Chamber Annual Breakfast Meeting
The "best budget picture we have seen in 50 years" is how featured speaker John Koskinen (pictured right) described the near $7 billion Wisconsin surplus while painting a bright outlook overall for Wisconsin in 2023. This came as good news to the Chamber members who attended today's Annual Breakfast Meeting at Dino's Restaurant.
The meeting provided a great opportunity to network with other members as well as talk to our legislative representatives, Senator Joan Ballweg, Representative Alex Dallman, Congressman Glenn Grothman and Mayor Mitch Craig, who were among the attendees.
Mayor Craig gave a brief update on some exciting developments coming up in Portage, which Steve Sobiek, City of Portage Director, Business Development & Planning, will update at the Chamber's March Business Luncheon.
Thank you to Dino's Restaurant for hosting, the member attendees, and to the sponsors:
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Chamber Business Luncheon
The Portage Area Chamber of Commerce is offering another way to develop more customers and build relationships with your fellow Chamber members and make those important connections that can help you in your business or career. Bring your business cards, brochures, or anything you wish to share with other members.
Luncheon Information
Kallie Schultz, Operations Manager at the Madison College Portage Campus, will be our featured speaker. We will be meeting onsite at the Portage Campus (330 West Collins Street) for this luncheon. Kallie will share information with us on the variety of associate degree programs, technical diplomas and certificates that are offered at the campus.
if you haven’t been on campus in a while (or ever), be sure to come to check out our updated look and hear more about what we have going on.
The Portage Campus of Madison College, right in our backyard, is a welcoming place to start or restart your college journey. Their course offerings allow you start your bachelor’s degree with transferable classes or learn a new trade.
Space is limited. Please RSVP to the Portage Chamber at 608-742-6242.
Date: Tuesday, February 7, 2023
Location: Portage Campus of Madison College
Time: Lunch at 11:30AM, Presentation at Noon
Cost: $10 at the door covers lunch
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News from Adams-Columbia Electric
ACEC’s Educational Scholarship is now available! Scholarships are awarded in all fields of post-secondary education from vocational to graduate studies. They are available to adults and dependent children of all ACEC member families currently receiving electric service from ACEC. Applicants from previous years, especially those who were not selected, should consider reapplying. Ready to apply or learn more? Visit www.acecwi.com/educational-scholarship<http://www.acecwi.com/educational-scholarship>.
Over $57,000 has been awarded to classes throughout ACEC’s service area since their STEM Grant program launched in 2019. Classrooms with curriculums in the area of science, technology, engineering, or math are eligible to apply for a STEM Grant. Deadlines for this grant are quarterly. Encourage educators you know to apply! Visit www.acecwi.com/stem-grant<http://www.acecwi.com/stem-grant>to learn more and to apply today.
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Site Director wanted at Portage Boys & Girls Club
The Boys and Girls Clubs of West Central Wisconsin is looking for a Site Director for the soon to be opening Portage location. The ideal candidate will directs/manage overall daily operations of the Club site with the primary concern for facilities management, community relations, safety, program integrity, membership administration and supervision of staff and volunteers.
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Portage Theatres Offers 'Throwback' Bargain Pricing
All shows, all days, you can get throwback ticket pricing on the new movie "80 for Brady."
Tickets are $6.50 for adults, $5.50 for seniors and kids. Tuesday, is still family day at $5 and Wednesday afternoon is Senior Day.
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'Soup's On' event at Heritage House
Happiness is...hot soup and good company on a cold day, plus a month of rent-free living! Warm-up to the idea of comfortable living at Heritage House. Visit during the month of February and take home a quart of soup to-go, compliments of our cozy community!
Heritage House residents enjoy caring support, comfortable living, a sense of community, and convenient amenities and services. Heritage House offers:
• Large apartments with full kitchens or kitchenettes and optional patios
• Convenient on-site chapel and beauty salon
• A robust activity program
• Around-the-clock care giving help as needed
• Housekeeping, laundry and meals included
• A surprisingly affordable price
• Handicap accessible bus for shopping and trips
This is an ideal opportunity for seniors and their adult children to come for a tour. Call Paula Barans 608-448-6181 or pbarans@encorecares.com to schedule your appointment. Heritage House of Portage Assisted Living is located at 2685 Airport Road.
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Harbor Recovery meetings
Al-Anon Group
Portage Al-Anon Group at The Harbor Recovery Center meets on Wednesdays from Noon to 1pm. Call 608-697-7163.
