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Learn who’s growing, changing, moving and more! Stay on top of what’s new with your neighboring businesses. We share news releases and announcements from your peers in the Madison area. Want to toot your own horn? Use our Submit Member News form to share your own stories.

Photo by Richard Hurd

McClone Insurance Mourns the Passing of Former President and Community Leader Mike McClone

Menasha, WI, February 24, 2025 — It is with deep sadness that McClone Insurance announces the passing of Michael “Mike” McClone, former President and longtime leader of the organization. Mike passed away on February 22, 2025, at the age of 74.

Mike dedicated decades of his life to McClone, leading the company with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to serving others before retiring in 2018. Under his leadership, McClone grew not just in size, but in its cultural foundation—built on the values Mike embodied every day: doing what’s right, working hard, and giving back to the community.

“Even if you never had the chance to meet my dad, you can feel his impact throughout our organization,” said Dustin McClone, current President & CEO. “He believed in leading by example—always choosing to do the right thing, even when it wasn’t the easiest path. His favorite saying, ‘When in doubt, do the right thing. The rest will take care of itself,’ is more than just a quote on our boardroom wall—it’s a principle that continues to guide every decision we make.”

Mike’s passion for serving others led to the creation of McClone MADE (Make a Difference Every Day), a company-wide initiative that commits 10% of earnings back into local communities. “For him, giving wasn’t just about dollars,” added Dustin. “It was about using our time, treasure, and talent to make a positive impact.”

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mike was known for his quiet confidence, sharp wit, and deep love for his family, friends, and community. He is remembered for his signature eye roll, warm smile, and unwavering support for those around him.

Mike’s full obituary can be found here. His funeral Mass will be held on Friday, February 28, 2025, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Menasha, with a visitation on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the Westgor Funeral Home in Neenah.

McClone extends heartfelt gratitude to those who have shared their condolences and stories of Mike’s lasting influence. His legacy will live on through his family, the McClone team, and the countless lives he touched.

For additional information, please contact:

Ashley Rothmann | pr@mcclone.com

About McClone Insurance

McClone Insurance is a leading provider of comprehensive risk management and insurance solutions. With headquarters in Menasha, Wisconsin, and regional offices in Madison, Milwaukee, and Sheboygan, McClone serves clients nationwide. The company offers a wide range of services including business insurance, employee benefits, HR outsourcing, 401(k) solutions, personal insurance, and a private client division. Founded in 1949, McClone’s core values are centered on people, community, and delivering exceptional service. Through its proprietary RiskMAP™ process and the McClone M.A.D.E. program, the company is committed to making a meaningful impact for its clients and communities.

Photo by Richard Hurd

You’re invited to celebrate the Grand Opening of Ether Wellness!

THRIVE TOGETHER: A COMMUNITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION

Join us for a day of connection, exploration, and inspiration as we celebrate the Grand Opening of Ether Wellness! Whether you drop by to tour the space, mingle, or take part in a class or workshop—stay as long as you’d like! We’d love to have you.

Ether Wellness is a new Women’s Health & Fitness Studio located in the heart of Downtown Madison, WI. It’s a space to rebuild strength, restore balance, and reconnect with yourself through strength training, yoga, nutrition, and a supportive community.

• Explore our serene studio with breathtaking Capitol views
• Enjoy complimentary snacks & refreshments
• Join engaging workshops and classes (schedule & details below)
• Discover our women’s holistic wellness services & special grand opening offers
• Browse our thoughtfully curated retail space
• Connect with local health & wellness entrepreneurs
• Take home a Health & Wellness Swag Bag filled with goodies (while supplies last!)
• Enter to win amazing prizes

This is a FREE event to attend! No ticket is required to stop by, explore, and connect, just an RSVP to help us plan. (Some workshops and classes may require registration/fee.) Click here to view more details and RSVP.

Workshop & Class Schedule:
11:15am – 12:15pm “FROM TRIGGERS TO TRANSFORMATIONS: A SELF-INQUIRY WORKSHOP” w/ Ashlee DeHaven (DeHaven Activation)
12:30pm – 1:30pm “SPINAL FLOW TECHNIQUE:UNLOCKING YOUR INNATE HEALING POTENTIAL” w/ Tammy Soderling (Shanti Healing Arts)
1:45pm – 2:45pm “MERIDIAN YOGA” w/ Victoria Andrews (Align Yoga)
3:00pm – 4:00pm “PELVIC FLOOR 101” w/ Dr. Sarah Lindholm (Centered Physical Therapy & Wellness)

We can’t wait to welcome you and thrive together!

