UW-Stout Polytechnic wins international TAGA Student Choice Award
Interdisciplinary team of graphic communications, graphic media, print management students’ ‘Mail Across Minneapolis’ celebrates print media Story Link FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 11, 2026 Menomonie, Wis. – In an international competition designed to celebrate the way print media brings people together across the globe, a team of University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic students won the coveted TAGA Student Choice Award at the 2026 Technical Association of the Graphic Arts, Helmut Kipphan
UW-Stout Polytechnic cybersecurity faculty win Pentagon-sponsored competition to build workforce
UW-Stout Polytechnic cybersecurity faculty win Pentagon-sponsored competition to build workforce preparedness Department of War selects platform to inspire national cyber defense education models Story Link FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJune 10, 2026 Menomonie, Wis. – A cybersecurity training platform developed by University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic faculty has won a high-stakes, Pentagon-sponsored competition and will now serve as a blueprint for scalable cybersecurity learning nationwide. The
RCU Foundation and Eau Claire Marathon Select 2027 Charity Classic Beneficiaries
RCU Foundation and Eau Claire Marathon Select 2027 Charity Classic Beneficiaries EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – The Royal Credit Union Foundation (RCU Foundation) and Eau Claire Marathon(ECM) have selected three local nonprofit organizations as beneficiaries of the 2027 ECM10K Charity Classic presented by Royal Credit Union. NAMI Chippewa Valley, NorthLakes Community Clinic, and Trinity Equestrian Center were chosen for their commitment to supporting mental health. The RCU Foundation has committed $15,000
Chippewa Falls is Gearing Up – Literally!
Chippewa Falls is Gearing Up – Literally!CHIPPEWA FALLS, WI (6.11.26) - Chippewa Falls is revving up for an unforgettable summer in 2026, as two major motorcycle rallies are set to roll into town in June of 2026. The City of Chippewa Falls will welcome back the Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) Rally and proudly host the BMW Riders Association (RA) National Rally, both taking place at the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, making Chippewa Falls an iconic destination for motorcycle enthusiasts from across the
CVTC named finalist by Aspen Institute for 2027
CVTC named finalist by Aspen Institute for 2027 $1 million Aspen Prize for community college excellence EAU CLAIRE – Today, the Aspen Institute (Aspen) named Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) as one of 10 community college finalists for the 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s signature recognition for community colleges. Backed by $1 million in award funds, the Aspen Prize honors colleges that achieve strong outcomes, focusing on whether students complete credentials that
Practical Content Creation with Adobe Firefly for Your Outdoor Services Business
What Is Adobe Firefly? Adobe Firefly is a generative artificial intelligence application focused on creating visual and creative content from simple text descriptions. It operates through your web browser to translate typed instructions into images, text effects, and vector graphics. The tool generates unique assets tailored to your business needs, and all features out of beta are fully cleared for commercial use. Running an outdoor services business in the Menomonie area requires managing many moving
Royal Credit Unions Diaper Drive Makes a Meaningful Impact
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – Royal Credit Union (Royal) successfully hosted its second annual Diaper Drive throughout May, supporting Feed My People Food Bank, St. Croix Valley Food Bank, and the Diaper Bank of Minnesota. Through the generosity of community members and team members, Royal collected more than 10,000 diapers, 134 packages of wipes, and raised over $6,600 to assist families in need. This effort equates to approximately 860 families receiving short-term emergency diaper relief across the communities
University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic amends name to reflect longstanding applied, career focus
After 135 years of innovation, ‘polytechnic’ officially added to name Story Link Photos attached FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 4, 2026 Menomonie, Wis. – Throughout its long history, the educational institution that bears the name of its founder, James Huff Stout, has continuously evolved and maintained its position at the vanguard of higher education. Over the course of 135 years, two things have remained constant. The first is the presence of its founder’s name. The second is a commitment to applied
Creating music video for underground Japanese rapper is culmination of degree experience
Creating music video for underground Japanese rapper is culmination of degree experience for UW-Stout graduate Language barrier, jet lag can’t undermine Anderson’s creative ambition Story Link Link to music video (YouTube) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 2, 2026 Menomonie, Wis. – Maya Anderson wanted to create something ambitious to cap off her B.S. video production degree at University of Wisconsin-Stout – something that would encapsulate her years of experience behind the camera, demonstrate her
