FALL 2015 | VOLUME 16 | ISSUE 3 by Fox Cities Chamber

fox cities chamber

Energizing & Empowering Enterprise

Fall 2015 Volume 16, Issue 3

A new brand

EMERGES

InThis

ISSUE Every Issue

23. New Members

Highlights

2. Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Perspective

25. Ask A YP

26. Economic Development

Views from Chamber President/CEO Shannon Meyer Full

4. Business Spotlight 16. Your Future Spotlight On Success

18. Happenings 22. Calendar of Events 23. Diamond Members

Fox Cites Chamber Business (v259180). Published quarterly by the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and Industry, 125 N. Superior Street, Appleton, WI 54911. PH 920-734-7101. WEB www. foxcitieschamber.com. Periodical postage paid at Appleton, WI. Annual subscription fee to members for Fox Cities Chamber Business is $9 and is included in dues.

28. Tips Tools & Techniques Cover Story

Features 14. Career-based Learning

12. A New Brand

Telling our story

News 8. Fox Cities Business Awards 21. Advocating for Business

Mark Rahmlow

Investor acknowledgement

Preparing the future workforce

20. Women- A Driving Force

Why your business needs more women in leadership

Photography by: BConnected, LLC

Committed to building vibrant communities since 1909

Postmaster: Send address changes to: Fox Cities Chamber Business, 125 N. Superior Street, Appleton, WI 54911.

NEENAH WI

MACHESNEY PARK IL

VALPARAISO IN

MCMGRP.COM

Fox Cities Business November 2015

President’s

PERSPECTIVE “We’re working to enhance and ensure a strong talent pipeline within the community and by doing that we’re supporting and helping to grow your business’s development.”

Shannon Full President/CEO

Fox Cities Business November 2015

Board of Directors Jen Bauer Miron Construction Lisa Cruz, Red Shoes PR, Inc. John Dennis Gardan Inc. Kevin Eismann Epiphany Law, LLC James Fenlon Village of Little Chute Travis Froze BMO Harris Bank Robyn Gruner AT&T Eric Higgs Kimberly Clark Corporation Sharon Hulce Employment Resource Group Inc. Dave Jansen ThedaCare Lyssa King OuterEdge Stage Vic Lutz McMahon Chris Matheny Fox Valley Technical College Jen Wagner Mauk Affinity Health System Rick Parks Modern Woodmen of America Todd Romenesko Calumet County Bruce Sasman We Energies Mark Scheffler Appleton Group, LLC Gary Vaughan Guident Business Solutions Monica Vomastic Landmark Staffing Resources Bob Zemple Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP Publisher Shannon Full Editor Rachel Birschbach Design Wild Apple Creative Photography BConnected Printing JP Graphics

Helping your business succeed TALK TO PEOPLE WHO KNOW YOUR INDUSTRY At Schenck, you’ll work with professionals who serve other businesses like yours and understand the issues driving your industry. Our expertise includes: f Agriculture & Food Processing

f Hospitality & Retail

f Dealerships

f Manufacturing & Distribution

f Government

f Not-for-Profit Organizations

f Financial Institutions

f Real Estate & Construction

f Health Care

f Trucking & Logistics

To learn more about our full line of solutions and how we can help, visit us online at schencksc.com or call 920-731-8111.

200 E. Washington Street | Appleton | 800-236-2246 | schencksc.com

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Dear Members, We use this magazine as a tool for storytelling. While an ancient art, how stories are shared varies from word-of-mouth to ever-changing social media outlets. We are committed to publishing a printed magazine four times a year, as traditional print media plays a role in sharing the stories of the Chamber’s stakeholders, members and investors as well as our own. On page 14, you will read how career-based learning has become a part of student educational experiences. For the 2017-18 school year, all schools must implement Academic and Career Plans in the curriculum for grades 6 through 12. What role can your business have in this new talent developing opportunity? The magazine is also a great way to tell the stories of our stakeholders from the Business Spotlight to the Diamond Member Honor Roll highlighting companies that have been Chamber members and community supporters for more than 40 years. We also recognize the 2015 Business Award Winners on page 8, and the ever popular photos of the Happenings around the community. On page 12, we set out to tell the Chamber’s story of how we launched a new look and refreshed brand. We’ve been working with our members, stakeholders and community leaders over the past few years asking questions, and we’ve been able to turn many of their suggestions into new innovative, award-winning programs. The rebranding reflects on the evolution of the Chamber and its forward-thinking mindset. Included in the rebranding is a new logo and added tag line to our many divisions, programs, and events to help strengthen the Chamber’s connection to these various offerings. It is a cohesive effort involving all parts of the organization working to communicate our shared mission of “promoting growth and prosperity,” as well as telling our story better. The Chamber has been in a transformational period the last couple of years. These new programs we have introduced, such as Talent Upload and Your Future, are addressing many of the issues you have shared with us. We’re working to enhance and ensure a strong talent pipeline within the community and by doing that we’re supporting and helping to grow your business’s development. The Chamber has many different facets collectively working together to help strengthen the Fox Cities region. I invite you to take a look at our new brand family on page 13, and if you have any questions or would like more information on a division, program, or event you are unfamiliar with, I encourage you to reach out.

Chairman of the Board Daniel P. Ferris SECURA Insurance Companies Chairman-Elect Bruce Zak JPMorgan Chase, N.A. Past Chairman Kip Golden CR Structures Group, Inc. Secretary/Treasurer Kathi Seifert Katapult, LLC

3001 East Venture Drive Appleton, WI 54911 Phone 920-733-4483 Fax 920-733-1700 www.jpinc.com

Printing ... as Promised

Business SPOTLIGHT advertising avenues out there for more awareness. We offer the community marketing on our Shop Local medias to help reach an additional audience. For example, the average business has around 800 “likes” on Facebook. We have over 23,000 “likes” on our Facebook pages!

Shop Local offers community shared (co-op style) marketing programs. So many local and small businesses struggle with figuring out what’s all out there for marketing, what’s going to work for them, keep up with it all and do it all! Shop Local has already built up a large local audience of over 45,000 customers and offer marketing across the top 12 online and mobile medias, all on one platform. Plus, because it’s a shared program, it’s a fraction of the cost of traditional advertising! We encourage businesses to market themselves on their own social media pages and with other

Our target customers are local businesses that want to simplify their online and mobile marketing (digital) as well as save time and money. We can take it off their plate, as well as save a large investment, if they were to do it all on their own. Shop Local is always searching for new medias to be able to reach customers; we’re working on one of our biggest right now! We’re beta testing our Shop Local Online Store in hopes to be launched before the holiday shopping season. Think Amazon or Etsy, but only local products and gift certificates. We’re trying to make it convenient and easy to shop local online and via mobile. www.shoplocalappleton.com

Business Spotlight Submissions Business Spotlight opportunities are a benefit to Chamber members at the Grow, Engage, Accelerate, Influence and Lead levels. If you are interested in seeing your business featured in the next magazine, email

marketing@foxcitieschamber.com for more information. If you’re interested in learning more about the value of your membership with the Chamber and to take advantage of the many marketing opportunities offered, email Leah Schapiro at lschapiro@foxcitieschamber.com.

diabetes, obesity, arthritis and myriad other illness and ailments essentially caused or worsened by the lack of movement as the true competition.

