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VPI Breaks Ground on New Community Programs Collective, Expanding Resources and Support for Individuals with Disabilities

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New building for VPI

[Appleton, Wis.] – [October 28, 2024] – VPI is excited to announce the groundbreaking of the new Community Programs Collective, a facility designed to meet the rising demand for inclusive services and serve as a hub for programs that support children, adults, and families with disabilities throughout Northeast Wisconsin. This new facility, opening Spring 2025 at 2350 N. Casaloma Dr. Appleton, brings together VPI’s Early Intervention, Adult Day Services, and Education and Employment Programs, expanding both the scope and quality of services available to individuals with disabilities and their families.

The Community Programs Collective introduces a dedicated Family Support Center, serving as a reliable venue for families to engage with their Birth to Three support team. The Family Support Center will offer a consistent and secure location for services, especially valuable for families without housing or whose homes are not available for visits. It will also function as a versatile area for private counseling sessions, parental workshops, and trainings.

For adults in VPI’s Day Services, new features include sensory rooms, an accessible training kitchen, and an outdoor patio, all designed to foster independence, skill-building, and social engagement. With these enhanced spaces, VPI Day Services will immediately double one-to-one service capacity, and serve more than 100 additional individuals annually, providing a welcoming, accessible environment tailored to diverse needs.

This investment in centralized services will also create operational efficiencies, improve safety and accessibility, and provide development opportunities for staff.

“This new VPI Community Program Collective will allow us the ability to serve more individuals and their families with the services they are in need of in the most efficient and effective way possible,” said Tim Riebau, VPI, Inc President and CEO.

The groundbreaking ceremony is Tuesday, Oct. 29 at 10:30 a.m. at 2350 N. Casaloma Dr. Appleton, WI 54915. Media representatives are invited to attend to interview VPI leaders as they celebrate this milestone.

For more information on how you can support the Community Programs Collective and help us build a brighter future for individuals differing abilities, please visit vpiwi.org/donate.

PHOTO/VISUAL/INTERVIEW OPPS: Photographers and videographers are asked to arrive no later than 10:15 a.m. VPI staff will be available to show you where equipment can be set up and where the event will take place.

For more information, please contact:

Allie Lucht
Marketing & Development Manager
alucht@vpiwi.org
(920) 749-5859

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., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization provides a variety of community programs and services – including education, early intervention, employment, mental health, and social and recreational services, and packaging solutions to the Fox Cities and surrounding areas. By providing efficient contract packaging and production services to private industry with an integrated workforce, VPI has been able to deliver community programing and services to support the changing needs of community members with disabilities or disadvantages.

Domino Customers Celebrate Best-in-class at TLMI Awards Dinner

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At the TLMI Annual Meeting September 29 – October 2, 2024 at the JW Marriott Grande Lakes in Orlando, Florida USA, TLMI Announced this year’s Best-in-Class Winners of their Printing Excellence Awards on the last night of the event at a beautiful Awards Dinner attended by over 400 converter and supplier members.

The TLMI Printing Excellence Awards celebrate the outstanding printing and converting achievements in the North American Label and Packaging Industry. This program creates a visible connection between labels that are produced daily on press and label award-winning submissions. The TLMI Printing Excellence Awards recognize all print processes including digital, flexography, gravure, offset, rotary screen, and multi-process and is open to all converter members. Winners are recognized at TLMI’s Annual Meeting in the Fall and eligible for entry in the World Label Awards.

Of the nine Best-in-Class category winners announced and celebrated on stage, Domino customers brought home three of those Best-in-Class awards! Amherst Label, an Inovar company; ASL Print FX, an AWT Company; and International Label & Printing.

