Fox Cities Business - May Issue

TECHNOLOGY:

DEsiGNiNG usEr ExpEriENCEs

EDuCATiON:

HAs THE rECEssiON CrEATED A GENErATiON sCArED TO DrEAm biG?

WELLNEss:

mOViNG FOrWArD TOWArDs A HEALTHiEr

FOx CiTiEs

MA

Y 2

012

Volu

me

13, I

ssue

5F O x C i T i E s

www.foxcitieschamber.com

C H A m b E r

Tim & Dave BennettVisionary Metals

www.lakeviewcu.org 920-729-5100

Money Made Easy

We chose Lakeview because they understoodus and our business.

www.mcmgrp.com NEENAH WI 920.751.4200

MACHESNEY PARK IL 815.636.9590

VALPARAISO IN 219.462.7743

Innovation and Trust…the two words that have defined McMAHON for the past 102 years. As thought leaders in waste-to-energy, transportation, stormwater management, sustainability and building design, McMAHON consistently creates solutions that are industry firsts that align with the long-term success of our clients. We challenge ourselves to provide unparalleled service and inspired design solutions.

Marketing | Design | Packaging | Public Relations | Web & Interactive | 920.380.4444 | www.coalescemarketing.com

grow socially

People talk. And chances are that on one or more

social mediums, they are discussing – for better

or worse – your business. Don’t be socially awkward;

join the conversation with confidence.

Let’s grow your online voice, together.

3 President’s perspectiveViews from Chamber President/CEO Shannon Meyer Full

13 new members

18 AccolAdes, AdvAncements, Announcements

20 dePArtment updates

12 economic development

14 marketing 101

15 business expo

17 marketing opportunities

19 business of the month

4 Get the most out of Your next business trip; Jeff Hayes

6 designing user experiences; thomas bishop

8 moving toward Healthier Fox cities; margie weiss

10 Has the recession created a Generation too scared to dream big?; steve erb

HiGHLiGHTs

FEATurEs

octoberfest Gives back, page 14

EVErY issuE

Fox Cities Chamber Business (w 259180). Published monthly by the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and Industry, 125 N. Superior Street, Appleton, WI 54911. PH 920-734-7101. web www.foxcitieschamber.com. Periodical postage paid at Appleton, WI. Annual subscription fee to members for Fox Cities Chamber Business is $9 and is included in dues. Publisher: Shannon Meyer Full. Editor: Melody Lane Buller. Design: Coalesce Inc. Printing: Northeast Wisconsin Printing Co. Advertising Sales: Susan Vanden Heuvel, 920-734-7101. Postmaster: Send address changes to: Fox Cities Chamber Business, PO Box 1855, Appleton, WI 54912-1855.

Kim Bassett Heitzmann

Bassett Mechanical

Corey Brumbaugh

Miron Construction

Co, Inc.

Kevin Eismann

Epiphany Law, LLC

Daniel P. Ferris

SECURA Insurance

Jim Gaerthofner

Nordon Business

Environments

Vince Gallucci

Affinity Health System

Sharon Hulce

Employment Resource

Group Inc.

Dennis Jochman

The Bechard Group

Lyssa King

OuterEdge Stage

John Krause

Baker Tilly Virchow

Krause, LLP

Marty Lenss

Outagamie County

Regional Airport

Vic Lutz

McMahon

Bill Mann

ThedaCare

Dr. Susan May

Fox Valley

Technical College

Debra Michiels

Fox Banquets

Rivertyme Catering

John Milanowski

Innovative Machining, Inc.

Bill Mundy

West Business Services

Robert Pedersen

Goodwill NCW

James Rossmeissl

The Boldt Company

Catherine Tierney

Community First

Credit Union

Joan Woldt

Bank First National

Chairman of the Board

Linda Kennedy, Business Lending Group

Chair-Elect

Greg Bell, WHBY

Past Chairman

Jim Rankin, Air Wisconsin Airlines Corporation

Secretary/Treasurer

Bruce Zak, JPMorgan Chase, N.A.

Vice Chairman Membership Services

Monica Vomastic, Landmark Staffing Resources

Vice Chairman Economic Development

Kip Golden, Keller Inc.

Vice Chairman Workforce & Leadership Development

Joyce Bytof, Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group

Vice Chairman Government Relations

Robyn Gruner, AT&T

Fox cities board of directors

Publisher: Shannon Meyer Fulleditor: Melody Lane Buller design: Coalesce, Inc.Printing: Northeast Wisconsin Printing Co. Advertising sales: Susan Vanden Heuvel, 920-734-7101

this issue Volume 13, Issue 5 | mAY 2012

designing user experiences; thomas bishop, page 6

Get the most out of Your next business trip; Jeff Hayes, page 4

moving toward Healthier Fox cities; margie weiss, pages 8-9

Fox Cities Chamber Business MAY 2012 3

With spring well upon us, new initiatives

in the Fox Cities area are sprouting

up everywhere. This month, our

magazine looks at some exciting

and unique initiatives.

First of all, who hasn’t utilized or read

about some form of new technology in

the last year? From our industrial and

manufacturing plants making strides

to streamline processes to our small

businesses being able to take credit

card payments on their iPad or tablet,

changes abound daily. Thomas Bishop

and Jeff Hayes both look at ways everyone

can benefit from the newest business

technology innovations.

Last month’s FVTC Referendum cleared

the way for not only the expansion and

improvement of existing programs but for

some new ones. Dr. Susan May shares

information about a new printing course

guaranteeing that the Fox Valley Technical

College produces the next generation of

printing specialists. Junior Achievement

recently produced a survey for students

emphasizing the importance of innovation

and the dreaming of big goals for today’s

young generation.

Outdoor living means wellness again

comes to the forefront. Just yesterday, our

area was touted as the number one spot

in the nation for sportsmen. Dr. Margie Weiss writes how the Well Cities Fox Cities

newest programs: Adopt-A-Student and

Adopt-An-Employer will create a healthier,

happier community.

Lastly, but certainly never least, I am so

pleased to announce that Jim Marks from

Fox cities sign and lighting services,

inc. is our April Business of the Month.

