Member Matters E-Newsletter

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March 2020 Member Happenings

Ethisphere, a global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices, has announced that Oshkosh Corporation has been named one of the 2020 World’s Most Ethical Companies. Oshkosh Corporation has been recognized five consecutive years and is one of only eight honorees in the industrial manufacturing category. In 2020, 132 honorees were recognized spanning 21 countries and 51 industries.

Tony Goebel, CEO and Founder of 5G Benefits, LLC, received the prestigious Rising Stars in Advising award from the Employee Benefit Advisor (EBA) magazine. The award focuses on a new generation of leaders making a difference in the industry through their innovative and creative ideas on wellness, healthcare and new benefits offerings. Goebel, who started 5G Benefits in 2013, has grown the agency to include over 600 companies, dozens of employees, and physical offices in Green Bay, Oshkosh, and Fond du Lac.

KerberRose is pleased to announce that they have added System and Organization Controls (SOC) reporting to its auditing services and has hired Abe Babler as Information Assurance Manager. With the rise of cloud computing and outsourcing, SOC reports emerged as a way to provide assurance to service organizations and their customers. KerberRose will provide additional value to clients by meeting this growing marketplace demand for assurance with the addition of Babler and the SOC reports. Babler has over 20 years of experience in business, technology and accounting and has previously held positions overseeing SOC operations.

The Fox Valley Workforce Development Board has received a $97,000 grant from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development to serve individuals laid off from retail jobs. In response to this growing trend of online shopping, DWD is providing grants to local workforce boards to cover retraining for individuals who have been laid off from a retail role. This is the second grant the Board received. In 2019, the board received a $64,580 grant which went to helping individuals in similar positions.

Dr. Barbara Herzog of the Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) Board of Education was elected 2nd vice president of the Wisconsin Association of School Boards (WASB) Board of Directors on January 22. She is the representative for WASB Region 7 on the 15-member Board of Directors. The region includes 27 school districts in the Oshkosh area. Herzog holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in education from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and a doctorate in educational administration and adult learning from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Herzog will serve a one-year term as WASB 2nd vice president.

Rhyme is proud to share that their service professionals were recognized with the Office Technology Service Excellence Award from BEI Services Inc. This award is determined through committing to a full audit of individual technicians and overall service department performance by BEI Services Inc. Only companies that have a proven track record of service excellence in areas that relate directly to customer service, machine performance and overall Service Department efficiency are awarded. Rhyme had 16 individuals awarded for their excellence.

Oshkosh Community YMCA Membership Director, Julie Smith, was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of her extraordinary support of her employee and the Y’s Group Exercise Director, Brandy Hankey, whose husband deployed with the Wisconsin Army National Guard. The Patriot Award recognizes individuals who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their service member and military spouse employees, who like the citizen soldiers before them, have answered their nation’s call to serve.

FEBRUARY 2020 Member Happenings

Alro Steel Corporation is excited to announce their plans to move to a larger location in Oshkosh. The new 200,000 square-foot facility at 3970 Poberezny Road will replace Alro’s current 54,000 square-foot facility at 43 E. 10^th Ave. in Oshkosh. The move will allow the company to expand operations and products. Alro Steel plans to move in the next few months, with construction being finished in February 2020.

KerberRose has announced the following new shareholders to their company: Krisztina Dommer, CPA, governmental accounting and auditing; Mary Horton, CPA, small business and individual tax and accounting; Melissa Olsen, PHR/SHRM-CP, human resources; Greg Pitel, CPA, state and local government auditing; Anthony Powers, AIF/CFP/CRPS, wealth management; and Mike Stratman, CPA, tax and business advising. For more information regarding KerberRose and their shareholders, visit www.kerberrose.com.

Omni Glass & Paint is pleased to add Chris Skrobutanas as its new Vice President of Finance. Skrobutanas graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater with a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master degree in Professional Accountancy. He is a certified public accountant and also serves as the treasurer on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Fox Valley region. Skrobutanas will be responsible for the oversight of all accounting and finance operations of Omni Glass & Paint.

Oshkosh Area United Way has launched a new website that focuses on making it easier for individuals and companies to find volunteer opportunities in the Oshkosh community. The newly-launched website features a full range of opportunities for all interests and different skillsets. The website allows users to sign up for volunteer hours, track completed hours, and receive email notifications when new opportunities are posted. Learn more at VolunteerOshkosh.org.

Oshkosh Corporation has announced that David M. Sagehorn, who has served the company as Chief Financial Officer for 12 years, will be retiring in April of 2020. Sagehorn has helped Oshkosh Corporation successfully navigate some of the most pivotal moments in company history, managed through the global financial crisis, and implemented strategies that have helped drive record sales. Michael E. Pack, Vice President of Finance in the Fire & Emergency segment at Oshkosh, will succeed Mr. Sagehorn as Executive Vice president and CFO come April.

The Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh has announced that Tracy Ogden will serve as its new CEO starting at the beginning of 2021. Ogden is currently the club’s vice president and will succeed current CEO Marc Dosogne who plans on retiring at the end of 2020. Ogden has worked with the club for more than a decade, during which she led numerous fundraising and marketing efforts as well as multiple renovations to the Boys & Girls Club building.

 

The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Foundation has been gifted $1.9 million by Dr. Kenneth J. Grieb to establish the Kenneth J. Grieb Professorship. Dr. Grieb was a longtime University of Wisconsin Oshkosh professor who passed away in July of 2018. This endowment is meant to facilitate professional scholarship through the support of research, including research-related travel, research assistance, reproduction costs and other related expenses. For more information, visit uwosh.edu/foundation.

The law firm of von Briesen & Roper, s.c. is excited to announce the election of Susan Lovern as their new President and Chief Executive Officer. Lovern, who chairs the firm’s Commercial and Business Litigation Section, began her legal career at von Briesen 25 years ago as a summer associate. Lovern was named one of Wisconsin’s Top 50 Lawyers in 2019 and has also been repeatedly selected as one of Wisconsin’s Top 25 Women Lawyers. Lovern is the firm’s first woman President and CEO.

January 2020 member happenings

The Oshkosh YMCA is proud to announce the appointment of Jeff Schneider as the new CEO of the Oshkosh Community YMCA. Schneider is an accomplished nonprofit leader with over 32 years of experience and demonstrated commitment to serving the YMCA as well as the community. Schneider has served as the Oshkosh Y’s Youth and Camp Director, Operations Director, and Associate Executive Director throughout his career. Schneider will begin his tenure as CEO starting on January 24, 2020.

Oshkosh Corporation has announced that it has been named one of the “Best Managed Companies of 2019” by the Wall Street Journal. This list is selected based on the overall effectiveness of the company and includes top brand names such as Apple Inc. and Amazon.com Inc. Oshkosh Corporation is ranked 133 of the top 250 and has been a part of this list for three consecutive years. Also, Oshkosh Corporation is proud to announce that Wilson Jones, President and Chief Executive Officer, has earned the 2019 Technical Education Champion award. The award recognizes and celebrates a leader’s commitment to advancing technical education initiatives. Jones was honored and received the award at a recent Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association meeting in Waukesha.

Bayland Buildings, Inc. is pleased to announce that Chad Calmes will be its new Chief Executive Officer. Calmes has previously served as Vice President of Operations, during which Bayland achieved over $100 million in sales, followed by two years as Bayland’s Chief Operating Officer. Calmes began his career with Bayland Buildings in 2000 and is proud to have spent nearly two decades with the company.

Bank First has released the official opening date of its new office on January 6, 2020. The new 6,800 square foot office emulates the contemporary design and efficient use of space similar to other recently-constructed Bank First offices. Bank First plans to celebrate the opening of its new office by hosting a week-long community appreciation event which will include a free gift, prizes and food.

EAA is excited to announce that the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, one of the most popular military demonstration teams in the world, will be returning to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2020.  The Snowbirds are currently scheduled to have a public practice session over the grounds on Friday, July 24, with full performances during the daily afternoon air show on Saturday and Sunday, July 25-26.  The Snowbirds were created in 1971 and have a nearly 50-year connection to EAA, as they were the first military team to perform at EAA during the 1970s.

Rhyme is proud to announce that they have been chosen this year as a 2019 Elite Dealer by ENX Magazine. Winners of this achievement are selected based on their marketing prowess, digital transformation, leadership, work environment, technology, customer service and charitable endeavors. Rhyme will be celebrating 75 years in business in 2020.

Ascension at Home honored Ashlee Pischke, RN, during their recent 4^th quarter DAISY Award ceremony on December 19. The DAISY Award recognizes individuals that put fourth extraordinary compassionate care during their everyday nursing duties. For more information about the DAISY Award and the DAISY Foundation, visit www.daisyfoundation.org.

December 2019 member happenings

Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialists of Wisconsin (ENT) have announced the merger of their two Oshkosh locations into one new facility. Their new Oshkosh facility will incorporate their ENT, Audiology and Hearing Aid Center, Sinus Center, and their Allergy and Asthma Center. ENT now offers six convenient locations throughout the area.

PortSide Builders is excited to announce that Dawn Shefchik will be the newest addition to their team as a Home Selection Designer. She first started assisting PortSide’s clientele in 2005 while working at Custom Tough Interiors as a Design Specialist. Shefchik will serve customers in both Door County and the Fox Valley and will be available to work hands on with customers in order to guide them through the complex home selection process.  

The Oshkosh Area United Way has announced that their new volunteer website will be launched in January. This user-friendly website will be helping promote volunteer opportunities, organizations, or businesses in the Oshkosh area that need volunteer spots filled throughout the year. The website will allow community members to view and sign up for open opportunities on the spot and will be free to use.

The EAA Aviation Center recognized Michel Bryson on November 7 and awarded her the Henry Kimberly Spirit of Leadership Award for her contributions and volunteer service to the Experimental Aircraft Association. Byrson has volunteered for 27 years at EAA’s AirVenture and has served as a chairperson of the International Visitors Tent since 2004. She has also lead dozens of volunteers in an effort to build an international community among the aviation enthusiasts who come to Oshkosh each year.

Roberts, Ritschke & Tyczkowski, Ltd., is proud to announce they have hired Jack Marx as a new Staff Accountant at their firm. Marx is responsible for reconciling accounts, the preparation of financial statements, as well as preparing different kinds of tax returns. Marx graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point with a Bachelor’s degree in Business and Economics and has just recently completed an accounting certificate from the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh.

Bayland Buildings, Inc. is excited to announce the official groundbreaking of the Dörr Hotel in Door County on December 3. The hotel will be Door County’s first hotel in 17 years. The building will include 47 rooms including eight suites. The Dörr Hotel website will begin taking reservations in the Spring of 2020 to secure stays for dates in 2021.

NOVEMBER 2019 mEMBER HAPPENINGS

The Oshkosh Community YMCA has announced the retirement of CEO Tom Blaze starting in December of 2019. Tom is retiring after 43 years with the organization. Throughout the years, Tom has served at six different YMCA locations in four different states. During his duration in Oshkosh, Tom has successfully raised over 20 million dollars for corporate projects, overseen exponential growth in memberships, and made an immense impact on our community. Also, the 20th Avenue Oshkosh Community YMCA has announced that its Veteran’s Day Lunch and Ceremony to honor our nation’s courageous veterans will be held on Nov. 11. The day will include a free lunch in the cafe area as well as a veteran’s resource fair. Following lunch, State Representative Gordon Hintz, as well as renowned author BJ Elliot Prior, will be speaking about a variety of topics. To learn more about the event, visit OshkoshYMCA.org.

The Oshkosh Area United Way distributed over 75,000 diapers to different area charity organizations during an event in late October at the UW-Oshkosh Culver Family Welcome Center. Close to a dozen different agencies were able to pick up the diapers which would later be distributed to Oshkosh families in need.  Along with UW-Oshkosh, both Castle Pierce transport and Kimberly Clark played a part in the event.

The Grand Oshkosh – Oshkosh native and American Idol Golden Ticket winner, Franki Moscato, recently performed at The Grand Oshkosh. The show was titled “Franki Moscato and Friends” and was focused on promoting her suicide awareness platform. Moscato showcased her latest music video, “Aware”, which she created to use as a base for her charity work. Moscato and her band performed alongside other area musicians Mike Underwood, Julio Reyes, Kurt Shipe, and Ross Catterton.

Verve, A Credit Union – Kristin Steede, vice president of learning and development at Verve, a Credit Union, was named the Professional of the Year by the CUNA Operations & Member Experience Council. The CUNA Operations & Member Experience Council is a member-led organization comprised of nearly 1,000 credit union professionals across the country. The award recognizes and appreciates Steede for her crucial work on Verve’s internal culture initiatives and much more. The award was given to Steede at the CUNA Operations & Member Experience Council’s annual conference in Chicago on Sept. 12.

Lakeland Care, Inc. is proud to announce that they rose over $100,000 for local charities during their CARE for a Cause program this past summer. This company-wide program has been ongoing since 2011 and consists of donating payroll deductions to a local charity. One hundred percent of all funds raised each period were donated to chosen charities during that time.

Festival Foods announced the 12th annual Oshkosh Turkey Trot will be held on Nov. 28 at 8:00 a.m. at Menominee Nation Arena. All participants will receive a long-sleeve t-shirt and the proceeds of the event will be benefiting the Oshkosh YMCA as well as the Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh. Participants can choose between a 5-mile run, 2-mile fun run, 2-mile walk or jog, or a 2-mile dog jog. For more information, go to festivalfoodsturkeytrot.com.

KerberRose is pleased to announce five firm-wide employee promotions including two out of the Oshkosh location. Andy Mathes and Melanie Stellmacher have both been promoted from Managers to Senior Managers after several years with the company. Mathes primarily focuses on retail accounting as well as State and Local Tax and has been with KerberRose for five years. Stellmacher has over 15 years of experience in tax and accounting service and is also a QuickBooks ProAdvisor.

Woodward Radio Group – Appleton native and Wisconsin Basketball star Brian Butch will be working with the Big Ten Network this basketball season as a game and studio analyst. Butch, who is the current co-host of the radio show “BJ and The Bear” in Appleton, played four seasons at the University of Wisconsin where he was named All-Big Ten Honorable Mention and Academic All-Big Ten as well. Along with several stints playing professional basketball, Butch has previously coached in the NBA G-League, working the last two seasons as an assistant with the Wisconsin Herd of Oshkosh.  Lastly, Butch also runs the Brian Butch Basketball Camps and the Brian Butch Basketball Academy, bringing knowledge of the game to the next generation.

The Fox Valley Workforce Development Board honored the final cohort of press brake trainees in a graduation ceremony on Oct. 22 at the Wald Wiring & Manufacturing Co. in Oshkosh. This cohort was the fourth and final set of graduates to be certified in press brake operations. The graduates received over 54 hours of customized instruction from the Fox Valley Technical College and they worked closely with company mentors, adding an extra 80 hours of classroom time. Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes, who was a former workforce board professional from Employ Milwaukee, was in attendance at the ceremony and celebrated alongside the graduates.

J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. has announced that it has ranked No. 57 on Deloitte’s Wisconsin 75, a ranking of the 75 largest private companies in Wisconsin. Deloitte’s annual Wisconsin 75 list recognizes companies based on their sales revenue and impact on their community. The companies awarded play a key role in the state’s economy.

October 2019 member happenings

Ascension Wisconsin is excited to announce that they have launched their Online Care platform that can give consumers 24/7 access to care. This new platform allows patients to have a one-on-one video visit with a healthcare professional anytime, anywhere. Ascension Online Care also offers a comprehensive virtual care option for urgent, episodic and nonemergency needs. For more information regarding the new platform, visit acension.org/onlinecare.

 

Lakeside Packaging Plus is happy to introduce its new Business Development Coordinator, Mark Salzer. At Lakeside Packaging, Salzer will be responsible for maintaining relationships with current clients while simultaneously building new client relationships. He will also be responsible for generating new sales and partnership opportunities for our production area. He will play an essential role in the future growth of LPP.

 

 

Verve, a Credit Union – For the third year in a row, Verve, a Credit Union, was named one of Credit Union Journal’s Best Credit Unions to Work For in 2019. A 30-page questionnaire on benefits and policies submitted by the credit union and an in-depth survey completed by team members determines the nationwide ranking. Some unique aspects of the Verve work environment include a robust onboarding program with servant-leadership training; a wellness program that facilitates morning team stretching sessions, an on-site therapy dog and more; casual dress days that raise money for charity and the opportunity to participate in random acts of kindness known as Random Acts of Verve.

The Oshkosh Community YMCA Downtown Center has been named Facility of Merit in Athletic Business Architectural Showcase. The accolade was given to the YMCA’s downtown location for being one of the nation’s best-constructed athletic, recreation and fitness facilities. The YMCA’s downtown location underwent a phased expansion and renovation that transformed it from an outdated facility into an exciting and vibrant community center in the heart of this growing city. After the completion of the renovation in 2018, memberships jumped 38% in just one year while facility usage skyrocketed 77% as well. To learn more about the YMCA, visit oshkoshymca.org. Also announced, the Oshkosh Community YMCA is working together with Samaritan Health in order to help celebrate World Mental Health Awareness Day on Thursday, October 10. Included in this celebration, which is hosted at the 20^th Avenue YMCA, will be a free workshop held by mental health professionals, a mental health survey in order to understand the specific needs of our community, and an information booth. For more information, please contact Rich Roehrick, Oshkosh Community YMCA Health and Wellness Director, at [email protected] or (920) 230-8919.

The EAA Aviation Museum Eagle Hanger turned back time on last weekend as they honored the 75th anniversary of D-Day with their annual September Swing Hanger Dance. Scattered around the hanger were an array of authentic World War II planes, artifacts, and vehicles paying tribute to this special D-Day anniversary. EAA also announced the annual Wright Brothers Memorial Banquet will be held on December 13^th. Two record-setting keynote speakers, Steve and Steven Hinton, the father-and-son duo who have each won national air racing championships and set speed records, will be delivering the keynote speeches at the event. Learn more at EAA.org/WrightBrothers.

Govani Dental’s owner and dentist, Dr. Shaheda Govani, was one of 350 dentists from the United States inducted as a fellow into the International College of Dentists, class of 2019. Govani joins more than 11,000 members worldwide as well as 6,500 U.S. members in the fellowship, which recognizes and promotes leadership in the dental field. Just 3% of all U.S. dentists are selected for this elite honor. The induction took place in San Francisco, California on Sept. 6th.

 

 

The Winnegamie Home Builders are partnering with the United States Marine Corps, the Oshkosh Salvation Army, and Oshkosh Corporation to host another great year of Toys for Tots. Each year, the mission of the Toys for Tots program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during the holiday season and distribute those toys as gifts to less fortunate children in the community. While the holidays are a great time to celebrate with loved ones, we can’t forget that this season can be extremely difficult for families going through some hardships. Interested in being a DROP OFF LOCATION, please contact Jodi at 920-235-2962, or email her at [email protected]. Interested in donating newly-packaged, unwrapped toys check out WHBA.NET or Facebook at Toys for Tots, Winnebago County WI for a full list of business hosting collection boxes.  All collection boxes will be picked up on December 13^th by the many volunteers from Oshkosh Corp. and will be distributed to the families that are registered through the Oshkosh Salvation Army the week of December 16^th.  For more information on a drop off location near you, please contact Jodi Vandermolen, Winnebago County Toys for Tots Coordinator at [email protected] or 920-235-2962.

