In This Issue
The opportunities and events are heating up!
August 2025
From The Desk Of The CEO
August Already? Let's Soak It All In
Is it just me, or did July blink by in the flash of a fireworks show? It feels like summer just got started, and here we are stepping into August with full calendars and exciting energy.
Make the most of the Summer!
Upcoming Events
Deidre Martinez
At the Chamber, our team has been buzzing— welcoming new faces and wishing the best to those moving on to new adventures. We've had the joy of engaging with our summer interns and co-op students, helping them explore all that Sheboygan County has to offer beyond their work experiences. Whether it's trying out a local favorite for lunch or connecting with community leaders, we're proud to be part of the journey that shapes their personal and professional growth.
August is shaping up to be one of our businest, and most rewarding, months. We're thrilled to host our Annual Workforce Development Symposium on Wednesday, August 20, at Pine Hills Country Club. We've lined up an inspiring group of speakers, and we're especially excited to celebrate the incredible educators and business champions of education who make our community stronger. These partners and collaborators make magic happen, and we're always honored when we get the chance to shine a spotlight on them.
And if you're looking to enjoy some sunshine and good company before summer winds down, don't forget — our Annual Golf Outing is just around the corner! We have very limited space left for golfers and only a few sponsorship remaining. This event is a sell-out every year for a reason — it's a fantastic day of fun, networking, and visibility for your business, all wrapped into one.
So, while the days may be getting a little shorter, there's still plenty of summer fun (and impact) ahead. We're grateful to walk alongside such incredible partners in business, education, and community. Let's keep building, celebrating, and showing the
YP's NIGHT OUT: Midwest Challenge Kickoff
Sheboygan City Green
August 8 | 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
MAXIMIZE YOUR MEMBERSHIP
Sheboygan County Chamber
August 13 | 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
YP Out to Dinner Series Taverne on Woodlake August 13 | 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Ribbon cutting Dahl Automotive
August 14 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Workforce Development Symposium
Pine Hills Country Club
August 20 | 7:30 PM - 11:00 AM
Ribbon Cutting
Apex Homes Building & Development
August 21 | 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
Annual Chamber Golf Outing
Quit Qui Oc Golf Club
August 27| 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
world why Sheboygan County truly is better together.
See you soon!
John Rogers - Business Roundtables Facilitator
Value Added — Yes, the roundtables do this!
During my paper industry days, I saw clear examples of 'value added'. A few of the most memorable examples were on a tissue machine that was producing a 'parent roll' that was 30 feet wide at 10,000 feet a minute. I do not recall the diameter of the roll. But, the roll (maybe 15 feet in diameter) was then conveyed to converting machines where that parent roll was cut into logs that were then cut into toilet paper rolls for wrapping in see-through plastic so it could ultimately be put on a store shelf for purchase. Every step in the process added value.
This week, my email included 2 examples of why the Chamber’s peer group roundtables are ‘Value Added’ events. The first example was from a person who attended a Safety Manager roundtable earlier in the year asking for help in solving a dilemma at his plant. The response was very quick from one Safety Manager to another.
The second example occurred today in response to the invitation/ reminder sent for the HR Managers roundtable on August 12. One of the ground rules of the roundtables is that if you have a question others can answer, you send it so participants can think about it in advance. Moments ago, I received an email from an HR Manager unable to attend the roundtable but with a suggested answer to one of the questions.
Are those 2 situations clear examples of Better Together and Value Added? I think so. Attend a Chamber roundtable – there are 8 different versions – to see for yourself how your peers can help you with suggestions and ideas on how to deal with the challenge you bring.
Be certain to read The Buzz every Monday for the link to Upcoming Roundtables. Do you have questions? Send them to Anna@Sheboygan.org or John@Sheboygan.org
John Rogers
Upcoming Roundtables
Sales & Marketing: Mon. August 4 | 11:30 AM
Non-Profit: Wed. August 6 | 7:30 AM
Safety: Thur. August 7 | 7:30 AM
Business Owner: Mon. August 11 | 7:15 AM
HR Managers: Tue. August 12 | 7:30 AM
Anna Toman - Director Of Membership Development
Hello Members!
We just finished up the latest membership drive: Grillin & Growin’ at the Chamber. Business in Sheboygan definitely requires a brat in hand. We gave these attendees a taste of Chamber membership: an overview of their benefits, valuable connections... and a couple of brats as well! Our unique community continues to bring hardworking, BIG IDEA-type members to Your Chamber who are looking to seek support from our current membership and support you as well. I’m constantly appreciative of how well we all support each other.
Please welcome our July members!
• Houdani, LLC
• Anytime Fitness, Sheboygan
• Wisconsin Early Autism Project
• The Barns at Found
• Bay & Landing at Elkhart Lake
• Innovative Solutions for Business
• Apex Homes, Building and Development, LLC
At the Sheboygan County Chamber the end of summer is marked by our Annual Golf Outing on the last Wednesday in August. We have 216 golfers in attendance+ plus volunteers! It’s a fun day in the sun, and I cannot wait! We have some great sponsorships still availableincluding the BIG DADDY of all sponsorships: the Platinum Sponsorship. Go to this LINK to review all the options for Golf Outing Sponsorships.