Jim’s involvement in the community as

well as his overwhelming service record

makes him the perfect first recipient of our

newest iniatitive to recognize outstanding

local businesses.

I hope you enjoy the weather this spring

and realize the uniqueness of our area as

we continue to be the progressive and

innovative Fox Cities.

SHANNON MEYER FULLPRESIDENT/CEO

president’s perspective

new initiatives in the Fox

cities area are sprouting up everywhere.

this month our magazine looks

at some exciting and unique initiatives.

4 Fox Cities Chamber Business MAY 2012

tecHnoloGY:

Get the most out of Your next business tripWhich technologies are the most useful when traveling for business? One great value provided by the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce is opportunity for its members to learn through foreign travel. To see and experience other cultures is to place our brains in a “fast learn” cycle. On a recent business trip to Japan, I felt technologically better prepared than ever before for foreign travel. Here are some tips for helping you to become a “business savant” on your next trip:

One final thought: It’s not enough to purchase devices and download the apps you think you’ll use. You need to become adept at using the technology before you hop on the plane.

JEFF HAYESPRINCIPAL

ALIGNTECH SOLUTIONS LLC

featured story

devices:

• iPhone: I recommend a GSM-based iPhone such as with AT&T. Recently AT&T has gotten their preparing for foreign travel script down to a science. I had no trouble anywhere with inbound or outbound calls, text messaging, email communication or even billing after the fact.

• iPad: I took an iPad along as well as a notebook computer. Because I also have a keyboard for the iPad, I found that I didn’t need the notebook at all.

the mobile apps or applications we found to be the most valuable included:

• ibooks (or eBooks in general): There are some excellent books available to help you build affinity with your foreign business counterparts. Learning a bit about their culture is both a compliment to them and an important strategic business tool. But don’t carry books around.

• Fly delta (app): This single app takes a lot of the struggle out of travel. If you’re flying Delta Airlines, install this app as soon as possible. It tracks frequent flyer numbers, your itinerary, checks your flight status(es), looks up alternative flights and optionally alerts you when it’s time to check-in.

• mastercard Atm Hunter (app): This app does one thing well and that is to help MasterCard customers find the nearest ATMs that will allow them to get cash. In a place like Japan where a very small percentage of the ATMs are likely to work with your bank card, this is a valuable tool.

• social media: Twitter, Facebook, Foursquare, Instagram. Stay in touch with your followers, particularly when you have something novel to share.

• linkedin: Some industries and many parts of the world have not yet widely adopted the use of LinkedIn. Show your potential business partners how to share their professional information and trusted contacts by inviting them to join you on LinkedIn.

Now Relieving Pain in the Fox Valley Advanced Pain Management is pleasedto announce the opening of our new location at 2700 E. Enterprise Avenue in Appleton. At APM our goal is to relieve pain, restore function and renew

hope for our patients.

Offering advanced treatments for:Back & Neck Pain • Sciatica

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www.APMhealth.com • 888-901-PAIN (7246)

Scan the code with your smart phone to view a video or visit www.apmhealth.com/foxvalley. Need a code reader? Go to get.neoreader.com.

Nileshkumar Patel, MD, MBABoard Certified Pain Management

Board Certified AnesthesiologyCleveland Clinic Fellowship TrainedMinimally Invasive Spine Specialist

Maurizio Albala, MDBoard Certified Pain Management

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Make sure your insurance plan includes Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin• Pediatric specialists and subspecialists from allergy to urology.• Fox Valley’s top-level intensive care nursery.• The only hospital in the region that treats children exclusively

and has pediatricians on site 24/7.• Inpatient care, specialty care and neonatal intensive care in the Fox Valley.

It’s easy to see why Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin means the best care for kids. And just in case your child ever needs more, we’re your connection to Children’s in Milwaukee, rated one of the best in the nation.

130 Second St., Neenah(920) 969-7900

Every child. Every need. Every day.

chw.org/fox valley

120014


What makes people passionate, pure and simple, is great experiences.” – Jesse James Garrett

”


We all want our businesses to grow. We want our customers to fall in love with our products because at the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about. This especially rings true online. Our customers’ experiences online should be carefully crafted and consistent with our business offline. What we should really be after is a simplified approach designed around *User Experience*.

What is user Experience? User

Experience (UX) is defined as: “the way a person

feels about using a product, system or service.” A great online user experience essentially boils down to a few

things: it is intuitive, it is consistent and it has clear messaging.

What does it mean for our businesses? Simply put, much of the time it means the difference between gaining or retaining a customer, and losing a valuable customer. It’s not always that black and white, but common sense dictates that if your customers aren’t enjoying their experiences online, it’s going to leave a sour taste in their mouths. And because it’s an extension

of our businesses, it is a representation of our brands and should be at the core of all of our businesses, regardless of industry.

so what should we be doing differently? Unfortunately, there isn’t a magic button we can press to achieve a great user experience online, but what we can do is adjust our mental approach to that of experiences. Focusing on that approach can only have a positive effect on our businesses. In turn, this will help our customers find what they need and will be more likely to love our brands.

My personal recommendation is this: hire an expert. Although we all know what we like and what works for us, that doesn’t make us UX experts. Hire somebody who really understands the patterns, psychology and art behind UX, because in the end it will make your customers happier.

tecHnoloGY:

designing user experiences for our customers

THOMAS bISHOPbISHOP CREATIVE

featured story

Let the images speak for themselves

www.craigaugustinephoto.comP. 920.810.2616


tecHnoloGY:

designing user experiences for our customers

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(920) 954-9778www.fastsigns.com/267


featured story

wellness:

moving Forward towards a Healthier Fox citiesResearch has shown that work-based, school-based and community-based wellness initiatives can make a difference in the health of a whole community. Well City Fox Cities (WCFC) is a volunteer-based initiative encouraging healthy lifestyles through employer-based wellness efforts. WCFC is determined to obtain a Well City designation for this area over a 3-year period. WCFC has representatives from so many of our local companies involved in the WCFC initiative. WCFC has 56 employers, representing over 34,215 employees, which is 23% of the employed workforce in the Fox Cities. Members from the all-volunteer Advisory Board, along with WELCOA, facilitate Learning Circles, each focusing on one of the seven Benchmarks of Wellness.

