01.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN

upcoming EVENTS \\

Small Business X-ChangeWednesday, January 8, 2014 \\ 7:30 am - 8:30 amPortage County Business Council, Foundation Room5501 Vern Holmes Drive | Stevens Point, WI 54482

» REGISTER

Annual DinnerTuesday, January 28, 2013 \\ 5:30 pm - 8:00 pmHoliday Inn Hotel & Convention Center1001 Amber Avenue | Stevens Point, WI 54482

» REGISTER

Business After HoursMonday, February 17, 2014 \\ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pmFlexible Fitness Solutions, Flexible Nutrition Solutions, Stevens Point Curling Club & USA Curling5501 E. M. Copps Drive | Stevens Point, WI 54482

» REGISTER

American Agriculture Appreciation BanquetMonday, March 10, 2014 \\ 6:00 pm - 8:45 pmsite to be announced

» REGISTER

IN THIS ISSUE \\

2014 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS SCHEDULE

BUSINESS BRIEFS

SMALL BUSINESS EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITIES

NEW MEMBERS

MEMBER OF THE MONTH - ZOROPHOTO

ANNUAL DINNER & SILENT AUCTION

GOLDEN APPLE AWARD NOMINATIONS BEING ACCEPTED

LEADERSHIP PORTAGE COUNTY DECEMBER SESSION SUMMARY

AMBASSADORS GIVE BACK IN MANY WAYS

WILLE TO RECEIVE PRESIDENT’S AWARD

UWSP INTERNSHIPS OFFERED THROUGH SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMIC DEV

AGRI-BUSINESS SCHOLARSHIPS

OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS TO AGRICULTURE AWARD NOMINATIONS SOUGHT

SAVE THE DATE FOR THE AG BANQUET

BUSINESS DAY IN MADISON 2014

THIS LOOKS DIFFERENT!We’ve made several changes this year to the layout of our monthly newsletter. We hope you find it easier to navigate! The front page includes a calendar of our upcoming events as well as a full list of articles in this month’s newsletter. If you’re reading this as a pdf online, you can click each article title and jump directly to that page. We hope you like the changes and welcome your feedback. Please email your comments to admin@portagecountybiz.com.

Did you know that we include hundreds of links in the newsletter every month? You can click on any email address, website address, logo, or the capitalized green text at the beginning of an article that might say something like “REGISTER” OR “APPLICATION FORM”.

Happy New Year from your friends at the Portage County Business Council!

New and renewing members - watch for your 2014 window cling to arrive in the next 4-6 weeks!

MEMBER 2014

THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER02

The new owners of Pat’s CARSTAR of Plover, Tony and Sharon Kempen, carried on the Recycled Rides tradition started by former owners Pat and Sandy Arnold Dec. 4, when they donated a used vehicle to a local family.

The Arnolds and Kempens were on hand to present Lynnette Woyak and her family of four children with a 2003 Honda Odyssey minivan.

“We are proud to continue the tradition of giving back to the community,” said Tony Kempen, who, along with his wife, recently purchased the auto body repair business from his aunt and uncle. “The Woyaks are a great family, and everybody here, and everybody that helped us get the vehicle ready to go, is happy to be able to help them out with this vehicle.”

For the past six years Pat’s CARSTAR has worked with CAP Services to provide a vehicle to a deserving local family who has less than reliable transportation means. In addition to Pat’s CARSTAR and CAP, Keystone Automotive, Schierl Tire, Badger Motors, Hertz, and the Shawn Pagel family helped make the vehicle donation possible this year.

To find a family in need of a vehicle, Pat’s CARSTAR partners with CAP Services, a local private, nonprofit organization, to identify the family. Nearly 20 families applied for the opportunity to get the vehicle – a subcommittee

of CAP’s Board of Directors made the final selection.

