Chamber News for May 2011 (Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce)

20th Chamber Golf Classic - June 2nd at The Oaks

for the 20th Annual Golf Classic at the Oaks Golf Course on June 2nd. Put your own foursome together, or sign up individually and we will place you on a team. If you prefer not to golf, join us for the Watering Hole event which includes dinner, a raffle, and networking opportunities!

The Chamber is currently accepting raffle donations; if your business would like to donate a prize, please contact the Chamber. Recognition for raffle donations will be made at the event and in the Chamber newsletter. For more information, call the Chamber at 837-4547.

Leadership Participants Sought

The Leadership Sun Prairie Committee is taking applications for the fifteenth class. The nine month program meets September through May; one full weekday per month. Sessions, held in various locations, are chosen to expose participants to different aspects of the Sun Prairie community. Topics include: education, health, government, business, leadership, volunteerism, and communications.

Everyone in the community benefits from the involvement of well informed leaders through Leadership Sun Prairie! This is the perfect way to get to know your community and determine our role in it. Applications are due June 6th. To request an application or for more information, please contact the Chamber office at 837-4547 or spchamber@frontier.com.

Taste of the Arts Fair - Saturday, June 11th, 9 am—4 pm

Featuring our expanded Wine & Cheese tasting! Again, we will feature specialty food vendors, entertainment, the Art Cart and over 120 fine crafts/arts booths on display with items for sale. The event is held in conjunction with the Georgia O'Keeffe Celebration.

Details include:
Place: Sheehan Park-across from the Public Library.
Time: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Visit our website for more information and vendor specifics.

Congratulations Graduates of Sun Prairie Leadership Class XIV

The graduation ceremony for the Leadership Class XIV will be held on May 18th at Buck & Honey’s. The program was created by the City of Sun Prairie, Sun Prairie Area School District and the Chamber of Commerce as a leadership development program for the community. We would like to congratulate this year’s graduates and acknowledge their sponsors:

Elry Armaza: UW Credit Union
Andrew Hirvela: Sun Prairie Utilities
Denise Kerr: Stark Company Realtors
Patrick Malinowski: Summit Credit Union
Eric Ristau: Eustice, Laffey, Sebranek & Auby
Jon Rouse: Sun Prairie Area School District (SPHS)
Jamie Stueber: Bank of Sun Prairie
Brian Teasdale: Sun Prairie Police Dept.
Julie Wiedmeyer: Sunshine Supper

Corn Fest Sponsorships Sought

Put your business or organization in front of thousands of people! Event sponsorships enable your marketing dollars to stretch and reach a captive audience. Corn Fest attracts nearly
100,000 people over a four day period. Sponsors receive pre- and post-event recognition as well as on-site. Incentives are included and various commitment levels are available. Contact the
Chamber office for details or to meet with staff regarding opportunities for high-profile recognition.

May Member Luncheon - “UW Office of Corporate Relations - The front door to the university for business and industry"

Presenter: Charles Hoslet, Managing Director at the Office of Corporate Relations (OCR) at the University of WI-Madison, will discuss how area companies, organizations and entrepreneurs can access the many valuable resources available to them on campus.

Services include:
* Recruitment of UW graduates and student interns
* Faculty and staff expertise
* Professional development and executive education programs
* Technology licensing
* Global competency resources
* Entrepreneurship resources

Details are as follows: Place: Cannery Grill, 315 E Linnerud Drive

Date: Tuesday, May 24, 2011 RSVP: Friday, May 20th

Time: noon-1:00 pm Menu: soup and salad buffet & beverages

Cost: $8.50 per person

Payment due in advance; Cancellations must be made 24 hours in advance for refund. Please make checks payable to Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce; 109 E Main St, Sun Prairie, WI 53590.

Frontier Communications Highlights Wisconsin Landmarks With New Contest (Sun Prairie Star)

Frontier Communications Highlights Wisconsin Landmarks With New Contest

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=50&ArticleID=7354

Blogger's Note: Let's get some great Sun Prairie shots in this!

New Office a Dream Come True for Baldwin Eye Care (Sun Prairie Star)

New Office a Dream Come True for Baldwin Eye Care

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestaronline.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&subsectionID=52&articleID=7339

Click here for additional information on Baldwin Eye Care.

