Great Lakes Roofing Corporation Helps Open Camp Hometown Heroes in Time for Campers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 22, 2023

Contact: Tiff Brennan
(608) 402-6072
tiff@brandhouse.marketing

GLRC Helps Open Camp Hometown Heroes in Time for Campers

Campbellsport, WI – Great Lakes Roofing Corporation (GLRC), a leading provider in commercial and industrial roofing and 2022 Better Business Bureau Torch Award Recipient, served at Camp Hometown Heroes on May 15, 2023, in preparation for the summer camp’s seasonal opening. GLRC’s work honors the families of fallen US military personnel, a cause that is close to their hearts.

Camp Hometown Heroes is a non-profit organization that has been providing a free week-long overnight summer camp for children (aged 7 to 17) of fallen US military personnel for ten years. GLRC celebrates Camp Hometown Heroes’ mission to assist community building among peers, help them process grief, support the healing process, and know they are not alone.

“Many adults shouldering their own grief and new reality find it difficult to also help their kids navigate through. These children, grieving the loss of a parent or sibling, often feel alone in relation to other kids at school. Camp is here to help them realize there is a whole community of kids just like them, but they’re widespread. To achieve Camp’s unique mission, they fly kids in from all over the nation at no cost. This is a mission worth leaning into and supporting any way we can,” said Kris Moran, GLRC Marketing Director.

“We recognize that the loss of a parent is something like no other but the loss of a parent in a tragic and often sudden way is even harder for children to handle and fathom. The Camp Hometown Heroes program is designed to provide recreational programming with an embedded element of trauma-informed support throughout the experience. This includes art therapy, meditation, yoga, effective communicating surrounding grief and so much more. Further, we honor the fallen family members – the service men and women – throughout the week at camp in some very special ways so the kids can fondly remember their loved ones. While there are tears, this is the time in which the campers get to celebrate their loved ones and remember them fondly,” said Liz Braatz, Director of Development, Hometown Heroes, Inc.

Over 85 GLRC staff – from office and production teams – devoted their time cleaning the cabins, fixing roofs, clearing trails, and more, capping off the day with over 30 projects around the camp accomplished in time for the season opener.

“One of the projects that we finished was a rebuild of camp’s outdoor amphitheater seating, President of GLRC, Chris Lampien, recounts. “After removing the old splinter-ridden seats, we leveled all the stones and installed new wooden benches. Finally, we added our logo and signatures to the benches, so in a fun way our whole crew left our mark on camp! It was great to come together as a team to offer tangible support to all future Campers,” says Lampien.

GLRC also brought three pickup trucks full of much needed supplies for the summer camp, which they sourced with the help of their staff, the community, and their generous business partners through a donation drive. Snacks, art supplies and outdoor sporting gear were at the top of Camp’s wish list this year.

“These donated items are so greatly needed and appreciated. Art supplies allow us to conduct our art therapy programming and many of the other donated items, such as sporting gear is costly for our organization. Thanks to your donation, we are able to utilize our resources in other areas, such as flying in the children from other parts of the country to Wisconsin. Every donation to our small organization makes a big difference!” Braatz said.

Volunteering at Camp Hometown Heroes is among the many events that GLRC has planned during 2023 to commemorate its 40th anniversary. Living out their culture of community building, GLRC staff were eager to work together and contribute their time and skills to Camp Hometown Heroes’ mission.

“Everybody was working with smiles on their faces and enjoying the effort that they were putting in. Our office staff worked side-by-side with our production crews and got to know each other personally, which they loved because their daily tasks don’t often overlap. It was not only a great event to support a cause we’re passionate about, but also a great team bonding experience for our employees,” said Moran.

You can help too! Camp Hometown Heroes needs continuous support to carry out their mission. They are currently seeking staff and volunteers to help them run the camp 24 hours a day and fill roles like grief counselors and safety marshals. In addition, they are actively requesting donations and supplies to keep the camp running and fully stocked for their campers.

“Our organization thrives on the kindness of others. Volunteers who cook, clean, can do ground keeping work, laundry and assist in caring for the kids are treasured. Further, we sincerely love the kindness of volunteers who are also veterans. The campers really taking a kinship to those who have served and the veterans also get so much from helping the kids,” said Braatz.

For more information on how to volunteer, please contact Tommy Losch, Camp Program Director at losch@hometownheroes.org or visit camphometownheroes.org.

Headquartered in Germantown, WI, Great Lakes Roofing Corporation (GLRC) is a national award-winning roofing company providing commercial/industrial building owners with the solutions they need to keep their products and people safe. GLRC is celebrating 40 years as a quality roofing contractor that maintains its core values and family culture while providing clients with the safest and best services. GLRC’s mission is to be their clients’ trusted partner and first choice in roofing solutions. Learn more at www.greatlakesroofing.net.

