NewsWave - Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce
Transcription
NewsWave - Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce
November/December 2013 Vol. 16, Issue 7 Igniting the spark in Manufacturing NewsWave ̻ www.oshkoshchamber.com 1 One Master of Business Administration Degree. Two Paths. Professional and Executive. Choose the path that fits your level of experience, career goals and time commitment. Visit uwosh.edu/cob/graduate, call (920) 424-3199 or call us toll-free at (800) 633-1430 for more information. Stephen Nunn, MBA Student, Graduating ‘14 Operations Manager, Kimberly-Clark Corporation, Neenah, Wis. LASIK Your business relies on your reputation Protect it by relying on ours Only $1350 per eye! Pest Management, Inc. Wisconsin’s trusted Commercial and Residential Pest Management Company for over 65 years. OptiVision Eye Care Contact us today for a FREE inspection! 800.878.2110 | Batzner.com 1-800-204-2779 Nationally Ranked LASIK Surgeons: Dr. Stephen Dudley & Dr. Gerald Clarke Oshkosh Neenah Fond du Lac Berlin Appleton Green Bay NewsWave News Wave November/December 2013 Volume 16, Issue 7 President/CEO John Casper Chairman's Message Feature Stories Editor Kari Cassidy [email protected] Layout Megan Kok [email protected] 6 Cover Photography Phil Weston Weston Imaging Group LLC NewsWave (USPS 020-309) is published bimonthly at a subscription of $25 by the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce, 120 Jackson Street Oshkosh, WI 54901 www.oshkoshchamber.com Periodical postage paid at Oshkosh, WI. Postmaster Send address changes to the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce 120 Jackson Street Oshkosh, WI 54901 Phone (920) 303-2266 Fax (920) 303-2263 www.oshkoshchamber.com E-mail address: [email protected] Small Business of the Year 10 2013 Chamber Award Winners 13 Ribbon Cuttings 21 Ask the Expert: Stop Making Stupid Mistakes Upcoming Events Advertising Kari Cassidy Find NewsWave online at www.oshkoshchamber.com/news. 6 14 13 Calendar of events Department 5 Chairman's message 12 Oshkosh Chamber Clips 16 Business Briefs 23 Member Spotlight: Wisconsin Vision Special Insert Oshkosh Chamber 106th Annual Report The Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce is a 5-star accredited chamber and proud member of the New 4 NewsWave ̻ March 2013 November/December 2013 I am honored and excited to serve as your Oshkosh Chamber Chairman of the Board during the next year. I am proud of the accomplishments the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce made this past year and I look forward to creating an atmosphere of growth for businesses here in Oshkosh. As I look ahead to the upcoming year, the Oshkosh Chamber sees many opportunities. With the implementation of Obamacare and the insurance exchanges in place, the Oshkosh Chamber is working diligently to have a new health insurance option available to members. The program would be a member exclusive online employee benefit marketplace that would provide people with insurance benefits including health, vision, dental, life and more. This insurance marketplace will be the first association private exchange in Wisconsin. The Chamber continues to be committed to growing and retaining its membership. We developed an aggressive plan last year and saw the membership grow to 1075 members. We truly value our members by offering a compelling strategic plan and program of work. Our programming is specifically designed to advocate for business, further economic development, and assist in the growth of businesses. To help stimulate economic growth, the Oshkosh Chamber has taken a lead role to convert Highway 41 into an interstate. This conversion is essential for business growth and will showcase Oshkosh as a top-tier community. Our economic development team will use this as a selling point to market the community to bring in more businesses and jobs. As your chairman I am supported by exceptional leaders in the community. The Board of Directors consists of the best business leaders Oshkosh has to offer. We are truly focused on helping the Chamber stay relevant and an essential organization, and making Oshkosh a great place to work and live. I am truly grateful to be following in the footsteps of Vicki Updike and the chairman before her. This is an exciting time for Oshkosh and I see great opportunity for growth in our community. I look forward to being your chairman for the next year. I encourage you to contact me anytime during the year to discuss any suggestions or concerns you might have about Oshkosh. I know we will work together and continue to show people why Oshkosh is a great place to live. The Oshkosh Chamber is the voice for the business community. Our goal of strengthening economic development remains one of the top priorities for the organization. Oshkosh continues to be the leader in economic development in the Fox Valley region. Follow us: Please pass along or recycle this magazine Welcome Chairman Mike Floyd of Continental Girbau North working to serve business and the community. Mike Floyd 2013-14 Oshkosh Chamber Chairman of the Board and President of Continental Girbau NewsWave ̻ www.oshkoshchamber.com 5 Inspiring The Next Generation of Manufacturers By Matt Jameson & Kari Cassidy F rom a small one room shop in 1955 to a leader in the manufacturing industry, Jay Manufacturing, Inc has shown resilient commitment to growth over the past five decades and they show no signs of slowing down. This year, Jay Manufacturing has been named the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce 2013 Small Business of the Year. Jay Manufacturing, a multi-generation owned company, is a premier full-service metal fabricator. The company has occupied three headquarter locations since starting operations in 1955. Beginning in a small shop on Custer Avenue on Oshkosh’s east side to its current locations on 20th Ave. and Atlas Ave.—encompassing 120,000 square feet in these two Oshkosh facilities. Despite the economic challenges of the past few years Jay Manufacturing has expanded its current facilities three times since 2005, including a 53,000 square foot facility and technology expansion in 2012. Since 2005 Jay has invested more than $20 million in plant expansions and new technology. Jay Manufacturing is currently retrofitting parts of both Oshkosh locationsto meet the large scale needs of new clients, adding more production space and additional technology upgrades in 2014. The company has increased its employment in each of the last 10 years, now employing nearly 100 individuals in its Oshkosh locations. The company serves clients in more than 50 distinct industries throughout the United States and operates three production shifts, seven days a week. As part of its 2012 expansion, the company added a 3-D 4000 Watt Rotary Laser – the first of its kind in the Midwest. This new equipment allows Jay Manufacturing to service companies that need not only sheet metal fabrication but round/square tube fabrication as well. The company also increased automation with large material handling towers for laser cutting process. In addition to these advances, the company also invested in additional forming and welding technology as well as the introduction of a fully equipped weld testing laboratory, staffed by three Certified Welding Inspectors. 