Leading the Way: Two SSM Health Care Programs Take the Initiative in Grooming Future Leaders (IBMadison.com)

Leading the Way: Two SSM Health Care Programs Take the Initiative in Grooming Future Leaders

Link to full article: http://www.ibmadison.com/healthcare?id=913

Click here for more information on SSM Health Care.

Click here for more information on St. Mary's Hospital.

Click here for more information on St. Mary's Sun Prairie Emergency Center.

Blogger's Note: A great program from a great organization. Have I mentioned before that SSM Health Care and St. Mary's Hospital plan to eventually build a full hospital here Sun Prairie?

Royle Printing to Implement Technique MIS and Data Collection (WhatTheyThink.com)

Royle Printing to Implement Technique MIS and Data Collection

Link to full article: http://whattheythink.com/news/50469-royle-printing-implement-technique-mis-data-collection/

Click here for more information on the Technique MIS and Data Collection system.

Click here for more information on Royle Printing.

Blogger's Note: Royle continues to make some great strategic investments that will keep Royle positioned to be extremely competitive both now and into the future.

DOR Official: Recovery Already Here (Sun Prairie Star)

Wisconsin Department of Revenue Official: Recovery Already Here

Link to full article: http://www.sunprairiestaronline.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=52&ArticleID=7304

Blogger's Note: I don't know if I'm fully convinced of this or not, but at the very least some good signs that things are turning around. Thanks to the Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce for bringing in Mr. John Koskinen, Chief Economist and Division Administrator for the Division of Research and Policy Analysis for the Wisocnsin Department of Revenue for this presentation.

Leadership Participants Sought (Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce)

The Leadership Sun Prairie Committee is now taking applications for the fifteenth year class. This nine month program meets from September through April, one full weekday per month.

Sessions are held in various locations and are chosen to give participants the opportunity to learn about key facets of the Sun Prairie community. Topics include: education, health, government, business, leadership, volunteerism, and communications.

Everyone in the community benefits from the involvement of more informed leaders through Leadership Sun Prairie! This is the perfect way to get to know Sun Prairie and the role you can play in community life.

Applications are due by June 3, 2011. To request an application or for more information, please contact the Chamber office at 837-4547 or spchamber@frontier.com.

Sun Prairie Dealership Believed to be First in the Area to Offer Chevy Volt Test Rides (Madison.com)

Sun Prairie Dealership Believed to be First in the Area to Offer Chevy Volt Test Rides (Photo: Associated Press archives)

Link to full article: http://host.madison.com/wsj/business/article_5ebd1c24-5cb0-11e0-9ac7-001cc4c002e0.html

Click here for more information on Stark in Sun Prairie.

Blogger's Note: People interested in test driving the Volt are asked to call ahead and reserve a time by calling Ashley Corning at 608-834-5180.

Sun Prairie Unemployment Drops, While Other Metro Areas Rise (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

Metro-area jobless rate rises

Link to full article: http://www.jsonline.com/business/118958589.html

Blogger's Note: We almost missed this one. Its from March 30th, but still makes an interesting point. Just wanted to focus on this sentence in the article:

"Of the 31 municipalities with populations of at least 25,000, Sun Prairie and Wausau saw unemployment rates decrease in February."

Yet another sign we're headed in the right direction here in Sun Prairie.

Sun Prairie Realtor Relies on Streaming Video to Market Properties (Laura Lahti, Century 21 Affiliated)

Laura Lahti, a Century 21 Realtor, has been successfully using a new marketing tool called MVT (My Video Talk). Laura uses the MVT marketing tools to conduct video emails, access to conduct webinars for training and educating her buyers and sellers, taking tour of different listings and sending it to an out of town clients, being able to be online with clients face to face and having a uploaded document on the screen and being able to explain it to the client. MVT marketing tool not only is great for real estate, but it can be used for all sorts of jobs and it’s great to for personalization, cost saving and effectiveness.

Click here to check out an example of Laura's use of MVT.

Click here for more information on My Video Talk.

For more information, contact Laura at llahti@c21affiliated.com or 608-825-7552, or click here to view her Century 21 page on the web.

