Momentum West Wisconsin News

Inspire Connections Continues to Move Forward

Monday, November 12, 2018

The Inspire Connections program continues to move forward in the region. Currently there are over 200 business profiles active, over 60 coaches active with another 300 plus in the process of being activated, and nearly 300 learning opportunities for students in the region to participate in with the regions business and industry. Recently the Workforce Development Board has jump on board with the administration of the program. They are now available to consult businesses on profile development

Local Students Explore Careers at Manufacturing Day

Monday, November 12, 2018

CVTC hosts students from 14 school districts Eau Claire, WI – Leading a group of Durand High School juniors on a tour of the Industrial Mechanics lab at Chippewa Valley Technical College, instructor Jeff Johnson showed the group a simulated manufacturing center that utilizes automation and robotics to accomplish various tasks. Then he showed them equipment students use to learn about the electronic, pneumatic, hydraulic and other systems that make it all work. Exposing high school students to such technology and how it is used in industry today was one of the primary purposes of CVTC’s observance of Manufacturing Day Friday, Oct....

Talent Attraction Effort

Monday, November 12, 2018

Reflecting back on the Regional Talent Initiative, it is fair to say that it has been a success already. Our primary goal was to raise the awareness of our current and pending talent challenges, align our partners and our efforts in the region in a uniform direction, and launch initiatives that address these challenges. Although we may not have been able to tackle some of the suggested initiatives to date due to capacity issues, we have made progress. Illustrated with the success to date of Inspire Connections program evident in the number of active businesses (341) and several hundred career...

Clark County family seeks new image for controversial crop

Friday, November 09, 2018

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) -- Hemp farming has become a hot button topic surrounding its legalization and use across the nation, including the state of Wisconsin. Now, one Clark County family is making an investment in the controversial plant. “It's been used for the thousands of years until the last 60 years, why?” asks Jamie Degenhardt, a hemp farmer in Clark County. After a 60-year ban on hemp farming in Wisconsin was lifted, the Degenhardts are investing in the crop. Seeking new financial options, they started Cannabis Cultivators of Clark County, a licensed industrial hemp processor and grower based out of Neillsville The Degenhardts family business...

Buildings planned for Eau Claire's north side area

Thursday, November 08, 2018

One is expected to employ at least 50 Two new buildings are planned for a business park on Eau Claire’s north side, and they are expected to bring dozens of jobs. Plans for both of the warehouses bound for the Gateway Northwest Business Park will be up for a vote during a Plan Commission meeting. While one of the buildings would be almost entirely storage space and be staffed by a handful of workers, the other has offices included in it and would have 50 to 75 people working there, according to documents submitted to the city. Most of the latter building’s 120,000 square...

The Pablo factor: Downtown businesses anticipate boon with opening

Wednesday, November 07, 2018

At its core, the Pablo Center at the Confluence is a performing arts center. While that may be its starring role, local officials are confident the gleaming new structure that opens next weekend at the confluence of the Eau Claire and Chippewa rivers will mean more to Eau Claire than just a fancy new place to teach students about fine arts and hold plays, concerts and art shows. “I expect this to be an economic driver for the whole region,” said Pablo Center executive director Jason Jon Anderson, who envisions a “Pablo halo effect” that will be a catalyst for new business...

Local man creating an app to make traveling easier for those with disabilities

Tuesday, November 06, 2018

The 23-year-old with cerebral palsy has seen many countries despite using a wheelchair When Gabriel Schlieve began planning to move to China with his mother to teach English, many people told them they couldn’t do it. But instead of giving up his hopes of seeing the world, Gabriel, who was born with cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, treats others’ doubts as a challenge. He and his mother, Nancy Schlieve, successfully moved to southern China and taught English. He pulled himself out of his wheelchair and climbed the Great Wall of China. The Eau Claire residents have successfully traveled all over the world...

Former Syverson nursing home to go high-end

Monday, November 05, 2018

Upscale apartments there OK’d by Eau Claire Plan Commission; warehouse projects also approved in city The Eau Claire Plan Commission gave the go-ahead Monday night for two large warehouse projects in a northwest side business park and for developers to convert the former Syverson Lutheran Home into an upscale apartment building. The site plan for the nursing home project calls for Pablo Properties, Commonweal Development and Market & Johnson to transform the building at 816 Porter Ave. into 47 apartments. The project will include adding two parking garages, extensive interior renovations, improving the exterior architecture, upgrading the landscaping and adding to the fourth floor...

Local telecom co-ops offer path to expanding high-speed options in rural Wisconsin

Sunday, November 04, 2018

Pursuit Of Better Broadband Access in Rural Wisconsin Limited access to reliable, high-speed internet service is an issue facing rural Wisconsin that generates a lot of attention and calls for action, but change may seem to be moving at a crawl. For many Wisconsinites, lower-speed broadband options or lack of access entirely stifles individual economic opportunities and limits business development options for communities. The state fares poorly in national rankings of this infrastructure. U.S. News and World Report lists Wisconsin: • 41st in the United States in its ranking for internet access • 40th for ultra-fast internet access and • 32nd for broadband access. Meanwhile, a report released in July ranked...

Website ranks Chippewa Falls No. 2 in the state as an attractive place for retirees

Friday, November 02, 2018

CHIPPEWA FALLS — Chippewa Falls is a great place to retire because of its numerous recreational and social opportunities for retirees, according to the website Smartasset.com. The investment firm ranked Chippewa Falls No. 2 on its list of the top 10 cities in Wisconsin for seniors to retire. In 2016, the city was ranked No. 8 by Smartasset.com. The city earned its ranking because it has 2.1 doctor offices per 1,000 people, 0.8 recreation centers per 1,000 people, 1 retirement center per 1,000 people, and 17.6 percent of the residents are senior citizens, the website states. The website also factors in state and local...

Chippewa County contest to judge business ideas

Thursday, November 01, 2018

Winning entrepreneur earns cash prize, moves on to next round CHIPPEWA FALLS — Similar to the hit ABC show “Shark Tank,” entrepreneurs in Chippewa County will make their pitch to judges for creative and fresh business ideas in hopes of winning money. The Chippewa County Economic Development Corp. is hosting “Hatch” at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 27, at the Chippewa River Distillery, 402 W. River St., where six or seven entrepreneurs will present their case on their business ideas. The winner will receive a $2,000 cash prize and move on to another round, where they could win an additional $5,000. Charlie Walker, CCEDC executive...

Brian McAlpine Chose the Momentum West Region After Living in the East Coast and Colorado

Wednesday, October 31, 2018

Brian McAlpine has a job that he loves. As a successful commercial insurance advisor, he works with businesses and property owners throughout the region, helping them solve some of their most pressing challenges. “I learn something new every day because I am constantly looking for new ways to help my customers,” Brian commented. For example, he was recently presented with a unique challenge. One of his customers was looking to sell their manufacturing company but the buyer wanted to make sure that the products were insured against defect or liability after the purchase was complete. Through his role at Bremer...

Good weather made for good harvesting in Wisconsin, report says

Wednesday, October 31, 2018

Sunny skies and dry weather was great news for Wisconsin farmers last week, with crops maturing rapidly and harvesting in full throttle. The USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending Sept. 16 showed 6.6 out of 7.0 days suitable for field work, the highest number of the growing season so far. “Farmers took to the fields during a much-needed stint of dry weather,” the report said. “Clear, sunny skies and above normal temperatures firmed up wet ground and pushed crops quickly to maturity.” Conditions were great for making hay, with both the third and fourth alfalfa crops moving...

New internship program aims to keep UW grads in western Wisconsin

Tuesday, October 30, 2018

Three University of Wisconsin System institutions in western Wisconsin are joining with a regional economic development organization to create a new internship program designed to keep graduates in the area after college. UW-Eau Claire, UW-River Falls, UW-Stout and Momentum West have created the University of Wisconsin Internship Network (UWIN), a shared initiative aimed at encouraging more western Wisconsin businesses to establish internship and co-op programs. UW-Eau Claire Chancellor James Schmidt, UW-River Falls Chancellor Dean Van Galen, UW-Stout Chancellor Bob Meyer, and Steven Jahn, executive director of Momentum West, jointly announced the new program last week. Click here for the complete article.

UW-Stout launches public phase of campaign

Tuesday, October 30, 2018

University engaged in $35 million fundraising effort MENOMONIE — UW-Stout announced the public phase of its $35 million fundraising campaign that will focus on campus, student and faculty improvements. To date the Pathway Forward fundraising campaign has raised $30.6 million, which is 87 percent of the university’s goal. The goal is to raise $35 million by June 30, 2020. Chancellor Bob Meyer has raised the stakes and challenged the Stout University Foundation to hit an aspirational goal of $40 million. “I think it will be a pretty good challenge,” he said. Mark Parsons, vice chancellor for university advancement and marketing, said this is the largest...

Menomonie program to help with home down payments

Monday, October 29, 2018

Effort designed to encourage more people to live in Menomonie MENOMONIE — The City Council on Monday approved a private/ public funded program to attract new homeowners to the city. Program organizer Dan Ostermann told the council the Home Sweet Menomonie program would provide down payment assistance for someone buying a single-family home in the city. Employees from participating businesses will be eligible to borrow up to $10,000 for a down payment. Funding for the program comes from private, nonprofit and public dollars. The loans are available on a first-come, first-served basis. “The recession spurred the movement of young people to big cities, particularly those...

Cedar Corporation welcomes new employees

Sunday, October 28, 2018

Cedar Corporation announces the addition of Dylan Larson, Richard Seas, and Mitchell Reimer to its staff. Dylan Larson recently joined the Municipal Group in Cedar Corp's Green Bay Office as a Civil Engineer Technician. Larson recently graduated with an associates degree in civil engineering technology from Northeast Wisconsin Technical College and will be specializing in municipal construction contract administration and observation services. Richard Seas has joined the Green Bay office's Municipal Group as a Water Resource Engineer. Seas has a B.Ss in civil engineering and M.S. in engineering from South Dakota State University and is very experienced in municipal and environmental engineering. Mitch Reimer has joined...

Downtown neighbors: Artysta Boutique reflects owner's creative talents

Friday, October 26, 2018

What if you could own your dream business, explore your creative passion — and watch your four children grow up all at the same time? That is exactly what Carmen Tubeszewski, owner of Artysta Boutique (formerly Acute Bead), has done the past 13 years. “The best part of having this store for so long is I was able to watch my kids grow,” Carmen notes. “Not only did they grow up in the store, I was able to instill work experience on them at a very young age.” With its brightly painted exterior and inviting vintage bicycle on the sidewalk, Artysta Boutique...

Clothing company seeks to help disadvantaged children get education, improve lives

Thursday, October 25, 2018

A startup Menomonie children’s clothing design company with a mission to help children is attracting University of Wisconsin-Stout graduates and students who want to help with the cause. Cross Border Wear, founded by Vivian Ngo, who has attended UW-Stout taking apparel design classes, said two years ago she returned to her home country of Vietnam and visited a couple of orphanages. “I saw the living conditions of the kids and I needed to help them,” Ngo said. She designed dresses for some of the orphans to wear for the upcoming new year in Vietnam. Still, Ngo wanted to do more. This year she...

NeuroScience announces new ownership

Wednesday, October 24, 2018

An Osceola-based nutritional supplement manufacturer, NeuroScience, announced new ownership and corporate officers in June. A group of individual investors bought the company, according to a notice on its website. Bill Sevold, the company’s president since 2017, led the group in the purchase. Sevold joined NeuroScience in 2016 as vice president of sales and marketing and was promoted to president in 2017. With the recent purchase, he was appointed chief executive officer and president. The change follows a turbulent era for the company whose founder, Gottfried Kellermann, pleaded guilty in October 2016 to violating clinical laboratory regulations. The Department of Justice had accused Kellerman...

Former CEO returns to lead Osceola Medical Center

Tuesday, October 23, 2018

Jeff Meyer, a longtime CEO at the Osceola Medical Center, returned to the organization in early July following the resignation of Tom Geskermann at the end of June. Geskermann had joined OMC as CEO in September 2013. He resigned for personal reasons, according to communications manager Bob Wolf. “Tom did quite a bit for us,” Wolf said. “The most recent was putting in a new EMR, electronic medical records system.” He also helped transform the center’s urgent care offerings into a walk-in clinic. Meyer, who served as CEO for 18 years before his retirement in October 2013, has come out of retirement temporarily to...

Banker picks up college tuition for entire school class ... AGAIN!

Monday, October 22, 2018

LUCK, Wis. - Few would question the generosity of a man who promised to pick up the cost of a two-year degree for an entire high school class. There should be no doubts now, after businessman Dennis Frandsen extended the same offer to each and every student of the 2019 graduating class in Luck, Wisconsin. The Luck Public Schools confirmed for KARE 11 that that Frandsen -- a self-made success who now has 35 branches of Frandsen Bank and Trust in communities across Minnesota and Wisconsin -- offered to pay for two years of technical college for all of Luck's 34 prospective...

