Eau Claire, WI – Charter Bank is pleased to welcome Mark Faanes as a member of the Charter Bank Board of Directors. Mark will also be a member of the Audit Committee, the Loan Committee, and the Asset-Liability Management & Investment Committee.

Mark recently retired from his career as a CPA after 41 years in public accounting at Wipfli where he also served as the Partner-in-Charge for the firm’s western and northern Wisconsin offices. Mark holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with an accounting major from UW-Eau Claire.

“Charter Bank is a very highly respected community bank; it is an honor to join its Board of Directors. I look forward to lending my 40 years of experience working with businesses and individuals in the Chippewa Valley to the Board for the betterment of the Bank, its customers and the communities it serves,” stated Faanes.

Mark serves on various other boards in the community. Mark is the President of the Eau Claire Chamber Educational Foundation, current board member and past board Chair for the Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce, member of the Advisory Council for the UW-Eau Claire College of Business, past Board Chair for the Eau Claire Community Foundation, and also serves as a board member and Region 1 Director for Wisconsin American Legion Baseball.
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As a proud life-long resident of Eau Claire, Mark is involved in a variety of community organizations including being a 35-year member and past officer of the Eau Claire Early Riser Kiwanis Club, Eau Claire American Legion Baseball, and VP of the UW-Eau Claire Booster Club.

Eau Claire, WI – Charter Bank is pleased to offer annual scholarships for high school graduating seniors and post-high school applicants. In total, 13 scholarships will be awarded to eligible applicants.
​
Scholarships will be awarded to those who are clients of Charter Bank or whose parent(s) or guardian(s) is/are clients of Charter Bank. Scholarships are eligible for yearly renewal. Applicants can visit our website to learn more about eligibility.
All applications are due March 15th and can be found online. For more information and to apply, visit charterbank.bank/about/scholarships.

​International student joins other Blugolds in studying abroad
Ariel Liu's experience as an international student at UW-Eau Claire has been so positive that it piqued her curiosity about people and cultures in other parts of the world, so Liu did what many Blugolds do — she spent a semester studying abroad. Full story.
 
A half pint with a big heart: Blugold wrestler Samuel Sedelbauer
Last fall the Blugold wrestling team signed a new recruit, a 10-year-old teammate who has not let illness curb his style or his joy. In fact, he's helped to spread more of it to a team of men twice his age who've found they had a lot to learn from him. Full story.
 
Chemistry major helping area youth see value in Blugold Beginnings, higher education
As an intern in the Blugold Beginnings office, Mai Yer Yang is planning a tour day for area eighth graders, an event that she hopes will inspire the young students to make the most of what the program offers and to consider pursuing a college degree. Full story.
 
Nobuyoshi Yasuda selected to lead national youth orchestra
Yasuda, a UW-Eau Claire professor of music and director of the University Symphony Orchestra, has been invited to lead the 2020 All-National Symphony Orchestra, one of six groups that make up the NAfME All-National Honor Ensembles. Full story.
 
UW-Eau Claire production of 'James and the Giant Peach' to include sensory-friendly shows
Area youth and their families will enter a fantastical world during UW-Eau Claire's upcoming production of "James and the Giant Peach," with two of nine performances being sensory-friendly shows to ensure the enjoyment of a neurodiverse audience. Full story.
 
Blugold finds joy and friendships playing Mary Poppins in local theater production
Kathryn Flynn, a music vocal performance major, has the starring role in Eau Claire Children Theatre’s production of the much loved “Mary Poppins,” a role she says is bringing her great joy because it’s been a longtime dream to play the magical Mary. Full story.
 
Shamrock Shuffle to be March 14 at UW-Eau Claire
The Shamrock Shuffle, a fundraiser including a 5K run/walk and children's events hosted by the UW-Eau Claire University Recreation and Sport Operations department, will be held March 14. Full story.
 
UW-Eau Claire to host regional National History Day competition
The event, an opportunity for more than 300 students in grades 6-12 to "do history," will run from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. March 5 in Davies Center. Full story.

​CHIPPEWA FALLS – HSHS Sacred Heart and St. Joseph’s hospitals’ Community Health is hosting a session for anyone who would like to learn how to recognize the warning signs that someone may be thinking about suicide, and how to help them. The training is called “Question, Persuade, Refer” – or QPR. Just like CPR, QPR is an emergency response to someone in crisis and can save a life.

The session will take place Tuesday, March 17, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. in McDonald Hall at HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital, 2661 Co Hwy I. Registration is required by calling 715-717-7479 or online at www.stjoeschipfalls.org/Events-Classes.

“Suicide is very hard for most people to talk about,” said Laura Baalrud, director of Community Health at HSHS Sacred Heart and St. Joseph’s hospitals. “We hope to open up the dialogue about mental health and suicidal feelings to help reduce the stigma.”

WNB Financial is helping to kick-off the Minnesota FoodShare March Campaign and fill the Winona Volunteer Services Food Shelf with its third annual Grocery Grab event. The event will take place Wednesday, February 26, at Midtown Foods (126 E. 5th Street, Winona).

Eight teams have entered the Grocery Grab and will race through Midtown Foods, with the winner being determined by the total dollar amount of groceries collected over 90 seconds. Teams include: the defending champions Saint Mary’s University, HBC, Fastenal, Knight Barry Title, Winona Daily News, Winona Health, Winona State University John Latsch Leadership Academy, and WNB Financial. Teams will consist of two members with two carts and will run one at a time in a randomly drawn order.

WNB Financial will pay for the winning team’s groceries, while all other teams must pay for their own groceries, and all items will be delivered to the Food Shelf that evening. At 7 p.m., Winona Volunteer Services Director Sandra Burke will address the crowd to officially kick-off the Minnesota FoodShare March Campaign and Grocery Grab event. In addition, local sports radio and television personality, Dean Beckman, will deliver live play-by-play as the teams race through the store.
The Minnesota FoodShare March Campaign is the largest grassroots food and fund drive in the state, accomplished by participating groups and individuals engaged in the fight against hunger in support of 300 partner food drives. The Supplemental Food Shelf at Winona Volunteer Services offers eligible residents with limited resources a way to receive free food once a month.
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Midtown Foods will remain open to the public during the event.
Visit the WNB Financial Facebook page for more details.

Eau Claire, WI – Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) has been named a Military Friendly School for 2020-21.

The Military Friendly School designation is awarded to the top colleges, universities, community colleges and trade schools in the country that are doing the most to embrace military students and ensure their success in the classroom and after graduation. The list serves as a resource for service members and military families seeking education and has played a significant role in advancing best practices in supporting military students on campuses across the country.

Institutions earning the Military Friendly School designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a survey completed by the school.

“We serve approximately 175 veterans annually,” said Deb Ludwikowski, who works directly with veterans at CVTC. “This honor is based on the services we offer specifically for our student veterans.”

Ludwikowski has received a Federal Certificate of Appreciation from the Federal Executive Board for her outstanding work with veterans. “I help them apply for their benefits and work as a go-between if there are payment issues with the Veterans Administration. I’m a point of reference for them,” Ludwikowski said.

Institutions competed for the elite Military Friendly School title by completing a survey of over 100 questions covering ten categories, including military support on campus, graduation and employment outcomes, and military spouse policies. Survey responses were scored against benchmarks across these key indicators of success.

Military Friendly is owned and operated by Viqtory, a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business. The list of institutions designated Military Friendly can be found at www.militaryfriendly.com.
​
With 95 programs and both online and on-campus classes, Chippewa Valley Technical College delivers superior, progressive technical education which improves the lives of students, meets the workforce needs of the region, and strengthens the community. CVTC programs are designed with input of business and industry to prepare graduates for today’s jobs, with 93 percent employed within six months of graduation and associate degree graduates earning an average annual salary of $44,000.

Dr. Eldon Hill, founder of the Draper Hills Financial Literacy                                                          
Endowment at the Eau Claire Community Foundation
​
The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce and long-time Eau Claire resident Dr. Eldon Hill, who established the Draper Hills Financial Literacy Endowment at the Eau Claire Community Foundation, received the 2019 Governor’s Financial Literacy Awards for Organizations and Legacies (respectively) on Wednesday, February 19, at the State Capital.

The Governor’s Financial Literacy Awards recognize organizations and individuals who make a significant difference in financial literacy education. The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce was one of six organization recipients. The Chamber has worked creatively and in close partnership with the Eau Claire Area School District to instill financial literacy in the area
Through collaboration with local institutions and school districts, the Chamber oversees a local Youth Apprenticeship Consortium, coordinates a financial literacy simulation called “Real Life Academy,” and recruits volunteers for career exploration opportunities that support students’ academic and career planning. These experiences are woven into the curricula of local schools to support long-term implementation.

The Eau Claire Area Youth Apprenticeship Consortium hosts approximately 85 students this year, with a goal of expansion in the years to come. In addition, during the past year, over 600 students attended Real Life Academy, which showed them how to budget for a month like a young professional.
 