At Xperience Fitness it is our goal to influence as many people as we possibly can to begin to exercise, eat well and enjoy all of the benefits of being healthy and fit. It is our company’s mission to be the connection for people in our communities to live a better life through physical fitness and proper nutrition. To that end, we believe it is our corporate responsibility to support and encourage everyone to become active in whatever way feels right to them. We seek to inspire and motivate our members and our communities to get moving - to move for a better life. We provide beautiful, clean, warm and inviting facilities filled with a wide variety of equipment and amenities including salt water pools, group classes, child care, personal training services and more - all at a fraction of the cost of most other businesses in our industry. We simply offer more than people ever imagine, for considerably less than people expect to pay. This allows us to view competition in a completely different light. We only see heart disease, cancer,

Our members are 18 to 88 years old; men and women of all ages, across all demographic groups. All seekers of a life improved or even a life transformed by embracing the challenge of an active and healthy lifestyle. All people seeking to improve the way they feel. It is inherent in our mission that we continue to grow and reach more and more people with the message of a better life through fitness; the message that being a part of this movement doesn’t need to be expensive and for a low price you do not have to settle for a marginal fitness facility with limited offerings. We started out in 2003 in Appleton with one location. We have grown to 14 locations and we will continue to grow by adding more facilities across the Midwest with more and more amenities, keeping up with the latest trends in programming and equipment, and employing friendly and motivating teams to support our members and communities. www.myxperiencefitness.com

have obtained advanced certifications in Spiritual Life Coaching and Self-Mastery Teaching. I facilitate proprietary, clinically-proven exercises that are proven to create permanent behavioral change.

Anakh Leadership Coaching LLC works specifically with business professionals to build their leadership character virtues. True leaders are intellectually competent, but they also personify kindness, empathy, courage, honesty and integrity. They are willing to confront and continually improve on their own weaknesses. They are able to make difficult decisions and withstand popular disapproval. They approve of and are true to themselves. They appreciate and understand a wider perspective of life and their role in it. Through Self-Mastery coaching, clients are educated and empowered to confront their weaknesses and create new behavioral habits which support their leadership goals and create more inner depth and meaning in their lives. In addition to having a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and an extensive background working with business leaders and their human resources, I

Fox Cities Business November 2015

I coach business professionals who are intensely interested and highly motivated to develop their personal and leadership character virtues. Clients are courageous enough to challenge and overcome their weaknesses and change ineffective habits. They aspire to become highly effective role models and business leaders. As New York Times columnist and best-selling author, David Brooks states in his new book, “The Road to Character,” there is a difference between resume virtues and eulogy virtues. “The resume virtues are the ones you list on your resume …The eulogy virtues are deeper…They’re the virtues that get talked about at your funeral, the ones that exist at the core of your being – whether you are kind, brave, honest or faithful; what kind of relationships you formed.” Self-Mastery Coaching will help you identify what is holding you back from being the person you want to be. Find what is meaningful to you and pursue it today! www.aleadershipcoach.com/workshops.html

have built a reputation on providing the finest food, tastefully prepared by our culinary staff and creatively presented by our service personnel. We focus on EXCEEDING expectations and accommodating the specialized needs of each and every customer.

Canteen Catering offers professional full service catering at affordable prices, with a wide selection of unique menus to accommodate all types of tastes and budgets. We specialize in corporate and/or social functions such as company picnics, corporate luncheons, holiday celebrations, safety award dinners and much, much more. Canteen Catering is also an approved caterer for the beautiful Fox Cities Performing Arts Center. Canteen can assist you with the catering and coordination of all your event planning needs. We

Attention is given to every detail to make your event special. Off-site catering is all we do, so let us use our expertise to make your event and location the best it can be. Compare Canteen Catering to other catering companies and you will find our service charges and gratuities to be a value for your event. For further information on coordinating your event, please call Sue Zdanovec at 920-735-6113 or e-mail her at susan.zdanovec@compass-usa.com. You can also order your catering online and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/canteencateringnew www.canteencateringnortheastwisconsin.catertrax.com

Fox Cities Business November 2015

Business SPOTLIGHT

Currently, Rogers Memorial Hospital—Appleton serves adults (ages 18+) diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, depression, eating disorder or posttraumatic stress disorder. Rogers also works closely with referring clinicians, teachers and other professionals to ensure that community members receive the behavioral health care they need.

Home Helpers’ primary focus is working with the elderly and their adult children. We find the adult children needing relief from caring for their loved one. Typically the adult children are caught between their careers, caring for their own children or grandchildren, and caring for parents. Stress is created when one of these three is out of balance.

Home Helpers services help people remain in their homes where they are the most comfortable, safest, and function at their highest. We assist people of all ages who struggle to remain independent. This may be the result of a disease, injury, surgery or the aging process. We are highly regarded for our work with Parkinson Disease, dementia and Alzheimer’s, aging process, and end of life care. Our clients find our services to be a cost effective way to maintain their independence when compared to other living arrangements.

We are currently working with the Wisconsin Parkinson Association to develop a training program for family members and professionals who care for those with Parkinson Disease. The training program will fill a unique need within our community to improve the quality of care for those suffering from this terrible disease. This training program will be the first of its kind nationwide.

We are very sensitive to the concerns and needs of our clients. When people first contact us they know they need assistance but not sure of what is needed. We do an in-depth assessment that looks at the present needs but then also of the upcoming needs. This proactive approach helps minimize any crisis situations.

Contact: Denis L Ashauer President 920-757-9610

The addition of Rogers Memorial Hospital— Appleton to the Fox Valley Region will allow a greater access to behavioral health services for residents in the surrounding communities. This location will initially offer partial hospitalization programs (PHP’s) for adults with OCD and anxiety disorders, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder and eating disorders. These programs will provide treatment six hours per day, five days per week. We offer a high standard of specialized, quality intensive treatment delivered by experienced and talented staff, including psychiatrists and psychologists on site. Following a tradition established 100 years ago, Rogers offers each patient a personalized treatment plan and treats each individual’s unique behavioral health situation.

Founded in 1983, U.S. Cellular has 6,500 associates and serves nearly 5 million customers in 23 states across the United States, including 5 Appleton area locations. At U.S. Cellular, we champion Fox Cities small business owners and want to offer them access to tools to help them be successful. We offer a variety of devices and plans designed for business owners, and our business associates can tailor a solution to meet their exact needs. Between smartphones, tablets, modems, vehicle monitoring systems, portable 4G LTE routers and other machine to machine technology, businesses can be more efficient. We offer flexible plans that can be customized to meet each business’s unique requirements.