 

Oshkosh Public Museum – On October 12, the Oshkosh Public Museum will be exhibiting The Menominee Clans Story. The Menominee Clans Story will display wood figures carved by the Menominee traditional artist, James F. Frechette, Jr who was born and raised on the Menominee reservation. Frechette learned many of the traditional crafts in his tribe as well as absorbing the stories, legends and ancient lore of the Menominee people.  The Oshkosh Public Museum is honored to showcase and share the story of the Menominee people through the work of Mr. Frechette. To learn more about the new exhibit, visit oshkoshmuseum.org.

 

Writing by Design, LLC, an Appleton-based marketing and innovation agency, is excited to announce the addition of Kristin Kenowski as an associate marketing manager. Kenowski will be responsible for the agency’s marketing efforts as well as serving clients through marketing strategies and execution of tactics with copywriting, graphic design, and digital marketing support.

 

 

J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. is excited to announce that they now have 15 patents related to electronic logging technology. The United States Patent and Trademark Office confirmed U.S. Patent No. 10,417,844 which helps to improve compatibility with different types of vehicles as well as help record vehicle movements. This patent further extends J.J. Keller’s intellectual property portfolio and is a sign of great things to come in the near future. J.J. Keller has also announced a new partnership with the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI) in order to help prevent future costly falls within the workplace. The NFSI is the world leader in walkway safety standards and aims to help identify specific workplace hazards that may cause harm to individuals. J.J. Keller will be offering new walkway safety training for employees as well as online training courses for supervisors in order to help eliminate future accidental falling injuries from occurring.

September 2019 chamber member happenings

Bank First has recently been announced as one of the Best Banks to Work For in 2019. The program, which was initiated in 2013 by American Banker and Best Companies Group, identifies, recognizes and honors U.S. banks for outstanding employee satisfaction. Determining the best banks to work for involves a two-step process. The first step involves an evaluation of participating companies’ workplace policies, practices, and demographics. In the second step, employee surveys are conducted to directly assess the experiences and attitudes of individual employees with respect to their workplace. The combined scores determine the top banks and the final ranking. Full results of this year’s program are available at www.americanbanker.com.

Best Western Hotels & Resorts (BWHR) celebrates its continued dedication to guest satisfaction as they are named #1 in the upscale segment in the J.D. Power 2019 North American Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study. The Best Western Premier is one of the BWHR’s most exclusive offerings, which brings a notably refined and elegant travel experience to today’s discerning travelers. Today, Best Western Premier hotels are setting a higher standard for travelers with stylish designs, attention to detail and personalized service.

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh – Jeffrey Sachse, of Manitowoc, has been named interim director of the Center for Customized Research and Services (CCRS) at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. Sachse will be responsible for leading the center as well as providing research and development support to University economic development programs and initiatives. He previously served as the director of the Office of Economic Advisors at the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and in several economic and workforce development roles in northeastern and southeastern Wisconsin. Sachse also serves on the boards of Two Rivers Main Street and the Wisconsin Downtown Action Council. The CCRS carries forward UW Oshkosh’s long history of programs that connect University faculty and student resources to businesses and organizations in the broader region to drive economic growth

The Wisconsin Herd, the NBA G League affiliate of the Milwaukee Bucks, recently announced their 2019 -2020 season. The team will play their first game of the season on Friday, November 8 at Menominee Nation Arena against the Windy City Bulls at 7 p.m. The Herd’s schedule consists of 50 regular season games which will feature 24 home games, 24 road games, and two neutral site games as well. The Herd will end their regular season against the newly rebranded and relocated College Park Skyhawks on Saturday, March 28 at Gateway Center Arena. See the full season at www.wisconsinherd.com.

von Briesen & Roper, s.c. has announced the addition of an attorney and registered lobbyist, Nicholas J. Probst, to lead the law firm’s new Government Relations and Administrative Law Section. Probst and his team will help represent clients in administrative law and the rulemaking process, regulatory compliance and political law. Joining Probst in this sector are shareholders Jacob J. Curtis, Matthew R. McGovern, Rebecca Roeker, and Andrew T. Phillips, who also serves as Chair of the firm’s Government Law Group.

 

Ascension – The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists (OSMS) and Ascension Wisconsin have announced plans to build a new 45,000-square-foot orthopedic clinic and surgery center which is expected to open in the fall of 2020. The new facility will be called The Orthopedic Surgery Center of the Fox Valley and will be located right off Highway 10 in the Village of Fox Crossing. The clinic will create around 25 new jobs, including nurses, physician assistants, and surgical technologists. Patients will have access to a variety of different services including:

• a walk-in Acute Injury Clinic for urgent orthopedic injuries including fractures, sprains or lacerations;
• a full scope of surgical and non-surgical orthopedic care for all ages including joint replacements, fracture care, arthroscopy (scopes), injections, and more;
• a procedure room to provide efficient, cost-effective care for treating conditions like carpal tunnel or trigger finger;
• physical and occupational therapy provided by Ascension Wisconsin.

EAA –  On September 6, a celebration will be held for the veterans of Old Glory Honor Flight’s Return to Nam. The event will premiere the long-awaited 100% volunteer-produced book and companion movie which capture the veterans’ stories from their original tour and return journey to Vietnam fifty years later. The night will also include interactive presentations, artwork displays, and a chance to meet the Return to Nam veterans!

Blue Door Consulting – Oshkosh-based marketing firm Blue Door Consulting earned a spot onto Inc. magazine’s prestigious list of the 5000 fastest-growing private companies. Blue Door Consulting ranks 3,261 on the 2019 Inc. 5000 list. This is the company’s second time being included on the list. In 2018, Blue Door Consulting ranked 3,436. Privately owned, independent companies that met minimum revenue targets for 2015 and 2018 were eligible to apply for the list.  According to Inc., companies on the 2019 list achieved a three-year average growth of 454%, and a median rate of 157%. The Inc. 5000’s aggregate revenue was $237.7 billion in 2018, accounting for 1,216,308 jobs over the past three years.

Aquire Restoration Inc. is relocating to 2625 S Washburn Street, just north of The Outlet Shoppes at Oshkosh. Aquire has experienced unprecedented growth, doubling the company’s sales (year‐over‐year), since being established 9 years ago. In order to continue providing industry‐leading services under one roof, a new location was needed to house its growing staff and increasing assets as well as allow for future growth/expansion. The company is developing specialized divisions to better service its customers including (but not limited to) carpet cleaning, duct cleaning, and remodeling services. In addition to celebrating 12‐years in business, Aquire will be hosting a Grand Re‐Opening celebration on October 25^th from noon until 5pm. The Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce will lead the ribbon cutting ceremony at noon, with members of the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and Envision Greater Fond du Lac also in attendance. The public is welcome to come see one of the largest, state‐of‐the‐art restoration facilities in Northeast Wisconsin: grab a bite to eat, have a drink, take a tour, and leave with an anniversary gift.

Lakeland Care Inc., a locally Managed Care Organization, is excited to announce that they have selected Sara L. Muhlbauer of Oshkosh as its next Chief Executive Officer. Lakeland Care Inc. specializes in providing family care services to more than 6,000 individuals in Northeastern and North Central Wisconsin. Muhlbauer has worked at Lakeland Care since 2009 in a variety of roles including Care Management Supervisor, Provider Network Manager and most recently, Chief Operations Officer.  She will assume the CEO duties at Lakeland Care in October and succeeds Katie Mnuk, Lakeland Care’s current CEO, who has announced she will retire at the end of this year.

Govani Dental – Dr. Shadeda Govani and Dr. Eric Childs of Govani Dental have partnered up with the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation to create a program that matches online charitable donations made to the fund, dollar for dollar, up to $1,000. The program, called Govani Dental Gives, will choose a local nonprofit or charity each quarter to feature and match online donations. During September, they will raise funds for the Oshkosh Area Humane Society, and later in 2019, they will feature the Oshkosh Area Community Food Pantry. For more information on how to contribute, contact Govani Dental’s office at (920) 231-1955.

Dockside Tavern – The annual Docktoberfest at the Dockside Tavern will be taking place on October 5. Docktoberfest celebrates German culture with live music, a 2K Bier Run, a classic corn hole tournament, and a frankfurter eating and costume contest. All proceeds of the event will benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh.

Oshkosh Public Museum announced its annual Deck the Halls exhibit will take place at from November 24 through January 5. Stroll through the halls of the historic Sawyer home to witness the beautiful holiday decorations and marvel at the gorgeous interiors designed by Tiffany Studios of New York. Also, enjoy the one-of-a-kind landscape-themed stained glass window on the landing of the grand staircase.

 

Oshkosh Area United Way – On Tuesday, August 13, Oshkosh Area United Way (OAUW) celebrated their 57^th annual campaign kickoff event, supported by Amcor Flexibles. This year’s kickoff focused on local students and took place in the North High School Field House. The event kicked off the United Way fundraising season with efforts to support local programs in the community. This year, OAUW raised $998.48 for the schools, where 41% of Oshkosh Area School District students live at or beneath the federal poverty level. OAUW also had a collection drive where school and hygiene supplies were gathered for the schools. Oshkosh Area United Way also announced Andy and Karen Leavitt as their 2019 Campaign Co-Chairs.

KerberRose was recently ranked in the top 300 firms in the nation by Inside Public Accounting for the fourth consecutive year. The publishers of Inside Public Accounting, an award winning newsletter for the public accounting profession, recently announced the nation’s 400 largest firms as well as the 2019 best firms. KerberRose was ranked 216 out of 300 in the publication and are continuing to rank higher each year.

Eagle Point Solar, one of the largest solar installers in the Midwest, is excited to invite the public from the Oshkosh area to a free Solar Energy Lunch & Learn Seminar on August 20 at 12 p.m. Some of the topics discussed will be solar technology, specific solar equipment, and evaluation incentives which are currently available in the area. The seminar will be located at the Ground Round at River’s Edge in Oshkosh. In order to reserve your spot, visit [email protected].

J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc., announced as the first Wisconsin company to achieve ISO 45001.2018 certification. ISO 45001 is the international standard outlining best practices for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems. J.J. Keller is the first company in Wisconsin to be ISO 45001:2018 certified and the 17th company in the nation to attain this certification by DQS, Inc. since the ISO 45001 standard was introduced in 2018.

August 2019 chamber member happenings

 

Oshkosh Corporation, a leading innovator of mission-critical vehicles and equipment, today launched a refreshed brand identity and new website. The move is a major milestone for the company, which has more than a century of experience building some of the industry’s toughest specialty vehicles, vehicle bodies and access equipment. The new brand was chosen to reflect how the company has evolved into what it is today. The brand is unveiled on the overhauled OshkoshCorp.com website. The site is centered on the company’s impact, its culture, innovation, strong manufacturing heritage, history of perseverance and its vision for the future.

 The Wisconsin Herd, the NBA G League affiliate of the Milwaukee Bucks, will host a local player tryout on Saturday, Sept. 14, at the Oshkosh 20th Avenue YMCA. Local players will have the opportunity to showcase their talents in front of Herd and Bucks basketball operations personnel. Prospects can earn an invitation to the Herd’s training camp, which will tip off in late October. Interested players must submit the required registration form located here prior to arriving at the tryout on Sept. 14. Participation is limited to the first 75 individuals who submit their completed registration form and payment. The tryout will be closed to public viewing. Also, the Wisconsin Herd has named Chase Buford as the team’s new head coach. Buford becomes the second head coach in team history. Buford, 30, most recently served as an assistant coach for the Delaware Blue Coats, the NBA G League affiliate of the Philadelphia 76ers. Prior to Delaware, he spent the 2017-18 season as an assistant coach for the Erie BayHawks, the G League Affiliate of the Atlanta Hawks. From 2015-17, Buford was the coordinator of player development for the Chicago Bulls.

The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Career and Professional Development department is hosting a Recruiter’s Connection career fair on August 8^th. This networking event gives an opportunity for regional recruiters and HR professionals to get together to network and have discussions involving the best practices for college recruiting. This event is open to any campus recruiter or HR professional and is free. For questions about this event contact Mai Nhia Xiong at [email protected] or 920-424-2181.

 

SkipperBuds is hosting Warriors on the Water on August 10. This 2^nd annual event to benefit Wounded Warriors United of Wisconsin will be taking over 65 veterans coming from all over Wisconsin to be hosted for a day of fishing and recognition by volunteer fishermen coming from as far as Minnesota. An impressive on-site Silent Auction and Raffle including a new boat, hunting blinds, fish finders, artwork and so much more will be up for the bidding for lucky winners.  Attendees are encouraged to come out from 11am – 4pm to help support and recognize the veterans as they come up on stage to talk about their experience.  It will be a fun afternoon for all.  Come out and see the Schneider National truck – only veterans are allowed to drive. Learn more at https://www.woundedwarriorsunitedwi.org/

Blue Door Consulting won nine Communicator Awards from the Academy of Interactive & Visual Arts. As the leading international awards program for marketing and communications, the Communicator Awards honor cutting-edge techniques, creativity and impact. It receives more than 6,000 entries every year. Blue Door Consulting earned awards in excellence and distinction for online advertising and marketing, promotional marketing, videography, logo design, branded content, website design and website features. Blue Door Consulting received one Award of Excellence for its work with Sawyer Creek Orthodontics on the Confident Aligners video campaign. The Award of Excellence is the highest honor, awarded for best in the field of communications. The video category recognizes the impact and creativity of visual images in the marketing and communications industry.

The Oshkosh Area United Way “stuffed the truck” on Tuesday, July 9, at their annual Stuff the Truck event at the Walmart Supercenter. The items collected support the Oshkosh and Winneconne Back to School Fair, which helps over 1,000 students from low-income families get ready for the new school year. The United Way increased their amount collected by 210% from 2018 by bringing in over 3,200 items during the one-day event. The Oshkosh Area United Way will also be kicking off their annual campaign with an event on Tuesday, August 13. This year’s event focuses on local schools and will offer a high-spirited pep rally event at Oshkosh North High School. Over 200 homeless students attend Oshkosh Area School District schools, many whom don’t get the meals they need in a day or a place to sleep. Attendees of the kickoff will enjoy a pep rally experience complete with food from local vendors, performances by drum lines and dance squads, a game of lightning basketball with local community leaders, and other similar activities.

The Grand Oshkosh has unveiled its 2019-2020 season lineup which will include music from a multitude of genres, theatre, comedy, and more. The Grand’s opening weekend kicks off September 26^th with a special event, The Four Phantoms in Concert. Some other notable performances will be pianist Alpin Hong on April 4^th and Wisconsin teen icon Franki Moscato on November 2^nd. For more information on the Grand Oshkosh’s schedule, visit TheGrandOshkosh.org.

J.J. Keller & Associates has hired Sean Nebert in the new position of Director of DOT Consulting. With over 20 years of fleet safety, compliance and operations leadership, Nebert is well-versed in fleet management, policy development, and related best practices. Prior to joining J.J. Keller, Nebert worked as the Director of Logistics—Inbound Fleet Strategy for US Foods. J.J. Keller’s DOT consulting team has also expanded recently to include new consultants Brandon Cain and Earl Coy. Both come to J. J. Keller with extensive backgrounds helping fleets improve safety and regulatory compliance.

KerberRose will host a Personal Hygiene Drive in the month of August to benefit the Oshkosh United Way. Obtaining personal hygiene products can be a challenge for local families. According to a study conducted by Feeding America, 58% of low-income individuals who were unable to buy personal care products reported cutting back on food to afford toiletries, and 40% reported skipping or delaying rent payments to obtain products. Personal hygiene items may be dropped off at KerberRose Certified Public Accountants at 1750 West Pointe Drive in Oshkosh. Drop off times are Monday through Thursday 9 am to 5 pm. If you have questions, please contact KerberRose (920) 426-1040.

GKM Wisconsin announces the Wisconsin Intermodal Import/Export User Panel Discussion, August 22, 2019, Green Bay, WI. GKM Wisconsin began research for the WI Circuitous Intermodal Platform in 2013. The study began when Garry Moss, President and CEO was given White Paper Studies from multiple sources that outlined current and future problems related to transporting 20 and 40 foot international containers to and from Rail exchanges located in Chicago. In 2018 Garry Moss and GKM was granted a copyright by the United States Library of Congress for designing methods to increase visibility and efficiencies for companies that import and export products to and from Wisconsin. Information about Integrated Supply Chain Equity Analytics and the positive impact it has on Southern and Northern Flows will be discussed at the WI Platform Panel Discussion. On August 22, 2019, GKM WI will sponsor and host the 10^th WI Circuitous Platform discussion since 2014. For additional information about the discussion or to register please click here.

 

July 2019 chamber member happenings

Verve, a Credit Union opened a new branch located at 1065 N. Washburn Street on Monday, June 10. The new location on Oshkosh’s growing west side allows Verve members to access more services through innovative technology as well as an easy-to-access location. The North Washburn location marks Verve’s fourth branch in Oshkosh and its 16 location throughout Wisconsin. Verve has also announced plans for its intent to acquire South Central Bank, a $300 million asset community bank that is based in the Chicago Area. The acquisition of South Central Bank is expected to be finalized later in the fourth quarter, pending regulatory approval. South Central Bank, NA has relationships with more than 750 small businesses, many of them being long-term friendships.

Continental Girbau Inc. has changed its name to Girbau North America (GNA), according to President Mike Floyd. Spearheaded by Girbau Global Laundry Solutions (Girbau) – the parent company of the North American subsidiary – the name change to Girbau North America provides a clearer representation of the company and its brands and eliminates any brand/company name confusion according to Floyd. Girbau North America’s brands, which remain unchanged, include Continental Girbau, marketed to vended, commercial and on-premise laundries; Express Laundry Center, marketed to vended laundries; Girbau Industrial, marketed to industrial laundries; Sports Laundry Systems, marketed to athletic laundries and health clubs; OnePress Ironers, marketed to commercial and on-premise laundries; and Poseidon Textile Care Systems, marketed to fabricare and drycleaning operations

On June 15th, the EAA Aviation Center brought in two dozen ultralight and light planes from all over Wisconsin to participate in this year’s Ultralight Day. Invited pilots and members of EAA Ultralight Chapter 1 and Chapter 75 (Southern Wisconsin and North Central Wisconsin) partook in accuracy landings, bean bag drops, and a “torpedo run test.” Competitors who scored in the top three of each event received a plaque recognizing their skills. For more information on winners and other details, visit eaa.org.

Chief Executive Officer of Bank First, Mike Molepske is pleased to announce that Matt Bookter has recently joined the bank as Vice President of Business Banking in their Green Bay market. Bookter has over 18 years of banking experience and has most recently been with Huntington National bank where he specialized in banking relationships, commercial loans, and cash management. Bookter will be responsible for the growth and continued development of the bank’s Green Bay market.  Glenn Curran has been promoted to SVP Market Manager for the bank’s Oshkosh area market. Curran joined the bank in 2018 and has over 18 years of business banking experience. Eli Steimle has been promoted to Business Banking Representative at Bank First. Steimle joined the bank in 2010 as a youth apprentice on the teller line, performed an internship in the Treasury Management department, and recently worked as a business analyst at the bank.