Photo by Richard Hurd

UW Health: Opportunity for Businesses to Show Appreciation for Nurses

UW Health partners with Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce to encourage discounts for all community RNs in May 2025

UW Health is proud to partner with the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce to encourage member businesses to consider offering discounts to nurses in our community during National Nurses Week, May 6-12, or throughout the month of May.

Nurses Week poses a unique opportunity for local businesses to show their appreciation for all the highly valued nurses in our community who make a difference in the lives of patients, families and the community every day. This opportunity would allow Chamber member businesses to thank all nurses during this special time.

 “We truly appreciate the generosity of local businesses in supporting nurses during Nurses Week. A special discount not only makes us feel valued but also gives us the chance to explore and support the incredible shops, restaurants, and services that make our community unique. Thank you for considering a small gesture that makes a big impact on both nurses and local businesses alike!” states Karen Schumacher, RN, Chair-Elect of the UW Health Nursing Recognition Council.

If your business is able to offer a discount to nurses from May 6-12 or throughout the month of May, please send your information or questions to: Kristin Scott, MSN, RN, AMB-BC, UW Health Nurses Week Committee Member and Family Medicine RN Supervisor, at kscott4@uwhealth.org by Friday, April 18.  UW Health and partners will share the final list of participating businesses on their respective websites to make all community nurses aware of these local discounts.

We hope you consider this opportunity to show your business’s support of community nurses while enjoying some added exposure for your business among thousands of nurses.

Photo by Richard Hurd

Madison Black Chamber of Commerce: Keynote Speaker Announced for 2025 Black Business Awards

Madison, WI – The Madison Black Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Adonica Randall as the keynote speaker for the 2025 Black Business Awards & Recognition Exhibition, taking place on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at Monona Terrace.

Randall is the President of Abaxent, LLC, a technology solutions firm, and a trailblazer in business development, STEM innovation, and minority entrepreneurship. With over 40 years of experience, she has led initiatives in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and technology, focusing on business growth, process improvement, and expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups. As a board member and mentor, she actively supports economic development, supplier diversity, and workforce advancement—all key themes of this year’s event.

The 2025 Black Business Awards will celebrate the impact of Black-owned businesses in real estate, construction, landscaping, and home improvement, presenting 11 awards to outstanding business leaders shaping the future of our communities.

Date: Thursday, February 20, 2025
Location: Monona Terrace, 1 John Nolen Dr, Madison, WI
Tickets & Event Information: https://bbare25.madisonblackchamber.com/
Ticket Sales Close: Monday, February 17, 2025, at 11:59 PM

Join us for an inspiring evening of recognition, networking, and celebration of Black excellence in business. Secure your tickets before sales close to be part of this unforgettable event!

About the Madison Black Chamber of Commerce: The Madison Black Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting economic empowerment and growth for Black-owned businesses in Madison and surrounding communities. Through initiatives like the Black Business Awards, we celebrate achievements, foster connections, and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. 

For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or ticket purchases, please contact: 
Tiffany Kenney
Director of Communications
Madison Black Chamber of Commerce   
(608) 843-7079 Cell
tiffany@madisonblackchamber.com

Photo by Richard Hurd

Capitol Bank welcomes Ben Kjorlie as new Marketing Specialist

Capitol Bank is excited to announce that Ben Kjorlie has been hired as Marketing Specialist. Ben brings over a decade of digital marketing experience, focusing on content creation, social media, and public relations.

“We are thrilled to have Ben join our team,” said Ami Myrland, President & CFO of Capitol Bank. “His expertise and enthusiasm will bring a new perspective to the look and feel of the Bank. We’re excited to partner on all things marketing , growing the Bank’s brand across every platform.”

In his new role, Ben will be responsible for the Bank’s marketing efforts in print, digital, social media, and more. He will also serve as the primary point of contact for media organizations and continue to expand the Bank’s public presence through a wide range of channels.

Ben enjoys being active outdoors, cheering on Wisconsin sports teams, and spending time with his wife and pet dachshund.

About Capitol Bank: Capitol Bank, locally owned and operated, is committed to serving the communities in which we live, work, and do business. We are proud of the partnerships we have established with organizations, businesses, and individuals in the Greater Madison area. Our philosophy of community support is demonstrated at the corporate level, as well as in the time and energy our employees devote to our community each year. Capitol Bank is Member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender.