Taste of Portage Market Fair recap
Great food from 12 food vendors, live music from Best Practice and Copper Box and 3D chalk art were some highlights of this year's event, which also featured craft vendors, kid’s activities, shop sales and a classic car and truck show.
The event, held at Market Square, drew a record 144 classic automobiles, doubling last year's tally. Craft vendors displayed their wares behind Wilz Hometown Pharmacy. And food was the center of attention with all the delicious dishes served at Market Square!
Thank you to all the sponsors, vendors and volunteers!!
We'll see you next year on August 25 & August 26, 2023!!
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Thanks to Portage Archery
Brad Conrad of the Portage Area Chamber of Commerce presented a check to the Portage Archery representing the proceeds from the car show at the Taste of Portage.
Each year, this organization helps with car registration and coordination on the day of the Taste of Portage Car Show.
We thank them for all the help and look forward to seeing them next year!
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Canoes on display through mid-September
Canoes on Parade will be on display through the mid-part of this month then return in Spring 2023. You still have a bit of time to see them yet before they go into hibernation.
Come see the upright canoes painted with various themes by local artists. Nine fiberglass canoes are up around Portage. Locals and visitors alike can stand in front of the upright canoes -- creating a close resemblance to portaging a canoe -- and pose for pictures, then share them on social media.
Click Here to view the map locations of the colorful canoes.
The canoe project is being sponsored by the City of Portage Tourism Commission and coordinated by the Portage Area Chamber of Commerce. More details at www.portagewi.com.
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Business Luncheon -Tuesday, September 6
The Portage Area Chamber of Commerce is offering another way to network with your fellow Chamber members and make those important connections that can help you in your business or career. Bring your business cards, brochures, or anything you wish to share with other members.
Luncheon Information:
Our topic is Grief In the Workplace, Tips for Supporting Grieving Employees. Come learn practical tips for how you can appropriately and compassionately support employees who are grieving a death. Presented by Agrace Staff: Claire O’Dea and Bobbie Coons
Location: Portage Public Library
Time: Lunch at 11:30AM, Presentation at Noon
Cost: $10 at the door for lunch, catering by Neil's Wine House
Date: Tuesday, September 6, 2022
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Advertise in this Chamber newsletter
Having an event you want others to know about? Submit a one-time flyer insert in this newsletter for $25. Or place a year-long newsletter ad, which links to your website, for $250/year. Call the Portage Chamber for more information at 608-742-6242.
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Welcome New Chamber Members
QC Electronics
1635 LaDawn Drive, Portage, WI
Alyxandria Klein at 608-742-1661
QC Electronics designs and manufactures corona treatment equipment for the
packaging industry as our main business function. We also offer waterjet cutting.
KlarCare LLC
108 E. Cook Street, Portage, WI
Dr. Amy Doherty at 608-580-5551
KlarCare brings back a focus on the doctor-patient relationship with a physician who knows
your story inside and out and your choice to be seen at our office or at your home.
Doll Eyes
228 W. Wisconsin Street, Portage, WI
Crystal McDonald at 630-915-2110
We specialize in long, luxurious eyelash extensions, permanent cosmetic
makeup and 3D Microblade; all to enhance your natural beauty.
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DOT Interstate 39/90/94 Corridor Study
The Portage Area Chamber of Commerce is part of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation Interstate 39/90/94 Corridor Study Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC), addressing existing and future traffic, safety, and aging infrastructure. The Chamber attended the first committee meeting on August 9.
The 67-mile long corridor-- comprising Dane, Columbia, Sauk and Juneau counties--is one of the most economically important corridors in Wisconsin and the Midwest, serving tourists, commuters, freight shippers, and agricultural and manufacturing businesses. Annually, the corridor handles $160 billion of commerce.
The project involves US 12/18 (Beltline in Madison) to just north of WIS 16/US 12 interchange near Wisconsin Dells. The stretch of I-39 at the Petro Interchange where I-39 splits from I-90/94 north to State Highway 33 is also included.
