Middleton Chamber of Commerce: Mission: Workforce Alliance Announces Strategic Partnership with Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce

Middleton, WI – 5/15/2024 – Mission Workforce Alliance (MWA) is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce a dedicated initiative aimed at integrating transitioning service members into the local workforce. This collaboration marks a significant commitment to addressing the workforce challenges facing the region while supporting veteran transition into civilian careers.

Mission Workforce Alliance, operated by the Middleton Chamber of Commerce Foundation, connects businesses with highly skilled veterans, offering a rich pool of talent in fields ranging from IT and engineering to project management and finance. With over 200,000 service members transitioning annually, this partnership provides Wisconsin businesses exclusive access to a diverse and capable workforce ready to meet the demands of today’s industries.

David Minor, President + CEO Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce, says “I’m excited to emphasize the importance of programs like Mission: Workforce Alliance and the need for partnerships between chambers across Wisconsin. MWA serves as a vital link between transitioning service members and businesses, allowing us to harness their unique skills for the benefit of our economy.”

MWA’s collaboration with the Eau Claire Chamber not only aims to fill the growing number of vacancies but also supports Wisconsin’s broader economic development strategy. By welcoming veterans into its communities, Wisconsin strengthens its workforce with individuals renowned for their leadership, technical expertise, and dedication.

“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce, marking a significant first step in taking our Mission: Workforce Alliance program statewide. This collaboration not only strengthens our commitment to connecting Wisconsin’s transitioning service members to meaningful careers but also sets a precedent for other communities to join us in this vital initiative,” says Kate Miller, President & CEO, Middleton Chamber of Commerce.

**About Mission Workforce Alliance:**

Mission Workforce Alliance assists in bridging the gap between transitioning service members and the business community, enhancing workforce readiness and economic growth. Through simplified recruitment processes and tailored training programs, MWA ensures that veterans can effectively transition to civilian employment, contributing to the economic vitality of their new communities.

**Contact:**
Kate Miller
President + CEO
888.384.4482
kate@missionworkforcealliance.org

For more information about how to get involved with Mission Workforce Alliance, visit: https://www.missionworkforcealliance.org/).

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Wisconsin Union: Limited-Edition, Badger Red Mini Terrace Chair Celebrates 175th UW–Madison Anniversary

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 14, 2024

Contact Information:
Shauna Breneman, Public Relations and Communications Officer, Wisconsin Union
Email: sbreneman@wisc.edu
Phone: (608) 262-8862

READ RELEASE ONLINE: union.wisc.edu/about/news/175-chair

LIMITED-EDITION, BADGER RED MINI TERRACE CHAIR CELEBRATES 175TH UW–MADISON ANNIVERSARY

MADISON – A limited-edition, Badger Red, mini Terrace chair 175 years in the making — with a sunny lakefront and 175 in its chairback — recently made its debut at Badger Markets at Memorial Union and Union South and in the Online Terrace Store in celebration of the 175th anniversary of the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

The Wisconsin Union team and the UW–Madison Office of Strategic Communication collaborated to create the new mini chair as part of the university’s yearlong anniversary celebration and celebration of the Wisconsin Idea, a belief that UW–Madison’s teaching, research and public service should push beyond the boundaries of campus to improve the lives of all.

Wisconsin-based Wisco Industries crafted and painted the 4-inch-tall chairs. The Wisconsin Union currently has about 1,700 available for purchase. The team does not anticipate producing additional 175th anniversary chairs.

“We’re proud to celebrate the university’s 175th anniversary with this special edition of one of our most beloved icons, the Terrace chair,” said Vice Chancellor for University Relations Charles Hoslet, who led the 175th anniversary celebration for campus. “Purchasing a chair is a great way to join in the celebration with Badgers everywhere.”

Funds raised from the limited-edition chair sales will in part go to the Chancellor’s Annual Fund, which has historically supported the university’s students as well as helped make the Wisconsin Idea possible in many ways, including the providing of student financial support, the recruitment and retention of faculty, and the exploration of new research possibilities. Sales will also support student leadership opportunities as well as free and low-cost events at the Wisconsin Union.