Four-peat: Aladtec again ranked among nations fastest-growing firms by Inc. 5000

Friday, October 19, 2018

For the fourth consecutive year, River Falls-based Aladtec is ranked among Inc. magazines fastest-growing private companies in the nation. Aladtec, Inc. moved down 202 spots, shifting from No. 2897 last year to No. 3099 this year. The company ranked No. 3197 in 2015. Only 443 firms on the list of 5,000 companies have achieved the distinction of appearing on the list four times. Aladtec recorded 128 percent growth over the last three years. Continue to full article

Potter named Hudson Chamber president

Thursday, October 18, 2018

The Hudson Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau announced that Mary Claire Olson Potter has accepted the position of chamber president. Potter brings 17 years of chamber experience to the Hudson Chamber of Commerce including the Rochester Area Chamber, Saint Paul Area Chamber, and the Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce. Potter also was President of the Hudson Chamber of Commerce for seven years. For the past 10 years, she has worked as Director of Business Development for AECOM, a global architectural/engineering firm and most recently as Business Developer for HGA, a national multi-disciplinary architectural/engineering firm. Continue to full article

Grand opening of Hbeauty Bar

Wednesday, October 17, 2018

Located in the former Downtown Threads, Hbeauty Bar has given the space a trendy facelift and offers a variety of products and services. Stop in and check everything that the new business has to offer. Members of the Amery Community Club welcomed the new owners of Hbeauty Bar during their Grand Opening. Those in attendance were Shari Overby, Matt Johnson, Cheryl Meyer, Harlee Schuldt, Jake Bracht, Ed White and Ed Flanum. Continue to full article

Multifamily Maxwell development nears completion

Wednesday, October 17, 2018

The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) along with city leaders toured the multifamily development The Maxwell on Friday, Aug. 31. Construction of the Maxwell by Gerrard Corporation is nearly complete and will create 36 units of affordable rental housing at 2000 Maxwell Drive off Carmichael Road. WHEDA awarded $352,875 in Federal Housing Tax Credits in 2017 to help advance the development. Tax credit developments must meet high design and operating standards. Criteria include strong management, excellent development quality, demonstrated market need, provision of services and amenities, proper local zoning and permits and service to households at various income levels. WHEDA COO Brian...

Cheers to 100 years

Tuesday, October 16, 2018

A business serving a community for 100 years is bound to leave a mark on a town, and that is exactly what Bremer Bank has done to the city of Amery. The bank’s devotion to community wellness is made a reality by employees who stride to carry out the philosophy of a gentleman named Otto Bremer. “To serve our clients, we must also serve their community,” said Bremer. Mr. Bremer came to Minnesota in 1886 as a German Immigrant. Speaking limited English, he obtained a job as a bookkeeper for the National German American Bank. Over the next 36 years, he worked...

Entrepreneurs — from ‘school of hard knocks’ — leave millions for St. Croix Valley scholarships

Tuesday, October 16, 2018

Marty Ryan and Richard Sterbenz were not known for their academic prowess. Ryan barely graduated from high school; Sterbenz never did. Despite their lack of formal education, the Somerset, Wis., couple amassed a fortune running Dalson Foods, a global meat-trading business, and Richmar Industries, a realty company. They also owned and operated MR Convenience Store, Rich’s Eatery and several real estate developments in the Somerset area. The couple, who had no children, decided to establish a $4 million scholarship fund upon their deaths to “give kids like them a shot at life that they never had,” said Karen Hansen, a partner at the...

Jewelry maker joins farmers market

Monday, October 15, 2018

Every Farmers Market, under the trees, you will find a small stand of semi precious stones. Fashioned into bracelets, necklaces and earrings, they are the creations of Hollie Moslet, who is enjoying a second career as an artist with her new business Y.B. Ordinary. Moslet’s passion and knowledge about her jewelry shines out in every customer conversation. She sources stones used by ancient Egyptians for cosmetics, Japanese Miyuki glass beads, and Czek Swarovski crystals, “precision cut so you’ll never find a corner that does not match” she explains. The folklore and wisdom of these cultures is not lost on Moslet, who can...

Sneaker's remains the same but says goodbye to original owners

Monday, October 15, 2018

Ruth Esanbock sits at Sneaker's bartop, ahead of the block window. The light pouring in from Spring Valley's downtown street floods around her from behind, darkening her face and the bittersweet look she keeps in her eyes. She has owned Sneaker's Pub and Eatery alongside her son Chad and sister Beth for 22 years. They've seen life happen in the walls of the pub. "Everybody's like family to us," she said. "We've endured their births, weddings, deaths. We watched their kids grow up and then we put them to work. Hired them down the road." Now it's time for the original owners to...

Red Bird moves to Cascade Street

Sunday, October 14, 2018

Red Bird music store moved mid month from its Third Avenue basement location to a storefront with a large display window on Osceola’s main drag. Owner Robert Brace signed the lease on the building, formerly the Unlimited Styling salon, August 15. “You can blame it all on Gwen [Wright, owner of the Looking Glass] across the street,” Brace joked. Wright confirmed that she had encouraged Brace to rent the Cascade Street building. “He has such great stuff to offer,” she said, adding that she regularly refers customers looking for instruments to Red Bird. In addition to records, musical instruments and supplies, the shop offers guitar...

Musty-Barnhart Insurance opening office in Ellsworth

Friday, October 12, 2018

With a number of connections to the Ellsworth community, Musty-Barnhart insurance agency is looking to take its relationship with the town further, opening an office at 167 W. Main St. in September. It was a natural step for the company, owned by Dee Whipple and Bob Kubes, with both customers and employees in the town and the surrounding area. "We wanted to basically put a brick up because we're already helping a lot of those people over there," said Whipple, a resident of the Ellsworth area herself. Musty-Barnhart Agency is an independent insurance agency that represents about 15 different carriers in providing business...

What's going down in west central Wisconsin's dairy industry

Thursday, October 11, 2018

Complex problems, confusion and miscommunication. The dairy industry is experiencing all three and then some. Finding a definitive solution or even a definitive reason for the depressed milk market might mean wading through a big pile of manure. In the mix is a confusing and volatile milk pricing system, tight farming budgets, newly imposed tariffs, contradictory farming regulations and a weary outlook on dairy farming's future. Continue to full article

Not giving up on making vino in the valley

Wednesday, October 10, 2018

As the sun sets on the valley, lights turn on over diners and at the hands of guests at the bar, a fire heats the cooler night air, horses take off on a wagon ride, live music floats through the air; pizza, pasta, and of course, wine, makes its way to tables on the patio, and guests laugh and chat while gazing out at the vineyard and canopy of trees that surround them. Enjoying the full experience, from the food and drinks to the valley view, is what it's all about at Vino in the Valley. But one thing is missing —...

2018 Green Masters Program

Tuesday, October 09, 2018

In case you aren't already familiar with it, the Green Masters Program is Wisconsin's most trusted sustainable business recognition & assessment program. Created by some of the brightest minds in the sustainability industry, the Green Masters Program provides Wisconsin businesses with a benchmark for themselves, as well as the ability to compare their sustainability performance to other companies in their sector. One of the greatest draws of the program is that it is completely free to all new applicants until October 31st. However, the process of applying may take some time, so we suggest that you get going on your...

Northwest Wisconsin manufacturers invited to supply chain readiness workshop in Superior

Tuesday, October 09, 2018

For immediate release Contact: Mark Maley, 608.210.6706 mark.maley@wedc.org Northwest Wisconsin manufacturers invited to supply chain readiness workshop in Superior Oct. 19 session for small and midsize businesses to focus on productivity, vendor readiness MADISON, WI. OCT. 9, 2018 – The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), in collaboration with Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, the Wisconsin Center for Manufacturing & Productivity, the University of Wisconsin-Stout Manufacturing Outreach Center and Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College is hosting an informational workshop on Friday, Oct. 19, on supply chain readiness. The workshop in Superior will include information to help manufacturers respond to industrial innovation trends that are impacting the industry, including updates to...

WHEDA grants support future senior living apartments

Tuesday, October 09, 2018

The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) recently awarded State Housing Tax Credits to The Depot at 300 River St., a multifamily development in River Falls. The tax credits, distributed by WHEDA, will help create 50 units of affordable senior rental housing. Located near City Hall, the Depot will go up where the old train depot used to stand. The Depot is being developed by the Gerrard Corporation, which received $351,824 in state tax credits. "We are so pleased that the city of River Falls has trust in our track record to bring high-quality, affordable housing to the city," said Paul Gerrard,...

Tom Still: Wisconsin's economy yielding good news

Monday, October 08, 2018

MADISON — A collection of headlines in recent weeks spoke to the overall health of Wisconsin’s economy, even if other indicators demonstrate not everything is rosy — even in boom times. For the first time, the total value of property in Madison and Dane County is estimated to be worth more than property in Milwaukee and Milwaukee County. At $65 billion and $64.1 billion, respectively, that speaks to continued growth in the capital city, although Milwaukee County’s gross domestic product is still more than double that of Dane County. Wisconsin benefits from having two Top 100 cities. Promega Corp., the biotech company...

FAM Tour a Success

Friday, October 05, 2018

Last week numerous partners in the region and Momentum West hosted a group of site selectors to the region. The group, along with representatives from area business and industry, higher education and the regions economic development organizations covered our talent attraction efforts, shovel ready property, numerous communities and the assets and quality of life within these communities, as well as recent development in the region. A special thanks to Xcel Energy, Touchstone Energy Cooperatives of West Central WI for their event sponsorships. Your organizations commitment to the region made this three day event possible. Also to BMO Harris Bank for sponsoring Thursdays tour lunch,...

Wisconsin fall color report goes live

Friday, October 05, 2018

MADISON, WIS. (WSAW) The Travel Wisconsin fall color report is live online for people across the state to monitor fall colors. The interactive map allows people to track peak foliage in all 72 counties, find nearby lodging and dining to plan fall getaways, as well as upload their fall color photos. Information is updated daily by more than 100 fall color reporters from chambers of commerce, visitor bureaus, tourism organizations and state parks and forests. New this year, Travel Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Department of Tourism has installed selfie stands in all 50 state parks. The stands are designed with platforms that will hold...

Meet Ed Javier, WEDC’s new entrepreneurship program director

Thursday, October 04, 2018

When working with startups, it can help to have firsthand experience. The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation’s new entrepreneurship program director, Ed Javier, brings plenty of that to his new role. He has helped build and scale well-known startups, including Cars.com and HomeFinder.com. He has also led technology launches into new industries, and as a general manager sold the Philippines’ leading real estate website to Rocket Internet. We sat down with Ed to learn more about his background and his plans for his role at WEDC, where he will oversee programs such as Capital Catalyst, Entrepreneurial Micro-Grant, Capacity Building grants, Seed Accelerator and Key Strategic...

Wisconsin launches first-ever national campaign to attract veterans transitioning to civilian life

Wednesday, October 03, 2018

MADISON, WI. AUG. 24, 2018 – The state of Wisconsin has launched a $1.9 million national marketing campaign to encourage military personnel and their spouses who are transitioning to civilian life to live and work in Wisconsin once they leave the service. The campaign, a collaborative effort between the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD), the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) and the Wisconsin Department of Tourism, is a part of the state’s new $6.8 million marketing campaign aimed at attracting talent to address Wisconsin’s current and future workforce needs. This marks the first time the...

CVTC Ground Breaking

Tuesday, October 02, 2018

Contact: Mark Gunderman, Communications Specialist Chippewa Valley Technical College Desk: 715-831-7288 Cell: 715-210-4714 mgunderman1@cvtc.edu Contact: Christina Thrun Executive Officer, CVHBA Desk: 715-835-2526 Cell: 715-579-9063 christina@cvhomebuilders.com CVTC Student-Built House to Join Parade of Homes Home Builders Association supports program with grant award Eau Claire, WI – A new season of hands-on learning began Thursday, Aug. 30, when Chippewa Valley Technical College’s Residential Construction program broke ground on a new home construction project and celebrated a partnership with the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association (CVHBA). Each year the students in the program gain hands-on experience while building a new home from...

Home Sweet Menomonie

Tuesday, October 02, 2018

A new program in Menomonie intended to help address a critical shortage of workers has received a major boost from the Greater Menomonie Development Corp. The GMDC voted recently to allocate $100,000 to support the Home Sweet Menomonie program. “I could not be more proud of the Greater Menomonie Development Corporation’s commitment of $100,000 towards the success of Home Sweet Menomonie,’ said Dan Ostermann, GMDC vice president and a leading force behind the establishment of Home Sweet Menomonie. “They clearly understand the difference this program will have on employee retention and recruitment and the long-term attributes it will bring to Menomonie.” Home Sweet...

WEDC awards $750,000 grant for new biomanufacturing center of excellence

Tuesday, October 02, 2018

Forward BIO Initiative will provide biohealth entrepreneurs with the necessary resources to transition research into commercialization MADISON, WI. – The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) has awarded a $750,000 grant to establish the Forward BIO Initiative – a new biomanufacturing center of excellence that will help to bring groundbreaking research happening in Wisconsin out of the labs and into the marketplace. The grant will be administered by BioForward Wisconsin. The Forward BIO Initiative is a collaborative effort that will offer entrepreneurs and researchers the resources necessary to effectively translate discoveries into commercial products in the emerging area of biomanufacturing—the advanced manufacturing of therapeutic medical...

WEDC Entrepreneurship Support Program

Tuesday, October 02, 2018

WEDC's Entrepreneurship Support Program is now accepting applications through 10/26/2018. This capacity grant program provides financial assistance of $10,000 to $100,000 to nonprofit and community-based organization for projects that promote entrepreneurship and provide Wisconsin entrepreneurs with key resources. The application period is now open. Learn more and request an application today: https://wedc.org/programs-and-resources/entrepreneurship-support-program/. Direct questions to: ED JAVIER Entrepreneurship Program Director, WEDC Tel: 608.210.6850 Email: ed.javier@wedc.org<mailto:ed.javier@wedc.org>.

Wisconsin manufacturers invited to supply chain workshops: Five sessions planned statewide in September

Monday, October 01, 2018

MADISON, WI. SEPT. 12, 2018 – The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), in collaboration with Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, Wisconsin Center for Manufacturing & Productivity, Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership, and the state’s regional economic development organizations is hosting five informational workshops throughout the state on supply chain readiness. The Supplier Readiness Series will include information to help manufacturers respond to industrial innovation trends that are impacting the industry, including updates to statewide resources designed to help improve productivity, prepare for Industry 4.0 and establish a path for global competitiveness. The workshops will also provide small- to medium-size manufacturers with details on how to...