2026 Scholarship Recipients
Hi Neighbor, Congratulations to the 2026 recipients of the West Wisconsin Telcom and 24-7 scholarships! We’re excited to recognize these outstanding students and wish them all the best as they begin the next chapter of their journey. This year, we were proud to award twenty $1,000 scholarships to outstanding high school seniors in our service area. These awards recognize your hard work, dedication, and commitment to your education and future goals. 2026 Scholarship Recipients Alex Berends,
A year-round campus
A year-round campus: UW-Stout welcomes more than 1,100 community members, area children for summer activities Polytechnic experiences offered at hands-on STEAM camps, professional development workshops, Murals in Menomonie festival Story Link Photos attached FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 1, 2026 Menomonie, Wis. – The academic year may have ended, but the summer is just heating up at University of Wisconsin-Stout with community classes, youth camps and a mural festival, featuring some of the
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Chippewa County Farmer Appreciation Dinner Celebrates 56 Years
Chippewa County Farmer Appreciation Dinner Celebrates 56 YearsChippewa Falls, WI (June 1, 2026) – The Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce invites the community to celebrate local agriculture at the 56th Annual Farmer Appreciation Dinner, taking place Wednesday, June 24, from 4 to 8 pm at the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds.This long-standing community tradition brings together farmers, agribusinesses, agritourism partners, local businesses, and residents for an evening dedicated to recognizing
Frothy focus
Day before graduation, CVTC students present first phase of robotic root beer tap system By Alyssa Van Duyse Chippewa Valley Technical College College students often get the reputation of being party animals, but that moniker doesn’t usually come with a side of root beer. Students from multiple programs at Chippewa Valley Technical College are collaborating on a unique, grant-funded project affectionately named RoboTap. The project, a robotic root beer cart that will eventually serve the
CVTC board approves 2026-27 budget
CVTC board approves 2026-27 budget Expenditures up less than 1 percent EAU CLAIRE – Chippewa Valley Technical College District Board approved its budget at the board meeting on Thursday. Caleb Cornelius, vice president of administration and chief strategy officer, said CVTC is committed to student and community success through meaningful instruction and sound financial planning. "We focus on providing the high-quality educational outcomes that our students and community need while actively,
Industry-standard equipment, applied learning through internships prepare UW-Stout graduates for car
Industry-standard equipment, applied learning through internships prepare UW-Stout graduates for careers CSTEMM majors among 77% of grads hired before commencement Inspiring Graduate Q&As FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 28, 2026 Menomonie, Wis. – Among the class of 849 undergraduate students who crossed the commencement stage at University of Wisconsin-Stout’s most recent ceremony on May 16, seven College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management students were recognized by faculty and
Hired before graduation:UW-Stout inspiring students begin careers
Hired before graduation: UW-Stout inspiring students begin careers with Milwaukee Tool, Pest Badger, hometown school Five inspiring graduates share polytechnic experiences in Q&As Inspiring Graduate Q&As Photos attached FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 27, 2026 Menomonie, Wis. – Among the class of 849 undergraduate students who crossed the commencement stage at University of Wisconsin-Stout’s most recent ceremony on May 16, five College of Arts and Human Sciences students were recognized by
CVTC recent grad named state RT student of the year
CVTC recent grad named state RT student of the year By Alyssa Van Duyse Chippewa Valley Technical College RIVER FALLS – At 41 years old, Chukwunonso Offiah (known as Chuk) knows firsthand what perseverance looks like. A recent respiratory therapy student at Chippewa Valley Technical College’s River Falls campus, Offiah graduated on May 22, marking the culmination of a journey that began long before he entered the classroom. Originally from Nigeria, he moved to the United States in 2016 with a goal
CVTC students receive more than $494K in scholarships
EAU CLAIRE – Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) students received 470 scholarships and microgrants totaling more than $494,000 throughout the 2025-2026 school year. The students and scholarship donors participated in a CVTC Foundation annual Scholarship Awards Reception to honor the students and donors, recently. Scholarships were given to incoming and continuing students and span a majority of the CVTC program areas. Award winners with scholarship names are listed below: From
UW-Stout students among finalists in national Associated Builders and Contractors construction