“For more than 110 years, the Wisconsin Union has been part of UW–Madison, striving to expand learning beyond the classroom and to make a difference in the lives of students, faculty, staff, visitors and community members,” said Mark Guthier, associate vice chancellor for Student Affairs and the Wisconsin Union director. “The 175th mini Terrace chair is the perfect opportunity to celebrate our shared history of supporting the Wisconsin Idea, the incredible ways UW–Madison is changing the world, as well as the university’s supporters.”

The Wisconsin Union’s previous limited-edition mini chairs have included a cow-print chair in 2019 supporting the UW School of Veterinary Medicine; a 2020 Earth-themed chair that supported the UW–Madison Green Fund; a 2023 purple and teal chair supporting University Health Services’ Suicide Prevention Fund; and a 2024 multi-hued chair that supports the Multicultural Student Center’s (MSC’s) food insecurity initiatives.

Patrons can currently purchase a limited supply of the 175th mini chairs, the cow-print mini chairs, and the multi-hued MSC chairs in the Wisconsin Union’s Badger Markets at Memorial Union and Union South and the Union’s online store, while supplies last. The Wisconsin Union team sells red, green, yellow and orange mini Terrace chairs and tables as well as full-size white and red Terrace chairs and tables year-round.

The full-size yellow, orange and green Terrace chairs that inspire the Wisconsin Union’s mini Terrace chairs appear at the Union’s lakefront outdoor dining and entertainment destination the Memorial Union Terrace each year for a summer by the lake. Summer by the Lake at the Terrace includes dozens of free and low-cost art events, free concerts, free film showings and low-cost outdoor recreation experiences. Patrons can learn more about Terrace season at TerraceSummer.com.

To learn about the 175th anniversary celebration and UW–Madison, visit 175.wisc.edu.

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About the Wisconsin Union

The non-profit Wisconsin Union strives to enhance and support student leadership and community engagement, including through recreational, cultural, educational and social opportunities and by providing world-class support services, such as in event management. The Wisconsin Union includes student leadership opportunities available through the Wisconsin Union Directorate, the Center for Leadership and Involvement, the Wisconsin Singers, StudentPrint, Fraternity and Sorority Life, and the Wisconsin Homecoming Committee; Memorial Union; Union South; various dining options throughout downtown Madison; the University Club; UW Conferences & Events; and the Fluno Center. Learn more about the Union and its tradition of providing experiences for a lifetime: union.wisc.edu.

About the UW–Madison 175th Anniversary

From 1848 to today, UW–Madison has been home to both dreamers and doers. Badgers are driven by public service, pushing beyond our boundaries and solving society’s largest problems. We call it the Wisconsin Idea. Because this is where an idea can change the world. Learn more: 175.wisc.edu.

Madison Reading Project: Launching Saturday 5/18: Wisconsin’s First All-Accessible Free Book Bus

For Immediate Release

More Information:
Rowan Childs, (608) 347-7970
Rowan@madisonreadingproject.com

1337 Greenway Cross, Suite 186      
Madison, WI 53713
www.madisonreadingproject.com

Launching Saturday 5/18: Wisconsin’s First All-Accessible Free Book Bus 

On Saturday, May 18, Madison Reading Project will roll out the first, all-accessible free book bus in Wisconsin, beginning its journey to bring free literacy programs to children.

Madison Reading Project invites the community to attend the official launch, which will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Kohl Center concourse at the UW-Madison Campus and is free and open to the public.  

Hosted by Wisconsin Athletics, the event will feature tours of both Madison Reading Project book buses and other mobile partners, including Madison School and Community Recreation, local libraries, and meet & greet Bucky Badger! Plus, free books for all children attending!

“Our organization’s first book bus turns five this year and it’s just been an incredible journey to see the growing impact we’ve created,” says Rowan Childs, founder and executive director. “Requests for our mobile services have skyrocketed in the last few years. We have seen and heard the needs of our community and we want to help provide solutions in the most inclusive way possible. 

“We truly hope everyone will join us for Saturday’s celebration, old friends and new,” Childs adds. “It’s crucial that we continuously strive to remove barriers to accessing free books and literacy resources.” 

“We’re so grateful to Junior League of Madison, American Girl, Madison Community Foundation, several corporate donors, local foundations, and individuals who helped our funding campaign.”

 From now until May 31, Junior League is offering a $50K matching grant to help fill the bus with books. To make a matching donation, visit:

https://secure.qgiv.com/for/fillthebuscampaign/event/bookbuspalooza/

“A gift in any amount will help our staff and volunteers reach thousands of children with free books and literacy engagement across the greater Dane County area,” says Emily Wills, Madison Reading Project development director. 

Chartered in 2014 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Madison Reading Project has given more than 500,000 books to children living in nine (9) South Central Wisconsin counties. 

Much of the giving is targeted to under-resourced families and children needing literacy support.

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Deadline Approaching: Apply Now for gALPHA Urban League!

gALPHA Urban League is a no-cost, four-week business accelerator that works with Black entrepreneurs and other entrepreneurs of color from high tech startups to main street small businesses. gALPHA Urban League will provide educational components, mentorship, networking opportunities, and more for entrepreneurs with new ideas as well as for those already in business but looking to expand or enhance their business.

gALPHA Urban League is powered by gener8tor, a nationally ranked entrepreneurial accelerator. We are especially seeking entrepreneurs who are interested in becoming a part of the Black Business Hub community. The program will run from May 20-June 18.

Apply here by May 10

Wisconsin Union: 2024 Terrace Programming – Including Live Music, Movies, Outdoor Recreation Events, Arts Activities – Celebrates Summer by the Lake

MADISON – Summer has almost arrived, and with it, the return of free and low-cost programming on the Memorial Union Terrace — including live music, film screenings, arts opportunities, outdoor recreation and more. 

Bedecked with 2,000 orange, yellow and green sunburst chairs and tables, the Terrace will continue its legacy as Madison’s 40,000-square-foot dining and entertainment destination alongside Lake Mendota. 

New this year, individuals can celebrate the season with the purchase of a limited-edition Summer by the Lake Terrace Bundle, complete with exclusive Terrace-themed merch, a gift card and tickets to top Terrace season events, including a food and beverage tasting. Patrons may purchase bundles online until May 20.

“The Terrace is the place to enjoy all that summer by the lake has to offer,” said Heidi Lang, Wisconsin Union principal student engagement officer. “Whether you’re looking to catch your next new favorite band on our stage, soak in Lake Mendota from the seat of a kayak, enjoy a blockbuster hit under the stars or share a meal with loved ones around a Terrace table, we have it here for you.”

Each week this summer, the UW Credit Union Summer Stage will feature four nights of free live outdoor music performances, as well as Lakeside Cinema outdoor film screenings – all planned and presented by the student-led Wisconsin Union Directorate (WUD) Music and Film Committees. Music performances on the Terrace will begin with Madison-based-band Generation Jones on May 10 at 7 p.m. Weekly film screenings will take place Mondays at 9 p.m., starting with a showing of Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” on June 3.

Terrace seating is available on a first come, first served basis. In the event of inclement weather, the Wisconsin Union team will aim to host music performances and film screenings in der Rathskeller in Memorial Union whenever possible. 

Patrons can explore Lake Mendota and beyond with Outdoor UW’s low-cost paddlecraft rentals – including canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards – and outdoor recreation events, which include family-friendly paddling adventures, guided hikes and more. Rentals open May 10.

The Terrace Art Zone will return May 29, offering a series of free art projects for patrons to enjoy on the Terrace Wednesday through Saturday from 5-8 p.m. Presented by Wheelhouse Studios, the Wisconsin Union’s open-arts studio, project options will include decorated flower pots and gift bags. Handmade works of art and DIY art kits will also be available for purchase at the Terrace Art Cart during select hours starting May 10.

The Wheelhouse team will also host Paintacular, Madison’s largest group paint experience, on Sept. 2. This instructor-led  free event is open on a first come, first served basis.

Patrons will also be able to enjoy multiple on-site dining options at both Memorial Union and the Terrace, including cookout classics from the Brat Stand, pub food from der Rathskeller, frosty treats from the Daily Scoop and pitmaster staples from the BBQ Stand.

On Lakeside Cinema nights, the Brat Stand will be offering $1 hot dogs, chips and sodas starting at 8 p.m. as an exclusive film screening evening deal.

Students ages 16 and older interested in joining the Wisconsin Union team can visit union.wisc.edu/jobs to learn more about available positions.

The Wisconsin Union is a nonprofit organization that does not receive any taxpayer dollars to support its Terrace operations, Terrace season events or year-round patron services, such as its open arts studio and outdoor recreation. Purchases at Wisconsin Union dining options and online store, tax-deductible donations and membership purchases help make Terrace season, Wisconsin Union experiences and student leadership opportunities possible.