WEDC Deputy Secretary Braun receives national recognition as a top economic development official in North America

Friday, September 28, 2018

MADISON, WI. SEPT. 12, 2018 – Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) Deputy Secretary and Chief Operating Officer Tricia Braun has been named one of the top economic development officials in North America by a national consulting firm. Consultant Connect, a consulting agency designed to bridge the gap between economic developers and site consultants, this week named Braun to its list of “North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers” for 2018. “This annual list is designed to acknowledge the hard work of the top leaders in this field and elevate the conversation around economic development and job creation,” said Ron Kitchens, managing partner of Consultant...

Mosaic Telecom Marketing Manager is a Young Professional Growing Her Career in the Momentum West Region

Monday, September 17, 2018

Megan Maikowski is a local young professional and the Marketing Manager for Mosaic Telecom. Mosaic Telecom is the area’s local Internet, TV, Telephone and IT services provider. As the Marketing Manager, her job is to market their services while doing community outreach to engage with the public in the communities they serve. We wanted to know why she chose a career in marketing and what inspired her to do so in the Momentum West region. What inspired you to go into marketing? Growing up I did not know what major I wanted to pursue, but I did know a few things that...

Clark Co. group begins selling hemp under state pilot program

Friday, September 14, 2018

CLARK COUNTY, Wis. -On Hewett Street in Neillsville, the Degenhardt family set up their hemp shop. It's part of the state's new "Industrial Hemp Pilot Research Program," and Cannabis Cultivators of Clark County is the first operation of its kind in Wisconsin. "I want to be the pioneer, I just want to get the ball rolling," said Jamie Degenhardt, one of the founders. "We got our grower's permit, our processing permit." They don't just sell hemp, they're also working to educate people on the difference between hemp - which is legal - and marijuana - which isn't. Continue to full article

Altoona's River Prairie development keeps growing with addition of farmers market

Wednesday, September 12, 2018

ALTOONA — Some attendees of Monday’s River Prairie farmers market were most excited about buying fresh vegetables. Others enjoyed purchasing items from food trucks at the site on Altoona’s northwest side, while still others enjoyed taste-testing differed types of honey. For 7-year-old Brooklyn Hayden, a flavored ice drink was the highlight of the farmers market, the first-ever such event at the River Prairie development. “I like the way it tastes when you mix the flavors together,” Brooklyn said as she pointed to her multicolored treat. Brooklyn and her family were among those attending the inaugural event that featured a handful of vendors, including several food...

2018 Green Masters Program, Deadlines Approaching

Thursday, September 06, 2018

[Madison, Wis. August 2018] – In case you aren't already familiar with it, the Green Masters Program is Wisconsin's most trusted sustainable business recognition & assessment program. Created by some of the brightest minds in the sustainability industry, the Green Masters Program provides Wisconsin businesses with a benchmark for themselves, as well as the ability to compare their sustainability performance to other companies in their sector. New to the program? The program remains free until the final closing date of October 31st. However, the process of applying may take some time, so we suggest that you get going on your application...

Entrepreneur Task Force Conducting Resource Survey

Thursday, September 06, 2018

As a follow-up to a recent entrepreneur forum featuring Ernesto Sirolli, several panels and a discussion on existing resources in the region lead by Aaron Hagar of WEDC, a volunteer taskforce has been established to help drive entrepreneurship in the region. Members from the sponsoring organizations (WEDC, Ignite WI, UW Stout, Dunn County EDC and Momentum West) as well as entrepreneurs from the region in attendance met on August 29th and determined the first step toward furthering entrepreneurship in the region was to assess existing resources. A survey was sent out on September 5th to partners throughout the region involved...

Foxconn R&D center in Chippewa Valley topic of Tech Council network luncheon in Eau Claire

Thursday, September 06, 2018

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (Aug. 28, 2018) Contact: Tom Still or Angela Schlobohm at 608-442-7557 To learn more online: www.wisconsintechnologycouncil.com EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – Plans for the Foxconn Technology Group’s innovation center in the Chippewa Valley region of western Wisconsin will be discussed at the Tuesday, Sept. 18 Tech Council Innovation Network luncheon meeting in Eau Claire. Alan Yeung, director of U.S. Strategic Initiatives for the company, has been invited to talk about the coming development of Foxconn Place Chippewa Valley in downtown Eau Claire, which is expected to create 150 jobs over time. The luncheon will be held at UW-Eau Claire’s Pablo Center...

Legacy Community Center opens on Grand Avenue, brings Agnes' Table next door

Thursday, September 06, 2018

A Chippewa Falls nonprofit has reopened in a new building in downtown Chippewa Falls and is bringing meal service Agnes’ Table with it. The Legacy Community Center opened Monday at 26 West Grand Ave. The center serves two purposes, said Dave Gordon, who sits on the center’s board of directors. It is an emergency food closet – distributing nonperishable food to the public – and as an “intake center,” acting as a guide to the county or state agencies that people need access to, Gordon said. Continue to full article

Wisconsin Freight Intermodal Survey

Thursday, September 06, 2018

Please see link below for Wisconsin's Freight Advisory Committee's Intermodal Subcommittee survey. Responses are due 9/14/18 and the questions are detailed, so it may take some time to compile. https://www.wmc.org/uncategorized/intermodal-logistics-and-supply-chain-survey/ Thanks Dean M. Prestegaard Economic Development Chief Wisconsin Department of Transportation Division of Transportation Investment Management Dean.Prestegaard@dot.wi.gov

Bike trails, breweries and a charming B&B make for a relaxing rural getaway in the Menomonie area

Wednesday, September 05, 2018

Hidden gem is an overused term in the travel world. In the age of the Internet and Instagram, there aren’t many hidden gems anymore. But if you are open to traveling to lesser known spots, you might still find a little diamond in the rough. I found just such a jewel in the Hay River House Bed and Breakfast outside Boyceville. Rural Dunn County isn’t exactly a top tourist destination. About 20 miles north of Menomonie and 40 miles northwest of Eau Claire, the town and little bed and breakfast probably wouldn't have been on my radar if my dart for this trip hadn’t landed just to the north near Prairie...

Menomonie Realtor recognized as among 'America’s Best'

Tuesday, September 04, 2018

Cora Frank, a 15-year veteran Realtor, was recently recognized in the 2018 REAL Trends “America’s Best Real Estate Professionals” rankings. The survey is divided into four categories: individual agents by sales volume, individuals by transaction sides, agent teams by volume and teams by sides. Frank, a Realtor with RE/MAX Affiliates, placed 34th in the rankings for most transaction sides. She was also awarded the Platinum Sales award by RE/MAX. Nearly one in four agents (22.7 percent) in the REAL Trends 2018 “America’s Best Real Estate Professionals” rankings is a RE/MAX agent — more than any other brand. Continue to full article

New housing available soon in Amery

Monday, September 03, 2018

The Amery Housing Authority broke ground on a much-awaited project. The first two structures of four rental units are currently being constructed by Berghammer Builders of Clayton. The units will be side-by-side duplexes located on the east side of Harrison Avenue. Amery Housing Authority director Terry Forrest said that city administration as well as the Amery Economic Development Corporation (A.E.D.C.) had expressed there was a void needing to be filled in terms of certain types of housing in the city. “Professionals moving into Amery for work did not have many options for housing,” Forrest said. The new rentals offer a two bedroom or three...

BP Motorsports opens

Friday, August 31, 2018

It’s been a life long dream of Bobby Penders to run his own repair and service shop. June 4 he opened BP Motorsports in Osceola, just south of the village center in the former Denny’s Auto. By month’s end, the shop was full of ATVs and dirt bikes. “The first couple weeks were kind of slow but its really starting to pick up,” he said in late June. After seven years working at a different repair shop, he recently resolved to build his own legacy. “I realized it was time,” he said. “I had already been doing a lot of this stuff on the...

Royal Credit Union announces new Branch Manager in New Richmond

Thursday, August 30, 2018

EAU CLAIRE, WI — Royal Credit Union (Royal) has named Josh Peterson Branch Manager of the New Richmond office. His responsibilities will include ensuring the branch meets financial, operational, and growth goals, as well as overseeing daily actions. In addition, Peterson will work with his team to provide an exceptional experience for Royal Members. Peterson brings financial experience from previous institutions and has held a variety of positions including five years as a teller and mini-district manager at U.S. Bank and most recently, four years as branch manager and premier banker with BMO Harris Bank. Peterson is in the process of completing...

Hudson Grocery Co-op celebrates milestone

Wednesday, August 29, 2018

The Hudson Grocery Cooperative reached its latest goal of 550 owners. This "Fishing for 550" campaign was a smaller goal established to help increase momentum as the co-op continues moving closer to its next goal. A celebration of the milestone was held on Thursday, July 26 at Hop and Barrel. The co-op plans to start working on site selection at 750 owners, and hopes to open the co-op at around a thousand members. Continue to full article

Local Photographer Receive 'Elite' Status

Tuesday, August 28, 2018

New Richmond Photographer Nate Peterson, owner of NP Design & Photography Studio, has been named to receive an Elite membership from the Professional Photographers of America (PPA). Nate is one of the few to earn the Elite membership - yet another milestone in his career behind the camera. "We are encouraging photographers to be more and grow as artist," said Kristen Hartman, director of PPA. "Nate continues to raise the bar in our industry and has certainly earned his place among the elite." Nate qualified for Elite membership through continued education, image competition and a continued quest for excellence. Continue to full article

Lueck opens Modern Woodmen office: New office in River Falls offers fraternal financial services

Monday, August 27, 2018

Lueck opens Modern Woodmen office: New office in River Falls offers fraternal financial services Lance Lueck, River Falls, WI, a Financial Representative for Modern Woodmen of America, has opened an office at 109B N. Main St, STE D in River Falls. The local office will serve Modern Woodmen members, their families and residents in and around the Western WI & Eastern MN area. Since 1883, Modern Woodmen of America has touched lives and secured futures. The fraternal financial services organization serves members for life, offering financial products and fraternal member benefits to individuals and families throughout the United States. Continue to full article

Young Mayor Encourages Everyone to Participate in Community Building

Monday, August 27, 2018

Mayor Alan Christianson was born and raised in Ladysmith. Both of his parents and grandparents were raised in Rusk County, so you could say that his roots run deep. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire with a double major in Finance and Business Administration, he decided to return home with the goal of applying his new knowledge and efforts to giving back to the community who helped to raise him. He knew firsthand how wonderful Ladysmith was to live in and knew that after graduating from college, he wanted to make Ladysmith his permanent home. Doing so has...

Sand is everywhere, yet we may be running out of it

Sunday, August 26, 2018

What do concrete buildings, windows and your smartphone have in common? Sand — the stuff our modern cities are made out of, says Vince Beiser, author of "The World in a Grain: The Story of Sand and How It Transformed Civilization." "The thing that basically every apartment block, office building and shopping mall in the world is made out of, concrete, is nothing but sand and gravel glued together with cement," he said. We use more sand than any other natural resource on earth, except for water and air, Beiser said. At close to 50 billion tons every year worldwide, it’s enough to cover the entire state of...

Quest for the best coffee leads to long-running Elmwood business

Friday, August 24, 2018

In the early 1990's, Elmwood resident John Eager's desire for finding the "best cup of coffee" led him to begin roasting his own coffee in a steel pan in his home oven. He eventually moved up to buying a 1910 Royal #5 Coffee Roaster from the East Coast, and had to give away coffee to friends because he could only drink so much of what he made. Eager now is in his 17th year of operating Highland Hollow Coffee and Tea Company on Main Street in Elmwood. He taught himself how to make his wide variety of organic coffees. "People started to...

Sew much talent: Carpenter creates gowns, drama as a home sewer

Thursday, August 23, 2018

Jordan Carpenter has been outfitting people (and stuffed toys and Troll dolls) since as far back as he can remember. Creating garments from his imagination was an instinctive drive. Just like walking, eating or breathing, being creative came naturally for him. However, his first few attempts were pretty disappointing, with clothes not quite looking the way he had hoped or falling off completely from the model. He was a child, after all. "One time my mom took me to Walmart and got a yard of fabric," Carpenter said. "I got this little teddy bear and I kept trying to make a dress...

Utility leadership consider utility trends, look to RFMU's future

Wednesday, August 22, 2018

River Falls City Council Member Diane Odeen has been on the city's Utility Advisory Board since she was first elected to the council in 2013. Earlier this summer, Odeen represented River Falls Municipal Utilities and WPPI Energy (of which RFMU is a member-utility) at the American Public Power Association (APPA) National Conference in New Orleans. "I learned that public power is a big deal," Odeen said. "RFMU is not huge - we have around 6,700 customers—but it is part of a national organization that represents 2,000 public utilities serving 49 million people." Odeen enjoyed learning about communities and utilities of the 1,700...

Workers are the new weapon as states go to extremes in the battle for business

Tuesday, August 21, 2018

Forequarter restaurant in Madison, Wisconsin, has managed to pull off a rare feat. Not only has it has stayed in business for six years, it is also still routinely referred to as trendy. On a recent visit, people were already showing up for dinner by 5:00 p.m. on a weeknight. Business is good, said owner Jonny Hunter, but it could be so much better. Continue to full article

Ladysmith High School Graduate Moves Home to Build Her Career and Give Back to the Community

Monday, August 20, 2018

When business feels like family, a career can become more than a job. It can become a place to thrive and work can feel like a second home. This is exactly what happened to Ladysmith High School graduate, Jessica Bingham. When she graduated in 2002, she left home to study Business Administration and Marketing at the University of Wisconsin-Stout. During her senior year, she interned with Jump River Electric Cooperative and was pleasantly surprised by how well she fit with the company culture and focus of the cooperative. When they offered her a fulltime job after graduation, she quickly accepted and...

