|
Chamber Newsletter - June 2018
Volume 23 - Issue 6
|
|
Chamber Chat with Amanda
Summer tourism is in full swing in Jackson County. Memorial Day weekend brought in a record number of visitors to Wazee Lake. Forestry and Parks estimates between 4,000 and 5,000 people visited the beach! There were also record numbers of ATVs and UTVs on our trails. It is wonderful to see so many people visiting our area.
We have seen a large increase in the number of visitors and phone calls at our office. May through September is always very busy for us. A lot of visitors are from larger cities like Milwaukee, Chicago and Minneapolis. We have been told time and again that they come here to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Visitors always comment on how beautiful our area is, how friendly the local people are, and how there is so much to do here.
We are blessed to have so many different opportunities for outdoor recreation. Whether it's ATV/UTV riding, canoeing, kayaking, boating, hiking, biking, golfing, fishing, swimming or camping - we have it all! We have many great antique shops, retail stores, Farmers Markets, restaurants, taverns, wineries, a brewery and concerts in the park - there is always something to do.
We also have many great festivals and events happening throughout the summer. The Karner Blue Race and Festival in the Park is happening this Saturday, June 30th. There is a 4th of July Celebration in Melrose on July 4th, a Flea Market in Hatfield July 6th through 8th, the Karner Blue Butterfly Festival on July 21st and the Jackson County Fair coming up August 1st through 5th. Those are just a handful of events going on in our area over the next month. Check out the calendar on our website HERE to see what else is happening!
Thank you, as always, for your continued support of the Chamber. Together we will build business, create community and promote tourism.
Amanda Gunn
Executive Director
Black River Area Chamber of Commerce
|
|
Chamber News
2018 Menu Guides are Now Available!
2018 Black River Area Menu Guides are now available! If you would like some for your business or lodging facility, stop in our office and pick them up or give us a call and we can drop them off for you!
Photo Contest
Calling all photographers! We need new photos for the 2019 Black River Country Visitor's Guide and for our website! We are looking for all types of photos - scenery, wildlife, ATVing, snowmobiling, skiing, paddling, fishing, etc.
We will pick one photo to be used as the main cover shot for the 2019 Visitor's Guide. The person who submits the winning cover shot will receive $50 in Chamber Bucks and will receive photo credit in the guide. Any photos used on our website will also be given photo credit. Please submit photos no later than August 31st to:
[email protected].
Photos MUST be sent in high resolution. Contact us with any questions. The photo below is this year's cover shot by Heidi Tubbs.
Events to Share
Please send us information on any upcoming events your business or organization is hosting. We will get them posted to the calendar on our website and in the printed calendar that we distribute at our office. We also share many different events on our Facebook page.
Brochures, Rack Cards and Business Cards Needed
Make sure to drop off a supply of your brochures, rack cards and business cards at the Chamber office. Help us help your business by passing along information to both our out-of-town visitors and to local residents who come to the Chamber. If you can't make it to the office, give us a call and we will gladly pick them up at your business.
Goody Bag Items Needed
Throughout the year, we put together goody bags for our Karner Blue race, new teachers, hockey tournaments and other events. We are asking businesses to donate goody bag items. If you have items such as pens, magnets, key chains, coupons, etc. that you would like to donate, give us a call. It is a great opportunity to advertise and promote your business!
|
|
Ribbon Cutting
Mr Pita
Photos courtesy of JoDee Brooke/Banner Journal
A ribbon cutting was held at Mr Pita on Thursday, June 21st during their Grand Opening Celebration. Attending were from left, back row: Brad Chown, Sue Miller, Diane Moen-Ross, Woody Meyer, Joe Williams, Wendy Trautsch, Tamra Soto and front row, Sharon Trujillo, Nick Trujillo, Roberto Hernandez, Amanda Gunn, Andrea Durst, Michelle Kapfer and Grady Gutknecht.