No eastern bypass is planned for the I-39/90/94 corridor, as was studied a few years ago. Priority attention would be given to infrastructure in need of replacement, such as the I-39/90/94 Wisconsin River bridges that were built in 1961.
The public is encouraged to provide feedback on issues of concern along the current corridor and offer suggestions. You may contact the Portage Chamber at 608-742-6242. WisDOT will provide updated information about the study and public involvement opportunities. Visit wisconsindot.gov/Pages/projects/by-region/sw/399094.
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Pauquette Park featured in August Silent Sports
Pauquette Park was the featured subject of an article that appeared in the August issue of Silent Sports magazine.
The article is written in memory of George Beasley, who served as Portage Service Club Association chairperson. The Beasley Pavilion at Pauquette Park is named for George and his wife Nancy.
"Welcome to Portage's Pauquette Park...by George!" begins on page 44 of the subscription-based monthly publication, which spotlights non-motorized aerobic activities, such as running, paddling and biking.
The article can be found at the Portage Public Library, the Portage Chamber office or by magazine subscription. The Historic Indian Agency House will be featured in the upcoming October issue.
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Ribbon Cuttings
WCCU Credit Union held a ribbon cutting to celebrate the opening of this new branch in Portage. In the process, WCCU donated more than $500 toward the following organizations: Portage Food Pantry, Portage FFA, Wisconsin American Legion, and the American Legion Post 47.
WCCU is here to help you spend, save, manage, invest and make money. We facilitate financial stability in your life.
Let us help aid you in finding the right checking account, the right loan and the right budget for you and your family’s life and financial well being. If you’re not a member of WCCU, apply for membership today! For more information, call 608-745-1600.
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Ribbon Cuttings
A ribbon cutting was held at St. Mary's School to celebrate the opening of their brand new playground. Fr. Gary Krahenbuhl, pastor of St. Mary's, blessed the playground ahead of the ribbon cutting.
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Welcome Nichole Gawronski
BrightStar Care of Baraboo would like to give a warm welcome to Nichole Gawronski as our new Operations Manager. Nichole started with BrightStar Care of Baraboo a year ago as the Customer Experience Manager. When the opportunity to continue as the Operations Manager arose our leaders knew she would be a great fit to lead our Baraboo office. Nichole is a long time Baraboo native and believes that the strength of the community depends on all of its residents. If you have a chance, stop in and say hello!
Additionally, we have great availability for daytime hours in all of our main areas - Baraboo, Reedsburg, Portage and Wisconsin Dells - Mornings through afternoons.
507 Linn Street, Suite B, Baraboo, WI 53913
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Free Rummage event
Portage Seventh-day Adventist Church, 2100 E. State Road 33, is hosting a Free Rummage Event on
September 1 from 9am to 6pm; Friday, September 2 from 9am to 6pm; and Sunday, September 4 from 9am to 6pm.
Donations received are given to the Portage Food Pantry. For more information, call 608-742-4695.
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Portage Farmers Market; Elks Cookout
The Portage Farmers Market is hosted from May through October on every Thursday from Noon - 5pm at Commerce Plaza in downtown Portage. The market features homegrown produce items, homemade items, and handcrafted items. For questions, contact the Market Manager, Paul Howe at 608-745-8334.
Portage Elks Veranda Cookout is held on Thursdays from 11am to 5pm at the Elks Lodge, 201 W. Conant Street, across from the Farmer Market. Enjoy a choice of burgers, brats, and BBQ pulled pork. Cookouts will end in September.
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Artist Opening Reception at PCA
Come to Portage Center for the Arts for the Opening Reception of Mosaics by artist Joseph Kaftan on Friday, September 2 from 4pm to 6pm. Free and open to the public! Light refreshments will be served. Exhibit runs through September 30.
Lunch Break Series
Grab your lunch, bring a friend, and come to the Portage Center for the Arts' Zona Gale Theatre at Noon on select Thursdays throughout the year! $5 at the door!