 

The UW Oshkosh College of Business is looking for business to join the College to Career Conference on September 18 from 5 – 7 p.m. at the Oshkosh Convention Center. This event is an opportunity to connect and interact with nearly 400 emerging business professionals. Different than a Career Fair, employers will have the ability to freely network with students throughout the room and exchange business cards all while creating relationships with potential employees!

The Wisconsin Herd, the NBA G League affiliate of the Milwaukee Bucks, is excited to announce that they will host their first home game of the season on Friday, Nov. 8 at Menominee Nation Arena. The home opener is one of six confirmed home dates for the 2019-2020 season. The Herd’s complete 50-game season schedule will be announced later this summer. To learn more, visit wisconsinherd.com. The Wisconsin Herd has hired Arte Culver as Director of Basketball Operations and promoted Peter Herman to Coordinator of Basketball Operations. Culver most recently served as the Director of Recruiting and Player Personnel at Vanderbilt University. Prior to that, he spent the 2016-17 season as the Head Coach of the men’s basketball team at Covenant College. He also spent two seasons as an assistant coach at Wheaton College. Herman spent the past two seasons working as a Basketball Operations Intern with the Milwaukee Bucks. Prior to that, he held a position as a Graduate Assistant at the University of Nevada – Reno where he earned a master’s degree in educational leadership. Herman received his bachelor’s degree in education from Winona State University, where he served as a student manager for the men’s basketball team. In addition, Herman holds experience assisting with USA basketball, working the college summer camp circuits nationwide.

Ascension NE Wisconsin – Mercy Campus and Mercy Health Foundation is excited to be hosting an open house and ribbon cutting celebration for The Oasis, a Hair Studio on Wednesday, August 7 from 4-6 p.m. The celebration will be held in the Ascension Mercy Michael D. Wachtel Cancer Center, just steps away from The Oasis. This “boutique” is where individuals in our community who are dealing with hair loss while undergoing treatment for cancer or other medical conditions can come to find the materials, expertise, and support they need to feel good about themselves. For more information, contact the Mercy Health Foundation at [email protected].

Ascension at Home honored Jenny Welch, RN Case Manager, for the genuine commitment and care she provides all of her patients and for her willingness to go above and beyond as a nurse case manager. She was honored at their most recent DAISY Award ceremony on June 7.  Crystal Hanson nominated Jenny by giving four great examples to show the impact Jenny has made on the families we serve. This is the fourth year Ascension at Home has been participating in the DAISY Award program. For more information regarding the DAISY Award program, visit daisyfoundation.org.

 

The Oshkosh North Girls Softball team was honored on June 9 with a parade and welcome home ceremony for their accomplishment of becoming state champions on June 8. The team was escorted through the city as people celebrated the success of the young athletes and then followed with a welcome home ceremony in the Oshkosh north Fieldhouse. The Spartans finished the 2019 season with a perfect 31-0 record and defeated Sun Prairie 4-2 in nine innings during the Division 1 State Title Game. This marks Oshkosh North’s first D1 Softball State Title in school history.

Rhyme – created our charitable foundation called Rhyme Time in order to increase our ability to help others. The reason we chose Rhyme “Time” is because time is our most valued asset. We cherish our time and we cherish the opportunity we’ve been given to help others. Every year Rhyme gives out scholarships to students that have been touched by cancer. We do this in honor of Steve Ennis and Jack Steinhoff; two men that always represented Hard Work – Determination – Optimism and “Making Every Day Count”. To-date we have awarded 49 scholarships and this year was our largest yet with over $13,000 awarded to 12 recipients! The scholarship represents students who show hard work, determination, optimism, and the idea of “making every day count”. For more details about Rhyme Time, visit rhymebiz.com.

SkipperBuds’ Tomorrow’s Anglers Fish Quest Tournament is set for July 14, 2019. This yearly nonprofit event was conceived for the sole purpose of promoting fishing through a youth tournament whose format is modeled off real professional fishing circuits. A child and his or her parent are paired with a professional angler in a fully rigged boat for a day on the water learning and catching fish. The day concludes with each child coming to a stage with his catch where he will have his fish weighed-in, describe his day in an interview, and hold his catch up for the crowd. This grand scale event promises to be an unforgettable day for each child. Generous prizes have been donated and will be awarded to the children. Learn more at https://tomorrowsanglers.com

Roberts, Ritschke & Tyczkowski, Ltd – Adam G. Pritzl, CPA, CVA has successfully completed the certification process with the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts® (NACVA®) designation.  The CVA designation is granted only to individuals who have met a high bar or both prerequisite qualifications and passed a substantive examination testing both understanding and theory and the application of skills in the field of private company business valuation. Adam will be assisting our valuation team with engagements ranging from litigation, SBA financing, buy-sell negotiations, estate planning, tax planning, and succession planning.

The Oshkosh Area United Way is seeking donations for Stuff the Truck on Tuesday, July 9th, from 11am-6pm at the Walmart Supercenter parking lot in Oshkosh! All of the items of this event will go to support the 2019 Oshkosh-Winneconne Back to School Fair in August. The Oshkosh Back to School Fair program provides grade-specific school supplies, hygiene products, and other goods and services to help prepare low-income students for the new school year and better achieve academic success. For information on how to volunteer, visit oshkoshunitedway.org.

 The Fox Valley Workforce Development Board, based in Neenah, has received an initial $65,000 grant from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development to serve individuals permanently laid off from area retail stores, such as the recent Shopko store closings. The grant received by the Fox Valley Workforce Development Board will be used to cover the costs to train displaced retail workers in jobs critical for our region. It will also be used to cover needed support to ensure the training period can continued uninterrupted, including mileage, childcare and other financial assistance. For more information on this grant, visit your local American Job Center. A complete list is found at wisconsinjobcenter.org.

J.J. Keller and Associates, Inc. is proud to unveil its second Amazon Alexa skill, but this time for HR professionals. The nation’s leader in safety & regulatory compliance says that the HR daily insight skill is set to launch at the upcoming SHRM 2019 Annual Conference & Exposition in Las Vegas. To hear more about the new skill and to understand how it works, visit JJkeller.com.

June 2019 chamber member happenings

SEE FULL JUNE MEMBER MATTERS NEWSLETTER

 

Ascension Mercy Health Foundation has promoted Liz Rice Janze  to Foundation Director, leading the Ascension Mercy Health Foundation. In this role, she will be responsible for leading strategy, fundraising, board relations and donor engagement. She previously served as a grant writer and then as foundation officer for Ascension Mercy Health Foundation. Janzen also is deeply involved with the Oshkosh community as she was a 4H leader, a 2009 graduate of the Leadership Oshkosh group, a member of the Oshkosh Rotary, and much more.

Bank First announced two promotions. Meghann Kasper has been promoted to Chief Credit Officer. Kasper joined Bank First in 2010 and has over sixteen years of banking experience. Most recently, Meghann served as Senior Vice President & Market Manager of the bank’s Oshkosh territory. Kasper will be responsible for the overall management of the bank’s Credit Department, including overseeing the underwriting of all bank loans, providing direction on the bank’s loan policy, and implementing processes and procedures to ensure the bank’s lending portfolio remains in line with Bank First’s culture of superior credit quality. Nancy Koch has been promoted to Assistant Branch Manager and Officer of the Manitowoc bank. Nancy joined Bank First in 1993 as a teller and since then, has evolved into a key member of the Bank First team. In her new role, Nancy will be responsible for the overall administration and efficiency of the daily operations of the bank’s 8^th Street office in Manitowoc, including communication of the bank’s products and services, delivery of exceptional customer service, and assurance of the security and safety of the bank’s employees and customers.

The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh has released the dates for two career fairs coming this fall. The first career fair takes place during the first week of the fall semester on September 3 from 11:00 to 2:00 p.m. outside at the Academic Mall (between Dempsey and Polk Library). The second opportunity is the Career Fair on the Fox on September 25 from noon to 4:00 p.m. in the Kolf Sports Center. For more information head to https://uwosh.edu/career/events/career-fairs-students

von Briesen & Roper, s.c., announced that the firm has opened a new Appleton office and has welcomed substantially all of the lawyers and staff of the Appleton-based law firm of Silton Seifert Carlson, S.C. von Briesen’s new lawyers are Lawrence C. Silton, Stephen A. Seifert, Adam N. Skarie and Jared R. Stroik. For over 45 years Silton Seifert Carlson, S.C. has served clients in the Fox Valley with distinction,   focusing on business, municipal and litigation matters. Silton Seifert Carlson, S.C. ceased operations effective May 30, 2019.

Shea Electric & Communications, LLC. is pleased to welcome a new employee to the team!. Bryan McDowell started as a new Journey Wiremen this month. Bryan brings many years of experience in the electrical field.  Shea Electric & Communications, LLC, first opened its doors in 2006. They have since become one of Northeast Wisconsin’s leading companies in the electrical/ low voltage installation and service work industry.

 

The EAA Aviation Center is proud to announce that they will be honoring and saluting Clarence “Bud” Anderson during the warbirds activities at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2019. Anderson is a very distinguished World War II triple ace and is a member of the National Aviation Hall of Fame as well. Also announced is the “D-Day Plus 75” exhibit which salutes and honors the 75th anniversary of the D-Day invasion during World War II. The exhibit will be available to the public at the EAA Aviation Museum at 10 am on June 6th, the exact day of the 75th anniversary. Several World War II veterans are invited and scheduled to attend the ribbon cutting for the exhibit, located in the Eagle Hangar’s Telling Gallery. Included in the exhibit will be an extensive collection of World War II memorabilia as well as rare artifacts from veterans and collectors.

The Wittman Regional Airport Master Plan project is moving forward and will take a comprehensive approach in evaluating the entire airport and assessing it’s long term needs. Some primary areas that have been tagged for re-development include the terminal area, east hanger land use, and a complete analysis of the airport’s runways. Contract negotiations with the Mead & Hunt aviation planning firm are nearing an end and the project is anticipated to begin in May. Governor Evers has also approved $218,000 in grant funding for the airport to undertake a seal coat and crack seal project for a number of asphalt aprons and taxiways at Wittman.

Casey’s General Stores opened the first of two new sites in Oshkosh. Casey’s first location in Oshkosh is located at 2322 Jackson St. There will be a two-day Grand Opening held Friday and Saturday, June 7 and 8^th, to celebrate the store opening. The 4,185-square-foot store will be open seven days a week from 5 A.M. – 11 P.M., and will offer a four-pump setup, Casey’s famous made-from-scratch pizza, fresh sub sandwich station, bakery items, full-service coffee station, and more. Customers can also enjoy Casey’s mobile app and online website for easy online ordering, coupons, discounts, and more. Store will also feature your favorite beverages, snacks, tobacco items as well as an assortment of groceries and general merchandise. Casey’s second store on Oshkosh Ave scheduled tentatively for opening August 22^, with Grand Opening September 6 & 7^th. Casey’s General Stores, Inc. is a Fortune-500 company (NASDAQ CASY) operating over 2,150 convenience stores in 16 states throughout the Midwest and the South. Casey’s strives consistently to deliver quality gasoline, freshly prepared foods, clean environments and friendly service at every retail location. Casey’s is currently the fourth largest convenience store chain, and the fifth largest pizza chain in the United States.

The Oshkosh Area United Way’s 24th annual Day of Caring event attracted over 170 volunteers and nearly 600 total hours of cleaning, planting, and construction on May 8th. Volunteers from 28 different Oshkosh companies tackled 22 different community service projects. These record-breaking numbers brought a 30 percent increase in volunteer participation and a 22 percent increase in participating companies compared to the 2018 event. The 2019 Day of Caring provided a collective total of about 600 hours of service that translates to about $15,000 in economic impact for the community. The United Way also hosted a Day of Caring Food Drive to support the Oshkosh Area Community Pantry. 222 pounds of nonperishable goods and baby diapers were collected and delivered to the pantry by volunteers.

Oshkosh Farmers Markets announces the first summer market to take place on June 1^st within the 400 & 500 Blocks of N Main St. & 100 Block of Church Ave. in downtown Oshkosh. The market takes place from 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

The Downtown Oshkosh BID announces this year’s Chalk Walk to take place on Saturday, August 3^rd.  Artists and Community Members of all age artists are invited to chalk up the sidewalk around opera house square. Attendees are encouraged to join in and watch or take part in creating some art. There will be food, fun and music!s and levels of ability are invited to transform Downtown Oshkosh with colorful artwork. Go to https://downtownoshkosh.com for more information.

 

 

The Grand Oshkosh – Overture Center for the Arts announced today that the 2019 Rising Stars talent search, completely free to participate in, will expand in Wisconsin through partnerships with The Grand Oshkosh, The Grand Theater in Wausau and Viterbo University Fine Arts Center in La Crosse. Online registration for the statewide program begins Saturday, June 1, 2019 at 10 a.m. Participants of all skill levels and talents (ages 6+) will have the opportunity to develop their talent with guidance from industry pros. There will be three age categories with $750 cash prizes and one grand prize winner will receive a $1k prize, booking opportunities, a digital marketing consultation and the chance to perform at Overture during the 2020/21 season. Auditions will be held at four statewide locations, each with a panel of local celebrity judges (to be announced). Acts selected from the preliminary auditions will be invited to The Callback on Saturday, Aug. 17.

Oshkosh Public Museum launched a summer program series. Their June offerings will be Learn Native American Beadwork on Sat, June 8, 10:00 am–12:30 pm  and 1:00 pm–3:30 pm  Taught by Kathryn Footit, Stockbridge-Munsee Mohican Nation. Glass Block Mosaic Garden Art on Sat, June 15, 1–3:00 pm  Taught by Lee Ann Lilly. My Doll and Me Party, Featuring American Girl Doll Kaya on Sat, June 22, 1–3:00 pm  The class will be taught by Emily Rock. Museum exhibits and programs at www.oshkoshmuseum.org.

The Woodward Radio group’s employee owned KZ 104.3 is rebranding as the Green Bay’s Best Variety as they continue to grow their music library of hit songs. KZ 104.3 is looking forward to reaching women who grew up listening to the radio in the 80s and 90s as well as enjoy today’s hit music. From Madonna to Mariah to Maroon 5 and everything in between, the Woodward Radio Group is excited about their new brand.

Appleton International Airport – The Old Glory Honor Flight is holding a plane fundraiser called Pulling for Honor at the Appleton International Airport on August 10th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The goal of the event is to raise $85,000 for the Old Glory Honor Flight so that they can help send United States war veterans on an unforgettable trip to see their memorials in Washington, D.C. Community members are encouraged to get involved by starting a team to compete in a plane pulling competition! For more information, visit https://atwairport.com/community-partnerships/pulling-for-honor-2019/

J.J. Keller & Associates Inc. has announced that nominations are now open for the J.J. Keller Safety Professional of the Year (SPOTY) award! The annual award recognizes workplace safety professionals who achieve excellence in safety for their organizations as well as their influence to build a culture of safety within the workplace. The award winner will receive national recognition as well as $10,000 in cash and prizes. J.J. Keller is the nation’s leading provider of safety regulatory compliance solutions and strives to make every work environment a safer one. Nominations will be accepted through July 1, 2019, until 5:00 p.m. at www.jjkeller.com/spoty.

 

May 2019 chamber member happenings

SEE FULL MAY MEMBER MATTERS NEWSLETTER

 

Horicon Bank is excited to announce that it’s been ranked as a Top Workplace in Wisconsin for the seventh year in a row! This award is based solely on employee feedback through an extensive survey process conducted by Energage, LLC. Other comments emphasize flexibility, teamwork and a workplace of respect The full list of Top Workplaces is published in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Horicon Bank received the award in the small-sized employer category. The full list is available at www.jsonline.com.

Bank First National Corporation (NASDAQ: BFC) (“Bank First”), the holding company for Bank First, N.A., is pleased to announce it recently received approval from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), the Federal Reserve (Fed), and the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (WDFI) to merge Partnership Community Bancshares, Inc. (“Partnership”), parent company of Partnership Bank, into Bank First. Partnership will seek approval of the merger from its shareholders at a special meeting to be held June 11, 2019. Subject to that approval, the merger of the two organizations is scheduled for Friday, July 12, 2019.

The Oshkosh Herald earned a second place in General Excellence among its 11 awards announced April 12th by the Wisconsin Community Papers (WCP) group at its state convention. The Herald was recognized with 2 first, 5 second, and 2 third place honors in the advertising design competition in various categories for display ads, promotions, classifieds, and community service.

McClone announced the hiring of Bill Julius as the Executive Vice President of Sales. Bill will lead the operation and management of sales, while partnering with the marketing and client experience teams to drive profitable revenue and cultivate strong relationships with clients, partners and the community. As a member of the executive team, Bill will be working closely with the company’s partners on developing and executing key initiatives to drive the company’s growth strategy. Bill brings over 20 years of sales leadership experience to McClone, 12 years specifically within the insurance industry.

EAA Aviation Center announced Apollo 11 command module pilot Michael Collins will be the featured guest as EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2019. Collins will be will be joined by fellow Apollo astronaut Joe Engle during the evening program at Theater in the Woods on Friday, July 26, hosted by four-time space shuttle astronaut Charlie Precourt. EAA Aviation Center also announced they will be hosting walk-in hiring events for EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2019 jobs. EAA is looking to hire individuals to fill as many as 600 temporary positions in various areas. These temporary positions are excellent opportunities for many people, including students or retirees, who are seeking a temporary position that does not require a full summer commitment. Visit EAA.org/AVJobs19 to learn more and to apply.

Oshkosh Country Club – TJ’s Highland Steakhouse opened last month inside the historic Oshkosh Country Club at 11 W. Ripple Avenue near Lake Winnebago. The Oshkosh Country Club was founded back in 1899. The upscale, newly renovated restaurant, owned by TJ and Valeta Rodgers, boasts an impressive 6,500 square feet appointed with tartan cloths imported from Scotland, local hickory wainscoting, luxurious seating and dynamic lighting. The menu features USDA Prime dry-aged beef broiled to perfection at 1500F plus a selection of fresh seafood and specialty dishes prepared by celebrated New York City chef, Michael England. The extensive wine and spirits lists include well-known and small producers from around the globe. Chef England is a celebrated figure in food circles with extensive experience in steak house operations. Previously he spent eight years as Executive Chef at The Palm Restaurant in New York City and five years as Executive Chef at The Palm Restaurant in Atlantic City, NJ. He is a recipient of the President’s Award from the American Culinary Federation.