2013 6 NewsWave ̻ November/December March 2013 Inspiring the Next Generation of Manufacturers In 2013, Governor Scott Walker selected Jay Manufacturing as the location to sign into law the Wisconsin Fast Forward legislation. This legislation will dramatically help Wisconsin close the skills gap and the selection of Jay Manufacturing as the site of the bill signing is testament to Jay Manufacturing’s active participation with education institutions and other manufacturers to address this issue. “It’s really important for Jay Manufacturing to work with the community and educational institutions. We want to give young people an idea of what modern manufacturing looks like and encourage people to look at a manufacturing degree,” said Matt Jameson, President and Chief Operating Officer at Jay Manufacturing. In addition to the bill signing, Jay partnered with Fox Valley Technical College and Oshkosh Corporation to present Oshkosh’s first “Manufacturing Day” in the fall of 2012, hosting students from local high schools to learn about manufacturing career options. “Jay Manufacturing is an example of a company that understands that in order to educate the next wave of talent they have to take an active role. They have played a vital role in Fox Valley Technical College’s effort to improve the flow of talent from high school to the work force,” said Steve Straub, Dean of Manufacturing at Fox Valley Technical College. Additionally, Jay Manufacturing has hosted groups of students from the Boys and Girls Club of Oshkosh and other area organizations to give students perspectives on these career choices. A Leader in Manufacturing Jay Manufacturing’s advances and reputation as a top-level fabricator has also been noted in several industry publications, both locally and nationally. In an article published in The Fabricator, a national industry publication, it focused on Jay Manufacturing’s most important asset—it’s staff and how company management goes about finding the very best individuals for the company. Jay Manufacturing’s management values the soft skills— teamwork, communication, leadership, and an inquisitive mind. “It’s really our people that make Jay Manufacturing so successful. When we hire people we look for life experiences, not necessarily a manufacturing background. We’ve turned away individuals who were qualified in a technological sense, because we didn’t see those important soft skills in evidence,” said Jameson. Additionally, we don’t want everyone in the company to be looking at issues and opportunities strictly though a manufacturing mindset. We want a well-rounded multi-disciplinary team.” “It’s really important for Jay Manufacturing to work with the community and educational institutions. We want to give young people an idea of what modern manufacturing looks like and encourage people to look at a manufacturing degree.” In 2013, Jay Manufacturing was selected as the host for the state meeting of the American Welding Society. This is the first time that a non-OEM has hosted the gathering. More than $3,000 in scholarship funds was raised to support welding education. Additionally, Jay Manufacturing’s staff was selected to give presentations at the 2013 National Robotic Arc Welding mATT jAMESON Conference. Conference attendees described Jay Manufacturing’s development pRESIDENT & cHIEF oPERATING oFFICER of specific code as revolutionary. JAY MANUFACTURING Community Focused Jay Manufacturing and its associates believe in actively supporting a strong community. “We want to make Oshkosh and even better place. We want other businesses to come here and grow. In the end, it helps the standard of living,” said Jameson. Jay Manufacturing was happy to participate in and lend its views to the Oshkosh Chamber’s Targeted Industries Study. Additionally, Jay Manufacturing’s staff have participated in the Chamber’s manufacturing cluster group and served on workforce development panels for Fox Valley Technical College. Jay Manufacturing is providing mentoring time to the Center for Entrepreneurship NewsWave ̻ www.oshkoshchamber.com 7 and Innovation, an initiative of the Small Business Development Center at UW Oshkosh. The company is also a member of the Oshkosh Chamber, Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, NEW Manufacturing Alliance and the Wisconsin Family Business Forum. Jay Manufacturing, its officers and staff members serve as board members, volunteers, consultants and financial supporters for numerous organizations including, but not limited to: Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh; Salvation Army, Fox Valley Technical College, Leadership Oshkosh, Boy Scouts of America, Oshkosh Youth Soccer Club, Oshkosh Area YMCA, Christine Ann Center and many more. Jay Manufacturing is also a family focused business. For over five decades, the company has been passed down from generation to generation. Matt Jameson has been the President since 2007. He said he could have moved in his previous career to Kansas City or Chicago, but he decided to stay in Oshkosh. Jameson takes pride in being an industry leader and focuses on creating a team of workers that can propel Jay Manufacturing even further up the manufacturing industry ladder. Full Steam Ahead The economy may still be uncertain, but Jay Manufacturing isn’t slowing down. Since August, Jay has added eight more positions to its production staff and within the next six months expects to add at least 20 welders. Jay will also turn 20,000 feet of warehouse space into 20,000 feet of manufacturing space within the coming months. All of this to meet the growing needs of its client base. “Jay Manufacturing wants to continue to be an employer of choice. In terms of manufacturing we’re already an industry leader, and we want to continue to grow in a smart fashion. We’ll continue to be diverse and serve a number of different industries while anticipating, and acting on, major trends,” said Jameson. The biggest challenge ahead for Jay Manufacturing and manufacturers in general is the skills gap. Recently only 30% of applicants were able to pass Jay Manufacturing’s written and technical skills test for employment as welders, and in the coming years leaders at Jay hope to raise that. In order to do that Jay will continue to work with the community, local high schools and colleges. Join the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce for our Introduction to Project Management Seminar Series Join UW Oshkosh Senior Lecturer, Andy Miller, as he teaches people the tools & techniques needed to begin more effectively managing projects. Information Seminar Wednesday, November 20th 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. at the Oshkosh Chamber. Seminar series runs January - April 2014 Mark your calendars for: Jan. 21, Feb. 18, March 18 & April 15 $295 per person For more information and to sign up for the seminar and the series, contact Kari Cassidy at [email protected] or (920) 303-2265, ext. 20. The Oshkosh Chamber is the Voice of Business! “As your 2014 Board Chairman, it’s my job to continue the vision for creating a pro-business environment so that we can all prosper and succeed.” EN Publication No.: 020-309 Date of Filing: September 2013 Issue Frequency: Bimonthly No. of Issues Published Annually: 6 Annual Subscription Fee: $25 Location of Publication: 120 Jackson Street, Oshkosh, WI 54901 Location of Publisher’s Headquarters: 120 Jackson Street, Oshkosh, WI 54901 Name and Address of Publisher and Editor; Publisher: Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce, 120 Jackson Street, Oshkosh, WI 54901; Editor: Kari Cassidy Owner: Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce, 120 Jackson Street, Oshkosh, WI 54901; Officer: John Casper, President/CEO; Editor: Samantha Anderson Known Bondholders, Mortgages, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages or Other Securities: None ISION TM Extent and Nature of Circulation: Average Number of Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 months: Total No. Copies: 1,913 Paid/Requested Circulation Paid/Requested Outside-County Mail Subscriptions: 329 Paid In-County Subscriptions: 1,462 Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Non-USPS Paid Distributors: 0 Mike Floyd President - Continental Girbau Oshkosh Chamber Board Chair Join me as we • Sew the seeds for future economic development • Cultivate young prosessionals and future leaders • Champion programs that educate and enrich members • Grow membership and participation • Create an employee health benefit exchange • Encourage each member to harvest the benefits and full value in this great organization Working together we succeed! 8 NewsWave ̻ March 2013 November/December 2013 Publication Title: NewsWave Issue Date for Circulation Data: September 2013 Jay Manufacturing continues to impact not only the community, but also its clients, as it continues to offer cutting edge products and services that set them apart from the competition. There’s no doubt that Jay Manufacturing has a bright future ahead. The Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce is pleased to name Jay Manufacturing the 2013 Small Business of the Year. Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation (Required by 39 U.S.C. 3685) Total Paid Requested Circulation: 1,791 Free Distribution By Mail: 20 Free Distribution Outside the Mail: 20 Total Free Distribution: 40 Total Distributions: 1831 Copies Non Distributed: 82 Total: 1,913 Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation: 97.8% This Statement of Ownership is printed in the Nov 2013 issue of this publication. Kari Cassidy, editor; I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. NewsWave ̻ www.oshkoshchamber.com 9 The Leaders of Oshkosh 2013 Annual Meeting Award Winners S tephen Mosling Commitme nt to Educ a tion – Beth Wyman B et h Wy m an has s h o w n h e r d e d ic a t io n t o t h e e d u c a t io n s y s t e m in O s h k o s h b y s pear headi ng th e O s h k o s h 4 Ed u c a t io n p ro je c t . O s h k o s h 4 Ed u c a t io n h o s t e d 5 0 c o mm u n it y l i s t eni ng s es s io n s t h is p a s t y e a r f o r re s id e n t s in O s h k o s h t o c o me t o g e t h e r. A t o t al o f 590 peopl e a t t e n d e d t h e s e s s io n s . Th e p ro je c t is t h e la rg e s t c o mmu n it y e n g a g e m e n t Stew R ieckman – Lynne Webster Leadership Aw ard T h is a w a r d is p r e se n t e d in m e m o r y o f Lyn n e We b st e r, a w o m a n w h o e xe m p lif ie d a co m m it m e n t t o Osh ko sh like n o o t h e r. S t e w R ie ckm a n r e ce n t ly r e t ir e d a s t h e Ge n e r a l M a n a g e r o f t h e N o r t h w e st e r n w h e r e h e h a d b e e n sin ce 1 9 6 9 . T h r o u g h t h e ye a r s, S t e w co n t in u e d t o d e ve lo p a p r o d u ct t h a t Osh ko sh r e sid e n t s co u ld co n n e ct w it h . H e g o t p e o p le e n g a g e d a n d ke p t t h e m in f o r m e d a b o u t co m m u n it y e ve n t s, ca u se s a n d im p o r t a n t issu e s. S t e w b e lie ve d it w a s t h e n e w sp a p e r ’s o b lig a t io n t o co n n e ct t h e co m m u n it y w it h g o o d ca u se s t o su p p o r t . S t e w w ill co n t in u e t o sh o w h is le a d e r sh ip d u r in g r e t ir e m e n t t h r o u g h t h e U n it e d Wa y. pr oj ec t i n s upp o rt o f p u b lic e d u c a t io n u n d e rt a k e n in O s h k o s h . Be t h is c u rre n t ly t h e Boar d Pr es i de n t o f t h e O s h k o s h Are a C o mmu n it y Fo u n d a t io n . Be t h is a n a d v o c a t e f o r educ at i on and e n s u rin g t h e s u c c e s s o f o u r f u t u re w o rk f o rc e . Petr a Roter – Woman of Achievement P e t r a R o t e r, Vice C h a n ce llo r f o r S t u d e n t A ff a ir s a t U W Osh ko sh , e xce ls n o t o n ly in h e r w o r kp la ce , b u t t h r o u g h o u t t h e co m m u n it y. P e t r a t r u ly ca r e s a b o u t t h e st u d e n t s o n ca m p u s a n d st r ive s t o im p r o ve t h e ir e xp e r ie n ce in a n y w a y p o ssib le . S h e h a s b e e n a ke y p la ye r in m a jo r ch a n g e s se e n a cr o ss ca m p u s in clu d in g t h e S t u d e n t R e cr e a t io n Hori z on Awa r d – David Albr echt D av i d Al br ec ht i s f o c u s e d o n ma k in g W in n e b a g o C o u n t y a b e t t e r p la c e t o liv e . D a v id is c ur r ent l y t he Ch a irma n o f t h e W in n e b a g o C o u n t y Bo a rd . Sin c e D a v id ’s in v o lv e me nt s t ar t ed i n 1986 , h e h e lp e d W in n e b a g o C o u n t y b e re c o g n iz e d n a t io n a lly a n d s t a t e - a n d We lln e ss C e n t e r, t h e S t u d e n t S u cce ss C e n t e r a n d H o r izo n Villa g e . P e t r a h a s se r ve d o n t h e Osh ko sh U n it e d Wa y B o a r d f o r t h e p a st f ive ye a r s a n d st a r t e d h e r se co n d t e r m a s p r e sid e n t in M a r ch 2 0 1 3 . P e t r a d e se r ve s o u r t h a n ks f o r cr e a t in g g r e a t le a d e r s f o r o u r f u t u r e . w i de f or bei n g a b le t o s u p p o rt o p e ra t io n s w it h o u t c o u n t y t a x s a le s . I t w a s b e c a u se of D av i d’s l ea d e rs h ip a n d c o mmit me n t t h a t h e lp e d b rin g a n a v ia t io n b u s in e s s p a rk t o Os hk os h. H e s a w t h is a s o p p o rt u n it y t o le v e ra g e o u r re p u t a t io n a s t h e me c c a o f avia t i on and br i ng mo re b u s in e s s t o t h e c it y, c o u n t y a n d re g io n . D a v id h e lp e d le a d t h e c i t y i n t he r i ght d ire c t io n w it h h is d e t e rmin a t io n a n d le a d e rs h ip . Zack Pawlosk y – Propel Young Professional Z a ck P a w lo sky is ve r y a ct ive in t h e Osh ko sh C h a m b e r a n d P r o p e l, t h e C h a m b e r ’s yo u n g p r o f e ssio n a l n e t w o r k. A s a m e m b e r o f p r o p e l, h e p la ys a vit a l r o le in t h e st e e r in g co m m it t e e w o r kin g t o b r in g m o r e n e t w o r kin g o p p o r t u n it ie s a n d e d u ca t io n se m in a r s. Z a ck a lso m a in t a in s a ll t h e so cia l m e d ia f o r P r o p e l. Z a ck is t h e o w n e r o f C a n d e o C r e a t ive , a so cia l m e d ia m a r ke t in g a g e n cy in Osh ko sh t h a t h e st a r t e d a t 2 0 Al berta Ki m ba ll Community Se r v ic e Awa r d – Glenn Cur r an Gl enn C ur r an has g o n e a b o v e a n d b e y o n d d e v o t in g h is t ime a n d e ff o rt t o c o mmu n it y se r vice ye a r s o ld . We a r e h o n o r e d t o h a ve a n in d ivid u a l like Z a ck h e lp in g le a d P r o p e l a n d se r vin g o u r co m m u n it y. i n O s hk os h. Gle n n , a lo n g w it h f o u r o t h e r So u t h w e s t R o t a ria n s , s t a rt e d Ba t t le o n B a g o in 2007 as an alt e rn a t iv e me t h o d t o f u n d ra is in g . Th is ic e f is h in g e v e n t b rin g s t h o u s a n d s o f peopl e t o t he O s h k o s h a re a a n d h a s ra is e d n e a rly $ 5 0 0 , 0 0 0 in 6 y e a rs . All t h e mo n e y r ai s ed goes t o w a rd s “Kid ’s & C o n s e rv a t io n ” e ff o rt s t h ro u g h o u t W is c o n s in . G le n n a lso s t ay s bus y w it h t h e Bo y s a n d G irls C lu b s e rv in g o n t h e ir b o a rd o f d ire c t o rs . John Rubino – Ambassador of the Year Jo h n R u b in o is a n A m b a ssa d o r w h o is a lw a ys w illin g t o h e lp . A s a C h a m b e r A m b a ssa d o r, Jo h n vo lu n t e e r s h is t im e t o h e lp a t C h a m b e r e ve n t s su ch a s B u sin e ss A f t e r H o u r s, A . M . Osh ko sh , a s w e ll a s a t t e n d in g r ib b o n cu t t in g s a n d sa le s clu b . I n f a ct , Jo h n h a s a t t e n d e d m o r e t h a n 4 0 C h a m b e r e ve n t s w it h in t h e p a st ye a r. H e sa ys h is f a vo r it e A m b a ssa d o r a ct ivit y is g r e e t in g p e o p le a t B u sin e ss A f t e r H o u r s. Jo h n h a s b e e n a C h a m b e r A m b a ssa d o r sin ce 2 0 0 9 a n d se r ve d a s A m b a ssa d o r P r e sid e n t Outstandi ng Cha mbe r Volunte e r – Nick Behnke f o r t h e 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3 f isca l ye a r. N i c k Behnk e has b e e n in v o lv e d w it h t h e O s h k o s h C h a mb e r s in c e 2 0 0 0 . H e s e rv e s a s a C ham ber A m bas s a d o r a n d a t t e n d s ma n y rib b o n c u t t in g s w it h in t h e c o mmu n it y. N ic k r egul ar l y v ol un t e e rs f o r Bu s in e s s Af t e r H o u rs a n d is a me mb e r o f t h e Pro p e l St e e rin g C om m i t t ee as w e ll. H e a ls o p la y s a v it a l ro le in ma k in g t h e H o lid a y Pa ra d e s u c h a s uc c es s by vo lu n t e e rin g h is t ime t h e d a y o f a n d s t a g in g f lo a t s . N ic k ’s d e d ic a t io n t o t he O s hk os h C h a mb e r e x e mp lif ie s t h e c o mmit me n t n e e d e d b y it s me mb e rs t o imp r o ve an al r eady pr os p e rin g o rg a n iz a t io n . B emis C ompany – Enterprise of the Year B e m is C o m p a n y co n t in u e s t o g r o w a n d p r o vid e o u r co m m u n it y w it h a sig n if ica n t a n d co n sist e n t a m o u n t o f n e w jo b s. H e a d q u a r t e r e d in N e e n a h , B e m is e m p lo ys n e a r ly 1 9 , 0 0 0 in d ivid u a ls in 7 4 m a n u f a ct u r in g f a cilit ie s in 11 co u n t r ie s a r o u n d t h e w o r ld . T h e ir m o st so p h ist ica t e d f le xib le p a cka g in g o p e r a t io n s a r e lo ca t e d in Osh ko sh , w h e r e t h e y cu r r e n t ly h a ve 6 f a cilit ie s. B e m is h a s o p e r a t e d in Osh ko sh f o r o ve r 3 0 ye a r s a n d co n t in u e s t o in ve st in e xp a n sio n o p p o r t u n it ie s in t h e co m m u n it y. I n 2 0 1 2 , B e m is r e p o r t e d n e t sa le s o f $ 5 . 1 b illio n . 10 NewsWave ̻ March 2013 November/December 2013 NewsWave ̻ www.oshkoshchamber.com 11 Chamber Clips Boost your sales at Business Expo 2014 Are you looking to boost your sales? Reserve your booth now at the 2014 Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce Business Expo. The Business Expo is scheduled for Thursday, January 30 at the Oshkosh Convention Center from 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Booths are $475. The theme for the Expo is “Rock ‘n’ Roll Your Business Brand.” Feeling creative? You can design your display to reflect the theme. Not mandatory, but encouraged. Afterwards until 7 p.m. will be Business After Hours. For more information and to reserve your booth please contact Megan Kok at 920.303.2265, ext. 16 or [email protected] Last chance to advertise in Profiles The Chamber is in the process of putting together its Profiles magazine. Advertising spaces are available for this publication that is distributed annually to more than 10,000 people and features member profiles in the areas of destinations, economic development, education, and health care. Profiles is circulated throughout the community at businesses, hotel rooms and other points of interest. It is also handed out to new residents in their welcome packets, and to EAA guests. Ribbon Cuttings For more information on advertising with the Chamber , in Profiles, please contact Kari Cassidy at kari@oshkoshchamber. com or 920-303-2265 ext. 20. Discover Northern Ireland with the Chamber Fox World Travel and the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce invite you to embark on a breathtaking cultural immersion into Northern Ireland September 26 to October 5, 2014. This trip is open to the public and will take you from the towering walls of Derry to the scenic views of the Causeway Coast and the Victorian architecture of Belfast. Upon booking the trip, Fox World Travel will donate $100 to the Oshkosh Chamber per person. Monetary donations often go toward day-to-day operations, donations to local charities, establishing scholarships and more. Security Finance 376 S. Koeller St. Tanzania Medi Spa 364 S. Koeller St. Photo by Megan Kok Photo by Megan Kok Creekview Rehabilitation Center at Evergreen 1130 N. Westfield St. Unveiling of the Tribal Heritage Crossing of the Wiouwash State Trail Butte des Morts Causeway This incredible trip is priced at $3,189 based on double occupancy, and includes motor coach transfers from pick up points, roung-trip flights, hotel accommodationsk and much more. Base coverage Travel Guard insurance is included in the price of your package. For more information about the trip, contact Jody Piotter at Fox World Travel at (920) 231-6000, ext. 1357 or [email protected]. Photo by Megan Kok Dawn Benish Schenck SC How long have you been an Ambassador? I have been an Ambassador for one year. Meet Your Ambassador Why did you choose to become an Ambassador? A fellow member recommended that I attend a meeting. I thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie within the group. Their passion and excitement for Oshkosh made me immediately want to be part of it. What do you enjoy about being an Ambassador? I really enjoy and am proud to be part of this special group of people. They make it fun to be a fellow Ambassador because they make people smile and are always willing to give an extra hand. The community business connections and friendships I have made are priceless. Oshkosh truly has amazing people and I feel very proud that I am part of this community. What are the benefits? There are numerous benefits of being an Oshkosh Chamber Ambassador. I have been given the opportunity to learn and understand the needs of our community. I meet new people, therefore, making great business connections, friendships and partnerships within the community. I am able to be part of the community excitement when a new business opens by joining them at their Ribbon Cuttings. I also feel like I am giving something back to the Chamber for all that they do for our community. 12 NewsWave ̻ November/December March 2013 2013 NewsWave ̻ www.oshkoshchamber.com 13 November: “re:TH!nking What Healthy Looks Like” November 6th Presented by : re:TH!NK/Winnebago’s Healthy Living Partnership November A.M. Oshkosh December Sales Club Sales Club 7:30 a.m. 7:30 a.m. November 12 December 10 “Meeting Management: We’ve Got to Stop Meeting Like This” Oshkosh Chamber building Oshkosh Chamber building November 26th The Hilton Garden Inn Presented by: FVTC A.M. Oshkosh A.M. Oshkosh 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. November 13 DecemberDecember: 11 "The National Labor Relations Act for Evergreen Brayton B&B the Private Sector Employer” 1130 N. Westfield St. 143 Church Ave. November 21 “The Importance of Professional Trade Show Displays” December 4th Social Hub: Twitter SocialPresented Hub: Pinterest "Legislative Updates and by: Image 360 7:30 a.m. 7:30 a.m. Employment Law – What is New and November 14 December 12 What is Coming?" “Becoming a Stress Master” Oshkosh Chamber building Oshkosh Chamber building January 16, 2014 December 19th Medical Program Business After Hours Presented by: Affinity Business AfterGroup HoursEmployee Assistance "Navigating the New Trends in 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Discrimination and ADA situations" All seminars are from 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Register online at November 26 December 17 at the Oshkosh Chamber. March 13, 2014 www.oshkoshchamber.com/events-calendarF Oshkosh Opera House The Waters Foundation, Inc. 1393 Washington Ave. Sign up online at 100 High Avenue www.oshkoshchamber.com Credit Card, ATM and POS Processing Services SMART BUSINESS SOLUTIONS Check Scanner 7:45-9:00 a.m. Evergreen 1130 N. Westfield Street Remember when honesty, integrity and service were everything? We never forgot. We strive to provide the highest quality, lowest cost solution while maintaining that personal touch unrivaled by larger companies. Wednesday, November 13 Terminal with Printer Retail and Hospitality POS We build bonds, not numbers. Visit our Showroom at: 1600 S. Main St. • Oshkosh, WI 54902 1-855-POS-ATMS • www.CornerstonePS.com SAM4s and Casio Cash Registers Coming Up Next Month Wednesday, December 11 7:45-9:00 a.m. Brayton Bed and Breakfast 143 Church Ave. Network Health Seminar Series 2013 All seminars are 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. at the Oshkosh Chamber free of charge. "re:TH!nking What Healthy Looks Like" November 6th Presented by : re:TH!NK/Winnebago’s Healthy Living Partnership What comes to mind when you think about a healthy community? Is it safe places for families to be active? Join re:TH!NK as we explain how you and your organization can be a part of transforming the Oshkosh area into a healthier community by finding solutions to some of the health-related problems we face. “Meeting Management: We’ve Got to Stop Meeting Like This” November 26th Presented by: FVTC Meetings have become a way of life in today’s work world and they don’t have to be a waste of time. This interactive training session shows how meetings wander off course and provides specific techniques for keeping them focused, getting participants involved and keeping goals on track. 2013 14 NewsWave ̻ November/December March 2013 “Importance of Professional Trade Show Displays” December 4th Presented by: Image 360 First impressions are vital!! You typically have only 3 to 5 seconds to grab someone's attention at the average trade show. With all the options available, learn what's currently hot and what's really important when it comes to a successful booth, graphics and overall profitable trade show experience. “Becoming a Stress Master” December 19th Presented by: Affinity Medical Group Employee Assistance Program This presentation defines stress and its sources in the workplace, gives practical tips on how to control stress and specifically addresses perceptions of stress and negative thinking. Welcomes Walter A. Koskinen, ctfa, cisp to our team of professional expert advisors Walter brings over 25 years of experience in Trusts, IRA’s, Investment Management Services, and Estate Planning The Reinhart team of professionals is dedicated to the philosophy of building plans and portfolios that are tailor-made to fit a client’s emotional make-up and allow them to meet their financial goals. Register for A.M. Oshkosh Phone (920) 303-2266 Online www.oshkoshchamber. Walter A. Koskinen Relationship Manager 920.230.2349 • [email protected] 2380 State Rd. 44, Suite A, Oshkosh, WI www.reinhart–partnersinc.com com/event-calendar/ The cost is $2 per event for Oshkosh Chamber members. NewsWave ̻ www.oshkoshchamber.com 15 Business After Hours Business Briefs The Wisconsin law firm of Davis & Kuelthau, s.c. announced Bradley D. Page as the firm’s next president. His term began October 1, 2013. Davis & Kuelthau, s.c. is also pleased to announce attorney William E. Fischer has joined the firm’s Corporate and Commercial Litigation Practice in its Oshkosh office. Link Computing Solutions has opened in Oshkosh at 900 W. 9th Avenue, in the former Jordy’s Beverage Mart location. Ray and Tina Reinders, owners of Link Computing Solutions, are excited to showcase the amazing transformation of the one hundred year old building into a modern and stylish high tech business. Link Computing Solutions offers a wide range of services for both personal computing and business applications, and is a Partner Direct Dealer for Dell computers. Mike Mauthe, principal of Lourdes Academy 6-12, received the Mary Ann Remick Leadership Program Research Design Award from the University