Pat’s CARSTAR’s vehicle donation tradition began with the National Auto Body Council’s (NABC) Recycled Rides program. Recycled Rides, launched in 2007, is a nationwide awareness program where collision repair members of the NABC repair and donate used vehicles to families in need in their communities.\\

On Tuesday, Dec. 17, NORTHSTAR Health System leaders announced to employees and medical staff that they have signed letters of intent to affiliate with the Aspirus health system, headquartered in Wausau, Wis. Leaders expect to finalize the transaction by Jan. 31, 2014. Aspirus has offered to retain the positions of all staff members at their current pay and benefits rates.\\

Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group is pleased to announce their Stevens Point office’s November Chairman’s Circle list:

Todd ReillyTiffany BroeckerLaura Trzebiatowski Betty Garski \\

With tax season just around the corner, local organizations and volunteers are once again gearing up to offer free tax assistance to Portage County senior citizens, and low- and moderate-income individuals and families.

Starting Wednesday, Jan. 8, eligible Portage County residents can schedule a free tax appointment with a trained tax preparer by dialing United Way’s 2-1-1 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tax preparation services start February 1 and run through April 12.

The VITA program offers free tax help to people who make $51,000 or less and need assistance in preparing their own tax returns. IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals in local communities.

The United Way of Portage County, through 2-1-1, also works with the Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) Lincoln Center and the Portage County Public Library to offer free tax preparation services targeted at senior citizens through the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program. \\

The Business Briefs column is an avenue to spotlight noteworthy business and professional accomplishments, recognition and awards among our Business Council members. Submit items of interest, in 100 words or less, to: admin@portagecountybiz.com by the 24th of the month prior to the next newsletter issue.

business BRIEFS \\

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS2.17.14 \\ 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM» REGISTER » MAP

HOSTS\

FLEXIBLE FITNESS SOLUTIONSFLEXIBLE NUTRITION SOLUTIONSSTEVENS POINT CURLING CLUBUSA CURLINGHeld at: Flexible Fitness Solutions & Flexible Nutrition Solutions5501 E.M. Copps Drive(located on the north end of the Portage County Business Park)Stevens Point, WI 54482

Enjoy complimentary hor d’oeuvres, refreshments, and door prize giveaways.No Cost to attend!Pre-registration is appreciated.Please RSVP by Friday, February 14, 2014.

The Business Council is pleased to announce the following 2014 Business After Hours hosts:

February 17 – Flexible Fitness Solutions, Flexible Nutrition Solutions, USA Curling & Stevens Point Curling ClubMarch 17 – Emmons Business InteriorsApril 21 – Ambulatory Surgical Center & Klasinski ClinicMay 19 – Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors BureauJune 16 – River View Lodge Assisted LivingJuly 21 – ZoroPhotoAugust 18 – Arts Alliance of Portage CountySeptember 15 – Ministry Medical Group Occupational MedicineOctober 20 – SentryWorld Sports CenterNovember 17 – Puroclean Restoration Professionals & AFLACDecember 16 – Thrivent Financial

If Business After Hours is not in your planner yet, now is the time to pencil it in! Would you like to promote your business, share ideas and make important business contacts? You can do this and more, by sponsoring a Business After Hours. It’s not too early to book for 2015.

Host businesses can promote their facility, staff and/or new products or services to nearly 100 area business people. Small businesses may wish to host this event at a member restaurant, larger facility, or co-sponsor the event with another Business Council member.

A host business provides the location, refreshments and hors d’oeuvres during the Business After Hours. In addition, the host business may choose to sponsor a door prize for the evening. The Business Council will assist in the invitation, marketing, registration and door prize drawing.

For more information on hosting a Business After Hours call Karen Schanock at the Business Council Office, 715-344-1940 or email at kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com.

2014 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS SCHEDULE

0301.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN

» REGISTER> Continental Breakfast served> No cost to attend but the value of the information may be priceless!

SPONSOR

TOPIC: “BE THE MESSAGE”This X-Change will cover a brief review of historically memorable speeches and identify how each of us leaves non-verbal clues all the time; both in presentation mode and in day-to-day work and lives. The program will end with a call to positive action by everyone in attendance.

What you will learn as a result of attending: • Effective communication rarely takes on shape/ form of a Gettysburg Address. • True, authentic communications means YOU ARE THE MESSAGE! • Most communication is actually non-verbal. • We can each communicate more effectively!

ABOUT OUR PRESENTERKen McKenzie is a career communicator; an ag journalism graduate of University of Wisconsin - Madison and life student of the human communication process. Ken is a certified sales coach, consultant and trainer from Institute for Busi-ness Growth and Slingshot Sales Success Advisor along with host to ELEVATE Your Leaders training program in a 14-county area in central Wisconsin utilizing unique learning framework through TMG Leadership.