Oshkosh United Way is excited to host the 24th annual Day of Caring, presented by BMO Harris Bank. This event is one of the largest organized volunteer events in the area and is a great way to support the Oshkosh area community. Day of Caring takes place on Wednesday, May 8, 2019, from 7:30 a.m. to noon. Oshkosh Area United way also added a new board member. David Kersztyn, a lifelong Oshkosh resident.  He attended UW-Madison College of Engineering and graduated from Milwaukee School of Engineering (BS Mechanical Engineering, AS Internal Combustion Engines). In 1971 he joined the Army Reserve Officer Training Corp and began working at Keenline Conveyor Systems in 1975. His current position at Keenline Conveyor Systems is CEO and Owner.

Winnegamie Home Builders Association has moved the 2019 Spring Parade dates to June due to the harsh winter.The Parade builders will be on hand to give your ideas to build, remodel or redecorate spaces for family fun, entertaining guests, convenience and/or low maintenance.  You can also see open concept kitchens filled with custom crafted cabinets, spacious islands, and energy saving technology, luxurious master suites, soaring ceilings, and beautiful views. The Parade of Homes will take place June 20-23.Thursday/Friday 5pm.-8pm. and Saturday/Sunday 11am.-4pm. Tickets will go on Sale June 7th. For more information, go to whba.net

Oshkosh YMCA announced the 4th Annual Kids Mud Run to be held on June 2! The course is just over a mile long and has over 14 obstacles. Proceeds will benefit the Oshkosh Community YMCA Annual Campaign. With your help, no child will be denied YMCA programs or membership due to financial limitations.

Appleton International Airport announced that Elite Airways will offer select charter flights for EAA AirVenture Oshkosh Fly-In, July 22-28. Elite Airways operates a fleet of Bombardier CRJ-200 and CRJ-700 jet airliners known for comfort and efficiency, and maintains an impeccable safety record. The airline is offering EAA AirVenture event-related charter flights to/from Appleton International Airport (ATW), from three specific cities—Fort Worth, Texas; Melbourne, Florida; and Portland, Maine.

GKM WI announced supply-chain executives from School Specialty and BTG will lead a panel discussion to explain how The Wisconsin Platform solved issues related to import/export container flows, inventory management, lack of visibility and eliminated assessorial charges and other costs related to container recovery delays, ELD regulations and lack of capacity. The discussion will be held at UWO on May 22nd, 11am – 1pm. To learn more visit conta.cc/2VN1rU6.

Woodward Radio Group – Heritage classic rocker, 105.7 WAPL was honored with the Radio Station of the Year 2019 Award on April 14th,at the 39th annual Wisconsin Area Music Industries Awards at Turner Hall in Milwaukee. The station was nominated in the People’s Choice Radio Station category for Northeast Wisconsin. This is the 4th Radio Station of the Year – Northeast division Award WAPL has won in the past 6 years. In 2016, WAPL Morning Show and Home Brewed host, Len Nelson was honored with the President’s Award for his continuing service to the Wisconsin music industry and its musicians.

 

April 2019 chamber member happenings

See full April Member Matters newsletter

Winnebago Community Credit Union, a not-for-profit financial institution held its 65^th Annual Meeting on March 7th. Over 90 members/owners were in attendance, and two incumbent board members were re-elected to three-year volunteer terms. Board Chairman. Thomas Geske, gave an overview of the past year and conveyed to members that Winnebago Community Credit Union is a sound financial institution serving over 7,700 members who live or work in Winnebago, Fond du Lac, and Outagamie counties.

Sure-Dry Basement Systems is partnering with Pillars for the Home Runs Against Homelessness program with the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers. As part of the partnership, Sure-Dry Basement Systems will donate $50 to Pillar for each home run the Timber Rattlers hit at home this season. Last season, the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers hit 41 home runs at home, bringing in $2,050 for Pillars.

EAA announced aerial firefighting will be a major theme at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2019 with support from the U.S. Forest Service and other aircraft operators and manufacturers. EAA will be working with the U.S. Forest Service and other entities to bring various firefighting aircraft to AirVenture to allow visitors to see them up close. Exact details on firefighting aircraft scheduled to appear and other programming around the aerial firefighting theme will be released in the coming months.

Oracular is excited to announce that they are growing and expanding their capabilities with a renewed focus and energy in 2019. As part of this next chapter in their evolution, they are changing their company name and will now be doing business as Smart IS International.  To celebrate this exciting change, they will be hosting ‘EMERGE’, a party open to the public to officially launch their new name.  The event will be held at the UWO Alumni Center on Thursday, May 2^nd, 2019 from 5:00-7: 00 pm.  There will be complimentary food, beverages, giveaways to all attendees and a few fun surprises along the way. Oracular has been a trusted business and technology solutions partner to local and global organizations for more than 30 years, with their headquarters located in Oshkosh. The growth they have shared with their clients has enabled them to open two new offices since 2013; one in Islamabad, Pakistan and the other in Frankfort, Germany. The ‘EMERGE’ event will feature more information about other new milestones happening with this locally focused global organization.  For more information and to register, visit www.smart-is.com/emerge

Excellence in Leadership will have its 2019 Christian Values for Business Excellence in Leadership seminar on April 16. The featured speaker is Alan Loux, the President and CEO of Rawhide, INC. The seminar will be held at the Oshkosh Convention Center starting with lunch at 11:15 am, followed by the seminar from 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm. For more information, visit www.eilgroup.org

 

 

Heid Music – March was “Music In Our Schools” month and Heid Music celebrated by pledging to match up to $10,000 of individual donations to local school music programs. This initiative, dubbed “Music Matters” was designed to celebrate music education at a local level. Everyone in the community was invited to participate by visiting a local Heid Music store to make a donation, or by donating online. At the end of the month, school districts received all cash donations, plus up to $500 of in-store credit. To learn more about the Music Matter Initiative, visit www.HeidMusic.com/Music-Matters.

Oshkosh Area United Way announced a 2018 fundraising total of over $1.3 million; the most ever collected in support of almost 40 local programs. Campaign Co-Chairs Paul and Peg Larson shared this news at OAUW’s Community Celebration, which attracted more than 150 people to Best Western Premier Waterfront Hotel & Convention Center on Feb. 28. The community was encouraged to raise money to fund unmet local needs related to mental health, steps to a living wage, and early childhood learning. The funds raised during the campaign will support OAUW’s partner programs in 2019. For more information, visit www.oshkoshunitedway.org. Oshkosh Area United Way also announced the 24^th annual Day of Caring. This event is one of the largest organized volunteer events in the area and is a great way to support the Oshkosh area community. The event takes place on Wednesday, May 8, 2019, from 7:30 a.m.–noon. Day of Caring is a great event for both nonprofits and volunteers. Nonprofit organizations are able to spread the awareness of community issues and discover new community members who could serve as future volunteers and advocates.  Learn more at www.OshkoshUnitedWay.org/day-of-caring

The Oshkosh Public Museum announced new exhibits coming to Oshkosh this spring. The former Winnebago Room gallery is being transformed to accommodate  Menominee artist James Frechette Jr.’s (1930-2006) Clans figures in the 1980s and 1990s. The clans figures capture the cultural dimensions of the ancient clan system depicting dress, symbols, tools, colors, traditions, and many details. The former Logging & Lumbering gallery on the second floor is temporarily closed for construction of a new, dynamic Sports & Recreation exhibition, a frequently requested topic. This lively display of sporting and leisure artifacts also features historic photographs of local people participating in these fun activities. Construction is expected to be completed in 2020.

Appleton International Airport introduced a new valet system. To use the new service, passengers will pull their vehicle up to the designated valet lane near the terminal doors, and bring their keys to the ATW welcome desk. The passenger will then provide their name, phone number and flight information before dropping off their keys with the attendant. Once the passenger returns, they will receive a text message confirming their vehicle is ready and waiting just steps from the front door. The new service is available for $8 per day with a one-time $10 service charge.

J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc – The United States Patent and Trademark Office has issued U.S. Patent No. 10,204,533 to J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc., the nation’s leading provider of safety and regulatory compliance solutions. The patent, related to hazardous materials (hazmat) placards, further extended the company’s intellectual property portfolio. The patented invention relates to the clips (or fasteners) used to hold the placards. Placard fasteners are known in the industry to be problematic as they weaken and fail over time. The J.J. Keller patented fastener was specially designed to help prevent the clips from weakening, saving companies time, effort, and money to replace them. Further, it reduced the risk of non-compliance due to a damaged or missing placard.

J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. also announced Ethan Bagley has joined the company as director of innovation. Bagley is responsible for driving innovation across the organization, including new product and service ideation, prototype development and product and service launches. The innovation leadership position is part of J.J. Keller’s newly formed Research & Development (R&D) area.

 

March 2019 Chamber member happenings

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Rhyme is pleased to announce that they have been awarded the Office Technology Service Excellence Award by BEI Services Inc, the nation’s only unbiased source of service and equipment benchmarking. Only companies that have a proven track record of service excellence in areas that relate directly to customer service, machine performance and overall Service Department efficiency are awarded.  Within Rhyme’s Service team, they had 12 individual award recipients of the Office Technology Service Award: 7 Service Technicians achieved the Diamond Level, 3 Service Technicians achieved the Platinum Level, and 2 Service Technicians achieved the Gold Level.

CORRIM Company LLC – Two long-term members of Corrim Company LLC’s executive team have acquired the company from the former owner. New owners, Mark Miller and John Morelli will serve as President and Vice President respectively for the 34-year-old company. Miller with Corrim Company for 22 years, started as the Engineering Manager and was promoted to General Manager in 2018. Morelli joined the Corrim Company six years ago as the National Sales Manager. They acquired the company from Gluth, effective December 28, 2018, as he prepared for retirement after serving as owner and president for 23 years. In his role as President, Miller will oversee day to day operations and the strategic direction of the company. Morelli will continue directing and leading all sales efforts, providing support and training to distributors throughout the country. Corrim Company works with a commercial hardware distribution network throughout the United States, Canada, Guam, Mariana Islands and the Caribbean Islands.

Oshkosh Corporation announced that they have been recognized by the Ethisphere Institute, a global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices, as one of the 2019 World’s Most Ethical Companies. Oshkosh Corporation has been recognized for four consecutive years and is one of only four honorees in the automotive category. Scores are generated in five key categories: ethics and compliance program (35 percent), culture of ethics (20 percent), corporate citizenship and responsibility (20 percent), governance (15 percent) and leadership and reputation (10 percent). All companies that participate in the assessment process receive their scores, providing them with valuable insights into how they stack up against leading organizations. The full list of the 2019 World’s Most Ethical Companies can be found at https://worldsmostethicalcompanies.com/honorees.

Stellar Blue Technologies celebrated their 15^th anniversary as a website design and development and full-service digital marketing agency. They also announced plans to expand into the Greater Green Bay market with new office space in Green Bay, WI. The company welcomed new hires Cameron Wengrzyn – Project Manager, Bryan Steiner – Digital Marketing Manager, Kayla Ammon – Digital Marketing Specialist, Courtney Krepline – Digital Marketing and Multimedia Specialist, Jacob Thiel – Web Developer, and Connor Thompson – Analytic Strategist.

EAA Aviation Center announced the 50th anniversary of the Boeing 747, the iconic wide-body jetliner that has carried everything from heads of state to the space shuttle, will be celebrated at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2019. It is expected that several Boeing 747s will make an appearance at AirVenture during the week, with fly-bys and displays on AirVenture’s showcase Boeing Plaza.

Aurora Health Care announced they will be hosting a cancer support group starting in March. The meetings are designed to help family, friends, and patients impacted by cancer. Learn more at www.aurora.org/events

 

 

 

 

The Boys and Girls Club of Oshkosh announced their Afternoon Tea event. This summer, 50 girls ages 7-10 will be participating in this special program. They will learn about manners, self-esteem, how to treat others and themselves with respect, and much more. The Afternoon Tea will be their reward for completing six character and etiquette classes. As a part of the program the girls receive new sundresses to wear to the Tea. They also get their hair professionally styled by local stylists.

The Grand Oshkosh announced it will host Cocktail Hour: The Show, by New York City-based Company Ballets with a Twist. This show will make its Wisconsin debut Saturday, March 30, at 7:30 P.M. Created by artistic director and choreographer Marilyn Klaus, Cocktail Hour: The Show reinvents the glamour and excitement of classic entertainment with an innovative mix of charismatic choreography, intoxicating music, and exquisite costume design.

Appleton International Airport and ThedaCare – leaders are pleased to unveil upgrades to the Appleton International Airport facility and a significant partnership with ThedaCare. From the collaboration, travelers will notice health features throughout the airport, as well as a more convenient travel experience. New additions to the airport include a more streamlined security checkpoint featuring a living plant wall and an open floor plan for improved directionality. Appleton International Airport is now the third largest airport in Wisconsin.

Woodward Radio Group has hired a new Brand Manager for WHBY and WSCO – The Score talk stations, and have added three additional sales executives to its staff. Jonathan Krause was hired as the Brand Manager. He has 18 years of experience as Program and News Director for stations in Oshkosh. Jonathan has won numerous Wisconsin Broadcasters Associations and Associated Press awards for News and Editorial Comment. Brian Butch joins as morning Co-Host of BJ and the Bear on the Score and will also serve as a part-time sales executive for WHBY and WSCO. Jennifer Valeri joins as a sales executive for KISS and KZ. She has over 20 years of experience in sales and marketing. Jason Davis joins as a sales executive for WAPL and Razor. He has 12 years of radio sales experience. Former sales executive Jennifer Ball will be transitioning to Business Manager in-training. She will take over when 40-year WRG veteran Sandi Schmidt retires.

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 2019 Chamber Member Happenings

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Bank First celebrates 125 years of relationship-based banking. Headquartered, in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, Bank First was founded in 1894. Today, Bank First has 19 locations throughout the state, and has become one of the top financial institutions in the state of Wisconsin. Bank First looks forward to celebrating its milestone anniversary by hosting special events at each of their 19 offices throughout the year as well as offering special products and gifts as a thank you to the community for 125 years of support and patronage. For more information on these events, please visit their website: www.BankFirstWI.bank. Also announced, Bank First National Corporation (Nasdaq: BFC) (“Bank First” or “the Company”), the holding company of Bank First, National Association, announced today the signing of an Agreement and Plan of Merger with Partnership Community Bancshares, Inc. (“Partnership”), parent company of Partnership Bank, a Wisconsin state-chartered bank, under which Bank First has agreed to acquire 100% of the common stock of Partnership in a combined stock-and-cash transaction.

Oshkosh Corporation announced that it has been recognized as one of FORTUNE’s World’s Most Admired Companies. Oshkosh Corporation is one of only 330 companies to achieve this honor, as ranked by industry peers, highlighting some of the most respected and successful companies from around the world. Oshkosh Corporation ranked fifth in the “Construction and Farm Machinery” category. This is the second time that Oshkosh Corporation has received this prestigious award and Oshkosh is one of only five Wisconsin-based companies named.

The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh held their 24^th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration on January 21. This celebration featured a keynote address from Dr. Elfred A. Pinkard, the 22nd President at Wilberforce University in Wilberforce, Ohio. Dr. Pinkard has spent his entire career ensuring the academic success of students at historically black colleges and universities. Also, The University announced the 2019 Spring Career Fair on the Fox will be held on March 6 at the Kolf Physical Education and Sports Center.

Image 360 announced the purchase of Crown Trophy. Owner, Tim White, officially took over January 2, 2019. Image 360 is a full-service sign and graphics company which offers all types of indoor and outdoor signs, exhibits and displays, interior décor, custom framing and vehicle wraps. In addition to this acquisition Image 360 is expanding their facilities with a vehicle wrap installation bay. White stated that this acquisition fits well with the product lines they currently offer and this will help grow and expand his business into an area that is different, but compliments the products and services that are already offered.

Wihlm Dental – Dr. Michelle Wihlm is pleased to announce Dr. Ruth Marx has joined the staff at Wihlm Dental. With the addition of Dr. Marx, the practice can grow substantially by accepting new patients, and provide services from two licensed dentists. Dr. Marx received her undergraduate from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, and went on to receive her Doctor of Dental Science Degree from Marquette University.

 

EAA Aviation Center announced the Skiplane Fly-in will take place at the EAA Aviation Museum’s Pioneer Airport in Oshkosh on Saturday, February 9. This event highlights the unique segment of flight that is quite popular throughout many parts of North America. Weather and runway conditions permitting, the skiplanes will arrive mid-morning of February 9, and will stay until mid-afternoon. EAA also announced several performers who have committed to the 67th annual Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in convention, scheduled for July 22-28 at Wittman Regional Airport. Among the performers and aircraft already planning to appear at Oshkosh in 2019 are longtime favorite Julie Clark, making her farewell air show tour in 2019, and Sean D. Tucker, returning with the Team Oracle multi-aircraft show. Others already on the schedule include:

AeroShell Aerobatic Team (T-6s)
Vicky Benzing (Stearman)
Jeff Boerboon (Yak-110)
Bob Carlton (SubSonex JSX-2)
Kirby Chambliss (Red Bull Edge 540)
Matt Chapman (Extra 300LX)
Class of ’45 (P-51/Corsair)
Kevin Coleman (Extra 300 SHP)
Aaron Fitzgerald (Red Bull Helicopter)
Kyle Fowler (Rutan Long-EZ)
Kyle Franklin (Demon-1 Dracula/Kitfox S7)
Mike Goulian (Extra 330SC)
Nathan Hammond (Super Chipmunk)
Heritage Flights (with F-16 and F-22)
Rob Holland (MX-2)
Jerry Kerby (RV-8A)
Justin Lewis (FLS Microjet)
David Martin (Beech Baron)
Jessy Panzer (Pitts Special)
Jim Peitz (Beechcraft F33C Bonanza)
Red Bull Air Force (Wingsuit Pilots)
Rocky Mountain Renegades (RV-8, RV-4, G-202)
Shetterly Squadron (One Design, SNJ-6, RV-8)
Gene Soucy/Teresa Stokes (Grumman Showcat)
Bill Stein (Zivko Edge 540)
Skip Stewart (Pitts S2S Prometheus)
Patty Wagstaff (Extra 330LX)
Matt Younkin (Twin Beech 18)

The EAA Aviation Museum in Oshkosh has been selected as one of the 20 Best Aviation Museums Around the World, according to the CNN Travel website. The updated listing, published during Christmas week, includes aircraft collections on display in 11 different countries.

 

The Boys and Girls Club of Oshkosh will hold their Youth of the Year Dinner on March 19 at the Best Western Waterfront Convention Center. This dinner is a great opportunity to congratulate members on their efforts to grow in Health and Wellness, Academic Success and Character, and Leadership. To learn more please contact Tracy at [email protected].

The Oshkosh Public Museum is pleased to announce that Emily Rock has joined the staff as Registrar. For the past six years, Emily was a curator at the History Museum at the Castle in Appleton, Wisconsin, where she managed the collection, coordinated field trips and public programs, and worked on exhibits. Among the many skills Emily brings to the Museum is experience with the Past Perfect collection database. Additionally, she handled loans and shipping for major traveling exhibitions brought to The Castle, and regularly worked with donors, members, and volunteers. A native of the Green Bay area, Emily knows and appreciates the history of the Fox Valley region.

