Chamber Newsletter - September 2023 | |
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Chamber Chat with Amanda
The 2nd annual Trail of Terror is approaching quickly! Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 28th, when this spine-tingling event will come to life from 5 pm to 8 pm. Participants will dare to traverse the Trail of Terror (Foundation Trail) and plunge into a night of hair-raising thrills!
We're currently seeking a few more Scare Stations to intensify the terror. Dedicate approximately 5 hours of your evening, from 4 pm to 9 pm, and unleash your bone-chilling creativity on the Trail of Terror's daring attendees. Additionally, we're in search of dedicated volunteers to assist at the trail's start and finish and help manage parking. If you're interested in hosting a scare station or volunteering for this event, please contact the Chamber by calling 715-284-4658 or email chamber@blackrivercountry.net.
Our excitement knows no bounds as we prepare to once again host the Trail of Terror this year! Brace yourself for a night of spine-tingling delight that will leave an unforgettable mark.
For more information on the Trail of Terror visit - https://www.blackrivercountry.net/trail-of-terror/
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Jackson County Community Survey | |
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We are pleased to announce an important step towards shaping a brighter future for Jackson County through the launch of an in-depth survey and request for your active participation in the development of our comprehensive plan.
Jackson County is committed to supporting our communities, and to facilitate this growth, we are initiating a detailed survey designed to capture the diverse perspectives, hopes, and concerns of our residents, businesses, and stakeholders. This survey serves as a foundation for building a Comprehensive Plan that reflects our collective vision for the years to come.
Key objectives of the survey include:
1. Participation: We are committed to ensuring that every voice in our community is heard. The survey is open to all, providing an opportunity for residents, local leaders, businesses, and organizations to contribute their insights, goals and ideas.
2. Understanding: The survey will delve into a wide range of topics, including housing, transportation, economic development, child care, education, environmental sustainability, and planned growth.
3. Our Future: This Survey and the resulting plan will address both the current challenges and those that lie ahead. The insights collected through the survey will guide our strategic decisions in pursuit of planned growth, a sustainable future and a better Jackson County for our children and grandchildren.
If you are interested in helping out - please click on the link below to access the survey or scan the QR code!
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Jackson County Justice Center Project | |
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The Sheriff's Office will be hosting open public meetings regarding our work to determine the best, most fiscally sound, option for addressing concerns with the current jail. We are excited to share the options proposed as it will provide a safer environment for the public, staff, and inmates.
Please join us for the the meetings pictured in this post. They will be held on Thursdays, at 6:30 PM, across the county.
If you have any questions or are looking for further information, please visit - https://www.jacksoncountyprojects.com/
The link can also be located through the Jackson County homepage https://www.co.jackson.wi.us/
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Take the 7 Rivers Alliance Speed Test | |
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One of the challenges we have in our region – particularly in our rural parts – is a lack of high speed or broadband internet access. That issue became very clear during the early months of the pandemic when students were unable to connect to schools from home.
The Federal Communications Commission in 2015 set the minimum broadband speed standard as 25 megabits per second for downloading files and 3 megabits per second for uploading. The FCC says 26.4% of rural American lack broadband access compared to 1% for urban Americans.
The 7 Rivers Alliance has partnered with the eight other Wisconsin Regional Economic Development Organizations and Regional Plan Commissions to form a strategic partnership to help bring reliable broadband to the most unserved and underserved parts of the state.
This collaborative effort will promote regional broadband speed testing, a crowdsourced internet speed test implemented by GEO Partners, a Minnesota-based company that focuses on enabling cost effective planning and deployment of broadband. Access to this technology was made possible through a grant from Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), together with a pilot program supervised by New North's Region of Economic Development, funded in part by a grant from the Economic Development Authority (EDA).
Citizen’s National Broadband Map recently added Wisconsin to its expanding list of 16 state participants.
7 Rivers Alliance will work with our regional partners at the county and local level to provide training and access to the mapping data. We will also encourage as many folks as possible to take the speed test.
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Menu Guides Available
2023 Black River Area Menu Guides are available! If you would like some for your business or lodging facility, stop in our office and pick them up or give us a call and we can drop them off for you!