ABOUT SMALL BUSINESS X-CHANGEThe X-Change is a roundtable presentation which allows small business owners and their employees the opportunity to discuss pertinent topics, learn from local industry leaders and, most importantly, learn from each other. Small Business X-Change meets regularly throughout the year from 7:30 - 8:30am at the Portage County Business Council office.

SMALL BUSINESS X-CHANGE1.8.14 \\ 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM

PCBC FOUNDATION ROOM

ARE YOU OR SOMEONE ELSE FROM YOUR BUSINESS INTERESTED IN SPEAKING AT ONE OF OUR UPCOMING X-CHANGES?Business Council members are invited to submit workshop proposals to be considered for presenta-tion at our monthly 2014 Small Business X-Change Programs. This is a great opportunity to share new initiatives and proven practices with others in the Central Wisconsin business community. It allows you to highlight your business and the work you do.

All workshops are offered free-of-charge to Portage County Business Council members; no honorariums are paid.

Proposals must include the following:• Workshop title• Workshop description (a brief outline of what will be covered during the presentation)• Three or four key points that the participant will learn as a result of attending• Presenter name, title and relevant background• Relevant training experience

Benefits of Presentation and Sponsorship:• Company recognition as Presenting Sponsor of X-Change• Company name, program outline and logo in Business Council newsletter

• Company logo displayed on Small Business X-Change webpage (including a “link” to company website) – prominent location• Company name and logo in emails to over 1500 member contacts announcing event• Electronic registration list of attendees• Net result of better awareness of what you and your company could do for a potential client• Survey results after the presentation

Expectations:• $50 Sponsorship fee • 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. workshop should be one hour in length (includes introduction and Q&A)• Speaking topics could include any myriad of topics especially relevant to a small business that will facilitate improving management, coping with the economic environment, etc. It’s really a wide open field. Presenters are advised not to use their presentation as a platform or commercial for promotion of their products and services or for monetary gain.• Handouts, copies of Power Points, etc. are ex-pected and are the responsibility of the presenter/company sponsor• Equipment/Office Supplies available for use include: Projector, Overhead Screen, Podium, Dry Erase Board/markers and Flip Cart/Paper. WiFi is also available. Please note, laptops are not provided.• A light morning snack will be available including coffee, juice, water, fresh fruits, some danish, etc.

All Small Business X-Change programs are held at the Portage County Business Council office confer-ence room. The current available dates are the following:

February 12th - RESERVED by LouAnn Schulfer of Schulfer & Associates LLC Financial ProfessionalsMarch 12th - RESERVED by Tina Grezinski from Exceling Your Business LLCApril 9th May 14th June 11th July 9th August 13th September 10th October 8thNovember 12thDecember 10th

Written proposals are due by January 31, 2014. Email preferred. If approved, the presentation will be reviewed in advance. The usual attendance is 20-25; an estimate number of participants will be provided at least 24-hours prior to the date of the presentation.

Please submit proposals in writing to: Karen Schanock, Portage County Business Council, 5501 Vern Holmes Drive, Stevens Point, WI 54482. FAX: 715-344-4473. Ph: 715-344-1940E-mail: kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com Thank you for your consideration.

THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER04

Each month the Active Voice features a PCBC “Member of the Month” selected from a list of members that begins with the same letter of the alphabet. January features a business that begins with the letter “Z”.member of the MONTH

ZOROPHOTO9410 County Road SS \\ Amherst Junction, WI(715) 581-8845 \\ http://www.zorophoto.com \\ zorophoto@gmail.com \\Join Date \\ 05/12/2011

What they have to say \\

Happy New Year to all the Portage County Business Council Members! 2013 was an especially memorable year for us. Our favorite moment this year would have to be having the Portage County Business Council Ambassadors come out for a Ribbon Cutting, celebrating our first year at our studio’s new location, pictured below.

Anna Zoromski-Linde has been in the photography field for over 10 years. She started working at the Wausau Daily Herald, and soon after moved to Denver, Colorado where she worked and studied photography.

