Sun Prairie's Michael Allen of Energy Law Wisconsin Presents at the Small Wind Installers Conference (Sun Prairie Star)

Allen Presents at Wind Conference

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=52&ArticleID=7784&TM=63313.71

Blogger's Note: A great reminder that its time for another Wind Power Happy Hour in Sun Prairie. Thanks Mike!

Sun Prairie Domino's Pizza gets 'Eyes of the Customer' Award (Sun Prairie Star)

Sun Prairie Domino's Pizza gets 'Eyes of the Customer' Award

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=52&ArticleID=7786&TM=82879.47

Frontier Sun Prairie Facility to Become Assignment Center; 50 Jobs to Be Added (City of Sun Prairie Office of Economic Development)

Frontier Communications Senior Vice President and General Manager for the National Region Rhonda Lutzke Speaks with Sun Prairie Mayor John Murray at their ribbon cutting ceremony at the Sun Prairie offices on Tuesday June 28th. (Photo by Neil Stechschulte)

Frontier Communications officially announced the transition of the Sun Prairie facility to an "Assignment Center" for dispatching work crews for service territories in 35 states. More than 100 current employees are undergoing training for this new responsibility, and Frontier is anticipating hiring an additional 50 employees over the next 12 months. Participating Frontier officials included Senior Vice President and General Manager for the National Region Rhonda Lutzke, Mike O'Keefe Senior Vice President for Operations Support, Sr. Vice President for the Central Region John Lass, and and Wisconsin Southern Region General Manager Terry Kucera.

To view today's announcement ceremony, click on the following videos provided by the Sun Prairie Star:

Frontier Ribbon Cutting (1 of 5)
Frontier Ribbon Cutting (2 of 5)
Frontier Ribbon Cutting (3 of 5)
Frontier Ribbon Cutting (4 of 5)
Frontier Ribbon Cutting (5 of 5)

Blogger's Note: Thank you to Frontier for making this investment in Sun Prairie. We look forward to expanding our partnerships with you and growing our community as you grow your company.

UPDATE - Link to full article in the Sun Prairie Star: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=50&ArticleID=7775

CEO of Sun Prairie's Fariway Independent Mortgage Focuses on 'Precious Present' (Madison.com)

Photo: Fairway Independent Mortgage Company
Steve Jacobson Addresses Employees at the 2010 Annual Meeting

Executive Q&A: Mortgage CEO Focuses on 'Precious Present'

Link to Full Article: http://host.madison.com/business/article_ff2bdd72-9ecc-11e0-b251-001cc4c03286.html

Blogger's Note: Despite a tougher regulatory climate for mortgage companies in Wisconsin and having multiple states where they have operations, Mr. Jacobson continues to have his corporate headquarters for the 1,040 employees here in Sun Prairie--including 30 who work in Sun Prairie.

Sun Prairie Rotary Announces 2011 Service Above Self Recipients (Sun Prairie Star)

Sun Prairie Rotary Announces 2011 Service Above Self Recipients

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?Search=1&ArticleID=7711&SectionID=4&SubSectionID=129&S=1

Blogger's Note: Congratulations to Joe Chase, Matt Harms, Rebecca Ketelsen, Anita Holcomb and Pam Klute. Sun Prairie continues to be blessed with citizens and business people that exhibit an amazing sense of responsibility for our community.

City Hall Pet Gifts Holds Dog Wash Benefit for Custom Canines (Submitted by Ellie Humphrey)

(Photo and article submitted by E. Humphrey)

Sun Prairie dog lovers, listen up- there's a new pooch in town. Located in the historic City Hall building downtown at 100 E. Main Street, City Hall Pet Gifts is Sun Prairie's newest pet boutique. With an assortment of designer pet duds and pet friendly bakery items, your dog is sure to love this store just for them.

Today from 11-4 pm CH Pets hosted "Barkin' Bubbles," a dog wash fundraiser that benefitted Custom Canines, a non-profit service dog training organization. Custom Canines is dedicated to empowering adults and children with limitations by training canine companions to assist their unique needs at no cost to them. Whether its guide dogs, visual companions, service or autism assistance dogs- Custom Canine graduates are top notch. Learn more about the organization online at www.customcanines.org.

If you couldn't make it to the Barkin' Bubbles event, bring your four-legged friend in weekdays 10:30-5:30 or weekends 11:00-4:00 to find a unique treat or toy. Or visit CH Pet Gifts online at www.cityhallpetgifts.com to shop anytime.