Fox Cities Business November 2015

Our size and our focus on small and mid-size cities enable us to know our customers better than any other carrier and allows us to deliver an ideal customer experience. U.S. Cellular is also committed to supporting the Fox Cities area, and this past year we donated $15,000 to the Boys & Girls Club of the Fox Valley and $2,500 to the Winnebago County 4-H Club. We have supported local high school sports by providing $3,000 to Appleton North High School through our Better Community Connections program, and our associates have worked with non-profits such as SOAR Fox Cities Inc., which provides services to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. For additional information, please contact your local Business Sales Manager, Bob Decoteau at (920) 366-9636. www.uscellular.com

We are located at 4351 W. College Ave. near Highway 41. The newly renovated 9,200-square-foot facility is Rogers’ sixth Wisconsin location and has the capacity to accommodate 40 patients. The mental health treatment services at Rogers’ Appleton are an extension of the evidence-based care and acclaimed clinical expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for which Rogers is known. In addition to CBT, the treatment components include: groupbased therapies, patient-centered education, exposure and response prevention, prolonged exposure and more. www.rogershospital.org/appleton

Wells Fargo, success depends on how much team members care for each other, for their customers, their communities and other stakeholders.

We offer a strong line-up of phones, tablets and connected devices from Apple, Samsung Electronics, Motorola Mobility and LG Electronics among other device manufacturers.

U.S. Cellular has established itself as a competitive wireless carrier by relentlessly focusing on the customer experience, delivering industry-leading innovations that attract and retain customers, maintaining an award-winning, high-quality 4G LTE network, and commitment to the communities where our customers live, work and play.

Wells Fargo fills two key business needs. First, the company’s vision is to satisfy its customers’ – individuals and businesses – financial needs and help them succeed financially. The company does that by providing a wide range of services and financial advice including banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance. Wells Fargo is equally committed to doing its part to help the local communities in which it does business remain strong and vibrant – great places to live, work, play and do business. To that end, Wells Fargo provides monetary support to local non-profit organizations, team member volunteers and thought leadership through board participation. Our success begins with a culture of caring and has as much to do with attitude as aptitude—what’s in the hearts of team members, not just their heads. At

Wells Fargo has the resources and know-how to serve a wide range of customers no matter how big or small, no matter how simple or complex their financial needs. All Wells Fargo team members work to the good of customers – individuals; families; and small, medium and large businesses. True to its customer-centric business philosophy, Wells Fargo is putting an even larger focus on creating the products, services, and technologies that will allow the company to stay competitive and allow our customers to do their banking when, where, and how they would like. Among the newest of the company’s innovative offerings are Android Pay™ providing consumers and small businesses another new way to pay with a mobile wallet, the ‘Steps to Better Banking’ initiative which makes opening an account even easier, and The Business Plan Center which features free business planning resources including a tool that can help every small business create a business plan and analyze local competition. wellsfargo.com

Fox Cities Business November 2015

Fox Cities Chamber Announces 2015 Business Award Winners

Business of the Year The Business of the Year Award recognizes businesses for outstanding performance, growing and/or increasing jobs; increasing sales; overcoming adversity; and community contributions. This year’s winners are:

Large Employer, Manufacturing Category - Menasha Corporation Small Employer, Manufacturing Category - Alpha-Prime Large Employer, Service Category - McClone Small Employer, Service Category - Midwest Restoration

Rising Star The Rising Star Award recognizes relatively new “Up and Coming” small businesses with a unique blend of vision, energy, perseverance and skill. It is for ventures that have been in business less than five years, and have gotten off to a strong start with the potential for growing into a prosperous enterprise in the future. This year’s winners are:

Manufacturing Category - R3NEW, LLC Service Category - Nutritional Healing LLC Wholesale/Retail Category - Green Gecko, Inc.

Company Innovation Today, more than ever, innovation is recognized as the key to long-term success. Innovative companies identify opportunities and execute creative-thinking and calculated risk-taking to bring innovation to the marketplace. The Company Innovation Award acknowledges organizations that take risks around their marketing and promotional practices that have ultimately improved revenue, communication, customer relationships, market share or visibility. This year’s winner is:

Small Employer - AeroInnovate

Exemplary Marketing and/or Performance The Exemplary Marketing and/or Performance Award recognizes organizations that have taken risks around their marketing and promotional practices that have ultimately improved revenue, communication, customer relationships, market share or visibility. This year’s winners are:

Large Employer - Fox Valley Technical College Small Employer - SOAR Fox Cities

Corporate Citizen/Corporate Leadership On Wednesday, June 10th, the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce recognized its winners of the 2015 Business Awards, which rewards businesses and organizations in the Fox Cities that help make it a vibrant, innovative and dynamic community. The awards given are based on leadership, dedication and achievement. The following list shares each business award, what the award signifies and its winner. 8

Fox Cities Business November 2015

The Corporate Citizen/Corporate Leadership Award recognizes organizations with a philosophy of giving and community involvement that have made significant differences in the health and well-being of the Fox Cities. The award encourages and supports corporate social responsibility and community leadership. This year’s winners are:

Large Employer - Innovative Services, Inc. Small Employer - Stellar Blue Technologies

Fox Cities Business November 2015

Business of the Year Award Large Employer, Manufacturing Category Headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, Menasha Corporation has over 75 locations in North America, Europe and Asia adding approximately 1,800 employees throughout North America in three years. The company recently announced the decision to remain headquartered in the Fox Valley with plans to construct a new headquarters in Neenah on the site of its existing location. Through its philanthropic arm, the Menasha Corporation Foundation, the company supported hundreds of organizations in communities across North America with a total of $1.22 million in monetary donations. www.menasha.com 920.751.1000 Small Employer, Manufacturing Category Alpha-Prime was established as a paper converting job shop in 1990. A first expansion occurred in 1996 to add a new state-of-the-art precision sheeter, and a second expansion was completed in April 2014. In the last five years, this has resulted in an employment growth of 20 percent and average annual sales for the last five years have been 35 percent higher than the previous five year average. Alpha-Prime is proud to donate over $10,000 per year to numerous local community events and organizations. www.alphaprimeinc.com 920.731.0848 Large Employer, Service Category In 1949, Ralph McClone started selling life insurance as a “side business”. Today, this “side business” has become one of the largest independent agencies in Wisconsin, and among the top 10 percen in the country. The agency gives back 10 percent of every dollar earned to the communities they serve through their charitable foundation and other corporate gifts. www.mcclone.com 920.725.3232 Small Employer, Service Category For seven years, Midwest Restoration has specialized in restoration and reconstruction of residential and commercial properties damaged by fire, water, storms, vandalism or any other incident. In 2008, Coyne S. Borree founded the company out of his garage as the only employee. Today, the company has 21 employees and increased sales by 1512 percent over the last five years. In 2014, the company donated 7 percent of their total sales volume to a variety of community organizations. www.mwrestoration.com 920.460.3900

Rising Star Award Manufacturing Category R3NEW is a three-year old electronics recycler and IT asset disposition service company. In that time, the company has grown from three to nine employees, and has grown unit volume and revenue over 100 percent. The company was founded in part to provide a low cost source for refurbished IT equipment to non-profit organizations that may have a limited budget, and continues to provide these services today. www.r3new.com 920.358.0103 Service Category Nutritional Healing believes in the science approach when designing weight loss programs, discovering food sensitivities and allergies, hormone testing and performance training to name a few. In 2010, the company was operating in a 150 sq. ft. office with one employee, and recently moved to a 4,300 sq. ft. space that has nine employees with plans to expand by one to two more employees by yearend. This increase is due to a revenue growth of 434 percent in 2014. nutritionalhealingllc.com 920.358.5764