Recently, WCFC held the second annual awards event. The cornerstone of the Wellness Council of America is the Well Workplace Awards process. By successfully integrating the Seven Benchmarks of results-oriented programs, the Well Workplace Award winners have demonstrated that their programs are not only comprehensive, but

effective. Fox Cities companies who have met the standards of excellence as defined by WELCOA’s Well Workplace Model over the past year include: Affinity Health system, Appleton, Aurora Health care and Kimberly clark corporation. Previous award

winners in 2011 include: Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, J.J. Keller, Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company, Werner Electric Supply and We Energies.

Adopt-An-employer The WCFC advisory Committee also procured grant funding to help local companies in their efforts to achieve Well Workplace awards. Appleton Area school district (AAsd) used the Adopt an Employer funds to encourage healthy, sustainable transportation alternatives and to help promote a Bike to Work Day. AASD also promoted participation in the Get up & Ride Bike Challenge. AZco, inc. used funds from Adopt an Employer to move to a targeted HRA

on-site screening process for biometrics. This onsite coaching was found to be more effective in supporting healthy lifestyle behaviors. The Fox cities chamber of commerce initiated a wellness committee to develop and implement targeted wellness programs. The Chamber has changed its catering guidelines for meetings to promote

MARGIE wEISSCEO, wEISS HEALTH GROUP

school-based and community-based wellness initiatives

can make a difference in the health of

a whole community.


healthier eating. Galloway company identified peer involvement as being a critical component to the success of the wellness programs. Company representatives attended the Wellness Conference in September, 2011. Adopt an Employer’s funds supported the “Moo”ver’s 8 week Fitness Challenge.” united way Fox cities sent staff to a Well Workplace University and purchased HRA and biometric screening services.

Adopt-A-student WCFC encourages youth-directed healthy lifestyle initiatives through Adopt-A-Student Grants. This year WCFC awarded four Adopt-A-Student grants. The Johnston elementary school recess committee oversees a recess cart of equipment for all school recess periods. Many students enjoy using the soccer balls, footballs, volleyballs, football tees, short and

long jump ropes, and playground balls. At times it is difficult to hand out the equipment fast enough. The Adopt a student funds will be used to purchase new equipment for the recess cart. mrs. marnie schneider’s 3rd Grade class at coolidge elementary was interested in how they could improve their overall wellness and keep their bodies healthy. Sitting on an exercise ball promotes flexibility, coordination, motor skills, core strengthening, and balance. Mrs. Schneider’s third grade class is the pilot for the whole school. They will be purchasing 26 stability balls for next school year. The Huntley Healthy Kids plan improves the health and wellness of Huntley staff and students by encouraging healthy snacks, trying out new healthy foods and enhancing the creative writing skills of the students. Student’s rotate bringing in healthy

snacks to share each week. lawrence university student wellness committee developed the Finals Stress Relief Program to improve the health and wellness of Lawrence University students by offering them a place where they can de-stress with meditation, a chair massage or by losing themselves in childhood games or activities during finals week. Finals Stress relief would take place Saturday June 2, 2012 from 1:00-3:00 pm.

These Well City Fox Cities efforts show how we all have a role in promoting healthy, safe, sustainable communities. School-based, workplace-based and family-focused healthy, sustainable living collaborative efforts can increase self-efficacy, collective efficacy and the capacity to improve and enhance overall community health. WCFC is out to prove this is true by gaining the Well City Award for the area.

Post your job openings on Wisconsin TechConnect, your online resource for

Wisconsin technical college graduates. It’s fast, easy to use, and free!

FVTC graduates come prepared with the skills required for today’s complex work environment.

Please remove prior to insertion:Fox Valley Technical College C125_12SES - May F.C. Business Mag

www.fvtc.edu/ses-employers(920) 735-JOBS (5627)[email protected]

Patty Van RyzinVP-Human Resources Bassett Mechanical

Student Employment Services


A sleeping Giant

The economic downturn affected American families’ finances on a variety of fronts, and reminded us of the importance of carefully preparing for a rainy day, by not overextending ourselves financially and having a monetary safety net in place. Yet have we given equal thought to the important role that our children’s career paths can play, not only in their economic futures, but in the economic future of our nation? The recession may have made us more fiscally prudent, but did it make us too scared to dream?

American innovation is at the core of what makes us great—the will to take chances and go all in on an idea. For us to maintain our status as an economic superpower, we need to keep dreaming, and dream big.

Junior Achievement USA and the ING Foundation recently surveyed a national sample of teens, asking them what their ideal job is, how confident they are that they’ll achieve their dream job, and perhaps most tellingly, if they’d give up that dream job for one that paid a higher salary. Less than half the teens we surveyed (43 percent) said they were very confident they’d have their “dream” job. Yet

a significant majority—71 percent—said they would give up their dream job for one that paid a higher salary.

There is a lot of talk—particularly now, during the presidential campaign—about the importance of creating jobs. And we agree, it is critical to create jobs to spur economic growth. But how will those jobs be created? It is through the power of American ingenuity and innovation, and the strength which lies in the belief that an idea can change the world.

As we recover from the recession, have we given thought to how it affected our children’s beliefs that they can be anything they want to be? These things are clear: we need to nurture our young peoples’ abilities to dream, and we need to give them the tools to plan and achieve those dreams. We can’t let America get left behind in the global economy.

When we asked teens about their ideal job, more than half (61 percent) said it was in science, technology, engineering, math or medicine. This is where the future of American innovation lies, and it is critical that we support our young people’s pursuit of these careers.

Junior Achievement has been empowering young people to live their dreams for nearly a century. We currently reach more than 4 million students nationwide and locally we impact more than 21,000 students in the Fox Cities and Oshkosh this year, giving them the skills, knowledge and confidence to live their dreams. We teach students how to start and grow their own businesses, by doing it.

We give students a safe environment in which to practice 21st century skills, such as problem-solving and teamwork, which are key to success in today’s business world. This critical education helps instill appropriate tolerance for risk, the understanding that failure is often the key to success, and most importantly, the guts to chase a dream.

The American Dream—and a robust economy—are out there. We must help our young people reach out and achieve them.