Frontier Communications Senior VP & General Manager Becky Berkey Potts Visits Sun Prairie (City of Sun Prairie Office of Economic Development)

Frontier Communications Senior Vice President and General Manager Becky Berkey Potts visited the Sun Prairie and Portage offices this past week to meet with her Wisconsin offices and staff. Since taking on her current role last year, her areas of responsibility include operations proficiency, employee relations, community relations, competition and customer ownership by fostering innovation and working cross-functionally. Her territory includes Utah, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, and Wisconsin. Becky's duties will bring her to Wisconsin to meet with her Wisconsin team several times every year.

She attended the Social Media Breakfast meeting with Southern Wisconsin Regional Manager Terry Kucera on Wednesday, as Frontier sponsored breakfast that day. Becky and Terry also and met with City Economic Development Director Neil Stechschulte and Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce board member Pete Schmeling at Buck & Honey's on Thursday evening. The discussion over dinner included how Frontier is looking forward to being a significant partner in the City's Economic Development efforts, what services Frontier may be deploying in Sun Prairie in the coming years, and the upcoming announcement on June 28th regarding the expanding role of the Sun Prairie offices in Frontier's Wisconsin market.

About Frontier Communications

Frontier Communications Corporation is included in the S&P 500 Index offering 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 14,900 employees.

It has a 100 percent U.S.-based workforce. More information is available at www.frontier.com and www.frontier.com/ir

U.S. 151-Main Street Interchange Project Update for Week of June 27th (City of Sun Prairie Engineering Department)

The following construction activities are scheduled for the week of June 27th:

- Paving of temporary driveways to Hamilton Place off of Hart Rd and Wal-Mart semi access off O'Keeffe Ave should occur the week of June 27th.

- Installation of temporary signals at the Clarmar Drive / Main Street intersection will also continue this week. This signal will likely be operational during this same week.

- Installation of temporary signals at ramps east of STH 151 will continue but will not be made operational at this time.

- The portable message boards will be updated and revised.

- The northbound on-ramp and the southbound off-ramp will not be closed until after July 4th. The other ramps are slated to be open to traffic.

- Temporary pavement will be installed to accommodate lane shifts for future phases of construction.

Key Contact Information:

City of Sun Prairie Project Office: (608) 215-1167

WisDOT Project Office: (608) 834-1207

Contractor Office (R.G. Huston): (608) 255-9223

Project Office Address: 1632 W. Main St. (Access from Hart Rd.)

E-mail: mainstreet@cityofsunprairie.com

Frontier Communications to Celebrate 1-Year Anniversary, Make Announcement on Sun Prairie Operations (Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce)

Frontier Communications is hosting a Ribbon Cutting and Community Cook-out on Tuesday, June 28th to celebrate Sun Prairie's New Assignments Facility and the company's one year anniversary of becoming the new communications provider in Wisconsin and 13 other states. Program begins at 11:30 am with brief remarks by Mayor John Murray, Frontier Sr. VP Rhonda Lutzke and others. Come on out for grilled brats and facility tours, 100 Communications Drive. RSVP to by June 24th to Amber at 837-1149 or amber.m.bryan@ftr.com.

Click here for more information on Frontier Communications.

UPDATE: Click here for more information from Channel3000.com.

Sun Prairie Student Wins Competitive Internship in Community Health (Sun Prairie Star)

Sun Prairie Student Wins Competitive Internship in Community Health

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=50&ArticleID=7710

Click here for more information on the Wisconsin Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) System.

Blogger's Note: Did I mention that healthcare was one of our emerging target sectors?

QBE Hosts 'Breakfast of Champions' (Press Release)

QBE hosted a special event recognizing 146 Sun Prairie School District fifth graders for their accomplishments during the school year.

Each year, the “Breakfast of Champions” honors students who turn in all their class assignments on time. QBE provided the breakfast in its employee cafeteria, Target donated door prizes and Ameriprint Apparel supplied custom-made T-shirts. Senior honor students from Sun Prairie High School were in attendance to usher students to and from the buses and hand out T-shirts.

QBE spokesman Andy Doll says QBE is pleased to support the community through events like the Breakfast of Champions. “We congratulate these young people on being leaders and setting a good example for other students in their schools.”

Click here for more information on QBE.

