11th Annual Lemonade Day - Boys & Girls Clubs of the greater Chippewa Valley
Downtown Eau Claire, Inc. is excited to announce the winner of the semi-annual downtown enhancement grant, ambient inks
Two Local Attorneys Elected Firm ShareholdersPictured Left Benjamin Ludeman, Right Sven Strutz Eau Claire, WI - The law firm of Weld Riley, S.C. is pleased to announce Attorneys Benjamin D. Ludeman and Sven W. Strutz have been elected shareholders of the firm. “I am truly humbled that my colleagues recently elected me as a shareholder. I look forward to continuing to provide legal services for new and existing clients and being a part of this wonderful community,” Ludeman said. Ludeman is a member of the firm’s Business, Probate and Estate Planning, and Municipal Law Sections. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, with a B.S. in Criminal Justice and his law degree from William Mitchell College of Law, where he graduated with honors. While in law school, Ludeman worked for Hennepin County in its Child Support and Civil Divisions.. Strutz is a member of the firm’s Labor and Employment Section, working primarily in the area of school law. He advises and represents numerous school districts throughout the State of Wisconsin. Strutz graduated with a degree in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and graduated with honors from the University of Wisconsin-Madison Law School. “It is an honor to be asked to join the shareholders at Weld Riley. I look forward to future opportunities to provide clients, particularly school districts throughout Wisconsin, with the superior legal advice and service they have come to expect from our firm,” Strutz added. Weld Riley, S.C. has offices in Eau Claire, Black River Falls, Wausau, and Menomonie and serves families, private sector businesses, and public sector clients, including school districts, county governments, and many municipalities around western Wisconsin. Reps. Kind, Kelly Introduce Legislation to Protect Independent Music and Entertainment venues through COVID-19
CVTC Grad’s Career Change is ‘Something for Myself’ |
![]() Eau Claire, WI – Contemplating a late-life career change, Deb Van Den Heuvel was in a position to do something for herself, unrestrained by child-rearing duties or societal norms that she dealt with growing up. Chippewa Valley Technical College turned out to be the perfect place for her to strike out on a new path as a machinist. “My kids were getting out of college, and I wanted to do something for myself,” said Van Den Huevel, 52, who splits time between Mondovi and Gilman. “I had been sitting in an office all day and wanted to do something more active.” | ![]()
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Opportunity to help the coin shortage while helping families in need
When: August 11th, 2020, 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Where: Northwestern Bank-River Prairie 1430 Rivers Edge Trail Altoona, WI 54720 Interviews: Sandi Polzin, Hope Gospel Mission Sarah Stokes, Event Sponsor Jerry Jacobson, President, Northwestern Bank Photos/Video: Families donating change at Northwestern Bank Altoona, WI – We are in the midst of a national coin shortage and community members have the opportunity to help circulate change and make a difference August 11th. Donate jars of change to Hope Gospel Mission’s Change for Kids fundraiser and help to recirculate coins into the community. The pandemic slowed the flow of coins circulating through businesses all across the country, and local businesses are facing a challenge of having to ask for only card payments. | ![]()
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Merchants' second quarter earnings report shows stable performance and continued COVID-19 Relief assistance
Second quarter earnings of $8,442,992 were behind MFGI’s 2020 plan by $346,298 and behind 2019 mid-year results by $484,989. June earnings were profitable for MFGI even though the Company reversed $4 million out of income in the form of additional Allowance for Loan/Lease Loss Reserves as a precautionary measure to cover potential loan risk as the challenging economic situation continues to unfold.
“Our profitable performance through two quarters is a source of pride for our extraordinary employee team, which has been intensely focused on assisting our customers and communities experiencing hardship due to the COVID pandemic,” said Evans. “Most gratifying is the feedback I’ve received from clients who are appreciative of how our bankers have been available to them in serving as trusted advisors at this difficult time.”
Since March, Merchants has provided relief to more than 1,300 consumer and business loan customers in good standing in the form of loan payment deferment programs across all product categories. The Bank continues to assist business customers across its footprint with Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) financing through the Small Business Administration and will be accepting applications through the August 8, 2020 deadline. Merchants has been one of Minnesota’s PPP banking leaders, originating more than 1,500 loans with total volume of approximately $200 million. In addition, Merchants reported a 16.1% increase in deposits and origination volume of $478 million of residential mortgage loans through the first half of the year, as customers take advantage of the current interest rate environment.