            For a complete and up-to-date calendar of Terrace events, visit TerraceSummer.com. The current schedule can be found below.

In addition to Wednesday open mic nights, the Terrace season live music schedule includes:

• May 10: Generation Jones
• May 11: The Mersey Brothers featuring Sean Michael Dargan
• May 16: Echo Rays
• May 17: Frogwater, Dana Perry, After August 
• May 18: Johnny Chimes and the Natch’l Blues Band 
• May 23: Dogtown Hollow 
• May 24: Louka Patenaude, The Cajun Strangers
• May 26: Benan
• May 30: The Cash Box Kings
• May 31: Dusty Road Duo, Ladies Must Swing
• June 1: Mr. Chair
• June 6: Northern Comfort
• June 7: The Emmylous, Pat McCurdy
• June 8: The N’achos
• June 13: Rafe Carlson
• June 14: Stephanie Rearick, The Periodicals
• June 15: Madison Jazz Festival performances, presented by the Wisconsin Union Theater and Arts + Literature Laboratory with sponsorship support from The Capital Times
• June 16: Madison Jazz Festival performances, presented by the Wisconsin Union Theater and Arts + Literature Laboratory with sponsorship support from The Capital Times
• June 20: Annie & the Oakies
• June 21: Caravan, Precarious Towers
• June 27: No Name String Band
• June 28: Los Chechos, Combo Noir
• June 29: Steely Dane
• July 4: Bascom Hill, The Mascot Theory
• July 5: B.J. Fisher, The Who Dat?
• July 6: Rare Element
• July 11: The Material Boys
• July 12: Wise Jennings, PHUN
• July 13: Son del Atlantico
• July 18: The MilBillies, The Whiskey Farm
• July 19: Inside Pocket, Linda & the ZEROs
• July 20: Joy Dragland & Louka Patenaude, The Blue Olives
• July 21: All That Jazz Big Band
• July 25: Cork ‘n Bottle String Band
• July 26: Scott Damgaard, Wristwatch, The German Art Students
• July 27: DJ Nick Nice, Kevin Willmott & Alex White, Panchromatic Steel
• Aug. 1: The Western Flyers
• Aug. 2: Ryan Meisel Quartet, BingBong
• Aug. 3: Novel Folly, STEEZ
• Aug. 4: The DB Orchestra
• Aug. 8: Madison County
• Aug. 9: Ted Hefko, Star 67
• Aug. 10: Son del Atlantico, Latin Pride Orquestra, Rebulú Group
• Aug. 15: Nate Gibson & the Stardazers
• Aug. 16: Tomato Box, Trapper Schoepp
• Aug. 17: Ida Jo, Louie & The Flashbombs
• Aug. 22: They Talk TOO Much, SpareTime Bluegrass
• Aug. 23: Strings to Roam, Brett Newski
• Aug. 24: Grupo Balança, The Handphibians
• Aug. 25: Ready Revolution

This summer’s outdoor film themes and titles include:

• Summer “Camp”!
  • June 3: “Barbie,” PG-13
  • June 10: “Moonrise Kingdom,” PG-13
  • June 17: “The Parent Trap,” PG
  • June 24: “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” R
• Summer Lovin’
  • July 1: “Crazy Rich Asians,” PG-13
  • July 8: “Notting Hill,” PG-13
  • July 15: “The Princess Bride,” PG
  • July 22: “Love & Basketball,” PG-13
  • July 29: “Anyone but You,” R
• Return of the Disas-Terrace
  • Aug. 5: “Jaws,” PG
  • Aug. 12: “Nope,” R
  • Aug. 19: “M3GAN,” PG-13
  • Aug. 26: “Jurassic Park,” PG-13

Outdoor recreation events through Outdoor UW include:

• May 18, June 15, Aug. 4 and 25: Family paddling night on Lake Mendota
• May 24, June 7 and 22, July 27: Picnic Point hike and beverage on the Terrace
• June 1, July 7, Aug. 11: Paddle to Picnic Point
• June 20, July 21, Aug. 17: Stand-up paddleboarding and beverage on the Terrace

Events are subject to change. Visit TerraceSummer.com for more information.