For Immediate Release
June 17, 2011
Contact: Paula M. Symons, APR
Communications Consultant
608.825.5029, paula.symons@us.qbe.com

Sun Prairie Shines at Social Media Breakfast (City of Sun Prairie Office of Economic Development)

Panelists at the Social Media Breakfast in Madison Discuss Their Trade (Photo by Neil Stechschulte)

I just want everybody to know how with it Sun Prairie is when it comes to social media.

Ellie Humphrey and Tony Rodriguez, co-managers of Social Media Breakfast Madison are both Sun Prairie residents.

Of the five social media panelists presenting on "Starting Social Media from Scratch" at today's Social Media Breakfast Madison meeting at Harbor Athletic Club, two of them had direct ties to Sun Prairie: Tony Rodriguez (the same as mentioned previously) is owner of Mad City Ads (and as previously stated is a Sun Prairie resident). Lynn Belken is new Director of Marketing and Customer Education for WPPI Energy (formerly with Focus on Energy).

The sponsor for breakfast was from Sun Prairie's own Frontier Communications (Thanks Terry).

Finally, I also met at least three other people with direct ties to Sun Prairie.

With so much interest coming our way, we're hoping to get the SMB Madison team over to Sun Prairie a bit more often.

City of Sun Prairie and Sun Prairie Chamber Co-Host 2nd Annual Business Park Networking Breakfast (City of Sun Prairie Office of Economic Development

Mayor John Murray prepares to introduce Wisconsin Department of Regulation & Licensing Secretary Dave Ross to attendees to the 2nd Annual Business Park Networking Breakfast (Photo by Neil Stechschulte)

City of Sun Prairie and Sun Prairie Chamber Co-Host 2nd Annual Business Park Networking Breakfast

37 people from 19 different companies attended the 2nd Annual Business Park Networking Breakfast held Tuesday morning at Wisconsin Distributors. Participating companies included: Coakley Brothers/Datastore, MSI Mechanical Systems, Faith Technologies, Appliance Products, Regius Rubber, Independent Pharmacy Cooperative, Badger Graphics, Harms Insurance, Pro-Active Engineering, Palmer Johnson, Frontier Communications, Wisconsin Distributors, Prairie Land Towing, Matrix Product Development, Inform, Four Lakes Label, TREK Diagnostics, WPPI Energy, and Sun Prairie Utilities.

Mayor John Murray invited Secretary Dave Ross from the Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing to speak, and introduced him to crowd. Secretary Ross discussed his department's efforts to 1) speed up the administrative investigation process and 2) eliminate unnecessary investigations into non-legitimate complaints about license holders. He also discussed Governor Walker's budget, including impacts to local governments.

Attendees were asked to introduce themselves, their company, their primary product or service, and were asked to name one challenge that they were currently facing. The several responses having to do with the slow economy as a whole were no surprise. The number of comments and concerns voiced from several small manufacturers and warehousing businesses about their difficulties finding employees, however, indicates that this concern is an issue needing some attention. Specifically, the concern centered around the ability to find skilled employees for hands-on technical positions.

"The City of Sun Prairie and the Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce are going to respond to this issue immediately, and have already begun to discuss how we can work together to address this apparent growing concern" said Neil Stechschulte, Economic Development Director. "The Chamber had already scheduled workforce development as a topic for one of their upcoming monthly lunch meetings later this summer, and it was very obvious that employers in attendance today would like us to address this issue as soon as possible."

Stechschulte stated several initiatives would likely be developed in the next week or so, and a schedule for implementation would be announced shortly thereafter. The City will be reaching out to local and State partners right away, including but not limited to DWD, WORC, the Sun Prairie Area School District, Madison College, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Milwaukee School of Engineering, and other local training resources.

Stechschulte went on to say, "In order to attract new light manufacturing uses to our City in the future, we need to rise up to the challenge and assist the quality manufacturing companies we already have in the business park and throughout our community. This is something we need to do right now."

Sun Prairie Community Development Authority Under Mayor John Murray Begins to Expand its Reach (Sun Prairie Star)

CDA Board extends deadline to August 31

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=52&ArticleID=7688

Blogger's Note: It's great to have a group willing to talk about what we can do to better market the community. I'm looking forward to feedback from our CDA as we move forward on some of these initiatives.

The marketing strategies I outlined at this meeting are pretty basic for now, but they should get us through 2011. Key points for the short term: 1) Focusing on 2-3 target sectors, 2) Ensure we have accurate, current community profile information in digital and hard copy formats, 3) Maximize our online presence, and 4) Reaching out to local commercial Realtors, regional developers, and national site selection consultants for specific types buildings and properties.