“We want our customers and communities to know that Merchants will continue to be a source of assistance for those hit hardest by the pandemic and that we take our responsibility as a community bank seriously. We’re here to be your financial partner as you navigate challenges in the coming months,” Evans noted.
Royal Credit Union Announces New Corporate Risk Manager
Prior to joining Royal’s team, Fisher accumulated 13 years of experience in the fields of risk management, regulatory examination, and audit. Fisher holds a Bachelor’s degree of Business Economics which she obtained from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire.
Fisher currently resides in Eau Claire with her husband Greg and two children, Taylor and Camden. Fisher has volunteered with Junior Achievement of Wisconsin, Feed My People, and Bolton Refuge House along with helping at her children’s schools as a way give back to the community.
In-person early voting: For residents of the City of Eau Claire, drive-through (or walk-through) voting will be available behind City Hall weekdays through August 7, the Friday before the election. Altoona, the Town of Washington, and other municipalities are also offering early voting options. See the links below.
Absentee voting by mail: The other option for voters who don't want to vote in person on election day is to request an absentee ballot by mail at myvotewi.gov
Election information links for your municipality:
City of Eau Claire (behind City Hall, weekdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Aug 7)
City of Altoona (City Hall, weekdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Aug 7)
Town of Washington (Town Municipal Building, 5750 Old Town Hall Road, Mon-Thu, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Aug 7)
List of municipal clerks for other locations in Eau Claire County (contact the clerk in your town or village for early voting information)
Information about your voter registration, your polling place, and absentee voting:
myvotewi.gov
More information about local races and candidates:
The Chamber's Guide to the 2020 Election
Posted by Scott Rogers, Governmental Affairs & Workforce Director
rogers@eauclairechamber.org
REACH, INC. HIRES NEW CEO

Mr. Breaker has been working in public programs that serve child and adults with varying abilities, multiple chronic conditions, and frailties of aging for over 30 years. Mr. Breaker has been active with public programs that have changed services in the State of Wisconsin for the past 20 years such as Self-Directed Services, Aging & Disability Resource Centers, Family Care and IRIS. His focus is on quality, strategic planning, program development, management, data analysis and business operations. Mr. Breaker loves to build up programs, create solutions in the most difficult situations, work in complex systems, and stay focused on the customer.
On being hired to lead Reach, Inc., Mr. Breaker said, “Reach’s impact on each person and families is amazing. I am very excited to be part of the future that Reach has to offer the Chippewa Valley.”
Mr. Breaker has his BS from UW-Oshkosh in Human Services and a minor in Wellness Promotion. He earned his MS in Organizational Leadership and Quality from Marian College in Fond du Lac. Mr. Breaker lives with his family in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
Home Sales Less Impacted in June
Eau Claire, WI - With the economy starting to rebound, home sales in Wisconsin were less impacted in June compared to May's slowdown. “The pandemic led to a big slide in sales in May, but we're seeing home sales pick back up in our area and across the state,” said RANWW Executive Vice President Brenda Barnhardt. | ![]()
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Royal Credit Union uses Grant to study effectiveness of Financial Education Program in Correctional Facilities
Royal offers educational programs in county jail facilities in Rice Lake, Menomonie and Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Royal also has a program in the WI Department of Correction’s Chippewa Valley Correctional Treatment Facility in Chippewa Falls. Royal used the grant funds to develop a tool to measure skill development, attitude changes and predictive behaviors upon completion of the financial education course. Data collection started in January 2020 and had planned to continue for 5 months. Unfortunately, the correctional facility financial education program had to be suspend in early March as a result of the COVID-19 global pandemic.
Preliminary analyses of the survey data that was collected in January and February of 2020 showed statistically significant gains in attitudes and confidence levels regarding financial literacy. Identifying predatory lending behaviors, understanding there are different ways to pay down debt, and comprehensive awareness of the impact of credit scores/reports were a few of the topics where students showed gains. In addition, course participants were asked to rate their satisfaction with the course and instructor. Overall, the responses indicated high levels of satisfaction in both areas.
Royal remains committed to its correctional facility financial education program and will resume providing in person courses as soon as it is safe while also looking into the possibility of offering virtual lessons. “We look forward to collecting and publishing data that will show the impact of the program on a much larger scale.” said Jennifer McHugh, Royal’s Vice President of Community Engagement. In light of the recent events and increased awareness of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, this program offers an opportunity to support a marginalized population. We believe it can play a small role in creating the systemic change that is required in our society and commend NCUF for being early supporters of this unique credit union program.”