of Notre Dame for creating the Lourdes Academy Way (LAW), the school’s honor code. Lourdes Academy also announced the following new hires: Carla Huizenga as events manager, Carolyn (Car) Hughes as supportive consultant/learning specialist, and Julie Ringlien as choir director. the CitizensFirst program, Next Gen, which promotes financial literacy among high school and college students. The winner will be announced on November 6th at the Credit Union Executive Society’s annual conference. #OshBAH Aquire Restoration, Inc is pleased to announce the addition of 2 new team members! Jerry Tzakais has been hired as a Senior Estimator, coming to Aquire with 5 years of property restoration experience. He is a HAAG certified roof inspector, a certified lead renovator, and holds 3 certifications with the IICRC: AMRT, WRT, and ASD. Aquire Restoration is also pleased to announce the addition of Eric Heitzman. Eric has almost a year of experience in the restoration industry and will be working as a lead technician at the Oshkosh office. Chanda Anderson Dr. Richard Ames of Insight Eye Care was awarded "Wisconsin Optometrist of the Year" at Caramel Crisp & Café the profession's annual conferences. The recipient Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group is pleased is nominated by colleagues and then selected by committo announce their Oshkosh office's August Chairman's tee of peers. This the highest honor given in the state for this Circle list: Chris Schultz, Cathy Bober, Paul Redemann, Lisa Kerprofession. Dr. Ames started his career in 1972 on Oregon Street rigan, Mark Vaccaro, Colleen Longworth, Paul Schmidt, Chris Neu in Oshkosh, and now practices at InSight Eye Care. and The Pawlosky Team - Cheryl and Charles Pawlosky Bryce Roth, director of marketing and social strategy at CitizensFirst Credit Union is one of five finalists who will be chosen to receive 2013 CUES Next Top Credit Union Executive Challenge. To earn his place as a finalist, Roth submitted Miles Kimball Company has changed its name to Silver Star Brands. The change to Silver Star Brands is in response to the evolving consumer demand of product diversity, and multi-channel marketing, Sponsored by The 9th annual Economic Outlook Breakfast Horizon Group Properties, Inc. is pleased to “If you’re not a part of welcome Traci Chisholm as the new Regional the Chamber you don’t get Marketing Director for The Outlet Shoppes. to meet all the people that are the She will be marketing four of the outlets’ decision makers for companies. seven locations, including Burlington, Honestly, I can’t think of a reason Washington; Fremont, Indiana; Getwhy a small business, or tysburg, Pennsylvania and Oshkosh, any business wouldn’t be a Wisconsin and will be located at the part of the Chamber. Oshkosh shopping center. 2014 Economic Outlook Breakfast, February 11 Tuesday, Nov. 26 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Grand Opera House 100 High Ave. Beverage Sponsors Register for BAH (920) 303-2266, www.oshkoshchamber.com/event-calendar/ $6 pre-registered, $7 at the door (Register by 1 p.m. the day of the event to receive the $6 rate) is scheduled for February 11, 2014. It features economist Brian Beaulieu who will review the status of our local and state economy for 2013 and provide his economic outlook for the future, along with providing a little bit of advice to individuals and business owners. Beaulieu, who comes to Oshkosh through the generous sponsorship of Ganther Construction/ Architecture, will interpret economic indicators to clarify a vision for the future on a national, regional and local level. Beaulieu’s presentation helps business leaders as they make decisions that affect the future of their company. Breakfast will begin at 7:30 a.m. at the Oshkosh Convention Center. The cost is $35 per person or $240 for a corporate table of eight. Reservations are required by February 4, 2013 by contacting Kari Cassidy at (920) 303-2265 ext. 20, or kari@ oshkoshchamber.com. Reservations can also be made on our website www.oshkoshchamber.com. Buying? Selling? Curious what’s happening in today’s changing Real Estate Market? My Team of Experienced Realtors are here to help with all your real estate needs. Call us today! Next Business After Hours Tuesday, December 17, 5:00 p.m.- 7:00 p.m. The Waters, 1393 Washington Avenue -Andy Beiser, Broker/Owner You Expect the Best. We Demand it. 16 NewsWave ̻ March 2013 November/December 2013 920-582-4011 www.BeiserRealty.com Hundreds of people listen to Beaulieu as he discusses the economic outlook. NewsWave ̻ www.oshkoshchamber.com 17 New Members CVS Main Tire & Maintenance Eiler Insurance Agency, LLC Rite-Way Welding LLC Pharmacies 1736 W. 9th Avenue, Oshkosh (920) 235-6664 Mr. Joel Cohen Insurance N3233 Searl Road, Brandon 208 State Street, Ste. 101, Oshkosh (920) 398-2370 Mr. David Eiler Forward Service Corporation Nonprofit Organizations 315 Algoma Blvd., Oshkosh (920) 232-9219 Ms. Sarah Holewinski Lotnix, LLC Investments 404 N. Main Street, Ste. 606, Oshkosh (920) 267-7768 Mr. Jon Dudzinski You can stay at home and still get the finest care anywhere. You. First. Just as it should be. You’ve always had great healthcare from ThedaCare. Now, it’s even better. As a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, ThedaCare has joined forces with Mayo Clinic to give you more peace of mind. When complex medical issues arise, our care team can connect with Mayo Clinic about your care and share their expertise with you, here, with the goal of keeping you at home. For you, that could mean no tension-filled road trips. No lugging of medical records. No waiting on pins and needles. And, more dinners at home. You. First. ThedaCare.org/mayo Automobile Repair/Service 1121 E. Main Street, Omro (920) 685-5553 Mr. Jerry Hitchcock Welding 45 W. 6th Avenue, Oshkosh (920) 279-2070 Ms. Nicole Hariu Sure-Dry Basement Systems Waterproofing Contractors 754 W. Airport Road, Menasha (920) 299-5240 Mr. Ryan Weyers Tanzania Medi Spa Spas - Beauty 310 Jefferson Avenue, Omro 364 S. Koeller Street, Oshkosh (920) 235-9541 John & Esther Horan Ask the Expert Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce/Network Health Submitted by Jeff Schmidt, Executive Vice President at Sparque 2013 holiday parade It’s time to get into the holiday spirit. Bring your family and friends to the 2013 Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce/Network Holiday Parade Thursday, November 14 at 6:30 p.m. in downtown Oshkosh. This year, the parade will begin at the intersection of Ceape Avenue and Main Street. The parade theme is“Winter Snow Sports.” Darryl Sims, Director of Athletic Services at UW Oshkosh will serve as grand marshall. We would like to thank our sponsors for generously supporting this year’s holiday parade. The major sponsors are: Network Health, the Downtown Business Improvement District (BID), the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation, Strategic