Read the full results of the 2012 Junior Achievement “Teens and Careers” Survey here: http://ja.org/docload/survey/Teens-and-Careers-Executive-summary.pdf.

Has the recession created a Generation too scared to dream big? Steve Erb, President, Board of Directors Junior Achievement of Wisconsin - Fox Cities and Oshkosh

featured story


A sleeping Giant Bruce Stroik, plant director for Quad Graphics with 30-plus years of experience in the printing and publishing industry, presented information on the health of the industry to nearly 100 visitors during Fox Valley Technical College’s annual Printing Technologies Open House.

Stroik emphasized that the printing industry is not dead; rather, it is constantly evolving through increased integration with mobile technology. Ironically, ink on paper is one of the leading resources of flexible data solutions for companies large and small, serving more than ever as the primary driver for all channels of information and marketing. These channels include retail, print, web, mobile, digital editions, e-mail, and social media.

“With all the communicative and marketing technology at our fingertips, there is an abundance of opportunity for skilled

printing and publishing professionals to be part of an industry that continues to drive innovation,” says Stroik. “One of the biggest challenges the industry faces is attracting and hiring enough people with a passion for print and print specific skills for rewarding careers in the printing industry. Fox Valley Technical College is a prime example of a reputable, local resource that produces the next generation of printing specialists.”

Quad Graphics, based in Lomira, Wisconsin, is the second largest provider of print and multichannel solutions in the world. Fox Valley Technical College offers degree-based training in both Package & Label Printing and Printing & Publishing, in addition to customized workplace training and print trial assessments for industry.

For more information, visit www.fvtc.edu/printing.

printing industry

“There is an abundance of

opportunity for skilled printing and publishing

professionals to be part of an industry

that continues to drive innovation.”

– Bruce Stroik Plant Director

Quad Graphics

DR. SUSAN MAY PRESIDENT, FOx VALLEY TECHNICAL COLLEGE

2401 E. Enterprise AvenueAppleton • 920-882-4070

www.McCarty-Law.com

McCarty Law LLP welcomes Attorney Philip A. Munroe to its Fox Valley practice.

Phil, a resident of Neenah, received his undergraduate degree from Dartmouth College (A.B.) and earned his law degree at Boston University School of Law (J.D.).

Phil’s practice consists of litigating general civil matters ranging from auto accident cases to contracts to administrative matters, as well as employment discrimination matters and challenges to real estate tax assessments. He also works with financial institutions on loan workouts and collections.

Growing to serve your needs

I. Gregg Curry IV • John J. Russo • Steven J. Cerasoli • Scott C. Barr • Reg P. WydevenRebecca L. Kent • Kristy A. Christensen • Jennifer T. Bania • Michael W. Curry • Philip A. Munroe

Of Counsel: Dennis M. Wydeven • Randall A. Haak • John A. Esler


Lawmakers Recognized for Supporting America’s Job Creators

Sen. Kohl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50%

sen. Johnson . . . . . . . . . . 73%

rep. ryan . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100%

Rep. Baldwin . . . . . . . . . . . . 13%

Rep. Kind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31%

Rep. Moore . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13%

rep. sensenbrenner . . . . . 94%

rep. petri . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94%

rep. Duffy . . . . . . . . . . . . 100%

rep. ribble. . . . . . . . . . . . 100%

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce recently honored 248 members of the House and 50 members of the Senate with the annual Spirit of Enterprise Award for their support of pro-jobs, pro-growth policies during the first session of the 112th Congress.

“Faced with difficult choices and high-stakes politics, these men and women provided America’s business community with a strong voice in Congress,” said Thomas J. Donohue, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber. “We honor these members today for having consistently demonstrated their support for America’s job creators.”

The Chamber’s prestigious Spirit of Enterprise Award, in its 24th year, is given annually to members of Congress based on key business issues outlined in the Chamber publication “How They Voted.” Members who support the Chamber’s position on at least 70% of those votes qualify to receive the award.

The Chamber scored Congress on 11 Senate and 16 House votes in 2011, including the repeal of 1099 reporting requirements, the 3% withholding from contractors, and the health care law. Also scored were votes for a surface transportation extension and the free trade agreements, including South Korea and Columbia.

Here are the scores of the Wisconsin delegation, with the Spirit of Enterprise winners in bold. The Spirit of Enterprise Award is given to members with scores above 70%.

u.s. chamber Honors 298 Pro-business members of congress with spirit of enterprise Award

economic development

horizontal logo

stacked logo


new members

we welcome new members to the chamberBARBARA’S AVonMs. Barbara Techlin2263 Redtail Dr.Neenah, WI 54956-1081(920) 858-0647Sponsor: Joanne FischerAvon Independent Sales Representativewww.youravon.com/BTechlin

BuffALo WiLD WinGSMr. Daren Miller4601 W. College Ave.Appleton, WI 54914(920) 830-4169Sponsor: Dennis JochmanSPORTS BAR/DININGwww.buffalowildwings.com

CounTRY finAnCiALMr. Scott Stanich5793 Grande Market Dr. Ste. AGrand Chute, WI 54913-8470(920) 997-9544Sponsor: Joanne FischerINSURANCE - INVESTMENTSwww.countryfinancial.com

foxWooD ASSoCiATES, inC.Mr. Michael Fabich1950 Paint Horse TrailDe Pere, WI 54115-7951(920) 246-2724Sponsor: Mickey NooneMANAGEMENT CONSULTANTwww.foxwoodassociaties.com

GRASS RooTS ShoP SERViCES, inC.Mr. Charles Duginski1020 American Dr. Ste. 3Neenah, WI 54956-1882(920) 268-8902Sponsor: Dennis JochmanMACHINE SHOPwww.grassrootsshopservices.com

nuMBER onE MARkETinGMr. Paul Wittmann100 W. Lawrence St.Appleton, WI 54911-5773(920) 730-9601Sponsor: Joanne FischerADVERTISINGwww.numberonemarketing.com

SoLA SALon STuDioSMr. Dan Hoeck1058 Vander Maazen Dr.Greenville, WI 54942(920) 366-7652Sponsor: Tommy Vanden HeuvelHAIR SALONwww.solasalonstudios.com


Have you heard of the latest social media trend called Pinterest? Pinterest is a new social media site that acts as an online bulletin board of images. The site allows users to catalogue and share images within their networks. Why should businesses care? Pinterest gives businesses another way to tell their story and encourage people to visit their website. All images on Pinterest link back to the original website, allowing for a new channel for people to find your company online. You never know how someone will find you and this is another platform to distribute your content. If you decide to try out this new site, here are some tips to get the most out of your investment.