Oshkosh Area United Way is excited to announce a new way to support the Oshkosh area community fund. Feed the Need fundraisers offer residents a delicious way to eat out for a great cause. Every month a different local restaurant will offer unique components, such as special menus, raffles, discounts on food and beverages, and other prizes. A portion of sales supports Oshkosh Area United Way, a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening the health, education, and financial stability of the Oshkosh area.

Appleton International Airport – claims the title as the third largest airport in Wisconsin. Appleton saw a 25 percent increase in passengers in 2018, more than six times the national average of four percent. In 2018, Appleton was named the fourth fastest growing airport in the country by Bloomberg News. Passenger numbers in and out of Appleton International Airport have now increased for the past 20 months. In 2018, Appleton International Airport added more flight times and increased aircraft size in response to the growth. The airport also added nonstop service to Denver, Colorado and seasonal nonstop service to Fort Myers/Punta Gorda, Florida.  New additions to the airport include a mother’s room, more comfortable security checkpoint featuring a living plant wall, and an open floor plan for improved directionality. The airport will also add a curbside valet service scheduled to launch in early 2019.

J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. recently completed a $7 million renovation of the Vinland Building, one of two facilities on its corporate campus at 3003 Breezewood Lane, Neenah. The renovation, encompassing two stories and 65,000 square feet at the center of the Vinland Building, provides room for the J. J. Keller’s growing services business by converting some of the company’s warehouse areas to office space. It is also designed around providing associates with a great daily work experience. It features a 200-foot-long skylight to bring in natural light, inviting collaboration spaces and sit-stand desks for associates who want to be mobile throughout the day and an overall open feeling.

The Fox Valley Workforce Development Board has been notified of the impending closure of Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s Neenah Nonwovens Facility, located at 1111 Henry Street, Neenah. The notice from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development indicates positions will begin to be eliminated March 15-29 and final closure is expected on or about May 31. This permanent closure will impact approximately 74 employees. The Rapid Response effort for these employees will be led by the Fox Valley Workforce Development Board, a 501(c)3, responsible for leading efforts to re-train and re-employ workers laid off in Winnebago County, as well as the counties of Calumet, Fond du Lac, Green Lake, Waupaca, and Waushara.

 

January 2019 chamber member happenings

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Rhyme – ENX Magazine and ENX The Week In Imaging announced that Rhyme has been selected as a 2018 Elite Dealer. This annual Who’s Who of the office technology dealer community, which is published annually, will be featured in the December issue of ENX Magazine. The 130-strong 2018 Elite Dealers were selected based on numerous criteria, including growth initiatives, innovative marketing programs, outstanding customer service, charitable contributions to the community, progressive workplace cultures and adaptability to an ever-changing market. Rhyme has consistently been recognized as an Elite Dealer and is on track to record its 20th year of growth, which it feels is a considerable achievement in a highly competitive industry.

Oshkosh Corporation announced that it has been honored with a Glassdoor Employees’ Choice Award, recognizing the Best Places to Work in 2019. The Employees’ Choice Awards program, now in its 11th year, relies solely on the input of employees, who elect to provide feedback on their jobs, work environments and companies via Glassdoor. This is the second consecutive year that Oshkosh Corporation has earned this award; achieving an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5. Oshkosh was ranked #65 out of the top 100 largest companies, with 830,000 companies on Glassdoor. Glassdoor’s Best Places to Work were determined using company reviews shared by U.S.-based employees between October 23, 2017 and October 21, 2018. To be considered for the large category, a company must have had at least 1,000 or more employees and have received at least 75 ratings across each of the eight workplace attributes from U.S.-based employees during the period of eligibility. The final list is compiled using Glassdoor’s proprietary algorithm, led by its Economic Research Team, and takes into account quantity, quality and consistency of reviews.

Schenck – Wisconsin-based CPA and consulting firm Schenck SC team members plan to join professional services firm CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP) on January 1, 2019. Schenck provides audit, accounting, tax and business consulting services to privately held companies and middle-market organizations in Wisconsin and beyond. Since opening in 1930, the firm has evolved to become one of the nation’s top 100 CPA firms. Schenck is recognized by Vault as a top 25 CPA firm to work for and in the top 10 for best accounting internships. The firm is led by Daniel Young, CPA, CVA, president and shareholder, and has 10 offices throughout Wisconsin. As one of the nation’s leading professional services firms, CLA has retained the agility to serve clients of all sizes and in all locations, while at the same time bringing an unparalleled depth of capabilities, all in one place.  With this move, CLA will serve clients from 18 locations throughout Wisconsin. Young will lead the Wisconsin region as chief practice officer. The more than 600 current Schenck employees will continue to serve clients locally and nationally from their existing offices, expanding CLA’s Wisconsin team to be more than 1,000 professionals.

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh –  UW Oshkosh’s 24th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration will take place on Monday, Jan. 21, 2019 at the Alumni Welcome and Conference Center. The celebration will feature a keynote address by Dr. Elfred A. Pinkard, the 22nd President at Wilberforce University in Wilberforce, Ohio. Dr. Pinkard has spent his entire career ensuring the academic success of students at historically black colleges and universities. The keynote is entitled: “Keeping the Dream Alive: America’s Promise.”  This event is free and open to the public; however, registration is required. The event will be complemented with a medley of hors d’oeuvres prior to the start of the program. For more information, contact the Division of Academic Support of Inclusive Excellence at (920) 424-3080 or [email protected].

von Briesen & Roper, s.c. – Randall D. Crocker, President and CEO of von Briesen & Roper, s.c., announced that the lawyers and staff formerly of the law firm Hesson & Birtch, LLC in Neenah have joined von Briesen & Roper, s.c. The Neenah office is located at 244 East Doty Avenue. For over 20 years Hesson & Birtch, LLC served clients in the Fox Valley focusing on business, real estate, estate planning, and probate. Hesson & Birtch, LLC ceased operations effective December 1, 2018. The attorneys who joined von Briesen are Grant E. Birtch, Jeffrey L. Hesson and Gerald H. Rammer.

EAA – The EAA Aviation Museum in Oshkosh has opened “The Borman Collection: An EAA Member’s Space Odyssey,” an exhibit that features the personal archives and memorabilia of astronaut Frank Borman, who was on the leading edge of America’s space program through the 1960s. The new exhibit was formally opened with a ribbon cutting by Borman on Friday, December 7. EAA received the collection last spring when Borman donated it to the association, of which he is a lifetime member. The personal archives contain hundreds of artifacts, including items carried aboard space capsules, awards received for his accomplishments, and correspondence with world leaders, celebrities, and other notable figures. “The Borman Collection” also highlights Borman’s aviation career, which included U.S. Air Force service prior to NASA. The Experimental Aircraft Association will be celebrating the 50th consecutive year of its annual EAA AirVenture Oshkosh fly-in convention in Oshkosh thjis summer.

The Grand Oshkosh was recently selected to receive a community grant from The Green Bay Packers Foundation. These funds will support the organization’s Community ARTreach Series and its many collaborative programs. Built in 1883, The Grand Oshkosh is the oldest live performance theater in Wisconsin and serves the community by promoting and enhancing the performing arts through entertainment and education. With the Community ARTreach Series, The Grand Oshkosh will extend and expand the arts beyond the stage. The $3000 grant from The Green Bay Packers Foundation will support upcoming residencies with Alpin Hong, Dipti Mehta, and the monks of Drepung  Loseling Monastery. Each will share their unique talents with the community while providing takeaways on important subjects including tolerance, perseverance, equality, creativity, confidence, and art. The Green Bay Packers Foundation and the annual grants are a part of Green Bay Packers Give Back, the Packers’ all-encompassing community outreach initiative.

Winnegamie Home Builders Association (WHBA) announced three recipients of its 2018 Scholarship Program. The students are from the FVTC Construction, Residential Building Program. They are Colton Kaszuba, Noah Burton, and Cade Lentz. The WHBA Scholarship program is an important part of fulfilling our commitment to the workforce growth and development within the Building Industry. The scholarship program was launched in 1993 as one answer to the workforce shortage in the Building Industry. To date, it has provided over $72,000.00 to over 80 deserving individuals serving in the field.

ARMS – Katie Herald of ARMS (Automated Records Management Systems) has earned the Certified Secure Destruction Specialists (CSDS) accreditation from the National Association of Information Destruction (NAID). The certification recognizes an individual’s competency and proficiency in the secure destruction of information. Earning the prestigious certification requires hours of training, coupled with passing a multiple-choice and essay certification exam. NAID is the trade association for the information destruction industry and sets industrywide standards in ethics and destruction policies and procedures for its members.

 

december 2018 chamber member happenings

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Oshkosh Door was featured in the November 2018 issue of Door Security + Safety magazine. Oshkosh Door Sales Operations Manager Adam Ewald illustrates the impressive application and appearance virtues of flush wood doors in hospitality, office and mixed-use settings. Oshkosh Door has specialized in the customization of architectural wood doors for more than 165 years.

 

Candeo Creative – On November 16^th, Sheng Lee Riechers took ownership of local business Candeo Creative. Riechers was formerly vice president of the fully integrated marketing and advertising agency. Riechers joined the startup only 6 months into its inception as the communications director, then transitioned into operations and most recently her role as vice president.  Riechers plans to continue to work with Pawlosky in the upcoming year to ensure the agency continues steadfast on its mission and vision of serving clients with innovation and boosting the local economy with jobs in the creative and technology industries.

Sadoff Iron and Metal Company announced they are restructuring their business activities in Oshkosh in response to the growing market for electronics recycling and data destruction services, in tandem with achieving R2 certification for responsible electronics recycling. As part of the restructuring, the Oshkosh facility on 36 E. 10th Avenue in Oshkosh will be exclusively an e-recycling and data destruction operation and will no longer pay for ferrous and nonferrous scrap metal at the Oshkosh facility after Friday, December 21, 2018. Sadoff will continue to purchase, receive and process end of life electronics in Oshkosh and will also provide containers for ferrous and nonferrous scrap drop off during business hours Monday – Friday 7:00am-4:00pm

The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh men’s basketball team is taking a short road trip for its Dec. 30 game against Concordia University Wisconsin when it plays for the first time at Menominee Nation Arena, home of the Wisconsin Herd G-League® team. This is the perfect opportunity for families to show their Titan pride while enjoying time together during the holiday break. The Sunday afternoon game begins at 2 p.m.

The Howard opened The Lanes — a stunning 10 lane boutique bowling alley, cocktail bar and lounge, on November 28. Located in the basement of The Howard, the bowling alley was part of the building’s original construction in 1927. Now fully renovated and redone to reflect a sleek speakeasy vibe, The Lanes will offer guests an elevated bowling experience complemented by a refined cocktail menu. Guests can look forward to The Lanes debuting innovative food offerings in the coming months. Finally, just beyond the bar area resides a private viewing room decked out with a massive 50-inch antique mirror that doubles as a TV screen for private parties for up to 10 people. The Lanes is open Wednesday – Saturday for bowling reservations.

Govani Dental – Dr. Eric Childs, DDS, of Govani Dental has been inducted into the Pierre Fauchard Academy and has graduated from the Wisconsin Dental Association’s Leadership Academy. With these new professional honors, Dr. Childs will be able to bring the highest level of dental care to the Oshkosh community. Dr. Childs was nominated for the Pierre Fauchard Academy by a committee of Wisconsin dentists because of his dedication to the profession and community. The Pierre Fauchard Academy, named for the “father of dentistry,” honors past achievements of members while encouraging continuous professional development and service to the community.

The Grand – Gypsy Jazz trio, Harmonious Wail will ring in the holiday season with “Holiday Spirits” at The Grand Oshkosh on December 8. The Madison based group recently celebrated their 30th anniversary, and they continue to bring their listeners on a ride through the Hot Club sounds of Paris to the deepest blues of the Memphis Delta to the folk scenes across “every town” America. The show begins at 7:30 p.m.

Oshkosh Symphony Orchestra – The Oshkosh Symphony Orchestra, partnering with the Alzheimer’s Association, will open their 77th season with the performance of Orchestral Presents. See the talents of Conductor, Dylan Chmura-Moore and accomplished Soprano Soloist, Anna Hersey. Both musicians are influential members of the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Faculty and possess a plethora of musical and academic accomplishments.  The evening will include various members throughout our community in this event as they make their orchestral debut. Oshkosh Mayor Steve Cummings, UW-Oshkosh Chancellor Andrew Leavitt, President of Bemis North America Fred Stephan, Superintendent Vickie Cartwright, Becket’s owner Kris Larson, Executive Vice President of Heid Music, DeDe Heid, will all be taking part in Haydn’s Toy Symphony.

The Oshkosh Public Museum will have book talk event on Saturday, December 15, at 1:30 p.m. featuring local author Randy Domer. His newest book, We Shall Never Pass This Way Again, is another journey into Oshkosh’s historic and treasured past. Like his previous publications, Domer offers a diverse menu of historic treasures that will educate, inform and even surprise you.

Appleton International Airport – Last month Allegiant launched a new nonstop service from Appleton Airport to Fort Myers/Punta Gorda, Florida via Punta Gorda Airport (PGD). The new seasonal flights will operate twice weekly between Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) and Appleton International Airport (ATW).

Fox Valley Development Board – On October 30, the Fox Valley Workforce Development Board (FVWDB) celebrated the graduation of the second of four cohorts certified in press brake operation. The graduation was held at Fox Valley Technical College’s Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center with eight (8) graduates from three partnering employers, Jay Manufacturing, Muza Metal Products and SMC Metal Fabricators, all of Oshkosh. The program was taught by instructor Craig Schmidt of Fox Valley Technical College. This training was made possible due to a Wisconsin Fast Forward Grant from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. The Board received an $110,194 award to train 24 employees in the operation of a press brake. By using a press brake to form a part from a single piece of steel sheeting, rather than welding parts together, these manufacturers keep production costs competitive.

 

NOVEMBER 2018 CHAMBER MEMBER HAPPENINGS

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Best Western Premier Waterfront Hotel and Convention Center – Dan Schetter, General Manager of the Best Western Premier Waterfront Hotel and Convention Center was recently honored with the Heroic Hospitality Stars Award as General Manager of the Year. Dan received the award at Best Western® Hotels & Resorts’ 2018 North American Convention. This award honors and recognizes individuals who provide exceptional customer service and demonstrate superior professionalism in their everyday line of work. Dan Schetter was one of only seven hotel employees to receive the award, out of all the 2,100 Best Western properties in North America.

Verve participated in a Build-A-Bike® team building activity with kids from the Boys & Girls Club as part of their all-team training and enrichment day designed to promote teamwork, collaboration, and most importantly, identify opportunities to benefit others. The day ended with a surprise visit from 17 youth from the Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh. The kids received their new bikes and bags full of Verve goodies and the remaining bikes were donated to the Club to give to kids throughout the year.

UW-Oshkosh – Chancellor Andrew Leavitt announced the appointment of Dr. John Koker as the next Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. Moving forward, the position of Provost and Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs will include greater responsibilities and serve in new ways. The campus is now a multi-campus institution. The duties of Provost are internal facing and will be responsible for the operations of the university. The duties of Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs will demand oversight of the Division of Academic Affairs and implementation of the academic mission.

AT&T donated $5,000 to the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce to support career exploration programs for high school students. The Oshkosh Chamber works in partnership with the local high schools to manage and coordinate the annual fall Interviewthon & Career Exploration program for juniors at Oshkosh West and Oshkosh North High Schools.  The purpose of the program is to educate students on the skills needed for future employment, as well as assist them in determining which careers they would be interested in.

Choice Bank – In July, Choice Bank ceased operations at the Witzel Avenue location and began conducting business from a new corporate headquarters. Choice Bank’s new corporate headquarters is located at 1041 N. Westhaven Drive, Oshkosh. Since the move, they have experienced strong financial measures and reported third quarter net income of $0.79 million.

EAA – EAA AVIATION CENTER, OSHKOSH, Wisconsin — EAA Aviation Center was included as one of America’s leading military history locations in the new book, “The Top 100 Military Sites in America.” Particularly noted in the new book is the EAA museum’s Eagle Hangar, which opened in 1988 as an addition to the museum. More than one dozen vintage military aircraft are on display in that area, along with artifacts and historical interpretation of the World War II era. The Eagle Hangar also presents unique perspectives on how military aviation of the era affected other segments of the nation, from industrial production to the Homefront.

EAA’s annual Wright Brothers Memorial Banquet is coming up on December 7, and will feature Frank Borman and Jim Lovell, who 50 years ago captured the world’s imagination as two of the first humans to orbit the moon.

Menominee Nation Arena announced Award-winning artists Natalie Grant and Danny Gokey will ring in the holiday season together for the third year in a row as they co-bill their popular Celebrate Christmas Tour. This event will be on December 1 at 7:00 pm. In addition, the arena announced they are giving free tickets to the upcoming 38 Special and Lonestar: A Salute to Veterans concert to past and current military personnel who visit the arena box office Tuesday, Nov. 6. Veterans taking advantage of this one-day-only event will have the chance to see co-headliners 38 Special and Lonestar.

Strang, Patteson, Renning, Lewis & Lacy, S.C. promoted Chad P. Wade to Shareholder.  He focuses his practice on School and Higher Education law with an emphasis on Special Education Law, Labor and Employment Law, and Municipal Law.

 

Schenck – is hosting an annual Payroll Forum, “Developing Confidence and Competence to Bring Payroll Clarity,” in several locations throughout Wisconsin. Participants will receive updates about recent payroll changes and filing requirements, get answers to frequent payroll questions and learn how to manage compliance effectively. Following the workshop, participants are invited to stay for a brief iSolved® demonstration. This human capital management solution helps users manage payroll, time and attendance, benefits administration, HR functions and more.

Thedacare expands in-network healthcare access with the announcement of expanded coverage that provides in-network access to ThedaCare providers and services in a total of nine counties, including two additional counties for 2019. The Health Insurance Marketplace serves people who do not have insurance through their employer, Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) or another source that provides qualifying coverage.

Boys & Girls Club needs winter coats, boots, hats, snow pants and waterproof mittens/gloves. The club serves youth ages 6-18 and need a variety of sizes. Items can be dropped off at the Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh.

The Oshkosh Public Museum Auxiliary is hosting their Annual Gala on Thursday, November 29^th. This annual fundraising event is filled with music, holiday cheer, and an incredible array of savory hors d’oeuvres and decadent desserts. This event is open to the public.

In addition, the 2018 Deck the Halls holiday opens on Saturday, November 17, and will be on display through Sunday, December 30.

Fox Valley Technical College and Change Management Communications Center LLC. – Tina Schuelke, Owner and Executive Director of Change Management Communications Center LLC, & Amy Pietsch, Director, FVTC Venture Center, worked together to organize Startup Wisconsin – Appleton.

It’s a huge week for Wisconsin, with hundreds of different entrepreneurial events. The week received a proclamation from Governor Scott Walker and includes over 25 events happening in the Fox Cities area. The events are suited to business owners, entrepreneurs, and intrapreneurs at every stage.