RCU Foundation Announces Giving Total For Virtual Rock The Riverfront Featuring The Charity Classic

The proceeds are being donated to three partner charities: Family Support Center of Chippewa Falls, National Alliance on Mental Illness Chippewa Valley and New Horizons Shelter and Outreach Centers in Whitehall. Mental health and domestic violence have emerged as two prevalent issues during the global pandemic and the event is providing support to these organizations at a critical time. Registered participants received one free vote at the time of registration; additional votes were available to be purchased online at $2 each. Family Support Center of Chippewa Falls earned 49% of the votes and will be awarded a $15,000 donation, National Alliance on Mental Illness Chippewa Valley earned 40% of the votes and will receive $7,500, and New Horizons Shelter and Outreach Centers in Whitehall will receive $5,000 after earning 11% of the vote.
The RCU Foundation’s Rock the Riverfront featuring the Charity Classic included a 10K and 2 mile walk/run, a youth race, virtual adult and kid’s challenges, the increasingly popular Rock Hunt and lots of prizes. Save the date for next year’s Rock the Riverfront on Saturday, June 26, 2021.
Royal Credit Union Donates $20,000 Plus Additional Match Funds To Frogtown & Rondo Community Business Recovery Fund

Three community groups work together to manage the fund—Summit-University Planning Council, Frogtown Neighborhood Association, and Victoria Arts Theater Center. An executive committee is making award decisions and going door-to-door to talk with local business owners and see the needs firsthand. "These businesses hold down the community and we want to support and rebuild to prevent the domino effect of loss of community,” said Jens Werner, Executive Director of Summit-University Planning Council. “Receiving this level of support from Royal Credit Union is a powerful message of hope and love for our community, and a reminder of brighter days to come."
Some of the most common needs include replacing large-pane windows on storefronts and removing graffiti. A local daycare got a bill for $4,000 to replace glass in their facility. With help from the Community Business Recovery Fund they are working to make these important repairs.
The Frogtown and Rondo neighborhoods in St. Paul are a half mile south of Royal’s Rice St. location and were an epicenter of property damage, particularly along University Ave. W. It is served by the Summit-University Planning Council and the Frogtown Neighborhood Association, which work to create opportunities for residents to learn about what is happening in their neighborhood and collaborate to improve the quality of life.
“Royal Credit Union is proud to be a member of the St. Paul business community and we have been deeply saddened that the neighbors we serve have experienced such hardship and loss. Royal’s core purpose is to make a positive impact in the lives we touch and, by supporting this fund, we hope to make a difference as the Frogtown and Rondo neighborhoods rebuild and recover,” shared Brandon Riechers, President of Royal Credit Union.
To support this vital recovery work, a portion of Royal’s donation will be used for a match campaign. Donations made to the fund from July 23 through August 6 will be matched, up to $10,000. Donations can be made at https://www.givemn.org/story/Uf3tsf.
University of Wisconsin Eau Claire
UW-Eau Claire was a primary benefactor of Don and Leatrice Mathison's generosity. Since Don first gave his alma mater $100 in 1979, the couple’s accelerated giving rose to more than $1 million. Full story.
Grad builds career using her passion for political science and public health
Aimee Gillespie graduated in 2019 with a major in political science and a minor in public health. She's using her expertise in and passion for both fields as she pursues a career in public health. Full story.
Gen 2 Blugold Beginnings: Cousins join the program
When brothers Adrian and Juan Wilson attended UW-Eau Claire as math and science campers in the 1990s, then later as undergrads, they had no idea that someday their own children might also find a home in UWEC programs and classrooms. Full story.
Current and future Blugolds show interest in new public health major
UW-Eau Claire's new public health major already is drawing interest from current and future Blugolds who want to study and solve the many problems threatening the health and well-being of populations around the world, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Full story.
