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Swing Big With Gbig Golf Outing Was a Smashing Success

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The Swing Big with GBIG Golf Outing was a smashing success with 217 golfers and 46 Hole Sponsors. We had outstanding weather with excellent networking opportunities for all.

Congratulations to C.G. Bretting Manufacturing Company. The foursome won the tournament for a second year in a row with a score of 54.

The biggest winners are the nonprofit organizations that will benefit from the golf outing. Green Bay Innovation Group raised approximately $41,500 to give to nonprofit organizations. Recipients include:

  • Trees for Tomorrow, an environmental education center founded by the pulp and paper industry
  • Valley Packaging Industries (VPI), an organization offering community programs, packaging solutions, and employment to people with disabilities or disadvantages
  • Apricity, a residential treatment facility for men and women struggling with drug and alcohol addition in the Fox Cities
  • St. John’s Ministries, an organization creating lasting change for those experiencing homelessness or housing instability in the Green Bay area
  • Food pantries, educational programs, and other nonprofit organizations

Amundsen-Davis raised $400 from ticket sales, and we had over $800 from raffle ticket sales. Thanks for your generosity!

Amundsen Davis
Amundsen Davis
Bill and Joan of Packerland Websites
Bill and Joan of Packerland Websites – Hole in One sponsors

We want to thank First Business Bank for co-sponsoring the event and thank all of our Hole Sponsors for their support. We want to thank Steve Van Dyke for organizing the outing, plus Valley Packaging Industries, Apricity, Packerland Websites, and all of the other volunteers.

If you aren’t already a Green Bay Innovation Group sponsor, consider becoming one. The cost is very reasonable, with great benefits. We have close to 200 sponsors! Go to: www.greenbayinnovationgroup.com/events – Sponsorships to register online.

  • American Custom Converting GBIG Sponsors
    American Custom Converting GBIG Sponsors
  • Big Systems GBIG Sponsors
    Big Systems GBIG Sponsors
  • StoraEnso GBIG Sponsors
    StoraEnso GBIG Sponsors
  • Mc Clone Insurance GBIG Sponsors
    Mc Clone Insurance GBIG Sponsors

If you have any questions, contact Marty Ochs, Executive Director, Green Bay Innovation Group
608-698-3333, martinpochs@gmail.com.

GBIG: Swing Big Final Notice Networking 2025

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SWING BIG WITH GBIG GOLF OUTING NETWORKING EVENT STARTING AT 4:00 P.M. on June 19th!

Join GBIG for the FREE NETWORKING EVENT starting at 4:00 p.m. at the Mid Valle Golf Course on June 19th. We have 217 golfers signed up plus 48-hole sponsors and fifty invited guests. If you would like to bring donated items for our raffle, please bring them to the check-in area. The profits from the golfing event will be donated to six outstanding non-profits in Northeastern Wisconsin!

Thank You,

Marty Ochs
Executive Director
Green Bay Innovation Group

Swing Big golf outing with GBIG

June 11th, 2025 Newsletter

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Read the June 11th, 2025 Green Bay Innovation Group Newsletter here.

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GBIG NEWS | 75 Stories and Links on the Internet 06/11/2025

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GBIG News

Get links to the latest news, events, stories, and interviews from our 5P news sponsors. Our goal is to remind the decision-makers in Wisconsin of the importance of our industry both historically, and more importantly, into the future.

Read the latest 75 Stories and Links on the Internet below.

Events

Featured Stories

Packaging

Forest

Paper

Printing

Corrugated

Corrugated Companies

Sponsors

Anderson-Vreeland Hires Kelly Conner as Business Development Manager

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Anderson & Vreeland, Inc. Hires Kelly Conner as a Business Development Manager for Liquid, Thermal, Solvent & Water-Wash Photopolymers.

Irving, TX – Anderson & Vreeland, a privately held company with over 60 years of experience as a leading supplier of printing and packaging supplies and equipment, announces the rehire of former Technical Sales Representative, Kelly Conner, as a Business Development Manager for liquid, thermal, solvent and water-wash photopolymer.

Kelly Conner
Kelly Conner, Business Development Manager for Liquid, Thermal, Solvent & Water-Wash Photopolymers

With over 30 years of experience in the printing and packaging industry, Kelly Conner has built a reputation for delivering technical expertise, strategic sales solutions, and fostering strong client relationships. His career began in flexographic printing, where he advanced from machine operator to leadership roles, refining his skills in troubleshooting, technical sales, and business development. As a Sales Specialist at tesa® tape, Conner managed accounts across seven states, providing hands-on support and driving revenue growth. His leadership roles at Anderson & Vreeland, Flint Group Narrow Web, and Pitman Company further strengthened his ability to optimize sales strategies, streamline operations, and solve problems —particularly in the realm of photopolymer technology, where he has helped clients enhance efficiency and achieve their production goals.

Larry Dingman, Director of the Polymer team, contributed, “Conner thrives at solving customer challenges and empowering teams to maximize operational efficiency. Our customers and internal teams will greatly benefit from his wealth of plate optimization and troubleshooting support”.

In this new position, Conner will work towards strengthening relationships with A&V Account Managers and clienteles, strategizing to uncover new opportunities, and introduce modern solutions, all while backing teams to achieve their objectives. He will cultivate lasting relationships built on being a trusted advisor and facilitate in smooth adoptions of polymer plate technology.

Conner is excited to join the team and looks forward to being a contributing member, bringing his industry knowledge, problem-solving skills, and passion for collaborative success. He has completed advanced training programs through the Flexographic Technical Association (FTA), German Flexographic Technical Association (DFTA), and Fox Valley Technical College, to enhance his skills in process optimization, troubleshooting, and equipment integration. Outside of work, he enjoys photography, cycling, golf, and is considering exploring pickleball as his next hobby.

For more information about Anderson & Vreeland, Inc. and their full platemaking solutions and services, please visit their website at www.andvre.com

Media Contact: Courtney Pazdra, Anderson & Vreeland, Inc., marketing@andvre.com, 866-282-7697

Leader Paper Products Acquires Unique Envelope Corporation, Expanding Its Legacy in Envelope Manufacturing

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Milwaukee, WI – May 28, 2025 — Leader Paper Products, a fourth-generation, family-owned envelope manufacturer and printer based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is proud to announce its acquisition of Unique Envelope Corporation, a Chicago-based custom envelope manufacturer with a strong reputation for quality and craftsmanship. The acquisition marks a strategic move to strengthen Leader’s position in the envelope manufacturing industry and expand its reach into new market segments.
The integration of Unique Envelope’s operations into Leader’s business model ensures continued production excellence and enhanced customer support, while creating opportunities for expanded product offerings and increased efficiency.

Leader Paper Products

“Leader’s acquisition of Unique Envelope strengthens our expertise while exposing a broader and more diverse customer base to Leader’s expanded operational capabilities and exceptional customer service,” said Steve Hipp, President and CEO of Leader Paper Products.

“Our acquisition of Unique Envelope is a celebration of shared values and a natural extension of our commitment to providing customers with top-tier products and responsive service,” said David Wilke, Chairman of Leader Paper Products. “This move not only strengthens our operational capabilities, but it also honors the legacy of two families who have dedicated their lives to paper and envelope craftsmanship.”

This acquisition underscores Leader’s ongoing investment in the future of envelope manufacturing. With facilities in Milwaukee, as well as distribution centers in Dallas, TX and Paulsboro, NJ, Leader Paper Products is well-positioned to support customers nationwide with reliable service and industry-leading solutions.

About Leader Paper Products:

Founded in 1901 by Gustave A. Wilke, Leader Paper Products has evolved over more than a century from designing machinery for paper converting to becoming a national leader in envelope manufacturing and printing. Now under the ownership and leadership of David Wilke, Chairman of the Board, and with active involvement from the fifth generation of the Wilke family, the company continues its long-standing tradition of innovation, customer service, and family values.

About Unique Envelope Corporation:

Unique Envelope Corporation, founded in 1966 by Melvin and Colette Kozbiel, shares similar roots in family ownership and dedication to craftsmanship. Under the leadership of their son, Darrell Kozbiel, the second-generation owner, Unique Envelope continued to build on its strong reputation for producing high-quality custom envelopes. For nearly six decades, the company has served a diverse client base from its Chicago facility, delivering exceptional craftsmanship and personalized service.

Wisconsin is a Leader in Paperboard, Corrugated, and Packaging

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Wisconsin has a high concentration of National, International, and Local Companies in Paperboard, Corrugated, and Packaging. We have seen investments from local companies like Green Bay Packaging, Great Northern, and Menasha leading the way! We have seen a 2.3 cagr growth rate in the industry projected through 2030. However, the tariffs have created great uncertainty in the packaging industry!

Marty Ochs

We are seeing KEY TRENDS in Paperboard Packaging in 2025-2026.

  1. Sustainability has become a standard, and consumers are prioritizing environmentally friendly packaging solutions. Companies are adopting sustainable practices to comply with regulations and consumer preference for their products. However, prices are still a driving factor in consumer purchases!
  2. We will witness mass personalization with individual digital printing and the ability of brands to personalize packaging. We will witness modern designs, new ink color spectrum, foils, embossing, etc. to enhance brand selection.
  3. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI), the internet (loT) and automation in printing, finishing, and bindery will meet the growing demand for high-quality packaging in shorter times!
  4. The Packaging Industry will be equipped with interactive technologies such as QR Codes, NFC, RFID, etc. by becoming a standard feature.
  5. We will witness a clean and functional design trend featuring clear and compelling messages but also cost effective and sustainable aligning with the expectations of environmentally conscious consumers. Keep it Simple, by presenting a noticeably clear message!
  6. To address global challenges such as rising material costs, supply chain delays, companies will focus on strong local partnerships, with US Based Companies.

The paperboard packaging industry stands at the forefront of a revolution fueled by Innovation, sustainability, personalization, and operational efficiencies.