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Thank you to everyone that submitted photos for our annual photo contest. We received over 100 entries! Congratulations to the winners:
1st place - Lost Falls by Brian Thompson
2nd place - East Arbutus by CS Wipfli
3rd place - Wazee Lake by Diana Laufenberg
These photos will be used on the cover of the 2024 Visitor's Guide!
| 1st place photo - Lost Falls by Brian Thompson | 2nd place - East Arbutus by CS Wipfli | 3rd place - Wazee Lake by Diana Laufenberg | |
2023 Black River Country Visitor Guide
We still have some of the 2023 Black River Country Visitor Guides available. Stop in at the Chamber office to pick them up or give us a call and we will deliver them to you.
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Free Ad in the Weekly E-Newsletter for all Chamber Members
We are once again offering a free ad in the weekly e-newsletter to all Chamber Members in 2023. We would like to help promote your business as much as we can in 2023 with a free ad. We will insert the ad into the weekly e-newsletter and we will schedule a Facebook post on our page with your ad too. Just send your ad to: chamber@blackrivercountry.net and let us know when you'd like us to run it in the weekly e-newsletter. Ad sizes are 8.5x11. Please let us know if you have any questions!
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Member Job Postings
If your business or organization is hiring, send us information and we will get it added to the member job postings section on our website.
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Events and Press Releases to Share
Please send us information on any upcoming events your business or organization is hosting. We will get them posted to the calendar on our website and in the printed calendar we distribute at our office. We also share many different events on our Facebook page!
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Brochures, Rack Cards and Business Cards
Make sure to drop off a supply of your brochures, rack cards and business cards at the Chamber office. Help us help your business by passing along information to both our out-of-town visitors and to local residents who come to the Chamber. If you can't make it to the office, give us a call at 715-284-4658 and we will gladly pick them up at your business!
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Proud Member Logo
Being a part of the Black River Area Chamber of Commerce means being part of a thriving, innovative and collaborative business community. Your membership brings credibility to your business and increases positive perceptions among consumers and fellow business professionals. We welcome you to increase your visibility in the community with the Proud Member Logo!
You can save a copy of the digital 2023 Proud Member logo by clicking on the image below. You can place it on your website with a link to the Black River Area Chamber website www.blackrivercountry.net. You can also print a copy to display at your place of business.
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September Business After 5
Thank you to Cell.Plus/UScellular for hosting the September Business After 5 event on Wednesday, September 13th. Attendees enjoyed the tailgate food, beverages, giveaway items and door prizes. It was a great night of networking and socializing.
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Cell.Plus staff - Sara Baker, Mackenzie Borek, Manager Nancy Stevens, Owner Andy Kamla, Ashlee Koebler and Stevie Delker | |
Door prizes and giveaway items | |
Networking and making connections | |
Join us for the next Business After 5 event at Falls Florist on October 11th! | |
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Alzheimer's Association Walk To End Alzheimer's® Black River Falls Presented by Ho-Chunk Nation Anticipated to Raise more than $30,000
Participants from across the Black River Falls area took part in this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Black River Falls presented by Ho-Chunk Nation at Field of Honor Veterans Park on September 17. The Walk, which was chaired by Mary Gerdes of WWIS Radio, is anticipated to raise more than $30,000 to fund research and local services in Black River Falls and surrounding areas, including support groups, education, information and referral services, care and support, advocacy efforts and a 24/7 Helpline – 800.272.3900.
“The FDA’s recent approval of the first-ever treatment proven to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s is a monumental step forward in our fight against the disease,” said David Grams, Executive Director, Alzheimer’s Association Wisconsin Chapter. “The Walk to End Alzheimer’s plays a critical role in helping us advance our cause and provides hope of a future with additional treatments for all those who are impacted.”
More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In Wisconsin, there are more than 120,000 people living with the disease and 191,000 serving as caregivers.
Donations can still be made to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s through December 31 at act.alz.org/blackriverfalls. Mail-in donations should be directed to the regional mail-processing hub:
Alzheimer's Association
Attn: WTEA Black River Falls, WI
12701 Whitewater Drive, Suite 290
Minnetonka, MN 55343
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Representatives from Presenting Sponsor Ho Chunk Nation and Walk to End Alzheimer's committee members | |
Group photo of participants and volunteers | |
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As a Family Legacy Ends, Ownership of WWIS Radio becomes Local
It all began in a 10x50 mobile home, with a 207 foot tower in 1958. WWIS Radio first went on the air on AM1260 on Saturday, August 23, 1958 from the Grandstand of the Jackson County Fair and was the first radio station in the county.