Amherst Label, an Inovar company was awarded Best-in-Class in the category ‘Beverage – Alcoholic’ for the label 13 Below Cold IPA – Baxter Brewing Company. The label was produced on one of their two MPS-Domino hybrid presses. Nye Hornor, President of Amherst Label, accepted the award on stage. In addition to this Best-in-Class award, Amherst Label was also a First-Place winner with two other labels… All Times Sparkling Cider – Citizen Cider in the ‘Beverage – Nonalcoholic’ category, and Gusto – Seven Birches Winery in the category ‘Wine & Spirits – All, including neck label’. In addition, Amherst Label earned Second Place in ‘Wine & Spirits – All, including neck label’ for their label Essential Vermont Hopped Gin – Appalachian Gap Distillery – Switchback Brewing Company. Says Nye Hornor, “The three Domino presses allow us to service our customer with the highest quality product. The Domino difference has made an Amherst Label difference. We appreciate the support and partnership we have had for over 7 plus years.”

ASL Print FX, an AWT Company was awarded Best-in-Class in the category ‘Industrial & Automotive’ for the label East Penn Traveller’s Choice RV Care. The label was produced on their Domino N610i digital UV inkjet label press. Charlie MacLean, president of ASL Print FX, accepted the award on stage and after the event reflected on this special moment. “This TLMI Best-in-Class award truly reflects ASL’s commitment to excellence. From an equipment standpoint, the precision and reliability of our Domino press played a crucial role in achieving this recognition. We look forward to continuing our partnership and pushing the boundaries of label printing together.”

International Label & Printing was awarded Best-in-Class in the category ‘Promotional & Extended Content’ for the label Laconic Foods Orange Blossom Honey. This label was produced on their Nilpeter-Domino hybrid press. Mark Turk, president & CEO of International Label & Printing, accepted the award on stage and later spoke of sincere gratitude. “We are very appreciative of TLMI and its judging team for bestowing this award to us. We are also extremely grateful for the support of the entire Domino team in receiving this honor. Special thanks also go out to our team at International Label and to our customer, Laconic Foods. We are very proud and happy!”

In addition, Domino customers Label King and Macaran, a NextGen Label Group Company, were award winners as well with labels printed on their Domino N610i digital UV inkjet label press.

Label King was awarded First Place in the category of ‘Household – UTC’ for the label Elum Designs Disco Cowgirl Boot; First Place in the category of ‘Wellness, Pharmaceutical, & Nutraceutical’ for the label Grizzly Peak Grateful Dave; First Place in the category of ‘Beverage – Nonalcoholic’ for the label Kavahol Alcohol-Free Kava Spirit; and Second Place in the category ‘Wellness, Pharmaceutical, & Nutraceutical’ for the label Hydropro Chocolate Whey Protein.

Macaran, a NextGen Label Group Company, was awarded Second Place in the category of ‘Food’ with their label SAP JACK.

TLMI’s nine Best-in-Class winners, as well as a group of North American First Place Winners individually selected by the Awards Judges, will go on to compete in the International World Label Awards.

David Ellen, Domino Global Divisional Director – Digital Printing, sums up the TLMI Awards Dinner with the feeling of proud partnership. “It’s wonderful to be part of such an amazing association as TLMI, and witness the profound way they are honoring the label industry and the excellent achievements of converters. And in doing so, it’s exciting to celebrate the tremendous success of our customers. The partnership between Domino and converters goes far beyond providing technology to meet the everyday need to produce beautiful, durable labels for the brands. It’s a relationship built on trust, commitment, and longevity. Watching our customers grow their business, win awards, and celebrate… I could not be prouder.”

Domino is a leading manufacturer and distributor of digital printing and product identification solutions. Celebrating its 46th year in business, Domino is a global organization with world headquarters in the UK, and North American headquarters in Gurnee, IL. Domino has 25 subsidiaries, representation in over 120 countries, and over 3,000 employees worldwide. As of June 2015, Domino is a Brother Group company. For more information on Domino, please visit dominodigitalprinting.com

Hi-Tech Plastics, Inc. – “Stretching” to Exceed Your Expectations!