Mama Newman's Fulfills Son's Lifelong Dream (Sun Prairie Star)

Mama Newman's Fulfills Son's Lifelong Dream (Photo by Tim Neuenschwander)

Link to full article:

http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=52&ArticleID=7303

Blogger's Note: Again...another new restaurant opens in Sun Prairie. It's a safe assumption that this community has been underserved by places to eat, but its probably true for other retail as well.

Bank of Sun Prairie Helps Sunshine Place and Sun Prairie Food Pantry (Sun Prairie Star)

Event Celebrates Sunshine Place, Rewards Schools

Link to full article:

http://www.sunprairiestaronline.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=52&ArticleID=7301

Additional Information:

Click here for more information on the Bank of Sun Prairie.

Click here for more information on the Sunshine Place.

Click here for more information on the Sun Prairie Food Pantry.

Blogger's note: Thanks both to the Bank of Sun Prairie and to the Sunshine Place & Sun Prairie Food Pantry for all that they do in support of our community.

Sun Prairie Man Selected To View Shuttle Launch (NBC 15)

Sun Prairie Man Selected To View Shuttle Launch

Link to Article: http://www.nbc15.com/home/headlines/Sun_Prairie_Man_Selected_To_View_Shuttle_Launch_120515134.html

Blogger's Note: Congratulations to Tom Buchheim! He is one of Sun Prairie's most active residents on social media, and is part of American Family's social media team. Follow him on Twitter at @tombuchheim. (Photo above is from Tom's Twitter profile.)

Keith Ouimette Wins RPA Innovation Award (Sun Prairie Star)

Keith Ouimette Wins RPA Innovation Award

Link to article:

http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=50&ArticleID=7254&TM=26687.26

Other information:

Click here for more information on the Radiant Panel Association.

Click here for more information on Cardinal Heating and Air Conditioning.

Being Associate AD for Business at UW Requires Versatility (Madison.com)

Being Associate AD for Business at UW Requires Versatility (An interview between Sun Prairie native Randy Marnocha and Wisconsin State Journal's Andy Baggot.)

http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/article_e7ace710-685b-11e0-a10d-001cc4c03286.html

Blogger's Note: Thanks to Andy Baggot for specifically stating that Randy Marnocha, the Associate Athletic Director for Business Operations at UW-Madison, is really a Sun Prairie guy--even though this is a "Know Your Madisonian" article.

Woodman's Food Market Gets Conditional Approval from Sun Prairie City Council (City of Sun Prairie Office of Economic Development)

Woodman's Food Market received unanimous, conditional approval from the Sun Prairie City Council at the April 19th City Council meeting to construct a 225,000 s.f. grocery store in the City's Westside Neighborhood. A fueling station and seven outlots will also be created as part of this project. The only issue to be resolved was the final alignment of Prairie Lakes Drive on the east of the property, which is currently shifted to accommodate an electrical transmission pole in the center of the street on an island. Council approved the project, but directed both Woodman's and staff to further evaluate options to relocate the proposed road to the south and to update the Council on their decision. Woodman's representative Bret Backus reiterated their intention to break ground in June 2011 and to be open in summer or fall of 2012.

UPDATE: Click here to read the full article in the Sun Prairie Star.

Jamie Lindau of Trachte Building Systems Featured in "Inside Self Storage"

New Trends in Building Boat/RV Storage: Enclosed Units, Climate Control, Solar Carports and More (insideselfstorage.com)

http://www.insideselfstorage.com/articles/2011/04/new-trends-in-building-boatrv-storage-enclosed-units-climate-control-solar-carports-and-more.aspx

Click here for more information on Trachte Building Systems.

Blogger's Note: How ironic is it that Sun Prairie has been wrestling with outdoor parking of RV's, boats and trailers when one of the top manufacturers of indoor storage facilities in the U.S. is located right here in Sun Prairie? Go figure.

Roundy's Foundation Helps Raise Funds for Sun Prairie Food Pantry (Sun Prairie Star)

Roundy's Foundation Helps Raise Funds for Sun Prairie Food Pantry

http://www.sunprairiestar.com/m/Articles.aspx?ArticleID=7257

WWIG, Klinke Cleaners: Sponsor ‘Suited for Success’ Professional Clothing Drive April 18-29 (WisBusiness.com Press Release)

Wisconsin Women in Government, Klinke Cleaners: Sponsor ‘Suited for Success’ Professional Clothing Drive April 18-29

http://wisbusiness.com/index.iml?Article=233217

Click here for more information on Wisconsin Women in Government.