ZoroPhoto is currently located in heart of Nelsonville, WI; a short 15 minute drive from downtown Stevens Point. We specialize in fresh, modern wedding portraiture. We use a twist on traditional photography by using our editorial & photojournalism background to create vivid images that capture a couples’ love. Anna’s favorite part of her job is has to be watching a couple’s love grow in to a family and being able to document it throughout the years.

The connection we create with our couples is very important to us. Being a proud member of the Portage County Business Council since May of 2011, not long after relocating back to Central Wisconsin was very valuable to us in that we created new connections with local businesses. Every member has a story to tell and we all have something to learn from one another.

In 2014 we look forward to hosting a business after hours at our renovated studio and hope to see you there!

CNALLAN ROTHWELLPlover \\ 715-423-8300 \\ http://www.cn.ca \\allan.rothwell@cn.ca \\ Join Date \\11/8/2013About \\CN is a true backbone of the economy, transporting approximately 250 billion dollars worth of goods annually for a wide range of business sectors ranging from resource products to manufactured products to consumer goods, across a rail network spanning Canada and mid America.CN has a large presence in Portage County with a major railcar switching yard and mechanical shop in Stevens Point. CN’s Stevens Point Depot also houses the US National Customer Service Center along with professional Engineering functions for Wisconsin and Minnesota. CN acquired the former Wisconsin Central in October 2001.

BROADWAY RENTAL CARS D/B/A HERTZJULIE VAN SISTINEAbout \\Hertz has moved into your neighborhood at Pat’s CARSTAR at 3021 MacArthur Way in Plover.Our Hertz Franchise, owned by Broadway Automotive in Green Bay, currently operates two off airport locations in Green Bay as well as services the Austin Straubel and Central Wisconsin Airport. General Manager Karen VanSistine notes; we offer a “local flavor” and also have direct access to the Hertz national rental reservation system, and benefits significantly from the worldwide respect for the Hertz brand. Hertz has over 2,100 rental locations in the United States.Benefits you’ll find with Hertz:-Affordable leisure and accident rental rates-Unlimited mileage-Clean, low mileage vehicles-One way rentals-Convenient Pick up and Return Service at your local business.-Hertz #1 Club Gold which is aimed at frequent renters and offers customers the fastest way to rent a car!

JZ ESTHETICSJESSICA ZSCHERNITZAbout \\I’ve recently started JZ Esthetics LLC, offering services such as hair treatments, hair removal, make-up and advanced skin care. Since working in this industry, beginning in 2005, I’ve had many great opportunities such as working with Miss Teen Wisconsin, Anna Katner, as her make-up and hairstylist. I’ve also partnered up with John Hartman this past year to provide makeovers for any style portrait! I’m proud now to be working with the American Cancer Society as a volunteer in the Look Good Feel Better program. I may only be one person but I’m here trying to make a big difference.

a bit aboutOUR NEWEST MEMBERS \\

DO YOU KNOW A LOCAL BUSINESS THAT WOULD BENEFIT FROM MEMBERSHIP?CONTACTMary Jo Monday715-344-1940 \\ mmonday@portagecountybiz.com

01.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN 05

ANNUAL DINNER & SILENT AUCTION

Winners of the Decree of Excellence Award, Ambassador of the Year Award, Small Business of the Year and the President’s Award will all be recognized during the Portage County Business Council’s Annual Dinner and Silent Auction on Tuesday, January 28.

Held at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center, the evening extravaganza promises to be exciting with a social hour with complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar.

Those in attendance will also have the opportunity to bid on an endless list of Silent Auction items. The Business Council wishes to thank all businesses who have contributed.

The Business Council extends an invitation to all Business Council members and their guests to attend the Annual Dinner. Reservations are due by Wednesday, January 22, 2014 and can be made by calling the Business Council at 715/344-1940 or online by clicking link above.

Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center1001 Amber Avenue

Stevens Point, WI 54482

Social5:30-6:50PM

Complimentary Hors d’ oeuvres, Cash Bar

Silent Auction5:30-6:50PM

A spectacular array of jewelry, artwork, travel, sports and entertainment packages

Dinner & Program6:50-8:00PM

Choose from three mouth-watering entrees:1. 10 oz. Applewood Smoked Bacon Wrapped Sirloin, served with Herb Roasted Baby Reds and Green Beans with Toasted Almonds

2. Salmon with Dill Sauce, served with Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes and Fresh Vegetable Blend3. Eggplant Parmesan, served over Fresh Pasta

Entrees also include a Garden Salad with Ranch & French Dressings, Freshly Baked Bread, Bourbon Pecan Pie for Dessert, Coffee, Tea and Milk.

AwardsPresentation of Ambassador of the Year – Dorothy Pientka

Small Business of the Year – The Pineries Bank Decree of Excellence - TBD

And the 2013 President’s Award Recipient –Sue Wille, Ligman & Wille CPA LLC

Master of CeremoniesWSAW NewsChannel 7 Anchor Jeff Thelen

Special thanks to our Award Sponsors AT&T, CliftonLarsonAllen LLP, and Delta Dental of Wisconsin

And thanks to our Reception Sponsor – Marshfield Clinic

Opportunities are available for our members wishing to play a greater role in our Annual Dinner. Please contact Karen Schanock for sponsorship information at 715-344-1940 or kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com. Thank you for your support.

01.28.14 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM

HOLIDAY INN HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTER

presented by

» CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER06

2014 PLATINUM PIE INVESTORSGOLDEN APPLE AWARD NOMINATIONS BEING ACCEPTED» CLICK HERE FOR NOMINATION FORMThe Golden Apple Awards, seeks to honor innovative educators who incorporate community and business collaborations in their classroom. The Golden Apple winners will be honored in May 2014. Each recipient will receive a cash award to be used toward their innovative techniques in their classrooms.

Lori Jones, a 2013 Recipient wrote the following:“Dear Portage County Business Council Foundation, I was a lucky recipient of a Golden Apple last May. …I am a special education teacher for students with cognitive disabilities. I always encourage students to be fit and active. With the money I purchased two bikes – one is a small adult-sized tricycle and the other is a young adult sized recumbent bike. They can be ridden inside or out on the playground. Thank you so much for helping me to purchase these bikes for my students!”

To nominate a teacher or counselor deserving of a Golden Apple Award, click above or contact Bill Christiansen at fdn@portagecountybiz.com for a nomination form. Nomination forms are due March 1, 2014. Let our great educators know that their efforts are appreciated and worthy of recognition.

LEADERSHIP PORTAGE COUNTY REACHES MID-POINT IN THE CLASS YEAR ANDRECRUITING BEGINS FOR THE 2014-15 CLASS YEAR!

Leadership Portage County met for their sixth session on December 19th at the Midwest Renewable Energy Association. The leadership topic the day was ‘Managing Conflict in the Workplace’, with a community focus on the ‘The Environment.’

Special thanks to our guest presenters, Justin Isherwood, Scott Froelke, Jen McNell and Doug Stingle. We also want to thank the MREA for hosting our session. This brings us to the half-way point in the 2013-14 LPC program and it’s also time to begin recruiting for next year’s class. For more information contact Bill Christiansen, Director of Foundation at fdn@portagecountybiz.com. Here are a few photos from this year’s activities to date.

FALL 2013 REALITY SHOP WAS A BIG HIT WITH STUDENTS!The Reality Shop, held at SPASH on Dec.3rd, gave approximately 176 students from SPASH the opportunity to experience the challenges of balancing a monthly family budget. A special thanks to the 38 business volunteers who took time from their work schedules to ‘staff the shopping tables’, Brigitta Altmann, the College and Career Readiness Coordinator at SPASH and her staff for their assistance and the SPASH kitchen staff for supplying coffee and treats for the volunteers. In our online exit survey, 87.9% of students said they would get more education after high school, 93.9% said they learned the value of making wise financial deci-sions and the same percentage 93.9% said they would save more money. Students were also asked the following question; “What did you learn today that surprised you the most?” Here are few of the answers. “The cost of things is very expensive. Heath care without my job providing it was insane.” “All of the privileges that I have today will take a lot of money to keep in the future.” “I learned how difficult it is to support a family. I learned the importance of budgeting and prioritizing!” “Child support costs a lot more than I thought.” And finally, “Growing up sucks more than I already thought it did!”