Mr Pita is open Thursday through Tuesday 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. (Closed Wednesday). Make sure to stop in and try their delicious gyros, pitas, burgers and more!
Mr Pita even made an appearance at the Grand Opening Celebration!
|
Fern Helbling Scholarship Winners
Each year the Black River Area Chamber of Commerce (BRACC) awards the Fern Helbling Scholarships. Fern Helbling was a local registered nurse who passed away December 21, 1999. It was her wish that the interest earned from part of her inheritance be used to benefit local scholars.
This year, two $500 scholarships were awarded in the Business Scholarship category due to lack of applications for the Women's Scholarship.
The Business Scholarship is awarded to a male or female student applicant enrolled in a four-year college of his or her choice. The student applicant must be at least a college sophomore in good standing, currently taking at least 6 credits, and enrolled in a business curriculum of his or her choice.
The first recipient selected for the 2018 Business Scholarship was Abbey Johnson of Black River Falls. Abbey is enrolled at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point and is pursuing Bachelor Degrees in Business Administration and Interior Architecture. She will be graduating with honors in December 2018. Future plans include completing both a Master's Degree and a Doctorate Degree. She would like to earn a leadership role in a company when she graduates and hopes to become a college professor one day.
Selected to receive the second Business Scholarship was Kacey Koenigs, of Black River Falls. Kacey is enrolled at the University of St. Thomas, Opus College of Business pursuing a Bachelor of Accounting Degree. She plans on graduating with a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's of Science in Accountancy Degree in May 2020. After graduation, she would like to become a Certified Public Accountant and work for a public accounting firm.
Requirements for the scholarships state the student applicant must be a Jackson County resident. The applicant may apply and receive up to three scholarships.
BRACC congratulates the scholarship recipients.
The Fern Helbling Scholarship Committee is proud to announce the 2018 Business Scholarship recipient is Abbey Johnson from Black River Falls, WI. She received a $500 scholarship.
The second 2018 Business Scholarship recipient is Kacey Koenigs from Black River Falls, WI. She also received a $500 scholarship.
|
|
Member Business Briefs
Black River Memorial Hospital Expanding
Black River Memorial Hospital (BRMH) celebrates its 50
th
anniversary and with it brings plans for renovation and expansion at its main building on Adams Street. BRMH was renovated in 2007. Since then, there have been many changes to healthcare and the organization. There has been a significant shift from inpatient services to outpatient services and the demands of providing excellent care are exceeding current capacity. In order for BRMH to continue to meet the needs of our community and to provide care as close to home as possible, BRMH will be expanding and renovating the main building.
The 2016 community health needs assessment validated mental health and substance abuse as concerns for the residents of Jackson County. Mary Beth White-Jacobs, CEO, said, "Our mission of providing excellent service requires us to look at how we are meeting the needs of our community. We realize there are gaps in local health services and this leads to struggles for families and patients to find care. This project will improve service offerings in many areas which helps our staff, patients and the community."
The project includes additions in surgical and specialty services, rehabillitation, outpatient services and behavioral health care. Urgent Care will be separated from ER and have its own entrance. The cafeteria and kitchen will be completely renovated. There are other projects throughout the hospital that will make providing care more efficient for staff, as well.
Matthew Streeter, CFO and project manager for the expansion said, "We are at capacity for services we currently offer. In order to add services to meet some of the needs of our community, expansion is the next step.This project reinvests in our community and the patient."
The facility planning began in 2014 with interviews and studies of the current building. The hospital team identified the need for renovation and/or expansion. With that in mind, the senior leader team began to save for the building project as it continued to plan for the renovation. The projected cost for the project is around $13 million. The groundbreaking for the project is tentatively planned for July of 2018 and will be completed by Spring of 2020.
BRMH is an independent community hospital serving Jackson County, Wisconsin.