Click here for more information on Klinke Cleaners.

Sun Prairie Utilities Wins RP3 Recognition (Sun Prairie Star)

Sun Prairie Utilities Wins RP3 Recognition

http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=50&ArticleID=7215&TM=36669.79

Blogger's Note: Safe reliable electricity that is more affordable than investor owned utilities in the area. Sounds like a good reason to move a company to Sun Prairie to me! Congratulations to Rick Wicklund and his whole crew over at Sun Prairie Utilities. Keep up the good work.

Addition to Gus' Diner on April 26th Plan Commission Agenda (Sun Prairie Star)

Addition to Gus' Diner on April 26th Plan Commission Agenda

http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=52&ArticleID=7263

Click here for more information on Gus' Diner.

St. Mary's Sun Prairie Emergency Center Cares for 20,000th Paitient (St. Mary's Hospital Press Release)

Sun Prairie, WI – April 13, 2011 – It took just 11 months for St. Mary’s Sun Prairie Emergency Center to care for 10,000 patients and this afternoon – another 10 months later – it has reached the 20,000 mark. St. Mary’s Sun Prairie Emergency Center opened on July 1, 2009, and has reached both milestones well ahead of initial projections.

“The community told us several years ago there was an unmet need for emergency services in Sun Prairie, and by the fact we keep hitting our milestones well ahead of time I’d say that need has been proven,” says Rebecca Jacobs, Manager of the St. Mary’s Sun Prairie Emergency Center. “We couldn’t be happier to be here caring for this wonderful community.”

Sun Prairie’s estimated 2010 population is roughly 28,000 people. If each patient lived in the community, this means more than 2 out of 3 residents would have received care from the Center’s dedicated team of healthcare professionals.

St. Mary’s Sun Prairie Emergency Center provides 24/7 care and is staffed by Certified Emergency Nurses and physicians who are all board certified in emergency medicine. It is Wisconsin’s only satellite emergency center and is conveniently located near the intersection of Highway 151 and Reiner Road. The 13,500 square foot building was built on a 17 acre parcel, with future growth and expanded services in mind. It features 10 treatment rooms - including a fire truck-themed room for pediatric patients, a helipad for transport to Madison hospitals and an InstyMeds machine (a 24 hour prescription vending machine).

You can learn more about the St. Mary’s Sun Prairie Emergency Center at: www.stmarysmadison.com/ER.

Source: http://www.stmarysmadison.com/News/Pages/StMarysSunPrairieEmergencyCenterCaresfor20000thPatient.aspx

Dane County Launches New Economic Development Website, a One-Stop Shop for Job Creators and Communities (Dane Co. Board of Supervisors Press Release)

The Dane County Economic Development Committee is pleased to unveil http://www.dane-econdev.org/, a long awaited resource for entrepreneurs, businesses, communities and organizations interested in business and economic development in Dane County!

"For the first time, there will be an easy and accessible means to connect with the resources, people and information that businesses and communities need to help start or expand a business, strengthen community capacity for economic development, and participate in the county’s rapidly growing and dynamic economy,” said Dane County Board Supervisor Patrick Miles, Chair, Dane County Economic Development Committee.

On the website, you will find information on financing, venture capital and loan programs as well as over 150 organizations, a listing of business development and networking resources and how to contact our economic development staff and partners. A comprehensive list of all Dane County cities, towns and villages, including websites and information for local economic development staff, is also included. And for communities that would like assistance in identifying and pursuing economic development opportunities, you will find many helpful resources.

Thinking about starting or expanding a business, re-locating your business, or would you like to find out more about workforce development training in our region, visit http://www.dane-econdev.org/. Dane County is Wisconsin’s fastest growing region and part of the global market place – with a rich agricultural and cultural heritage.

“We are committed to being a strong regional partner and resource, and look forward to our continued work supporting our communities, businesses, individuals and organizations to ensure we stay competitive, and build a dynamic and sustainable economy,” Miles said.