The Oshkosh Farmers Market-Winter announced the new location at the Menominee Nation Arena located at 1212 S. Main St. Opening day for the Winter Market is set for November 10. Market hours are 8am to 11am on select Saturdays. In order to accommodate other events at the arena the Oshkosh Farmers Market-Winter will be held on 14 Saturdays from November thru April.

Image 360 – To accommodate growing demand in the vehicle wrap market, Image 360, Inc. is expanding their facility. The 1600-foot expansion will be a climate-controlled environment allowing the company to install full vehicle wraps in a heated building. The expansion will be attached to the north of the existing Image 360 building. The installations are not limited to cars or vans, as graphics can be applied to boats, RV’s, motorcycles, and large trucks. As the company expands this service, so too are they expanding their personnel with the addition of Susan Zolkowski-Kirk in the roll of designer and project manager.

Beiser Realty, LLC – John Malek has joined local real estate company, Beiser Realty, LLC. With over 36 years of sales experience and an outstanding record of managing long-term relationships with his customers, John’s objective has always been making sure the customer experience comes first.

 

The Grand Oshkosh – The Ladies of Laughter® Funny & Fabulous Tour is returning to The Grand featuring comedians Kelly MacFarland, Regina DeCicco and Erin Jackson. Since 2012, the tour has visited theaters across America with talent from the national competition. The comics are scheduled to take The Grand Oshkosh stage on November 16.

Appleton International Airport broke ground for an airport rescue firefighting training center (ARFF) at Fox Valley Technical College’s Public Safety Training Center. This $14 million regional ARFF training center is funded with a $12 million Federal Aviation Administration grant, and nearly $2 million from the Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics. The new facility will attract airport firefighters from across the country, and the partnership with FVTC will provide best-in-class training.

The Bay-Lakes Council Boy Scouts of America will be saluting area veterans at a public event on Wednesday, November 11^th. This event will be held at the Military Veterans Museum in Oshkosh. Featured speakers are Lt. Col. (Ret.) Michael Hert, his wife Julie, and Captain Christian M. Hert Sr. All area Veterans organizations are being asked to have representatives and informational tables, so visitors can gain more information on the various services and activities for our nation’s vets.

October 2018 Chamber Member Happenings

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Verve a Credit Union, made Credit Union Journal’s 2018 Best Credit Unions to Work For list for the second year in a row. The nationwide list is determined through a lengthy questionnaire on benefits and policies, as well as an in-depth survey completed by employees. Verve takes a comprehensive approach to team member development, going beyond job duties and focusing on culture and wellness. Some unique aspects of the Verve work environment include servant leadership training, a robust wellness program, casual attire days that raise money for charity, and helping with the 350 plus community events verve supports each year.

McClone has named Dustin McClone as President who previously held the position of Executive Vice President. Dustin joined the company in 2005 and has been a key reason for the company’s growth and success. Dustin has spearheaded major strategic moves and service offerings across the company’s portfolio of products and services, most notably the company’s expansion in human resources & employee benefits, as well as McClone’s RiskMAP™ process which systematically improves businesses’ risk profile. McClone also announced that Mike McClone, previously President and Chief Executive Officer, will assume a new role as Chairman Emeritus, and will devote time to supporting the continued growth of the organization

Bank First recently announced plans to construct a new office in Oshkosh. Currently located at 101 City Center, Bank First established itself in the Oshkosh community in 2011. The new office will be located on the corner of N. Koeller Street and Omro Road directly off U.S. Highway 41. Construction of the new office is scheduled to begin in November 2018 and is expected to be complete by late summer 2019.

The Grand Oshkosh will be hosting the performance of “PUSH Physical Theatre’s DRACULA” on October 4^th and 5^th. PUSH Physical Theatre’s adaptation of Bram Stoker’s 1897 horror novel combines traditional dialogue-driven theatre, athleticism, and acrobatics to illustrate one of literature’s most famous villains.

 

 

EAA – Last month, the U.S. National Aerobatic Championship was hosted by the International Aerobatic Club at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. The event moved to Oshkosh last year after spending most of the past 45 years at Sherman/Denison, Texas. Approximately 100 pilots competed in the event. The competition consisted of five different categories: Primary, Sportsman, Intermediate, Advanced, and Unlimited. Top finishers in the Unlimited category will earn spots on the U.S team that will compete next year at the world championships in France.

ThedaCare welcomes family medicine physician Paul Stevens, MD, to ThedaCare Physicians-Appleton West. Dr. Stevens received his bachelor’s degree from Lawrence University and his medical degree from the University of Wisconsin. Outside of work, Dr. Stevens enjoys exploring the community with his wife and two children, running, cross-country skiing, and supporting local music and sports, particularly at Lawrence University.

 

Oshkosh Public Museum – To commemorate the Great War’s centennial and explore the art, culture and history of World War I, the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh and the Oshkosh Public Museum are hosting a series of lectures each afternoon on October 2–4, followed by a special presentation nightly at 6 p.m. Admission is free to attend the World War I Centennial Symposium.

Fox Valley Workforce Development Board began its new program year on July 1, 2018 and started the year with a new trio of county leaders in top roles for its County Consortium. Serving as Consortium Chair is Mark Harris. Harris has been Winnebago County Executive since 2005 and lives in Oshkosh. Taking on the role of Consortium Vice-Chair is Alice Connors, County Board Chair of Calumet County. Alice has been County Board Chair since 2014 and lives in Chilton. The Consortium Secretary is Allen Buechel, County Executive of Fond du Lac County. Buechel has served as Fond du Lac County Executive since 1993 after serving on the Fond du Lac County Board for 17 years and resides in Fond du Lac.

J.J. Keller earned the Great Place to Work Certification for the third year in a row. This certification is based on extensive ratings provided by associates in anonymous surveys. Some of the main categories of the survey are: Great Challenges, Great Atmosphere, Great Rewards, Great Pride, Great Communication, and Great Bosses. Today, the company has grown to approximately 1,400 associates in the Fox Valley as well as remote work locations across the United States.

ARMS  recently celebrated 35 years of protecting business records. ARMS has become an industry leader in records and information technology services, including tradition document storage, certified information destruction, data protection and media vaulting, document scanning services and automated workflow solutions.

September 2018 Chamber Member Happenings

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ThedaCare  – ALEXANDER STARR, MD, JOINS THEDACARE CANCER CARE TEAM – Dr. Alexander Starr brings global experience to the Fox Valley. He is bilingual in English and Russian. Trips to Austria, the Philippines, Mexico, Turkey and Thailand over the past 18 years gave Dr. Starr the opportunity to present to other world cancer specialists on a topic of special interest to him; namely, the over-expression of a gene that causes up to 25 percent of breast cancers.

Shea Electric & Communications, LLC, is pleased to welcome three new employees to our team!  Joe Kubichek & Jeremy Schneider started as new Journeyman Electricians this month.  We are also welcoming Jessica Shea who joined our office staff in July.

McCleer Law Office – Attorney, Joseph McCleer has established a new firm, McCleer Law Office, LLC in Oshkosh. Prior to beginning his solo practice, McCleer practiced as a Child Welfare attorney in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and as a public prosecutor in Tucson, Arizona. He was most recently with Hooper Law Office in Appleton. McCleer focuses on Elder Law and Estate

 

The Howard, a stunning 33,383 square foot architectural landmark in Oshkosh is pleased to officially announce their debut lineup of entertainment programming and live concerts for 2018 and early 2019. Originally constructed as a men’s only fraternal club in 1927, the multi-use event space features a grand, 5,118 square foot ballroom and auditorium where iconic headliners such as Johnny Cash, Fleetwood Mac and other notable performers came through on tour over the course of the last century. Now as The Howard prepares to open doors to the public later this year, the forthcoming venue has already cultivated a dynamic roster of live talents, featuring nationally touring musicians and ticketed acts, interactive murder mystery dinner theatre, live Japanese gameshow-esque competitions and more.

The Oshkosh Post Office will host a Passport Day event on Saturday, Sept 8th from 9:00 AM Until 1:00 PM at the Oshkosh Main Post Office located at 1025 W. 20^th Ave. In addition to the familiar passport book, travelers can also apply for a passport card, which may be used for land and sea travel only between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or the Caribbean region. The wallet-size passport card is a less expensive alternative for those who travel to these destinations, but it is not available for international travel by air. To apply for a passport book or passport card for the first time, applicants need proof of U.S. citizenship in the form of their birth certificate issued by the city, county or state, or a certificate of citizenship or a naturalization certificate.  Applicants will also need a valid form of photo identification, and they must submit a photocopy of that identification, such as a current valid driver’s license, government ID or military photo ID. There will be passport photo service available at the Oshkosh Post Office.

Oshkosh Public Museum – The People of the Waters exhibition at the Oshkosh Public Museum opened a year ago, a project that represents four years of research, planning, design and fabrication based on input received from citizens and local teachers. This exhibition celebrates not only the Native American culture that stretches back well over twelve thousand years, but it also shares the story of their survival. The Museum’s effort to tell this story resulted in national recognition by the American Association for State and Local History in the form of their prestigious Award of Merit. People of the Waters was reviewed for its scholarly work, creativity, and the involvement of multiple stakeholder groups. It was judged against museum projects from across the nation and was selected for its excellence.

United Way – Since coming to Oshkosh in 1987 Paul and Peg Larson have been actively engaged in supporting the Oshkosh Area United Way in one way or another. Whether it’s been volunteering, serving on the board of directors, active in the campaign, or in hundreds of other ways. The Larsons will lead the 2018 United Way Fund Raising Campaign. They have long subscribed to the giving of Time, Treasure, and Talent philosophy, and are looking forward to sharing their commitment to the United Way with others.

Blue Door Consulting, a strategic marketing consulting firm, won nine Communicator Awards from the Academy of Interactive & Visual Arts. Its submissions to the 24^th annual competition earned awards for online advertising and marketing, promotional marketing, videography, logo design, website design and features, and marketing effectiveness. In total, the agency received one Award of Excellence and eight Awards of Distinction. Videography is new to both Blue Door Consulting and the Communicator Awards program. This year’s competition was the first ever to include a video category. Blue Door Consulting earned an Award of Distinction in this category for its EAA^® Airventure Day One live events online video for Shell Aviation. The highest honor achieved in the Communicator Awards competition is the Award of Excellence. This honor is given to those recognized as the best communicators in the industry. Blue Door Consulting received this honor for its work on the Outfit of the Day #OOTD campaign for Goodwill’s^® online store, reStitch™.

Appleton International Airport reported record-breaking passenger numbers in June 2018, making June the biggest month in the airport’s 53-year history. June marked the 14th consecutive month of passenger growth. More than 63,000 passengers traveled through the airport in June, up from 46,000 in June 2017. ATW also announced a new non-stop flight to Punta Gorda starting November 16, 2018

August 2018 Chamber member Happenings

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EAA announced final facts and figures from the 2018 EAA AirVenture. These included:

Attendance: Approximately 601,000,nearly two percent above of 2017’s record total.

Total aircraft: More than 10,000 aircraft arrived at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh and other airports in east-central Wisconsin. At Wittman alone, there were 19,588 aircraft operations in the 11-day period from July 20-30, which is an average of approximately 134 takeoffs/landings per hour.

Camping: More than 12,300 sites in aircraft and drive-in camping accounted for an estimated 40,000 visitors.

Guests registered at International Visitors Tent: A record 2,714 visitors registered from 87 nations, also a record total. (Actual counts may be higher since international visitor registration is voluntary.) Top countries represented by registered visitors: Canada (538 visitors), Australia (386), and South Africa (277).

Media: 976 media representatives on-site, from six continents.

Economic impact*: $170 million for the five counties in the Oshkosh region (Winnebago, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet, and Brown). * – based on 2017 University of Wisconsin Oshkosh economic impact study

In additional EAA news, NFL football tight end Jimmy Graham has been added as EAA Young Eagles Honorary Co-Chair.

UW Oshkosh – UW-Fox Valley and UW-Fond du Lac become campuses of the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh after the UW System restructure plan was approved June 29 by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). UW-Fox Valley, UW-Fond du Lac and UW Oshkosh have long shared a rich history in partnership and collaboration—through academic articulation agreements, continuing education programming, resource sharing and more. With the joining, students at the three campuses of UW Oshkosh, will have access to programs across the educational continuum—certificate programs through associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. Throughout the region, more than 12,500 students are enrolled at the three campuses. UW-Fox Valley and UW-Fond du Lac will remain access campuses that offer affordable tuition and reduce barriers to transferring credits within the UW System. Two-year campuses are considered access points for students, particularly those at greater risk of not being able to afford college: first-generation, low-income and underserved communities.

Oshkosh Corporation held their Feed the Body, Feed the Soul Packing Event on July 12. More than 900 volunteers helped pack over 200,000 pounds of food to feed people in Northeast Wisconsin – exceeding their goal by 20,000 pounds. The packing event followed Oshkosh Corporation’s Feed the Body, Feed the Soul concert, a portion of all ticket sales were used to purchase food for those in need in 18 Northeast Wisconsin counties for one year.

 

The Oshkosh Public Museum has an interesting painting on display in the For Home and Country: World War I exhibition, on view through October 7. Restored by Barry Bauman in 2011, once again the details of a chaotic World War One battle scene can be studied. The viewer is hit by the nightmare of a “modern” war, with airplanes, tanks and poison gasses intermingling with fighting soldiers.

The Boys and Girls Club of Oshkosh – The WI Cornhole Tourney, a corn hole fundraising tournament, will be held at Dockside Tavern on Saturday, September 15^th. All proceeds will benefit The Boys and Girls Club of Oshkosh.

 

 

Appleton International Airport announced July construction updates:

• Ticket counter updates complete
• Baggage claim restrooms remodeled
• Lobby restaurant & gift shop now open
• TSA lane expansion underway
• Concourse restrooms under construction

Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group recently announced the company will merge their 2830 E. John Street into two of their other local offices at 1050 N. Lynndale Drive Appleton and 105 E. Bell St Neenah. The decision for this move is to allow its agents the opportunity to build on the synergy that the other two offices already have, as well as increase activity which can only fuel a culture of productivity.

JJ Keller announces Jeff Verhagen as VP of Information Technology. Verhagen comes to J. J. Keller with more than 25 years’ experience leading technology departments and operational teams in the insurance, healthcare and financial services industries, in both small business and Fortune 500 environments.

 

July 2018 chamber member happenings

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Ascension Wisconsin opened its new Geropyschiatric Inpatient Unit as part of its commitment to improving access to behavioral and mental health services. The Geropsychiatric Inpatient Unit at Ascension Mercy is the only one of its in kind in the Fox Valley Region. Patients will receive cognitive, emotional, and behavioral care for a variety of psychiatric illnesses including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and thought disorders.

 

 

 

Oshkosh Corporation announced that President and CEO, Wilson Jones has won a Glassdoor Employees’ Choice Award honoring the Top CEOs in 2018. Among chief executives recognized by employees in the U.S., Wilson Jones received an approval rating of 93% based on the anonymous and voluntary reviews team members from Oshkosh Corporation shared on Glassdoor throughout the past year. Among the 770,000 companies reviewed on Glassdoor, the average CEO approval rating is 69%.

 

The Oshkosh Area United Way board named a new CEO to lead the organization. Board Chair Al Hartman announced Mary Ann L. Dilling has accepted the position at the agency beginning in July. Dilling most recently was employed with the Experimental Aircraft Association in Oshkosh where she served in a variety of roles including Director, Business Development and Director, Events and Hospitality. Prior to her positions with EAA she was the Executive Director for Fond du Lac Festivals.

 

Shea Electric & Communications, LLC, welcomed four new employees to their team.  Don Turner, Mark Schweitzer & Kurt Kneser started as new Journey Wiremen.  All three bring with them bring many years of experience in the electrical field. Kyle Krueger, also new to the team,  started as Construction Wireman.

The Boys and Girls Club of Oshkosh is hosting its annual community Back 2 School Fair on August 16 at Oshkosh North High School. This event helps approximately 1,000 disadvantaged youth in Oshkosh and the surrounding areas to prepare for the upcoming school year. Children attending will receive school supplies, along with personal hygiene items, clothing and haircuts.

EAA announced that Ford Motor Company is again supporting EAA’s youth aviation education programs by auctioning a one-of-a-kind vehicle that salutes an aviation legend, as the RAF Eagle Squadron Ford Mustang GT is unveiled at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2018. The vehicle, specially designed and built by Ford design engineers as well as drifting champion Vaughn Gittin Jr. and his RTR Vehicles group, will be up for bid during EAA’s biggest fundraiser, The Gathering, on July 26. Also announced, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh will have, for the first time, twice the star power for its traditional opening night concert, as country stars Dustin Lynch and Maddie & Tae kick off The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration with a post-air show concert on Monday evening, July 23.

Menominee Nation Arena announced it’s partnering with Green Bay-based promotions company, High Gear Promotions to bring a series of Christian performances to the Oshkosh venue. The first show at the arena will be on October 12, 2018 and will feature two headline performers –  The Answer / All In Tour with GRAMMY®-nominated and Dove Award-winning artists Jeremy Camp and Matthew West will be the first concert of the series. The tour marks the first time the two critically-acclaimed, chart-topping artists have co-headlined their own tour together.

The Oshkosh Public Museum announces For Home and Country: World War I. This exhibit commemorates the centennial of the First World War with an exhibition hat focuses on first-hand experiences of local men and women during the war from June 17 to October 7.

Appleton International Airport reports record number of passengers in May. Passengers increased nearly 26 percent in May 2018 compared to May 2017. Appleton International Airport now offers a new route to Denver which makes travel to the West Coast faster and more convenient, ultimately increasing passenger growth.

Woodward Radio Group -Razor 94.7 104.7 –On June 12 Razor began broadcasting on two frequencies as in the Oshkosh area. Razor 94.7 104.7. Razor 94.7 104.7 is an employee owned radio station rocking Northeast Wisconsin since February 2000 with Cutting Edge Rock from artists. The addition of the second frequency comes with a digital rebranding for the station as well. Razor can now be found online at RazorWisconsin.com, as well as on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. In addition, Woodward Radio Group’s WHBY welcomes Hayley Tenpas as a host of the station’s new afternoon talk show, Focus Fox Valley. Focus Fox Valley will concentrate on delivering local news and community minded conversation to the listeners of WHBY.

J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. and the J. J. Keller Foundation, Inc. completed construction of their 15th home built for Greater Fox Cities Habitat for Humanity. Over the course of these builds, the J. J. Keller Foundation has granted more than $1.2 million to support the builds and match J. J. Keller associates’ personal contributions. This long-term partnership has made a difference for each family by helping to provide a place they can call home. Nearly 75 associates of J. J. Keller participated in the most recent build, which kicked off during an unexpected snowstorm in mid-April.

The Fox Valley Workforce Development Board announces the hiring of Dana Keas as the Board’s new Windows to Work Coach. In this role, Keas will work with inmates who are 6-9 months from release at both the Oshkosh and Redgranite Correctional Institutions. Also, the Fox Valley Workforce Development Board was recently recognized with a 2018 Gold Seal of Transparency from GuideStar, the world’s largest source of information about non-profit organizations in the United States. In order to be recognized with the 2018 Gold Seal from GuideStar, the FVWDB shared important information with the public on www.guidestar.org, including detailed financial and audit records, information on its Board leadership in-depth reporting about the Board’s goals, strategies, capabilities, and progress.