Grief Support Group
The Harbor Recovery Center hosts a Grief Support Group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide or overdose. The group meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at 5:30pm. Please call Amy Cole at 608-697-0374 to register in advance for Grief Support.
Big Book Study (AA)
Come to the Harbor Recovery Center for this AA Recovery Group meeting on Thursdays from 7pm to 8pm.
NA (Narcotics Anonymous) Recovery Meeting
NA (Narcotics Anonymous) Recovery Meeting at The Harbor Recovery Center on Mondays from 6pm to 7pm. Call 608-697-7163.
Please note: The Harbor Recovery Center has moved to 1505 New Pinery Road. For more information, call 608-697-7163.
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Chair Yoga at the Library
Participate in Chair Yoga on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8am to 9am at the Portage Public Library. Chair yoga is a gentle form of yoga that can be done while sitting or using a chair as support. Yoga mat, towel, block, and strap recommended but not required. Must register in advance for one or both days; space is limited.
Introduction to Meditation
A free introductory class for adults interested in the benefits of meditation will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Portage Public Library from 9am to 9:30am. Must register in advance for each class. Space is limited. Wear comfortable clothing. Registration is required.
Zumba!
Zumba is scheduled for Mondays, 5:30pm to 6:15pm. The instructor will get you moving in this fun exercise program for adults of all fitness levels. Registration is required.
For more information or to register for these programs, call the library at 608-742-4959 or email programs@portagelibrary.us. Portage Public Library, 253 W. Edgewater Street, at 608-742-4959.
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Poker at VFW
The VFW Post 1707 is open on Wednesdays for Texas Hold'em Poker. Poker starts at 7:30pm with a $20 buy in. All buy in money paid out to winners. Join in the fun!
For more information, call the VFW, 215 W. Collins Street, at 608-742-5350.
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Support Groups at Aspirus Divine Savior
Diabetes Support Group at Aspirus Divine Savior
Join this group of medical professionals to partner with you to better manage your diabetes. This support group does not replace your regular provider visits, but rather complements the care that your provider gives and provides participants with ongoing support and education to manage their disease.
The Diabetes Support Group meets on the first Thursday of every month, from 1:30pm to 2:30pm in Classroom A/B - Lower Level of Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital & Clinic at 2817 New Pinery Road.
Topics include: Nutrition and Lifestyle; Blood Sugar Monitoring; Stress Management and Healthy Coping; Medication Management; Exercising with Diabetes; Risk Reduction. For more information, call 608-745-5123.
Brain Injury and Stroke Support Group at Aspirus Divine Savior
This group is to support those who have had a brain injury or stroke, as well as supporting caregivers and family members. Make connections with those who have similar experiences and gain knowledge from
professionals who are here to support those affected by a brain injury or stroke.
The group meets every 4th Tuesday of each month from 1pm-2pm at The Wellness Center at Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital in Suite 4 Conference Room. Contact: Rehab Services at 608-745-6290 with any questions.
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Bingo at Saddle Ridge
The Portage VFW Post #1707 will host bingo on Thursdays beginning at 6pm at the Saddle Ridge Clubhouse through April. There is a progressive jackpot at the end of the season. Bingo card sales begin at 5:30pm.
Saddle Ridge is located at 100A Saddle Ridge. For more information, call 608-742-2181.
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Free Covid-19 Vaccination Clinic
Wilz Hometown Pharmacy, 140 E. Cook Street, is the site of a free Covid-19 vaccination clinic from 1pm to 5:30pm on Friday, February 3. All doses of Pfizer for ages 6+ will be available at no cost.
Free $50 Kwik Trip Gas Card to everyone receiving a Covid-19 vaccine or booster at this event! No appointment needed! All walk-ins welcome! For more information, contact Lynette at 608-432-4359.
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Veterans Open Bonspiel to honor Col. Laverne Griffin
The Veterans Open Bonspiel (curling) to honor Col. Laverne H. Griffin, a.k.a. Griff, will be held February 3-5 at the Portage Curling Club. The Bonspiel is a fundraising event to create a memorial for him. He was a small-town boy from Wyocena, WI, our neighboring community and lived his adult life in Portage, WI. Griff was a reconnaissance pilot over Russia, Korea, and Vietnam. His missions were vital to the United States during the Cold War. If you would like to learn more about Col. Griffin, google “Wyocena Kid.”