1. make sure your company is a good fit. Just like any other social media site, make sure Pinterest fits your company. Even though most social media sites are free, they all require a far more valuable resource, time. Pick social sites that you feel your team can manage well. It’s far better to be great at a few rather than be mediocre or poor at many.

2. invest upfront. Take the time on the front-end to fully understand Pinterest and how people are utilizing the site. Build your boards and

follow others before promoting your participation.

3. Find inspiration. Pinterest is all about sharing ideas, visually. In addition to sharing your great content, make sure to find inspiration for yourself and your company from other people’s boards. Unlike, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn which were built on connecting people, Pinterest was built on visual inspiration and creativity. People connect with one another because they find the other person’s boards interesting.

4. Determine how you will use the site. Keep in mind that Pinterest is all about imagery, so make sure your website/blog utilizes lots of interesting images that tell a story about your company. Consider adding text to your images to further describe why someone would be interested. Text can be added directly to the image or in the description below the image. Many products are pinned and repinned on Pinterest as well. Some of these products have the price listed right in the image making it easy for people to gather information about products they are interested in. Prices can

be easily added to any image simply by entering in the price when pinning an image. Lastly, Pinterest is a great platform to run contests and promote sales.

If you determine that Pinterest would be a valuable channel for your company, make sure to think about your products and services visually. Great content should be the primary driver for your Pinterest involvement. Finally, make sure to track your efforts. Pinterest makes it very easy to track pins from your site, simply visit pinterest.com/source/yourwebsite.com/.

Forget Facebook and twitter, Pinterest is the latest social media craze for business

marketing 101


business expo June 6, 2012

Business Expo 2012 is the Chamber’s annual trade and networking event designed to give Chamber members affordable access to the business community. Business Expo is a cost-efficient and easy way to get new business and renew existing business relationships. This year there is a new venue and a trifecta of business networking opportunities.

Business Expo 2012 will be held at the Radisson Paper Valley Hotel in downtown Appleton on Wednesday, June 6, from 1:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. The Expo is part of a trio of events starting with the Awards Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., followed by the Expo and for the grand finale’, Chamber members and exhibitors are invited to an exclusive after-hours networking event from 5 – 7 p.m. hosted by the Radisson Paper Valley Hotel.

The Business Awards Luncheon attracts more than 500 attendees honoring our local businesses. This year the Awards include:

Presenting Sponsor: Contributing Sponsors:

business expo

skyline exhibit resource will do

a free seminar for exhibitors on

wednesday, April 11th, 7:30 a.m. at the chamber

that will offer tips & tactics

for a successful booth and show.

•service of the Year Award

•wholesale / retail of

the Year Award

•manufacturing of the Year Award

•company leadership

•company innovation

and/or creativity

•exemplary marketing and/or

Growth Performance

•rising star Award - service

•rising star Award -

wholesale / retail

•rising star Award - manufacturing

taking care of business in 2012 Making connections - Growing your business.

letterhead

brochures

business cards

logos

envelopes

copies/color copies

banners

invitations

Digital printing

In-house graphic design

High impact color copies

Fast service

920.739.5218534 W. Wisconsin Avenue • Appleton, WI

We help you put the pieces together!

Email, phone or fax your files / orders!

Need a quote?Use our online quote form.

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out and about

Ribbon Cutting at Great Harvest bread Company

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

UW-Fox Valley Communication Arts Center

1478 Midway Road, Menasha 5:00 p.m. — Hors d’ Oeuvres & Networking

6:15 to 7:15 p.m.— Awards Presentation 7:15 to 8:00 p.m.— Dessert Reception

Cost: $30 per person RSVP by May 4, 2012

Go online to

www.foxcitiesyoungprofessionals.com Or call 920.734.7101

Presented by:

Venue Sponsor:

Event Sponsors:


EVENTS

2012 2012 -- Marketing OpportunitiesMarketing Opportunities

Meet Your Legislators—January Business Connection with elected officials. Averaging 300+ attendees Premier Sponsors: $750 Contributing Sponsors: $500 Future 15 Young Professional Awards Premier Sponsors: $1,000

Golf Outing—August Premier Sponsor: $3,000 Golf Cart Sponsor: $2,000 Golf Lunch Sponsor: $1,500 Golf Reception Sponsor: $1,500 All in One Sponsor: $ 800 Tee or Hole Sponsors: $ 350 Beverage Sponsors: $ 100

Quarterly Business Symposiums Presenting Sponsor: $1,000 per symposium $3,500 for all 4 Career Fair—March Presenting Sponsor: $3,000 Premier Sponsor: $1,000 Contributing Sponsors: $ 500 Small Business Sponsors: $ 250

ANNUAL S IGNATURE EVENTS

The Event—mid-October to early November Annual Meeting averaging 900 attendees Presenting Sponsor: $10,000 Premier Sponsors: $ 5,000 Contributing Sponsors: $ 2,500 Corporate Packages: $ 750

PROGRAMS

Pulse, Young Professionals Network Opportunity to sponsor monthly events ($600), annual CEO Breakfast or Future 15 Awards ($1,500 each).

Pulse CEO Breakfast Presenting Sponsor: $1,500 Leadership Fox Cities LFC Retreat $2,500 LFC Graduation $1,500 LFC Executive Program $1,500 LFC Youth Program $1,500

Opportunity to sponsor monthly events ($600), annual 8 month program or Executive Leadership Program ($1,500 each).