As for some things we'll be looking at beyond 2011, they include looking at how to encourage more entrepreneurship, expanding the housing options for higher income earners, and pre-qualifying our industrial parcels as certified development sites.

Have some ideas? E-mail me at nstechschulte[at]cityofsunprairie.com.

Common Wealth Development gets $60,000 Grant from Great Lakes Higher Education for Youth Business Mentoring Program (Madison Times)

CWD gets $60,000 Grant from Great Lakes Higher Education

Link to Full Article: http://www.themadisontimes.com/news_details.php?news_id=1095

Click here for more information on Common Wealth Development.

Blogger's Note: This grant allowed the Youth Business Mentoring program to expand to Sun Prairie High School.

Project 365 Continues to Expand its Reach and Influence (City of Sun Prairie Office of Economic Development)

Project 365 Now on Facebook and Twitter

In response to a growing interest in social media from local residents and businesses, Sun Prairie's Economic Development News Blog and Project 365 will now be accessible via Twitter and Facebook. Links to daily blog posts will be published on both social media sites. This will allow for even wider and faster access to news posts, including updates to the 151-Main St. Interchange construction project. These can be accessed at:

City of Sun Prairie's Project 365 on Facebook





Project 365 SP on Twitter (@SunPrairie365)





Other Sources for Project 365

The Project 365 blog feed is now carried by the following social media outlets:

The Star on Facebook
Sun Prairie Star Twitter
Ken Harwood's Wisconsin Development News
Neil Stechschulte's Profile on LinkedIn.com (for connections only)
Neil Stechschulte's Profile on LoopNet.com

National and Local Interest

Economic Development Director Neil Stechschulte has presented on Project 365 in two national webinars with Frontier Communications and GIS Planning (click here for the presentation). The Wisconsin State Journal featured Stechschulte and Project 365 as a part of their Executive Q&A. He has also spoken to multiple local businesses and organizations about the project and how they can participate. Project 365 is regularly being discussed and cited by economic development professionals around the country as a model application of blogging for economic development. Examples: See Strengthening Brand America's article titled "Make up Your Own Mind on the Role of Social Media," and the Economic Development Professionals group on LinkedIn: "How Important is it for an EDO to Have a Blog?"

Project 365 Approaches Half Way Point

Watch for an update of blog traffic statistics from Google Analytics on or around July 1st. It is also anticipated that July will feature stories and profiles on business park companies and other major employers.

Follow Sun Prairie Resident Trying to Buy a New Car Using Just Social Media (SocialPoser.com)

I’m Buying a 2011 Ford Explorer in Madison, WI. Who Wants my Business?

Link to the Full Blog Post: http://socialposer.com/im-buying-a-2011-ford-explorer-in-madison-wi-who-wants-my-business/

Blogger's Notes: Sun Prairie resident Collin Kromke is in the market for a new car. He already knows what he wants. He also knows how he wants to get it. Collin is using Twitter and Facebook to see what Ford dealers in the Madison area are actually using these social media to serve their customers. If they want the deal, its going to have to be made online using social media to negotiate it. Why? Because Collin takes his social media pretty seriously, as he is the Social Media Administrator and Marketer for American Family Insurance. And I think he just wanted to see what would happen.

He's had mixed but interesting results, including his first contact back being from a Ford dealer in Canada! Follow Collin's online adventures on any of the following media to see how this turns out:

Social Poser (Collin Kromke's blog): http://socialposer.com/
Twitter: @collin_k
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/collin.kromke/posts/10150284810717349

151-Main Street Interchange Project Update for the Week of 6/20/11

151-Main Street Interchange Project Update for the Week of 6/20/11

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Welcome-to-the-151-Main-Street-Project-E-Mail-List.html?soid=1105140942393&aid=GpNnQlW6S5I

Blogger's Note: You can now also get these and other Project 365 updates via Facebook and Twitter!

Sun Prairie Twitter Users Help Lead Unique New Marketing Campaign (City of Sun Prairie Office of Economic Development)

(Photo Credit: Social Media Club of Madison)

Sun Prairie's Ellie Humphrey and Tony Rodriguez are regular participants of the Madison Social Media Club and Social Media Breakfast. Today, they were out and about with social media guru Wendy Soucie working on a unique marketing event called the #lincolndriveby (for anyone wanting to follow the project on Twitter).