**********
Black River Memorial Hospital Receives
Ten Excellence in Healthcare Awards
Healthcare leaders from across the United States gathered to participate in the 2018 PRC Excellence in Healthcare Conference. Black River Memorial Hospital (BRMH) was recognized as a 2018 Top Performing hospital by Professional Research Consultants, Inc. (PRC) earning ten awards. PRC recognizes award winners annually for their achievements in improving patient experiences, healthcare employee engagement and/or physician alignment based on patient surveys.
BRMH departments recognized as a Top Performer include Diagnostic Imaging, Medical/Surgical, and Surgical Services. Other departments earning a five-star award include Rehabilitation, Laboratory, Sleep Lab, Medical/Surgical, Obstetrics and Urgent Care. Four-star awards were received by Medical/Surgical, Obstetrics and Surgical Services departments. The Emergency Department received the Award of Distinction which is given to recognize inpatient facilities and emergency
departments that score above the 100th percentile for overall quality of care. These awards are given to hospitals who rank among the highest in the nation.
"We are so proud of our team at BRMH and are thrilled to have been presented with these National Excellence in Healthcare Awards," said Patient and Family Services Director, Kathy Laudon, who accepted awards at the conference. "These awards are proof that BRMH is committed to improving healthcare. It takes years of dedication, determination and hard work to achieve this level of success. I'm proud to be a part of the BRMH team that works so hard to improve healthcare services throughout the Jackson County area."
Patient and Family Services Director Kathy Laudon received the PRC awards presented by PRC President and CEO, Joe Inguanzo.
**********
Gathering Grounds -
A New Place to Eat, Drink and Gather in BRF
By Lori Jayne Carlson
Originally published in the Banner Journal
June 13, 2018
A love of baking and cooking and with a little prompting from her adult son, Danielle Stiehl took the plunge and recently opened Gathering Grounds in Black River Falls.
"My son was worried about me," Danielle shared with a smile, saying he wanted her to have something for herself and it turns out she is really enjoying it.
"It's been a lot of fun," Danielle shared of her coffee shop and boutique, located at 437 North Water Street.
But ... this isn't Danielle's first experience with this type of business having worked at her parents' restaurant, the Northfield Mercantile, during and after high school and being the previous owner of Brickhouse Coffee in Hixton.
At Gathering Grounds, the tradition of working together as a family has continued. Danielle explained that even though her son and daughter have full-time jobs, they have been helping "a lot" at Gathering Grounds. Danielle's sister also works at the coffee shop and a niece has expressed interest in working a few hours this summer too.
Danielle shared her first few days of serving drinks and coffee has kept her busy, but "I like it," she said. "I imagine I'll need days off, but for now I'm okay."
"It's been a lot of work," Danielle shared about the interior remodel of the coffee shop that was previously known as"Molly's, "but I am very pleased with how it's turned out."
The shop features coffee beverages, smoothies, Italian sodas and blended creams (which Danielle explained are similar to shakes). For breakfast, Gathering Grounds serves breakfast sandwiches and burritos, oatmeal and yogurt. Lunch offerings are everything from homemade soups to salads, paninis, wraps and sandwiches. Homemade baked goodies are available all day long.
Gathering Grounds is currently open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. "I really enjoy it," Danielle shared, "and I hope everyone really enjoys it." Danielle shared she is in it for the long haul and said she hopes the shop stays until she "just can't do it anymore."
Danielle Stiehl - owner of Gathering Grounds
|
|
Business After 5
Thank you to Theisen's Home-Farm Auto for hosting the June Business After 5 event that took place on Wednesday, June 13.
Everyone had a wonderful time!
Members enjoyed delicious food made by Theisen's employee Becky Callahan
**********
There will not be a Business After 5 in July! Our next event will be the FIRST Wednesday of August at the Jackson County Fair!
|
|
2018 New Members
Doc's Bunkhouse
N11702 Elker Road
Merrillan, WI 54754
Phone: 715-964-8010
Doc's Bunkhouse is a family owned and operated campground with cabins, camper & RV sites, ATV trail access, bar and much more. Our property has direct access to 100's of miles of beautiful scenic ATV trails in Jackson County & Clark County. We are currently expanding and have lots of exciting events being planned for 2018 so be sure to stop by often, join us on Facebook, and feel free to stop by and say hi anytime.