National Independent Venue association (NIVA) Applauds Bi-Partisan Relief Bill, Save our stages act will assist independent venues during this pandemic
Senators Cornyn and Klobuchar Come Together To Save An Industry (Eau Claire, WIS) July 22, 2020 - The National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) applauds the introduction of the bi-partisan Save Our Stages Act introduced by Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). The Save Our Stages Act directly impacts independent venues across the country such as Pablo Center at the Confluence, Blue Ox Music Festival, The Grand Theatre, Eaux Claires Festival, Country Jam, Country Fest, Rock Fest, The Lakely, The Mable Tainter, The Plus, Big Top Chautauqua, and The Metro located in Western Wisconsin. “Our members told us months ago that if the shutdown lasted six months or longer and there wasn’t federal relief to hold them over, 90% of them would fold permanently,” said Dayna Frank, president of NIVA and CEO First Avenue Productions. “With no revenue and immense overhead, four months in, it’s already happening. The warning light is flashing red and our only hope is for legislation like Save Our Stages Act or RESTART Act to be passed before Congress goes on August recess. Otherwise, most businesses in this industry will collapse.” “On behalf of our more than 2,000 member venues, promoters and festivals, as well as their employees, artists and local communities who are facing an existential crisis as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re incredibly grateful to Senators Cornyn and Klobuchar,” said Adam Hartke, co-chair of NIVA’s Advocacy Committee and president of Hartke Presents. “While existing government assistance programs have helped other industries, they weren’t tailored to meet the needs of small businesses like ours that have zero revenue, enormous overhead and no visibility into when we can fully re-open. The Save Our Stages Act will provide the assistance we need to get through the shutdown until we can reopen safely and once again become the economic generators for our communities that we’ve always been.” A Chicago study last year showed that for every $1 spent on a ticket at a local venue, $12 of economic activity was generated for area businesses such as restaurants, retailers, and hotels. | ![]()
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Pablo Center Passes On Their Portion of Together Chippewa Valley Donations to Eight Local Arts Nonprofits
Prioritizes Aiding Partner Organizations During the COVID-19 Pandemic (July 22, 2020 - EAU CLAIRE, WIS) Pablo Center is proud to announce that it has passed on its portion of donations from Together Chippewa Valley to its partner local, arts nonprofits. This includes Chippewa Valley Book Festival, Chippewa Valley Jazz Orchestra (CVJO), Chippewa Valley Symphony Orchestra (CVSO), Chippewa Valley Theatre Guild (CVTG), Chippewa Valley Writer’s Guild, Eau Claire Chamber Orchestra (ECCO), Eau Claire Children’s Theatre (ECCT), and Eau Claire Jazz Inc. Pablo Center was a charter member of Together Chippewa Valley, a coalition formed to coordinate a response effort to address ongoing community needs during the COVID-19 crisis. The goal of the collation was to raise funds through a first-of-its-kind community-wide fundraising initiative, collectively support local nonprofits’ missions, and to survive and thrive during this crisis. The Chippewa Valley’s support exceeded expectations and aspirations with a total of $180,567 in donations received from individuals and organizations. Pablo Center and all other participating local nonprofits received a total donation of $9,484 which Pablo Center is now passing on to its partner arts nonprofit organizations. This equates to a donation of $1,185.50 to each organization. The pandemic has hit the entertainment industry particularly hard with independent venues and arts organizations struggling to survive. | ![]()
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At CVTC, Open Air Classes Perfect for Social Distancing
Agronomy, Gas Utility students gain hands-on experience outside
Eau Claire, WI – At Chippewa Valley Technical College, keeping students safe during the COVID-19 pandemic is a top priority. The College has found innovative ways to keep delivering high quality education in these times. Sometimes safe social distancing is easy – like when the classroom spans 145 acres. Earlier this summer, nine Agronomy Management students gathered in a field on the east side of Menomonie, where instructors had previously planted corn, soybeans and oats to do what they call “crop scouting.” “We’re looking at growth stages and checking to see the health of the crops,” said Jake Ingli, a 2014 graduate of Plum City High School now living in Ellsworth. “We’ll do yield evaluations later in the year and try to identify insects that might become a problem.” | ![]()
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• Congress back in session on Monday with negotiations starting in earnest
• Johnson, Kind both earn US Chamber Awards
Several critical recovery issues are on the table in Washington with Congress gong back into session on Monday, July 20. Businesses are increasingly concerned about COVID-19 related liability, and programs like enhanced unemployment benefits about to expire, Congress goes back into session under pressure to negotiate the next federal relief package.