Fox Cities Business November 2015

Wholesale/Retail Category In September 2010, Green Gecko Grocer & Deli opened in City Center Plaza and moved to Richmond Street in 2014. The business grew from two employees to its current staff of seven with plans to add one additional staff this year. Business has grown each year including during tough economic times. www.greengeckogrocer.com 920.380.8311

Company Innovation Award Small Employer Category AeroInnovate’s goal is to facilitate the alignment of passionate, successful investors and industry leaders with the best aviation-related opportunities in the world to help get deals done. Although their mission is global in nature, the company has served as a catalyst for local economic growth. AeroInnovate has played a significant role in the development of a local aviation business park and incubator facility at the Wittman Regional Airport, and has brought a focus to aviation in the State of Wisconsin and is the impetus for the creation of the Wisconsin Aerospace Partners. www.aeroinnovate.org 920.424.0833

Exemplary Marketing/Performance Award Large Employer Category For over 100 years, Fox Valley Technical College has been serving the Fox Cities communities and, today, serves nearly 50,000 people annually with classes, training services and technical assistance. The marketing team aligns with the college’s mission of, Education for Employment, and must connect with an audience that spans four generations while also reaching both business to business, and business to consumer segments. The launch of a new website in May 2014 started when the redesign team reimagined the entire online audience journey and built a new responsive website from scratch. Since launch, mobile traffic has increased 200 percent. www.fvtc.edu 800.735.3882 Small Employer Category For fifty-eight years, SOAR, formerly known as ARC Fox Cities, has empowered people with differing abilities. In 2014, the organization initiated an integrated re-branding campaign complete with new name and logo change, and launched the use of several new technologies. The integrated campaign utilizing new and traditional marketing communication tools increased the visibility of SOAR Fox Cities within the Fox Valley and the state of Wisconsin. www.soarfoxcities.com 920.731.9831

Corporate Citizen/Corporate Leadership Award Large Employer Category Innovative Services began in 2004 working primarily with individuals with developmental disabilities. Within a couple years of expanding operations into the Fox Valley, leadership took the initiative to become engaged in local charitable drives and events in addition to company-wide endeavors. The team’s willingness to give of themselves has not wavered through the years. www.myinnovativeservices.com 920.830.2995 x1002 Small Employer Category Stellar Blue Technologies is a custom web page developer and website design builder that provides search engine optimization packages. The company has a strong focus on the local economy and business development needs of Northeast Wisconsin, and is at its best when a non-profit opportunity arises. The team members are encouraged to seek out opportunities to lend their talents to better the community, and each nonprofit project and client receives the same benefit and standard as any client. Stellar Blue’s core is about giving back. www.stellarbluetechnologies.com 920.931.4250

Fox Cities Business November 2015

A New Brand Telling Our Story

Workforce & Talent

Talent Upload is a three-day immersive event designed

Public Policy

As the Chamber team talks with employers every day, they understand the development of top talent through education, workforce recruitment and retention of existing workforce is a daily goal. The Chamber plays a critical role in helping its stakeholders achieve this goal. The Chamber has a series of programs that address the short-term and long-term talent and workforce needs of the Fox Cities. It works with businesses and industries seeking quality, skilled workers and with individuals wanting to strengthen and grow their leadership skills. Celebrating a milestone is the Your Future 8th Grade Career Expo. Now in its 10th year, the Expo provides approximately 3,000 local students with an experiential, hands-on trade show-like event to explore the variety of careers available in the Fox Cities and beyond. It’s never too early to start thinking about the future workforce. Join the Chamber for the annual oneday event that continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of young citizens as they transition into high school.

to proactively recruit talent for future workforce. Its mission is to familiarize college students from around the Midwest with the Fox Cities community, its top employers, and the limitless career paths available here. High-tech employers in the Fox Cities depend on high-quality talent to meet current needs and facilitate future growth. Talent Upload is the matchmaker, giving students an opportunity to explore life as a young professional in the Fox Cities and employers a chance to engage them before they enter this ultra-competitive market.

As the foremost advocacy organization for businesses in the Fox Cities, the Chamber actively works to promote and cultivate a thriving business climate while protecting and advancing the interest of the members and the community as a whole. The Fox Cities Chamber works in conjunction with citizens, businesses, educational and governmental partners to provide a positive business environment and improve the quality of life in the Fox Valley. The annual event hosted by Public Policy is the Legislative Dialogue Breakfast with local and state-wide legislators at the local, state and federal level. Back by popular demand are every-other-month Lunch ‘N Learn programs focusing on unique perspectives of public policy.

Your Future Fox Cities is a student-

The Fox Cities Chamber (Chamber), actively works to promote and cultivate a thriving business climate while protecting and advancing the interest of the members and the community. In conjunction with businesses, educational leaders, governmental partners, and active community members, the Chamber provides a positive business environment.

“Over the last few years, the Chamber embarked on a journey of introspection and revitalization.

driven adult-supported online platform designed to engage the future workforce through career-based learning opportunities such as but not limited to job shadows, internships and youth apprenticeships. The site allows students to explore their passion and develop soft skills as they take ownership of their career aspirations.

We asked questions of our members, stakeholders and community leaders. We listened to their feedback, as well as researched national, state and local trends. We found needs for new innovative programming that is solution-based,” shares Shannon Full, President/CEO. Out of this process the Chamber was able to set the tone and focus on its mission to promote growth and prosperity, develop innovative programs and events, and to work toward being the convener with community stakeholders (partners, investors, members). The Chamber is a more collaborative leader alongside their stakeholders. In June, the Chamber launched a fresh new identity with a logo rebrand, added a new brand family and website. The new look was designed to reflect and communicate the individual identities of each event, program and division while allowing the Chamber to better articulate the breadth of impact in the community. Many business and community members, as well as Chamber members are unfamiliar with the programming offered. Full continues, “This is an opportunity to intentionally brand all of the programs and events organized by the Chamber. It helps us articulate who we are and what we are doing across the many communities we serve.” The programs and events are examples of the services the Chamber provides to all stakeholders. The many programs and events create and enhance awareness of the Chamber and generate brand energy and showcase the Chamber’s work “in action.”

Fox Cities Business November 2015

Pulse Young Professionals Network is a leadership building opportunity for young professionals to cultivate professional and social interests. Through monthly events, Pulse members can engage in programs and activities that connect peers, provide professional development opportunities, and develop their community. The Chamber’s Leadership Fox Cities program is now in its 25th year. Leadership Fox Cities equips talented professionals with leadership skills with training that will enhance their ability to be more effective leaders. It is a hands-on, nine-month program that broadens participants’ knowledge of community issues, and equips them with leadership skills to seek solutions to the issues affecting the Fox Cities community. Each year, the program graduates 35 – 40 business leaders who are interested in improving the quality of life for all citizens.