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Hi-Tech Plastics, Inc. is a proud family-owned business specializing in top-quality cast machine, hand, banding, disposable, and specialty stretch films. Based in Kaukauna, WI, the company’s story began in 1986. In 1999, Bernie Dahlin acquired the business, and in 2020, his son Chip assumed the role of President and CEO. By 2024, Chip’s son Gus had stepped into the role of Vice President and General Manager, continuing the family tradition of leadership.

Hi Tec Plastics building

With over 30 years of expertise, Hi-Tech Plastics has become a trusted name in the stretch film industry. The company offers a wide range of custom solutions, whether it’s incorporating UV inhibitors (UVI) to extend the lifespan of films used outdoors or providing a spectrum of color options to enhance warehouse organization. Their commitment to customer satisfaction shines through in every aspect of their work.

Hi-Tech Plastics stands out from the competition with a stunning selection of 19 colors, available in a variety of gauges, widths, and lengths. Colored stretch film not only aids in warehouse management but also reduces the risk of denied freight claims by making loads easily identifiable when they leave the dock. These films are perfect for enhancing brand identity, increasing security, and protecting products by concealing them and limiting visibility.

At Hi-Tech Plastics, the company’s success is driven by their commitment to teamwork. Their core belief, embodied by the acronym TEAM – Together Everybody Achieves More – is central to their culture. With a dedicated, knowledgeable team, Hi-Tech Plastics consistently delivers quality products while “stretching” to exceed customer expectations.

  • Machine Stretch Film
  • Hand Film
  • Banding Stretch Film
  • color options

Quad Plus: From Exploration to Production

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From Exploration to Production: The Role of Technology in Enhancing Efficiency in the Oil and Gas Sector

Cutting costs, increasing output, and reducing emissions: three goals that all leaders in the oil and gas industry continuously prioritize. Achieving these goals means optimizing processes that are already highly complex, finding sources of inefficiency and loss, and remaining agile in a volatile and disruptive economic climate. Here are a few ways technology is making waves in the oil and gas industry.

Transforming Oil & Gas Exploration

offshore oil rig

Technology-enabled exploration and production techniques allow for the fast expansion of production levels. Digital technology has revolutionized seismic imaging and interpretation, for example, and recent advancements allow ultra-sensitive equipment to collect vast amounts of data.
Geophones are ultra-sensitive sound-emitting devices, and seismologists use them to explore underground formations. This information can be used to make precise maps and 3D images of subsurface structures, making it faster and easier to identify suitable drilling locations.

Precise & Environmentally Friendly Drilling

Measurement while drilling (MWD) technology collects information in real-time that allows the drilling process to be optimized while it is in progress. Increasingly accurate sensors in the drill string measure things like pressure, temperature, and vibration, allowing minor corrections to be made throughout the process for the highest levels of accuracy.

Hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking,” has made drastic advancements in drilling production by providing a way to extract oil and gas resources from previously inaccessible geological locations or areas that were otherwise considered too inefficient to pursue.

Advancements in sensor technology are also being used to monitor environmental conditions and carbon emissions in real-time. This data can be used to identify oil spills and flares or areas where pollutants may be a concern, allowing for fast response times to hazardous conditions. Infrared imaging is also being used to detect gas leaks in real-time.

Pipeline Maintenance & Management

One of the most essential pipeline inspection and maintenance technologies is unmanned devices. Drones take to the air with various surveying devices, such as high-resolution cameras and thermal sensors. Miles of pipeline can be thoroughly inspected without any danger or even inconvenience to human inspectors. It also allows for strategically positioning workers and resources where they are needed for increased efficiency.

Pipeline integrity gauges (PIGs) have been used for decades as cleaning systems for pipelines, and recent innovations have made them even more useful. The attachment of sensors that detect corrosion, cracks, and other defects ensures the pipeline’s integrity, and GPS technology makes it easy to pinpoint areas that need attention.

Advancements in data transmission, management, and processing allow for even more conclusions to be drawn from the vast amounts of data collected. For example, analytics and forecasting software can predict the lifespan of a pipeline segment based on measurements from a PIG device and aerial photos.

Renewable Energy Incorporation

The oil and gas industry may be primarily interested in producing fuel from nonrenewable sources, but operations can use renewable energy sources to improve their sustainability and reduce carbon emissions.

For example, solar, wind, and geothermal energy sources can power operations in remote oil and gas fields, reducing the need for diesel-powered generators on offshore platforms. These energy sources are lower in cost and reduce the industry’s overall emission of greenhouse gases.

The Future of Oil & Gas

Resisting the implementation of digital technologies to improve operations can hinder success in the oil and gas industry. Wide-scale change and the learning curve associated with new processes and practices are frequently at the heart of this resistance.

When new technologies can be integrated with existing systems and upgrades and changes rolled out in a way that makes sense for both management and workers, the benefits of change can be seen more clearly.

Quad Plus puts its industry experience to work every day to integrate new technologies and retrofit equipment in every industry. When you’re ready to maximize the efficiency and productivity of your operations with a price tag that makes sense, contact Jim Woulf at jwoulf@quadplus.com or call (920) 515-4155.

SPL Consulting: Are Team Building and Results Independent Initiatives?

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SPL Consulting, LLC logo

In today’s challenging business climate, there is ongoing pressure to find employees, build a strong team and generate results like lower waste, greater efficiency and increased profitability. Often team building and results are thought of and managed as two separate objectives. Human resource or operations focused. What if there was a proven approach to combine the two and achieve both objectives at the same time? Let me show you how.

What if we shift our focus slightly from the desired outcome or result to the inputs that ultimately drive the outcome? Many of the issues that hold us back from achieving the results we have targeted are hidden in plain “sight”. They often are veiled in the frustrations of our teams coming from circumstances or processes that make it hard for them to do the job we ask of them. What if we took on an initiative to seek feedback from the team on issues they face that cause frustration or lead to feeling overwhelmed? This can set the stage for how we go about achieving results. Let me share a real-life example.

I was recently approached by two clients to facilitate Kaizens on front-end processes. One was focused on reducing errors and the other was focused on creating capacity. As we worked our way through the process, we trained in new tools, observed processes, captured 75-100 issues that were opportunities to improve, worked as a team to generate solutions and created new standardized processes (standard work). Through working together, team members who work in these processes ultimately felt heard. Team members from other departments gained an understanding, and appreciation, for the complexity of other team member’s processes.

As we summarized each event, many participants in the Kaizen shared their thoughts on the process. A number of them are below:

  • “I felt validated that our process was broken and was the real cause for a lot of our issues”
  • “Team members who will utilize the new standard work are doing backflips they’re so excited about how it will improve their work life!”
  • “I knew there would be waste opportunities but was shocked by the amount of opportunities we found!”
  • “It brought us all together as a team”
  • One CEO shared the impact after numerous events, “This was the best team building exercise we have ever done. Employees who never talked to each other before have ongoing relationships now”

As evidenced by feelings shared by participants, their takeaways captured the personal impact on them as a team and as individuals. But let’s not forget the results. These two events resulted in a combined 4,426 hours of capacity created and a reduction of over 96,000 touches! SPL’s approach helped the teams identify front-end process changes that also greatly reduced and even eliminated the potential for errors (Poka-yoke ポカヨケ).

To summarize, Lean Processes properly applied, not only generate bottom line improvement but become one of the best team building and morale-boosting actions you can take for your team. So, let’s put the horse before the cart and hear our team’s needs. When we do this, Team Building and Achieving Results become one in the same.

Brian Van de Water
CEO
SPL Consulting, LLC.
brian@splconsultingllc.com
splconsultingllc.com

Wisconsin Converting Industry Summary 2024-2025

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In late 2024, GBIG has identified 8,194 people employed in the Wisconsin’s pulp and paper manufacturing industries. We have witnessed over the past 30 years Paper Manufacturers shutting down their converting with limited in-house converting capabilities. We have witnessed more independent companies going into Converting! Today, the Paper Manufacturers are subcontracting and providing jumbo mill rolls to independent converting companies and paper distributors.