The topic of the September 22 event is Boys & Girls Clubs, empowering youth to become tomorrow's leaders through everyday moments. It is for that reason that several dedicated Portage community members came together to determine what it would take to bring a Boys & Girls Club to the community of Portage! Learn more from West-Central Wisconsin CEO Karen DeSanto!
Kaylin Kole at PCA
This singer-songwriter and Portage native Kaylin Kole returns to the Zona Gale Stage from Nashville, where she has recorded and released several singles, on Saturday, September 24 at 7:30pm.
Portage Center for the Arts is located at 301 E. Cook Street. For more information about these and other events, call 608-742-5655.
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National Cinema Day
The Cinema Foundation celebrates 'National Cinema Day' with discounted tickets on Saturday, September 3. Tickets at theaters across the country will only be $3 for every movie, showtime and format -- a fraction of the national average price of $9.17.
The Cinema Foundation is a donor-supported nonprofit. Portage Theatres, along with more than 3,000 participating national locations comprising more than 30,000 screens, will be participating in the event. Portage Theatres is located at 322 W. Wisconsin Street.
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Alzheimer’s and Dementia Walk
Sunday, September 11th at Riverside Park
12:00 p.m. Registration, Team Photos, Silent Raffle Starts
12:45 p.m. Welcome
1:00 p.m. Walk begins
2:15 p.m. Recognition Ceremony, and Raffle Prizes
Register at:
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Yoga at Durward's Glen
Please join Durward's Glen as they team up with Bee Alive Yoga every other Saturday throughout the Summer!!! Sign up here or $20 in person the day of class. Remaining schedule of classes: September 3 & 17 from 9am-10am.
Enjoy the beautiful, peaceful Glen as you exercise in nature. Bring your mat! Durward's Glen is located at W11876 McLeisch Road. For more information, call 608-356-8113.
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Join LaVita now!
From September 6 through September 13, enrollment is 50% off at La Vita! Get access to warm water therapy and lap pools, group fitness classes, cushioned indoor track and more!
Call 608-745-3800 or email lavita@aspirus.org for more information! See you at the gym! La Vita Fitness & Wellness Center is located at 2815 New Pinery Road.
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ADRC Portage Dining Center
The Portage Dining Center is now open Monday through Friday with lunch served at 11:30am at the Aging & Disability Resource Center of Columbia County, 111 E. Mullet Street. Please remember to make your reservation by 11am the business day prior.
If you have any questions or to make a reservation, call 608-742-9211. Open to adults 60 and older.
ADRC Bingo
Come and join the Portage Senior Dining Lunch Bunch for Bingo on September 8 & 22, October 6 & 27 and November 10 & 21 from 10:15 to 11:15am at the ADRC dining area, Health & Human Services Building, 111 E. Mullett Street. Call one day in advance for a delicious meal at 608-742-9233 between 9am and Noon.
Care Workshop at ADRC
Are you providing care for a loved one? In this free 60-minute workshop, learn communication
and support strategies that improve the healthcare and caregiving for older adults.
This Care Workshop is happening on Tuesday, September 13 from 3pm to 4pm at the ADRC, 111 E. Mullett Street (Rooms 2 and 3) in Portage. Register by calling Maddie at 608-742-9207.
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Back2School Student Special
Bee Alive Yoga is holding a Back2School Student Special - 1 Month for $30 for K-12 & College Students Only. Must present school ID at the studio in order to use purchase. Valid September 1 through October 16.
Breakthrough Breathwork Workshop
A Breakthrough Breathwork Workshop will be held on Sunday, September 4 from 4pm to 6pm. Sign up at beealiveyoga.com/events. Space is limited.
For more information, call Bee Alive Yoga, 230 W. Wisconsin Street, at 608-745-9333.
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Poker at VFW
The VFW is open on Wednesdays for Texas Hold'em Poker. Poker starts at 7:30pm with a $20 buy in. All buy in money paid out to winners. Portage VFW Post #1707 is located at 215 W. Collins Street behind Walgreens. For more information, please call 608-742-5350.