According to an article written by the late Betty Epstein for the Banner Journal, Harley Samuels of Marshfield and president of the Clarkwood Broadcasting Corp. stated it would be the first station in Wisconsin, and possible in the country, to be housed in a mobile home. The home of WWIS Radio at that time housed a studio 10x12 ft and stored 15,000 recordings according to Walter Boller, then general manager, chief engineer and announcer. Arlie Davison was program manager, and Robert Benedict was announcer-salesman. The reception area was 10x16 ft. and operated by Mrs. Clarence Williams.
From a small AM station in a trailer house in Brockway, to adding 99.7 FM and a translated version of AM1260 to the FM dial on 105.3, one thing has remained the same. The local, community station vibe. Whether you tune into the Buyline in the morning, or a high school game at night, you know the faces and names of the staff of WWIS Radio.
WWIS Radio Inc has been the area’s local community radio station for 65 years, and has created well known personalities including; Nelson Lent, Dick Deno, Josh Donavan, Tony Hart, Gabby Gabrielson and Mary Gerdes to name a few.
In 1968, Robert and Dorothy Smith fell in love with the Black River Falls area and purchased the station. When Robert and Dorothy passed, the business stayed in the Smith Family, and Dan Smith of Minnesota took ownership in 2019. The station was owned by the Smith Family for over 55 years.
Three locations, and three stations. That’s pretty incredible! Clarkwood Broadcasting, Marianne McDonald, the Smith Family and now “G&G Media Services LLC” will become the owners of this bit of the community and history of the Black River Country. G&G Media Services, LLC. Is made up of partners, Mary & Tom Gerdes and Robert “Gabby” & Cheryl Gabrielson.
Over the years, Robert Smith’s family stated that if they were to ever sell the station, they would want to offer it to the employees first. Dan Smith, in keeping with his father’s wishes, approached Mary and Gabby in early May, as he had made the decision to transition out the of the station’s ownership. With little hesitation, negotiations began, and in August, G&G Media Services LLC. was born. An offer for the purchase of the station, located on Town Creek Road, outside of Black River Falls was accepted in August.
Mary and Tom, along with Gabby and Cheryl are excited to bring the ownership of the station locally and look forward to continuing to work with clients and listeners, to bring a product we can all be proud of. Gerdes states “We don’t really plan on changing a lot. Bob Smith definitely had a good thing going, and we would like to continue to make him proud as he looks down on us, just as his son Dan has.”
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Gabby & Cheryl Gabrielson, Dan Smith, and Tom & Mary Gerdes | |
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Aptiv Secures $244,378 Grant from Wisconsin Department of Health Services to Spearhead Technological Transformation For Services to Support People With Disabilities
In a stride towards innovation, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has awarded Aptiv with a grant of $244,378. This substantial investment is a testament to Aptiv's commitment to reimagine the landscape of support services for people with disabilities. The funding allows Aptiv to apply the potential of technology to support people with disabilities across homes, workplaces, and communities.
This grant is part of a statewide effort to improve Medicaid home and community-based services that help older adults and people with disabilities. A total of $12.75 million is being awarded to 91 organizations statewide during this round of funding.
"Technology First" is a term that defines the integration of technology for progressive shifts in how supportive services are evolving, fostering more support for individuals. However, Aptiv envisions a future where technology leads with every facet of support planning.
The driving force behind this initiative is a multi-pronged vision. With this grant, Aptiv is prepared to research a plan that will provide the most up-to-date technological accommodations, providing multiple advantages for participants they support and dedicated staff throughout their service areas in Wisconsin. By integrating advanced technological applications, many opportunities expand for those using Aptiv services, empowering them to nurture skills and foster independence within their homes and workplaces.
Technology can be a strong equalizer, leveling the playing field by addressing issues of equity and access. Aptiv’s commitment to an increased focus on technology enables personalized support, catering to various learning styles and bringing inclusivity to the forefront. The ripple effects of this tech-enabled approach are far-reaching – from bolstering self-esteem to nurturing empowerment, a variety of positive outcomes come to life.