Anna Toman
Workforce Development Symposium is also right around the corner. This event will be a wonderful place for both the education sector and business sector to collaborate on developing Sheboygan's future workforce and retaining that workforce, while gaining a better understanding of different perspectives and potential partnerships in our community. If you are looking to advise your organization at this event, several options of sponsorships are waiting for you! I’d love to share them with you, want to grab a cup of coffee and review the options? Call me at 920-395-8705.
Kristin Bahr - BID Member Services
Director
Summer’s Not Over Yet—Here’s What’s Happening in Harbor Centre
It’s hard to believe, but summer is already winding down! There’s just one week left of 8th Streatery, so don’t miss your chance to enjoy open-air dining and live music in the heart of Downtown Sheboygan. Ian Zempel will be providing musical entertainment this Tuesday, August 12th—grab a bite, sip something cold, and soak in the final week of this summer favorite.
Looking ahead, the Mercury Racing Midwest Challenge returns to the lakefront August 8–10, bringing high-speed action and thousands of visitors to our area. Be prepared for a festive weekend, including a Friday night block party you won’t want to miss.
In the meantime, we’re excited to announce the launch of the Arts & Architecture Walk—a self-guided experience that highlights the creative soul of Sheboygan. As you explore Downtown, the Riverfront, and South Pier, you’ll discover public art, local galleries, and the character-rich spaces that reflect the unique spirit of our community.
And mark your calendars! River Fest returns Saturday, September 20, and the Fall Wine Walk is set for Saturday, October 18. Both events promise fun, flavor, and an opportunity to celebrate all things local. Stay tuned for more details, and we’ll see you around Harbor Centre!
Mallory Black - Program Coordinator
Hello everyone!
I’m excited to introduce myself as the new Program Coordinator here at the Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce. With a background in education and community engagement, I’m passionate about creating meaningful experiences that connect, inspire, and empower local talent.
In my new role, I’ll be overseeing several of our leadership and workforce development programs, including:
• Young Professionals Network
• Intern & Co-Op Summer Program
• Junior Leadership Sheboygan County
• Adult Leadership Sheboygan County
Each of these initiatives plays a key role in supporting personal growth, career development, and community involvement. I am passionate about helping others better themselves in any way and hope you consider inquiring further about these programs!
Please note: Application is still open for Adult Leadership Program. Here is the link to apply! Adult & Junior Leadership Orientation is scheduled for August 14th. Please submit your application by August 11th to be reviewed.
I look forward to meeting many of you at upcoming events and partnering on ways to keep Sheboygan County a vibrant place to live, work, and lead. Please don’t hesitate to reach out as I would love to connect!
mallory@sheboygan.org
Ellie Meyers - Director of Events
As we move through the heart of summer, the Chamber team is hard at work creating opportunities to connect, collaborate, and celebrate our vibrant business community. I’m excited to share a few key events coming up in August that you won’t want to miss!
Ribbon Cutting – Dahl Automotive
Join us on August 14, as we welcome Dahl Automotive to the Chamber with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at each of their 3 Sheboygan locations.
Workforce Development Symposium – August 20
On August 20, we’ll be hosting our annual Workforce Development Symposium. This is a must-attend for employers, educators, and workforce professionals who want to stay ahead of industry trends and find innovative ways to attract and retain talent. Ellie Meyers
Mallory Black
This year's symposium promises engaging speakers, practical takeaways, and valuable conversations focused on strengthening our local workforce pipeline. Here is the planned agenda for the event:
• Wisconsin Economic Development (WEDC) Update by Mike Ward Senior Vice President of Business and Community Development at WED
• Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Update by John KeckhaverSection Chief for Youth Apprenticeship Program at DW
• Local Success of Rocket Academy presented by Superintendent Liz FreemanSuperintendent of Cedar Grove-Belgium School District and Director David Friend -Director of Rocket Academ
• Panel Discussion on the positive impact of Cell Phone Restrictions featuring Michael Trimberger - Random Lake Superintendent, Darin Holden - Camp Anokijig Executive Director, and more
• Wisconsin Policy Forum - Presentation on Wisconsin Could Join Call for Change on Cell Phones in Schools by Mark Sommerhauser- Communications Director/Policy Researcher for the Wisconsin Policy Forum
Please purchase your ticket at sheboygan.org
Annual Golf Outing – August 27
Our ever-popular Chamber Golf Outing is on August 27! This day of friendly competition, networking, and fresh air is one of our favorite traditions. As we prepare for the event, we’re gratefully accepting raffle prize donations. Your contributions help support Chamber scholarships and add excitement to the day. If your business would like to donate, please bring your raffle donation to the chamber office by August 20 at the latest.
Thank you for being an active and engaged part of our Chamber community. Your support makes these events successful and impactful. I look forward to seeing many of you in the coming weeks!