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Rebel Scrum: Scrum Day 2023: Madison’s Premier Agile Conference Celebrates the Power of Teamwork

Madison, Wisconsin – May 30, 2023 – Scrum enthusiasts and Agile practitioners from across the region will gather on September 14, 2023, for Madison’s highly anticipated inaugural Scrum Day conference. The one-day event, held at the Alliant Energy Center, promises to be an immersive experience focused on the theme, “Scrum is a team sport.”

Scrum, the most popular Agile framework in use today, has revolutionized how teams approach complex projects, ranging from IT product development to human resources management. Scrum Day provides an invaluable opportunity for professionals and organizations to deepen their understanding of Scrum principles and techniques, fostering continuous improvement and collaborative success.

“Scrum is a team sport,” emphasizes the core message of this year’s event. The framework’s effectiveness lies in its ability to harness the collective intelligence and effort of the team. Scrum Day 2023 aims to remind attendees of the crucial role teamwork plays in implementing Scrum successfully and delivering outstanding results.

“The event’s theme reflects the essence of Scrum,” said Mary Iqbal, the event organizer. “By showcasing the power of collaboration, we aim to inspire participants to embrace the ‘team sport’ mentality, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence within their organizations.”

Scrum Day 2023 will feature an impressive lineup of renowned speakers, industry experts, and experienced Agile practitioners. Attendees can look forward to engaging keynote presentations, enlightening panel discussions, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities. The conference will provide a platform for knowledge sharing, exchanging best practices, and gaining insights into the latest trends and developments in the Agile and Scrum landscape.

To further enhance the Scrum Day experience, the conference warmly welcomes exhibitors to showcase their businesses and demonstrate support for local businesses while connecting with influential Agile leaders. As an exhibitor, your business will play a vital role in the event, with booth space located right in the main hall. Scheduled time for games and activities that encourage engagement with exhibitors will ensure that your organization remains front and center throughout the conference.

“We believe that exhibitors are a valuable part of Scrum Day, and their presence adds to the overall experience,” said Iqbal. “We invite businesses to join us, connect with our attendees, and showcase their products and services to a highly influential audience.”

Interested exhibitors are encouraged to visit the official conference website at www.ScrumDay.org to sign up and secure their booth space. Early registration is recommended as availability is limited.

Event Details:

Date: September 14, 2023

Venue: Alliant Energy Center

Address: 1919 Alliant Energy Center Way, Madison, WI 53713

About Scrum Day

Scrum Day is an annual conference dedicated to the Agile methodology’s Scrum framework. The event brings together Agile practitioners, industry leaders, and enthusiasts to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and promote continuous improvement. With a focus on teamwork and collaboration, Scrum Day serves as a catalyst for personal and professional growth in the Agile community.

Contact:
Mary Iqbal
Event Organizer, Scrum Day 2023
Phone: 414-687-6279
Email: mary@scrumday.org

WPS Health Insurance® is the No. 1 choice for Medicare supplement insurance in Wisconsin

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
DeAnne Boegli
Vice President of Communications
608-512-5754
deanne.boegli@wpsic.com

WPS Health Insurance^® is the No. 1 choice for Medicare supplement insurance in Wisconsin

MADISON, Wis.—May 25, 2023—With more than 60,000 customers across Wisconsin, WPS Health Insurance has earned the top spot to become the state’s most popular Medicare supplement insurance, according to 2022 enrollment data submitted to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). As the company’s Medicare supplement insurance grows in popularity in 24 other states across the country, it is once again the first choice for people in the insurer’s home state.

“We’ve been selling Medicare supplement insurance in Wisconsin since the Medicare program began in 1966. In this competitive market, being the top-selling company is a huge accomplishment. This wouldn’t be possible without the support and collaboration of our valued business partners and agency allies,” said Thomas Spelsberg, Vice President of Medicare Market Solutions. “It’s also proof that our personal service and the attention we give each customer makes a real difference. Our customers are the best.”

Medicare supplement insurance helps customers pay for costs left over after Medicare pays its share for covered medical services. The plans are available anytime during the year to Wisconsin residents who have Original Medicare or during Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period for those with a Medicare Advantage plan who want to switch to Original Medicare.

Medicare supplement insurance plans from WPS Health Insurance offer a variety of coverage options for Medicare beneficiaries plus special programs and services. Most plans include fitness and wellness programs, and all plans come with vision and hearing programs, with the option to purchase dental coverage.

Enrollment data submitted to NAIC shows UnitedHealth Group previously held the top spot for Medicare supplement insurance in Wisconsin but has now slipped to second place. Third place is currently held by Physicians Mutual Group; CVS Group is fourth; and American Enterprise Mutual Group is fifth.