Accepting on behalf of the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce were Casey Schumacher, Andrew Neborak and Monica Obrycki.

The Legacy Award is given to “an organization, business, or individual whose purpose and heritage is ingrained in sustained financial literacy and capability, and whose reputation in doing so is held in high regard in serving as a model for others in carrying on the work of supporting financial literacy and expanding opportunities through financial capability. This lifetime recognition is intended to be conferred only once to recipients.”

Dr. Eldon Hill, a resident of Eau Claire for more than 30 years, was one of 5 legacy recipients.

Dr. Hill, who grew up in Loyal, WI, and graduated from its high school in 1938, had a vision of giving back to the community that had nurtured him. In order to realize that vision, he established the Draper Hills Financial Literacy Endowment Fund at the Eau Claire Community Foundation, which supports a comprehensive K-12 Financial Literacy Program in the Loyal School District.

Dr. Hill’s passion for financial literacy, and his giving heart, have so far impacted more than 300 students. His vision has spurred innovative ways to teach financial literacy in the classroom, through summer school programming, and in an after-school night class to enhance learning and fun when it comes to financial literacy.

The Eau Claire Community Foundation, which holds the Draper Hills Financial Literacy Endowment Fund, is proud to help fulfill Dr. Hill’s vision by ensuring that Loyal’s Financial Literacy program is supported both now and for years to come. 
 
Although Dr. Hill was unable to attend the Awards Ceremony, his daughter Meredith Hill Stockford, Financial Literacy Instructor Jessica Zarnke, and Eau Claire Community Foundation Executive Director Sue Bornick accepted the Legacy Award on his behalf.
 
For more information, please contact Sue Bornick at suebornick@eccfwi.org or 715-552-3801.

Photo on left: Governor Tony Evers, Monica Obrycki, Eau Claire Energy Cooperative, Casey Schumacher, Eau Claire Chamber, Andrew Neborak and Kathy Evers.  Photo on right: Governor Tony Evers, Jessica Zarnke, Meredith Hill Stockford, Sue Bornick and Kathy Evers. 

The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce and long-time Eau Claire resident Dr. Eldon Hill, who established the Draper Hills Financial Literacy Endowment at the Eau Claire Community Foundation, received the 2019 Governor’s Financial Literacy Awards for Organizations and Legacies (respectively) on Wednesday, February 19, at the State Capital.
 
The Governor’s Financial Literacy Awards recognize organizations and individuals who make a significant difference in financial literacy education. The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce was one of six organization recipients. The Chamber has worked creatively and in close partnership with the Eau Claire Area School District to instill financial literacy in the area.
 
Through collaboration with local institutions and school districts, the Chamber oversees a local Youth Apprenticeship Consortium, coordinates a financial literacy simulation called “Real Life Academy,” and recruits volunteers for career exploration opportunities that support students’ academic and career planning. These experiences are woven into the curricula of local schools to support long-term implementation.
 
The Eau Claire Area Youth Apprenticeship Consortium hosts approximately 85 students this year, with a goal of expansion in the years to come. In addition, during the past year, over 600 students attended Real Life Academy, which showed them how to budget for a month like a young professional.
 
Accepting on behalf of the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce were Casey Schumacher, Andrew Neborak and Monica Obrycki.
 
The Legacy Award is given to “an organization, business, or individual whose purpose and heritage is ingrained in sustained financial literacy and capability, and whose reputation in doing so is held in high regard in serving as a model for others in carrying on the work of supporting financial literacy and expanding opportunities through financial capability. This lifetime recognition is intended to be conferred only once to recipients.”
 
Dr. Eldon Hill, a resident of Eau Claire for more than 30 years, was one of 5 legacy recipients.
 
Dr. Hill, who grew up in Loyal, WI, and graduated from its high school in 1938, had a vision of giving back to the community that had nurtured him. In order to realize that vision, he established the Draper Hills Financial Literacy Endowment Fund at the Eau Claire Community Foundation, which supports a comprehensive K-12 Financial Literacy Program in the Loyal School District.
 
Dr. Hill’s passion for financial literacy, and his giving heart, have so far impacted more than 300 students. His vision has spurred innovative ways to teach financial literacy in the classroom, through summer school programming, and in an after-school night class to enhance learning and fun when it comes to financial literacy.
 
The Eau Claire Community Foundation, which holds the Draper Hills Financial Literacy Endowment Fund, is proud to help fulfill Dr. Hill’s vision by ensuring that Loyal’s Financial Literacy program is supported both now and for years to come. 
 
Although Dr. Hill was unable to attend the Awards Ceremony, his daughter Meredith Hill Stockford, Financial Literacy Instructor Jessica Zarnke, and Eau Claire Community Foundation Executive Director Sue Bornick accepted the Legacy Award on his behalf.
 
For more information, please contact Sue Bornick at suebornick@eccfwi.org or 715-552-3801.

​
 

Eggs & Issues: Annual "State of the City" presentation by City Council President Terry Weld and City Manager Dale Peters

As the Chamber's Annual Eggs & Issues program devoted to "The State of the City" kicked off on Friday morning, February 21, City Council President Terry Weld began by thanking City Manager Dale Peters (who is retiring in May) for his 30 years of service to the City. Weld's thank-you sentiments brought the assembled group of nearly 100 business and community leaders to the feet for a standing ovation.

The departure of Peters from the City this spring was one of the upcoming challenges highlighted by Weld, as he and Peters recounted accomplishments from 2019 and looked ahead to the coming year. 

Left: Dale Peters responds to a standing ovation for his years of service as City Council President Terry Weld looks on
Right: A full room at the Lismore Hotel for the 2020 "State of the City" address
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Weld and Peters provided the audience with a two-page list of major accomplishments from the past year, which included work to maintain a strong economic base, providing infrastructure, strengthening the organization and responsiveness of the city, emphasizing neighborhood connections, and engaging "opportunities to make Eau Claire livable, lovable, and fun." 

Key initiatives highlighted included downtown development, development of the Renewable Energy Action Plan, completion of the remodeling of City Hall, street reconstruction projects, work on reducing homelessness, initiation of the "Wintermission" effort to embrace winter, and more. They also provided a one-page summary of Eau Claire's Strategic Plan. 

Plans by the states of Wisconsin and Minnesota to add a second Amtrak train on the current St. Paul-La Crosse-Milwaukee-Chicago route could include a shuttle connection from Eau Claire to Tomah that would provide additional travel options for the Chippewa Valley. The Eau Claire City Council will consider a resolution at its February 25 meeting that would encourage inclusion of the shuttle in WisDOT's plans.

​The current Amtrak route is served by a single daily train, the long distance Chicago-Seattle/Portland Empire Builder.  Amtrak studies requested by the Wisconsin and Minnesota departments of transportation show there is strong ridership demand in the market, which would benefit from a second daily schedule option. Because it would begin its route in the Twin Cities, the eastbound train would also be more reliable than the Empire Builder, which can sometimes be significantly late coming from the west. 

As part of the prospective new service implementation, the states are considering dedicated shuttle connections to nearby cities not directly served by the train, including Rochester, Eau Claire and Madison. Such connections are successful in adding ridership in other states like California. Last summer, WisDOT added dedicated bus connections from the popular Chicago-Milwaukee "Hiawatha" trains twice a day to Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, Appleton and Green Bay.

The proposed Eau Claire shuttle would travel along I-94 and make direct connection to trains at the Amtrak station in Tomah. ​The West Central Wisconsin Rail Coalition, which is working to establish a multi-frequency Twin Cities-Eau Claire corridor as a public-private partnership on the tracks of the Union Pacific Railroad, has endorsed the proposal as a complementary step to provide residents of the region access to the national passenger train network.

In a resolution it drafted last month, the Coalition noted that many people already drive to the station at Tomah: "This would open up more travel opportunities for area residents and visitors to connect to/from Milwaukee and Chicago via Tomah, and would especially provide improved mobility for students, seniors and others who cannot or do not want to drive 80 miles to access the service."

In a letter to WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson, the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce noted: "Transportation is a critical component for economic prosperity. The Chamber has long advocated for establishing passenger rail service to our region as an important component for economic competitiveness and talent attraction," and that the shuttle "would enhance the connectivity of our community and be complementary to efforts to obtain future direct train service for Eau Claire."

Funding for the second train would come from the states, leveraged by federal grants. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has included $10 million for Minnesota's share in his 2020 legislative bonding proposal.