Leah Bischoff - Transition Concierge Specialist
Make Your Mark Momentum
The last few weeks have been full of energy, growth, and incredible connections - all thanks to the continued support of our Make Your Mark partners. From word-of-mouth referrals to thoughtful relocation support, your efforts are creating real impact.
Just a few recent success stories:
• Peter (Quasius) received customized support after connecting through our HR and CEO Roundtables.
Leah Bischoff
• Ethan (SACO) found us through Chamber events and quickly got his family connected to local community resources
• Dr. Qiyante (Boys & Girls Club), attended our July Newcomer Event with her family and is now receiving tailored moving support.
• And we continue to hear heartwarming feedback, like from Mark (SACO) and Saraya (Mead Library), newcomers who found friendship and belonging on day one through our last Newcomer event at The Spices Downtown location.
To keep the momentum going and by popular request, we’ve launched a new video tutorial for hiring managers - how to use Make Your Mark resources to support candidates. Watch on YouTube.
Save the Date: October 2, 2025 – Blue Harbor Career Fair
From morning breakout sessions and free headshots to a vibrant beachside networking hour, this event is all about connection and community. Whether you’re a job seeker, employer, or local champion, there’s a seat for you at the table.
Let’s keep making moments that matter. ��
Jamie Schramm - Director of Programs and Development
Our Chamber’s Spring 2025 Professional Development opportunities were a significant success. As we formulated our Fall 2025 Professional Development Series, we listened to what made an impact and the emerging needs you identified. It continues to be both a pleasure and honor to work alongside your organizations.
Below is the listing of our Fall 2025 Professional Development Series with clickable workshop title links to the registration page. This series is highlighted by the internationally-recognized Crucial Conversations and Integrity Service programs.
If you and your organization are looking for specific or customized professional development opportunities, let’s talk! Feel free to reach out to me at jamie@sheboygan.org or 920-9123495.
Fall 2025 Sheboygan Chamber of Commerce Professional Development Series
Jamie Schramm
Liz Miyashiro - Director of Finance & Operations
Need a Vendor? Look No Further Than Your Fellow Chamber Members
Have you logged into the Chamber's Member Information Center (MIC) lately? If not, August is the perfect time to take advantage of one of its most valuable features—our Request for Proposal (RFP) tool.
Whether you’re updating your signage, pricing out new business cards, replacing an air conditioner, or shopping around for insurance, chances are there’s a trusted Chamber member who can help. And now, finding that vendor is as simple as logging into the portal and submitting a request.
Here’s how it works:
1. Log in to the Member Information Center on our website.
2. Head to the Request for Proposal section.
3. Select the type of business or service you're looking for.
4. Write a short description of your needs—anything from “we're looking for quotes on seasonal window displays” to “in need of IT support for a small office.”
5. 5. Submit—and let the Chamber network do the rest.
Your RFP will be shared directly with relevant member businesses, giving them an opportunity to respond and support you with quotes, ideas, or proposals.
It's a fast, no-pressure way to get connected, compare options, and—most importantly— keep your dollars in the Chamber family. By sourcing services from fellow members, you're helping to strengthen our local economy and deepen relationships across the business community.
So before you hit Google for your next vendor search, ask yourself: Have I checked the Chamber portal?
Need help logging in or want a quick refresher on how the system works? Give us a call or stop by—we’re happy to walk you through it.
Liz Miyashiro
Better Together: Workforce Development Newsletter – August
by Anne Troka, Senior Manager — Community and Workforce Development, Sargento Foods
Sheboygan County continues to thrive when businesses, educators, and community leaders come together to invest in our future workforce. Here are three key opportunities to engage, collaborate, and make an impact.
✅ Final Call: Register for the Workforce Development Symposium
�� Wednesday, August 20, 2025 | ⏰ 7:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. | �� Pine Hills Country Club
Don't miss this dynamic half-day event focused on workforce development efforts at the local, regional, and state levels. The symposium brings together education, business, and community leaders to share ideas and best practices to attract, develop, and retain early and emerging talent.
�� Register here Workforce Development Symposium
�� STEAMFest Returns October 14
�� Monday, October 14, 2025 | ⏰ 9:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. | �� Lakeland University
SteamFest is an exciting opportunity for 5th and 6th grade students to engage in hands-on learning activities led by local employers. Students explore career paths in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math, sparking early interest in Sheboygan County industries.
Businesses are invited to participate by offering a hands-on activity that showcases career opportunities at their company.
�� Register your business to participate STEAMFest
�� Get Involved: Business & Education Partnership (BEP) Committee
Our Business & Education Partnership Committee meets monthly to identify and solve shared challenges between schools and employers related to workforce readiness and student success.
If you're passionate about shaping the talent pipeline and want to be part of the conversation, we'd love to have you at the table.
�� Contact Jamie Schramm to learn more: jamie@sheboygan.org
Together, we are creating the connections that keep Sheboygan County strong, innovative, and future-ready.
July In Review