The project includes driving a brand new Lincoln MKS sponsored by Ford to local businesses that are known for their social media efforts and having a picture taken with the car and the Twitter hashtag #lincolndriveby. The photos will be collected and shared via Twitter and will be used to co-promote these local businesses as well as the Ford's new Lincoln MKS. (It also should be neat experiment in demonstrating the power of social media in advertising.)

Several stops were made in the Sun Prairie area, including Beans 'n' Cream, Frontier Communications (shown above). The #lincolndriveby will be occurring over at least the next week.

Think your business is worthy of a #lincolndriveby? Contact Ellie Humphrey (@E_Humphrey) or Tony Rodriquez (@MadCityAds) via Twitter to get your business on the list for a photo! or and use the #lincolndriveby hashtag!

UPDATE: Follow Ellie Humphrey's blog about the #lincolndriveby by clicking here.

Planning Commission Advances Several New Projects (Sun Prairie Star)

Commission Backs Auto Parts Shop

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=52&ArticleID=7685&TM=69094.7

Blogger's Note: Don't let the headline sell this short. This is a redevelopment of a site that needs some investment. Plus there is new outside deck at El Patron, and a new dental clinic is out by Walgreen's West. Here's to hoping this is just the beginning of some more new projects in 2011.

Sun Prairie Star Highlights "Super Saturday" (Sun Prairie Star)

Our View: Super Saturday - Enjoy StrawberryFest, Block Party June 18

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=5&SubSectionID=5&ArticleID=7677&TM=69204

Blogger's Note: If you're bored this weekend, its your own fault. Come on down!

Highway 19 Meeting Scheduled for June 22 (Sun Prairie Star)

Highway 19 Meeting Scheduled for June 22

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=52&ArticleID=7647

Tourism Commission Debates Social Media Expansion (Sun Prairie Star)

Tourism Commission Debates Social Media Expansion

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/Main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=52&ArticleID=7608

Click here to visit the Sun Prairie Tourism Commission website.

Click here to visit the Sun Prairie Tourism Commission on Facebook.

Click here to visit the Sun Prairie Tourism Commission on Twitter.

Blogger's Note: Since Facebook tops Google for weekly traffic, this is probably a good idea.

Thrive Named Top Economic Development Agency at 2011 Best of Wisconsin Business Awards (Various)

Thrive announced that they have been recognized by Corporate Report Wisconsin as the Best Economic Development Agency at the 2011 Best of Wisconsin Business Awards on June 10th, 2011.

Click here for a full list of finalists in all categories in Corporate Report Wisconsin.

Click here to follow Thrive on Facebook.

Blogger's note: Congratulations to Sean and his team. Looking forward to additional progress and successes in promoting the Madison Region as a place to do business.

Madison International Trade Association Offers Workshop for Exporters (Sun Prairie Star)

MITA Offers Workshop for Exporters

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=52&ArticleID=7652

Click here for more information on the Madison International Trade Association.

Construction on 151-Main Street Interchange to Begin Week of June 13th (City of Sun Prairie Engineering Department)

Construction is likely to begin on the U.S. 151-Main St. interchange next week. The contractor is waiting for final approvals and the go ahead from WisDOT. Drivers will notice that traffic control devices (i.e. barrels, barricades and signage) have already begun to be placed in the shoulder and medians. The first stage will include placing traffic controls where needed to allow for the construction of a lane crossover section near Thompson Road.

Weekly construction meetings will begin next Thursday June 16th at 9:00 a.m. at the project field office at 1632 W. Main St.

Questions or concerns during the project can be addressed to City Engineering staff at (608) 215-1167.

Persons or businesses interested in being on the project e-mail update list should send their e-mail address and optional phone number to mainstreet@cityofsunprairie.com or can call Economic Development Director Neil Stechschulte at (608) 825-0894 to ask to be placed on the list. The City plans to issue an update via e-mail, the City Website and this news blog after each weekly meeting. Information will also be shared with the Sun Prairie Star as well as the Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce. Additional updates will be issued as they become known.

Thrive Announces Advance Now Strategic Initiative (Thrivehere.org)

Advance Now is a comprehensive, action-oriented regional economic development strategy that will systematically move the Madison Region’s economy forward. The eight-month process will engage public- and private-sector leaders to define a shared vision for sustained economic growth. The project will culminate in a detailed implementation plan that includes tangible performance metrics, capacity assessments, and one-to-five year action plans.

