coffee and Commerce. Begin your morning with a delicious cup of coffee and networking with other members of our Chamber community.

15-16|Oktoberfest

You haven’t known fun until you attend this year’s Oktoberfest celebration. Two days packed with games, music, beverages and more - you won’t want to miss out! Buy your tickets today!

25|Business After Hours

event sponsor: mason companies, inc.

Enjoy an evening of networking, beverages, and appetizers at Mason Companies Shoe and Outlet Center, 301 N. Bridge St., from 4:30-6:00 PM. This is such a great time to meet up and connect with other business people in the community.

The mission of the Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce is to improve the quality of life in our community by providing leadership to coordinate, support and promote the business interest of our members.

Executive Committee

Chair

Scott Smith, Nordson EDI, LLC

Chair-Elect

Courtney Berg, CCF Bank

First Vice Chair

Dave Lemanski, Chippewa River Industries

Treasurers

Jamie Leibrandt, Northwestern Bank

Michael Stoffel, Ayres Associates

Immediate Past Chair

Amy Forcier-Pabst, Royal Credit Union

CHAMBER STAFF

Allyson Wisniewski

President

Michelle Farrow

Membership Coordinator

Board of Directors

Andrew Daniels

Miron Construction Co., Inc.

Greg Field

W.S. Darley & Co.

Jason Forman

Blain’s Farm & Fleet

David Goldbach

Alliance Plastics Corp.

Dave Johnson

EO Johnson Business Technologies

Sue Leonard

Tourism Director

Mandy Nunes

Workforce Development Director

New Faces at the Chamber

Cathy Leibke

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

John Monarski

Ex-Officio - City of Chippewa Falls

Karin Schuler

Premium Waters, Inc.

Riley Wogernese

Cobblestone Hotel & Suites

Cayci Young

Dove Healthcare - Regional Vent Center

Lindsey Nilsestuen

Administrative Assistant

Ellie Peabody

Communication & Marketing Manager

We are so excited to welcome some new faces to our chamber staff...

Sue Leonard

Tourism Director

Sue is excited to join the Chippewa Falls Chamber of Commerce as your new Tourism Director. She is interested in developing creative ways to share what we have to offer, to work within the local community and to put Chippewa County top of mind. After serving in the US Army, Sue graduated from Northern Illinois University and has almost 30 years of Marketing experience working for companies like Sears, Canon Business Solutions, The Queen Mary Hotel and Bauer Built Tire & Service. Hailing from Thorp, Sue enjoys traveling. When you meet her, you can ask about her favorite destinations in the world.

Ellie Peabody

Communication & Marketing Manager

Ellie started with the Chamber full time in June as the Communication & Marketing Manager. She recently graduated from UW-Eau Claire with a degree in Marketing Analytics and Spanish. Her hometown is Nisswa, MN - so she enjoys spending her time outdoors on the water all-year round whether its tubing and water skiing in the summer or ice skating with friends in the winter. The lake is her favorite place to be. Another favorite past-time of hers is spending time with her family while listening to live music.

Missy Prissel

Program & Partnership Director

Missy has a Digital Marketing degree from CVTC and experience at Eau Claire’s Chamber of Commerce. Most recently she was with Airtech Sports where she managed co-op advertising and events, and planned customer appreciation, boat and vendor shows and employee appreciation activities. Missy is excited to be the new Program & Partnership Director for the Chamber and is eager to work on events such as Oktoberfest, Farmer Appreciation Dinner and the Annual Meeting. She is really excited about the opportunity at the Chamber and to meet all of you.

Lindsey graduated with an associate degree from CVTC’s Administrative Professional program in 2016. She was born and raised in Eau Claire, but now resides in the City of Cadott. Lindsey has a strong passion for helping others. She is looking forward to being able to assist community members enjoy what Chippewa County has to offer. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband, two sons and family pets.

Lindsey Nilsestuen

Administrative Assistant

Missy Prissel

Program & Partnership Director

Leadership Chippewa Falls

THANK YOU TO THESE DEDICATED PARTICIPANTS AND THEIR EMPLOYERS FOR SUPPORTING THE 2022-2023 LEADERSHIP CHIPPEWA FALLS

Ashley Adams

Karen Behling

Richard Coates

Alyssa Cooley

Nicole Frederick

Vickie Gaerlan

Brendan Haney

Amanda Hill-Hable

Jenna Jandrt-Hoff

Marty Johnson

McKenzie Johnson

Kristin KarnesFrederickson

Joe Koller

Jake Krebsbach

John Lahti

Michele O’Connor

Chris Ouellette

Sheridan Pabst

Timothy Proue

Randi Schrader

Stephanie Stoik

Nick White

Ashley Adams - Ashley is the Manager of Pricing and Planning at Xcel Energy. She has more than 10 years of financial analysis and regulatory experience. Ashley received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from UW-Eau Claire with a major in Accounting and minor in Management as well as an Advanced Business Communication Certificate. While working at Wipfli she became a licensed CPA and has continued keeping her credential current. Ashley is also an active community member as a board member and volunteer with Junior Achievement and board member on UW-Eau Claire Business Communications Advisory Board. Ashley and her husband Dan live in rural Chippewa Falls with their three children.