The State of Wisconsin American Legion Headquarters in Portage will be the site of the new memorial for Col. Laverne H. Griffin available for young and old to enjoy and learn about him, the Cold War, and our country. For more information about the bonspiel, how you can donate, etc., click here or contact Amanda Kohn at 608-697-2649.
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Drury Gallery Art Reception
Come to the Opening Reception of 'Friends and Family' at the Drury Gallery inside Portage for the Arts. Free and open to the public! Meet the artist reception on Friday, February 3 from 4pm to 6pm. The exhibit runs through February 24. The Dan Gardiner – Paper Collage exhibit is postponed due to illness.
Waunakee Big Band
Formed in 2014, the 18- piece Waunakee Big Band plays live swing and blues music from the 1920s all the way through to the Big Band music of today! Waunakee Big Band performs Saturday, February 18 at 7:30pm at Portage Center for the Arts.
Lunch Break Series
Grab your lunch, bring a friend, and join us in PCA's Zona Gale Theatre at 12pm for your flexible noon hour on select Thursdays throughout the year! $5 at the door!
The February 23 Lunch Break features Historic Indian Agency House Executive Director Adam Novey.
Explore the stories and lessons of the Historic Indian Agency House's past in a new way. Examine artifacts from the HIAH collection as you investigate the big picture of this important place in Portage—and national—history.
Portage Center for the Arts is located at 301 E. Cook Street. For more information or tickets, call 608-742-5655.
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Fruit of the Spirit Kids Club at Bethlehem Lutheran Church
The Fruit of the Spirit Kids Club is scheduled to begin on Sunday, February 5. The first lesson will focus on "love," just in time for Valentine's Day. Meet one Sunday every month (usually the first Sunday) from 4pm-5:15pm. Children in kindergarten through 5th grade can join for fun lessons, music, crafts, games, and a snack while learning about the fruit of the spirit: love, joy, peace patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control.
This class is open to anyone in the community and church members are encouraged to bring a friend along. Please register on the BLC website .
New Member Class
Interested in finding a church family to call home? Attend this informational class for those interested in joining Bethlehem Lutheran Church, a member of the larger ELCA church, on Sunday, February 5.
Worship at 9am and stay for the class, which starts at 10:30am. All are welcome. If you have any questions, please contact 608-742-8502 or www.bethlehemlcportage.org.
Life Line Screening
Lifeline Screening will be at Bethlehem Lutheran Church on February 23 to offer health screenings. Life Line Screening looks inside your arteries for dangerous plaque buildup that can increase your risk for stroke and cardiovascular disease. They offer 5 vital screenings for $159 and take 60-90 minutes to complete. If you are interested in reserving a spot you can register here: https://llsa.social/HSC or by calling toll free 1-888-653-6441.
Bethlehem Lutheran Church is located at W8267 Hwy 33 East. For more information, call 608-742-8502.
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PACT auditions for 'Church Basement Ladies'
Auditions for 'Church Basement Ladies' will be held on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, February 7, 8, and 9 at 6:30pm at Portage Center for the Arts. Bring something to sing. Four women and one man will be needed for the show, which will take place April 21-30, and is produced by Portage Area Community Theatre (PACT) and directed by Sheril Lannoye. Visit https://www.pacttheatre.org/.
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Advertise in this Chamber newsletter
Having an event you want others to know about? Submit a one-time flyer insert in this newsletter for $25. Or place a year-long newsletter ad, which links to your website, for $300/year. Call the Portage Chamber for more information at 608-742-6242.
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Sauk Columbia SHRM Meeting
Sauk Columbia SHRM (SC SHRM) is an organization made up of HR professionals from these two area counties. This group is focused on staying educated, informed of ever changing regulations and in touch with other peers in the field. Meeting on the second Wednesday of every month, from September through May, this group gathers to hear from an array of speakers to further enhance the professional development of its members.
Location: Monk’s at the Wilderness, 33 Hillman Rd, Lake Delton
Time: 11:30am-1pm, Second Wednesday of the month September through May
February 8 topic: Legal Update
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Portage Elks Lodge Fish Fry
A Fish Fry will be held at the Portage Elks Lodge on Friday, February 10 from 5pm to 8pm at the Elks Lodge, 201 W. Conant Street.
For more information, contact Paul at 608-617-5224.
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Kids Fisheree at Silver Lake
Come help the Portage Kiwanis raise money to purchase books for children by participating in the Kiwanis Fisheree at Silver Lake on Saturday, February 11.