UW-Stout students among finalists in national Associated Builders and Contractors construction competition Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City project gives glimpse into real world construction management Story Link FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 20. 2026 Menomonie, Wis. – University of Wisconsin-Stout construction management students competed against the nation’s top students during Associated Builders and Contractors’ hallmark annual event, the Construction Management Competition, held this
Not just skin deep
Not just skin deep CVTC’s first aesthetician students prepare to graduate By Alyssa Van Duyse Chippewa Valley Technical College It might sound weird, but Miah Klawiter really likes skin. She’s not the only one. Anna Roder has a thing for skin, too, as well as literally all of their classmates in the first-ever cohort of the Aesthetician – Advanced Practice program at Chippewa Valley Technical College, set to graduate on Thursday, May 21. When that first class began two years ago, they stepped
Distinguished alum, educator Albrecht credits UW-Stout for preparing graduates who ‘step forward’
Student speakers at May 16 ceremonies encourage peers to act with compassion, courage, and to continue learning Story Link Photos attached FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 18, 2026 Menomonie, Wis. – Outstanding and retired educator Bryan Albrecht, a three-time alum at University of Wisconsin-Stout, crossed the commencement stage once again on May 16 – not to receive an additional diploma, but as a guest speaker to address Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University’s Class of 2026. During three
UW-Stout game design programs named among best in Midwest
UW-Stout game design programs named among best in Midwest, nation in new Animation Career Review rankings Parallel B.F.A., B.S. programs produce career-ready grads who create award-winning games Story Link Photos attached FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 14, 2026 Menomonie, Wis. – University of Wisconsin-Stout’s game design programs continue to climb in the rankings among their peers around the nation, rising to No. 6 in the Midwest and No. 17 among all public universities in the United States, according to
UW-Stout Outstanding Student Leaders empower others, bring people together, build relationships
UW-Stout Outstanding Student Leaders empower others, bring people together, build relationships Bender, Lueck also receive Wood Medallion, highest nonacademic honor Story Link FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 19, 2026 Menomonie, Wis. –Alongside more than 100 of their peers, three University of Wisconsin-Stout students were honored as Outstanding Student Leaders of the Year at the annual Leadership Awards on May 6, for their commitment, involvement and service around campus and the Menomonie
CVTC student, Lippert employee turns curiosity into career growth
CVTC student, Lippert employee turns curiosity into career growth By Alyssa Van Duyse Chippewa Valley Technical College At 36, Josh Bowe knows a thing or two about adapting to change. A 2007 graduate of Chippewa Falls Senior High School, Bowe first attended a technical college straight out of high school, graduating in 2009, before beginning a career in the dairy equipment industry. After several years working on large mechanical projects, he joined Lippert, where he has spent the past 13 years
Plugging the Leaks: Financial and Operational Weak Points Menomonie Businesses Should Fix Now
The most common operational and financial weak points in small businesses fall into a few predictable categories: poor cash flow tracking, disorganized records, missed tax obligations, and the trap of doing everything yourself. According to SCORE's 2024 analysis of BLS, SBA, and CB Insights data, the biggest risks to small business survival are poor market fit, cash flow mismanagement, and weak teams — all internal issues that owners can proactively address. For businesses across the Eau Claire–Menomonie
Taking the Mic: Public Speaking as a Business Growth Strategy in Eau Claire-Menomonie
Research published in Harvard Business Review in August 2025, analyzing more than 5,300 investor pitches, found that how founders communicate can shift their funding acceptance rate from 2% to nearly 35% — a 17-fold difference driven entirely by presentation skill. That gap doesn't close at the investor meeting. For business owners in Eau Claire-Menomonie, public speaking is a lever that moves outcomes across every stage of growth: landing partnerships, winning clients, and building the kind of reputation
Building a Stress-Free Tax Routine for Your Small Business
Small business owners in Menomonie juggle operations, customers, and community commitments — and tax season can feel like another full-time job. The good news: a few simple habits can turn a stressful annual scramble into a predictable, well-organized process. Learn below about: How organized records lower your tax-time workload What deductions small businesses often overlook Tools that streamline document handling How to prep efficiently even during busy seasonsOrganizing Financial Records Before
Proven Ways to Navigate Business Challenges in Difficult Periods
Every business faces seasons of uncertainty—sales slump, supply chains falter, or unexpected costs rise. What sets resilient companies apart is not avoiding hardship, but how they respond when it arrives. From building partnerships to managing finances wisely, practical strategies can help you weather storms and position your business for growth once conditions improve. Focus on Financial Clarity The first step to regaining stability is knowing exactly where you stand. Review your cash flow in