Click here for a full description of the Advance Now initiative.

SSM Health Care of Wisconsin Wins Wisconsin Forward Award. (SSMPeople.com)

SSM Health Care of Wisconsin just learned they have won the Wisconsin Forward Award at the Mastery Level, the second highest level of the awards. The awards are based on the Baldrige Criteria for Performance Excellence. St. Mary’s Hospital, Madison, Wis., St. Mary’s Care Center, Madison, and St. Clare Hospital & Health Center, Baraboo, Wis., have been past winners of Wisconsin Forward Awards, but this is the first year SSM Health Care of Wisconsin applied as a region. The award ceremonies will be held in late summer or early fall.

Link to Full Newsletter: http://www.ssmpeople.com/SiteDirectory/SSMLink/Pages/SSMLink06-06-11.aspx

Click here for more information on the Wisconsin Forward Award.

Click here for more information on SSM Health Care of Wisconsin.

St. Mary's President Dr. Frank Byrne Listed Among Influential Physician Executives (Madison.com)

Byrne Listed Among Influential Physician Executives

Link to Full Article: http://host.madison.com/wsj/business/article_6caa513e-91ef-11e0-b99c-001cc4c03286.html?sourcetrack=moreArticle

Blogger's Note: Sounds like the right guy to help us get that hospital built in Sun Prairie to me. Congratulations Dr. Byrne!

Upcoming Events at Olympic Village (Independent Living, Inc.)

Here is a list of upcoming events at Olympic Village in June:

"Managing Your Money: Free Seminar for Priceless Information"
Thursday, June 9, 1 p.m.
Budgeting, bill-paying, I.D. theft and scams.
Independent Living, Inc.'s Financial Management Specialists tackle it all!

"A Salute to Old Glory! Flag Day Celebration and Community Dinner"
Tuesday, June 14, 5 p.m.
Free music and games at 5 p.m., then stay for a fun, informal dinner at 6 p.m. (The dinner features a special menu prepared by Independent Living, Inc.'s Chef Susan at a low cost of $9.00 per person, but you'll want to reserve your spot by calling 608-225-6376 today!)

"Navigating the Maze of Senior Housing Seminar"
Wednesday, June 22, 4 p.m
Free and open to all! Information focuses on finding a home to match your lifestyle!

"The Zoo Comes To You!"
Tuesday, June 28, 1 p.m.
Free and open to all! Join us as we meet some of the zoo's most popular and bizarre animals, up-close-and-personal!

Click here for more information on Olympic Village.

Questions regarding any of these events at Olympic Village may contact:

Teri Barr, Director of Public and Media Relations
Independent Living, Inc.
(608) 274-7900 x 131
tbarr@indepenliving.com
http://www.indepenliving.com/

Parade Of Homes Includes Bristol Neighborhood, Near Sun Prairie (Channel3000.com)

Parade Of Homes Includes Bristol Neighborhood, Near Sun Prairie

Link to Full Article: http://sunprairie.channel3000.com/news/business/parade-homes-includes-bristol-neighborhood-near-sun-prairie/53421

Thrive's Online Capital Connections Inventory Now Searchable (Thirve)

We recognize that financial capital is crucial to business development, but can be all too difficult to find and obtain. That's why we’ve created the Capital Connections Inventory, a comprehensive database of financial tools available in the Madison Region. Its now even easier to find funding opportunities for your business, nonprofit, or community. Check out our new searchable online Capital Connections Inventory with 300+ financial programs available at the federal, state, and local levels.

Click here to view Thrive's Capital Connections inventory.

Sun Prairie Utilities Hosts Appreciation Cook-Out for Large Electrical Customers (City of Sun Prairie Office of Economic Development)

Several of Sun Prairie's larger electrical customers braved the high temperatures and got lunch from Sun Prairie Utilities today. Participants included Palmer Johnson Power Systems, Soderholm Foods, Veyance Technologies and the Sun Prairie Area School District. Other attendees included WPPI Energy President Mike Peters, WPPI Energy Senior Vice President of Member & Customer Services Tom Paque, several local members of the Sun Prairie Utilities Commission, and Sun Prairie Utilities staff. This event has become an annual affair under the leadership and direction of Sun Prairie Utilities Director Rick Wicklund and WPPI Energy Services Representative Tamara Sondgeroth. It boils down to good food, good networking, and a good chance to strengthen the relationship between the utility and its customers. Most importantly, its a chance to show a little appreciation to some of the most important customers Sun Prairie Utilities serves.