Registration starts at 8am and fishing continues until 3pm. There will be food, games and prizes. $10 Adult and $5 Kids. For more information, email klay.vehring@gmail.com.
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Galentine's Day at The Mercantile
Galentine’s Day...for the gals! Grab your gals and enjoy afternoon tea at The Mercantile, 117 W. Cook Street, in downtown Portage.
Tea time is scheduled for Saturday, February 11. Call 608-745-5768 soon to make your reservation. Enjoy some wonderful tea and sweet treats!!! $35 per person.
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Executive Director wanted at FWSQ
The Fort Winnebago Surgeons Quarters is looking for an Executive Director. Manage the daily tasks related to building and grounds, including hours of operation, accessibility and visitor safety. Click Here for details and to apply.
Surgeons Quarters Book Club
Members of the Fort Winnebago Surgeons Quarters Book Club will gather by Zoom to discuss The Bomber Mafia by Mafia Gladwell on Sunday, February 12 from 3pm to 5pm.
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Blood Drive at American Legion State Headquarters
A blood Drive will be held at the Wisconsin American Legion Headquarters, 2930 American Legion Drive, on Friday, February 17 from 11am to 4pm. For an appointment call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter Sponsor Code: WILegion Warm hearts. Warm thoughts.
Give in February for a $10 Gift Card by email, thanks to Amazon. And, automatically be entered for a chance to win a trip for 2 to Clearwater Beach, FL. Includes travel, hotel, gift card and more! Call 608-745-1090 for more info.
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Want to submit an article for this newsletter?
The Chamber's monthly newsletter deadlines the 20th of the month. Members are always welcome to let others know: about new products and services; introduce new associates or promotions; provide updates about their industry or business; give helpful tips; promote a sale or event. For more information, call the Portage Chamber at 608-742-6242.
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St. Mary's Pancake Supper
Join us for all you can eat pancakes made by Knights of Columbus with a variety of toppings, sausage, and drink on Tuesday, February 21 from 4:30pm to 7:30pm.
All proceeds benefit St. Mary School 6th Grade Safety Patrol Trip. There will be a 50/50 raffle, face painting and All-You-Can-Eat-Pancakes! St. Mary's School is located at 315 West Cook Street. Free will donation.
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Gongtopia at Bee Alive Yoga Studio
Taking place on February 24 from 5pm-6:30pm. $35 Registration.
The Gong Meditation is so much more than just gongs. It’s gongs, singing bowls, bells and other percussion instruments, combined into a pulsating soundscape that is designed to help you slow down and invite stillness within. There’s no hurry, no destination—only the breath and being in the moment. The vibrations can help with stress, fatigue, depression, anger and blocked energy. This is personal self-care. Call 608-745-9333 to register.
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Portage Sharing Supper
Come and "share supper" together with the community on Monday, February 27 from 5pm to 6:30pm at Wayne Bartels Middle School, 2505 New Pinery Road, and the last Monday of each month.
In addition to the free meal, there is a "Kid's Corner" for young people to do a craft and hear a story as well as informational tables for adults. There will also be a free blood pressure station available.
The purpose of these suppers is to build and nourish community relationships by providing a dining experience that is free of all economic and social barriers.
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Submit your Events!
Are you planning an event this year? Get it posted on our web community calendar at www.portagewi.com. One of the most popularly viewed of the Chamber website pages, the calendar allows you to submit your own events.
Simply click this link and submit your events. If you have questions, please call the Chamber office at 608-742-6242.
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Spread the word about Portage!
Use #portagewi or #portagechamberwi in your social media posts.
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Check out the Chamber's YouTube Channel HERE
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Job postings on portagewi.com
Check out these job postings on our Chamber site from our member businesses. You are welcome to post job openings your business may have at any time. Call the Chamber office at 608-742-6242 for more information.
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Join a Service Club - Meetings subject to change
Rotary - Meets Wednesdays at Noon at Dino’s Restaurant, 2900 New Pinery Rd.
Lions Club - Meets the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 5:30pm at Dino’s Restaurant, 2900 New Pinery Rd., summer month meetings change locations
Kiwanis - Meets on Wednesdays at Noon at Pizza Ranch, 2905 New Pinery Rd.
Optimists - Meets on Tuesdays at 7am at Dino’s Restaurant, 2900 New Pinery Rd.
Elks - Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday at 7pm; 2nd Tuesday only in July, August and December
Women's Civic League - Meets 2nd Wednesdays of the month at Dino’s Restaurant, 2900 New Pinery Rd.
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