Stretch Every Dollar: Creative Ways to Amplify Your Marketing Budget
In a world where advertising dollars seem to evaporate overnight, brands of all sizes are asking the same question: how do you make a tighter marketing budget go the distance? The easy answer is to cut costs—but slashing expenses alone often limits your reach and diminishes long-term value. What’s needed instead is a smarter approach that balances efficiency with ingenuity. This isn’t about doing less; it’s about making what you do count for more. Reimagine Value, Not Just Cost You can only stretch a
How Sharper Warehouse Operations Can Unlock Your Business’s Growth Potential
In the race to scale a business, it’s easy to overlook the hidden engine room where real momentum is built: the warehouse. Too often, warehouse operations are treated as back-end logistics rather than a frontline opportunity for growth. Yet behind every fast-shipping e-commerce giant and every nimble retailer is a warehouse system fine-tuned to balance speed, accuracy, and adaptability. When operations in this vital nerve center are optimized, they create ripple effects that can transform the entire
Outrunning Giants: How Small Businesses Use Agility and Tech to Carve Their Market Edge
It’s not about size anymore. The playing field may not be level, but the rules of the game have changed. Small businesses have found themselves in an unexpected sweet spot, able to adapt faster, personalize harder, and embrace tech tools that used to be exclusive to companies with sprawling campuses and infinite budgets. Competing with corporate titans still requires grit, but the path forward is more accessible than it’s ever been—with the right mix of strategy and savvy. Personalization Is the
Transform Your Event Marketing with Innovative Digital Techniques
Event marketing demands fresh approaches to capture attention and leave lasting impressions. Emerging technologies bring dynamic opportunities to engage participants in meaningful ways. Interactive platforms like virtual and augmented reality create unique experiences that draw people in. Safety-focused innovations, such as touchless systems, enhance convenience without sacrificing interaction. Real-time data insights empower marketers to refine strategies as events unfold.Transforming Event Engagement
Confused About the CTA, BOI and FinCEN? Answers for Business Owners in Menomonie, WI
The Corporate Transparency Act may require certain U.S. companies to disclose beneficial ownership information to FinCEN to combat financial crimes. While a Texas federal district court’s preliminary injunction puts this requirement on hold, many experts expect that to be overturned. In that event, failure to file could lead to fines of $500 per day, up to a maximum of $10,000, and possible criminal penalties. However, filing your Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report will help you avoid fines
Cultivate Financial Awareness with Next-Gen Reporting Practices
Navigating the complexities of financial reporting poses a significant challenge for businesses in a rapidly changing economic environment. Mastering these intricacies is essential for gaining insights that inform decisions and foster growth. With financial accuracy as a vital element of regulatory compliance and strategic planning, efficient processes are increasingly necessary. Implementing effective strategies can simplify financial reporting while improving overall operational effectiveness.Revamp
Elevate Your Hustle: Adobe Tools to Empower Women Entrepreneurs
This Women’s Small Business Month, we’re celebrating the tools that are fueling the success of women entrepreneurs everywhere. Running a business requires balancing countless responsibilities, and Adobe Acrobat is here to help streamline the journey. From simplifying document workflows to enhancing team communication, Acrobat is designed to help entrepreneurs work smarter, not harder. These intuitive tools make day-to-day tasks seamless, allowing business owners to dedicate their time to what truly
Adapting in Adversity: Effective Tactics for Business Continuity in Uncertain Times
Unlock new business opportunities and strengthen community ties by joining the Menomonie Area Chamber & Visitor Center. Gain access to exclusive member benefits, including group insurance plans, networking events, and promotional programs. When a business encounters difficult times, taking decisive and strategic actions is crucial for navigating through the challenges. It begins with a thorough assessment of the current situation to understand the underlying issues affecting the company's performance.
Winning Tactics for Persuasive Pitches and Strategic Marketing
Mastering persuasive sales pitches and winning marketing strategies is essential for business success. From standing out in a crowded market by using AI-created imagery to building trust with testimonials, every strategy plays a crucial role. Learn how to enhance your pitch with visual elements, understand your audience deeply, and tell engaging stories that solve customer problems with this helpful guide.Content with AI-Driven Imagery AI-generated images can elevate your sales pitches and marketing