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Labor Day Workout
A Labor Day Workout will be held at the Portage CrossFit Cooperative on Monday, September 5 at 8am. Doors will open at 7:30am. Drop-ins are welcome: 100% of the $20 fee goes toward the effort to bring a Boys & Girls Club to Portage. http://www.portagecrossfitcooperative.com/schedule.html
Portage CrossFit Cooperative is located at 211 East Albert Street.
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4th Annual Celebration of Freedom
The 4th Annual Celebration of Freedom will be held at Veterans Memorial Field at the Columbia County Fairgrounds this year. View the traveling replica of the WWII Monument in Washington, D.C. and listen to live music entertainment on Saturday with Best Practice, Road Trip and Drew Henderson out of Nashville.
There will be a Blood Drive and Chili Cook Off on Friday, plus an Adult Softball Tournament Friday through Sunday.
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Sleep in Heavenly Peace Build Day
We need your help ... Bunks Across America is happening on September 10! Join us, along with 200 other chapters across the country trying to build 10,000 beds in a single day.
On Saturday, September 10 please join in at the Sleep In Heavenly Peace Warehouse at O'Brion Agency (628 Albert Street, Portage) for the annual Bunks Across America event to help reach the goal of building 40 bunks (80 beds) that morning. This is where you, your friends, and family come in to give a 2-hour window of time between 9am and 1pm to roll up your sleeves and participate in an activity that will not only be heartwarming but also have an instant impact in our community.
Please sign up at http://bit.ly/SHPPortageVolunteers. Bring your friends, family, church/school groups... anyone with 90 minutes of time and willingness to help kids in our community. Help get the kids in our town off the floor and into their very own bed for the first time!
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Brat & Bake Sale for 8th Grade Washington, D.C. Trip
Come to the Brat and Bake Sale located near Portage Wal-Mart Grocery doors on Saturday, September 10 from 10am to 3pm to support the Bartels Middle School 8th Grade Fundraiser for 2023 trip to Washington, D.C. Donations welcome!!
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Portage Library Hosts A Haunted Portage Story Gathering Event
You are invited to join us and share your stories from the Portage area. Our paranormal professionals Gwen and Shelley will gather your stories and investigate. They will return on October 24 to scare you senseless with what they find.
This event is scheduled for Saturday, September 10 from 11am to 1pm at the Portage Public Library. Register in advance for this adult program at programs@portagelibrary.com or 608-742-4959.
ZUMBA at the Library
By popular demand, ZUMBA will continue at the library through September 26! Tami, the certified instructor, will get you up and moving in this fun exercise program for all fitness levels.
Registration is limited. Sign up in advance at programs@portagelibrary.us or call 608-742-4959. Registration opens on the Tuesday prior to class. *No program on September 5.
Adult Technology Class
Come to the Portage Public Library for an Adult Technology Class on Wednesday, September 14 from 1pm to 2pm. This beginner class will cover the basics of using technology including computers, smartphones and more. Registration is required. Call 608-742-4959 for more information.
7 Keys to Success selling and purchasing a home
Come to this free two-part series on selling and purchasing a home. Join Bonnie Dixon and Brian Scheibach for an opportunity to learn the basic "keys" to managing one of the biggest investments you'll ever make. Bring your questions and leave with the confidence and knowledge you'll need to succeed.
Selling Your Home - Thursday, September 15 from 5pm to 6pm at Portage Public Library
Purchasing A Home - Thursday, October 13 from 5pm to 6pm at Portage Public Library
The Portage Public Library is located at 253 West Edgewater Street.
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Back to School Bash at CrossPoint Assembly of God Church
On September 11, following the service at Noon, CrossPoint Assembly of God is having a back-to-school bash and open house. There'll be bounce houses, hot dogs, popcorn, ice cream, candy, games, and a fun time for all! You're also invited to check out their newly remodeled NexGen Area! This fun-packed free event is an excellent way to kick off the school year. Bring the whole family.
CrossPoint is located at 2727 County Road CX. For more information, call 608-742-2221.