Click here for more information on Sun Prairie Utilities.

Click here for more information on WPPI Energy.

Blogger's Note: Special thanks to all the Sun Prairie Utilities crew who helped with today's cookout!

Blogger's Note #2: Did I mention that our local electrical rates can be 10-20% less than neighboring investor owned utilities? Call the Sun Prairie Utilities office at (608) 837-5500 if you think I'm kidding!

Stechschulte Presents to First Weber Realtors on Sun Prairie Economic Development Initiatives (City of Sun Prairie Office of Economic Development)

At the gracious invitation of Rose Freidel, Sun Prairie Economic Development Director Neil Stechschulte spoke to First Weber real estate professionals from their East Towne and Sun Prairie offices on Tuesday June 7th. Topics covered included the role of local government in economic development, how tax incremental financing (TIF) works, available assistance programs in Sun Prairie, a summary of target economic sectors, an overview of the status of current development projects and an introduction to "Project 365."

Click here for more information on First Weber Group.

Blogger's Note: Thanks to the entire First Weber team that came to my presentation today, and thanks to Rose for the invitation. Active, knowledgeable real estate professionals are some of the most valuable people I work with.

P.S. - If you want to know what Young Frankenstein, Sam Walton and Aaron Rodgers have to do with economic development in Sun Prairie, you'll just have to have me come present to your organization sometime.

Upcoming Events and Festivals in Sun Prairie (Sun Prairie Tourism Commission)

If you're bored in Sun Prairie these next couple of weekends...it won't be because there isn't anything to do:

June 4th - Family Aquatic Center Opens for Season - 12:30 pm-5:00 pm - 920 Linnerud Dr. - http://ow.ly/54vl9

June 11th - Sun Prairie Farmers Market - 7am-Noon - Church and Main Street - http://spfarmersmarket.com/

June 11th - Taste of the Arts Fair - 9am-4pm - Sheehan Park - 608-837-4547 - http://sunprairiechamber.com/

June 11th - Georgia O’Keeffe Celebration CANCELLED - 10am-3pm - Sun Prairie Public Library - http://sunprairiepubliclibrary.org/

June 11th-12th - Senior Power Lifting Competition - Prairie Athletic Club - More Information: 608-280-1578 - http://prairieathletic.com/

June 12th - Mounds Dog Fest - 10am-4pm - Angell Park - Contests, Activities, Demonstrations, Adoptable Pets Parade - http://moundspet.com/

June 18th - Downtown Block Party - Live Music - Great Food - 11am-8pm - Cannery Square Plaza - http://ow.ly/5atgV

June 18th - 24th Annual Strawberry Fest - 8am-3pm - Colonial Club Senior Center - 301 Blankenheim Lane - http://colonialclub.org/

Click here for more information on events here in Sun Prairie Wisconsin.

You can also follow the Sun Prairie Tourism Commission on Facebook by clicking here.

Beer Wholesaler Bill Advances (JSOnline.com)

Beer Wholesaler Bill Advances

Link to Full Article: http://www.jsonline.com/business/122991428.html

Click here for more information on Wisconsin Distributors.

You can also follow Wisconsin Distributors on Facebook by clicking here.

Blogger's Note: It will be interesting to see how this affects Wisconsin Distributors here in Sun Prairie.

From the article..."Anheuser-Busch became a minority owner of Wisconsin Distributors, in Appleton and Sun Prairie, in 2006. Since then, Wisconsin Distributors has expanded its business and hired more employees... Anheuser-Busch opposes the proposal, saying it reduces competition, said Terri Vogt, vice president of communications. Brewery-owned wholesalers give brewers competitive access in difficult markets, and allow brewers to provide financial help to wholesalers, the company said."

The 29th Annual Taste of the Arts Fair - Sat. June 11th 9am-4pm (Various)

The 29th Annual Taste of the Arts Fair
Saturday, June 11th; 9 am-4pm
Sheehan Park, 1351 Linnerud Drive, Sun Prairie, WI

Featuring:

Wine & Cheese Tasting - For the price of $5, individuals will be able to sample three wines each from Botham Vineyard and Winery, Three Lakes Winery and Sutter Home Winery. Smith said because there was such great attendance at the wine and cheese tasting last year, some specialty beers from Wisconsin Distributors will be available for sampling this year as well.