Stay tuned to the website, and check back in as we continue to develop and build this important new tool. For more information, please contact Dane County Economic Development Committee Chair, Patrick Miles, at miles@countyofdane.com, or Olivia Parry, Sr. Economic Development Specialist at parry@co.dane.wi.us, and be sure to visit us at http://www.dane.econ-dev.org/.

Woodman's Revised PIP, Preliminary Plat and Final Plat Recommended for Approval (City of Sun Prairie Office of Economic Develoment)

The revised PIP, preliminary Plat and final plat for a 225,000 s.f. Woodman's Food Market were unanimously recommended for approval at the April 12th Sun Prairie Planning Commission. The project will include 8 lots of about 1 acre each immediately north of the store site, 7 of which will be available for development. The project goes to the Sun Prairie City Council for approval on Tuesday April 19th. Woodman's Real Estate Manager Bret Backus confirmed again that it is their intention to break ground this coming June.

Watch the Sun Prairie Star for additional details later this week.

Workforce Development Board Seeks Local Company Partners for Training and Jobs Programs (Workforce Development Board of South Central WI)

The Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin is seeking Companies that would like to partner with them on their "Transitional Jobs" and "On the Job Training" initiatives.

Transitional Jobs Program

For Transitional jobs there is an ongoing pool of 20 people who are screened and ready to work. The Board serves as the employer. We can fund each person at $7.25 per hour plus workers compensation and unemployment for up to 1,040 hours . They currently have people with backgrounds in Manufacturing Assembly - Picker and Packers - Warehouse , Restaurant including Dishwasher , Baking , Janitorial, Groundskeeper, Housekeeping, General office, Retail including sales.

Questions regarding the Transitional Jobs program for Dane County companies should be addressed to Deb Bray at 608-249-9001, ext 237.

On the Job Training

The On-the-Job Training program puts dislocated (laid off) workers back to work earning a wage while receiving training. Businesses participating in the On-the-Job Training (OJT) program can receive a cash reimbursement (not a tax credit) to help offset the costs associated with training a new, permanent employee. The program targets new positions that have the potential after training to earn an average of $14.57 per hour Benefits to partner company:

Receive cash reimbursement for 50-90% of employee wages during training period depending on size of company

Reimbursement may be up to $4,600, dependent upon the job position and qualifications required

Continuous support from OJT representatives throughout the OJT process

No-cost recruitment and screening of qualified candidates -- you decide who to hire.

Questions regarding the OJT program for Dane County companies should be a addressed to Julie Enloe at 608-242-4546.

For more information, contact Pat Schramm via e-mail at pschramm@wdbscw.org or phone at 608-249-9001 ext. 221. You can also visit the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin on the internet at http://www.wdbscw.org/.

Frontier Day is April 15th (Frontier Communications)

Frontier teams throughout Wisconsin will help taxpayers reduce stress and have a little fun before filing their taxes this year. (Note: The IRS extended the tax filing date to April 18 because the Emancipation holiday, observed in the District of Columbia, falls on April 15.)

And since taxes aren't due until the 18th this year, Frontier is seizing the opportunity to proclaim April 15 as Frontier Day, planning a variety of fun-filled free activities, including: Customer Appreciation Events to welcome spring with community cook-outs; performing “random acts of kindness,” such as buying morning coffee at the local coffee shop or taking over the corner car wash to get rid of your car’s winter grime; hosting Chamber after-hours events for some relaxing conversations; and working with local businesses to show how partnering with Frontier on its Great Frontier DONATE program can result in financial contributions.

In Sun Prairie, Frontier teams will be providing Random Acts of Kindness by delivering breakfast to local businesses throughout the morning. Similar events will be held in other Frontier territories throughout the company’s six-state Central Region. Teams in each market will also randomly distribute $5 gift certificates to customers who can apply the credit to their Frontier account.

“Frontier is committed to the communities we serve. Our 100 percent U.S.-based workforce live and work in our markets and support our neighborhoods and towns at local events,” said Frontier General Manager Terry Kucera. “This April 15 is all about instilling Peace of Mind and another perfect opportunity for us to demonstrate our ‘Frontier spirit’ throughout our communities and help everyone to have some fun and de-stress.”