The economies of every US state and DC, ranked from worst to best

Monday, August 20, 2018

The US is a massive, complex economy, and so too are the component economies of the 50 states and Washington, DC, that make up the whole. Business Insider combined six measures of labor-market and general economic health for all the states and the District of Columbia. They are the unemployment rate, job growth, per-capita GDP, GDP growth, average weekly wages, and wage growth. By putting all those on a common scale and combining them, we came up with an overall score for each state's economy. 10. Wisconsin Wisconsin's April 2018 unemployment rate of 2.8% was tied for fifth-lowest among the states and DC, and its...

HOOKED ON A FEELING: UNIQUE EXPERIENCES HELP FILL WISCONSIN’S TALENT PIPELINE

Sunday, August 19, 2018

By all measures economists use to assess the quality of life a place offers—job availability, cost of living, commute times, recreation, etc.—Wisconsin stacks up pretty well. Very well, in fact. Problem is, people don’t consult economists when choosing the best place to pursue their passions. As CEO of NEWaukee, I devote my professional life and much of my personal life to promoting Milwaukee and Wisconsin as a career and lifestyle destination. My pitch has very little to do with the metrics you find in national rankings of “best places to live” and everything to do with what it feels like...

30 years of the Wisconsin Main Street Program

Friday, August 17, 2018

As we prepare to celebrated Wisconsin’s downtowns for #WIMainSt Day, we are also celebrating 30 years of the Wisconsin Main Street program. Check out this video on what makes this program so special!

Gander Outdoors Prepares for Grand Opening in Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Friday, August 17, 2018

ST. PAUL, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Gander Outdoors, formerly known as Gander Mountain, is now open in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. A special grand opening event was planned for Saturday, June 23, 2018 at 6440 Scully Drive, exit 70 off Interstate 94. The 65,000 square foot location is one of the retailer’s 10 planned facilities in the state. Continue to full article

Menomonie, Pepin County highlighted on Discover Wisconsin

Friday, August 17, 2018

Discover Wisconsin, a long-running tourism TV show, will be shining the spotlight on Menomonie and Pepin County in an upcoming episode. “Menomonie and Pepin County–Best of the West” airs Saturday, Aug. 18 at 10 a.m. on Fox Sports Wisconsin and Sunday, Aug 19 at 5 p.m. on WQOW TV 18. The episode is also available for online streaming at discoverwisconsin.com. Host Collin Geraghty visits the Russell J. Rassbach Heritage Museum in Menomonie, where he learns about the area’s deep roots in the lumber and manufacturing industries along with an inside look at a day on the farm through Chippewa Valley Farm-City Day. Continue...

WEDC, UW-Eau Claire launch marketing campaign to encourage out-of-state alumni to ‘come home’

Thursday, August 16, 2018

W-Eau Claire is one of nine higher-education institutions joining state’s first-ever campaign featuring graduates who have chosen Wisconsin as their career destination Eau Claire, WI. June 20, 2018 — The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) and the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire today unveiled a new marketing campaign aimed at encouraging alumni of Wisconsin colleges and universities to pursue their personal and professional goals in Wisconsin. The campaign includes social media ads that link to videos featuring the perspectives of young people who have studied in Wisconsin and landed their dream jobs here, either right out of school or after leaving the state and deciding...

Chamber celebrates Leadership Menomonie graduation

Wednesday, August 15, 2018

On May 17, the Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce held the 2017-2018 graduation for Leadership Menomonie at Pinewood Golf Club and Restaurant. Graduates completed nine full-day sessions, studying a wide variety of topics including education, business and industry, heritage, arts and tourism, media, government and law, health and human services, agriculture and environment. They also participated in networking and teambuilding activities designed to demonstrate the dynamics of effective leadership. Continue to full article

MN: All Aboard: Plan Calls for Passenger Rail Between St. Paul and Eau Claire

Tuesday, August 14, 2018

Earlier this spring, a group of boosters gathered in Eau Claire, Wis. -- heralded by some as an emerging "mini-Portland" -- and agreed on just what was missing from the western Wisconsin city's renaissance: passenger rail. They not only have a plan to restore long-dormant rail service to St. Paul's Union Depot, they insist it can be privately financed, too. The bold idea may seem far-fetched given the travails of publicly bankrolled transit projects in the Twin Cities, such as the $2 billion Southwest light-rail line. But the West Central Wisconsin Rail Coalition, an Eau Claire-based nonprofit group of representatives from business,...

Expanded program draws future industrial mechanics

Monday, August 13, 2018

Earlier this year, Channer Schutts was back home in Menomonie and looking for a new direction to take. It was at a party where he ran into his fellow 2017 Menomonie High School graduate Evan Bauer that he found the answer. Channer, a big young man with a solid build, was a football star on the offensive and defensive lines back in the day, but a semester at St. Cloud State didn’t work out and he needed a reset. “I wanted some kind of schooling, but wasn’t sure what. I was at a party and Evan was there and he referred...

Deer Lake Winery opens

Friday, August 10, 2018

After dreaming of opening a winery of their own for years, Cheryl and Keith Johnson have made it happen. The Deer Lake Winery held its grand opening on June 23. The Johnsons have been growing grapes for 15 years and making their own wine for 10. Their vines come from the original Elmer Swenson vineyard. Swenson worked with the University of Minnesota years ago and developed vines that would withstand long, cold winters. The Johnsons stared all their vines from Swenson’s cuttings. Continue to full article

DigniCare project now Good Life Senior Living

Thursday, August 09, 2018

Plans for a senior living facility that have been in the works since 2015 appear to be moving forward again. The Osceola Village Board approved the sale of 16 acres for the facility in August 2015, effectively a land trade for the former trailer court. And in May 2016 the board approved a site plan for the senior housing project, then planned as a DigniCare site. But all has been quiet in “Osceola Heights,” the intended site, south of Ridge Road. Continue to full article

A little Grace and Grit for Hudson

Wednesday, August 08, 2018

In their daily lives, women need a little dose of both grace and grit, Kendra Wiesemeyer said. That's what she's hoping to provide with her new store Grace and Grit on Second Street. Wiesemeyer also owns The 715, the furnishings and home decor boutique located down the street. When the spot at 411 opened up, Wiesemeyer saw an opportunity. Continue to full article

Leadership Hudson students graduate

Tuesday, August 07, 2018

Leadership Hudson students celebrated success on the beautiful St. Croix River. Students completed the program with a graduation cruise, shared a few a-ha moments and last laughs as well. Presenter Leanne Van Allen, a graduate of the 2018 Leadership Hudson program, reflected on the year and shared the overall sentiment of her class as she reminisced on the growth and development of her peers. During the Leadership Hudson Program, students had the opportunity to learn about many area organizations. It was out of this new awareness that students formed Valley Voices, an initiative to raise awareness and funds by hosting an event for a...

Wright Law a resource for elder law, medicaid

Monday, August 06, 2018

New to the community, attorney Benjamin Wright is looking to help families with his new practice, Wright Law, focused on elder law. Wright recently moved to River Falls with his wife and 18-month-old child. The move brought them closer to family, and gave Wright an opportunity to open his new practice. "People have been really nice and welcoming here," Wright said. After graduating law school, Wright worked in the criminal justice and child protection systems. There he worked with people who were dealing with the system and its rules for the first time. Continue to full article

State representatives celebrate local impact of cheese industry

Friday, August 03, 2018

Gov. Scott Walker and other state representatives traveled throughout Wisconsin to 13 different cheese companies and facilities to celebrate Wisconsin Cheese Day on June 25. In conjunction with National Dairy Month, Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Secretary Sheila Harsdorf visited the Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery to speak at the event and present CEO Paul Bauer with a certificate of appreciation from Walker. Representatives from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, Dairy Business Association and Wisconsin Farm Bureau also spoke briefly before a crowd of people outside the front doors of the Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery. The group was then given the...

Sailer's in Elmwood awarded grand champion status for meat products

Thursday, August 02, 2018

MADISON — The governor's Blue Ribbon Meat Products Auction is back at the Wisconsin State Fair celebrating its 27th year on Aug. 7 in the Case IH Colisum. Stars of the evening will include the grand champion, first reserve champion and second reserve champion meat products from all categories of the 2018 Meat Products Contest, as well as the 2018 Best in Show product. Best of Show is selected from entries across the state that were judged and is announced at the auction. This year, Sailer's Food Market and Meat Processing in Elmwood was awarded grand champion in two categories — dried...

Aldi breaks grounds; what's next for Perkins?

Wednesday, August 01, 2018

It has been a busy year thus far for business development in River falls. Aldi, Dollar Tree and Culvers have made plans to come to town, Chippewa Valley Technical College is working on an expansion, and the River Falls Gymnastics club is construction a new building near the high school. Many of these projects have already begun construction. Continue to full article

Workers are the new weapon as states go to extremes in the battle for business

Tuesday, July 31, 2018

Forequarter restaurant in Madison, Wisconsin, has managed to pull off a rare feat. Not only has it has stayed in business for six years, it is also still routinely referred to as trendy. On a recent visit, people were already showing up for dinner by 5:00 p.m. on a weeknight. Business is good, said owner Jonny Hunter, but it could be so much better. “We’re not open as much as we want to,” he said. The restaurant is open only for dinner, and it is closed on Sundays. Hunter said he would love to do more, if only he could staff the...

The economies of every US state and DC, ranked from worst to best

Monday, July 30, 2018

The US is a massive, complex economy, and so too are the component economies of the 50 states and Washington, DC, that make up the whole. Business Insider combined six measures of labor-market and general economic health for all the states and the District of Columbia. They are the unemployment rate, job growth, per-capita GDP, GDP growth, average weekly wages, and wage growth. By putting all those on a common scale and combining them, we came up with an overall score for each state's economy. 10. Wisconsin Wisconsin's April 2018 unemployment rate of 2.8% was tied for fifth-lowest among the states and DC, and its...

HOOKED ON A FEELING: UNIQUE EXPERIENCES HELP FILL WISCONSIN’S TALENT PIPELINE

Sunday, July 29, 2018

By all measures economists use to assess the quality of life a place offers—job availability, cost of living, commute times, recreation, etc.—Wisconsin stacks up pretty well. Very well, in fact. Problem is, people don’t consult economists when choosing the best place to pursue their passions. As CEO of NEWaukee, I devote my professional life and much of my personal life to promoting Milwaukee and Wisconsin as a career and lifestyle destination. My pitch has very little to do with the metrics you find in national rankings of “best places to live” and everything to do with what it feels like...

30 years of the Wisconsin Main Street Program

Friday, July 27, 2018

As we prepared to celebrate Wisconsin’s downtowns for #WIMainSt Day, we are also celebrated 30 years of the Wisconsin Main Street program. Check out this video on what makes this program so special!

Gander Outdoors opens in Eau Claire

Friday, July 27, 2018

Gander Outdoors, formerly Gander Mountain, opened today on Eau Claire’s far southeast corner. Now owned by parent company Camping World Holdings, the outdoor merchandise retailer reopened the 65,000-square-foot store at 6440 Scully Drive that closed last year. A grand opening event is planned for Saturday, which will include food and workshops for making fishing lures and duck calls, according to a Gander Outdoors news release. It is among 10 of the former Gander Mountain stores reopening under new corporate ownership in the state. The other stores are in Appleton, Baraboo, DeForest, Green Bay, Janesville, Kenosha, Onalaska, Rothschild and Sheboygan. Continue to full article

Petryk receives WEDA’s 'Champion of Economic Development' award

Thursday, July 26, 2018

The Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA) recently presented Rep. Warren Petryk (R-Eleva) with the 2018 “Champion of Economic Development” Award for his support of policies to drive economic growth and prosperity in Wisconsin. The award is presented to state legislators who exemplify WEDA’s mission of promoting economic development and have shown a commitment to making Wisconsin a better place to live, work and do business through policies that advance economic growth. Rep. Petryk earned the designation through his support of pro-economic development legislation during the 2017-18 legislative session. Continue to full article

WEDC, UW-Eau Claire launch marketing campaign to encourage out-of-state alumni to ‘come home’

Thursday, July 26, 2018

UW-Eau Claire is one of nine higher-education institutions joining state’s first-ever campaign featuring graduates who have chosen Wisconsin as their career destination Eau Claire, WI. — The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) and the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire today unveiled a new marketing campaign aimed at encouraging alumni of Wisconsin colleges and universities to pursue their personal and professional goals in Wisconsin. The campaign includes social media ads that link to videos featuring the perspectives of young people who have studied in Wisconsin and landed their dream jobs here, either right out of school or after leaving the state and deciding to return here. Continue...

Community comes together to celebrate new downtown Eau Claire mural

Wednesday, July 25, 2018

Eau Claire (WQOW) - People celebrated a new masterpiece in downtown Eau Claire. The community mural celebration kicked off at the intersection of Galloway and Farwell streets, just across from The Oxbow Hotel. The mural is mostly done, but the celebrations started early. Visit Eau Claire provided the music, and people got to use the mural as a photo backdrop. They also had The Torch Sisters perform for the audience. Continue to full article

Local REALTORS' group celebrates new office, conference center

Wednesday, July 25, 2018

The REALTORS® Association of Northwestern Wisconsin celebrated its new office and conference center with a ribbon cutting hosted by the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce. The new space is located at 3460 Mall Drive in Eau Claire, and RANWW will occupy both Suite 5a and 5b, with 5a being home to administrative offices and 5b being a conference center designed with state-of-the-art technology that will be able to provide training and continuing education for local REALTORS® as well as be available for the general public to rent. Continue to full article

Community Club honors volunteers, businesses at banquet

Tuesday, July 24, 2018

The Amery Community Club held its seventh annual Past President’s Dinner and Community Business Awards Banquet Friday, May 11 at Cricket’s Banquet Center. A total of 86 nominees were honored with awards in 10 categories. Businesses marking milestone anniversaries were honored as well: Williamson-White Funeral Home - 130 years City of Amery - 125 years Bremer Bank - 100 years Northwest Communications - 120 years Lake Wapogasset Lutheran Bible Camp - 70 years YMCA Camp Icaghowan - 70 years Arrow Building Center - 50 years Cahill Studios - 40 years Amery Discount Liquor - 30 years Family Eye Clinic - 30 years Dick’s Fresh Market - 20 years PhyllBeas - 5 years Continue to...