Karen Behling - Karen serves as Pastor at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church. Before moving to Wisconsin in 2019, she served in Austin, MN and elsewhere. She holds degrees from St. Olaf College and Wartburg Theological Seminary. Karen serves on the Family Support Center Board plus enjoys involvement with Mentor Chippewa and community theater. She lives in Chippewa Falls with her spouse who works in River Falls. Their family includes three adult children and one grandchild.

Richard Coates- Richard works for Wipfli LLP in the Technology Consulting practice as the Managed Services Operations Manager. He has a background in IT Disaster Recovery and Systems Administration. He attended the University of Western Sydney in NSW, Australia, studying Information Technology as part of the B. Computer Science Degree. He is a member of the Australian Computer Society and has numerous professional certifications in the IT field. Richard has participated in the Leadership Eau Claire , Leadership Chippewa Falls, and the Chippewa Valley Rally. Richard has resided in Eau Claire since he arrived in the United States in 2019.

Alyssa Cooley - Alyssa is the Human Resources Manager for Great Northern Corporation in Chippewa Falls. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire with a major in Human Resources Management and has worked in the field for 22 years. She holds two professional Human Resources certifications, SHRM-CP and PHR, and is a member of Chippewa Valley SHRM and National SHRM. She is the current Committee Chair of Cub Scouts Pack 18, and is long-time supporter of United Way, participating in Day of Caring and co-chairing the Great Northern workplace campaign. Alyssa grew up in Chippewa Falls, and has lived in Bloomer since 2005, with her husband and two boys.

Nicole Frederick - Nicole is a Branch Manager for Royal Credit Union at the Chippewa Falls South branch. Nicole began working for Royal in 2015 as a Teller and progressed to Branch Manager in November of 2018. Nicole was a General Manager of Culvers in Eau Claire. Nicole graduated from Chippewa Valley Technical College in 2017 with a degree in Business Management. Nicole has been involved in many Royal committees including Young Professionals, Toastmasters, Exploring Leadership Mentoring, Tristate Mentorship, and Frontline Efficiencies. She volunteers with Junior Achievement, Oktoberfest Volunteer Committee Co-Chair, and serves on the board for Lowes Creek Baseball. Nicole currently resides in Eau Claire with her husband and their two children.

Vickie Gaerlan - Vickie has been working at ChemCeed for five years. She received her bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Rasmussen College. Through ChemCeed, she has volunteered and donated to many organizations. She volunteers a few times a year at Agnes’s Table. She also helps ChemCeed with their annual Relay for Life cancer research foundation. She is originally from Rockford, Illinois. She moved to Chippewa Falls in 2016 with her 3 children so she could create a better life for them.

Brendan Haney - Brendan is a commercial lender for Citizens State Bank. He earned his bachelor of science degree with an emphasis on Economics from UW-Madison. He is a board member of the Stanley Chamber, a member of the Chippewa Falls and Eau Claire Chambers, Young Professionals, and member of the United Way Emerging Leaders. Brendan Haney lives in Chippewa Falls with his wife and soon to be daughter since 2021.

Amanda Hill-Hable - Amanda is a Curriculum and Instruction Specialist for the Chippewa Falls School District and an adjunct for UW-Oshkosh. An Appleton, Wisconsin native, it was UW-Eau Claire that lured Amanda to the Chippewa Valley where she earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. Amanda holds a Professional Educator and School Administrator license with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. Amanda’s current volunteerism includes: CF Oktoberfest, CF Booster Club Extravaganza, Chippewa Area History Center, UWEC Alumni Board of Directors Vice President, and CVTC Foundation of Teacher Education Advisory Committee. Amanda lives in Chippewa Falls with her husband, Chad, and son, Graham.