Over 100 vendors with a variety of crafts, fine art, garden art, jewelry, specialty foods and more!

Entertainment Schedule - 11:00 am: Sun Prairie Community Band, 12:30 pm: Sun Prairie Area Chorus

Children's Activities - 9 am to 4 pm: Children's Inflatables in the playground area.

Click here for more information from the Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce.

You can also follow Taste of the Arts on Facebook here.

Link to Article in the Star: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=4&SubSectionID=129&ArticleID=7568

Family Atmosphere, Quality Food Start at Day One (Sun Prairie Star)

Family Atmosphere, Quality Food Start at Day One (Photo by Chris Mertes)

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=52&ArticleID=7597&TM=22401.55

Motors & Music Event Set for June 3-4 (Sun Prairie Star)

Motors & Music Event Set for June 3-4

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestaronline.com/main.asp?Search=1&ArticleID=7515&SectionID=4&SubSectionID=129&S=1

Click here for more information on Motors and Music.

Blogger's Note: If you already missed yesterday like I did...get over to Angell Park today and check out nice wheels and good tunes.

Advance Auto Parts, New Dental Office on Planning Commission Agenda (Sun Prairie Star)

Advance Auto Parts, New Dental Office on Commission Agenda

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestaronline.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=52&ArticleID=7599

Blogger's Note: Redevelopment of a site on Main Street that desperately needs it, a new office building on the west side, a nice new multi-family building, and a new outdoor deck at El Patron too? Music to an Economic Development Director's ears!

Sun Prairie Native Tom Loftus Among Speakers at 2011 BIO Convention (Sun Prairie Star)

Loftus Among Speakers at June 27 Conference

Sun Prairie native Tom Loftus will participate in a discussion on Wisconsin’s emerging role in addressing global health issues at a Monday, June 27, luncheon in Washington, D.C.

The “Welcome to Washington” luncheon, to be held in the Rayburn House Office Building on Independence Avenue, precedes the official start of the 2011 BIO International Convention in Washington, D.C. The convention will be held June 27-30 at the Washington Convention Center, where a Wisconsin pavilion will welcome visitors to the world’s largest biotechnology show.

The Wisconsin Technology Council is organizing the luncheon, the Wisconsin pavilion and some related BIO International events. To become a pavilion or related event sponsor, or for more information on how to attend contact Jodi Hoeser, national conference director for the Wisconsin Technology Council, at 608-442-7557 ext. 26.

Loftus was ambassador to Norway from 1993 to 1997 and served as special advisor to the director of the World Health Organization from 1998 to 2005. He was a Democratic member of the Wisconsin Legislature representing Sun Prairie from 1977 to 1991, serving as speaker of the Assembly for eight years.

Loftus continues to work with a number of emerging companies in the United States and northern Europe, including Wisconsin-based CellCura. He is completing a term on the UW System Board of Regents.

Click here for more information on the Wisconsin Pavilion at 2011 BIO Convention.

Click here for more information on the Wisconsin Technology Council.

Frontier Offers June 8 Webinar on How Companies Can Build a Successful Prescence on Facebook (Sun Prairie Star)

Frontier Offers June 8 Webinar

Link to Full Article: http://www.sunprairiestar.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=50&ArticleID=7587&TM=77162.98

Click here for more information or to register.

Former Herreman's/Baba's Restaurant for Sale or Lease (LoopNet.com)

Perfect Owner Operator Restaurant Opportunity! Seller Second Mortgage Considered. 15,950 square ft mixed use building located at a highly visible, easily accessible 1 acre site on the corner of "Main and Main" (Main St & Bristol St) w/over 25,000 car count daily. The parking lot features room for over 75 vehicles w/additional public parking across the street. Main level features a 14,000 square ft fully updated restaurant and the upper level features (2) completely renovated 2 bdrm apts.

• Price: $745,000
• Building Size: 16,000 SF
• Price/SF: $46.56
• Property Type: Retail
• Property Sub-type: Restaurant
• Additional Sub-types: Garden/Low-Rise
• Property Use Type: Vacant/Owner-User
• Commission Split: 2.5%
• Lot Size: 43,560 SF

Link to Full Listing: http://www.loopnet.com/lid/16933711

Questions can be directed to David Baehr, Realtor®,ABR, RRS, 1031 Exchange Specialist,:
Baehr Inc.
608-834-2613 Office
608-213-6686 Cell
608-834-2620 Fax
davidbaehr@charter.net