For more information about the Chamber's support of this project, contact Scott Rogers, Governmental Affairs & Workforce Director: rogers@eauclairechamber.org

More information:​
​​Additional passenger train from St. Paul to Chicago closer to becoming a reality (La Crosse Tribune)
Twin Cities-Milwaukee-Chicago Intercity Passenger Rail Service (Minnesota Department of Transportation)
Eau Claire City Council Agenda (See pages 25-28 for proposed resolution)
Eau Claire Chamber Letter (February 20, 2020)
Supporting resolution: West Central Wisconsin Rail Coalition (January 23, 2020)

Posted by Scott Rogers, Governmental Affairs & Workforce Director
rogers@eauclairechamber.org
​

CVTC Event Showcases Advanced Manufacturing
Public has chance to explore careers, catch the latest
Eau Claire, WI – When Jan and Sharon Gunderson came to the Manufacturing Show at Chippewa Valley Technical College last year, they headed right to the lab in what is today the Machine Tooling Technics program, where Jan got a look at the modern computer numerical controlled (CNC) machines. Jan found that much had changed since his time in the program, just as it has in all areas of manufacturing.
 
Area residents can check out the latest in modern manufacturing at the 2020 Manufacturing Show from 3-7 p.m. March 12 at the CVTC Manufacturing Education Center at 2320 Alpine Road, Eau Claire.
 
“This was just awesome. We enjoyed this so much,” Jan said. He proudly showed a card identifying him as a 1960 graduate of what was then called the Eau Claire Technical Institute in the Machine Shop program.
 
This year’s show will feature hands-on activities for visitors to experience the world of modern manufacturing. Back this year is the scavenger hunt for younger visitors. Exposure to careers in advanced manufacturing is imperative to a future workforce and this activity will help them engage in a more meaningful and age-appropriate way. Participants will be entered for a chance to win a VEX robot and Coding robot.
 
New this year is a Prototyping Lab used by multiple programs and among the equipment on display will be a new type of 3D printer that can print objects in metal.
 
At the Manufacturing Show, people will be able to talk with faculty and students from CVTC’s manufacturing and engineering programs: Automation Engineering Technology, Industrial Mechanic, Industrial Mechanical Technician, Machine Tooling Technics, Manufacturing Engineering Technologist, Mechanical Design, Welding and Welding Fabrication.
 
Through tours of the program areas and visits to over 50 manufacturing employer booths, visitors will experience the world of modern manufacturing, which utilizes advanced technology and automation.
 
“We have a great diversity of manufacturing companies in the Chippewa Valley, many of them using cutting-edge technology,” said CVTC President Bruce Barker. “Attendees can learn more about these companies and how CVTC prepares workers for lucrative careers in manufacturing.”
 
Manufacturing Show attendees will be able to see student-built robotic machines, such as an entirely automated rock band; watch a 5-axis unit that can cut a metal part at various angles without having to reset the part; or see an object designed on a computer become reality through a 3D printer.
 
Also on display will be a simulated manufacturing center with robotic equipment. CVTC’s Mobile Manufacturing Lab, which brings advanced equipment and curriculum directly to area high schools, will be open for tours. Visitors will be able to try their hand at welding in the welding lab, and see equipment like a water jet that uses streams of water to cut metal in precise detail.
 
For more information, go to cvtc.edu/mfgshow.
 
With over 155 programs offered both online and on-campus, Chippewa Valley Technical College delivers superior, progressive technical education which improves the lives of students, meets the workforce needs of the region, and strengthens the community. CVTC programs are designed with input of business and industry to prepare graduates for today’s jobs, with 95 percent employed within six months of graduation and associate degree graduates earning an average annual salary of $46,816.
 
IF YOU GO
What: CVTC Manufacturing Show
When: Thursday, March 12, 3-7 p.m.
Where: CVTC Manufacturing Education Center, 2320 Alpine Road, Eau Claire
Cost: FREE and open to the public
Web: cvtc.edu/mfgshow
 
Cutline:
CVTC Automation Engineering Technology student Jordan Brocks of River Falls watches as some youngsters attending the 2019 Manufacturing Show try their hands at an air cannon game.

​Dental pros, students, work to ‘Give Kids a Smile’
CVTC hosts free dental care event
Eau Claire, WI – Sue Walders was on a mission. Sitting in the waiting room of the Chippewa Valley Technical College Dental Clinic with a number of dental problems of her own, she didn’t want to her great-grandson, Oliver Hubener, to be in pain later in his life. Walders, of Chippewa Falls, thought it best to start early with his dental care.
 
So Walders brought the 15-month-old Oliver to the CVTC Dental Clinic’s annual Give Kids a Smile Day Friday, Feb. 7 for his first dental visit.
 
Give Kids a Smile Day is sponsored nationally by the American Dental Association and statewide by the Wisconsin Dental Association, which provided supplies for the event at CVTC. Local dentists, hygienists and dental assistants volunteer their time to provide free care are joined by CVTC Dental Hygienist and Dental Assistant students as well as CVTC and Dental Clinic faculty.
 
“For many of these kids, this is the only time they get any dental treatment. That’s why this event is so important,” said Pam Entorf, director of CVTC’s Dental Hygienist and Dental Assistant programs. “And all these people who are donating their time and talents realize it’s important. That’s why they come back to help us out year after year.”
 
Dental Hygienist Instructor Sandy Schumacher said Walders was doing the right thing by bringing young Oliver early. “We encourage people to bring their children to the dentist as young as one,” she said. “It’s about education.”
 
“I made the appointment for Oliver,” Walders said, noting that his parents were working and she takes care of him a couple of days a week. “My children all have good teeth, and I want to make sure he will too. I’ve been giving him a little battery-operated toothbrush so he gets used to it.”
 
“That first experience has to be positive,” said Dr. Nick Miskulin, a native of Stetsonville who is a resident dentist at the CVTC Dental Clinic from the Marquette University School of Dentistry. “It’s very important to start out right. It’s very difficult if we don’t get them in the dental chair until they’re six years old.”
 
LeAnn Coss of Plum City brought her three boys, ages 8, 15 and 16, to the clinic. She said they hadn’t been to a dentist in one to two years. “We don’t have any dental insurance. “If we’re in pain, we go. Otherwise, we use the money for something else.”
 
Coss said her oldest son’s teeth are in good shape, as he is good about brushing, but the other two have some problems. The youngest was going to have a tooth extracted.
 
The event is a valuable learning experience for CVTC students as well.
 
“This is a good volunteer experience and a chance to give back to the community as well,” said Victoria Anderson, a second-year Dental Hygienist student from Mondovi who has been working as an assistant in an orthodontics practice. “This is a more fast-paced day and we see more patients than a regular day at the Dental Clinic.”
 
Anderson added that a big part of what they do is education. “We talk to the parents about what the kids should be drinking or not drinking, brushing and other dental habits.”
 
Alysha Butterfield, a first-year Dental Hygienist student from New Auburn, said the second-year students did the teeth cleaning and other hands-on patient care duties during the event while first-year students helped with X-Rays, charting and general assistance.
 
“It’s nice to be around kids,” Butterfield said. “We kind of talk them through it if they’re nervous.”
 
With over 155 programs offered both online and on-campus, Chippewa Valley Technical College delivers superior, progressive technical education which improves the lives of students, meets the workforce needs of the region, and strengthens the community. CVTC programs are designed with input of business and industry to prepare graduates for today’s jobs, with 95 percent employed within six months of graduation and associate degree graduates earning an average annual salary of $46,816.
 
Cutlines:
 
MSN:
Dr. Nick Miskulin a resident dentist at the CVTC Dental Clinic from the Marquette University School of Dentistry, works on a patient with the assistance of second-year CVTC Dental Hygienist student Tia Winther of Sparta at the annual CVTC Give Kids a Smile Day Feb. 7. Miskulin’s brother, Dr. Terrence Miskulin, with the Oakwood Hills Family Dentistry in Eau Claire, also helped at the event.

​Company Finds Product Development Partners at CVTC
Midwest Meals offering Culinary students chance to be creative
Eau Claire, WI – As Chippewa Valley Technical College was preparing to open its Culinary Management program in the summer of 2018, Daniel Beck, CEO of Midwest Meals in Eau Claire, took notice and considered how the program could help his business.
 
On Feb. 6, he made his pitch to the CVTC Culinary Management students: Help us develop new menu products, and we’ll repay you with a scholarship. Both instructors and students are excited about the idea.
 
Midwest Meals provides pre-packaged, ready-to-eat fresh (not frozen) meals for delivery or purchase at its store in Eau Claire’s Eastridge Center. The menu has dozens of options available from signature meals to dairy or gluten-free, as well as custom meals.
 
The menu, of course, needs to be continuously updated based on what’s selling. That’s where the students come in. They would design a meal to fit into one of the Midwest Meals packages and fitting into its healthy cuisine guidelines. A student who develops a meal that the company decides to offer on its menu earns a scholarship.
 
“The more ideas the better,” Beck said. “We can tap into multiple mindsets and come up with ideas we may not even think of.”
 
“This is a great opportunity for you young culinarians to get your name out there,” Kevin Brown, director of the CVTC Culinary Management program, told his students when introducing the plan. “Imagine having your name on their website.”
 
“There is nothing off the table for menu ideas, but it is quality-driven,” Beck told the group.
 
Students were excited about the opportunity.
 