Jenna Jandrt-Hoff - Jenna is a Marketing Specialist at Mid-West Family in Eau Claire where she works closely with local businesses to formulate a marketing strategy that achieves their goals. In addition to her job at Mid-West Family, she is a part of the Board of Directors for Legacy Community Center and Agnes’ Table. Jenna earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UW-Eau Claire and Masters of Science in Educational Psychology from Georgia State University. Jenna resides in Eau Claire with her husband and cat, Ygritte. In her free time, she enjoys reading, drinking too much coffee, and riding bike.

Marty Johnson - Marty is an Account Manager for Trane Commercial Building Services serving northwest WI. After closing his HVAC business in 2007, he earned a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from UW-Platteville in 2013. He is a Certified Energy Manager and licensed HVAC provider. He is a member of the AEE and ASHRAE professional organizations and is an active member in Chippewa Valley Facility Engineers, Wisconsin Healthcare Engineers Association Chapter V, and Wisconsin Association of School Business Officials. Marty is a council member at his church, volunteers with Habitat for Humanity and Sleep in Heavenly Peace, and was Plan Commission member in two communities. Marty lives south of Eau Claire with his wife Teresa and 2 children since 2017.

McKenzie Johnson - McKenzie is the Lead Member Services Representative at WESTconsin Credit Union in Chippewa Falls. She has worked at WESTconsin Credit Union for over 4 years, starting as a part-time teller in the Barron office. In 2018, she graduated from Chippewa Valley Technical College with an Associate’s degree and found her passion for finance and helping people shortly after that. McKenzie is involved in the community through her church, volunteer work, and Leadership Chippewa Falls. McKenzie is looking to move to the Chippewa Falls area in the near future with her 1-year-old puppy, Dutton.

Kristin Karnes-Frederickson - Kristin is the Program Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Wisconsin since 2022. Kristin has also worked in to serve young children and families in Chippewa County. She graduated from UW-River Falls with a BS of Sociology and Minors in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and International Studies in 2003. In 2019 Kristin received an Infant, Early Childhood, and Family Mental Health Capstone Certificate from UW-Madison. Kristin is a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters and Mentor Chippewa. She sits on the boards of the Family Support Center, is an Infant Family Specialist, a member action teams through CHIP, and Healthy Communities, Health Dunn Right, and volunteers with a variety of other youth serving agencies. Kristin has lived in Chippewa Falls with her husband since 2010.

Joe Koller - Joe joined Market & Johnson in 2018 and as part of their Industrial Division team overseeing projects in Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. In July of 2022, he moved into his current role of Business Development to further initiate and develop new business relationships and maintain relationships with past and current clients. Joe is very active in the community and has served on the Eau Claire Youth Hockey Board for 16 years - 6 years as President. In addition, he serves on the Chippewa Valley Facility Engineering Board.

Jake Krebsbach - Jake works at Northwestern Bank as a business banker focusing primarily on building relationships with commercial clients. Before becoming a lender, Jake was a credit analyst at Northwestern Bank. Jake attended UW-Eau Claire where he majored in Accounting and Finance. He is a member of the Chippewa Falls and Eau Claire Chambers, Young Professionals of the Chippewa Valley (YP), and participated in Leadership Chippewa Falls. His community involvement, Boy Scouts Leadership Dinner Committee and volunteering for Westgate Sportsman’s Club, the Northern Wisconsin State Fair, Oktoberfest and other events in the Chippewa Valley. Jake lives in Lake Hallie and has been living in the Chippewa Valley since 2014.

John Lahti - John works for Miron Construction as a Project Manager. John has a bachelor’s in Construction Management from UW-Stout. He is also a LEED Green Associate and Advanced Healthcare Construction certificate holder. John is a member of the United Way Emerging Leaders and Wisconsin Healthcare Engineering Association. John has been involved with various volunteering activities around the Chippewa Valley including Feed My Starving Children, National Night Out, and United Way Day of Caring. John Lahti lives in Chippewa Falls, with his wife and son since 2017.

Michele O’Connor - Michele is the Director of Operations at Fries Financial Group. She has worked with Tim Fries for 23 years, and previously worked at a brokerage firm in downtown Minneapolis. Michele attended Hamline University and has her Series 7, 63 and 24 licenses. Michele was a past Optimist, and Kiwanian. She has served on several committees including the Notre Dame Athletic Association, the McDonell High School Athletic Association, and the St. Charles Future Fund Trust. She is currently on the board of the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation, the St. Charles Pastoral Council, and the McDonell Finance Committee. Michele lives in Chippewa Falls and has two grown children.

Chris Ouellette -Chrishas been a Senior Media Relations Representative for Xcel Energy since 2016. She previously worked for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and in the news media in the Chippewa Valley. Chris is a graduate of UW-Eau Claire where she received her BA in Broadcast Journalism in 1991. Chris has been actively involved in Rotary International in Eau Claire and Chippewa Falls and is a board member for Chippewa Falls Rotary Foundation. She colunteers with Junior Achievement, the American Red Cross, United Way, and Feed My People Food Pantry. Chris moved to Chippewa Falls in 2021 after becoming and empty-nester, and currently lives with her two goldendoodles!

Sheridan Pabst - Sheridan has been employed with the Chippewa Falls Police Department for nearly 13 years, serving as a Patrol Sergeant. Sheridan is an Alumni of UW-Eau Claire. Sheridan has been involved with several professional organizations including LETOA and NTOA. He has attained numerous positions within the Police Department, including Instructor positions, Team Leader with the SWAT Team and time as a Narcotics Investigator. Sheridan lives in Chippewa Falls with is wife and two children.

Timothy Proue- Timothy (TJ) is an attorney at Wiley Law in downtown Chippewa Falls whose primary focus is business and employment law. TJ is licensed to practice law in Wisconsin state and federal district courts. TJ has been involved in various community groups including the McDonell Area Catholic Schools, the Optimist Club of Chippewa Falls, and the Chippewa Valley Council – Boy Scouts of America, among others. TJ grew up in Chippewa Falls where he lives with his wife, Julia, and their children.

Randi Schrader - Randi works as the Director of Information Technology with the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley. With a collection of classes and a diverse work history, she is certified in IT support, Y-USA leadership, and cosmetology management and is a member of the Chippewa Falls Chamber and Y-USA Young Professionals Network. Beyond her professional role with the YMCA, she can be found volunteering at their community and partner events. Randi is a Chippewa Falls native where she resides near friends and family.

Stephanie Stoik - Stephanie is the Human Resources Business Partner at Mason Companies Inc, in Chippewa Falls WI. She attended Chippewa Valley Technical College for Human Resources certifications. Stephanie is involved with Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue, United Way and other various nonprofits through connections at work. Stephanie Stoik lives in Eau Claire WI with her family and rescue animals.

Nick White - Nick is a Commercial Loan Officer for Prevail Bank, owns a small business, and is the Interim Athletic Director for Regis High School. He has experience working with individuals with disabilities as a Vocational Coordinator and as a Marketing and Development Director. Nick attended UW-Stout in the Hospitality and Tourism program with minors in Coaching and Service Management. Nick serves on the Downtown Eau Claire Inc. Board, Visit Eau Claire Exec Board, and Leadership Eau Claire committee. He volunteers for Junior Achievement, Big Brothers Big Sisters program. He was on the board for the Children’s Museum and was the Capital Campaign Chair for Miracle League of the Chippewa Valley. Nick currently lives in Eau Claire with his 11-year-old daughter, Evelyn.

VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers are vital in making Oktoberfest a success. A portion of our proceeds are donated to the groups that dedicate their time and talent to the event. We are always looking for volunteers, whether on a committee to help plan or for the weekend. If you have any staff looking for opportunities to give back to our community, feel free to have them email ofest@chippewachamber.org or call us at 715-723-0331. If your organization offers paid volunteer time, we are more than happy to help your staff with the requirements to fulfill their hours.

BECOME A VIP FREUND OF OKTOBERFEST

Do you love Oktoberfest as much as we do? Become a 2023 Oktoberfest Freund and show your love for Oktoberfest!

Includes:

Weekend Admission

2023 Collective Hat Pin

Name on the Freund Banner

Ticket to the EXCLUSIVE Festmeister Gala

Souvenir Haus Discount

VIP Parking

Ifyouwouldliketoconsignitemsthatarenolongerworking foryou,contactustolearnmoreandgetyourconsignerID.

Ofest@chippewachamber.org

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Promote Your Business

At Business After Hours and/or Coffee and Commerce

Business After Hours

Sponsorship Opportunities

• Mondays from 4:30 - 6:00 PM

• One host location and up to two potential co-sponsors for each date

• Host/sponsors are responsible for organizing food/beverages

• Host/sponsors must provide 3 door prizes

- One worth $50+ and two worth $25+

2024 Dates Available

Please check your preferred dates

Coffee and Commerce Sponsorship Opportunities

• Fridays from 8:00 - 9:00 AM

• One sponsor for each date

• Sponsors must provide one door prize worth $25+

• Sponsorship cost is $150

2024 Dates Available

Please check your preferred dates

Please select if you prefer to be a host and/or co-sponsor ☐ Host

Deadline: October 18, 2023

All submissions will be placed in a drawing for the 2024 schedule.

Questions on Business After Hours or Coffee and Commerce?

Call: (715) 723-0331