Lori's Hair Salon /Special EFX Salon & Spa
12 South Roosevelt Rd
Black River Falls, WI 54615
Phone: 715-284-4247
Lori's Hair Salon /Special EFX Salon & Spa offers cuts, colors, perms and waxing, as well as manicures, pedicures and specialty facials (Including Repechage, glyco-sea® glycolic peel, Biolight Luminex, four-layer facials, peppermint sea twist and eye treatments). Also featuring Farm House Fresh products- proudly made in the USA and each purchase helps animals in need. Call today for more information or to schedule your appointment. Over 30 years experience. Open Mon-Thur 9-3 and Sat 8-1.
Riverside Nutrition
18 Main Street
Black River Falls, WI 54615
Phone: 763-331-5988
Riverside Nutrition is a healthy and wellness club for EVERY BODY! We serve healthy meal shakes, energy teas, and soothing aloe shots. Stop by today!
|
|
2018 Theisen's More for Your Community Grants
Theisen's Home-Farm-Auto announced the launch of the 2018 Theisen's More for Your Community Grants Program.
Supported by Theisen's charitable fund and through a partnership with the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque, grants will be made available in all Theisen's store communities. This year, more than $250K in total grants will be distributed to the region served by Theisen's, with each store having at least $5,000 available. The maximum request per project application is $5,000.
The More for Your Community Program will make direct grants to agencies to jump-start and/or sustain projects that most effectively and directly serve the basic needs of families and children, which include food, shelter, education, safety and health. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, government-sponsored organizations directly serving children and families within a 60-mile radius of a Theisen's store.
Theisen's Home-Farm-Auto has donated nearly $1.8 million through the More for Your Community Grant program since its inception and supports many other community events and organizations directly.
|
|
7 Rivers Alliance Updates
Inspire Program
The Inspire 7 Rivers initiative links education and industry to help students and job seekers achieve their goals and address communities' workforce development needs. The Inspire 7 Rivers platform is a safe way for students to connect with potential employers and career coaches. Inspire 7 Rivers is launched in school districts within Black River Falls, Holmen, Tomah, Hillsboro and Blair-Taylor, and over the next three years the program will expand to include school districts throughout the entire 7 Rivers Region.
The Inspire program is now up to
89
employers and
63
coaches that collaborate with over
1,000
active students.
Our determination to increase employers involved with the program has not slowed down. Our team continues communicate about the benefits of the program to local organizations. If you or any employer is interested in learning more please email Jeff at
[email protected]
or click on the picture below.
**********
Nominations are Open for 2018 Rising Stars Under 40
It's time to salute the Rising Stars Under 40 in the 7 Rivers Region.
For the third consecutive year, the 7 Rivers Alliance and River Valley Media Group are teaming up to honor dynamic, community-minded young leaders in our three-state region.
We're seeking your help to identify and nominate the members of our third class of Rising Stars Under 40, who will be honored in October.
Nominees must be younger than 40 on August 1. Deadline for nominating someone is July 20. For more information and eligibility requirements, check out the submission form on the 7 Rivers website
HERE.
Last year's class of Rising Stars featured educators and engineers, marketers and construction executives, health care officials and restaurateurs. Despite the varied backgrounds, they shared a strong sense of leadership and community spirit.
"Certainly one of the highlights of the year is when we recognize some of the best and brightest men and women who are helping make the 7 Rivers Region a great place to live and work," said Chris Hardie, CEO of the 7 Rivers Alliance. "The contributions from these recipients demonstrate that they are already leaders in their communities."
"The first two classes of Rising Stars - a total of 43 women and men - came from throughout the region. The 7 Rivers Alliance covers three states and 14 counties, so it's important that we have nominations from all across the region."