Fox Cities Chamber Business, the Chamber’s monthly print magazine, has 85,580 touches in the business community per issue, reaching business owners, senior level executives, managers, supervisors, sales & marketing and small business owners. Contact Susan Vanden Heuvel for an editorial calendar and rate sheet. Member411, the Chamber’s bi-weekly e-newsletter reaches 3,000 email addresses. Chamber Mobile App $500 for 6 months

ADVERTIS ING

Business Awards—June Presenting Sponsors: $7,500 Premier Sponsors: $1,000

Business Expo—June Together with the Business Awards Program. Presenting Sponsors: $2,500 Premier Sponsors: $1,500 Contributing Sponsors: $ 750

Christa McAuliffe Academy Many opportunities for class, tour or break sponsorships. Contact the Chamber for more information. F.O.C.U.S. / STEM F.O.C.U.S. (fostering our communities understanding of STEM – science, technology, engineering and math) a shared resource and economic system for all things related to STEM in the Fox Cities including mentoring of students in grades 5-9. Please contact the chamber for more information on how you can become involved in the development of our future workforce.

Economic Outlook Breakfast—February Results of the economic outlook survey are presented. Averaging 600+ attendees Presenting Sponsor: $2,500 Premier Sponsors: $1,000 Contributing Sponsors: $ 500


accoladesboYs & Girls clubs oF tHe Fox vAlleY receives DreaMerS anD DoerS aWarD Appleton Downtown, Inc. recognized the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Fox Valley on March 27th with its 2012 Dreamers and Doers Award for the renovation and expansion of its downtown Appleton facilities and programs. The annual Dreamers and Doers Award recognizes a business, group or individual “who has significantly enhanced, for years to come, the physical and/or economic landscape of the downtown.” Improvements to the downtown Appleton Boys & Girls Club include:

• TheCLUBTeenCenter,a10,000squarefootspacededicated for service to teens that includes a music recording studio, soundstage, fitness center, career development center and more.

•Aperformingartswingfeaturingadancestudio,musicroom, and micro-theatre for drama.

• TheYouthResourceCenterwheretheorganization’sCenter for Grieving Children, Youth & Family Counseling Program, Runaway Assistance Program, and Truancy Assessment Center are now housed.

• Improvedandexpandedacademicsupportprogramareas including two new Technology Centers, a Learning Center, a reading library, and two additional age-specific educational support rooms where Club members can learn study skills, engage in high-yield learning activities, gain technology access, and enhance their computer skills.

leibold AssociAtes wins tHree Gold And Five silver AddY AwArds Leibold, a strategic marketing and packaging design firm, received eight Addy awards at the Northeastern Wisconsin Addy Award presentation on February 29th at Lambeau Field. Leibold was awarded a Gold Addy for a Huggies® Little Snugglers Newborn Gift Set, a Neenah Paper Environment® Folding Board Promotion and their 2011 Holiday Gift. They were also awarded Silver Addy’s for Huggies® Baby Wipes Decor Tubs, Huggies® Baby Wipes Disney® Display, Huggies® Little Movers Designer Tote, Huggies® Baby Wipes Holiday Cozy and a Jewelers Mutual® Bridal Magazine ad.

advancementsGoodwill ncw Announces Promotion And new Hires in APPleton AreA coreY mArtin has been promoted to café team leader and will oversee operations at Goodwill’s Harmony Café locations in Appleton and Green Bay. Prior to joining Harmony Café operations several months ago as the acting café team leader, Martin was a Lean specialist and area team leader with Goodwill’s retail operations. Gary madsen has joined Goodwill’s Shiner Center Logistics team in Appleton as the new logistics inventory planner. Madsen comes to Goodwill from Orizon Ingenuity in Neenah where he was the executive vice president. brian britz has been hired as an assistant team leader at the Darboy Goodwill where he will oversee the apparels area. Prior to joining Goodwill, Britz was a sales representative with West Business Services.

GArdAn, inc. Promotes JoHn dennis to comPAnY President, ceo GArdAn, inc., a leading contract assembly, packaging and wire processing firm serving customers in the Midwest, United States and Globally announced a change in company leadership with the promotion of John Dennis as its new company president and CEO. As head of the company, Dennis will be responsible for the company’s profitability, stability, leadership and overall business direction. Dennis joined Gardan in 2008 as a sales engineer and was most recently promoted to the position of vice president in October 2011. He brings over 10 years of experience in manufacturing to the company and holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

announcementsJ. J. Keller suPPorts wYlAnd FoundAtion’s nAtionAl wAter conservAtion ProGrAm as part of the company’s environmental stewardship efforts. The Mayor’s Challenge For Water Conservation is a competition among cities across the country running from March 30-April 30, 2012. Citizens are encouraged to pledge online to reduce their water usage, and the ratio of participants to the population determines their city’s performance. Founded by renowned environmental artist

accolades, advancements and announcements


Wyland, the Wyland Foundation has helped children and families to rediscover the importance of healthy oceans and waterways.

new tool oFFers Advice For deAlinG witH A Foreclosure in tHe neiGHborHood People dealing with the effects of a home foreclosure in their neighborhood can find helpful advice in a new handout developed by a community task force assembled by United Way Fox Cities and the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region.The two-sided “Fox Cities Foreclosure 4-1-1” offers tips on how to know if a property has been abandoned and how to work with the owner, lender, municipality and other neighbors to reduce the negative effects on the neighborhood. It can be accessed on the websites of the United Way (unitedwayfoxcities.org), Community Foundation (cffoxvalley.org) and The Post-Crescent (postcrescent.com/foreclosure411), and will be available soon on the websites of area libraries, municipalities, churches and Neighborhood Watch groups.

cHAritY cHAllenGe dollArs mAKinG A diFFerence on mAnY Fronts The Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region’s 25 for 25 Charity Challenge – which awarded $187,500 to 25 Fox Valley-area nonprofit organizations based on more than 69,500 online votes cast during 10 days in October – is helping to make a difference across the region.The public nonprofit posted on its website (cffoxvalley.org) an interactive graphic to display how the recipients of five endowments of $25,000 and 25 grants of $2,500 awarded as part of its 25th anniversary celebration are putting the money to good use. Designed and donated by Skyline Technologies, Appleton, a graphic of 25 thumbnail photos represents the 25 Charity Challenge recipients. Users click on the thumbnails to reveal a larger photo and a short description of how the grant and endowment money will be used.

business of the month

Congratulations

Fox cities sign and lighting services is a client focused sign and lighting company located on West Tuckaway Lane in Menasha. Founded in 2006, the firm sells and installs new signs and services existing signs, such as pylon signs, monument signs, electronic message centers, readerboards, neon signs and Channel letters. Fox Cities Sign also services parking lot lights, security lights, and any other exterior lighting. Fox Cities Sign also does work with flag poles, awnings, banners, vinyl graphics and more.