At the Eau Claire Chamber's Friday, July 17, Virtual Eggs & Issues program, US Senator Ron Johnson, Congressman Ron Kind, and US Chamber Vice President of Congressional Affairs Ron Eidschaug joined us to discuss what might be coming, and what's most important to the business community.
Pictured: Scott Rogers, Jennifer McHugh, Senator Johnson, Ron Eidshaug, Ethan Hellier (presenting 2018 Award)
Above right: Rep. Ron Kind recognized for US Chamber's "Jefferson-Hamilton Award for Bipartisanship"
Pictured: Scott Rogers, Jennifer McHugh, Rep. Kind, Ron Eidshaug
Senator Johnson expressed concerns about the overall cost of federal relief, its impact on the federal deficit, and the fact that as much as 40% of previously-approved relief has yet to be spent. He said he recognized the need to act quickly, but thought initiatives like the Paycheck Protection Program should have been more carefully structured to ensure that recipients truly needed the relief to stay in business. He did reiterate the need to take collective action to slow the spread of the disease and do what's necessary to keep the economy moving forward. The day before Eggs & Issues, he and former Governor Scott Walker penned an op-ed in the Cap Times encouraging bipartisanship and the wearing of masks.
Johnson said his top priority for the next phase of federal relief is to enact liability protections for businesses, schools, hospitals and others from nuisance lawsuits. He argued that those who responsibly follow health guidelines should be protected.
Congressman Ron Kind
Responding to the question of liability protection, Rep. Kind agreed that responsible businesses and organizations who do the right thing should have protection, and said that it is important to have objective standards for them to follow. Regarding the $600 supplemental unemployment benefits scheduled to expire at the end of July, he said ending them now would be too soon, but continuing through the end of the year would be too long. He suggested that he would favor some phasing out of the benefits based upon state unemployment rates and possibly back to work bonuses.
Kind also said he hopes some form of relief can be included for venues and festivals, who have the unique challenge of being among the first to close and last to open. He recognized the significant value they bring to a community like Eau Claire, and said that he has heard from venues across the country.
US Chamber recommendations
Ron Eidshaug, Vice President of Congressional Affairs for the US Chamber of Commerce, also joined us for the full program and highlighted the comprehensive recommendations the US Chamber made in a letter on July 16 to Congress and the Administration. He pointed out that additional assistance is critical, but must be "timely, temporary and targeted." He said the US Chamber is recommending action in five areas, based upon detail input from industries and chambers across the country "on how to get their sectors and communities through the crisis."
1. Liability Protection Against Unwarranted Lawsuits;
2. Support for Small and Midsize Employers;
3. Support for Childcare and K-12 Schools;
4. Unemployment and Job Training, and
5. State and Local Assistance
Click here to read the Chamber letter with recommendations (18 pages)
Eidshaug also joined our Eggs & Issues hosts, Jennifer McHugh (Vice President of Community Engagement for Royal Credit Union and Chair of the Chamber's Governmental Affairs Committee) and Scott Rogers (the Chamber's Governmental Affairs Director), in presenting voting record awards to both Johnson and Kind for their support of business.
Senator Johnson - Spirit of Enterprise Award
Recognized for his voting record supporting policies that strengthen our economy and provide good jobs for American workers. (Overall Annual Score 77%, Legislative 89%, Leadership 21%, Bipartisanship 40%)
"Senator Johnson is someone we have worked with for a long time in terms of getting things done," said Eidshaug, "We've had a long history of working with some of the cyber issues and particularly the regulatory reform issues that are really important."
Congressman Kind - Jefferson-Hamilton Bipartisanship Award
Recognizes those members of Congress who in their actions have demonstrated a willingness to work across the aisle in support of common objectives. (Overall Annual Score 63%, Legislative 56%, Leadership 94%, Bipartisanship 96%)
Eidshaug particularly credited Rep. Kind with a key role in the passage of the US Mexico Canada Trade Agreement (USMCA), a top 2019 legislative accomplishment for the business community.
“USMCA would not have gotten done without the work of Ron Kind. Full stop,” said Eidshaug. “He was leading that effort on trade, on this agreement, on other agreements for years.”
Click here for more information about the US Chamber's awards including full scorecards for the Wisconsin delegation and all members of Congress.