Increasing Member Visibility Sponsorship opportunities enable stakeholders to unlock greater value from their membership with a brand partnership connected to the Chamber’s many events and programs. Sponsorship provides brand partners with new ways to engage with peers while growing the potential value of their industry position. Sponsorship opportunities include traditional golf outings, business and individual awards programs, business EXPO, CEO Breakfast, Economic Outlook Breakfast and Business Connections. New to the mix are more creative events including Cultivate and America’s Pitch Tank. Many do not realize that Octoberfest is an event of the Chamber. Octoberfest is a community-driven support system for not-for-profits. Each not-for-profit booth that sells food at Octoberfest uses their profits to support their community project. Some of them view Octoberfest as their major fundraiser for the year. The Chamber estimates that more than 2.5 million dollars have been reinvested in the community as a result of Octoberfest. The 35th anniversary will be celebrated in 2016.

LEADERSHIP FOX CITIES

Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce new logo. Above: Judy Dillenburg of Coalesce Marketing works on designing the Chamber’s new logo.

A PROGRAM OF

Fox Cities Regional Partnership A Wisconsin Business Powerhouse Job creation and economic development are at the forefront of the Chamber’s agenda for the foreseeable future in Northeast Wisconsin. Most importantly, the focus for efforts is increasingly regional in scope and involves the active support of major stakeholders in a truly collaborative approach. In 2011, a community assessment commissioned from Garner Economics, LLC recommended the formation of a regional economic development organization to address the job creation needs of the region. The resulting Garner Report included an economic development strategic plan, structural program, and budget recommendations. Based on these findings, the Fox Cities Regional Partnership was formed in 2012 as a division of the Fox Cities Chamber.

Member Resources Whether members are looking for opportunities to connect with other business-minded people, or gain exposure for their business, Chamber membership makes it happen. Active, engaged members find the most value in their membership. The Fox Cities Chamber membership provides the opportunity to network at no cost at monthly Business Connections. Membership in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce provides access to the Chamber’s affinity program, and access to key information on public policy issues affecting business. As the Chamber evolves its programs and events, the realization on the importance to be a storyteller is clear. The Chamber will continue telling its story and help its many stakeholders understand the importance of raising their visibility in the community.

PULSE young professionals network

A PROGRAM OF

YOURVOICE Advocating for pro-business policy in the Fox Cities

E CO N O M I C

O U T LO O K

BREAKFAST

TALENT

COLLABORATIVE

MEMBER

SERVICES

Concierge

PLUS Fox Cities Business November 2015

Their CBL process is student-driven and adult-supported, requiring parents, local businesses and educators to all work together as students take ownership of their future career aspirations. Rita O’Brien, Dean of Career Based Learning at AASD, stated, “Students need to understand who they are while experiencing opportunities that will allow them to find their passion. In the AASD we want all students to graduate with a dynamic ACP that will evolve from experiences, both in and out of school.” CBL experiences take place in the classroom, a business setting or an employer’s jobsite. These experiences allow students to better connect classroom learning to career awareness, career exploration and career planning activities that help students reach competencies such as positive work attitudes and employability skills.

Career-based

LEARNING

Preparing the Future Workforce The talk around talent is not an unfamiliar one for businesses in today’s world. Not only is it important to understand today’s talent needs and demands, but it is critical to ensure the future workforce generation is readily prepared to take on the world. The reality is, many jobs demand more than an academic degree and credentials, but also skills that are developed through training and onthe-job experiences. Employers are looking to hire individuals that display positive social skills such as self-respect and reliability as well as “soft skills” which include: effective communication, problem solving, conflict resolution and teamwork. Career-based learning (CBL) is an instructional strategy and key component to bridge the gap between education and business, and it is a valuable way to prep the future workforce. Furthermore, the Wisconsin State Legislature, has mandated that all schools implement Academic and Career Plans (ACP’s) into the curriculum for the 2017-18 school year for grades 6 through 12. An ACP is an educatorsupported planning process where students actively manage their learning, life and post-high school opportunities. All students will be personally responsible for developing his/her ACP. Student ownership ensures the career options and activities align with each student’s personal interests and abilities. Coaching, encouraging, and constructive critique are expected from parents, teachers and mentors. ACP’s provide a solid foundation for all students to be successful in their chosen path post-graduation. Career-based learning provides aid and enhances the ACP mandate by allowing students to be exposed, both in and outside of school, to

Fox Cities Business November 2015

various career opportunities, which connect personal interests and talents to academic success. Schools throughout the Fox Cities are infusing CBL experiences into their curriculum to help students prepare for and understand things they like and dislike as they embark on their journey after graduation. Students connect with industry and community professionals to experience real-world situations in order to learn about careers, education and training requirements, identify career interests and aptitudes while identifying a process to their future success. An example in the Fox Cities is evident within the Appleton Area School District (AASD). AASD was selected as a pilot school for implementing ACP’s and is focusing efforts on the development of career-based learning to allow their students to develop selfawareness and a personalized plan.

Career conversations ramp up in middle school and into high school as students are immersed in discussions for life after graduation. In order to be best prepared for these conversations and to develop their paths to future success, students explore a variety of opportunities that are available today and that will be in demand in the years to come when they enter the workforce. Cyndi Dechant, Appleton North High School Marketing Instructor, has made profound efforts to get students connected to real-world experiences. The Willems Student Marketing Team (WSMT) was created to expose students to on-the-job, real-world experiences where students have the ability to work with Willems Marketing in downtown Appleton. The students work directly on a portfolio of projects that provide tangible examples of professional experience. Most recently, WSMT students worked on a multitude of projects for Mile of Music 3.

Former student, Blake Ebben credits the Willems Student Marketing Team for preparing him for post-high school success by gaining valuable information about possible career choices, establishing a professional network of contacts and refining time management skills. Read more about Blake’s story on the next page. The Talent Collaborative, a division of the Fox Cities Chamber, focuses efforts on addressing talent challenges to make our region as prosperous as it can be today and in the future.

“The Talent Collaborative plays a vital role in bridging the gap among education and the workforce to provide students with valuable hands-on experiences in order for students to better understand future career options,” said Patty Milka, VP of Talent and Education at the Fox Cities Chamber. Among the many resources, programs and events offered through the Talent Collaborative is the Your Future 8th Grade Career Expo. During this one-day event, approximately 2,800 area 8th grade students are exposed to a variety of careers through trade show-like exhibits. In order to connect students to career-based learning experiences, the Talent Collaborative and its technology partner Omni Resources, developed Your Future Fox Cities. This innovative online platform was created to streamline connections for cultivating career-based learning experiences among students, educators and business professionals. The program efficiently provides a student-driven system for businesses to attract the next generation workforce through job shadows, informational interviews, business tours, classroom presentations and more. Exploration and exposure to the vast array of career opportunities is critical to engaging and preparing students for jobs in demand. Career-based learning bridges the gap among business and education and is key to equipping the future workforce for success. Get involved and register today to engage the future workforce on Your Future Fox Cities (www.yourfuturefoxcities.com) to begin connecting with students and educators to fulfill career-based learning experiences. Please contact Patty Milka or Emily Feagles at the Fox Cities Chamber for more information – (920) 734-7101.