About WPS Health Insurance

As one of the largest health benefits providers in Wisconsin, Wisconsin Physicians Service Insurance Corporation (WPS Health Insurance) offers a variety of services and coverage with Preferred Provider Organization health plans for individuals and groups, third-party administrator services, and Medicare supplement insurance plans. The company is headquartered in Madison, Wis. Visit wpshealth.com for more information.

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Wisco Barbell Club’s Summer Kickoff Challenge

Our Summer Kickoff Challenge is the perfect way to jumpstart your fitness routine! Join us for 3 HIIT classes a week for 6 weeks and pay HALF OFF the standard price. Better yet, if you attend all 18 classes, you will win 1-month of a Silver Membership. That’s a $350 value for only $99!

Wisco Barbell Club’s HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) classes are strength-based sessions that incorporate pre-set work times followed by shorter rest periods with a different primary focus on a daily basis. You will be building strength and improving your conditioning with these classes.

Co-Owner and Lead Trainer, Dakota Selje, tailors each class to your current fitness level (adapting for any physical limitations) making it an unique experience for everyone training in the same hour-long session. Whether you’re just starting out, or have been training all your life, Dakota adjusts the weight and reps for each person to challenge themselves equally.

“Dakota as a coach helped tremendously to achieve where I wanted to be with my first bodybuilding experience; Not only was he informative, he was straight forward, focused, and honest. He covered dieting and training yet when it came down to a week out he even helped with all the prep.” – Elijah, Current Member

Challenge: $99 for 3 HIIT classes a week for 6 weeks. Get a perfect attendance and win 1 month free of Silver Membership for unlimited HIIT classes.

Rules: Must take HIIT classes 3x a week for 6 weeks (or 18 classes total) to win the free month.

Restrictions: Only 5 spots available per month. Can start the consecutive 6-weeks anytime between June 1st – August 31st. For new Silver Members only. 

How to sign up: Go to wiscobarbell.club/challenge to sign up right away or schedule a tour to view the space.

National Guardian Life: Jennifer Kaset and Judy Olson Promoted to Vice President, Sales and Business Development

Madison, Wis. (May 26, 2023) – National Guardian Life Insurance Company (NGL) is pleased to announce that Jennifer Kaset and Judy Olson have been promoted to Vice President, Sales and Business Development. These promotions will further strengthen strategic partnerships and deepen relationships to enhance sales growth potential in the insurance marketplace.

“Jennifer and Judy have been instrumental in helping NGL continue to grow our sales, drive new opportunities and deepen our relationships with our Marketing Partners. They are knowledgeable and dependable leaders in the insurance industry. I look forward to seeing what they can achieve in their newly expanded roles as they lead their teams,” said Jeremy Ragsdale, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer.

Kaset has nearly 20 years of experience in the insurance industry. She joined NGL in December 2019 as Regional Vice President, Sales, focusing on developing and nurturing Preneed partnerships with NGL’s marketing organizations, independent agents and agencies. She also oversees partners’ service needs as they strive to achieve their marketing goals.

“My passion for the funeral profession aligns with NGL’s core values of integrity, dependability, collaboration, compassion and growth. These values are always top of mind and demonstrated with each interaction. I’m proud to offer valuable products to the funeral homes we serve and to represent one of the best Preneed providers in the industry,” shares Kaset. “I am grateful to work with amazing colleagues and look forward to being a part of NGL’s future growth in Preneed distribution as we grow our market share and value of new business.”

Olson has more than 15 years of experience in the insurance industry. In her new role, se will continue to work with NGL’s Preneed and AssetGuard Marketing Partners to support their growth and business development opportunities. Olson joined NGL in January 2008 and has served in roles including Regional Vice President, Sales; Assistant Vice President and Director of Partner Support at NGL, where she led a team dedicated to supporting key business relationships with NGL’s marketing organizations.

“I’m fortunate to be able to combine my background in both marketing and sales with my dedication to building collaborative relationships, providing excellent customer support, and providing all of our partners with resources for business development,” shared Olson. “NGL has been providing families with valuable insurance coverage for over a century. Reliability, quality and stability are attributes partners and policyholders can expect from NGL. We are dedicated to helping families face life’s financial challenges with confidence, dignity and grace.”

About NGL

Established in 1909 National Guardian Life Insurance Company (NGL) is an insurance company headquartered in Madison, Wis. Licensed to do business in 49 states and the District of Columbia, NGL markets preneed and individual life and annuities, as well as group markets products. Information about NGL can be found at www.nglic.com; Facebook: Facebook.com/NGLIC and LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-guardian-life-insurance-company.

National Guardian Life Insurance Company is not affiliated with The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America a/k/a The Guardian or Guardian Life.

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