VPI Hosting Third Annual Inclusive Fundraiser, Tossing for Inclusion

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APPLETON, WI – The third annual Tossing for Inclusion fundraiser presented by VPI and Green Bay Innovation Group takes place on Wednesday, Aug. 20, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at GameDay Sports Bar in Appleton. This unique cornhole tournament is more than just a game—it’s a celebration of community, connection, and inclusion.

people tossing bags

Proceeds from the event directly support VPI’s wide range of programs, including workplace readiness, education, employment services, mental health services, early intervention programming, adult day services, and social enrichment opportunities—empowering individuals with disabilities to thrive in their communities.

Tossing for Inclusion brings together individuals of all abilities, including many who directly benefit from VPI’s programs, for an afternoon of fun and impact. The event fosters an environment where everyone—participants, families, local businesses, and community partners— come together as peers to support a shared mission.

“Tossing for Inclusion is fun, competitive, and inclusive, which is perfectly aligned with our mission to create inclusive opportunities that promote independence, connection, and meaningful engagement for individuals with disabilities across the Fox Valley,” said Tim Riebau, VPI, Inc. President and CEO.

Participants of all ages, skill levels, and abilities are encouraged to register. Team registration is $100 and includes lunch, two drink tickets, and an event T-shirt for each player. Spectator tickets are $50 and include the same perks: lunch, two drink tickets, and a T-shirt.

The event is open to the public and free to attend. While T-shirts, lunch, and drink tickets are only available through registration, everyone is welcome to come enjoy the festivities and learn more about VPI’s mission.

To register or learn more, visit vpiwi.org/events.

VPI’s mission is to promote the dignity and worth of individuals who have disabilities or are disadvantaged and to assist them in developing their optimum level of social, vocational, and economic independence in the community.

VPI, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals of all abilities through a wide range of community-based programs and services. Serving the Fox Cities and surrounding areas, VPI offers support in education, early intervention, employment, mental health, social and recreational activities, and packaging solutions. By partnering with private industry to deliver efficient contract packaging and production services through an inclusive workforce, VPI reinvests in programs that meet the evolving needs of people with disabilities or disadvantages—helping them thrive at home, at work, and in the community.

Swing Big Golf Outing is SOLD OUT! Hole in One Sponsorships Still Available!

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Swing Big With Gbig Golf Outing On June 19, 2025, Is Sold Out With 216 Golfers, With Hole Sponsorships Still Available.

Swing Big golf outing with GBIG

Register today for Swing Big with GBIG as a HOLE SPONSOR, a golf outing sponsored by the Green Bay Innovation Group and First Business Bank. We have a FREE networking event starting at 4:00 p.m. If you want to donate a basket or items, we appreciate your donation! We are anticipating over 375 people attending the event!

Swing Big with GBIG is a 4-person scramble on Thursday, June 19, at Mid Vallee Golf Course, 3850 Mid Valley Drive, De Pere, Wisconsin. The golf outing starts at 9:30 a.m. and ends with a FREE NETWORKING event at 4:00 p.m. Join us for a day of golf and camaraderie for a worthy cause. The golf outing raises money to support local food pantries and nonprofit organizations.

Bill and Joan Koehne standing by the hole in one they sponsored in 2024
Bill and Joan at the Packerland Websites sponsored Hole-In-One

In addition to golf, we will have raffles and contests on the course. Try your luck at sinking a hole-in-one to win $10,000 from contest sponsor Packerland Websites.

Swing Big with GBIG offers opportunities to promote your organization by sponsoring a hole ($300) or donating raffle items. Hole sponsors can register at the GBIG Events webpage. Email a high-resolution logo to Steve Van Dyke at Steve@greenbayinnovationgroup.com or Marty Ochs at martinpochs@gmail.com to make signs for you!

Golf Outing Schedule for June 19

  • 8:30 a.m. Registration
  • 9:15 a.m. Instructions
  • 9:30 a.m. Shotgun Start
  • 4 p.m. Awards and socializing

Registration Information

  • Registration includes eighteen holes of golf with cart, two drink tickets, and lunch on the course.
  • Single player: $150
  • Foursome: $600
  • Hole Sponsor: $300

Do not miss out! The registration deadline is May 31 for the June 19 outing. We have room for 216 golfers, and we had a waiting list last year. Let us make this golf outing a tremendous success. GBIG is a 501(C)3 nonprofit organization, and the profit goes right back to the community to support local charities. Sign up today as a golfer or hole sponsor.

For more information, contact Steve Van Dyke at 608-451-2554 or Steve@greenbayinnovationgroup.com or martinpochs@gmail.com or call at 608 698 3333.

May 28th, 2025 Newsletter

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Read the May 28th, 2025 Green Bay Innovation Group Newsletter here.

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Green Bay Innovation Group

Bringing Green Bay Companies Together. Green Bay Innovation Group is committed to building an authentic networking experience where innovation can thrive.

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Phone: 608-698-3333 
martinpochs@gmail.com
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