“Students need to understand how to apply what they learn and the Fox Cities has many community members and resources available to help students make valuable future career connections,” stated Dechant.

A PROGRAM OF

Fox Cities Business November 2015

Spotlight on

For Those Once in A Lifetime

SUCCESS

ACHIEVEMENTS

A PROGRAM OF

Blake Ebben Appleton North High School Graduate, Class of 2015 The energy from Blake Ebben is evident as he describes his recent career-based learning experience. As a high school senior, Ebben was an intern on the Willems Student Marketing Team for the 2014-2015 school year. (Learn more about the WSMT through the QR code below.) Per Ebben, the program is unlike anything else and has prepared him for post-high school success in a variety of ways. “Having the opportunity to work closely with industry leaders and business professionals creates a learning environment for all parties involved,” states Ebben. “You can explore your strengths and learn how to become an effective leader while in a business environment.” Ebben gives credit to the network of professional contacts that he’s developed throughout the experience. “A significant takeaway from my experience is how to network and leverage connections.” These contacts led to his fulltime summer internship at Huzzard Systems in Appleton.

Ebben noted how important it is for the community to know the benefits of career-based learning for students. He encourages other students to take a chance and participate in career-based learning experiences.

Original art-glass custom awards. One of a kind.

“You have to put yourself out there and trust in the foundation you’ve established throughout your educational career to make the most of these opportunities,” said Ebben. “As a student you get valuable information about possible career choices. Business professionals can also learn about the true talent within our schools and how we can all work together to accomplish unprecedented goals and success.” Blake Ebben’s contact info: Ebben1029@gmail.com www.linkedin.com/pub/blake-ebben/84/990/536

The program allowed him to refine time management skills by juggling homework, participating in community projects, volunteering, and spending time with friends and family while also launching a new student organization in his high school with classmate Keshawn Henning. (Stand Up, a program established to spread the message to end domestic violence, was launched in October 2014.)

25 Years of Leadership Fox Cities With the 25th class of Leadership Fox Cities in full swing, we are getting ready to celebrate next summer! We have a few questions for the alumni: - Do you have a favorite memory from your LFC experience? - What parts of the community did you get involved in as a result of LFC? - Have you stayed in contact with your classmates? - What advice would you give to others who are looking to participate? Scan this QR code to provide your answers as we build up to the 25th celebration.

A business award as outstanding as the individual who receives it.

Making the decision to attend UW Oshkosh after graduation was a simple choice for Ebben. “The WSMT Internship allowed me to establish a network of connections throughout the Fox Cities that I can eventually utilize for career and volunteer opportunities down the road.”

Full-page ad

Scan this QR code to learn more about the Willems Student Marketing Team.

LEADERSHIP FOX CITIES

EXECUTIVE

Leadership Fox Cities Executive is dedicated to the development of C-level and VP-level senior management that have been recently recruited to the area and their spouse or guest. This program is a condensed version of our very popular, traditional LFC program, and assists new recruits and their families with making immediate and lasting connections within the community. Apply online at:

applications.foxcitieschamber.com/leadership-fox-cities-executive

WILD APPLE

Art Glass Studio 210 Main Street • Menasha, WI 920 886-6636 wildapple@new.rr.com

LEADERSHIP FOX CITIES A PROGRAM OF

Fox Cities Business November 2015

“Smart Girls Rock” interview session where Neenah High School freshman and sophomore girls rotated meeting with a different mentor every five minutes.

Networking during the September Business Connection hosted by UW Fox Valley

The Fox Cities Chamber presented an Octoberfest check to The History Museum at the Castle for their exhibition, Shifting Gears: A Cyclical History of Badger Cycling!

Appleton Mayor Tim Hannah, Kaukauna Mayor Gene Rosin, and Neenah Mayor Dean Kaufert shared their experiences and stories surrounding the question if it’s possible for government to run like a business during the CEO of the City Lunch n’ Learn.

Enjoying this year’s Business Trifecta!

Over 70 Neenah High School freshman & sophomore girls teamed up with female professionals throughout the Fox Valley in the inaugural “Smart Girls Rock” event on October 20.

Planet Fitness Ribbon Cutting in October for their new East Appleton club.

Fox Cities Business November 2015

Plenty of cars lined College Avenue this year for License to Cruise.

For many vendors at Octoberfest, this is their main fundraising event all year. The Talent Collaborative facilitated Kimberly School District’s in-service day of professional development on October 22. Accepting an award during the Business Awards Ceremony!

Taking some practice shots during the Pulse FIT golf outing.

All smiles and fun during the golf outing this summer!

Keller recently added onto their office building in Kaukauna and hosted a dedication to police personal by raising a flag in honor of their special community members.

Talent Collaborative, a division of the Fox Cities Chamber coordinated the professional development for the staff at Kimberly High School that took place October 22nd.

A group of bar staff helping out at this year’s Octoberfest.

The Trout Museum of Art was presented an Octoberfest Grant.

Stretch break during the Leadership Fox Cities Retreat at the Ostoff!

The official tapping of the keg with Appleton Mayor Tim Hanna and Fox Cities Chamber President, Shannon Full was new this year at Octoberfest.

Face painting, bouncy slides, fire trucks, and a magic show completed the family fun area at Octoberfest.

Another successful business connection hosted at Waverly Beach!

Fox Cities Business November 2015

YOURVOICE Advocating for pro-business policy in the Fox Cities

Blame it on testosterone if you wish, but women don’t like promoting themselves, even when they want more responsibility and greater leadership. Women feel that their bosses should be able to identify talent and a woman’s contribution and promote her based on her accomplishments.

Women A Driving Force

Apparently we do have some inherent bias toward the way women should act. Yale Psychologist, Victoria Brescoll found that male executives who spoke more often than their peers were rated ten percent higher in competence, while female executives were rated fourteen percent lower in competence, by both men and women!

Why YOUR company needs more women in leadership By Ellen Voie CAE, President/CEO Women In Trucking, Inc. The Women In Trucking Association mission includes encouraging the employment of women working in the trucking industry. We understand that there is a need for professional drivers, and women are underrepresented in this area, but what about women in management? Your company should strive for more women in leadership roles. Not because it’s the right thing to do, but because it affects your bottom line. Pepperdine University found a correlation between high-level female executives and business success. The Harvard Business Review reported firms with the best records for promoting women outperform industry medians with overall profits thirty four percent higher. Catalyst research found that companies with the highest representation of women leaders financially outperform, on average, companies with the lowest. According to the department of labor, women only comprise fourteen percent of management roles in transportation. Consider that women make up nearly half the labor force, more than half of all bachelor’s degrees, and over fifty percent of management roles on average. Why is the trucking industry lagging in diversity? There are many reasons that can be attributed to the scarcity of women in the C-Suite, but here are a few things to consider when hiring and promoting women at your company. First, remember that women don’t need “fixing.” What does that mean? Don’t expect women to act like men. Often diversity is about making minorities feel comfortable with the norm. Picture a female airline pilot in a man’s suit and tie and you’ll understand what this means. Many women feel as if they need to act like men to get ahead. In a study by the British telecommunications firm, 02, twenty five percent of women felt this to be true, and wore slacks instead of skirts so they would be treated seriously.