“We’ll keep an eye on your sign!” That is more than just a motto, but our way of service. One thing that sets us apart is physically driving around at night and taking pictures of your sign to show outage issues or services needed. Pictures are often shown to our customers in person or can be emailed to our customers to enhance ease of service letting them know what is happening with their sign. This is a free service to our customers.

business oF tHe montH | APril, 2012JAmes A. mArKs

Fox cities siGn & liGHtinG services, llc 1125AWESTTUCKAWAYLANE•MENASHA,WI54952•(920)378-3515


• working on the annual Washington Fly-In scheduled for May 21-23. The event is done in conjunction with the U.S. Chamber’s Small Business Summit and includes nationally recognized speakers, terrific networking opportunities and a trip to Capitol Hill to meet with our Congressional Delegation. Cost of the trip - $1,999, and includes; airfare, hotel, conference registration, ground transport, and dinner

• Hosted a breakfast conversation with noted economist Dr. Douglas Holtz-Eakin, and U.S. Congressman Reid Ribble. The conversation included; a look at the enormous impact of state and federal regulations on business, and the need for pro-growth corporate tax reform. Dr. Holtz-Eakin also shared his belief that Wisconsin’s budget and labor issues mirror the Nation’s budget and labor issues

• invited to speak to a class of business students at the University of Wisconsin Fox Valley regarding the relationship between business and government

• Attended a conference sponsored by Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce addressing the need to maintain a quality workforce and ensure a strong economic climate. Topics included; workforce shortages and skill deficiencies, human resource and talent management, and changing the image of Advanced

Manufacturing. There were a number of Fox Cities Chamber members in attendance

• Participated in a conference call with Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch to discuss; what Wisconsin is doing to get more aggressive in tackling unemployment, why it makes good sense to hire a vet, and what we need to do to lay the groundwork for jobs of the future

• Participated in a small business summit organized by Congressman Tom Petri. Held at the Lakeshore Technical College in Cleveland, Wisconsin, the summit focused on how to go about developing a more positive economic environment for business, and dealing with the skills gap in manufacturing. The focus panels included representatives from; The New North, Small Business Administration, Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, school Superintendents, the Department of Workforce Development, and manufacturing

• Addressed the Outagamie County Board regarding a resolution calling for the county to withdraw from the Fox Valley Workforce Development Board (FVWDB), and join the Bay Area Workforce Development Board. The Chamber expressed its support for any position taken by the board as long as it was in the best interests of the local workforce

government affairs

• staged a mock interview of a local business allowing committee volunteers to better understand a successful approach in conducting a business interview

• establishing a small business mentoring program by the Small Business Committee to aid local business

• discussed how best the FCEDP (Fox Cities Economic Development Partnership) can assist the implementation of the recommendations of the Garner Study: Ignite Fox Cities and streamline one-stop business permitting to better encourage business development

• investigating how to best use LocateInWisconsin, a building & site database recently embraced the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, to market local available buildings and sites

• established an EB-5 Task Force to submit an application for the creation of a EB-5 Regional Center in the Fox Cities to encourage foreign direct investment in local business. Applications for EB-5 status are due this fall with notification of successful applications expected early next year

economic development

department updates


• Aone-weekteachertrainingprogramoftheFoxCitiesAlliance for Education, a division of the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce

• Held at Appleton North High School July 16-20, 2012

• offers classes in math, science, technology, literacy and other areas of professional development taught by master instructors from around the state

• Keeps the cost of graduate credit low. The Academy is offered for 0 to 3 credits. Cost of 3 graduate credits is $685.

• offers teachers the opportunity to visit local businesses

and observe how learning is applied in the work world. Employers spend time talking and sharing ideas with teachers

• Provides networking opportunities. Teachers from around the state attend the Academy

• The teachers that attended the 2011 Academy gave it an enthusiastic “thumbs up” on their evaluations. An impressive 98% rated the Academy, the instructors and workshops as Excellent!

• For more information, contact Mary Jane Grissman, Manager, [email protected]; www.christamcAuliffeAcademy.com

christa mcAuliffe Academy

• welcomed 33 new Chamber members during the second quarter of our new fiscal year

• conducting the Chamber’s Annual Spring Membership Campaign during April and May. If you know of a business that is not a Chamber member and should be, please contact the Chamber at 734-7101 or [email protected]

• Hosting the May Business Connection at waverly beach, N8770 Firelane 1, Menasha with Doug Schneider and the team on May 23, from 5-7 p.m. Please come and enjoy the scenic views of Lake Winnebago, meet other Chamber members and build your business network. To register, please contact us at 734-7101 or go to our website – www.foxcitieschamber.com

• Attended the following ribbon cuttings: Pearce wireless, Great Harvest bread company and buffalo

wild wings. Ambassadors are volunteers from Chamber member companies that serve as the goodwill arm of the Chamber. Their activities include attending business ribbon cuttings and open houses, recruiting new members and making outreach calls to the Chamber membership. If you are interested in becoming a Chamber Ambassador, please contact the Chamber at 734-7101 or [email protected] a

• Thebreakfast networking connection on May 31st, is a great opportunity to make new contacts and promote your business. This event is held at the Chamber office at 7:30 a.m. You will have 2 minutes to talk about your business, distribute business cards and brochures. To register, please contact us at 734-7101 or go to our website – www.foxcitieschamber.com

membership

• April 19th – Historic Pub Tour with Nancy Barker – We will take a bus tour of Neenah/Menasha and learn about much of the area’s history

• April 24th – Leaderfest 2012 is hosted this year by Manitowoc’s Sail Young Professional group. This full day of professional/Leadership development will be held at Fox Hills Resort

• may 15th – The Fox Cities Future 15 Young Professionals Awards held at UW Fox Valley’s CAC. Please plan to attend this wonderful event celebrating our 15 young professionals.

pulse


Thank you for your

support...The 2012 Fox cities 8th Grade career Fair was a huge success. On March 28, approximately 3,200 students from the Fox Cities explored career options while participating in a valuable, relevant and educational experience. Eighth graders from 25 public and private middle schools participated. More than 90 adult volunteers representing 60 different business disciplines presented to the students.

