By April, all mentions of snow and ice — and especially “blizzards” — are unwelcome, even after the mild winter we’ve had. Winter is officially over, and Wisconsinites are more than ready to put it all behind them.
This month’s cover story is the caveat. Associate Editor Kate Bruns profiles the Green Bay Blizzard and the indoor football team’s ascent to stardom despite some major community perception challenges faced by owners Kathy and Larry Treankler when they took ownership of the team in 2013.
“We were hated in the community,” reveals Kathy, who led the team’s transformation from its reputation for alcohol and fight-filled games to the family-friendly franchise it is today.
If you’re a sucker for an underdog plot, turn to page 22 to read more about Green Bay Blizzard.
Insight contributor Nikki Kallio wrote this month’s economic development report highlighting Manitowoc County which, much like the Blizzard, has a history of beating the odds.
Ten years ago, the city of Manitowoc was practically a ghost town, admits Mayor Justin Nickels. Today, Manitowoc is thriving with new businesses opening, existing business expansions and new housing developments underway. In fact, there was so much to report that we had to save some for next month. (Keep an eye out in May for an update on a new Two Rivers trade-focused incubator.) Head to page 19 for the latest on the lakeshore.
In this issue, we also make a very special announcement — the 2024 class of 40 Under 40 award recipients can be found on page 55. Please take a minute to look at the list. There’s a good chance you may know or have worked with one of these incredible young professionals. I invite you to help us celebrate their achievements at an awards event May 29 at The Weidner in Green Bay. It’s truly an inspirational and energy-filled evening you don’t want to miss. Head to insightonbusiness.com/40u40 for more information and to register.
Another event I want to make sure to mention is especially for our manufacturers. Insight’s first Best Places to Work in Manufacturing awards event will be held in November, but the deadline to apply is approaching.
Best Places to Work gives manufacturers an opportunity to receive a full assessment of their workplace benefits and culture, and how those compare against others in our state. The assessment is free and confidential — not to mention a great talent attraction tool. I encourage manufacturers to sign up by May 31 at insightonbusiness.com/bptw.
Happy reading!