The dates for the next two ‘Reality Shops’ are February 19, 2014 at St. Peter’s Middle School and April 9, 2014 at SPASH. The spring ‘Reality Shop’ at SPASH also includes the Alternative High School, Amherst and Rosholt. If you’d like to be a vol-unteer or learn more about the ‘Reality Shop’ experience contact Bill Christiansen, Director of Foundation at fdn@portagecountybiz.com.

A tour of Paragon Potato Farms. Small group discussions on the topic of diversity. Taking a tour to learn more about the Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum, a successful non-profit.

01.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN 07

AMBASSADORS GIVE BACK IN MANY WAYS - THANK YOU!» CLICK HERE FOR MORE PHOTOS OF AMBASSADORS ON FACEBOOKVolunteers are the lifeblood of any non-profit organization! For us, one of the most active and visible group of volunteers are part of the Ambassadors Club, which consists of 31 people. Our Ambassadors attend many ribbon cutting ceremonies, grand opening celebrations, ground breakings, many meetings and Business Council and Foundation events. Members of this enthusiastic group generally lend a hand whenever they see something that needs doing! Last year alone they gave back over 1,700 hours of volunteer time. That is truly amazing! Many thanks to our terrific goodwill Ambassadors!

Owners Sharon & Tony Kempen cut the ribbon for Pat’s CARSTAR. General Manager of Hertz, Karen VanSistine, provides welcome.

Ambassadors attended the ribbon cutting ceremonies on December 4, 2013 for Pat’s CARSTAR and Broadway Rental Cars, Inc d/b/a Hertz located at 3021 MacArthur Way in Plover, WI.

SUE WILLE TO RECEIVE PRESIDENT’S AWARD

» CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATIONThe School of Business and Economics (SBE) at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point has majors in business administration, accounting and economics. SBE majors complete core courses in economics, accounting, marketing, production and management information systems. They are eager to get “real world” experi-ence and apply their coursework to a business setting. If you have work that needs to be done an intern can help! Contact Professor Barbara Mihm, SBE internship director, at 715-341-6768 or bmihm@uwsp.edu.

UWSP INTERNSHIPS OFFERED THROUGH THE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS

SUE WILLEThe Portage County Business Council will present Sue Wille from Ligman & Wille CPA LLC, the 2013 President’s Award.

“Sue Wille of Ligman & Wille CPA LLC was selected by the 2013 PCBC Board President, Dave McHone, due to her dedication to the Portage County Business Council, the PCBC Foundation work and the Economic Development efforts for our Portage Countycommunity. Sue and her company have actively supported and sponsored numerous programs on behalf of the PCBC and the community at large. As a member of the PCBC Executive committee, Sue has consistently provided the experience and focus we need, as we look to the future for the organization. Sue has been an active community leader and is highly respected by the major business leaders of our county. This respect for her leadership is equally supported by the municipalities as she has worked hard to find opportunities for us to work as a team in support of the future growth and expansion of businesses for our community.” says McHone.

Sue moved to Portage County in 1984 when she and her husband Ron purchased a dairy farm near Junction City. Sue has more than 30 years of experience in public accounting and over 35 years in tax preparation services. She worked for the CPA firm Cavanaugh Ligman from 1985 to 2001 when Ligman & Wille CPA, LLC was formed, a partnership between Ron Ligman and Sue Wille. At Ligman & Wille CPA, LLC, Sue focuses on individual and small business accounting services, including tax preparation, financial statements, payroll, and business advisory services. Ligman & Wille CPA, LLC volunteers as an accounting advisor to the staff of the Wisconsin Lions Foundation. Sue and Ron Ligman also received the Henry Check Volunteer Service Award for service as a financial consultant.

Sue’s community involvement over the years has included dedication to the Portage County Business Council and the Business Council Foundation, serving on the Board of Directors, Executive Board and as Secretary/Treasurer since 2010. She also was Secretary/Treasurer of the Portage County Holstein Breeders Association for over 10 years and has been a member of the Portage County June Dairy Day Committee since 1990. Sue and husband Ron also hosted the June Dairy Day event for Portage County in 1990. Sue is married to Ron Wille. They have two children – Stephanie and Ron, and two grandchildren – twin girls.