Five Guys opens in Oakwood Mall

Tuesday, July 24, 2018

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) -- After months of waiting, the latest Five Guys location opened its doors at Oakwood Mall. The first Five guys location opened in Arlington, Va. in 1986. Today, there are close to 15-hundred locations world-wide. The company’s website boasts of having over 250,000 ways to customize a Five Guys burger. Betsy Maher, a general manager with general growth property, which operates the mall, said they had been anticipating this opening since it was announced last November and that this opening was fueled by the people. Continue to full article

Apprenticeship program receives recognition

Monday, July 23, 2018

Amery’s Youth Apprenticeship Program was recognized last week by the Polk County Economic Development Corporation at the group’s annual awards banquet, held May 15 in Balsam Lake. The district received one of two Public Partnership Awards that were presented. Amery Public Schools has shown a commitment to both the development of Amery High School students and the economic vitality of local businesses. The high school is a leader in recruiting and placing high school students in the Youth Apprenticeship Program that helps train students in certain skills and jobs while they are still in high school. This program also fills a need...

Manufacturers get sneak peek into future fab lab

Saturday, July 21, 2018

Area manufacturers and skilled tradespeople gathered last week at the site of the future Discovery Center Fab Lab and Workforce Development Center for a hard hat luncheon hosted by the Inspire…Building a Center of Discovery fundraising campaign. Speaker Mark Tyler spoke about fabrication laboratories as a local resource for training the next generation of manufacturers. Tyler is president of OEM Fabricators, Inc., chair of the Governor’s Council on Workforce Investment, president of the Wisconsin Technical College System Board and a regent for the University of Wisconsin. Continue to full article

Second Avenue Crossing whiskey tasting earns statewide recognition

Saturday, July 21, 2018

The Osceola Area Chamber and Main Street Program was recognized for its outstanding downtown revitalization efforts at the 27th Wisconsin Main Street Awards ceremony on Friday, April 27, in Ripon. Second Avenue Crossing took top honors with the Best Cooperative Business Marketing Award for their whiskey tasting event last October. The tasting boasted samples and education from 45th Parallel Distillery in New Richmond, food from SirSmokeAlot BBQ, cigars from Sodie’s Cigars, music by Bob Brace of Red Bird Music Store, and spheres of ice for the whiskey tumblers by Whiskey Barrel Ice Baller. More than 200 attended the event and, according to...

Liaison, organizer, visionary: ArtBarn names new executive director

Friday, July 20, 2018

Recipe for an executive director at a small-town arts center: Mix equal parts event planner, volunteer coordinator and visionary. Add a dash of diplomacy and a pinch of ambition. Stir gently. At the St. Croix ArtBarn, a new executive director took the helm January 1. An Amery resident and longtime volunteer at the arts center, Chad Leonard has his own take on the job description. Continue to full article

Watershed Cafe recognized for stewardship

Friday, July 20, 2018

An Osceola restaurant has earned this year’s St. Croix Watershed Stewardship Award. In May, the St. Croix River Association recognized the Watershed Cafe and its owners, Rita and Steve Rasmuson, for their contributions to stewardship of the St. Croix River and its broader watershed. Rita and Steve opened the Watershed Cafe in July 2014, and continue to carry out their original vision of operating a sustainably-sourced, community-focused restaurant along the St. Croix River. The Rasmusons honor the surrounding natural resources and the vibrant community by cultivating partnerships which support their environmental stewardship. They do so by collaborating with local farmers who...

Bakken Young breaks ground for new facility

Thursday, July 19, 2018

Jody Bakken Young and Brian Young were joined by members of the Bakken and Beebe families, New Richmond Mayor Fred Horne, city officials and representatives from the architectural, design and construction team Friday, May 11, in a groundbreaking ceremony at 728 S. Knowles Ave., site of their new funeral and cremation facility. "We're really excited that Bakken Young chose New Richmond to build and expand their business from a business that has been here for 104 years. Keeping the new building on the ground that the Beebes originally owned in New Richmond is really important. We really appreciate what Jodie and...

Community leaders celebrate U.S. Small Business Week

Thursday, July 19, 2018

St. Croix EDC joined community leaders in New Richmond, Hudson, Hammond and Somerset to recognize businesses during U.S. Small Business Week, April 29-May 5. Sean Fitzgerald and staff at SF Insurance Group in downtown New Richmond hosted the EDC and community supporters on Monday, April 30. Angela Popenhagen and staff at Stevens Engineers in Hudson were the hosts on Tuesday, May 1. Among the attendees was U.S. Re. Sean Duffy. U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson stopped at Russ Davis Wholesale in Hammond on Wednesday, May 2, for a small business roundtable meeting. Matt Wallace and Trevor Wirtanen of Oliphant Brewing in Somerset...

Bringing healthy options to New Richmond

Wednesday, July 18, 2018

As New Richmond continues to grow, with new restaurants and businesses opening in every part of the city, Tiger Nutrition health club owners Trina Bleifus, Cory Rush and Josh Trotterchaud hope to educate the community on how to live a healthy and active lifestyle. "New Richmond is expanding really fast and there are new restaurants opening up all the time, but there are no healthy options for people," Rush said. "We are here for the community. It is something for the community and we want to make the community healthy however we can. If there is something we can do for...

New chiro moves into Hudson Headache office

Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Since she was a child, Stormie Reiman always knew she wanted to help people. She wasn't exactly sure how. Reiman started by studying psychology and criminal justice, and then physical therapy, but neither one of them were what she was looking for. Then she made her way to chiropractic, and she knew she'd found the right fit. She earned her doctorate degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa. Now that she's found the right way to help people, she's opened her own practice to do it. At 1830 Webster St., Reiman's practice has been open for a month. "I'm getting to meet...

Ridgeland Veterinary Clinic open again

Tuesday, July 17, 2018

It was about 18 months ago that Dr. Jacob Smith, a Ladysmith veterinarian, found out that longtime vet Dr. Al Horvath was going to leave his Ridgeland practice and retire. “Our family had some mutual friends who knew Al’s family through our church,” Smith said Monday, June 11, as he, Horvath and staff members Amy Knutson and Bridget Kessey unpacked boxes of supplies at the clinic, on Main Street, in Ridgeland. That started a conversation between the two veterinarians about whether Smith was interested in buying the practice from Horvath. “I wasn’t quite ready at the time,” Smith said. In the interim, Horvath retired...

Wisconsin Looks To Address Long-Term And Short-Term Workforce Challenges

Tuesday, July 17, 2018

State Faces Workforce Shortages Due To Economic Conditions, Demographics It will take a range of approaches to address the state's long- and short-term workforce needs, according to Wisconsin's secretary of workforce development. Ray Allen said that with the latest unemployment rate at a record-low 2.8 percent, his agency is working to help employers fill immediate openings. An ad campaign from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. is aimed at attracting more veterans and young workers from other Midwestern states to Wisconsin. Allen also said his agency and others are also planning to expand a program where state officials visit military bases to talk about job opportunities with...

CNBC's Top States 2018 highlights an epic battle for business and jobs

Monday, July 16, 2018

The war between the states for business and jobs has never been more intense. The high-profile fight for Amazon's $5 billion HQ2 second headquarters leads the pack, but there are thousands of smaller site selection skirmishes playing out across the country. And it's never been more complicated, thanks to worker shortages, immigration crackdowns, trade tensions and tax reforms. Then there are this November's elections, with 36 states choosing governors. It is time once again for America's Top States for Business to put it all in perspective. Our 12th annual study of state competitiveness is coming soon. Continue to full article

Foxconn buying EC downtown space, creating 150 jobs

Monday, July 16, 2018

Foxconn Technology Group is buying a historic downtown Eau Claire building and space in the Haymarket Landing building as part of an expansion that will create 150 jobs. The company announced it is expanding its Wisconn Valley Innovation Network to west-central Wisconsin as part of its initiative to spur innovation, attract talent and connect with supply chain partners, according to a statement. Foxconn plans to close on these properties later this year and open new operations in early 2019. The new centers, to be named Foxconn Place Chippewa Valley, will create at least 150 high-tech jobs in Eau Claire. Employees will work with...

Foxconn purchasing two properties in downtown Eau Claire

Monday, July 16, 2018

Foxconn is expanding in Wisconsin, with its eye on Eau Claire. On Monday morning, Governor Walker announced Foxconn is purchasing two properties in downtown Eau Claire. Foxconn has reached an agreement to purchase The Grand, a 43,000 square foot building at 204 E. Grand Avenue. It has been used by various businesses, most recently Wells Fargo and various tenants until 2016. Click here for the complete article.

Local Chiropractor Moves Home to Build a Practice

Monday, July 16, 2018

Dr. Tonya Prokop-Nette is a local chiropractor, practicing at Imperium Chiropractic in Ladysmith, WI. Growing up in Rusk County, she always knew that she wanted to come home after earning her education. We wanted to know why she chose to start her career in the Momentum West region. Dr. Prokop-Nette said, Rusk county is home for me. I grew up in Sheldon, WI and my family is here. I feel that by practicing close to where I grew up, I can give back to the community that helped to shape who I am. Contrary to many beliefs, there is a...

Woman pursues her passion with therapy dogs

Monday, July 16, 2018

Dogs are considered by many to be "man's best friend" but what does being a best friend mean? What can a dog do for a person? One Prescott woman is using her dogs to provide therapy services to people in the area and bring smiles to those faces. Jenny Langness, owner of Ugly Dog Therapy, said the name Ugly Dog Therapy originates from her first dog, Jager. "Our very first dog is a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon," Langness said. "We first got [him] for hunting purposes, [breed is] considered an ugly dog." After she got Jager, Langness adopted an Italian Greyhound named Carlos. She...

Move to Wisconsin, Millennials! (Just Don't Forget Your Car.)

Friday, July 13, 2018

As the state spends millions to lure under-40 workers from across the Midwest, local transit riders are stuck in place. MILWAUKEE, WI—In January, the Wisconsin Economic Development Commission launched a $1 million campaign asking Chicago’s Millennial transit commuters to consider a move to the Dairy State. “Catch the train or catch some air?” reads one advertisement plastered inside Chicago Transit Authority trains. A haggard young straphanger, sweating under his collar, was shown side-by-side with a grinning snowboarder taking a jump. “Rush hour or happy hour?” reads another ad featuring an assembly of rooftop drinkers, mid-chuckle. “Bump elbows or bump on the court?”...

SCS Elevator Products Inc. Announces New President

Friday, July 13, 2018

SCS Elevator Products Inc. Announces New President The owners and Board of Directors of SCS Elevator Products are pleased to announce the appointment of Dave Muelken to the position of President. Donna Anderst who has served as CEO and President, will transition to Chairman of the Board for SCS Elevator Products. As President of SCS Elevator Products Dave will be responsible for the day to day operations of the company, which manufactures elevator braille, buttons and signage. SCS has built its reputations on manufacturing the highest quality elevator products, while maintaining an industry leading standard of customer service. Continue to full article

State Groups Say Creativity Key To Wisconsin's Economic Future

Thursday, July 12, 2018

A new report is out detailing how creativity will be the key element in a new Wisconsin economy and how government and the arts community can make that happen. Arts Wisconsin, in partnership with the League of Wisconsin Municipalities, released " 21st Century Wisconsin", a report on local, regional and statewide opportunities for growth through investment in Wisconsin’s creative sector. The report addresses data, trends and models, and provide best practices, strategies and actions to leverage and grow assets and resources throughout Wisconsin. Continue to full article

Wisconsin’s bioscience industry employment growth outpaces nation

Thursday, July 12, 2018

But wage growth lags national average Employment growth in Wisconsin’s bioscience industry has outpaced the national average in recent years, according to a new study from a national biotechnology trade organization. According to the report from the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, Wisconsin saw 5.8 percent growth in employment in the bioscience industry from 2014-16, compared to the national average of 4.4 percent. During the same period, the number of bioscience establishments grew 13.4 percent in Wisconsin, compared to 7.7 percent nationally. Wages grew at a more sluggish pace, however. According to the report, the average annual wage in Wisconsin’s bioscience industry grew by 1.5 percent...

Governor Walker Highlights State’s Growing Economy, Workforce Development Investments at Milwaukee 7 Economic Development Forum

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

MILWAUKEE – Governor Scott Walker today highlighted the state’s growing economy and workforce development investments at the Milwaukee 7 (M7) Economic Development Forum in Milwaukee. M7 is a regional economic development cooperative that comprises seven southeastern counties: Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Walworth, Washington, and Waukesha. “More people are employed in our state than ever before, and our unemployment rate is at an all-time low of 2.8 percent. That’s tied for 5th lowest in the country and tied for lowest in the Midwest,” said Governor Walker. “This is great news, but we’re not done yet. We want to continue investing in our successful worker training programs...

Qualified New Business Ventures will no longer have to pay additional state fees

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

New state law expected to save start-up companies thousands of dollars Madison, WI.— Wisconsin early-stage companies that are certified as Qualified New Business Ventures and incorporated as C corporations in other states will no longer have to pay additional assessment fees under a new state law. Until today, state law required “foreign” C corporations – those legally incorporated in other states – to pay variable fees associated with the filings of certificates of authority, annual reports and applications of withdrawal with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). Many C corporations are incorporated in Delaware but have significant operations or headquarters in Wisconsin. Continue...