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Patriot Memorial Event
Join us at Fort Winnebago Surgeons Quarters to honor the Patriot Memorial on Sunday, September 11 at the Fort Winnebago Surgeons Quarters, 1824 East State Road 33. Click here for more information.
FWSQ Book Club
Fort Winnebago Surgeons Quarters is hosting their monthly book club discussion. This month they will be reviewing the book The Kindred Spirits Supper Club by Amy Reichert on Sunday, September 11 from 3pm to 5pm at the Surgeons Quarters.
Fall Festival at Surgeons Quarters
Fort Winnebago Surgeons Quarters is celebrating the autumnal equinox with pumpkin painting, apple games, fall crafts and more on Saturday, September 24.
Fort Winnebago Surgeons Quarters is located at 1824 East State Road 33. For more information, call 608-742-2949.
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"The Historic Landscape" Speaker Series
“The Historic Landscape” Speaker Series at the Historic Indian Agency House continues with Part 4 of 4 featuring speaker Patrick J. Jung, Professor of History and Anthropology, Milwaukee School of Engineering on the topic "Eyewitnesses: Early Explorers of the Fox-Wisconsin Corridor."
This event is scheduled for Tuesday, September 13 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm. The event is free to attend.
Immerse yourself in the historic landscape through the eyes of early travelers and explorers of Wisconsin who left firsthand accounts of what they saw. Dr. Jung opens up intriguing vistas featuring the people, places, and cultural complexities of centuries past from the perspectives of those who were there.
Historic Trails Weekend at Historic Agency House
Scouts from across the region are invited to gather at the Historic Indian Agency House to learn, earn the entire Historic Trails Award over the weekend, and make memories while walking in the footsteps of Native Americans, explorers, traders, soldiers, and many others who made significant marks in Portage history.
Explore over two miles of scenic hiking trails. Take a tour of the museum. Help restore the historic prairie landscape of the Fox-Wisconsin portage. Camp one night or two. Pre-registration is required. This event is free to all Scouts BSA groups. The dates are Friday, September 23 through Sunday, September 25.
The Historic Indian Agency House is located at 1490 Agency House Road. For more information, call 608-742-6362.
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GriefShare
Many grieving people find they are only beginning the work of healing when friends or family have returned to their daily life routines. Your bereavement experience may be recent or not so recent. Through GriefShare, you will find encouragement, comfort, and help in grieving the death of a loved one. At each session, there will be a DVD followed by a small group discussion.
Past participants have related how helpful the information and follow-up discussions were to them. You will learn valuable information about facing your new normal in life and renewing your hope for the future.
When: Tuesdays starting at 4:30pm; September 13 through December 13
Where: St. John's Lutheran Church, 850 Armstrong St. Portage, WI 53901
Cost: A $20 free-will donation to cover the cost of participant materials is appreciated.
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Check It Out: First in the World to Get Rebranded Look
Members of the community and surrounding areas are invited to stop by the club, located at 2800 New Pinery Road, on Wednesday, September 14th from 3pm-7pm. There will be over $1,000 in raffle prizes given away, free refreshments, and huge discounts on memberships and personal training. No appointment is necessary. We will hold a ribbon cutting celebration at 4:30pm.
Anytime Fitness Portage is ready to celebrate – and you’re invited! After weeks of being shut down due to a complete remodel, members and staff at Anytime Fitness Portage are thrilled to be back in the new space, which underwent a $200,000 overhaul.
Out of nearly 5,000 Anytime Fitness locations around the world, the club in Portage, WI was one of the very first to receive the updated look after Anytime Fitness launched its new “Real AF” marketing platform in late 2021. Changes at the club include a new layout, additional new equipment, more free weight and training space, additional stalls in the restrooms, and a completely updated and modern look.
To celebrate the “Real AF” platform, which prioritizes a holistic approach to fitness, health and wellness through authentic interactions between Anytime Fitness coaches and members, Anytime Fitness will be hosting a Grand Opening celebration. “We’re so excited to show off our updated look,” says Jodi Monroe, Club Manager. “The bright, modern design and updated layout helps us do everything in our power to help our members build self-confidence, resiliency, commitment, balance — wherever they are, on their terms."