Additional resources:
Wisconsin politicians discuss keeping the economy afloat as pandemic continues (WEAU 13 News)
Kind & Johnson discuss coronavirus relief at Eau Claire event (WQOW News 18)
Johnson, Kind talk COVID-19 aid (Eau Claire Leader-Telegram$)
Sen. Ron Johnson and Scott Walker: COVID-19 is not a partisan issue. Let's do what we can to stop the spread (Cap Times)
Mnuchin gives hints of PPP changes in next COVID-19 relief bill (Roll Call)
Battle over Covid aid consumes Congress' final sprint to recess (Politico)
Note on article links: A subscription is required for those marked with "$"
Posted by Scott Rogers, Governmental Affairs and Workforce Director
rogers@eauclairechamber.org
ECASD Board to Consider Instructional Model for 2020-21 School Year
Proposed model aligns with Respond Together Eau Claire, a step-by-step plan that provides recommendations based on the risks posed by COVID-19 in the community Eau Claire, WI — On Monday, July 20, the Eau Claire Area School District Board of Education will consider a proposed instructional model aligned with Respond Together Eau Claire, a plan developed by Eau Claire City/County Health Department. The model will outline how the District will approach learning in the upcoming school year, depending on a variety of factors. The Respond Together Eau Claire plan includes seven steps, designated as Safer at Home and Steps A through F. Based on the risks posed by COVID-19 in the community, the orders of the plan are updated every two weeks. These orders directly impact the district’s teaching and learning delivery model. | ![]()
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Martin Dental First Office in Wisconsin with Extra-Oral Aerosol Containment Devices in Treatment Rooms
Eau Claire, WI - A local dental spa is the first dental office in Wisconsin to install a HEPA filtration machine that removes viruses and germs with 99.995% efficiency in each treatment room. “While many things have changed, the safety of our patients and staff remain our number one priority. During treatment there are droplets and aerosols produced. By placing an EOS Suction System in each room, we are able to minimize the number of droplets and aerosols in the air and the spread of germs,” said Dr. Tony Martin, co- owner of Martin Dental. | ![]()
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Per Mar Security Services Ranked #22 in SDM’s 2020 Top Systems Integrators Report
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Per Mar Security Services, a leading provider of total security solutions for residential and commercial clients based in Davenport, IA, is ranked 22nd in SDM’s 2020 Top Systems Integrators Report. The top 5 market segments contributing to Per Mar’s 2019 security system integration revenue were retail, industrial, health, corporate, and education. | ![]()
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Wisconsin Public Radio
On July 31 and August 6
Eau Claire, Wis. - As part of its 2020 election coverage, Wisconsin Public Radio (WPR) is hosting two, live broadcast debates featuring primary candidates for Wisconsin’s 3rd District seat in the House of Representatives.
The first debate will air on Friday, July 31 at 10 a.m. and feature the Republican primary candidates Jessi Ebben of Eau Claire and Derrick Van Orden of Hager City. The second debate will air on Thursday, August 6 at 10 a.m. and feature the Democratic primary candidates Ron Kind, the incumbent, and Mark Neumann; both are from La Crosse. Ezra Wall, host of WPR’s “Newsmakers,” will moderate the discussions. The primary election is on August 11.
WPR’s The Ideas Network stations will broadcast the one-hour debates live on the following stations: 90.3 La Crosse, 88.3 Menomonie-Eau Claire, 99.1 Stevens Point, 89.1 Adams-Wisconsin Rapids, 88.7 River Falls, 91.3 Highland, AM 930 Auburndale, 100.9 Marshfield, 91.9 and 101.3 Wausau, 90.3 Park Falls, and 89.9 Rhinelander.
The debates will also be streamed on wpr.org through a partnership with the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce and WIN Technology of Eau Claire.
Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District includes all or parts of 18 counties in western and central Wisconsin, including the cities of Eau Claire, La Crosse, Stevens Point, Wisconsin Rapids, Menomonie, River Falls, Chippewa Falls, Plover, Platteville, Sparta, Tomah and New Richmond.
The surge in unemployment because of the pandemic’s effect on the economy has mobilized non-profit organizations to help those in need. That response will be the focus of “The West Side” at 10 a.m. on Friday, July 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 Nancy Renkes, the executive director of Feed My People Food Bank, which supplies food to more than 200 hunger relief programs in its 14-county service area in western Wisconsin; and Jessica Neuman, community impact director for United Way St. Croix Valley, which serves five western Wisconsin counties in the areas of financial stability, education and health.