We work closely with schools to ensure that this is a valuable experience for both students and presenters. Students take a career assessment to help determine which of the three career clusters they will visit. Volunteers from business and industry staffed 55 booths in 16 different “career clusters”. They explained required education and the necessary communication skills needed to interact with co-workers. Presenters offered a short interactive activity or display. This experience will help inspire students to choose appropriate high school courses for their future careers.

Cluster areas included Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources; Architecture and Construction; Arts, A/V Technology and Communications; Business, Management and Administration; Education and Training; Finance, Government and Public Administration; Health Science; Hospitality and Tourism; Human Services; Information Technology; Law, Public Safety and Security; Manufacturing; Marketing; Sales and Service; Science; Technology, Engineering and Mathematics; and Transportation, Distribution and Logistics.

Thank you to our sponsors:

sponsorship thank you

We can help.

PASSION?What’s your

PASSION?

LEGACY.Make it your

LEGACY.

[email protected] 920-830-1290

Watch our new “Your Life. Your Legacy.” video at cffoxvalley.org/legacy

2011 Legacy video ad.indd 1 11/30/11 2:45 PM

WINNER2007 & 2009 Restaurateur of the Year

111 East Kimball Streetwww.michielsfoxbanquets.com

SAVOR THEEXPERIENCECatering & Banquet Facilities

• CorporateEvents• Celebrations• Weddings• FamilyParties• OffSiteCateringforupto2000• BeautifulOpenMeetingSpace• OpenAtmospherewithWindows ontheRiver• ApprovedCatererforthe FoxCitiesPerformingArtsCenter &GardensoftheFoxCities

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out and about

Ribbon Cutting at buffalo wild wings

2012 Plan

ning

Signature Events

Economic Outlook Breakfast Wednesday, 2/1/12 Radisson Paper Valley Hotel 333 W. College Ave. , Appleton 7:30-9:00 AM $20/individual member; $225/table (10) member price $30/prospective member; $225/table (10) member price

Legislative Dialogue Breakfast Monday, 1/30/12 Radisson Paper Valley Hotel 333 W. College Ave. , Appleton 7:15-9:00 AM $20/person

Business Awards & Business Expo Wednesday, 6/6/12 Radisson Paper Valley Hotel 333 W. College Ave. , Appleton Awards Luncheon 11:30 AM—1:30 PM Expo 1:30—5:00 PM Business Connection 5:00—7:00 PM

Signature Symposium Series Wednesday, 2/1/12 Radisson Paper Valley Hotel 333 W. College Ave. , Appleton 9:00-11:45 AM $45/person

Golf Outing & Big Ball Drop Tuesday, 8/14/12 Butte des Morts Country Club 3600 W. Prospect Ave., Appleton Cost and time to be determined

Future 15 Awards Mid May Details to be determined

The Event ~ Celebrating Business Mid October to early November Details to be determined

Breakfast Networking Connections

January 26 February 23 March 29 April 26 May 31 June 28 July 26 August 30 September 27 October 25 November 29 December—no meeting

Fox Cities Chamber Office 125 N. Superior St., Appleton Last Thursday of the month 7:30-9:00 AM; $2 at the door

Please check the Chamber website foxcitieschamber.com for updated information about each of the event dates, times, locations and costs. You can register directly online.

Wednesday, 2/15/12 Fidelity National Bank 1500 N. Casaloma Dr. , Appleton

Monday, 1/23/12 Meet Your Legislators Radisson Paper Valley Hotel 333 W. College Ave. , Appleton

Wednesday, 3/14/12 Solea Mexican Grill 1350 Gillingham Rd., Neenah

Wednesday, 4/25/12 Famous Dave’s 1170 N. Westhill Blvd., Appleton

Wednesday, 5/23/12 Waverly Beach N8770 Firelane 1, Menasha

Wednesday, 6/6/12 Part of the Business Expo Radisson Paper Valley Hotel 333 W. College Ave. , Appleton

Tuesday, 8/21/12 High Cliff Restaurant, Banquets and Catering W5095 Golf Course Rd., Sherwood

Tuesday, 7/17/12 Appleton Yacht Club 1200 S. Lutz Dr., Appleton

Tuesday, 11/6/12 Grand Meridian 2621 N. Oneida St., Appleton

September, October & December Dates & Locations to be determined

Business Connections 5:00-7:00 PM; $2 prior to the event; $4 at the door; $20/prospective member


out and about

Ribbon Cutting at Pearce wireless

See Kip’s work at the following local businesses: Baye Dentistry, Van Zeeland Manufacturing, Veronica Tovar D.D.S., Apple Creek Orthodontics, The StoneYard, Players Choice, Innovative Machining & CountrySide Vet Services to name a few.

I’ve been called an “Over Achiever” all my life. With four children, a job I love, and involvement on multiple boards and committees, I’ve learned the art of prioritizing. Aside from my family, my clients come first; I always work over and above what they expect from a builder to help them achieve the building they need to grow and expand their businesses. My love of construction and passion for this community are the reasons I strive to achieve beyond anyone’s expectations.I am a face of Keller, and whatever you choose to call me, I hope to show you that I will do my best to get your project completed on time and within your budget. I am an Employee Owner, Project Manager, and Design/Build Expert. But don’t just take me at face value, call today and experience for yourself the difference that is Keller, Inc.

Construction Excellence Since 1960

Kip, AKA “Over Achiever”Project ManagerCo-Owner

1.800.236.2534 l www.kellerbuilds.com Offices in the Fox Cities, Madison, Milwaukee & Wausau

A FACE of Keller

Let the Name Calling Begin!Call Me “Over Achiever”

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:

Fox Cities Chamber business

c/o Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc.

PO box 1855

Appleton, wI 54912-1855

F O x C i T i E s C H A m b E r

Documents

Fox Cities Business - May Issue