Fundraising and Bank First National. Other sponsors include: Beck’s Meats, Davis Child Care, 4imprint, Bergstrom Honda, Horicon Bank, Miron Construction, Outlet Shoppes, CR Meyer & Sons, Choice Bank, Fletcher Chiropractic Office, Silver Star Brands, Pepsi, Westside Association, Capital Credit Union, Midwest Real Estate, Festival Foods, Planeview Travel, Southwest Rotary, The Roxy, Winnebago County Historical Society, Rhyme, Cellcom, Marvel Manufacturing & Hydrite Chemical. Also, thanks to the Oshkosh Northwestern, ALC Printing, Glass Nickel, Cumulus and Oshkosh Community Media Services. Bring your family and friends! We hope to see you there! For more information, please contact Megan Kok at (920)303-2265, ext. 16, or [email protected]. Valuable resources for your business and personal banking needs. October 30, 1935 - Dayton Ohio. Military members gathered for what the Defense Department called a “live demonstration” of the capabilities of the next generation bomber. In short, they were “shopping” and had invited manufacturers to come “pitch” them. Boeing Corporation was among those seeking the contract. For many, inviting others was a mere formality - Boeing’s new Model 299 would be the hands down winner. A reporter from Seattle called the plane a “Flying Fortress.” It could carry five times the number of bombs that army specifications called for. It flew faster than previous bombers, and nearly twice as far. The plane taxied onto the runway, an impressive 103-foot wingspan with four engines – it was a magnificent beast in motion. Major Ployer P. Hill pushed the throttle levers forward. Speed increased, the plane lifted off the runway climbing to just past 300 feet. It stalled, slouched to the right, and came crashing down in a fiery mess. Two of the five crew members died, including Major Hill. The investigation revealed nothing mechanical had gone wrong. Pilot error was cited as the reason for the crash. Major Hill forgot to release the locking mechanism on the rudder and elevator controls during takeoff. This error caused the Army to go with a much simpler design by Douglas, and considered the Boeing plane too difficult for any pilot to fly. Boeing nearly went bankrupt. A group of test pilots were brought in to solve the problem. Given the complexity of the aircraft they decided on a simple approach: the pilot’s checklist. Atul Gawande, in his book The Checklist Manifesto, credits this story as the origin of “the checklist.” At Bank First, our team is focused on understanding your financial needs and creating customized solutions that work best for you. We work hard to meet and exceed the needs of our customers. Come discover how banking is better at Bank First! 101 City Center, Oshkosh 920-237-5126 BELLEVUE | ASHWAUBENON | MANITOWOC TWO RIVERS | MISHICOT | FRANCIS CREEK ST. NAZIANZ | KIEL | PLYMOUTH | SHEBOYGAN Member FDIC The test pilots made their list simple, brief, and to the point - short enough to fit on an index card. Step-by-step lists for taxi, takeoff, in-flight, and landing. The checklists contained “the stuff ” all pilots knew how to do; check that brakes are released, set instruments, altimeter, make sure doors and windows are closed and locked, elevator trim and rudder controls unlocked. It was silly, easy stuff. With these checklists in hand, pilots went on to fly the Boeing Model 299 a total of 1.8 million miles without a single accident. The Army ultimately ordered nearly thirteen thousand of the aircraft. Today, the Model 299 is known as the infamous B-17. Because flying the behemoth was now possible, complexity made simple by a checklist, the B-17 now has a prominent place in our history books. What does flying a B-17 have to do with selling? Selling today is far more complex. Channels of communication are exploding; information access is beyond our ability to contain. Just as flying a plane is both as fundamental and yet much more complex and Stop Making Stupid Mistakes complicated than when Wilbur and Orville -or Boeing, for that matter--first took flight – selling today requires the same attention to minute details. Sales people need a system to remind them of the basics and simplify the complexity of the sales process. My lifelong friend Geoff Oswalt is a Senior International Jet Pilot for Johnson Controls. Geoff flies executives around the world in a Challenger 300 made by Bombardier. In preparing to write this article I asked Geoff if he still uses checklists. He was somewhat shocked by my question, “Of course we do. Technology has changed; instead of reading them off a knee board, we push a button and the voice command walks us through each step of the checklist.” “You’ve been doing this for over 30 years,” I said, “why are you still using checklists?” Geoff responded with crystal clear simplicity, “So we don’t make a mistake.” If you’re like me, you’ve walked away from more than a few meetings with clients, and said, “Darn it, why didn’t I remember to...” A checklist helps prevent that. Because checklists are so important in a variety of professions from flying planes to performing brain surgery, you can easily find or create checklists for your sales process. Chris Lytle and I created the Pre-Contact Checklist. Critical things you should do, prior to having ANY contact with a client or prospect. We also have a Pre-Meeting Checklist, Proposal Writing Checklist, Top 10 Prospect Hit List, and more. Download a free copy of the Pre-Contact Checklist from our website: http://sparque.biz/precontactchecklist/ Most people start in sales because something else didn’t work out - you end up in sales, Jeff Schmidt accidentally. Successful sales people know – staying and succeeding in sales, is no accident. Professional sellers use a consistent repeatable process. Without a consistent repeatable process you leave the outcome to chance or to the effectiveness of your memory on any given day. Consistent sales success demands a consistent sales process, and consistency for complex as well as simple tasks, requires a checklist. To this day (despite thousands of hours flying) my friend Geoff uses a checklist to avoid mistakes. Chris Lytle and I use checklists for writing articles, for doing seminars, and for training creation. We leave nothing to “chance”. Checklists simplify the complex, remind you of the basics, and help you avoid mistakes, and inevitably, help you make more sales. Think Big Make Big Things Happen Jeff Schmidt is EVP and Partner with Chris Lytle at Sparque, Inc. You can reach him at, [email protected]. Other ways to connect: Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeffreyASchmidt LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/schmidtjeffrey/ Board of Directors October marked the beginning of Mike Floyd’s term as Oshkosh Chamber Chairman of the Board. Mike is the President of Continental Girbau, Inc. He will be supported by the best business leaders in Oshkosh. Below is a list of the 2014 Board of Directors. Robert Albright – R.J. Albright Inc. Chanda Anderson – Caramel Crisp & Café John Anderson – InSight Eye Care, LLC Ken Arneson – Evergreen* Jeffrey Bard – Aurora Medical Center & Aurora Medical Group Tom Belter – BMO Harris Bank N.A.