Brian Kaczmarski, Polk County public health director and chair of the Northwest Wisconsin Healthcare Emergency Response Coalition, will join the show at the beginning to provide an update and analysis of the current state of the coronavirus in western Wisconsin.
“The West Side” is broadcast each Friday at 10 a.m. 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 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.
Royal Credit Union Receives Diamond Award for outstanding marketing, business development achievements

The award was presented by the CUNA Marketing & Business Development Council, a national network comprised of over 1,200 credit union marketing and business development professionals. Awards are given in each of 35 categories ranging from advertising to community events and beyond.
Royal won the Website category for its entry, entitled Redesign for rcu.org. The objective of Royal Credit Union’s rcu.org redesign was to increase lead generation, improve search engine optimization, improve in-site search, and improve accessibility. These key elements were identified to help drive growth and retention for the credit union.
University of Wisconsin Eau Claire
This week, middle and high school students from three states are learning how to code thanks to a popular UW-Eau Claire summer camp that has moved to a virtual format because of COVID-19. Full story.
Award-winning instructor shares passion for mathematics
The national Council on Undergraduate Research has announced Dr. Carolyn Otto, associate professor of mathematics at UW-Eau Claire, as the winner of its math and computer science division’s 2020 Mid-Career Mentoring Award. Full story.
Dear Chamber Investor,
It is our job at the Eau Claire Area Chamber to do all that we can to help businesses prosper and keep the economic environment healthy in our community. As we all work to restore business activity in light of the COVID-19 health and economic crisis, the recent increase in cases threatens to short-circuit the recovery and send us backwards.
That’s why the Chamber is asking all businesses – as well as all community members – to follow the guidelines from the CDC, WEDC and local health officials regarding social distancing and the use of masks to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus. Doing so now can keep us all safer and can prevent the need for more stringent limitations on business activities in the future.
Following the implementation of the most recent order, local health care officials predicted coronavirus cases could increase as people returned to public activities. Unfortunately, we have seen a rise in the number of coronavirus cases in the past week. City and County leaders continue to monitor these increases and related hospitalization trends carefully.
We know that masks and social distancing work to slow the spread of the virus. The track record of other cities demonstrates that coronavirus spread can be mitigated – and businesses can remain open – where masks and social distancing have been widely accepted. We have every reason to expect a similar effort here would be successful, too.
To help make that happen, we’ll be undertaking a comprehensive campaign, “We ask that you wear a mask,” to support this recommendation and educate the public on its importance to their health and to our economy. Watch for full details in the coming days.
Watch our 30-second video:
YouTube
Sincerely,
Chair of the Board President/CEO
P.S. If you haven’t done so already, you can publicly show you are “Committed to Safety” by taking the pledge available through the Chippewa Valley Economic Recovery Task Force. You’ll receive a decal you can display to assure your employees and the public that you are following safety guidelines. https://bit.ly/3dTnReL
United Way of the Greater Chippewa Valley COVID Recovery Grant
The United Way of the Greater Chippewa Valley (UWGCV) Endowment has released $500,000 to inspire and fund impactful COVID recovery efforts in the Chippewa Valley. Funds will be released in two waves; the Second Wave request for proposals will be available in late summer for funding beginning in Fall. Rarely has humanity faced a threatening situation for which one important solution is our staying separated from one another. The consequences of our doing so are especially threatening to our counties’ young children and their families. “Early childhood care and education is more than preparation for primary school. It aims at the holistic development of a child’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs in order to build a solid and broad foundation for lifelong learning and wellbeing. Early childhood care and education has the possibility to nurture caring, capable and responsible future citizens.” UNESCO | ![]()
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Royal Credit Union Ranked #1 in Wisconsin and one of America's best credit unions

“We are honored to be named by Forbes as one of the best credit unions in America and #1 in Wisconsin,” said Brandon Riechers, Royal Credit Union president and CEO. “The key evaluation factors used by Forbes including creating trustworthy relationships and offering sound financial advice are cornerstones of our commitment to our Members. In addition, we recently launched an updated, award-winning website and consistently offer Members access to digital products to provide them easy access to financial services. Credit unions are known in the marketplace for offering highly competitive rates and exceptional service. We are proud to rank among the best credit unions in the nation and will continue to use our values to guide our decisions as we work to make a positive impact in the communities we serve in Minnesota and Wisconsin.”