As technology continues bridging geographical and cultural gaps, Aptiv uses innovation to provide all-encompassing opportunities. Through this grant, the organization expands a pathway to empowerment for individuals with disabilities, regardless of their diverse backgrounds.
“The grant dollars we've received from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services represent more than mere funds; they symbolize hope and potential," Aptiv President and CEO Jenny Felty expresses. "Our project isn't just about technological integration; it's about making enduring, positive change in the lives of people with disabilities," Felty asserts. "We envision a future where the combination of technology and compassion results in tangible improvements for individuals’ households, workplaces, and neighborhoods, fostering independence and enriching lives."
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Photo by Andrea Kyser/Banner Journal
A ribbon cutting was held on Friday, September 1st at Dempsey Law Firm, LLP located at 132 Main Street in downtown Black River Falls. Those in attendance were (l-r): Kathy Kopp, Amanda Gunn, Jane Tande, Joe Williams, Melissa Lechner, Heath Mynsberge (Managing Partner), Chris Penza (attorney), Brianne Massman, Andrea Durst and Casey Brown.
Since its establishment in 1849, Dempsey Law Firm, LLP, has remained steadfast in its commitment to delivering top-tier legal services at equitable rates to its clients. As one of Wisconsin's longest-standing law firms, Dempsey Law Firm is well-prepared for the future. After more than a century in Oshkosh, the firm has expanded its presence to five different cities through strategic mergers with various established and highly esteemed law firms across the state of Wisconsin. With an expanded professional and administrative staff, Dempsey Law Firm can now provide clients with the resources typically associated with larger law firms in metropolitan areas while retaining the personal touch reminiscent of smaller, community-based practices. Through these mergers, Dempsey Law Firm eagerly anticipates the next 150 years of assisting its clients in finding effective solutions, serving communities in Oshkosh, Fond du Lac, Appleton, Wausau, Black River Falls, and Green Bay.
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Photo by Jack Ikhtiari
A ribbon cutting was held Saturday, September 9th at the Spring Creek Schoolhouse Museum Open House. Those in attendance included Historical Society Board Members, Schoolhouse Restoration Committee members, Chamber Ambassadors and Spring Creek School Alumni members.
The open house consisted of alumni interviews, tours, historic displays, a flag raising ceremony and delicious cake! The event truly honored the history of early education in Jackson County. If you would like to tour the schoolhouse, contact the Jackson County Historical Society at 715-284-5314.
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Please Join Us for Two Upcoming Ribbon Cuttings |
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Saturday, September 30th - 11am:
The Yoga Studio Black River Falls grand opening celebration located at 449 N Water St, Black River Falls.
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Saturday, October 21st - 11am:
Creekside Kennels & Shop grand opening celebration of their new addition located at N3522 Dodge Rd, Black River Falls.
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Wisconsin ATV Association Survey | |
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The Wisconsin ATV/UTV Association (WATVA) is running a very important economic impact survey. They are seeking help on understanding the current economic impact of the sport to Wisconsin. The information gathered from this survey will be analyzed by a professional economist. The final report will be published for free and shared with industry partners.
This information helps support the need for the ATV / UTV industry in Wisconsin. Please, if you have some spare time, take the survey! It's anonymous and you won't end up on any mailing list. Already took the survey on paper? No need to retake it on the web, it's the same survey! Only one per household please.
For questions or more information, please contact WATVA at 920-694-0583 or info@watva.org.
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Dementia Friendly Community Initiatives of Jackson County | |
Dear Community Member,
As the number of people living with dementia continues to rise, and is projected to grow exponentially over the next thirty years, the Department of Health Services (DHS) has developed a statewide initiative to make Wisconsin as Dementia Friendly as possible. A Dementia friendly community is one that builds infrastructure to support and take responsibility for enhancing the beneficial effect of services for those living with dementia and their caregivers. This can be accomplished through promoting the awareness that a dementia diagnosis does not mean the person affected can no longer continue with their daily activities. In fact, studies have shown that people with dementia want to continue to be a part of their community, enjoy their regular daily lives and maneuver around their community safely and conveniently.