* Kent Belville – Belville Associates Chiropractic Clinic Allen Bergles – Morton Safety** Tom Blaze – Oshkosh Community YMCA John Casper – Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce* John Daggett – Oshkosh Corporation Hallie Detjen – Impromed, LLC Jon Doemel – Glass Nickel Pizza Co. Connie Drexler – Westside Association** Mike Floyd – Continental Girbau, Inc.* Stephen Ford – Lapham-Hickey Steel A Unique Employment Resource Vocational Support Services of Goodwill NCW Submitted by: Emily Wagner, Goodwill Industries In today’s economy, finding a reliable, dedicated, and motivated employee is challenging. Hiring an individual who comes to work proud and has a smile on their face is a rarity. This is particularly true for entrylevel positions. Vocational Support Services of Goodwill NCW strives to address this specific concern. This community resource is free of charge, candidates are pre-screened, and they get on-going support to ensure a successful long-term relationship. The Vocational Support Services office (VSS) works with individuals in our community who need assistance to find meaningful employment. They are all contributing members of Oshkosh and the Fox Valley area working on polishing their resumes and practicing interview skills to land the right job. The trait they all share is a deep desire to work hard and have a job where they can feel a sense of accomplishment and support themselves. At VSS, we have successfully placed our clients in diverse employment settings, and our top priority is to find a good fit for the employer and employee. These individuals do not want special consideration or lower standards. They expect to be held to the same criteria as any other employee on your team. They often fit in 22 NewsWave ̻ November/December March 2013 2013 Brad Hunter – Belville & Associates Chiropractic Clinic** Phil Janes – Oshkosh Marine Supply Co. Joe LeRoy – Stannard Dry Cleaners and Launderers* James Macy – Davis & Kuelthau, S.C. Sandy Martin – Green3 Rodney Oilschlager – Midwest Real Estate Development Co., Inc. Jeff Schmidt – Sparque, Inc.** Steven Schmudlach – Fox Valley Savings Bank David Seekings – 4imprint Scott Sitter – Choice Bank Scott Stielow – Bergstrom Honda-Nissan-Subaru of Oshkosh Andy Storm – Oshkosh Corporation (Leadership Oshkosh) William Tallon – University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Vicki Updike – Silver Star Brands* Paul Verbeten – Perfecseal, Inc. – A Bemis Company Brian Wierzbinski – EAA* Wayne Youngwirth – Youngwirth Associates, LLC * Executive Committee ** Chamber Affiliate or Ex-Officio administrative roles, maintenance/custodial duties, or assembly jobs that are basic and repetitive. Creating partnerships and collaborations while helping businesses meet their bottom line is important to the work we do at VSS of Goodwill Industries. Several Oshkosh community organizations have already reached out and utilized our program in order to employ trustworthy employees. Rogan’s shoe store wrote a testimony of their positive experience: "We started working with VSS in 1995 at our Oshkosh location, we now utilize VSS in all of our stores from Oshkosh to Appleton. Many of the wonderful employees VSS has brought to us over the years have stayed on staff longer than most other employees. When Andrea decided to retire from the Oshkosh location there was no doubt that we needed someone from VSS to continue on the job Andrea started. Piper has been a wonderful new addition to the store." -Nicole Kilsdonk, Rogan's Shoes Vocational Support Services is a winning collaboration that leaves a positive mark in the workplace. For further information please contact Job Developer, Emily Wagner at 920-968-6877 or by email [email protected]. Member Spotlight Wisconsin Vision 1510 S. Koeller St. Oshkosh, WI 54902 www.wisconsinvision.com W isconsin Vision specializes in excellent eye care and great service in the Oshkosh area. As of today, they are the largest independently owned and operated optical provider in Wisconsin. They provide many services including comprehensive eye exams, cataract evaluations, pre and postoperative care, and visual field screenings. All examinations are performed by a licensed doctor of optometry with their state of the art equipment and technology. “I think my favorite thing about working here is communicating with patients, and helping them pick out the best eye wear for their lifestyle,” Office Manager Jessica Colton said. “It also gives me a chance to work with fashion, with all the different lines of designer eye wear available in the marketplace.” Wisconsin Vision has over 1,800 frames available at every location, as well as a large selection of contact lenses from many manufacturers. “Wisconsin Vision is different from other eye care places because our opticians are nationally certified by the American Board of Opticianry,” Colton said. The company, owned by Paul George, celebrated its 35th anniversary in 2012. Darren Horndasch serves as the CEO. Colton said that being a part of the Chamber has given them the chance to establish networking in the Oshkosh area through advertising and events such as “Business After Hours.” “Having the recognition that we’re a part of the Chamber makes a big difference in how customers can view our center,” Colton said. “People come in with gift certificates from the Chamber often.” To expand their customer base, Wisconsin Vision has taken on new marketing and advertising directions. Recently, you may have seen their commercials airing in the Fox Valley area. They feature spokesman Danny Gokey, Season 8 American Idol finalist and Milwaukee Native, and Josie, the dog. Colton said that they will expand and grow over the next 5 to 10 years, so more people in the Oshkosh area will recognize them. Their mission is to provide the most current selection of product frames and lenses. In addition, their commitment is to provide our patients with exceptional and memorable service no matter which of our optical centers are visited. Finally, a commitment to value and selection by offering basic to high fashion designer products in many different prices ranges to meet every need and every budget. Colton has been working at Wisconsin Vision since 1999, and became the office manager of the Oshkosh location in 2005. They have four employees, including the optometrist, Dr. Greg Hubertus who works in the Appleton and Oshkosh offices. Jessica Olson, Dr. Greg Hubertus & Sarah Pinkall are the friendly faces that greet you at Wisconsin Vision. NewsWave ̻ www.oshkoshchamber.com 23 Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce 120 Jackson Street Oshkosh, WI 54901