“I think it’s kind of cool to get some of our ideas out there,” said Mitch Clark, a student from Menomonie. “It would be an opportunity for those who want to continue in the career to have their name out there.”
 
“It’s really exciting,” said Samantha Bauer of Eau Claire. It would be a great opportunity for us to be creative. I know myself I don’t think outside of the box very often.”
 
Erica Jones, a student from Beloit, was already thinking of what she would like to contribute. “Midwest Meals doesn’t have a lot of vegetarian options, and as I am a vegetarian, I’d like to offer some of my ideas. It’s a diet that’s gaining in popularity.”
 
With over 155 programs offered both online and on-campus, Chippewa Valley Technical College delivers superior, progressive technical education which improves the lives of students, meets the workforce needs of the region, and strengthens the community. CVTC programs are designed with input of business and industry to prepare graduates for today’s jobs, with 95 percent employed within six months of graduation and associate degree graduates earning an average annual salary of $46,816.
 
Cutlines:
Photo 1
CVTC Culinary Management student Samantha Bauer of Eau Claire stirs a roux that was to become an ingredient in a soup in the CVTC culinary kitchen. Bauer is one of the students excited about a program partnership with Midwest Meals that could earn her a scholarship.
 
Photo 2
CVTC Culinary Management student Mitch Clark of Menomonie chops vegetables in the CVTC culinary kitchen as his class worked on preparing soups. Clark is one of the students excited about a program partnership with Midwest Meals that could earn her a scholarship.

Women and Girls in Sports on “The West Side” on February 24
The evolution of women’s and girls’ sports in western Wisconsin will be the topic of discussion on “The West Side” at 10 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 24 on The Ideas Network Stations of Wisconsin Public Radio: 88.3 WHWC-FM/ Menomonie-Eau Claire and 88.7 WRFW-FM/ River Falls.
 
In the nearly 50 years since Title IX required collegiate and scholastic athletics opportunities for females to equal those offered to men, the sports landscape has changed. Host Dean Kallenbach will explore how things have evolved and where they are going for athletes who are female with guests Tonja Englund, the head coach of the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire women’s basketball team, UWEC women’s basketball team member Anna Graaskamp, Elizabeth Bohl, varsity volleyball coach for Bloomer High School and Jessika Rottier, assistant coach for the UW-Stevens Point women’s wrestling team.
 
“The West Side” is a call-in program focused on issues specific to western Wisconsin. The show is broadcast at 10 a.m. Mondays on The Ideas Network stations 88.3 WHWC-FM Menomonie/Eau Claire and 88.7 WRFW-FM River Falls and via an online live stream on 88.7 WRFW-FM University of Wisconsin River Falls via wrfw887.com/listen-live.html. Listeners may call in with questions and comments during the program at (800) 228-5615. Archives of “The West Side” are available at wpr.org/programs/west-side.

Musician Wayne Bergeron on “Spectrum West” February 20, 2020
 
Trumpeter Wayne Bergeron will be a guest on “Spectrum West,” which airs at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2020 on The Ideas Network stations 88.3 WHWC-FM/ Menomonie-Eau Claire and 88.7 WRFW-FM/ River Falls. The program will also include interviews with the director of play in Menomonie and a singer who will be performing in Eau Claire.
 
Host Al Ross will speak with Wayne Bergeron from his home in Los Angeles in anticipation of his upcoming performance with the Chippewa Valley Jazz Orchestra. The concert, which is a celebration of the 10th anniversary of CVJO, will be at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22 at The Pablo Center at the Confluence.
 
Correspondent Jim Oliver will welcome Bob Butterfield, director of the Menomonie Theater Guild production of “The Sunshine Boys.” The play is opening on Friday, Feb. 28 and running through Sunday, March 8 at The Mabel Tainter Center for the Arts in Menomonie.
 
Correspondent Katharine Thomas will be sharing her conversation with Jerrika Mighelle, a singer/songwriter. Mighelle will be appearing with guests Hemma (aka Hannah Hebl) and The Nunnery (aka Sarah Elstran) on Friday, Feb. 21 at the Pablo Center at the Confluence.
 
“Spectrum West” is a weekly program exploring the music, arts and humanities in western Wisconsin. The show includes in-depth behind-the-scenes interviews and stories about area writers, musicians, theater, visual arts and much more. The show is broadcast at 10 a.m. Thursdays on The Ideas Network stations 88.3 WHWC-FM Menomonie/Eau Claire and 88.7 WRFW-FM River Falls and via an online live stream on 88.7 WRFW-FM University of Wisconsin River Falls via wrfw887.com/listen-live.html.  A repeat broadcast plays at 7 p.m. Fridays on 89.7 WUEC-FM Eau Claire and 90.7 WVSS-FM/ Menomonie. Archives of “Spectrum West” are available at wpr.org/programs/spectrum-west-al-ross.

​Marco is proud to share that our workplace culture was nationally recognized making the Best and Brightest Company to Work For list. The honor was given out by the National Association for Business Resources – read more about the recognition here: https://www.marconet.com/press-releases/marco-named-one-of-the-best-and-brightest-companies-to-work-for
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“Marco’s positive workplace culture is the foundation our company was built on,” Marco Director of Human Resources Sara Lommel said. “This award shows us we’ve continued this tradition of putting our employees first and are dedicated to keeping our employees happy in the future.”

'Thursdays at the U' to focus on Census 2020
Rachael Manning, a Wisconsin partnership specialist for the U.S. Census Bureau, will present "Census 2020: Why Being Counted Counts" from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Feb. 20 during "Thursdays at the U" at UW-Eau Claire – Barron County in Rice Lake. Full story.
 
International Poetry Reading participants sought
Readers are sought for the 14th annual International Poetry Reading at UW-Eau Claire, to be held from 7-9 p.m. April 21 in the Dakota Ballroom (Room 340) of Davies Center. Full story.
 
Dr. Chandra Talpade Mohanty to be International Women's Day guest speaker
Mohanty, one of the world's leading feminist scholars, will present "Borders and Bridges: Neoliberal Regimes, Anti-Fascist Struggles and Insurgent Feminist Praxis" at 5 p.m. March 9 in Woodland Theater of Davies Center. Full story.

Housing Sales Remain Hot in January
Eau Claire, WI - Existing home sales and prices in Wisconsin continued to be on the rise in January, with sales up 8.9% compared to January 2019 and median price rising 8.6% since this time last year.
 
“Inventory is still low, both statewide and in our area, but we still saw an increase in sales in January across our region,” said RANWW Executive Vice President Brenda Barnhardt.
 
Statewide, more homes were sold in January 2020 than any other January going back to 2007, when the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association re-benchmarked its data collection methodology.
 
According to the January numbers from the WRA, Eau Claire County saw median prices on single family homes up 3.1%, with the number of sales increasing 4.2%, and the average days on market dropping by 9.5%. In Chippewa County, prices were up 10.5%, and homes sales increased by 41.0% with average days on market increasing 42.4%.
 
“With tight inventories, it's even more important to work with an experienced REALTOR® to move quickly when buyers are ready to make an offer,” said Gary Brenizer, RANWW board president.
 
The REALTORS® Association of Northwestern Wisconsin is the professional trade association that all professional REALTORS® residing within the association jurisdiction belong to. The association provides educational opportunities for its members, is active in local, state and national advocacy efforts, engages in community outreach through charitable giving, operates its own private foundation to help homeowners in need and remains a positive force for the members they serve.
 
For more information on the REALTORS® Association of Northwestern Wisconsin, log on to www.ranww.org 

Instructor Contacts:
Todd Anger, Eau Claire: zweefer@gmail.com
Don Hauser, Chippewa Falls:  don.hauser2@gmail.com
Veronica Knudsen, Elk Mound:  vjkkjv@yahoo.com
William Korb, Chippewa Falls:  korb@qisc.com
Randy Rykal, Cadott:  1rrykal@gmail.com
Publicity: Dean Kallenbach, Eau Claire:  deankallenbach@aol.com, 715-214-8498
 
Beekeeping 101 Course at Beaver Creek Reserve Now Taking Reservations
Beekeeping 101, an introductory class that explores the hobby of beekeeping, will be offered 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Mar. 7 at Beaver Creek Reserve in rural Fall Creek.
 
The class, staged by the Chippewa Valley Beekeepers Association, is designed to teach the basics to help new beekeepers get started.  The course is taught by veteran local beekeepers Randy Rykal of Cadott, Don Hauser and William Korb of Chippewa Falls, Veronica Knudsen of Elk Mound and Todd Anger of Eau Claire.
 
Topics include bee biology, bee behavior, siting a hive, acquiring bees, bee health, plants for your bees and early feeding for your bees. 
 
Cost of the class is $45, with a $5 discount for members of Beaver Creek Reserve.  Students are encouraged to bring a notebook.  Lunch can be ordered from Chicken Chasers for $8.00 at the time of reservation, or students can bring a sack lunch. 
 
Details about the class can be found or reservations can be made at BeaverCreekReserve.org, or by calling Beaver Creek Reserve at 715-877-2212.