Any questions can be directed to the club by calling 608-745-0250. Or, stop by and get in a workout in the new space! Staffed hours are Monday through Thursday 11am to 7pm and Fridays 8am to 2pm. Visit the website at anytimefitness.com and follow Anytime Fitness Portage on Facebook for updates.
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New Life Physical Therapy Hosts 20th Anniversary
New Life Physical Therapy is celebrating their 20th Anniversary. Be part of their celebration on Thursday, September 15 from 4pm to 7pm. There will be a cookout, games and prizes, trivia wheel, food drive to benefit the local food pantry and a presentation to Matt VanderKooi, the founder of New Life. A Ribbon Cutting will take place at 5pm.
New Life Physical Therapy is located at 2639 New Pinery Road, Suite 2 in Portage. For more information, call 608-742-9356.
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Community Blood Drive at Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital
Thursday, September 22 from 11am-3pm at Suite 100. Contact the Blood Center directly at 715-842-0761 to make an appointment or email kari.due@aspirus.org
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Fundraiser for Save the Grandstand
You are invited to a grandstand memorabilia gathering "Classic Photos of Portage" event on Saturday, September 24 at the Elks Lodge, 201 W. Conant Street, from 1pm to 5pm. Please come enjoy an afternoon to participate in the silent auction and view the memorabilia people bring to share. They are putting together a slide show from past yearbooks.
This event helps support Save the Grandstand Inc. and their effort to revitalize the grandstand at the Columbia County Fairgrounds.
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Portage Sharing Supper
Come and "share supper" together with the community on Monday, September 26 from 5pm to 6:30pm at Wayne Bartels Middle School, 2505 New Pinery Road, and the last Monday of each month.
In addition to the free meal, there is a "Kid's Corner" for young people to do a craft and hear a story as well as informational tables for adults. There will also be a free blood pressure station available.
The purpose of these suppers is to build and nourish community relationships by providing a dining experience that is free of all economic and social barriers.
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September Chamber Meetings and Events
6 Business Luncheon at Portage Public Library at 11:30am
7 Ambassador Meeting at Community Bank of Portage at 8am
14 Ribbon Cutting at Anytime Fitness at 4:30pm
15 Ribbon Cutting at New Life Physical Therapy at 5pm
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Spread the word about Portage!
Use #portagewi or #portagechamberwi in your social media posts.
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Check out the Chamber's YouTube Channel HERE
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Want to submit an article for this newsletter?
The Chamber's monthly newsletter deadlines the 20th of the month. Members are always welcome to let others know: about new products and services; introduce new associates or promotions; provide updates about their industry or business; give helpful tips; promote a sale or event. For more information, call the Portage Chamber at 608-742-6242.
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Submit your Events!
Are you planning an event this year? Get it posted on our web community calendar at www.portagewi.com. One of the most popular viewed of the Chamber website pages, the calendar allows you to submit your own events.
Simply click this link and submit your events. If you have questions, please call the Chamber office at 608-742-6242.
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Job postings on portagewi.com
Check out these job postings on our Chamber site from our member businesses. You are welcome to post job openings your business may have at any time. Call the Chamber office at 608-742-6242 for more information.
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Join a Service Club - Meetings subject to change
Rotary - Meets Mondays at Noon at Dino’s Restaurant, 2900 New Pinery Rd.
Lions Club - Meets the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 5:30pm at Dino’s Restaurant, 2900 New Pinery Rd., summer month meetings change locations
Kiwanis - Meets on Wednesdays at Noon at Pizza Ranch, 2905 New Pinery Rd.
Optimists - Meets on Tuesdays at 7am at Dino’s Restaurant, 2900 New Pinery Rd.
Elks - Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday at 7pm; 2nd Tuesday only in July, August and December
Women's Civic League - Meets 2nd Wednesdays of the month at Dino’s Restaurant, 2900 New Pinery Rd.
*Please Note: Dino's Restaurant is temporarily closed. Please call Chamber office for meeting info at 608-742-6242.
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