Projected Growth (2024-2028)

Converting Background

The converting industry in the past was included in the paper industry statistics. The statistics did not recognize non-paper converting segments like films, plastics, corrugated, nonwovens, and other converted products. We are witnessing the high-growth areas are the film and the plastics sectors. Paper converting is still strong with good potential for growth! Converters are frequently contract manufacturers, so it is not known the number of products and brands that are made for large consumer marketers. Private ownership and small businesses add to the unrealized details. The Green Bay Innovation Group has done extensive research and is breaking out the converting sector to better understand Converting and its impact on the Wisconsin Economy!

The Green Bay Innovation Group has put together updated information on the Converting Industry in Wisconsin. We recognize the “Converting Corridor™” from Green Bay to Milwaukee as one of the largest concentrations of Converters in the USA. Our extensive research is proving that the State of Wisconsin has Converters across Wisconsin. We have seen extensive growth in the Racine and Kenosha areas especially over the past 5 years. We have seen tremendous growth in the Madison area, especially in the film and plastics areas. We have seen the development of companies in Northwestern Wisconsin! We have attached a Power Point Presentation, and we continue to update it for 2025! GBIG goal it to better understand the Converting Industry by breaking out each sector to better provide annual revenue and the number of employees!

Our research has identified a much larger number of independent converters in Wisconsin that provide value-added materials – Paper, Film, Plastics, etc.

Without question, Wisconsin leads the nation in the Converting Industries! We understand Wisconsin has many converters who work with substrates including films/plastics, nonwovens, labeling materials, and other non-paper or laminated substrates that are not naturally part of paper and pulp statistics.

Notes, based on The Freedonia Group reporting on labels:

  • Pressure-Sensitive Labels account for about 75% of label market demand and expected to remain the leader for the next few years at least. This market segment will grow to $21 billion in 2025.
  • Heat and shrink labels are expected to expand at an above average pace since the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • Growing popularity of specialized labels, including RFID-enabled and extended content types will propel gains.
  • The promotion of high value and high performing labels such as durable types for automotive, appliance and electronics applications are also affecting growth.
  • Printed labels are factors affected by technology including flexographic, lithographic, and digital.

Flexible Packaging Products include many converting processes:

  • The steps in converted packaging include processes like basic slitting-winding, printing, laminating, coating, pouch-making, and items that protect contents. According to The Freedonia Group, the major suppliers of converted flexible packaging include Amcor, Sealed Air, Berry Global, Printpack, ProAmpac, and Sigma Plastics Group. Plastics and papers are key substrates.

We have defined converting as receiving raw materials on mill rolls and transforming them into value-added or finished products. There are examples of how the converting process may include single or multiple manufacturers.

Of the 261 Wisconsin Companies identified in a recent report, this is the breakdown per category:

  • 16 Carton companies with in-house converting.
  • 69 Independent converting companies.
  • 13 Nonwovens processing companies with converting.
  • 41 Corrugated segment companies with converting.
  • 38 Flexible Packaging companies with converting.
  • 69 Label Printing companies with converting.
  • 13 Paper Mills with converting.

Additionally:

  • Commercial Printer-Converters – 30 estimated
  • Packaging-Converting – 53 Companies
    • Total of All:    344
  • Several companies convert across categories processing a mix of cartons, corrugated, flexible packaging, and labels.

Things to consider: Wisconsin has been known as a rich resource with a lot of innovation and technology.

  1. Wisconsin still is a top papermaking state and retains its reputation as number one.
  2. Wisconsin is a powerhouse in Digital Offset, Flexo, Gravure, Offset, Screen and Wide Format Printing.
  3. Wisconsin has a strong presence in nonwovens, converting wipes and other products.

Wisconsin is no longer a major player supplying printing & writing paper products with exceptions in tissue, towels, and specialty papers. Wisconsin companies are turning to Europe, Asia, Indonesia, and South America.