DECI Launches Campaign to Support Downtown Business
Downtown Eau Claire, Inc. is excited to announce a new digital content and marketing campaign to support the safe re-opening of downtown businesses: #Root4EC! The campaign invites the community and visitors back to their favorite, Downtown Eau Claire establishments and recreation activities. The campaign features a powerful video entitled Portrait of Eau Claire, produced by Downtown Eau Claire's own Hookd Promotions. The piece is an intimate portrait of the downtown business owners who need our support. The video was released on Downtown Eau Claire, Inc.’s Facebook page on Tuesday evening and had 9,000 views within 48 hours. Eau Claire area residents will soon start seeing the video and still photography promotions on platforms such as Facebook, Google, and YouTube! The campaign encourages area residents and visitors to #Root4EC on social media to support the people and places that make up the unique fabric that is Downtown Eau Claire. Another interactive feature of the campaign is a #Root4EC Facebook profile frame that will be available for personal Facebook profile photos. Local cheerleaders of all ages and interests are encouraged to participate! Downtown businesses are taking extra steps, like sanitizing regularly, wearing masks, and providing outdoor seating, to make visits safe. They look forward to welcoming the community to revisit the sites and sounds that make up our downtown and define our connection to it. For more information, please visit https://www.downtowneauclaire.org/root-4-eau-claire/ or contact us at downtown@eauclairewi.gov. To watch the video Portrait of Eau Claire, please visit bit.ly/rootforec | ![]()
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Pablo Center limits Season 3 sales to live performances scheduled after january 1, 2021
[Eau Claire, WI, July 8, 2020] Following the direction of public health officials, data from peer organizations, Members, and Patrons, the Member presale and public sale of Season 3’s live performances will be limited to events scheduled after January 1, 2021. For Season 3 events scheduled in the months of October, November, and December, performances will be evaluated a month before the scheduled performance date. If the health data and the Eau Claire Health Department indicate it is safe to proceed, tickets will go on sale with a one-week Member-exclusive on-sale followed by a three-week general public on-sale for each event. | ![]()
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University of Wisconsin Eau Claire
Like so many activities disrupted by COVID-19, an exhibition to honor the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act has transitioned to a digital format. “ADA30: Accessibility in the Chippewa Valley” will remain online through December 2020. Full story.
Chippewa Valley Innovation Center
Chippewa Valley Innovation Center https://www.chippewavalleyinnovationcenter.com/ The Chippewa Valley Innovation Center (CVIC) announced today their newest graduating clients, Wolfe Ridge Manufacturing and Precision Die Systems, two emerging manufacturing companies who have completed the CVIC Business Growth Program, and will soon begin operations in their new facilities here in the Chippewa Valley. "The support the Chippewa Valley Innovation Center has provided in work space and advisory services has been critical for these young companies as they establish a foothold in early growth, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic," said Ray French, president of the CVIC board of directors. "We are thrilled to see these newest graduates of our program move into their new facilities and look forward to seeing their continued success. They are shining examples of how CVIC helps to strengthen our community through the generation of job growth, tax revenues and infrastructure." | ![]()
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Change for kids fundraiser is back for year two with a $25,000 Goal
![]() When: August 11th, 2020, 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Where: Northwestern Bank-River Prairie 1430 Rivers Edge Trail Altoona, WI 54720 Interviews: Sandi Polzin, Hope Gospel Mission; Sarah Stokes, Event Sponsor; Jerry Jacobson, President, Northwestern Bank Photos/Video: Kids donating change at Northwestern Bank Altoona, WI – Change jars changed lives last summer at the Change for Kids fundraiser with more than $20,000 raised to help open the Hope Gospel Mission Renewal Center for Women and Children. This year, Hope Gospel Mission has a goal of raising $25,000 to help provide shelter, training and counseling for one family for a year. “We can’t thank the Chippewa Valley enough for last year’s success,” said Sandi Polzin of Hope Gospel Mission. “These are hard times for everyone, but every penny counts towards helping our families.” | ![]()
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WNB Financial
![]() WNB Financial is pleased to announce Terry Crolius, Vice President and Business Banking Officer, as the recipient of its 2020 second quarter Community PRIDE Award. Community PRIDE Awards recognize WNB employees for exceptional volunteer service to programs, organizations, and initiatives that contribute to the strength and vitality of the communities served. This includes volunteering efforts made during and outside of work hours. | ![]()
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