About Frontier
Frontier Communications Corporation (NYSE: FTR) offers voice, High-Speed Internet, satellite video, wireless Internet data access, data security solutions, bundled offerings, specialized bundles for small businesses and home offices, and advanced business communications for medium and large businesses in 27 states and with approximately 14,800 employees. A Fortune 500 company, Frontier is included in the S&P 500 Index and is the largest provider of communications services to rural America. It has a 100 percent U.S.-based workforce. More information is available at www.frontier.com and www.frontier.com/ir.

Questions about Frontier Day can be directed to Terry Kucera, General Manager - Southern Wisconsin at terry.kucera@ftr.com or 608-742-4500.

Blogger's Note: City Hall got a visit from this crew on Friday. Thanks for the donuts!

Sun Prairie Stands Out at ICSC Idea Exchange in Milwaukee (City of Sun Prairie Office of Economic Development)

City Economic Development Director Neil Stechschulte's Thursday presentation on available retail sites was one of the only ones that included a major project breaking ground this summer. The confirmation of Woodman's beginning work on their 225,000 s.f. store in Sun Prairie's Westside neighborhood this summer (pending final City approvals) was easily the largest project that was being discussed publicly.

Several area Realtors and developers were in attendance, including Chad Fedler (Prairie Development Ltd.), CB Richard Ellis (Matt Paske), Lee & Associates (Dick Stern, Steve Doran, Todd Waller, and Chris Etmanczyk), Pat Schwartz (ReMax Preferred), Central Place Real Estate (Rob Zache, Jesse Schluter, and Kyle Robb), Deb Ersland (Best Real Estate Group) and General Capital Group (Michael Weiss). Stechschulte also met representatives from several retailers looking to expand in Wisconsin including CVS Pharmacy, Jersey Mike's Subs, Kwik Trip, and Dunkin' Donuts.

The day concluded with a reception and informational tables with both communities and retailers looking for possible deals. Information on Sun Prairie sites on the Westside, financial assistance programs, redevelopment areas on Main Street, TIF Districts and downtown space was made available for event participants.

Patio Pleasures to Host "Pool School" Event (Patio Pleasures)

Patio Pleasures to Host "Pool School" Event

Wednesday, April 13th in Madison
Thursday, April 14th in Sun Prairie
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

On a hot summer day, a swimming pool is a great way to stay cool and have fun. Join us as we learn how to keep crystal-clear water all summer long. Protect your swimmers, your pool and it’s equipment.

• Wondering what all the buzz is about salt water?
• Want to have an easy solution to pool maintenance?
• Ever wonder what enzymes are?

Let us help create a safe swimming environment for your family. All attendees will receive a free gift. PLUS, one night only, exclusive savings on pool products.

To R.S.V.P., call 608-825-6200 or 608-288-8220.

Call for more information on pool opening services, and special promotions including 1) Save 10% on pool chemicals, accessories and maintenance equipment all season long? Schedule your pool opening and closing and receive the Patio Pleasures Pool Pass. 2) Schedule your pool opening today and receive $25.00 off! Expires April 15th, 2011. 3) Attend Pool School and receive a FREE bottle of filter cleaner.

Click here for more information on Patio Pleasures.

Blogger's Note: It is supposed to be almost 80 degrees here is Sun Prairie this weekend. Check the forecast if you think I'm kidding!

Ronald McDonald Family Room to be Built at St. Mary's (St. Mary's Hospital)

On Wednesday, April 6th, St. Mary's Hospital and Ronald McDonald House Charities announced that St. Mary's Hospital in Madison will soon be the home to Wisconsin's first Family Room in Wisconsin. Construction on the Ronald McDonald Family Room is likely to begin in 2012 and expected to take 5 months to complete. The total cost of the project is $1 million and will be funded with support from the community. To make a gift, call St. Mary’s Foundation at 608-258-5600 or Ronald McDonald House Charities at 608-232-4660.

Blogger's Note: Sun Prairie's Pete Schmeling (above left) is the Director of Major and Planned Gifts for the St. Mary's Foundation. Pete shared with me that this Ronald McDonald House Family Room will be open to Sun Prairie residents with kids being treated at St. Mary's in Madison.

Woodman's to Break Ground in Sun Prairie (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Business Blogs)

Woodman's to Break Ground in Sun Prairie

http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/business/119401904.html

Blogger's note: Thanks for the good news, Clint Woodman! Looking forward to getting you officially underway here in Sun Prairie.