The converting industry is impacted greatly!

Converters are making choices. They include:

  • Seeking new sources of supply nationally & internationally
  • Changing materials due to short supplies and supply chain issues
  • Realizing price increases due to reduced production of key materials.

Authors: Marty Ochs and Susan Stansbury

Green Bay Innovation Group Supports Trees For Tomorrow’s TFT4All Fundraiser

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Each year, Green Bay Innovation Group (GBIG) partners with Trees For Tomorrow, a Wisconsin nonprofit dedicated to environmental education, by providing a matching donation to their annual fundraiser. This collaboration underscores GBIG’s commitment to sustainability and the community.

As an organization rooted in innovation and development, GBIG understands the importance of investing in future generations’ education about environmental stewardship. Trees For Tomorrow’s programs help youth and adults gain a deeper understanding of forest ecosystems, conservation practices, and the sustainable use of natural resources.

By matching donations, GBIG amplifies the impact of individual contributions, encouraging the community to give more and maximize the resources available to this vital cause. GBIG’s support not only aligns with its sustainability goals but also strengthens the connection between local industry and environmental education.

This partnership with Trees For Tomorrow highlights the company’s dedication to fostering a healthier, more sustainable future for the community and beyond. To match GBIG’s support of environmental education, visit TreesForTomorrow.com and click on the red Donate button.

Trees For Tomorrow’s campus, located in Eagle River, Wisconsin, includes National Forest property under permit from the USDA Forest Service. TFT is an accredited nonprofit environmental center specializing in overnight environmental education programs for K-12 school groups with facilities that include dormitories, a full-service dining hall, and classrooms. Trees for Tomorrow annually serves 14,000 youth and adults with the mission to promote sustainable management of our natural resources through transformative educational experiences.

Read More About Our Work

Keller – Architects/Builders

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Keller Inc. is a leader in cutting-edge design/build services. With On-staff Architects, Interior Designers and Project Managers, Keller is a single point of contact for customers to keep everything on track, on time and in budget. Keller is headquartered in Kaukauna, WI, with offices in Madison, Milwaukee and Wausau. As 100% employee-owned, they are leaders in the construction industry specializing in new construction, remodel, retrofit, and reroof projects. They have the staff and expertise to take projects from the early phases of design through the construction process.

View Our Large Scale Projects Below

  • Bay Industries
    Bay Industries
  • Dielectric Manufacturing
    Dielectric Manufacturing
  • Keller poster
    FoxStar
  • Keller poster
    F-Street
  • Keller poster
    McNeilus Steel, Inc
  • Keller poster
    SD Wheel

    • November 6th, 2024 Newsletter

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    GBIG logo

    Read the November 6th, 2024 Green Bay Innovation Group Newsletter here.

    Read newsletter

    GBIG Events: Discover the Future of Packaging at the 5P Showcase Expo

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    Fox Cities Exhibition Center, Appleton, Wisconsin, February 25-26, 2025

    Hosts: Green Bay Innovation Group (GBIG) and International Dairy Deli Bakery Association (IDDBA). SIGN UP at www.Greenbayinnovationgroup.com/events.

    Focus: Latest advancements in packaging technology: sustainability and high-tech solutions for the food industry

    5P Showcase Expo Banner

    Features:

    • Interactive exhibits and demonstrations: sustainable materials, recyclable films, and advanced printing and converting technologies
    • Education on 2D barcodes and RFID technology for improved tracking, inventory management Networking opportunities with industry leaders and experts through keynote presentations and panel discussions
    • Display of trending packaging products setting new standards in the industry

    Attendees will have the unique opportunity to explore a variety of cutting-edge materials and technologies, including recyclable films, sustainable packaging materials, advanced printing capabilities, and the latest in converting technologies. The expo will feature interactive exhibits and demonstrations, providing an in-depth look at the newest trends and developments in food packaging for retail.

    Showcase Expo
    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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