Eau Claire, WI – Charter Bank is proud to announce and welcome Ericka Daken as our new Applicants Analyst. She will be working on the Information Technology team. Her role will include identifying, planning, and implementing new technology solutions to improve the accuracy and efficiency within the Bank as well as supporting existing technology solutions and automating repetitive processes.
 
Erik LeMay, Chief Information Officer for Charter Bank, says “Ericka joins the team with years of financial institution experience in a variety of roles. She is very analytical, learns quickly and is always willing to help wherever she can. She’ll be a great addition to the team and will make a positive impact on both the team and the entire bank. I’m glad that she decided to join the Charter Bank family!”
​
Daken come to Charter Bank after 14 years with Royal Credit Union. “I am looking forward to implementing solutions that will provide ease and value to both Charter Bank customers and employees,” states Daken.
 
Daken is originally from Chippewa Falls and currently resides in Lake Hallie with her husband Nick and their three children: two sons Tristan and Drake and daughter Chevee.

Congratulations to ESPY Specs on their ribbon cutting! 

Congratulations to Achieve Wellness on their ribbon cutting at CURT Manufacturing! 

University of WI Eau Claire
'One Read Eau Claire' monthly book discussion series kicks off Feb. 8
The discussion series, based around helping the community become more inclusive of difference, will feature 12 books for 12 months, on 15 different topics of importance in Eau Claire, as nominated by citizens at the 2020 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration in Eau Claire. Full story.
 
'Thursdays at the U' welcomes science fiction and fantasy author Kelly McCullough
The author will present "Fantastic Worlds, Writing and Publishing" from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Feb. 13 at UW-Eau Claire – Barron County in Rice Lake. Full story.
 
UW-Eau Claire remains among top U.S. producers of Fulbright students
UW-Eau Claire is again among the top five U.S. master’s universities for its number of students who receive Fulbright U.S. Student Program grants through the U.S. Department of State’s prestigious international educational exchange program. Full story.
 
The Fire Ball 2020, 'Pride Is a Riot,' set for Feb. 28-29
The must-see celebration will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Ojibwe Grand Ballroom of Davies Center at UW-Eau Claire with a pride theme meant to elevate important topics and voices in the LGBTQ+ community. Full story.
 
Student, faculty and alumni show: 'Elemental' set for Feb. 22-23
Notorious, a Blugold faculty/student music ensemble, and the Torch Sisters, a local group of artists, flow arts performers and aerialists, have joined to build a show that explores the seven elements of earth, water, space, air, metal, wood and fire. Full story.
 
 
 
HSHS Sacred Heart and St. Joseph’s hospitals launch Restorative Health series March 10
EAU CLAIRE – Let’s face it – chronic conditions certainly can make life challenging. But a challenging life does not have to be an unfulfilled life. In fact, learning how to manage a chronic condition can help you to live your best life. If you have diabetes – a chronic condition that affects more than 100 million U.S. adults – you’ll want to join HSHS Sacred Heart and St. Joseph’s hospitals for a presentation on how to better manage your diabetes and ultimately make your life easier.

The free presentation will take place Tuesday, March 10 at 29 Pines/Sleep Inn and Suites Conference Center. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the presentation begins at 6 p.m. Hear from local experts including a wound care physician, a certified family nurse practitioner and a registered dietitian. Resource booths and refreshments will be available.
Registration is required by calling 715-717-6565 or www.sacredhearteauclaire.org/Events-Classes.

This is the first installment of the two hospitals’ Restorative Health Series, which is designed to educate and support those who have a chronic health condition. Each unique installment will focus on new research, techniques for managing the disease and building a positive mindset for healthy living. Future installments will be scheduled throughout the year.

HSHS Sacred Heart and St. Joseph’s hospitals launch Restorative Health series March 10
EAU CLAIRE – Let’s face it – chronic conditions certainly can make life challenging. But a challenging life does not have to be an unfulfilled life. In fact, learning how to manage a chronic condition can help you to live your best life. If you have diabetes – a chronic condition that affects more than 100 million U.S. adults – you’ll want to join HSHS Sacred Heart and St. Joseph’s hospitals for a presentation on how to better manage your diabetes and ultimately make your life easier.

The free presentation will take place Tuesday, March 10 at 29 Pines/Sleep Inn and Suites Conference Center. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the presentation begins at 6 p.m. Hear from local experts including a wound care physician, a certified family nurse practitioner and a registered dietitian. Resource booths and refreshments will be available.
Registration is required by calling 715-717-6565 or www.sacredhearteauclaire.org/Events-Classes.

This is the first installment of the two hospitals’ Restorative Health Series, which is designed to educate and support those who have a chronic health condition. Each unique installment will focus on new research, techniques for managing the disease and building a positive mindset for healthy living. Future installments will be scheduled throughout the year.
 


ROYAL CREDIT UNION CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING/RIBBON CUTTING FOR
NEW ST. CROIX FALLS OFFICE
St. Croix Falls, WI – Royal Credit Union (Royal) hosted a grand opening and ribbon cutting celebration for a new office in St. Croix Falls on February 10, 2020. The office is located at 2175 US HWY 8 and features a full-service lobby, self-service coin machine, drive-up and ATM.
 
“We had outgrown our previous St. Croix Falls location and needed a larger facility to serve our existing Members and potential new Members, said Brandon Riechers, Royal Credit Union President & CEO. “St Croix Falls is a hub for groceries, shopping, and restaurants and is a destination point for Polk County residents. Royal is pleased to open our new location and is committed to continuing to make a positive impact in the lives we touch in the St. Croix Valley.”
The groundbreaking was attended by Falls Chamber of Commerce Vice President Bill Ties, and St. Croix Falls City Council President, Kirk Anderson. Royal’s St. Croix Falls Branch Manager Rhonda Anderson emceed the event. Royal worked with River Valley Architects and Hoeft Builders on construction of the facility.
 
In the spirit of making a difference, Royal donated $500 to the Star Education Foundation of St. Croix Falls. The Star Education Foundation’s mission is to enrich student lives and enhance education in an effort to ensure the success of the students.  Star Education Foundation board member, Rebecca Berg, accepted the gift and participated in the ribbon cutting ceremony.
 
The new St. Croix Falls office will feature teller services, new accounts, business services, consumer loans, home loans, investment services, and more. Royal also has a full-service office in Osceola, school site branches in St. Croix Falls and Balsam Lake, and ATMs in the Polk County Government Center and the Polk County Justice Center.
 
 

Library Hosts College Application Program
Students looking to stand out on college application essays are invited to learn strategies for tacking the Common App prompts at an upcoming library program. The L.E. Phillips Memorial Library in Eau Claire will host “Conquering the Common App” on Sunday, February 16 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. in the Eau Claire Room, located on the library’s lower level.
 
Registration is required for this free program. Register at www.ecpubliclibrary.info/teens or call 715-839-5007.
 
The program will be presented by Angie Nijhawan, M.Ed. As a college essay coach, tutor and editor, she has been active in the field of Education for 25 years.
 
For more information, stop at Youth Services on your next visit to the library, call 715-839-5007, or email ysstaff@eauclaire.lib.wi.us. To learn more about library programs, check the library’s website at www.ecpubliclibrary.info.
 
Retrieve Your Memories
The L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library in Eau Claire will host “The Story of Your Life: Writing your Forgotten Past,” on Tuesday, March 10 from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Eau Claire Room on the library’s lower level. How do we conjure our long forgotten stories? And how can we recall those details that we thought had vanished from our memories? There’s hope! And technique, too! Join author B.J. Hollars for a series of generative writing prompts sure to spur your memory, bring your past to the present, and help you write your life’s story. There is no charge to attend and all are welcome.
 
This event is co-sponsored by the Chippewa Valley Writers Guild and the local literary journal Barstow & Grand as part of “Eau Claire County Reads.” “Eau Claire County Reads” is a county-wide reading program encouraging literacy and community engagement. The selected title is A Man Called Ove, by Fredrik Backman, a comical and heart-warming tale of unkempt cats, unexpected friendship, and the ancient art of backing up a U-Haul. The program is co-sponsored by the Aging & Disability Resource Center of Eau Claire County, Altoona Public Library, Augusta Memorial Public Library, Fairchild Public Library, Fall Creek Public Library, and the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library. Learn more about “Eau Claire County Reads” at www.ecpubliclibrary.info/eccreads.
 
For information, stop at Information & Reference on your next visit to the library, call 715-839-5004, or email the library at librarian@eauclaire.lib.wi.us. To learn more about library programs, check the library website at www.ecpubliclibrary.info.
 
If you have a need for a sign language interpreter or other special accommodations, please notify Information & Reference (715-839-5004, librarian@eauclaire.lib.wi.us) at least 48 hours before the program.
 