Sue Wille will receive the President’s Award at the Business Council Annual Dinner on January 28th -- a celebration and recognition of current and past accomplishments of the Portage County Business Council.

NOMINATIONS SOUGHT FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS TO AGRICULTURE AWARD» CLICK HERE FOR NOMINATION FORMThe Portage County Business Council is seeking nominations for the 2014 Outstanding Contributions to Agriculture Award to be presented at the American Agriculture Appreciation Banquet on March 10, 2014. The award is presented to an individual or organization that excels in the agriculture field.

Nominee Award Criteria:

*Nominees are over age 35.*May include farmers, marketers, processors, or individuals involved in related areas of education, government or allied industry segments of agriculture.*Individual has furthered agriculture’s interest or development in production or marketing.*Individual has made significant contributions in agriculture related organizations.*Individual/organization has not received the award in the past three years.

Past Winners Include:

2013Paul Clasen, Retired, Rural Insurance2012Ken Schroeder, Portage County UW-Extension2011Dale Bowe, Wisconsin Public Service Corporation2010Wayne Ganser, Retired, Jay-Mar, Inc.2009Tim Pederson, Agriculture Teacher from Amherst High School2008Dick Okray – Okray Family Farms

Nominations will be taken for the award through Monday, February 3, 2014. All nominations are confidentially reviewed by a selection committee of the Portage County Business Council Agri-Business Committee.

AGRI-BUSINESS SCHOLARSHIPS TO AWARD $1,000» CLICK HERE FOR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONThe Agri-Business Committee of the Portage County Business Council will award up to $1,000 in scholarships at the American Agriculture Appreciation Banquet on Monday, March 10, 2014. Application forms and a list of scholarship criteria are available at the Business Council office and on our web site. Forms are also available at any Portage County High School Guidance office.

2013 Agri-Business Scholarship Recipients:Brian Hoffmann – Amherst, son of John and Arlene HoffmanMike Sankey – Amherst, son of Lonnie and Tammy Sankey

Applications are due by Friday, February 21, 2014. Contact Karen Schanock at 715-344-1940 or kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com for additional scholarship information.

SAVE THE DATE AND PLAN TO BE PART OF...AMERICAN AGRICULTURE APPREICATION BANQUET» CLICK HERE TO REGISTERSave this date and plan to be part of…American Agriculture Appreciation BanquetMonday, March 10, 2014Site to be announced

6:00 – 7:00PM – Social7:00 – 8:15PM – Dinner & Awards8:15 – 8:45PM – Keynote Presenter

To register online: click above or call the Business Council office at 715/344-1940.

Watch for more details in the upcoming February newsletter.

THE ACTIVE VOICE \\ PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL NEWSLETTER08

2013 Recipient Paul Clasen

February 6, 2014

12th Annual

Business Dayin Madison

A program presented in partnership with the WMC Foundation, Inc.

What’s the future of our nation’s economy, and the future of our political leadership? Attend Business Day in Madison onFebruary 6, 2014 and look into the crystal ball that will help us steer a path toward profitability. The 2014 program willcover politics, the economy, international affairs, and leadership.

Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center, Madison

Please be our guest at theWelcome Reception on February 5, 2014 at The Madison Club.No charge for program registrants. Fee: $30/person if not registered to attend Business Day in Madison.

State Agency Secretaries and Wisconsin State Legislators will be invited.

Robert O’NEILLTeam leader, NavalSpecial WarfareDevelopment Group;Retired member SealTeam Six

Never Quit: TheStory of a Life Builton SuccessfulMissions

A.B. STODDARDAssociate Editor andColumnist for The Hill

Politics and PublicPolicy—2014 andBeyond

Charles PAYNEFounder, CEO & Chief Analyst ofWallStreet Strategies; Fox BusinessNetwork Contributor; Award-winning Author

It Can Still Be Morning inAmerica

POLITICS ECONOMYLEADERSHIP

GUESTSPEAKER

GovernorScottWALKER

Wednesday - February 5

5:00-7:00 p.m. Welcome Reception

ursday - February 6

7:30-9:00 a.m. VIP Breakfast (sponsors only)