Op-ed: Wisconsin’s legacy of innovation continues

Tuesday, July 10, 2018

What do iconic Wisconsin companies like Kohler, Mercury Marine, Oshkosh Corp. and SC Johnson have in common? They were founded generations ago by innovators who developed products that forever changed the world. That same spirit of innovation lives on today throughout our great state – in the classrooms and laboratories at our colleges and universities, in the R&D departments of companies of all sizes and industries and, yes, in the garages and basements of entrepreneurs who are working tirelessly to develop the next game-changing product. Continue to full article

Stockholm Pie Company celebrated both a ten-year anniversary and grand opening

Tuesday, July 10, 2018

STOCKHOLM — Ten years ago, it was a tiny storefront in the tiniest village in Wisconsin. A decade later, the Stockholm Pie Company has quadrupled in size, garnered national recognition, and launched a brand new general store. The Stockholm Pie Company celebrated its 10th anniversary and the official grand opening of the new, adjacent "General Store at Stockholm Pie" May 5. The free festivities included live accordion music, treats and drawings for gifts. Guests experienced an array of pies with a "Pie Flight" tasting. "We're calling it 'The Big Pie Day,'" said shop owner Alan Nugent. "We hope everyone will join us in celebrating...

Foxconn announces $1 million “Smart City, Smart Future” competition; partners with Wisconsin universities and technical colleges on statewide initiative

Monday, July 09, 2018

New initiative will encourage innovative ideas from students and faculty for smart connected cities and systems to better serve Wisconsin Kenosha, WI – Foxconn Technology Group (Foxconn) today announced a “Smart City, Smart Future” initiative in which the company will partner with higher education institutions statewide to seek out the best new ideas for the development of smart connected cities and systems throughout Wisconsin. Foxconn is committing $1 million over the next three years to this initiative, with the goal of tapping talent at public and private universities and colleges. To be formally launched in the fall, the “Smart City, Smart Future” initiative...

Vudu Street Food: Soul food with a touch of magic

Monday, July 09, 2018

Soul food with a touch of magic. That's the way Christian Orosz describes the food at his new restaurant, Vudu Street Food, which opened on Friday, April 28, in New Richmond. "We serve street food, since that is a culture and type of food I really enjoy. It is something you would find while walking down the streets of Mexico or Peru. To me, that is the real food," Orosz said. "The menu was really carried over from our two food trucks in Minneapolis, so kind of like bringing the food truck inside." Vudu Street Food (121 S. Knowles Ave.) is the...

Richard Moore named Community Leader of the Year

Sunday, July 08, 2018

The Greater Ladysmith Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the award recipients for this year’s Rusk County Community Awards and Recognition Banquet. The Awards Dinner was held Friday, April 26, at Club 8 Supper Club. Social hour began at 5:30 p.m. with dinner at 6:30 p.m. The awards ceremony followed the meal. Continue to full article.

Community leaders celebrate U.S. Small Business Week

Friday, July 06, 2018

St. Croix EDC joined community leaders in New Richmond, Hudson, Hammond and Somerset to recognize businesses during U.S. Small Business Week, April 29-May 5. Sean Fitzgerald and staff at SF Insurance Group in downtown New Richmond hosted the EDC and community supporters on Monday, April 30th. Angela Popenhagen and staff at Stevens Engineers in Hudson were the hosts on Tuesday, May 1. Among the attendees was U.S. Rep. Sean Duffy. U.S. Senator Ron Johnson stopped at Russ Davis Wholesale in Hammond on Wednesday, May 2 for a small business roundtable meeting. Matt Wallace and Trevor Wirtanen of Oliphant Brewing in Somerset hosted a group...

County ag agents, supporters lauded for outreach, educational efforts

Friday, July 06, 2018

WISCONSIN DELLS - The Wisconsin Association of County Agricultural Agents (WACAA) recently recognized several members during their annual banquet in Wisconsin Dells. An affiliate of the National Association of County Agricultural Agents (NACAA) WACAA is a professional organization for county, area and state Extension professionals to encourage excellence and professionalism in their work; improve effectiveness of Wisconsin Extension programs; provide assistance for agents to seek and participate in professional improvement opportunities, and recognize and promote superior achievement. Continue to full article.

Eau Claire tourism grows by 12.5%

Thursday, July 05, 2018

Eau Claire (WQOW) -- Eau Claire continues to draw tourists in, and Wisconsin's Department of Tourism has the numbers to prove it. In 2017, visitors directly spent $257 million in Eau Claire. That's a 12.5 percent increase since 2016. Visit Eau Claire's Executive Director, Linda John, credits the downtown developments such as the confluence project, and events like our music festivals, for bringing tourists to our city. "We just have become this gem as sort of the arts culture, independent spirit, entrepreneurial, it's a great place to come start your own business, go to school, retire," said John. "Sometimes people think they have...

Olson named 2018 Business Woman of the Year

Thursday, July 05, 2018

Attorney Angela Olson accepted the 2018 Business Woman of the Year award May 5 to a standing ovation by her contemporaries. Olson is well known for her involvement in a number of local and regional organizations including the Wisconsin Bar Association, The Family Resource Center of the St. Croix Valley, Grace Place, Rotary, Kiwanis, Westfields Hospital Foundation, The New Richmond Hockey Association, Community Foundation and the New Richmond Chamber of Commerce. During her six years on the Chamber, she helped launch the Women's Business Expo Luncheon and the Young Professionals of the St. Croix Valley. Olson's nominator noted, "Angela continues to be...

FRONT PAGE Life Story: Fanny Hill’s ‘shining star’ lit the way for decades

Wednesday, July 04, 2018

Lois Hodgins, longtime actress and group sales director for former noted venue dies at age 61 After working in a profession — and doing it well — for decades, one can garner a reputation. And so it was for Lois Hodgins, who for 35 years acted in productions and was group sales director for Fanny Hill Inn & Dinner Theatre near Eau Claire. “I think Lois was certainly the face of theater in Eau Claire,” said Dennis Heyde, who owned the business before it closed in 2014. “Her whole life was Fanny Hill.” Hodgins died April 25 in Eau Claire. She was 61. She lives on in...

Superior Silica Sands at full employment here ; Lack of consistent rail service an issue

Wednesday, July 04, 2018

For Superior Silica Sands and the hundreds of Barron County residents who work for the company or are contract truck drivers, the good news is that the company had a profitable first quarter for 2018. The not-so-good news is that – even though there’s a railroad that runs right alongside one of the company’s two dry sand plants (just east of Poskin), there are not enough locomotives or trained crews to haul frac sand from Barron County to waiting markets elsewhere in the United States. Continue to full article.

Love of Mississippi leads to Big River magazine

Tuesday, July 03, 2018

WINONA — Around 1970, Reggie McLeod stood on an overlook at Wisconsin’s Wyalusing State Park and, for the first time in his life, beheld the Mississippi River. “I was just amazed,” he said. “It was a cool fall night, and we had just arrived there from Milwaukee. We hiked around in the hills the next couple of days, and I loved it. I hadn’t realized that there was a place like this in the Upper Midwest. I knew I’d be back.” His friends had introduced him to the big river and McLeod, in turn, would repay that introduction thousands of times over...

Maple syrup season has started

Tuesday, July 03, 2018

As the temperatures start to warm up and spring is just around the corner, maple syrup producers are out in the woods working to make that sweet treat so many enjoy. Lindsey Baris and her husband Ryan Browne own Rising Sun Farm outside of River Falls and have begun their maple syrup production for the 2018 season. Baris described their operation as a middle-size operation; they produce maple syrup to sell on their farm and at farmers markets. "We have a strong following," Baris said. "We always sell out by next year." Rising Sun Farm has been in operation for 40 years. Prior...

City exploring options as Lake Wissota Business Park grows

Monday, July 02, 2018

The Chippewa Falls City Council is considering options for a growing Lake Wissota Business Park. In a closed session the council was slated to discuss possible plans for other land options in the city. “A lot of businesses are moving in, and we’re going to run out of properties for development,” Mayor Greg Hoffman told the Herald Tuesday. “So we need to be looking what are our options for other land within the city.” Though no plans have been made, the city is exploring the possibility of creating a tax-increment financing (TIF) district, Hoffman said. Annexing land or working with developers are also options...

New Plum City restaurant planned to open later this year

Monday, July 02, 2018

People may have noticed a lot of work happening in the building that used to be Dean's Bar and Grill in Plum City. New owners are getting it ready for their new restaurant and bar. Robin and Jeremy Kannel closed on the property at the end of February, and Jeremy said they actually started tearing things out in the middle of February. The plan is for them to open Beaves, which will be a bar and restaurant. He said they will for sure be open by the third weekend in July, but hopefully they will be able to open sooner depending on...

Downtown Menomonie hosted historic preservation celebration

Sunday, July 01, 2018

With more than 150 years as the heart of Menomonie, the downtown neighborhood has been the inspiration of preservation efforts in the community for decades. To commemorate this work, Main Street of Menomonie hosted the Menomonie Preservation Celebration on May 17 to honor National Preservation Month. The free event featured a wide range of fun history themed activities, including downtown walking tours that will focus on fire insurance maps from the late 1800’s and early 1900s. “Menomonie’s history is vast, interesting and important. We must not forget how lucky we are to still have buildings standing that were created by the founding families of...

Streetwise roundup: Recently formed Clark County Young Professionals eyes growth

Friday, June 29, 2018

As part of an expansion initiative, Clark County has formed their own Young Professionals group. The Clark County Economic Development Corporation and Tourism Bureau saw the need for the group and the Clark County Young Professionals was established this winter. The Young Professionals of Clark County is still in the infancy stage. Newcomers are welcome to meet with the group. The group has planned meet-and-greet style networking events this summer that will take place in the coming week and going forward. Sheila Nyberg, Executive Director of the CCEDC, got the ball rolling for the YP group. The Clark County Economic Development Corporation & Tourism Bureau saw a growing...

Energy Open House showcases CVTC programs

Friday, June 29, 2018

Eau Claire, WI – Noah Nelson struggled some in his first-ever attempt at climbing an electric power pole wearing the gear line workers depend on, but he had a couple of good teachers on hand during the Energy Open House at Chippewa Valley Technical College on April 19. One teacher was Kadin Westphal of Fall Creek, who just graduated from CVTC’s Electrical Power Distribution program. The other was his father, Aaron Nelson, of Chippewa Falls. “I went to school here to become a lineman back in 2010,” said Aaron, who now works for Xcel Energy. “I brought Noah to show him what...

Maple syrup producer uses technology to improve process

Friday, June 29, 2018

A local producer said making maple syrup is a craft, just like making a craft beer or wine. And the making of maple syrup, he said, is the fun part of the operation where memories are made. Steve Wood, owner of Wood's Maple Orchard near Elmwood, will be retiring soon and his son and grandson will take over the business. Wood learned the business from his dad and was happy to continue the tradition with his son and grandson. "My dad, he was my teacher," Wood said. "He liked really fancy maple syrup." Wood said they have about 15,000 taps out in the...

Pitch Your Business Idea During HATCH 2018

Friday, June 29, 2018

Do you have the next great idea? Have you been working on a startup or have an idea for a business? If so, you could win the 2018 HATCH pitch contest. This pitch program gives local entrepreneurs the opportunity to pitch their idea, speak in front of business leaders, connect with investors, and gain exposure with a broader audience. Anyone with an idea for a new business is invited to apply to compete in one of the three local events. The winner will receive $2,000 to fund their idea! They also qualify to present at the regional finale and compete...

Sliding into a niche

Thursday, June 28, 2018

Local family waterslide restoration company grows from a garage into an industrial building CHIPPEWA FALLS — A growing company that just moved to Chippewa Falls is making quite a splash in its service industry. Fischer Brothers Enterprises is one of just a handful of waterslide restoration service companies in the United States, said co-owner Andrew Fischer. “There are so many small towns of 10,000 people, and they all have a community center with a waterslide,” Fischer said. “We’ve worked a lot for the city of Eau Claire.” The company also has refurbished waterslides in Menomonie, Onalaska, Arcadia, Holmen and Chippewa Falls, he said. “Generally speaking,...

CCFBank announces new location to open in Ellsworth

Thursday, June 28, 2018

EAU CLAIRE — CCFBank announces the addition of a new location at 218 N. Broadway in Ellsworth. Pending regulatory approval, the new location will be open for business in May. "The CCFBank team is really excited to join the business community in Ellsworth," East Region President Tyler Tomesh said. "Having grown up in, and being based in northwest Wisconsin, it's very rewarding for me to see CCFBank help serve and support similar sized communities within this region." Continue to full article.

Community Foundation grants $36,000 to organizations serving Dunn County

Thursday, June 28, 2018

The Board of Directors at the Community Foundation of Dunn County (CFDC) recently awarded over $36,000 in grants to 12 local charitable organizations in areas such as basic human needs, the environment, health and education in its first competitive grant cycle for 2018. Grants were presented at the Foundation’s Annual Luncheon on April 26 at the Off Broadway Banquet Center. These grants are provided by CFDC funds created by local families, philanthropists, corporations and private foundations for the charitable investment in our community, including the Common Good Fund, the Healthy Futures Fund, the Clarence Heckle Fund, the Elizabeth Fenton Fund for...

Spread all over

Wednesday, June 27, 2018

Local flavors go farther as dips, condiments expand their reach through grocery stores, growing their distribution A growing number of people prefer to buy food grown or produced close to home. From Wisconsin stalwarts like beer and cheese to worldly newcomers like salsa and hummus, Chippewa Valley shoppers have plenty of local food options in the area’s major supermarkets. In an era when much of the food market has gone global, the local food movement has the potential to benefit both consumers and producers in the region. Eau Claire’s largest grocer, Festival Foods, which now has three supermarkets in the city, has gotten the message. “Festival...