Fox Cities Business November 2015

“The closer that America comes to fully employing the talents of all its citizens, the greater the output of goods and services will be.” Warren Buffett The same study found that half of the women were afraid to show their true emotions at work, and one quarter of the women felt they needed to be ruthless to get respect. Women avoid power structures and hierarchy, according to Deborah Tannen, in “Talking 9 to 5: Women and Men at Work.” Tannen found that women do not enjoy self-promotion. In fact, a Princeton University Press article states that women do not negotiate salaries or benefits as often as men. A Proctor & Gamble study found that men typically oversell their abilities while women undersell theirs. Or, as Wittenberg-Cox and Maintland state in, “Why Women Mean Business,” men who want power push for it, while women often need to be coaxed. Research by Hewlett Packard found that men would apply for a position when they feel they meet sixty percent of the requirements, while women wait to apply when they believe they meet 100 percent of the criteria.

How can your company ensure greater diversity and avoid some of these limiting practices? Value women’s contributions (team building, collaboration) and reconsider what characteristics you are looking for in a leader. Create a gender-neutral environment, and identify and promote more women into management roles. Make your current CEO team accountable for promoting women and set targets for future hires and promotions. When possible, offer networking and mentoring opportunities for the women in your current and future management team. Make sure your current female leaders are visible as well. You know that creating a more diverse leadership team is the right thing to do and you know that it can increase your company’s profits as well. Let’s see if we can move beyond fourteen percent in the coming year and change the image of the trucking industry into one more welcoming for women. Ellen Voie CAE, President/CEO Women In Trucking, Inc. P O Box 400, Plover, WI 54467 Direct phone 920-312-1350 womenintrucking.org

Advocating For Your Business In Different Ways By Mark Rahmlow While some businesses have government relations staff to monitor legislation and offer guidance on navigating government agencies, there are many more small and mid-size businesses that do not have the ability to hire someone to help them with government issues. Those employers are focused on keeping their businesses running, making products, finding customers and hiring employees to help them fulfill their primary mission. As the Vice President of Public Policy with the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce, my top priority is to advocate for the business community in a couple different ways. First, the Fox Cities Chamber supports the legislative agenda of the Northeast Wisconsin Chamber Coalition. This agenda outlines regional positions on a myriad of issues ranging from tax and regulatory policy to health care to economic development. As important as it is to advocate for regional priorities, it is equally important to have an agenda that reflects the values and priorities of businesses here in the Fox Cities. Upon arriving here, I worked with the Fox Cities Chamber Government Issues Council (a group representing many sectors in the Fox Cities) to establish an agenda that included supporting a stable and long-term funding solution for transportation projects, creating a stable source of revenue for local transit providers, enhancing the Wisconsin Fast Forward program by allowing apprenticeship and youth apprenticeship programs to be eligible for grants, and calling for a multi-year authorization for FAA which will in turn support the operation of the local airport. Those are just some of the public policy highlights. I have also spent my first few months at the chamber connecting with employers throughout the Fox Cities to learn about their business and any issues they may be following at the local, state or federal level. By spending time with area businesses, I am able to better advocate for this region and help find solutions, hopefully, in real time. Recently, a local manufacturer noted that they were having some issues navigating a government agency. The company has locations in two different lawmaker’s districts, and requested some assistance in connecting with their elected officials. I reached out to the district staff in both offices and coordinated a meeting with the business. In the days following the initial meeting, I kept in contact with the company and again invited them to a chamber forum where one of the lawmakers was appearing so they could discuss the issue with their representative in-person. While the issue in question will probably require legislation, I have been able to advise the company on how to interact with their elected official, explain the legislative process, and serve as a link between the business and their lawmaker to ensure the lines of communication remain open. As business owners encounter issues involving federal, state and local policies, one of my main goals is to help connect them with the right resources. As always, if I can be a resource to any of our members, or if you would like to simply have a coffee to chat so I can learn about your operation, I am happy to make myself available to you. Please feel free to contact me anytime at mrahmlow@foxcitieschamber.com or 920-734-7101 x103. Mark Rahmlow is currently the Vice President of Public Policy.

Fox Cities Business November 2015

2016 Public Policy SAVE THE DATE February 15th, 2016 New Chamber Coalition Legislative Dialogue Breakfast Bridgewood Resort & Hotel • 1000 Cameron Way, Neenah, WI • 7:30am-9:30am Last year, nearly 180 business and community leaders gathered to hear a legislative update from U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson and State Assemblyman John Nygren about issues at the federal and state level respectively. Plus the annual breakfast provided a forum to ask those legislative leaders questions relevant to the local business community. February 24th, 2016 Business Day in Madison Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center • 1 John Nolen Dr, Madison, WI • 7:30am-4:00pm Business Day 2015 was a huge success with 1,200 WI business leaders on-hand to hear from nationally recognized speakers, and also provided an opportunity to meet directly with state lawmakers and let them know about current business trends. June 13th-15th, 2016 US Chamber Small Business Summit 2016 • Washington, D.C. Join more than 800 business owners and chamber executives from across the country in Washington D.C. on June 13-15, 2016 to network, hear from business and policy experts, and tell Congress what your business needs to succeed. The action packed event will feature high caliber keynotes, small group breakout sessions, business-to-business matchmaking workshops, and a variety of other networking opportunities.

DIAMOND MEMBER

Honor Roll September - November 2015

Diamond Members are companies that have supported the Chamber and community for more than 40 years. We’d like to express our gratitude to the following Diamond Member businesses for their membership and support to the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce.

Company

Member since

Air Wisconsin Airlines Corporation

10/1/1965

Appleton Lathing Corporation

9/1/1973

Avis Rent A Car Corporate Office

10/1/1963

BMO Harris Bank

11/1/1966

Brennan-Fraser Roofing & Siding Co., Inc. 9/1/1962

Success

EVENTS & Sponsorships

Your community helped you achieve it.

DECEMBER

Want to give back?

We can show you how.

CMY

920-830-1290 cffoxvalley.org info@cffoxalley.org

Fox Cities Business November 2015

Pulse FIT Fitness in Theory Ugly Sweater Volleyball Party Friday, December 4, 2015 GameDay Sports Bar

Business Connection Tuesday, December 15, 2015 Fidelity Bank

Welcome

NEW MEMBERS The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce relies on its members to continue its work in promoting business interests in the Fox Cities region. Without these committed members, the Chamber would not be able to provide the high quality services it is known for. Adashun Jones Real Estate

Neenah Enterprises, Inc.