Owners of Forever Yours Jewelry Raise $13,000 for Badger Honor Flight (Forever Yours Jewelry)

Laurie and John Krueger, owners of Forever Yours Jewelry and Collector's Choice Coins and Collectibles in Downtown Sun Prairie, helped raise $13,000 in the Wausau area for wounded vets and and the Badger Honor Flight program. They worked with the Ringle VFW to put together a banquet and had a silent and live auction of wood carvings by John's dad, Harvey. It was a huge success and the funds will be used to take three wounded vets on a fishing charter on Lake Michigan, and about 20 Veterans will be able to go on the Honor Flight to Washington D.C.

Stop in to their shop in Downtown Sun Prairie and thank Laurie and John for their efforts!

Click here for more information on Forever Yours Jewelry.

Click here for more information on Harvey Krueger's Wood Carvings.

Click here for more information on Badger Honor Flight.

Blogger's Note: Sun Prairie Star editor Chris Mertes has also been doing a lot of work with Badger Honor Flight. Check out some of his efforts on Facebook and in the Star.

Marilyn Holt-Smith is one of nation’s most successful stock pickers (Madison.com)

Marilyn Holt-Smith is one of nation’s most successful stock pickers

http://host.madison.com/business/article_62036a92-5bd8-11e0-bb61-001cc4c03286.html

Blogger's Note: Another great example of the incredible talent of the professionals and business people that call Sun Prairie home.

Stechschulte to Market Sun Prairie Retail Sites at ICSC Wisconsin Idea Exchange April 7th (City of Sun Prairie Office of Economic Development)

Sun Prairie, Wisconsin will be well represented at the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) 2011 Wisconsin Idea Exhange and Alliance Program being held at the Frontier Airlines Center in Milwaukee this Thursday April 7th. Economic Development Director Neil Stechschulte will be presenting on available retail sites as a part of the Municipal Runway session in the morning, and will be staffing a table as a part of the Municipal Showcase with information on specific sites and buildings in the afternoon. This event is attended by national and regional retailers and commecial real estate professionals seeking potential projects throughout Wisconsin.

Click here for more information on the ICSC 2011 Wisconsin Idea Exhange and Alliance Program.

Sun Prairie Blues Fest Announces the 2011 Lineup (Sun Prairie Blues Fest)

The lineup is set for the 2011 Sun Prairie Blues Fest scheduled for September 10, 2011 and includes:

The Playground of Sound

Alex Wilson

A.J. Love's All Star Blues Showdown featuring Westside Andy, Barrelhouse Chuck and Steve Freund

The Jimmys

Ken Saydak

All time blues legend W.C. Clark

Click here to follow the Sun Prairie Blues Fest on Facebook.

You can also visit the Sun Prairie Blues Fest Website at: http://spbluesfest.com/

Friends Pledge $25,000 in Honor of PAC's Retiring Mary Kay von Allmen (Sun Prairie Star)

Friends Pledge $25,000 in Honor of PAC's Retiring Mary Kay von Allmen (Photo by Chris Mertes)

http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=52&ArticleID=7169

Blogger's Note: Congratulations Mary Kay! Why do I get the feeling she's going to be even busier now that she's "retired?"

Woodman's Subject of April 12th Planning Commission Meeting (Sun Prairie Star)

A request by Woodman's to reconfigure the buildings on its previously approved site is up for consideration by the Sun Prairie Plan Commission during its April 12 meeting.

City Planning Director Scott Kugler said public meetings on requests by Woodman’s Food Market, Inc. for approval of a revised precise implementation plan for the construction of a 222,650 square foot grocery store and an auto service facility, and preliminary and final plats to create an 8-lot commercial subdivision located to the north of the proposed grocery store will be part of the commission agenda.

Kugler said a plan for the grocery store and auto service facility was approved in 2008, but the applicant is amending the plan to reconfigure the buildings on the site.

Source: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=2&ArticleID=7171

Blogger's Note: Assuming everything goes smoothly here, Woodman's would like to be breaking ground by no later than June 1st and will be under construction for about a year.