Center for Independent Living breaks ground on facility expansion

Wednesday, June 27, 2018

The Center for Independent Living for Western Wisconsin (CILWW), a non-profit providing services to people with disabilities in Western Wisconsin broke ground on a large expansion of its main office located in the Stout Technology Park. The groundbreaking ceremony was held on April 30. CILWW has been providing services to people of all disabilities of all ages in 10 counties since 1980. In addition to the main office at 2920 Schneider Avenue, CILWW maintains offices in Eau Claire, Rice Lake and River Falls. “As a growing non-profit, we have simply run out of space,” Executive Director Tim Sheehan said. “This expansion will...

New business looks to spark creativity in Ellsworth

Wednesday, June 27, 2018

For the artistic and creative or those who wish they were more so, a new business in Ellsworth may help people get in touch with their creative side. Kayleen Jakes, owner of Brush Strokes Paint Party, opened a related business in Ellsworth called Brush Strokes Art Supply in March. She held a grand opening celebration April 5. Some in the area may be familiar with Jakes' painting party business. She said she started that business about four years ago. After listening to her customers, she decided to branch out into an art supply store. "Mainly I get feedback from customers at painting classes,"...

State farmers showing strong interest in growing industrial hemp

Tuesday, June 26, 2018

Wisconsin farmers stressed by stagnant dairy and grain markets are showing strong interest in growing industrial hemp this year, but a state agricultural official is warning them not to count on the niche crop to solve their financial problems. “I’d say interest from farmers is almost extreme,” said Brian Kuhn, who heads the plant industry bureau of the state’s Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. “The calls we take every day about hemp are very high, and our website hits blows away numbers for almost anything we’ve put on our website in some time,” he said. “We’re getting distinctly higher numbers...

ExporTech™ An Export Acceleration System for Achieving Profitable Growth

Tuesday, June 26, 2018

ExporTech™ is the only national export assistance program that offers a structured, yet customizable, process that guides companies through every aspect of export growth. At the completion of the program, each company will have developed its own international growth plan and accelerated their export sales process. ExporTech™ was designed specifically for manufacturers who need innovative ways to grow, and see international sales as part of the answer. The program provides executive leaders with a systematic approach for entering or expanding in global markets. What can ExporTech™ do for me? Provide your company with a systematic process for entering or expanding in global markets Connect you with the...

Industrial park access road gets committee green light

Tuesday, June 26, 2018

Two of the Amery City Council’s standing committees gave approval to take the next steps with construction of an access road into the new 20-acre industrial park on the south end of town. The Public Works and Finance committees met on April 24 with engineer Erik Henningsgard of Short Elliot Hendrickson (SEH) to discuss timelines, cost estimates and other details of the road. Henningsgard’s timeline had 13 steps, ranging from wetlands jurisdictional determination with the Army Corps of Engineers up to construction. The timeline had best and worst-case scenarios for completion of the process. Legislation that goes into effect July 1, 2018 will...

Fortune names Xcel Energy among World’s Most Admired Companies for fourth year

Monday, June 25, 2018

Xcel Energy, headquartered in Minneapolis, has been recognized by Fortune magazine as one of the World’s Most Admired Companies, the fourth consecutive year that the company has earned this distinction, ranking fourth this year as most admired electric and gas utility. Xcel Energy, a national leader in wind energy for more than a decade, is ranked highly for its innovation, social responsibility and long-term value when evaluated by peers at other utilities. The magazine surveys executives, directors and industry analysts about companies in their industry then ranks companies based on nine attributes: innovation, people management, use of corporate assets, social responsibility, quality...

Farm House will be retail extension of local food movement

Monday, June 25, 2018

Part of the mystery surrounding what is going on at the former Country Hearth location was revealed when the plywood sheeting that has encased the front of the building all winter was removed, revealing a new storefront. The location will open a year from now as Farm House, an extension of the Farm Table Foundation complex. The building is connected to the rest of the Farm Table Foundation by a side door. Peter Henry says that the building will feature local farm products such as fresh meat, produce, cheeses, soups, dressings, condiments and baked goods produced in the Farm Table kitchens. “The setting...

Wisconsin's Sizzling Economy Has Created a Crippling Labor Shortage. A Team of Productivity Experts Will Solve It

Monday, June 25, 2018

They are boosting the middle market's long-term profitability. And it's really smart economic policy. I have a thing for Wisconsin. If I'm not exactly in love with the state, I've been a pretty heavy flirt. Especially with its cultural mainstays: Madison's hockey team, rye cocktails and a comedy ode to the snowmobile suit. And a couple of weeks ago my old flame announced the best economic development news I have heard anywhere. No, not the Foxconn initiative--where, in exchange for state tax incentives, a Chinese manufacturer will open a flat-panel plant. That is the kind of tangible economic news that political folks find it easy to highlight, even as the...

Mayo Clinic Health System offers volunteer opportunities

Sunday, June 24, 2018

April 15–21 was National Volunteer Week. It was a good opportunity to recognize the volunteers who perform countless valuable services within our community. In 2017, 696 volunteers served nearly 79,000 hours at Mayo Clinic Health System sites throughout northwest Wisconsin, saving nearly $1.9 million, according to Jennifer Loew, director of Volunteer Services. “We have volunteers from many backgrounds, including retired professionals, teachers, stay-at-home moms, students and others,” Loew says. “For anyone who is looking for more meaning in their life, to connect with others in our community, learn a new skill or looking for a sense of purpose, volunteering is a great...

State farmers showing strong interest in growing industrial hemp

Friday, June 22, 2018

Wisconsin farmers stressed by stagnant dairy and grain markets are showing strong interest in growing industrial hemp this year, but a state agricultural official is warning them not to count on the niche crop to solve their financial problems. “I’d say interest from farmers is almost extreme,” said Brian Kuhn, who heads the plant industry bureau of the state’s Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. “The calls we take every day about hemp are very high, and our website hits blows away numbers for almost anything we’ve put on our website in some time,” he said. “We’re getting distinctly higher numbers...

90 years perennial: St. Croix nursery celebrates milestone anniversary

Friday, June 22, 2018

Sometimes people come into Abrahamson Nursery to reconnect with the rich scent of the earth, said Joie Nielson. In the long Minnesota winters, it’s something that she and the other employees of Abrahamson appreciate deeply. It all started in 1928, when the Abrahamson family established a farm store along St. Croix Trail N. in Scandia. Dan Sandager began working there as a teenager in 1960s. His father was an agriculture teacher in the Forest Lake school district, and he found his way to the Abrahamson farm through the FFA program. He worked there during high school and then college, when he...

SEH will design Osceola fab lab

Friday, June 22, 2018

The Osceola Village Board chose architecture firm SEH to design the Osceola Fab Lab and Workforce Development Facility. The village received three proposals in response to its request for qualifications. SEH had the lowest fee proposal, $76,000. Ayres Associates proposed $77,000 and Firm Ground Architects and Engineers, $79,668. However, noted Village Administrator Joel West, qualification requests are evaluated before reviewing fees because the goal is to find the most qualified architect. An ad hoc committee had interviewed candidates on April 2 and 3, recommending SEH. Continue to full article.

Dresser financial health improving, says auditor

Thursday, June 21, 2018

Dresser’s long-term financial position seems to be improving, according to accountant Brock Geyen of CliftonLarsonAllen. Geyen presented the results of the village’s audit, noting that the village is no longer running its water service in the red. “The utilities are slowly paying back what they borrowed from the general fund,” he said. The village’s assets total $1.3 million, according to Geyen. The reserved fund balance is $566,000. “That’s money you can’t spend,” Geyen explained. “That’s advance money from other funds. You have to wait until that comes back.” To give a picture of the village’s financial health Geyen compares the reserved fund balance to the villages...

2018’s Best & Worst States for Millennials

Thursday, June 21, 2018

Loved by marketers yet vilified by media, millennials are at once the most popular and unpopular generation alive. They’re soon to be the largest, too, giving them a huge influence on American culture and consumption. Today, these early-20-to-early-30-somethings who are often depicted through negative stereotypes — entitled, parentally dependent, emotionally fragile — are responsible for 21 percent of all consumer discretionary spending in the U.S. And yet, despite their trillion-dollar purchasing power and higher educational attainment, millennials are economically worse off than their parents. Why? The financial crisis remains a big part of the reason. Millennials have come of age and entered the workforce in...

Milk on hold as Crystal Ball Farms readies for rebuild

Thursday, June 21, 2018

Although milk from Crystal Ball Farms is off grocery store shelves for now, if barn construction goes as planned the dairy will reopen by mid September. The farm’s cow barn burned to the ground March 29. Two cows died in the fire. Fifteen others died of smoke inhalation in the days that followed. Creamery manager Jessi Fouks believes the worst is over. “The rest of the herd is currently looking good and not showing any signs of problems,” she wrote on Facebook in late April. “So fingers crossed, we are now hopefully on a positive trend with rebuild starting soon and maintaining the...

Familiar faces take over Urban Olive and Vine

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

Those who have stopped into Urban Olive and Vine over the last few months may not have noticed a difference at the restaurant, and new owners Carol and Chad Trainor are fine with that. "Nobody will be shocked when they come in," Carol said. Carol and Chad took over in January after working there as server and chef, respectively, for many years. "We figured we were here all the time anyway so might as well buy it," Carol said. The two previously owned another restaurant before it burned down, and had talked about owning another one again after their kids were grown. "We wanted a...

Osceola grad lands fellowship with Timberwolves, Lynx

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

An Osceola graduate has earned a glimpse beyond the basketball court, into the business side of Minnesota’s Timberwolves and Lynx teams. As a fellow with the teams’ business organization, Kailey Ekstrom is learning about everything from public relations to ticket sales in eight six-week rotations through various departments. The fellowship started the last week in February. Ekstrom, who graduated from OHS in 2013, headed first to the public relations department. She learned the PR ropes, communicating with media outlets and coordinating with players on game nights. “We figure out who needs to talk to whom and organize press conferences,” she explained. “It was...

‘Rumor Has It’ opens in former Cascade

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

Serving food and nonalcoholic beverages only, Rumor Has It opened in the former Cascade Bar & Grill. The business’s owner, Dana Schone, remains hopeful that the establishment will one day be permitted to serve alcohol. In mid April, the Osceola Village Board denied Schone a retail liquor license. Because she had already begun remodeling parts of the interior, Schone said Friday that she had no choice but to open without the license. The village board denied the license based on the findings of Osceola police chief Ron Pedrys, whose report was released to the public at the board’s April 16 meeting. In it,...

New development breaks ground on Maxwell Drive

Tuesday, June 19, 2018

Gerrard Corporation has officially broken ground on a new mixed-use development called "The Maxwell," located at 2000 Maxwell Drive. Project highlights include 36 senior housing units and more than 3,000 square feet of commercial space. The Maxwell is phase one of a multi-phase 17-acre housing community. The building offers easy access to a walking and biking trail and is located off Carmichael Drive within walking distance of several shops and services. One- and two-bedroom apartments will be available when the facility opens in October. Each unit will have its own stove, refrigerator, microwave, washer, dryer, and dishwasher. Rent includes in-floor heat, water, sewer,...

Dresser financial health improving, says auditor

Tuesday, June 19, 2018

Dresser’s long-term financial position seems to be improving, according to accountant Brock Geyen of CliftonLarsonAllen. Geyen presented the results of the village’s audit last week, noting that the village is no longer running its water service in the red. “The utilities are slowly paying back what they borrowed from the general fund,” he said. The village’s assets total $1.3 million, according to Geyen. The reserved fund balance is $566,000. “That’s money you can’t spend,” Geyen explained. “That’s advance money from other funds. You have to wait until that comes back.” Continue to full article.

Wisconsin’s exports on the rise

Tuesday, June 19, 2018

WEDC is poised to help companies grow their exports further Wisconsin’s exports grew by 6 percent in 2017 compared to the prior year, reaching a total of $22.3 billion in goods and services exported to 202 countries around the world. The state’s top trading partners are Canada, Mexico and China, and all three of these destinations saw significant increases of Wisconsin exports in 2017. Exports to Canada grew by 4.3 percent, to $6.9 billion, driven by increases in the export of miscellaneous mineral products and electrical machinery. Exports to Mexico were up 4.8 percent to a record $3.2 billion, mostly because of...

Missy Austreng joins Mason Jar

Monday, June 18, 2018

As a passionate planner and positive motivator, Missy Austreng joins the Mason Jar team at 511 2nd Street, Suite 108, Hudson. Missy is known for elevating clients brands through authentic relationships and thinking big. At Mason Jar, Missy will oversee content marketing and website projects. We welcome Missy to the team! Connect with her at masonjarmarketing.com.

Joseph Gebert is Growing His Career as a Bank Manager in Ladysmith

Monday, June 18, 2018

Joseph Gebert is the Branch Manager for the Wells Fargo in Ladysmith. As a young professional, he chose to grow his career in Ladysmith because he enjoys the area and appreciates the opportunity he has to be a resource for community members seeking information, help and support with their financial needs. As the Branch manager, he manages all functions of the bank branch, serving his customers total financial service needs. Simultaneously, he creates, trains, and coaches a successful team of tellers, bankers, service and operational support members while developing and administering budgets, business development, performance objectives, staffing models, schedules and...

Wisconsin’s cluster accelerators highlight innovative business development approach

Monday, June 18, 2018

Supporters of Wisconsin’s statewide startup ecosystem understand the key to success is delivering the right resources to the right entrepreneurs at the right time and in the right place. Wisconsin’s industry development strategy leverages a versatile investment tool—the Targeted Industry Project Program administered by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC)—to support catalytic initiatives in industry sectors with the greatest potential for significant job growth. Participants in such projects include private business, industry consortia organizations, educational institutions and economic development stakeholders. One example of such an industry-focused investment is the establishment of a center of excellence that acts as an anchor for education, R&D,...