520 Van Roy Road Appleton, WI 54915-4053 (920) 202-8360 www.adashunjones.com REAL ESTATE - BUYER’S BROKER

2121 Brooks Avenue Neenah, WI 54956-4756 (920) 725-7000 www.neenahenterprises.com MANUFACTURER

Appleton Housing Authority

Oak Park Place

925 W. Northland Avenue Appleton, WI 54914-1422 (920) 739-6811 www.appletonhousing.org GOVERNMENT - GENERAL

2205 Midway Road Menasha, WI 54952-7011 (920) 702-0000 www.oakparkplace.com ASSISTED LIVING

ASC Wealth & Retirement Advisors, LLC

The Fine Fox

5583 Waterford Lane, Suite A Appleton, WI 54913-8441 (920) 735-9800 www.ascwealth.com WEALTH MANAGEMENT SERVICES

214 W. Wisconsin Avenue Neenah, WI 54956-2502 (920) 659-0833 www.finefoxneenah.com ART GALLERY

Carpetland U.S.A.

10/1/1971

Community First Credit Union

10/1/1975

Golper Supply Co., Inc.

11/1/1965

Fox Valley Lutheran Homes, Inc.

U.S. Army Recruiting Center - Appleton

Goodwill Industries of North Central Wisconsin (NCW)

11/1/1973

Great Northern Corporation

9/1/1961

425 N. Linwood Avenue, #111 Appleton, WI 54914-3470 (920) 734-7225 www.fvlhomes.org RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

3436 W. College Avenue Appleton, WI 54914-3918 (920) 882-7280 www.goarmy.com GOVERNMENT - GENERAL

Master Fleet

Visiting Angels

455 N. Green Bay Road, Building #2 Neenah, WI 54956-2076 (920) 725-7577 http://www.master-fleet.com TRANSPORTATION

3405 Commerce Court, Suite F Appleton, WI 54911-8440 (920) 644-0390 www.visitingangels.com HOME CARE

Mr Brews Taphouse

Xpressive Apparel

201 S. RiverHeath Way, Suite 1100 Appleton, WI 54915-8505 (920) 815-3516 www.mrbrewstaphouse.com/locations/appleton-wi RESTAURANTS

907 Oregon Street Oshkosh, WI 54902-6454 (920) 233-4643 www.xpressiveapparel.com EMBROIDERY

Integrity Mutual Insurance Company

9/1/1962

Kelly Services, Inc.

10/1/1975

La Quinta Inn & Suites

10/1/1962

Manpower, Inc.

9/1/1965

Modern Business Machines

9/1/1965

Pace Corporation

11/1/1974

PDI Financial Group

9/1/1975

Wisconsin Distributors Appleton, LLC

10/1/1973

My Retreat Design LLC 690 N. Westhill Blvd. Appleton, WI 54914-5783 (920) 935-3276

Fox Cities Business November 2015

Ask a Your Place on the Water

What has been your biggest benefit in joining PULSE?

“As someone who is new to the Fox Cities (3-year vet) I appreciate having a place to meet others who share the same passion within their profession as well as the desire to see our community grow. I’ve met friends, gained inspiration, and built business relationships through Pulse. Without it, I wouldn’t know half of the lovely people I’ve met while living here.”

Alison Suski

“Personally, I joined Pulse to meet other young professionals and hangout. I’m so glad I decided to join! Professionally, Pulse has been great for my professional development and networking. Networking used to make me extremely nervous, but now I can handle it. Pulse has also helped me become more involved in the community by leading me to volunteer opportunities and connections to events.”

Claire Westlie

Waterfront

PULSE young professionals network

A PROGRAM OF

“I enjoy collaborating with this large group of young professionals, and how the organization brings together young, motivated individuals from a wide range of professional areas. Whether an event is designed for a goalfocused purpose, to build awareness, business development, educationbased, or simply to socialize, I appreciate the non-traditional opportunities the organization provides to be surrounded by likeminded, ambitious young people who have the same goals and ambitions as myself. Pulse has allowed me to expand my network in a creative and meaningful way.”

Jenny Vanden Heuvel

Development Opportunities

Downtown Real Estate Available

Contact Greg Keil Community Development Director 920-967-3650

Fox Cities Business November 2015

TIPS TOOLS &Techniques

Securing Your Credit Card Transactions Beginning October 1, 2015, major card networks agreed to shift financial responsibility for losses due to counterfeit card-present fraud to the party using the least secure technology. Merchants that want to avoid this liability should implement EMV chip technology in their point-of-sale (POS) devices as soon as possible. The EMV chip is a secure microprocessor built into a card or other payment devices (e.g. mobile wallet on a smartphone). The chip generates a unique number

for each sales transaction, making it extremely difficult to use a cloned card fraudulently on a cardpresent transaction. Magnetic stripe cards use static cardholder data that remains the same for every transaction, which makes them attractive targets for theft, cloning and use in card fraud. In addition to strong security features, chip technology includes other capabilities like Near Field Communications (NFC) technology, which lets merchants accommodate both contact and contactless payments. Cellcom is partnered with point-of-sale provider DataCom to provide business customers a secure way of processing electronic card transactions using the latest EMV and cellular technology. To learn more about what’s available, contact Cellcom at www. cellcom.com/m2mcontact. Cellcom is an innovative wireless company that provides nationwide service for its customer base throughout Wisconsin and Michigan, with nearly 70 retail and agent locations. Cellcom is respected for its long-standing reputation of delivering extraordinary customer care, being a strong community partner, and for its renowned network which is customized to its rural markets. As a subsidiary of Nsight, Cellcom is part of a family of companies offering complete telecommunications services.

Thank You To The Businesses That Made This Year’s EVENT Possible Presenting Sponsor

Premium Sponsor

It’s a great time to be part of THE FOX CITIES CHAMBER When you invest in the Chamber, you invest in the success of the entire Fox Cities region. Our program of work targets: • economic development • talent attraction, retention and expansion • advocating for pro-business public policy • opportunities to improve your visibility and build your network The resources the Chamber offers are only getting better and more dialed in as our understanding of business needs deepens. We accomplish this through constant conversations with our members. For more information about ways to connect, grow and develop, contact us at foxcitieschamber.com or reach out directly to Leah Schapiro by email: lschapiro@foxcitieschamber.com or by phone 920.734.7101 x120.

“The Fox Cities Chamber is one of the key partners in my business model. I am able to attend events with the exact people with whom I would like to do business. When comparing my membership in the Chamber to (other) advertisement options, I must say, I am getting an incredible return on my investment.” Emilie Steinmann, Owner, Ooh, Shiny! Art Glass “When I go to a Business Connection I have a room full of friends. Now, that doesn’t mean that they all know that we are friends, but the environment is comfortable and that’s really important. You really want to get to know people.” - Jennifer Popek, Senior Banker, Associated Bank

Executive Sponsor

Contributing Sponsors AT&T The Boldt Company Coldwell Banker the Real Estate Group Fox Banquets Rivertyme Catering Kimberly-Clark

Fox Cities Business November 2015

Miron Construction Network Health SECURA ThedaCare Thrivent Financial Woodward Communications

Fox Cities Business November 2015

fox cities chamber

PERIODICAL

POSTAGE

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Fox Cities Chamber Business C/o Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc. 125 N. Superior Street Appleton, WI 54911

PAID

AT APPLETON, WI