Community members in Jackson County have joined forces to provide this education, support and outreach to area businesses to enhance the support of those with Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in our community. For the convenience and efficiency of your business, training takes approximately thirty minutes. The trainer will travel to the location of your choosing, provide all materials, conduct a verbal presentation and answer questions. The information provided will outline what Dementia is, how to recognize it, why being a dementia-friendly business fits into the larger picture of a dementia-friendly community and how to better serve a person who may be suffering a symptom associated with the disease. Our program can enhance your company’s policies and procedures.
We recommend that at least 50% of the staff are trained, which includes managers. Going forward, we request that new employees receive the training as part of their orientation process. After completion of initial training, you will receive the “Purple Angel” window cling (pictured above) and the Dementia Friendly Toolkit for use in the orientation process. The toolkit is provided by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services and can be viewed at https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/dementia/communities.htm. We recommend applying the symbol to all entrances so that customers can identify the business as a safe and supportive environment.
Training is always FREE. There will be no cost to you or your business at any time. We also will not ask for money at any time. Please contact Emily Reitz, the Jackson County Dementia Specialist, to set up your training. She can be reached by phone at 715-284-3978. You can also email ADRCJC@co.jackson.wi.us.
A dementia friendly community is a place where it is possible for the greatest number of people with Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease to live a good, enriching life. Together we can make Jackson County that community!
We look forward to working with you in the future!
The Jackson County Dementia Friendly Coalition
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Wisconsin Fast Forward Grant Program | |
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The Department of Workforce Development's Office of Skills Development (OSD) is again accepting applications for the Wisconsin Fast Forward (WFF) grant program.
They have redesigned grant offerings into a single grant opportunity, "Industry Sectors Worker Training Grants." This grant program is designed to help fund the development of innovative and collaborative customized worker training programs.
Key features of this grant program:
- Grants are available to all industry sectors and companies of any size;
- Grant award amounts range from $5,000 to $400,000; a consortium of placement partners with a lead public or private organization serving as the applicant may apply for more than $400,000.
- Cash or in-kind match equal to 50% of the grant award amount is required;
- Grantee must complete training of at least 85% of the contracted number of trainees; and
- At least 65% of trainees must be placed in positions with the placement partner(s) identified in the grant application that require the skills taught in the provided training; and
- At least 75% of incumbent trainees receive increased wages.
Applications are due by 3 p.m. CST on Tuesday, November 7, 2023
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7 Rivers Alliance Updates | |
U.S. Small Business Administration | |
Created in 1953, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) helps small business owners and entrepreneurs pursue the American dream. The SBA is the only cabinet-level federal agency fully dedicated to small business and provides counseling, capital, and contracting expertise as the nation’s only go-to resource and voice for small businesses.
The SCORE chapter that services the western and north central region of WI has a number of different mentors that have expertise in certain areas of business (marketing, social media, bookkeeping, etc). Additionally, SCORE mentors can help a business owner update or create a business plan. Learn more at https://centralwisconsin.score.org/.
Area Contact -
Lisa Taylor
Outreach and Marketing Specialist
Wisconsin District Office
U.S. Small Business Administration
Cell: (202) 407-3299
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2023 Business After 5 Schedule | |
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October 11: Falls Florist
November 8: Reflections On Water
December 6: Chamber Holiday Party
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2023 Chamber Board of Directors | |
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President - Justin Dougherty, Dynamic Audio & Video LLC
Vice President - Jack Taylor, Taylor Media
Treasurer - Jordan Nortman, Coldwell Banker River Valley, Realtors®
Secretary - Brianne Massman, #WillPProject
Board Members
Keith Brown, Clearview Realty
Crystal Byrns, Wal-Mart
Miranda Chandler, Co-op Credit Union
Bill Laurent, Jackson County Board Rep
Melissa Lechner, Security Financial Bank
Laura Lindow, Reflections on Water
Dana Olson, Black River Country Bank
Melissa Porter, Ho-Chunk Nation Representative
Nichole Sullivan, School District of Black River Falls
Jane Tande, Keller Williams Realty
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Black River Area Chamber of Commerce
120 N Water St
Black River Falls, WI 54615
715-284-4658
www.blackrivercountry.net
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