Plantables launches Kindness Kampaign

Sunday, June 17, 2018

Plantables, a Hudson worker-focused business providing environmentally friendly products, launched the "Plant Kindness Kampaign — Every Seed Matters" in partnership with other Hudson businesses. The event took place April 16-22. Participating businesses handed out plantable seed paper or seed bombs, manufactured by the Plantables team, to their customers, employees and clients as an act of kindness. Participants (those who give and receive) were encouraged to note acts of kindness all around them and share using Facebook or #plantkindness on Twitter and Instagram. Proceeds from the Kindness Kampaign went to support the Hudson Area Backpack Program, which provides healthy, nonperishable, child-friendly food items...

Bell newspapers presented awards at state convention

Friday, June 15, 2018

Bell Press newspapers in Ladysmith, Chetek and Barron were presented awards during the Wisconsin Newspaper Association annual convention at the Sheraton Hotel in Madison. Competing among newspapers of “medium-circulation,” the Chetek Alert captured first prize in the breaking news coverage category for its work in the aftermath of the deadly tornado that struck Barron County on May 16, 2016. Staff member Carl Cooley was the writer and photographer for the coverage. Chetek sports editor Tyler Florczak was recognized with a first place award for his feature photo of a chickadee landing next to a cardinal on a bird feeder. Competing among large-circulation weeklies...

Microloans can assist small businesses

Thursday, June 14, 2018

Obtaining the necessary financing can often be a challenge for a small business or entrepreneur, particularly one that is a startup. The reasons include credit quality of the owners, the risk inherent with the nature and type of business, management experience of the owners, and size of the request. Need $1,000 to $50,000 of capital to finance your business venture and unable to obtain your needed credit from traditional lenders such as banks and credit union? A microloan from Impact Seven, WWBIC or Women Venture may be a source of financing. Impact Seven and WWBIC are both U.S. Small Business Administration...

Maple syrup season

Wednesday, June 13, 2018

As the temperatures warmed up and spring arrived, maple syrup producers were out in the woods working to make that sweet treat so many enjoy. Lindsey Baris and her husband Ryan Browne own Rising Sun Farm outside of River Falls and have begun their maple syrup production for the 2018 season. Baris described their operation as a middle-size operation; they produce maple syrup to sell on their farm and at farmers markets. "We have a strong following," Baris said. "We always sell out by next year." Rising Sun Farm has been in operation for 40 years. Prior to Baris and Browne taking over...

New Plum City restaurant planned to open later this year

Tuesday, June 12, 2018

People may have noticed a lot of work happening in the building that used to be Dean's Bar and Grill in Plum City. New owners are getting it ready for their new restaurant and bar. Robin and Jeremy Kannel closed on the property at the end of February, and Jeremy said they actually started tearing things out in the middle of February. The plan is for them to open Beaves, which will be a bar and restaurant. He said they will for sure be open by the third weekend in July, but hopefully they will be able to open sooner depending on...

Maple syrup producer uses technology to improve process

Monday, June 11, 2018

A local producer said making maple syrup is a craft, just like making a craft beer or wine. And the making of maple syrup, he said, is the fun part of the operation where memories are made. Steve Wood, owner of Wood's Maple Orchard near Elmwood, will be retiring soon and his son and grandson will take over the business. Wood learned the business from his dad and was happy to continue the tradition with his son and grandson. "My dad, he was my teacher," Wood said. "He liked really fancy maple syrup." Wood said they have about 15,000 taps out in the...

CCFBank announces new location to open in Ellsworth

Sunday, June 10, 2018

EAU CLAIRE — CCFBank announces the addition of a new location at 218 N. Broadway in Ellsworth. Pending regulatory approval, the new location was open for business in May. "The CCFBank team is really excited to join the business community in Ellsworth," East Region President Tyler Tomesh said. "Having grown up in, and being based in northwest Wisconsin, it's very rewarding for me to see CCFBank help serve and support similar sized communities within this region." CCFBank currently has 21 locations throughout Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan. "We are putting together a great team of bankers to serve the Ellsworth community. Continue to full...

Fresh ideas for area business owners offered through workshop

Friday, June 08, 2018

The Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, is bringing an exciting workshop to Ellsworth for the benefit of all storefront small businesses in the region. "Attractive Storefronts and Interior Spaces" will be presented by Lyn Falk of RetailWorks, Inc., an award-winning branding, design and display firm headquartered in Milwaukee. Falk's expertise in retail design, business, science, consumer behavior and environmental psychology help her build healthy, purposeful and productive spaces that move hearts, minds and merchandise. "As much as we might not want to admit it, first impressions are everything," said Kim Beebe, Ellsworth Chamber executive...

ExporTech™ An Export Acceleration System for Achieving Profitable Growth

Wednesday, June 06, 2018

ExporTech™ is the only national export assistance program that offers a structured, yet customizable, process that guides companies through every aspect of export growth. At the completion of the program, each company will have developed its own international growth plan and accelerated their export sales process. ExporTech™ was designed specifically for manufacturers who need innovative ways to grow, and see international sales as part of the answer. The program provides executive leaders with a systematic approach for entering or expanding in global markets. What can ExporTech™ do for me? Provide your company with a systematic process for entering or expanding in global markets Connect you with the...

Wisconsin's Sizzling Economy Has Created a Crippling Labor Shortage. A Team of Productivity Experts Will Solve It

Tuesday, June 05, 2018

They are boosting the middle market's long-term profitability. And it's really smart economic policy. I have a thing for Wisconsin. If I'm not exactly in love with the state, I've been a pretty heavy flirt. Especially with its cultural mainstays: Madison's hockey team, rye cocktails and a comedy ode to the snowmobile suit. And a couple of weeks ago my old flame announced the best economic development news I have heard anywhere. No, not the Foxconn initiative--where, in exchange for state tax incentives, a Chinese manufacturer will open a flat-panel plant. That is the kind of tangible economic news that political folks find it easy to highlight, even as the...

2018’s Best & Worst States for Millennials

Monday, June 04, 2018

Loved by marketers yet vilified by media, millennials are at once the most popular and unpopular generation alive. They’re soon to be the largest, too, giving them a huge influence on American culture and consumption. Today, these early-20-to-early-30-somethings who are often depicted through negative stereotypes — entitled, parentally dependent, emotionally fragile — are responsible for 21 percent of all consumer discretionary spending in the U.S. And yet, despite their trillion-dollar purchasing power and higher educational attainment, millennials are economically worse off than their parents. Why? The financial crisis remains a big part of the reason. Millennials have come of age and entered the workforce in...

Wisconsin’s exports on the rise

Sunday, June 03, 2018

WEDC is poised to help companies grow their exports further Wisconsin’s exports grew by 6 percent in 2017 compared to the prior year, reaching a total of $22.3 billion in goods and services exported to 202 countries around the world. The state’s top trading partners are Canada, Mexico and China, and all three of these destinations saw significant increases of Wisconsin exports in 2017. Exports to Canada grew by 4.3 percent, to $6.9 billion, driven by increases in the export of miscellaneous mineral products and electrical machinery. Exports to Mexico were up 4.8 percent to a record $3.2 billion, mostly because of...

Wisconsin’s cluster accelerators highlight innovative business development approach

Friday, June 01, 2018

Supporters of Wisconsin’s statewide startup ecosystem understand the key to success is delivering the right resources to the right entrepreneurs at the right time and in the right place. Wisconsin’s industry development strategy leverages a versatile investment tool—the Targeted Industry Project Program administered by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC)—to support catalytic initiatives in industry sectors with the greatest potential for significant job growth. Participants in such projects include private business, industry consortia organizations, educational institutions and economic development stakeholders. One example of such an industry-focused investment is the establishment of a center of excellence that acts as an anchor for education, R&D,...

Hundreds flock to Wisconsin's first Hemp Expo

Thursday, May 31, 2018

Milwaukee (WISN) -- Hundreds turned out to learn about business opportunities that legalized hemp can bring to Wisconsin. "My product contains zero percent THC, will not make you fail a drug test," said Rachel Cartwright, of CBD Therapeutics of Wisconsin. Cartwright makes therapeutic oils and gummies using hemp. Hemp is a variety of cannabis, but it lacks THC -- the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. "You could smoke a joint of hemp the size of a log, and you still wouldn't get high," Cartwright said. Cannabis activist Jim Naumann fought to legalize hemp. Now, he's set his sights on legalizing marijuana. "This is not the evil we...

Careers, technology on display at Manufacturing Show

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

The instruments began belting out the opening bars of the rock classic “Smoke on the Water,” but the musicians were nowhere to be found. A computer program was the conductor, and various mechanical devices strummed the guitar strings, tapped on the drums, played the keyboard and plucked at the base strings. The automated rock band was one of the attractions at the annual Manufacturing Show March 1 at Chippewa Valley Technical College, and Melissa Rasmus of Chippewa Falls pointed out to her son, Sean, that this was a far more elaborate version of a toy they had at home. Should he...

Governor recognizes Indianhead Enterprises

Tuesday, May 29, 2018

Governor Scott Walker recently issued certificates of commendation to 23 Community Rehabilitation Programs across the state in recognition of the 30th anniversary of the Wisconsin Rest Area Maintenance Program. Among them is Indianhead Enterprises, Inc. which has been involved with the program since the rest stops on Interstate 94 near Menomonie opened their doors. Since 1987, the state has benefited from a valuable partnership with local community-based rehabilitation programs, like Indianhead Enterprises, whose workers oversee the daily maintenance activities at Wisconsin rest areas, certain waysides, park and rides and safety and weight enforcement facilities. Indianhead Enterprises is responsible for the two...

DATCP seeks Wis. Milk Marketing Board district director for Dunn County

Monday, May 28, 2018

MADISON –The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) invites Wisconsin dairy producers who are interested in serving the state’s dairy industry to submit a nomination to represent their district as a Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board (WMMB) director. DATCP oversees the nomination and election process. Eight out of 25 districts are currently up for election, including District 5 which covers Dunn and St. Croix counties. To qualify, a nominee must be an active dairy producer who sells milk into commercial channels and lives in the represented district up for election. Each potential candidate must acquire at least five signatures from active...

Students compete, learn at CVTC Ag Skills competition

Friday, May 25, 2018

With a long plastic sleeve over her arm, Cadott High School senior Vanessa Hanson reached into the back end of a cow, all the way up to her shoulder. This time, it was just a simulator at the Chippewa Valley Technical College Energy Education Center during the annual Ag Skills Competition, but Hanson is prepared for the real thing. “I want to be a veterinarian, so most likely I will do that for real,” she said. Hanson was one of 97 students from 10 high schools attending the Tuesday, March 6, Ag Skills Competition, which included tours of CVTC’s Energy Education Center...

Downtown Neighbors: Comics store welcomes (Super)heroes

Thursday, May 24, 2018

Growing up in Glenwood City, John Hansen had two goals in life, to own a house and to own his own comic book store. At the age of 35, Hansen had already accomplished both goals. Heroes Welcome, Menomonie’s premiere comic book shop, is set to celebrate its three-year anniversary as a member of downtown this month. Hansen says he “can’t believe it has been three years already. Menomonie has been very accepting of the business.” So, why comic books? After moving to the Twin Cities, Hansen remembered visiting the now-defunct Shinders comic book and baseball card stores that were scatted throughout the...

St. Croix EDC honors bests businesses

Friday, May 18, 2018

Leaders and members of the St. Croix Economic Development Center came together on Thursday, Feb. 22 to recognize the 2017 winners for business of the year. Ciro, LLC of Hudson was honored as the 2017 Emerging Business of the Year. The award is presented to companies based in St. Croix County that have been in business for five years or fewer. Ciro designs products for power sports enthusiasts, including accessories for motorcycles such as LED lighting, holders and more. Founder Aero Rudd accepted the award. The Small Business of the Year award, with 29 or fewer employees, went to Skycoat LLC of the...

Supply Chain Marketplace ready for companies seeking to do business with Foxconn

Thursday, October 05, 2017

CREATE A PROFILE Statewide, online sourcing tool is free and allows opportunity to showcase full capabilities The statewide Supply Chain Marketplace has unveiled a Foxconn-specific directory for Wisconsin companies seeking to be part of potential business opportunities with the manufacturer. Foxconn Technology Group announced on July 26 that it planned to invest $10 billion by 2020 to build a world-class manufacturing campus in the state. Since then, New North Inc., the Momentum West equivalent in the northeast part of the state, has been working closely with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), and other partners to build a supply-chain directory tailored specifically to...

Equalized Values Report shows four percent increase in property value

Thursday, October 18, 2018

The Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) released its annual Equalized Value Report. The report shows that Wisconsin’s total statewide equalized property value as of Jan. 1, was $549 billion, a 4 percent increase over the prior year. Equalized Values are based on data from Jan. 1, 2017 to Jan. 1, 2018. Wisconsin residential property was valued at $388 billion, an increase of 5.1 percent, or $18.9 billion. The 5.1 percent increase marks the greatest one-year increase in residential values since 2007. The DOR report also shows construction activity continues an upward trend. Wisconsin added $8.5 billion in new construction during 2017, including...

New hotels set for city’s south side

Thursday, August 16, 2018

Business customers, movers, one-night visitors contribute to demand Eau Claire’s south side is getting two new extended-stay hotels — one poised to open in September and the other hopes to break ground next month. The newest announced hotel planned for the city is a Home2 by Hilton, which would be built behind Oakwood Mall. If everything goes as planned, the 84-suite, four-story hotel will begin construction in August and open in summer 2019, according to Mike Patel, president of the Eau Claire Lodging Group that will own the Home2. Continue to full article

New development breaks ground on Maxwell Drive

Tuesday, June 19, 2018