**********
Internship and Apprenticeship Event - September 19
The next 7 Rivers Alliance event will focus on the importance of internships and apprenticeships in today's labor markets. These critical experiences allow young adults to gain exposure in a variety of career paths that lead to skilled workers entering our workforce.
Save the date and stay tuned for more information on speakers, registration, and more!
**********
Tourism and hospitality are important sectors of the 7 Rivers Region economy and the industry is in need of additional workers. In response to this, Western Technical College now offers hospitality degrees. Please share this information as you see fit so they can take advantage of this opportunity.
|
|
Wisconsin Park and Recreation Association Discounted Tickets
Have you started making summer plans yet? If you are you are thinking about going to the Dells, Six Flags or the Milwaukee Zoo, check out the list of discounted tickets to help you save money on admission! City Hall will be selling tickets until the Friday before Labor Day weekend (August 31
st
).
Stop in to City Hall to purchase tickets between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
|
|
WisConnect
Are you looking to increase your skilled talent pipeline?
An internship program is a fantastic way to begin that process. We want to introduce you to WisConnect - Your Source for Wisconsin Internships.
·
Create a profile/marketing page for their business
·
Post their internships for free
·
Search for interns
·
Access resources on creating or improving an internship program
Use WisConnect to develop a robust internship program and recruit interns to enhance your skilled talent pipeline.
Create a free WisConnect account to start your search for interns today. Once registered, you can build your employer profile to showcase and attract interns, post internships and search for qualified interns who meet your talent needs.
College students are joining WisConnect regularly.
Visit the site frequently to make new talent connections.
Note: If you have a JobCenterofWisconsin.com or Unemployment Insurance login, you can use your existing Username and Password when signing in on WisConnect.
|
|
Youth Apprenticeship Program
Youth Apprenticeship (YA) is a school-to-work program designed to help employers identify and employ young workers interested in their field. In turn, those juniors and seniors in high school continue toward graduation, gain valuable work experience and specific job skills, earn a wage, and upon completion are awarded a Certificate of Occupational Proficiency by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. Youth Apprenticeships are possible in a wide range of occupations, from Marketing, Construction and IT to Health Sciences and Manufacturing. Between 75 and 85 percent of YA employers offer youth apprentices permanent positions at the completion of the program, the best testimonial possible of the program's value. See the info sheets below for information. Feel free to contact YA staff at the Department of Workforce Development with any questions by calling 608-267-6705 or emailing
[email protected].
|
|
Karner Blue Butterfly Festival
|
|
Miller's Antiques & Auction Company
|
|
Ho-Chunk Gaming Black River Falls
|
|
Gross Motors of Black River Falls
|
|
Upcoming Events
If you have events or activities at your business or organization, please let us know and we'll add them to our calendar. To view the calendar of events, click
here:
2018 Business after 5 Calendar
July: No Business After 5 in July
August 1: Jackson County Fair (Please note this will be the FIRST Wednesday of August)
September 12: JC Financial Partners
October 10: Brambleberry Winery
November 7:
Comfort Inn & Suites
(Please note this will be the FIRST Wednesday of November)
December 5: Black River Area Chamber of Commerce
We have openings for Business After 5 in 2019. Give us a call today to reserve your spot.
|
|
2018 Chamber Board of Directors
President Robert Crampes, Land O'Lakes
Vice President Dave Meyer, WWIS Radio
Treasurer Sue Miller, Co-op Credit Union
Secretary Justin Dougherty, Dynamic Audio & Video LLC
Board Members C
harles Betthauser, Sherman Law
Karman Briggs, Western Dairyland
Brad Chown, City of Black River Falls
Candy Christianson, D&S Manufacturing
Kristin Franks, Edward Jones
Grady Gutknecht, Jackson County Board Rep
Tris Harris, Ho-Chunk Gaming-Black River Falls
Scott Johnson, Aptiv
Tamra Soto, Comfort Inn & Suites
Matt Streeter, Black River Memorial Hospital
Carrie Timp, Revolution BRF
|
|