 
Big Brothers Big Sisters
Eau Claire, WI (February 6, 2020) – In January Eau Claire City Council President Terry Weld, Chippewa Falls Mayor Greg Hoffman, and Menomonie Mayor Randy Knaack proclaimed Big Brothers Big Sisters ‘Thank Your Mentor Day’ in appreciation of the countless volunteer hours and support Big Brothers Big Sisters has from the community.
 
This January was the 19th year of National Mentoring Month which celebrates and highlights the importance of mentors in young children’s lives. Children with a mentor set higher goals for themselves, are less likely to use drugs and alcohol, and are more likely to reach higher levels of education. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Wisconsin aims to expand the awareness of mentoring and the positive impacts on children in the community.
 
Big Brothers Big Sisters works towards creating lasting relationships where children are able to reach their full potential. A survey of former child participants (Littles) from all over the nation found that Littles believe their mentors (Bigs) helped them significantly.
• 52% agreed their Big kept them from dropping out of high school.
• 77% agreed they were doing better in school because of their Big.
• 65% reported their Big helped them reach higher level of education than they thought possible.
 
“Mentoring has a strong impact on the young people in our community. Every year we see an increase in the number of children looking to join the program,” said Wesley Escondo, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Wisconsin.
 
Right now, there are over 150 children waiting to be matched. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Wisconsin aims to connect more youth in the community with adults to create lasting relationships.
 
‘Thank Your Mentor Day’ was January 30th, 2020. It was a day for everyone to thank their mentors and those who made a positive impact on them while growing up, but the opportunity to thank a mentor never ends. Show your support for all the mentors in your life by sending cards, sharing stories on social media and supporting mentoring programs.
 
Anyone interested in more information about volunteering or enrolling a child can call 800-648-1696, email info@bbbsnw.org, or visit bbbsnw.org.
 
About Big Brothers Big Sisters
Big Brothers Big Sisters provides children facing adversity, often those of single or low-income households or families where a parent is incarcerated or serving in the military, with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one mentoring relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.  Big Brothers Big Sisters holds itself accountable for children in its program to achieve measurable outcomes, such as educational success; avoidance of risky behaviors; and higher aspirations, greater confidence and better relationships. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Wisconsin serves hundreds of children annually in five counties: Chippewa, Dunn, Eau Claire, Pierce, & St. Croix. Learn how you can become a Defender of Potential  TM and positively impact a child’s life at www.bbbsnw.org.  Donate.  Volunteer.  Get Involved.
 

​
Wisconsin Public Radio
Racism Task Force Recommendations Discussed on “The West Side” on February 17
 The recommendations from a rapid action task force developed in response to racism at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire will be the topic of discussion on “The West Side” at 10 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 17 on The Ideas Network Stations of Wisconsin Public Radio: 88.3 WHWC-FM/ Menomonie-Eau Claire and 88.7 WRFW-FM/ River Falls.
 
Host Dean Kallenbach will welcome two co-chairs of the UWEC Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Rapid Action Task Force – Jan Larson, chair of the Communication and Journalism Department, and Kim Wudi, head coach for the Blugold women’s volleyball team. The task force was formed in the wake of two racist incidents at UWEC during the fall semester, and was charged with identifying issues and opportunities to improve the campus culture. The recommendations, and a plan to support the recommendations were announced this month.
 
“The West Side” is a call-in program focused on issues specific to western Wisconsin. The show is broadcast at 10 a.m. Mondays on The Ideas Network stations 88.3 WHWC-FM Menomonie/Eau Claire and 88.7 WRFW-FM River Falls and via an online live stream on 88.7 WRFW-FM University of Wisconsin River Falls via wrfw887.com/listen-live.html. Listeners may call in with questions and comments during the program at (800) 228-5615. Archives of “The West Side” are available at wpr.org/programs/west-side.
 
Author John Kinville on “Spectrum West” February 13, 2020
 A Chippewa Falls historian will talk about his new book that looks back at Ku Klux Klan activity in that community will be a guest on “Spectrum West,” which airs at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2020 on The Ideas Network stations 88.3 WHWC-FM/ Menomonie-Eau Claire and 88.7 WRFW-FM/ River Falls. The program will also include previews of upcoming concerts in Menomonie and Rice Lake, and an interview with the new director of a meal kitchen in Eau Claire.
 
Correspondent Katharine Thomas will be talking with Chippewa Falls author John Kinville about his book “The Grey Eagles of Chippewa Falls: A Hidden History of a Women’s Ku Klux Klan in Wisconsin.”  The book is about group of women known as “Women’s Klan No. 14” who existed in the area in the 1920s and early 30s. Kinville will have a book reading on Monday, Feb. 17 at The Heyde Center for the Arts in Chippewa Falls.
 
Saxophonist Sue Orfield and singer Jennifer Grimm will be joining host Al Ross in anticipation of a concert which will take place on Friday, Feb. 21 at the Mabel Tainter Theater in Menomonie. Orfield is artist-in-residence at The Mabel, and her next “Sue Orfield Presents” concert will include Grimm singing classics and originals accompanied by the band Sue Orfield & Friends.
 
Robin Fossum, president of The Red Cedar Symphony Orchestra of Rice Lake, will be talking with Ross about its upcoming “Homegrown Concert” which will take place on Sunday, Feb. 16. The concert, now in its third year, will feature orchestra members performing established classics within smaller ensembles.
 
Ross will be welcoming T.J. Atkins to the show this week. Atkins is the new executive director of The Community Table, an Eau Claire free meal kitchen and community service organization. Atkins is an alum of the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and the University of Wisconsin-Stout, having previously worked in health care outreach.
 
“Spectrum West” is a weekly program exploring the music, arts and humanities in western Wisconsin. The show includes in-depth behind-the-scenes interviews and stories about area writers, musicians, theater, visual arts and much more. The show is broadcast at 10 a.m. Thursdays on The Ideas Network stations 88.3 WHWC-FM Menomonie/Eau Claire and 88.7 WRFW-FM River Falls and via an online live stream on 88.7 WRFW-FM University of Wisconsin River Falls via wrfw887.com/listen-live.html.  A repeat broadcast plays at 7 p.m. Fridays on 89.7 WUEC-FM Eau Claire and 90.7 WVSS-FM/ Menomonie. Archives of “Spectrum West” are available at wpr.org/programs/spectrum-west-al-ross.

Congratulations to Red Coal BBQ on their ribbon cutting at their new location! 

​Eau Claire, WI – A new agreement will allow qualified Chippewa Valley Technical College students to enroll in Wisconsin’s leading university as transfer students. The University of Wisconsin – Madison and CVTC recently finalized the Liberal Arts-Associate of Science Transfer Program agreement.
 
“This is a tremendous opportunity for area students who would like to earn a degree from Wisconsin’s most prestigious public university to begin their journey at CVTC,” said Dr. Julie Furst-Bowe, vice president of instruction at CVTC. “The program will allow them to earn credits toward that degree at much lower cost and while living close to home.”
 
Under the agreement, UW – Madison will offer a transfer contract to students who begin as college freshmen in CVTC’s Liberal Arts – Associate of Science program and declare an intent to use the contract to gain admission to UW-Madison. Students must still meet requirements for admission to UW-Madison and meet specified levels of academic achievement at CVTC in order to transfer. Students must also meet any additional requirements for admission to specific UW-Madison programs.
 
The program requires students to earn a minimum of 54 transferrable credits before transferring and may use UW-Madison credits for completion of their associate degree.
 
"We are pleased to partner with CVTC to provide an enrollment pathway to UW-Madison" said Andre Phillips, director of admissions and recruitment. "The academic foundation CVTC students will obtain in the Liberal Arts-Associate of Science program aligns nicely with many bachelor’s degree offerings on our campus for a seamless transfer process.”

Search Opens for Eau Claire Writer in Residence
The Literary Arts Committee of Pablo Center at the Confluence is looking for the next Eau Claire Writer in Residence, to be recommended for appointment by the City Council in April.  To apply or to submit a nomination, visit www.ecpubliclibrary.info/writerinresidence. Deadline for submitting a nomination is March 1.

The Writer in Residence shall seek to raise our consciousness to a greater appreciation and enjoyment of the value and importance of the reading, performance, publication and writing of literature to the life of Eau Claire and its people. Candidates will be considered based on the following criteria adopted by the City Council on May 26, 2015:

Recommended for an appointment by the City Council, for a two year term, by a sub-committee of the ECRAC Literary Arts Committee, in April of each even numbered year.

Expected to live and/or work in the community.
Expected to have knowledge of, and be involved in, the life of the community.
Expected to contribute to the growth of literature in the community.
Expected to promote literature through a variety of social media, written publications, and educational opportunities and speaking engagements.
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The current Eau Claire Writer in Residence, Karen Loeb, will be finishing her two-year appointment in May.