 

 

June 2018 chamber member happenings

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Bank First National is pleased to announce the addition of Thomas Omdahl to its team as Compliance and BSA Officer. Omdahl joins Bank First with over 25 years of experience in the banking industry and will be responsible for overseeing bank compliance with regulatory requirements and internal policies and procedures. He will also be responsible for managing Bank First’s Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) program, which is designed to detect and prevent money laundering.

 

Independence Financial is excited to announce that Michael Scott was recently recognized as this year’s recipient of the HTK Blue Chip Award. This award is presented annually to only one of the over 1,000 HTK advisors. This prestigious award recognizes Mike and Independence Financial for high standards of integrity, ethics, and performance in helping clients achieve financial security.

 

Beiser Realty- Kelly Jo Hudson has joined local estate company, Beiser Realty, LLC. She has been involved in real estate since she was 16, refurbishing houses for the less fortunate during summers in Milwaukee, WI. Most recently, Kelly Jo had been affiliated with a different Real Estate company before stumbling upon an amazing opportunity to become affiliated with Beiser Realty and reap all the benefits offered to her clients.

EAA- The EAA Aviation Museum is participating in the ninth annual Blue Star Museums program, a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and museums across America to offer free admission to the nation’s active duty military personnel and their families this summer. The free admission offer is good from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend (May 26) through Labor Day (September 3). It is not valid during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh week (July 22-29). Also, educators seeking original ideas for incorporating aviation and aerospace concepts into their classrooms are encouraged to participate in the free Teacher Day activities on Friday, July 27, during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2018.

Menominee Nation Arena announced that well-known Fox Valley band Boogie and the Yo-Yo’z has been added to the Jeff Foxworthy concert slated for June 15, 2018. Tickets for Jeff Foxworthy, with special guest Boogie and the Yo-Yo’z, are available at the Menominee Nation box office or online at www.menomineenationarena.com .

Heid Music announced the winners of the 2018 Steinway Piano Competition, which took place at Heid Music Appleton on Sunday, May 20, 2018. This new event offered young artists the opportunity to compete for up to $1,000 in prize money and official recognition from an iconic world-class piano brand. Nine prizes were given to local pianists ages 18 and under. Also, Heid Music bestowed its “School of the Month” title for May upon St. John the Baptist Catholic School’s music program in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Recognized for its dedication to the importance of each individual student, this music program emphasizes student development and goal achievement through weekly solo and group lessons.

Assurance Title Services, Inc. President, Barb Schlieve, has earned the designation of National Title Professional (NTP) from the American Land Title Association. Schlieve is the first person in the State of Wisconsin to receive this title. The NTP designation is designed to recognize land title professionals who demonstrate the knowledge, experience and dedication essential to the safe and efficient transfer of real property.

 

JJ. Keller & Associates, Inc. has announced that four additional associates have achieved the designation of Certified Transportation Professional^® (CTP) by the National Private Truck Council (NPTC). This addition brings the number of current J. J. Keller associates who have obtained their CTP designation to 12. J. J. Keller associates Dean Olejniczak, Scott Rose, Heikki Darrow, and John Smith were among the graduates honored at a ceremony during NPTC’s 2018 Education Management Conference and Exhibition on April 29.

 

May 2018 Chamber Member Happenings

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Bank First National Corporation (OTC-PINK: BFNC), the holding company for Bank First, reported net income for the first quarter of 2018 of $7.06 million, or $1.05 per share, as compared to $3.99 million, or $0.64 per share, for the first quarter of 2017, representing a 64% year-over-year increase in earnings per share. Total assets were $1.70 billion at March 31, 2018, up 32% from $1.29 billion at March 31, 2017. The corporation’s board of directors approved a quarterly cash dividend of $0.16 per common share, payable on July 6, 2018, to shareholders of record as of June 29, 2018.

Oshkosh Defense, LLC, an Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE: OSK) company, was recognized last month at the 24rd Annual Corporate Safety Awards Conference by the Wisconsin Council of Safety in Wisconsin Dells, Wis. The Corporate Safety Award is given to those that exhibit exemplary safety records and excellence in safety and health management. Oshkosh was recognized with this award for its North Plant manufacturing facility located in Oshkosh, WI. This is the second consecutive year that Oshkosh received recognition for facility safety.

Quill Creative, a brand development and advertising agency located in Oshkosh, WI, won two American Package Design Awards™ from Graphic Design USA for craft beer packaging entries in the Wine, Beer & Liquor category. The design awards recognize Quill Creative’s ingenuity and creativity for its beer packaging designs for Pigeon River Brewing Company located in Marion, WI, and Fifth Ward Brewing Company located in Oshkosh, WI.

EAA –  For the 11th straight year, the opportunity for women who love aviation to build camaraderie and open doors to mentorship and participation comes to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2018, as WomenVenture activities will take place during the week. Since 2008, WomenVenture has offered the opportunity to bring together female aviators from throughout the flying community. The activities are designed to encourage participation by women in aviation, as only six percent of all pilots in the U.S. are female. Get the schedule of event at www.eaa.org/airventure.

Shea Electric & Communications, LLC, is pleased to welcome three new employees to our team!  Adam Larkee & Danny Treptow started as new Construction Wiremen this month. Both are looking forward to starting a new career in the electrical field.  We are also welcoming Greg Vanevenhoven as a new Project Manager.  Greg brings over 33 years of experience in the electrical field and holds a Wisconsin Master’s License. We are very excited to welcome them all to our growing team!

Menominee Nation Arena – It’s been decades since area boxing fans have been able to watch live bouts in Oshkosh. But, boxing returns to the city April 28 with three title fights at Menominee Nation Arena. “The Undisputable Truth” night of championship boxing starts at 7 p.m. In the main event, Duarn “The Storm” Vue, the first Hmong boxing champion in history, takes on Nehomar Cermeno of Venezuela for the World Boxing Association (WBA) Intercontinental Featherweight Championship.

interGen – Kristin Bird, Support and Training Manager for interGen Web Solutions recently passed the Administrative Exam for the Joomla Certification Program, making interGen the only web firm in the U.S. to have two Joomla Certified people on staff.  The Joomla! Administrator Exam measures expertise in topics related to the everyday use of building, managing and maintaining Joomla.

Oshkosh Area United Way is inviting you to improve the conditions of our community by volunteering on Friday, May 4th. This year, volunteers can help the Red Cross install smoke detectors in homes of local residents, or participate in a book drive to collect books for a summer reading program, or yard work at the Library, Boys & Girls Club or  Christine Ann Shelter, or helping Growing Oshkosh get it’s Urban Farm ready for the Spring season.  We also will need volunteers to help assemble book bags and write encouraging notes to young readers. Sign up to volunteer and show your community pride in Oshkosh.

Appleton International Airport had a strong first quarter with a 13 percent increase in passengers. The passenger increase is due to strong results by both American Airlines and United Airlines. American Airlines began service to Appleton in July 2017. The community response to the new airline has been so strong that American Airlines is adding additional flights and larger aircraft this spring. United Airlines has seen five straight months of customer increases and is poised for a record year at Appleton once the Appleton to Denver nonstop service begins June 8, 2018.

J.J. Keller – On April 26, 100 students spent the morning at J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. participating in activities that highlighted the important job skills needed in today’s workplace and into the future. J. J. Keller has hosted the annual event since 2005 as a way to encourage students to invest in their future and embrace opportunities for potential educational and career development. Also, this month, J. J. Keller has achieved ISO 27001:2013 certification, the international standard that outlines best practices for an information security management system (ISMS). Paul Schwartz, formerly vice president of information technology for J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc., is now vice president of technology solutions for the company.

 

April 2018 Chamber Member Happenings

see full newsletter

Schenck SC is pleased to announce Amy Biersteker, CEPA, MSE, business strategist, and Lisa Horn, CEPA, business strategist, recently earned the Certified Exit Planning Advisor designation after completing the Exit Planning Institute’s intensive four-day CEPA program in Atlanta, Georgia. Biersteker and Horn join an elite group of business advisors who have received this designation and are a part of the Exit Planning Institute’s international community of CEPAs. The CEPA program is the most widely accepted and endorsed program in the world.

Oshkosh Corporation is once again hosting a musical event where a portion of all ticket sales will help purchase food for those in need in Northeast Wisconsin. The event will feature music from Cory Chisel & Friends in a Salute to Tom Petty. The event will take place on Saturday, April 14 at the Menominee Nation Arena. Get your tickets here: http://bit.ly/2F9DmPa.

 

The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh will undergo a visit from the Higher Learning Commission May 21 and 22, 2018, for the reaffirmation of its accreditation. Currently the University is designated as Accredited on Notice by the Commission. Every 10 years a team of peer reviewers comes to campus for a visit to reaffirm the accreditation status. As a part of the Federal Compliance review, the institution asks its constituents to comment about the institution. At this time we invite our many constituents to submit comments to the Commission about the university at hlcommission.org/comment

The Best Western Premier Waterfront Hotel is hosting one of the world’s best tribute bands: Gun Sin Roses to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the historic show, on Saturday May 19, 2018, It’s a little-known fact, but it’s actually true. Fresh off the release of their debut album and after making a name for themselves on the infamous “Sunset Strip”; Los Angeles’ hottest new rock band Guns N’ Roses performed live at the Convention Center in downtown Oshkosh, WI in the spring of 1988. A few months later, the notorious group released the soon to be number one single “Sweet Child o’ Mine” and over 100 million album sales later, the rest as they say, is history. Tickets are on sale now at oshkoshwaterfronthotel.com, A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will go back to the Oshkosh Community.

The Oshkosh Area School District invites you to join them for a  community celebration and retirement reception honoring Stan Mack, Superintendent of Schools. Help us recognize Superintendent Mack’s six years of transformative leadership as Superintendent of the Oshkosh Area School District and pay tribute to his 45-year career in public education. Superintendent Mack will retire from the Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) on June 30, 2018.  The community celebration will be held on Thursday, June 14, 2018, from 5 – 7 p.m.at The Waters (1393 Washington Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54901). Light hors d’oeuvres and cash bar available.

• Check out the event page on Facebook!
• Let us know you’re coming!Please RSVP on our Eventbrite page(RSVP’s appreciated by June 7, 2018).
• Say “Thank you!” and share a memory!Fill out this form to thank Superintendent Mack and share your memorieswith him (your message will appear in a commemorative book that will be presented to Superintendent Mack).
• Make a donation!Continue Superintendent Mack’s legacy and support Oshkosh Area School District educators and students for years to come by making a donation to the OASD Education Foundation in Superintendent Mack’s name.

Beiser Realty, LLC – Jon Jandrin has joined local real estate company, Beiser Realty, LLC. a non-franchised company with local roots and deep ties to the communities it serves. Jon, a Winneconne Native currently residing in Neenah, has an amazing passion for real estate.

WI Committee of Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) will be hosting an Employer Focus Group summit that will focus on the hiring of Guard, Reserve and veterans on Wednesday, April 11 in Mosinee. If you’re interested in learning how ESGR can assist with your recruitment efforts of military and veterans, or learning the best practices from other employers, please plan on attending.  See the invite here: 01 Invite 2018 Employer Focus Grp Mosinee Rev1 2018.04.11 

EAA announce the opportunity to advertise in the The Official EAA Visitor & Camper’s Guide. The guide is the go-to source when attending AirVenture. And, in 2017, AirVenture contributed more than $170 million in economic benefit to the Fox Valley. Learn more about how you can get your business in front of 500,000 people. Also announced: The centennial year of the Royal Air Force will be commemorated with historic aircraft, flyovers, and special programming during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The RAF’s 100th anniversary will be celebrated throughout the week, with a primary focus on the centennial on Tuesday, July 24.

Valley VNA Senior Care will be hosting “Aging with Grace, ” an elder care learning event on April 24th. There will be five engaging learning stations designed
around key issues for seniors. See the full event invite here: Aging With Grace Final Flyer A.

Fox World Travel announced dates for their Travel Manager Institute 2018. Today, a growing number of professionals from various backgrounds, such as human resources, procurement and finance take on the role of managing their organization’s travel. Often, these professionals don’t have a background in travel. To help these professionals keep up with the fast-paced industry, Fox World Travel created the Travel Manager Institute. The program will be held in Oshkosh  April 17-18.

ADVOCAP YouthBuild Oshkosh invites you to an open house on April 29 at 2 p.m. at 654 Frederick St. Oshkosh.  ADVOCAP YouthBuild is a construction based employment and training program for 16-24 year olds. The programs intent is to assist participants in overcoming employability barriers and guide them through individual pathways of success. Participants are near completion of building a certified Wisconsin Green Built Home in Oshkosh and you are invited to attend the open house.

 

Menominee Nation Arena announced Hmong Champion Duarn “The Storm” Vue to Fight for WBA Championship on April 28. Vue will enter the ring April 28 for the main event at Menominee Nation Arena to battle Nehomar Cermeno for the World Boxing Assocation (WBA) Intercontinental Featherweight Championship. Billed as “The Undisputable Truth” also featuring Deonte “Bomaye” Wilson, the night of championship boxing starts at 7 p.m. For tickets to “The Undisputable Truth” night of championship boxing, visit the Menominee Nation box office or www.menomineenationarena.com.

Ralph Harrison, veteran sales and marketing executive has joined the Menominee Nation Arena team as the Director of Marketing and Communications. A name familiar to many, Harrison has a long and successful career building brand awareness in the auto sales industry.

 

The Oshkosh Area United Way’s Community Celebration, included announcing the winner for 2017 Ford Focus sweepstakes. The car was the carrot used as an incentive to attract new donors or to encourage existing donors, to increase their giving in the United Way’s 2017 campaign. Campaign Co-Chairs; father and daughter team Dennis and Annie Elmer, announced the results of the 2017 campaign, which raised $1,273,560, and how deeply appreciative the United Way is for every dollar raised. Various businesses and organizations which ran outstanding employee campaigns, were recognized as were the gifts from a number of area foundations, and those companies that attained the 100% employee giving.

The Grand Oshkosh announces The Mersey Beatles, a Liverpool-born Beatles tribute band and the house band for over a decade at the world-famous Cavern Club, will perform on Thursday, May 3rd at 7:30 p.m. The Mersey Beatles are no ordinary tribute band. The lads grew up as childhood and schoolmate friends, just like The Beatles!  They are the official Beatles tribute band representing the City of Liverpool, and from 2002 to 2012, they were the resident tribute band at The Cavern Club, the nightclub in Liverpool, England, where The Beatles perfected their act before launching a global rock music revolution in the 1960s. John Lennon’s sister and Director of the Cavern Club endorses the band and traveled with them on their 40-date 2016 U.S. debut tour. To purchase tickets visit thegrandoshkosh.org. 

Appleton International Airport will host a TSA Pre✔® Enrollment event April 23-27.. TSA Pre✔® is an expedited screening program that enables enrolled travelers to enjoy a more efficient screening experience when traveling. TSA Pre✔® members do not need to remove shoes, 3-1-1 liquids, laptops, light outerwear or belts when using a TSA Pre✔® lane. TSA Pre✔® certification is $85 and is valid for five years. For more information, and to sign up visit ATWAirport.com/TSA-Pre-Check.

J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. announced that it acquired the hazmat placard-related assets of California-based Kresky Signs, Inc. These assets include dies, designs and intellectual property related to flip-page placard books for hazardous material identification on vehicles and containers to meet requirements of government agencies, such as the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). Purchasing the Kresky placards assets allows J. J. Keller to expand its portfolio of DOT placards and placard-based offerings.

Woodward Radio Group (WRG), a division of Woodward Communications, Inc., and Caxambas Corporation jointly announced that Woodward has agreed to acquire the 104.7 WBJZ(FM) radio signal transmitted from Berlin, WI from Caxambas Corporation.

 

March 2018

Chamber Member Happenings
Business After Hours
Chamber Golf Outing
MRA Surveys
Washington Fly-In
From the U.S. Chamber 
Member Spotlight: Plain Old DevOps
Monthly Events and Leadership Oshkosh Info Night
Save with Network Health
Post a Job: Nation Job

Chamber Member Happenings

EAA is having their Hops & Props on March 3^rd. You can enjoy over 300 types of beer, entertainment, and great food. General admission tickets are available for this event, which will be from 7-10 pm. Also at EAA, The Air Force Reserve is celebrating its 70^th anniversary with an impressive fleet of military refueling aircrafts as part of AirVenture’s “Year of the Tanker”. 

 

Oshkosh Corporation for the third time has been named one of the 2018 World’s Most Ethical Company by Ethisphere Institute. The company’s strong ethical culture has been highlighted and they are one of only 135 companies on this respected list. Oshkosh Corporation was also awarded the 2017 Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Award for outstanding achievements in manufacturing. The annual Manufacturer of the Year Awards Program recognizes Wisconsin companies that demonstrate a commitment to business excellence, which has a positive impact on the company and the state, making Wisconsin a better place to live, work and play. Oshkosh Corporation was part of the “Mega” category, based on the number of employees.

Congressman Glen Grothman will be hosting a job fair at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Neenah on Friday, March 23^rd from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.

 

Choice Bank is proud to announce the newest addition to their team. Fred Siemers joined Choice Bank as their Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer. Fred has over 25 years of progressive banking experience and also has extensive experience in commercial lending and years of effectively setting the strategic direction for a community bank.

 

United States Postal Service – Oshkosh – The Oshkosh Post Office will host a Passport Day event on Saturday, March 10th from 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM at the Oshkosh Main Post Office located at 1025 W. 20^th Ave. You can stop by to purchase a passport book or passport card without a reservation. For information on requirements, fees, and forms, visit travel.state.gov.

Day By Day Warming Shelter is hosting a Style Show & Dinner benefit at the end of next month, Mile of Style. Join in for fabulous fashions, fantastic raffles and a fun-filled evening among friends. You also have a chance of winning a week-long trip for two to Ocean City, Maryland. Get tickets.

 

Boys and Girls Club of Oshkosh is having a Youth of the Year dinner on March 22^nd to celebrate the achievements of its members and their effort to grow in Health & Wellness, Academic Success and Character & Leadership. The dinner will also recognize the Club’s largest youth achievement of 2018, the Youth of the Year. For tickets email [email protected] .

LifePromotions announced that Carla Frieders has been promoted to Corporate Development Coordinator. Carla has been with Life Promotions for ten years as the administrative assistant for the Development Department. Carla has exceptional skills in event management and administration and will be working alongside Dave Romenesko, Director of Development, on Lifest sponsorships and partnerships for “Life” events.

The Girls Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes will be having a Leadership Mentoring Event, “Cultivating Your Career” on March 8th at LaSure’s Banquet Hall. Success can mean many things to many people. Explore how women right here in our community have succeeded in their careers and more. Panelists: Ashley Foster, Learning and Development Operations Specialist, Footlocker.com/Eastbay; Jenni Molash, Human Resources Manager, Silver Star Brands; Kim Molitor, Principal and Relationship Manager, Windward Wealth Strategies, Inc.