Sun Prairie Represented in Feedback Session on WEDC Strategic Plan (City of Sun Prairie Office of Economic Development)

Sun Prairie Economic Development Director Neil Stechschulte was invited by Wisconsin Department of Commerce Secretary Paul Jadin to participate in 1 of 6 feedback sessions on the strategic plan for the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). The WEDC is scheduled to become operational as of July 1, 2011. The meeting was Friday April 1st at Alliant Energy's headquarters in the American Center in Madison, Wisconsin.

Secretary Jadin and Deputy Secretary Mike Klonsinski presented a brief overview of the draft strategic plan. The document included a mission statement, a summary of core values, key performance indicators, four key strategies, and a preliminary organizational chart for the WEDC and its governing board.

Information from all 6 meetings will be collected and used to make final amendments to the draft strategic plan. Additional details on the final strategic plan will be announced and shared at four meetings around the State being hosted by the Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA) on the following dates and locations:

April 19, 2011 - Eau Claire @ Chippewa Valley Technical College - Gateway Campus, Rm 130

April 21, 2011 - Appleton @ Fox Valley Technical College- Bordini Center, Room 103

May 3, 2011 - Wausau @ Northcentral Technical College - Center for Health Sciences, Room 2016

May 4, 2011 - Waukesha @ Country Springs Hotel - Woodfield Room

Each meeting will include an overview of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation by Secretary Paul Jadin and Deputy Secretary Mike Klonsinski, an overview of the Application Process for Financial Requests, a discussion on WEDA Government Relations and Economic Development in the 2011 – 2013 Budget, and Changing the Economic Development Service Delivery Model in Wisconsin.

Please contact the WEDA office with any questions or for registration information at weda@weda.org or 608-255-5666.

You may also click here to register or for more information.

Crosse House Hosts Spring Thaw Expo (Sun Prairie Star/Craigslist)

The historic Crosse House, 133 W. Main in Sun Prairie presents its first-ever Spring Thaw Expo on April 2 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m, featuring local entrepreneurs and businesses as well as food samples, business opportunities and more.

The Spring Thaw Expo is yet another example of how those associated with the historic Crosse House continue to feature events designed to not only get people into the home to see it, but also experience things about Sun Prairie that few people get to experience.

And it’s another opportunity to get people into the downtown to show off everything Sun Prairie has to offer downtown.

*Door Prizes
*Free Chair Massages
*Food Samples
*Free Samples
*Fun
*Free Admission!

Come and thaw out at the Spring Thaw Expo!

When: Saturday, April 2nd, 2011
Where: Crosse House 133 W. Main Street, Sun Prairie, WI
Time: 10am-5pm

Vendors Include:

*Shaklee
*Wildtree
*Miche Bags
*Norwex
*Sentsy
*GiGi Hill
*Tastefully Simple
*Arbonne
*Tupperware
*Thirty One Gifts
*The Spa
*Pampered Chef
*Qivana
*Kyra's Kards

Bring your friends and enjoy a great day of shopping and relaxation!

For more information on the Crosse House, go to http://www.crossehouse.org/.

90 Days into Project 365: Breaking Down the Stats (City of Sun Prairie Office of Economic Devlelopment)

Here is a quick summary of key statistics on visitors to Project 365 year to date through March 31st:

1. Overview of visits and visitors:

1,471 visitors
2,243 visits
3,711 page views
63.17% new visits
Highest daily visitors: 65

2. How folks get to the blog:

Direct Traffic: 30.72%
Referring Sites: 34.73%
Search Engines: 34.55%

3. Top search terms used to find the blog:

sun prairie economic development
wisconsin cheeseman auction
baba's supper club
project 365 sun prairie
el patron sun prairie
nyse:ftr
ladies night

4. Top origin of visits by City:

Madison, WI - 686
Sun Prairie, WI - 429
St. Louis, MO - 67
New York, NY - 49
Milwaukee, WI - 45
Chicago, IL - 40
St. Ann, MO - 39
Rochester, MN - 34
Janesville, WI - 14
Florissant, MO - 12

Total: 504 Cities, 53 Countries

5. Average time on the site

1 minute, 45 seconds

Questions on Project 365 can be addressed to Neil Stechschulte, Economic Development Director for the City of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin at nstechschulte[at]cityofsunprairie.com or (608) 825-0894, or click here for more information.