Local Recording Studio Owner Evan Middlesworth Chosen As Director Of Artistic Programming From National Search
​​EAU CLAIRE, WIS. (January 30, 2020) – After a national search with over 45 applicants, Pablo Center at the Confluence is pleased to announce the appointment of Evan Middlesworth to the position of Director of Artistic Programming, effective immediately.  During his interim term as the Artistic Programming Manager, Middlesworth brought an exciting new direction to Pablo Center’s lineup by booking artists such as Charlie Berens, The Secret Sisters, Arch Allies, and local musicians S. Carey, Shane Leonard, James Ignacio, and Humbird for the second half of Season Two. Middlesworth’s focus for Season Three is to establish new creative relationships with national and international agencies, promoters, and artists while continuing to champion the Chippewa Valley arts communities.  
 
Executive Director Jason Jon Anderson looks forward to bringing Middlesworth’s talents and connections to Pablo Center at the Confluence. 
 
“It is reflective of the Pablo Center’s values and story to find a candidate with passion, talent, and a diverse collection of skills right here in Eau Claire,” says Anderson.  “I firmly believe that Evan's international live music connections, passion for education, local affiliations, recording studio ownership, his passion for Eau Claire, and his ever-present calm make him a perfect choice for this important role.  I am excited for our audience to experience Pablo Center’s offerings: programming that highlights the best local artists, along with the incredible national additions.  The artistic team has curated an incredible spring lineup as well as made great progress on Season Three.”
 
While studying for his bachelor of science in sound design at Purdue University, Middlesworth started building a diversified career around various avenues of the entertainment industry, both on stage and behind the scenes by being open to and accepting any opportunity based around music, audio, or theatre.  His positive approach and drive led to him working for LOUD Technologies; founding Driftless Artist Management and Pine Hollow Audio; touring with The National, EL VY, and Big Thief as an audio engineer; stage managing the Eaux Claires and Boston Calling music festivals; performing with countless bands across many genres; and composing music for theatres nationally.  He also funnels his desire to help others by volunteering to speak with students about life in the entertainment and music industries.  Outside of entertainment, Middlesworth is passionate about aviation and received his pilots license in August 2018.  Exploring from the air and taking his wife Laura on fly-dates acts as a form of relaxation and continued learning. 
 
“We have the team, the knowledge, and the tools to dream up and bring to life any idea across all artistic platforms right here, and that’s a very exciting realization to have!  We’ll face challenges along the way, however, our team and our community will adapt, learn, and grow together as we move along - if we keep our minds and our hearts in the right place, a positive outcome will be easier than we thought.  All things are simple, once you know how,” says Middlesworth.

​On behalf of the Eau Claire Chamber Educational Foundation, we are proud to announce the transition of the “Real Life Academy” program to Royal Credit Union’s “Test Drive…Next Stop Reality.” The transition will be complete by the end of 2020.  Over the last several years, Royal has been the major supporter of Real Life Academy and operates its own reality fair, Test Drive, for high school students in other communities like Rice Lake and Eden Prairie, MN.  Both programs share the same mission and objective, to provide high school students a real-life simulation of money and finances.  By partnering on this initiative moving forward, the two organizations hope to expand the use of technology and the ability to positively impact even more local high school students.
​
The Eau Claire Chamber Educational Foundation will conduct the event formally through the 2020 calendar year with the major change being implementation of the curriculum for “Test Drive… Next Stop Reality” immediately. This will be in place for the Spring 2020 event and Fall 2020 event, with a full transition taking place in 2021. Through this partnership, we will continue to ask the business community to support this program by volunteering and interacting with the students, as that is a critical piece to its success.

If you have any further questions regarding this transition, please reach out to myself or Jen McHugh, Director of Public Affairs & Financial Education with Royal Credit Union (jennifer.mchugh@rcu.org). 

​'Midwest Queeritivities' to encourage constructive dialogue
"Midwest Queeritivities" is a UW-Eau Claire Foster Gallery exhibit consisting of multimedia art and literary works that illuminate queer identities and their relationships to other cultures in the Midwest. The exhibit will run from Feb. 14-March 11, with an opening reception on Feb. 27. Full story.

Retiring professor helped build nationally recognized business programs at UW-Eau Claire Dr. Robert Erffmeyer, who will retire in February, helped UW-Eau Claire build MBA and sales programs that are considered among the top programs of their kind in the country. Full story.
 
Viennese Ball ticket sales begin Feb. 3
Ticket sales begin Monday, Feb. 3, for the 46th annual Viennese Ball at UW-Eau Claire, to be held April 3 and 4 in the W.R. Davies Student Center. Full story.
 
Blugold leads St. Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin's legal team
Ashley Duffy, who graduated from UW-Eau Claire in 2014 with a major in American Indian studies and a minor in anthropology, is the general counsel for the St. Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin. Full story.
 
'Ask a Scientist' kicks off spring series with infectious disease expert
Dr. Larry Lutwick, an infectious disease specialist at Mayo Clinic Health System-Eau Claire, will present "Epidemics in a Connected World" at 7 p.m. Feb. 13 to open the spring "Ask a Scientist" series at the Acoustic Café in downtown Eau Claire. Full story.
 
Dr. David Shih receives 2020 MLK Social Justice Leadership Award
Shih, who was honored Feb. 5 during UW-Eau Claire's annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, was recognized for his leadership in promoting equity, diversity and inclusion on campus and in the greater Chippewa Valley. Full story.

​Eau Claire, WI – January 31, 2020 – CURT Group, a leading sales, marketing, engineering and distribution company of towing products and truck accessories, is opening a local Associate Wellness Clinic for employees and their families. The new clinic will provide a wide variety of basic medical services and routine care at a fractional price, helping to alleviate the burden of rising healthcare costs.
 
CURT Group has partnered with a third-party workplace health provider, Achieve Wellness, to launch the new Eau Claire-based clinic. The clinic will be staffed with a full-time licensed nurse practitioner and administrative support personnel. Services offered will include basic health care, comprehensive wellness services, occupational health services, immunizations and flu shots.
 
The Associate Wellness Clinic will be located at 1417 Winchester Way, Altoona, WI, 54720, Suite 6. The community is invited to a ribbon cutting ceremony and open house on Thursday, February 18, 2020 from 3pm-6pm to help celebrate the grand-opening of the new facility.

​ONLY TWO WEEKS REMAIN IN MATCH DEADLINE, CHARTER BANK GIVES FIT FOR THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN $50,000 BOOST
The L.E. Phillips Senior Center is honored to receive a donation in the amount of $50,000 from Charter Bank. This wonderful investment in the “Fit for the Future” Campaign will go far in helping it meet the expansion fundraising goals. A big deadline is approaching as the Center has been challenged to raise 1.1 million dollars by February 14, 2020, and when it does, the L.E. Phillips Family Foundation will match it.
L.E. Phillips Senior Center Board President Jim Deignan says, “Charter Bank sees the value in expanding our fitness and community room areas to better serve the massive number of seniors who want to experience successful aging like only our center can deliver.” 
Thank you to the wonderful people at Charter Bank who are investing in the future health of our seniors! 
The latest total had the campaign at $759,535.59!
Fit for the Future Campaign Donations:
The Eau Claire Community Foundation website
Charitable IRA Rollover
Checks to the L.E. Phillips Senior Center
Mary Pica-Anderson
Phone: (715) 839-4909

Chili from area restaurants will be available at the 26th Annual Chili Cookoff, sponsored by WNB Financial, on Saturday, February 8, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Winona Middle School. This year’s celebrity judging will be emceed by Visit Winona’s Kate Carlson and take place on the main stage for the first time ever! Attendees will enjoy entertainment from the Just for Kix dancers, the Genbu-Kai Karate Group, as well as 3D printer demonstrations throughout the day from the Winona State University Chemistry Club.

All proceeds from the Chili Cookoff benefit Ready Set School, which will kick-off its annual fundraising campaign with a short program at 11:50 a.m. The Chili Cookoff will feature mild and spicy chili judged by a panel of local celebrities: Christie Ransom (Winona Area Chamber of Commerce), Gabe Glidden (Leighton Broadcasting), Janneke Sobeck (Winona Family YMCA), Sergeant Kevin Kearney (Winona Police Department), Kyle Rupprecht (Midwest Bank in Lewiston), Paul Daly (Leighton Broadcasting), Paul Van Eijl (Little Caesars, Winona), and Dr. Troy Shelton (Winona Health).

​Chili tickets are available in advance for $10 at all three WNB Financial offices in Winona. The chili will also be available for $12 all-you-can-eat at the event, and the public is invited to judge the chili to determine the winner of this year’s coveted Public Tasters’ Choice Award. In addition, there will be a $1 hot dog meal (hot dog, chips, and a drink) and other food and beverages available for purchase. Currently, 15 businesses have entered the chili competition: Bluff Country Co-op, Bub’s Brewing Company, Brewski’s Pub and Grill, Chartwell’s at Winona State University, Culver’s of Winona, Green Mill, Ground Round, Kwik Trip on Homer Road, Riverway Learning Community, Signatures Restaurant, Steak Shop Catering, Sugar Loaf Senior Living, Winona Area Public Schools, Winona Health Catering, and Winona VFW Post 1287. Ready Set School was created to ensure that all Winona County children have the basic and necessary supplies to better succeed in school. For more information, please call Ready Set School Director Mandi Olson at 507-474-2588.

​HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital offers prenatal classes in March 
EAU CLAIRE – If you’re a soon-to-be parent, you likely have a lot of questions about what to expect during pregnancy, labor and delivery, and more. HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital’s Women and Infants Center is offering free prenatal education classes for first-time parents and those who would like a refresher Mondays, March 2, 9, 16 and 23, at 6:30 p.m. in the Monsignor Klimek Auditorium (lower level) at the hospital, 900 West Clairemont Ave.

The hospital is also offering a prenatal class Saturday, March 21, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Monsignor Klimek Auditorium (lower level) at the hospital. This is a one-day class that covers the same information as the several-week series.

In addition, the hospital is offering a prenatal siblings class Tuesday, March 17, at 4:30 p.m. in Bishop Treacy (lower level) at the hospital. This class will help prepare three- to 10-year-olds for the changes that may occur in their families.

These classes are free but registration is required by visiting www.sacredhearteauclaire.org/Events-Classes. For more information, call 715-717-4156.
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Donate blood at HSHS Sacred Heart and St. Joseph’s hospitals
CHIPPEWA FALLS – There’s always a great need for whole blood from healthy donors. It’s a valuable resource that’s in short supply. To help bridge that gap, HSHS Sacred Heart and St. Joseph’s hospitals are hosting American Red Cross blood drives.

On Tuesday, February 25, HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital is hosting a blood drive from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in McDonald Hall, 2661 County Hwy I, Chippewa Falls. To schedule an appointment, call 1-800-733-2767 or visit www.RedCrossBlood.org and enter “St. Josephs” (no apostrophe).

On Wednesday, March 11, HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital is hosting a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Monsignor Klimek Auditorium, 900 West Clairemont Ave. Eau Claire. To schedule an appointment, call 1-800-733-2767 or visit www.RedCrossBlood.org and enter “Sacred Heart Hospital.”

“RapidPass” is also available. Visit www.redcrossblood.org/RapidPass on the same day as the drive and complete your health history before you come in to donate. This option can help speed up the process.

Eligible donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health and feeling well.

Winning at Winter
The L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library in Eau Claire presents “Winning at Winter,” a free program on Tuesday, February 18 from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Eau Claire Room on the library’s lower level. Learn how some of our furry friends survive Northern Wisconsin winters, along with tips and tricks to help you be more comfortable and safe outdoors during cold weather.
 
“Winning at Winter” is presented by Ruth Forsgren, a graduate of UW–Stevens Point in Environmental Education and naturalist at Beaver Creek Reserve for the past 28 years. This program is co-sponsored by Beaver Creek Reserve and Wintermission Eau Claire, a grant-based initiative to make it easier for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with one another, visit public spaces, and be active in winter.
 
Wintermission Eau Claire is also partnering with the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library and the Altoona Public Library to provide snowshoes, ice fishing, and Kubb kits that can be checked out for free with a library card. Visit www.more.lib.wi.us and search for “Wintermission” to request a kit, or call your home library for assistance. You will also be able to check out sleds, hockey equipment, snowshoes, and other winter recreation items at Pinehurst Park in Eau Claire.
 
For information, stop at Information & Reference on your next visit to the library, call 715-839-5004, or email the library at librarian@eauclaire.lib.wi.us. To learn more about library programs, check the library website at www.ecpubliclibrary.info.
 
Jump-Start Your Imagination
The L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library in Eau Claire presents “Imagination Workshop,” a free program on Thursday, March 26 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Eau Claire Room on the library’s lower level. Eau Claire’s Writer in Residence Karen Loeb will lead participants in verbal and written exercises to help free their imaginations and further their creative efforts. While this workshop will focus on bringing imagination to writing, people engaged in any artistic pursuit will benefit, and leave with several starts to their project. Space is limited, and registration is required.
Visit www.ecpubliclibrary.info/imagination to register.
 
Karen Loeb’s stories and poems have appeared in Thema, Gyroscope Review, Hanging Loose and other magazines. She has won both fiction and poetry contests in Wisconsin People & Ideas magazine. She is a retired creative writing professor from UW–Eau Claire and current Writer in Residence for the City of Eau Claire.
 
For information, stop at Information & Reference on your next visit to the library, call 715-839-5004, or email the library at librarian@eauclaire.lib.wi.us. To learn more about library programs, check the library website at www.ecpubliclibrary.info.

ECPSF Announces 2020 Golden Apple Awards
The Eau Claire Public Schools Foundation is thrilled to announce the 2020 Golden Apple Award recipients! The Golden Apple is awarded to one outstanding educator or staff member in each of the twenty Eau Claire Area School District schools and one amongst the district-wide support roles; all recipients are nominated by their peers. The Eau Claire Public Schools Foundation partners with generous area businesses to honor and recognize exceptional service to our students and families.
2020 Golden Apple recipients:

The Eau Claire Area School District honors Homeless Coordinator Dani Claesges
Chippewa Valley Montessori Charter School honors Special Education Assistant Michele Branco
DeLong Middle School honors Math Teacher Ben Albrecht
Flynn Elementary School honors 5th Grade Teacher Cheryl Lawrence
Lakeshore Elementary honors Art Teacher Erin Janke
Locust Lane Elementary honors Reading Teacher Wendy Arneson
Longfellow Elementary School honors Playground Supervisor Denise Hoenisch
Manz Elementary School honors Instructional Coach Debra Erickson
McKinley Charter School honors School Secretary Mary Schlageter
Meadowview Elementary School honors Special Education Teacher Erin Peters
Memorial High School honors Special Education Teacher Tracy Moran
North High School honors Science Teacher Kevin Mesiar
Northstar Middle School honors 6th Grade Teacher Tim Camlek
Northwoods Elementary School honors General School Assistant Karen Holman
Prairie Ridge Early Learning Center honors EC4T Teacher Mariah Halling
Putnam Heights Elementary School honors Literacy Coach Elissa Knight
Robbins Elementary School honors Special Education Teacher Kelly Custer
Roosevelt Elementary School honors 1st Grade Teacher Brittany Ferrell
Sam Davey Elementary School honors School Secretary Jean Derfus
Sherman Elementary School honors Kindergarten Teacher Janessa Derleth
South Middle School honors Spanish Teacher Jacqueline Strayer
​
Each year, ECPSF partners with WEAU 13 News’ Bob Gallaher to surprise each of the honorees in their buildings. Tune in to the surprise visits on the 6pm WEAU 13 News with Bob Gallaher, airing one honoree/school per weekday all through February! The Golden Apple festivities culminate with a banquet on Thursday, April 16 at Wild Ridge. To learn more about the Golden Apple Awards, or how you can make a gift in honor of an honoree, please contact ECPSF Executive Director Sarah French at sarahfrench@ecpsfound.org or (715) 852-3015.  

​Bela Fleck on “Spectrum West” February 7, 2020
Banjoist Bela Fleck will be a guest on “Spectrum West,” which airs at 10 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 7, 2020 on The Ideas Network stations 88.3 WHWC-FM/ Menomonie-Eau Claire and 88.7 WRFW-FM/ River Falls. The program will also include interviews with a psychology professor, the director of a play in Barron and an editor of Eau Claire’s “Volume One.”
 
Host Al Ross will welcome Bela Fleck back to the show along with fellow banjoist and wife Abigail Washburn in anticipation of their upcoming performance on Feb. 7 at The Pablo Center at the Confluence in Eau Claire. The three will be sampling music from their newest album “Echo in the Valley.”
 
Charles Snowdon, psychology Professor Emeritus at University of Wisconsin-Madison will be a guest. He and Ross will discuss his research regarding the effects of music on domestic animals.
 
Correspondent Jim Oliver will talk with Dave Blumer, director of the play “Arsenic and Old Lace” put on by the Barron Spotlighters. The production is running through Sunday, Feb. 9 at the Barron Area Community Center.
 
Mike Paulus, online editor at “Volume One,” will visit the show to give an insider’s look at their “Best of the Chippewa Valley” reader’s poll, which annually names local favorites in many categories from arts and entertainment to services.
 
“Spectrum West” is a weekly program exploring the music, arts and humanities in western Wisconsin. The show includes in-depth behind-the-scenes interviews and stories about area writers, musicians, theater, visual arts and much more. The show is broadcast at 10 a.m. Thursdays on The Ideas Network stations 88.3 WHWC-FM Menomonie/Eau Claire and 88.7 WRFW-FM River Falls and via an online live stream on 88.7 WRFW-FM University of Wisconsin River Falls via wrfw887.com/listen-live.html.  A repeat broadcast plays at 7 p.m. Fridays on 89.7 WUEC-FM Eau Claire and 90.7 WVSS-FM/ Menomonie. Archives of “Spectrum West” are available at wpr.org/programs/spectrum-west-al-ross.