Appleton International Airport is hosting a Wings for Autism event in partnership with The Arc of Fond du Lac, Allegiant Air, and the Transportation Security Administration in mid-May. Wings for Autism helps alleviate some of the stress people with disabilities and their families experience when traveling by air. ATW also announced that American Airlines is increasing flights to Chicago O’Hare International Airport starting in May. Along with that, they are also increasing the size of the aircrafts. This will increase service to the community and make traveling more convenient for frequent flyers.

Bayland Buildings, Inc.  – In an effort to continue this unprecedented growth Bayland has realigned the leadership team to strategically focus on efficiency, quality, value, client experience and employee career development. Bayland has made several notable changes including the hiring of Jordan Birshbach as a Project Superintendent, Kevin Verheyen as Agriculture Business Development and Preconstruction, and Michael Conroy recently joined the Agristeel division for Building Sales.

business after hours

Oshkosh Corporation & Bank First Oshkosh Chamber Open: August 13

It may be February, but it’s never to early to start practicing your swing for the Oshkosh Chamber Open.  Mark your calendars for August 13th for the 2018 Outing! Registration is now open for pairs and foursomes.  If you would like to get involved as a sponsor of this event contact [email protected].

Thank you to our 2018 Title Sponsors: Oshkosh Corporation and Bank First National.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

REgister your foursome or pair Now

 

MRA Surveys

In lieu of our regular wage and salary survey The Oshkosh Chamber has partnered with MRA to offer members the opportunity to contribute data that will directly empower your decision making. We are very excited about the comprehensive data we can offer our members with this partnership. Members of MRA and Non-members can participate in the upcoming surveys and we encourage your participation.

There will be several surveys coming up for your to participate in.

2018 Industrial & Production Trades Survey – Open from Feb. 27, 2018 – April 13, 2018

2018 Benchmark Compensation Survey – Open from Mar. 21, 2018 – May 4, 2018

Get the Calendar of Surveys pdf here.

*Register by clicking the image to the left

Chamber Washington fly-in

Oshkosh Chamber President & CEO along with several Chamber Members made their way to Washington this month for the annual Washington fly-in. This yearly event brings representatives from several Chambers of Commerce to Washington to discuss their collective interest in federal issues that directly affect the business community.

From the U.S. Chamber:

Small Businesses Love Tax Reform and are Bullish on the Economy

Small businesses are pumped about the economy.The Q1 Metlife & U.S. Chamber of Commerce Small Business Index shows a surge in confidence, moving up more than three points to 66.3.It’s the biggest jump in the Index since it was launched in 2017. Read More.

From the U.S. Chamber:

Here’s How the U.S. Chamber Would Rebuild and Modernize America’s Infrastructure

After decades of inaction, now is the time Washington should move on rebuilding and modernizing America’s infrastructure, the head of the U.S. Chamber declared. Read More.

Member Spotlight: Plain Old Devops

Plain Old DevOps started as a consulting company in Dec. of 2016, that focuses on new and emerging technologies and are committed to bringing those advantages to the Midwest.

Casey Niemuth, CEO & Co-Founder

Christopher Rennert, CTO & Co-Founder

Our Business brings the buzz words of the IT community to the Midwest: Integration, API, Environment Automation, and Continuous Pipelines for Faster Development. We offer consulting services, continued services, with 3D printing coming in the next few months. Every decision we make is made with a security first mindset. We enable our team to utilize any and all technology at a production level by ensuring knowledge is available to all from all. We target anyone and everyone. We pride ourselves on our diverse skill sets and enablement of our team members, and that means that we can assist with many different types of integrations from the corner store to fortune 500.

Since January 2018, we have doubled our staff, and now have even more skills to share with Oshkosh. Over the next few months we will begin offering Expanded Continued Services to assist customers in the management / migration of their current systems.

Learn more about Plain Old DevOps at www.plainolddevops.io

 

Save with network health:

To learn more about how your company can take advantage of the premium discount, call your insurance agent.

Learn more and See our List of Agents Members Here

Post a Job with Nation Job

 

 

 

 

February 2018

Chamber Website Launch
Chamber Member Happenings
Economic Outlook Breakfast
Business After Hours
Chamber Golf Outing
Business Outlook Survey Results
Senators Urge Trump to Modernize NAFTA
Member Spotlight: Wihlm Dental
New Business
Monthly Events
Seminars
Leading from the Top
Leadership Oshkosh Alumni Gathering
Oshkosh Chamber/Rhyme Business Expo
Save with Network Health

New chamber website

We launched a new look and now our new website is live. Check out our site!

Business Briefs

Oshkosh Corporation – Construction of new headquarters will take place on the site of the Lakeshore Golf Course off Lake Butte des Morts, near Interstate 41. Besides the unveiling, Oshkosh Corporation also announced a $600,000 donation to construct a one mile trail from the property to Rainbow Park, which everyone can use. The hope is to break ground with construction in May with completion in the fall of 2019. Take a tour of the headquarters at https://oshkoshhq.com/tour/. Oshkosh Corporation has also been recognized as one of FORTUNE’s World’s Most Admired Companies, which highlights some of the most respected and successful companies from around the world. This is the first time that Oshkosh Corporation has received this prestigious award and Oshkosh is one of only five Wisconsin-based companies named. This week Oshkosh Corp was awarded the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles A2 Contract from the U.S. Army. The initial contract value is $476 million with no cap on the number of additional vehicles that may be purchased.

Verve, a Credit Union will open a new branch on Washburn Avenue, with plans to open in late fall of 2018. The new full-service branch on Washburn Avenue will feature a drive-up as well as innovative banking technology including Expert Nearby, a video conferencing service allowing members to connect with Verve team members at other locations. Verve will announce details regarding the new branch such as opening date, location hours and employment opportunities as plans develop.

ThedaCare announced a new online Breast Cancer Risk Assessment tool. The tool is another way for patients to learn more about their risk, on their own time and at home. The Breast Cancer Risk Assessment poses a series of concise health-related questions, assessing lifestyle risk factors such as postmenopausal BMI (weight), smoking, alcohol habits and exercise; hereditary risk factors such as Ashkenazi Jewish descent, breast cancer in the immediate family, and the presence of the BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations; and personal history such as age and reproductive history.

West Side Association will again host a panel discussion featuring private local developers and business partners at their annual meeting on Thursday, February 15  at LaSures Banquet Hall.  For the past several years, West Side Association has piqued the interest of the business community by inviting local private businesses and developers to participate in a panel discussion of their current and future projects, giving us a glimpse of their vision for the future of Oshkosh.

This year’s panel members include:

Greg Pierce          Menominee Nation Arena
Bryan Brandt        Oshkosh Corporate Headquarters
Ben Ganther         The Howard (formerly the Eagles Club)
Stan Leedle          Choice Bank
Kyle Bach              The Annex Group (Lamico Site)
Steve Hoopman   Oshkosh Ave. development

WMC Foundation and the Milwaukee Business Journal have teamed up this year to bring you the Focus on Manufacturing Breakfast on February 23^rd at The Pfister Hotel, Milwaukee, which will feature top speakers discussing Wisconsin’s supply chain. More information is available at wmc.org.

Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services, Inc. has selected a new Executive Director, Beth Oswald. She has a successful track record with the CADASI and is passionate and committed to the organization. Beth will be sharing her vision for the CADASI as they work to end domestic abuse during a welcome event.

 

Schenck SC – The Manufacturing & Distribution team at Schenck, a full-service CPA and consulting firm, jointly published the results from the 2018 Leading Edge Alliance (LEA) National Manufacturing Outlook Survey. Optimism is high as manufacturers’ responses indicated they have a more positive outlook about the economy for 2018 than in 2017. The growing U.S. and global economies, rising energy and commodity prices, and improved business and consumer confidence support this positive outlook.

EAA’s skiplane fly-in is this month on the 10^th and will highlight this unique segment of flight that is popular throughout parts of North America. This year, one child, between the ages of 8 and 17, will have a chance to win the opportunity for a free Young Eagles flight. EAA will be having their annual Hops & Props next month. More than 300 extraordinary beverages are available from microbreweries and distributors from around the world. You will also have a chance to talk with the brewers themselves and learn about their brewing process and history.

Anchorage Realty Inc. recently announced the availability of new residential townhomes, self-storage units and commercial contractor rental space on the northeast side of town. The two six-unit townhomes are located at 2525 and 2601 Bowen Street, Oshkosh. The self-storage and commercial space features a state-of-the-art security camera system.

TEDxOshkosh Announces 2018 Speaker Pitch Night on February 26^th. TEDxOshkosh is seeking speakers for the 3^rd Annual TEDxOshkosh to be held on November 10^th, 2018 and will host a 2018 Speaker Pitch Night on Monday, February 26^th from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Waters at 1393 Washington Avenue in Oshkosh. The event is free and the public is encouraged to attend to hear those who aspire to be a TEDxOshkosh speaker. Visit tedxoshkosh.com for more details.

Oshkosh Public Museum – Starting this month through May, the Oshkosh Public Museum has a REPLAY exhibit, where pop culture fanatics can look back at stories, games and experiences from the past. This exhibit will have something for the entire family, whether it is LEGO, Teletubbies, or Rubix cubes. REPLAY is the ultimate throwback, combining mediums and artists and will make you feel like a kid again.

Shea Electric & Communications, LLC, is pleased to welcome a new electrician to our team!  Pat Yanke started as a new Journey Wireman this month.  Pat brings over 18 years of experience as a Licensed Journey Wireman.

Nigl Accounting LLP is pleased to announce the addition of two new employees to their growing team. Paula Thill joined the firm in November, and brings 16 years of local accounting firm experience. Chad Durkee joined the firm in December as a certified public accountant, and brings 4 years of regional firm experience.

The Girls Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes will be having a Leadership Mentoring Event, “Cultivating Your Career” on March 8th at LaSure’s Banquet Hall. Success can mean many things to many people. Explore how women right here in our community have succeeded in their careers and more. Panelists: Ashley Foster, Learning and Development Operations Specialist, Footlocker.com/Eastbay; Jenni Molash, Human Resources Manager, Silver Star Brands; Kim Molitor, Principal and Relationship Manager, Windward Wealth Strategies, Inc.

Candeo Creative welcomed three new team members last month. It hired Chad Fulwiler as account services director, Colleen Bies as traffic and finance manager, and Cassie Murray as media buyer.

Triple Win Strategies, LLC has welcomed Tim Raupp as their new Chief Executive Officer. Raupp will be responsible for overall direction and management of the company, focusing on strategic business development. He brings 39 years of experience with him, including international sales & marketing, customer relations, and product support. Raupp is also a recipient of the National Defense Industrial Association’s Edward M. Greer Award.

Investors Community Bank – ICB’s very own Tim Schneider, CEO, has been named one of the eight WBD Elite Lending Partners for 2017. This honor is given annually in recognition of success in helping small business get the financing they need to grow, create jobs and build communities. Tim has helped at least ten businesses move forward by partnering with WBD to provide his customers the low, long-term, fixed-rate financing available through the SBA 504 program. Mark Maurer, Vice President – Senior Business Banking Officer at Investors Community Bank also received this recognition in 2015.

Appleton International Airport continues its five consecutive year growth trend with 575,000 passengers in 2017, which is a 4.6 percent increase over 2016. Nonstop flights to Denver through United Express beginning June 8, 2018. This will be their 9^th nonstop flight destination that they offer.

Bayland Buildings, Inc. announced they have exceeded $100 million in sales as of December 2017. This is a new milestone for the company in their 26 year history. 70% of their sales were from repeat clients. In an effort to continue this unprecedented growth Bayland has realigned the leadership team to strategically focus on efficiency, quality, value, client experience and employee career development.

J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc.has merged two departments to form their Editorial & Consulting Services, which will be led by former senior director of consulting services, Steve Murray. This department includes more than 50 state agencies, including OSHA, DOT, and DOL. This has been done in hopes to strengthen the company’s regulatory expertise and allow for more streamlined operations in Editorial & Consulting Services.

TDS Telecom has been recognized on the new Forbes list, America’s Best Employers for Diversity. TDS Telecom, a wholly owned subsidiary of Telephone and Data Systems, Inc., is the seventh largest local exchange telephone company in the U.S. and a growing force in the cable industry. The company sponsors local diversity summits and also dedicates time educating employees about diversity. In fact, TDS has created Policy 104, which focuses solely on their commitment to diversity.

economic outlook breakfast: Registration Deadline – Feb 12

You still have time to register for this highly anticipated event sponsored by Ganther Construction and Architecture. Registrations must be made by 3 p.m. on Monday, February 12th. Register single registrations here. Or to register your Corporate Table of 8 contact Jessica Sosnoski at [email protected].

 

business after hours

Register here.

Oshkosh Chamber Golf Outing: August 13

It may be February, but it’s never to early to start practicing your swing for the Oshkosh Chamber Golf Outing. Mark your calendars for August 13th for the 2018 Outing! Registration will be opening February 19th.

2018 business outlook survey results

How’s business shaping up in Oshkosh for 2018? That is the question we asked local CEOs, business managers and owners. While it is impossible to predict our economic future with a high degree of specificity, locally Oshkosh is doing well and has a position of strength in the marketplace. This past year, employment remained strong. According to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, the November 2017 unemployment rate for Oshkosh remains below the national unemployment rate of 3.9 percent at 2.7 percent. This translates to having 606 more Oshkosh residents working now than the same time last year.

The results of the Oshkosh Chamber’s Annual Business Outlook Survey, a barometer that we use to gauge the degree of confidence of business leaders, is further indication that local businesses are bullish on what the economy holds for 2018. Of the local CEOs and business owners who participated in our annual Business Outlook Survey, 76 percent reported that sales increased in 2017 over the previous year, 79 percent indicated that profits were up, and 86 percent increased wages. When asked to forecast sales for 2018, 88 percent believe that sales will out-perform the previous year’s sales level and 60 percent expect to add employees. While this is all very good news, business leaders report that finding qualified workers remains a challenge, with 40 percent indicating they are having trouble hiring qualified employees. This could a potential obstacle to economic growth in the years to come.

Manufacturers plan to increase their raw material inventories in the first quarter of 2018 compared to the same quarter one year ago according to 92 percent of Oshkosh-based manufacturers. In the first quarter of 2018, 61 percent of retailers, wholesalers and manufacturers anticipate are higher volume of finished goods inventory over 2017 fourth quarter levels. These are indications of an expected sales volume increase in the months to come.

Optimism is high and local CEOs believe that the business climate has improved. CEOs indicated that the State of Wisconsin is heading in the right direction in terms of the business climate according to 84 percent of the respondents and 76 percent indicated the US business climate in headed in the right direction which is contrasted by 59 percent believing that the US was headed in the right direction last year. However, challenges remain. Local CEOs indicated that legislative measures should be taken to improve their business and the state’s business climate. Local CEOs stated the top three public policy issues facing Wisconsin are increasing health care cost, the labor shortage/the lack of qualified applicants, and the current tax climate.

CEOs, business managers and owners are probably some of the most optimistic personality types. True to form, our survey found Oshkosh business leaders inclined to be bullish on 2018 and cited a lot of reasons for that perspective, including the defense contract production by Oshkosh Corporation, along with its selection of Oshkosh for their future corporate campus, the addition of the Menominee Nation Arena, the Wisconsin Herd (G-League developmental team), a diverse business base, an emerging information technology business sector, higher employment rates and stronger consumer confidence. This should be a boost for the marketplace. There appears to be good traction in the business community. Businesses are focusing on growth and addressing challenges. Moving forward, we will build on the great gains and achievements of the business community to solidify and generate economic growth.

John Casper, President & CEO – Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce

Johnson, GOP Senators Urge President Trump to Modernize NAFTA

member spotlight: wihlm dental

new business

Granary Brew Pub – Learn More

O-Town Iron – Learn More

 

 

 

Stay and Play Ruff House – Learn More

monthly events

Where: Fire Escape Art Studio & Gallery, 423 N. Main Street. When: February 16 @ 12 p.m.

 

Register here for Social Hub.   Register here for A.M. Oshkosh.

leading from the top – feb. 28

leadership oshkosh alumni gathering – feb. 21

5 p.m. -8 p.m., Wednesday, February 21, 2018 @ The Waters, 1393 Washington Ave., Oshkosh

Network with fellow Leadership Oshkosh alumni  and the current 2018 class. Attend for a chance to win a one-night say at the Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake. Must be present to win. Pass this along to your classmates. The class with the most attendees earns a $100 gift card from the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation to go towards an Oshkosh area nonprofit of the class’ choice.

Register by February 14th by calling 920-303-2266 or email [email protected]. Attention Alumni: If your contact information is changing and you’d like to stay up to date on LO Alumni Informaition please contact us at 920-303-2266.

Oshkosh Chamber Business Expo 2018

Oshkosh-area businesses and local residents packed the Oshkosh Convention center Thursday, January 25th for the 2018 Business Expo presented by the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce and Rhyme. More than 90 businesses turned out for this annual event to showcase their products and services and to make new business contacts. Booths were decked out for the “Business at the Beach” theme. Prizes were awarded to the best booths: First Place: Fletcher Chiropractic, Second Place: Best Western Premier Hotel & Conference Center and Third Place: Verve, a credit union.

Exhibitors and guests also took part in a morning State of Community Address thanks to our presenters: Andrew Leavitt, Chancellor: University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Mark Harris, County Executive: Winnebago County, Melissa Kohn, Director – Oshkosh Campus: Fox Valley Technical College, Mark Rohloff, City Manager: City of Oshkosh, and  Dr. David Gundlach, Deputy Superintendent: Oshkosh Area School District. Two free educational seminars were also offered during the day. Thank you to Chris Henry of EAA, and Angela Damiani of NEWaukee for presenting to attendees. Also a big thank you to our Seminar Rooms Sponsor The Business News.

The Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce has recognized Network Health for providing high-quality and cost-effective health plan solutions to Oshkosh-area employers. This partnership will exclusively provide Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce members in Winnebago county with innovative alternatives to costly premiums.

With Network Health’s Assure product, Oshkosh-area employers are able to provide their employees with quality coverage at an affordable cost. The Assure product is a level-funded plan which means employers can benefit from the predictable, fixed monthly rates of a fully-insured plan but only pay for the health care that employees actually get.

Save with network health

To learn more about how your company can take advantage of the premium discount, call your insurance agent. The following are the Network Health Plan Chamber Member authorized insurance agents:

5Gbenefits, LLC – 920-251-9004

Ann Menke Insurance Services – 920-251-5211

Ansay & Associates – 920-235-2764

Associated Financial Group – 920-731-0400

Diedrich Agency – 920-232-4090

Forsite Benefits – 920-593-1911

Hanson Benefits, Inc. – 920-955-1040

Jackson Kahl Insurance – 920-231-5727

JWA Insurance Services – 920-237-5544

Mc Clone Agency – 920-232-4001

Murken Insurance  – 920-651-1500

Richards Insurance – 920-235-1980

T.I.C., Inc – 920-734-8735

Valley Insurance Associates – 920-235-3450