9:00-10:15 a.m. Robert O’Neill

10:30-11:45 a.m. A.B. Stoddard

12:00-1:15 p.m. Luncheon and KeynoteCharles Payne

1:30-2:30 p.m. Daniel Christman

2:30-3:00 p.m. Governor Scott Walker

3:00 p.m. Adjourn or Legislative Visits

INTERNATIONALAFFAIRS

Daniel CHRISTMANSenior Counselor to U.S.Chamber President

ATour of a ChallengedWorld

Registration RatesIndividual rate - Early bird rate: $135 per person, or regular rate: $165Table of 8 - Eary bird rate: $980 per table, or regular rate: $1,220 per table

For more information go to: www.businessdayinmadison.com

01.2014 \\ PORTAGE COUNTY, WISCONSIN 09

January 2014

1 Office Closed - Holiday9 Ambassador Club Meeting, 8:00am, PCBC15 Executive Committee, 7:30am, Anderson O’Brien22 PCBC/F Board of Directors, 7:30am, PCBC

meetings & other DATES \\

Executive BoardKeith Pilger - President, Anderson O’Brien Ken Erler - Vice President, Sentry InsuranceDavid McHone - Past President , Central WI Management Services, LLCSue Wille - Treasurer, Ligman & Wille CPA LLCErik Carlson - Member at Large, Ellis Stone Construction CompanyLisa Sobczak - Member at Large, ABR Employment ServicesDoug Ballweg - Member at Large, Delta Dental of WisconsinLori Dehlinger, Executive Director, Portage County Business Council, Inc.

Board of DirectorsTom Altmann - Altmann Construction CompanyLorraine Avery - Associated BankLisa Bourget - Travel Guard, Inc.Patty Dreier - Portage County ExecutiveDavid Eckmann - University of Wisconsin - Stevens PointJim Firminhac - WoodTrust BankScott Glinski - SkywardAndrew Halverson - Mayor, City of Stevens PointO. Phillip Idsvoog - Portage County Board ChairLonnie Krogwold - Portage County Board Finance ChairTodd Kuckkahn - Stevens Point Area Catholic SchoolsDeb Marten - Marten MachiningCherrie Marti - Ministry Saint Michael’s HospitalRichard O’Sullivan - Mid-State Technical CollegeJim Petersen - Marshfield ClinicSusan Placzek - SentryWorld Sports CenterDan Schlutter - Village of PloverAttila Weninger - Stevens Point Area Public SchoolsWard Wolff - First Weber Group RealtorsRob Wyman - Ambassador, River Valley BankGary Wysocki - Paragon FarmsRobert Worth - Director Emeritus, The Worth Company

Board AdvisorsSara Brish - Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors BureauDan Mahoney - Village of PloverMichael Ostrowski - City of Stevens PointSteve Smith - Mid-State Technical College

2014 pcbc / foundation board of DIRECTORS \\

PCBC / Foundation StaffLori Dehlinger - Executive Director

Mary Jo Monday - Director of Member Relations

Karen Schanock - Director of Programs & Events

Bill Christiansen - Director of Foundation

Kari Thompson - Business & Office Operations Director

Sarah Bosshart - Administrative / Marketing Assistant

Email Addressesldehling@portagecountybiz.com

mmonday@portagecountybiz.com

kschanoc@portagecountybiz.com

fdn@portagecountybiz.com

acctg@portagecountybiz.com

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Sarah Bosshart \\ admin@portagecountybiz.com

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PORTAGE COUNTY BUSINESS COUNCIL & FOUNDATION \\ 5501 VERN HOLMES DRIVE \\ STEVENS POINT, WI 54482 \\ P 715-344-1940 \\ F 715-344-4473

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

Portage County gift certificates make great gifts. Gift certificates can be purchased at area banks, credit unions, the Convention and Visitors Bureau or at our office. They can be used at any business with a Portage County address and are available in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $25, $50 & $100.

The PCBC would like to thank everyone who participates for helping make the program successful. We would also like to thank BMO Harris Bank for their financial support of the gift certificate program.

BUY LOCAL

www.PortageCountyConnects.comThe Portage County Business Council reminds you that Portage County Connects is your connection to insights, resources, and economic development news in Portage County.

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» CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFOFor questions, please contact Sarah at 715-344-1940 or admin@portagecountybiz.com.

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