Members of the Business Outreach group visited Richland Electric Cooperative (REC)

Recently members of the Business Outreach group visited Richland Electric Cooperative (REC). The group listened intently as Shannon Clark, CEO/General Manager discussed the evolution of the Cooperative over 75 years.

The organization of REC meant that rural homes and farms could "flip" a switch to turn on a light, just like those who lived in the City. As easy as that sounds today, seventy five years ago, there were many hard fought battles to achieve what we take for granted today. The electric cooperative was able to provide electric services to areas that other investor owned utilities did not want to serve. Today REC remains the only non-merged electric cooperative.

The tradition of hard work and perseverance continues today with the Dual Fuel and load management programs that help members save money on their heating and electric bills. New high speed internet technologies are available to REC customers through Wild Blue and Exceed. Thirty five companies, including REC collectively own and manage the Wisconsin Independent Network which has more broadband traffic capacity than any other network in the State. Cable TV is offered through a partnership with the National Rural Telecommunication Cooperative (NRTC). The First Call emergency response phone system supported by REC and the Cooperative Response Center (CRC) allows residents to get help in an emergency by pushing a button worn on their neck or wrist.

REC has received numerous awards for their dedication, service and stewardship over their seventy five years of service.

Pine Valley Healthcare Business Outreach Tour

Pine Valley Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center opened their doors for our most recent Business Outreach Tour. This year they celebrate 134 years at their same picturesque setting in Richland County. On the tour we learned the history and evolution of Pine Valley. Throughout the years they have updated their facility with new space, technology and services to better serve their patients, residents and staff. Their staff consistently strives to maintain the most current information and education on various medical conditions and trends. Pine Valley was recognized as one of the Best Rehabilitation Facilities of 2011 by Rehabilitation Management Magazine. This recognition proves their dedication to offering their patients and residents the best possible care.

Pine Valley Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center is a 104-bed non-profit, skilled nursing facility owned by Richland County. They employ 159 staff members and provide quality inpatient and outpatient care. Their referral radius over the past year has been: Richland County, Sauk County, Vernon County, Dane County, Grant County, along with a couple from Arizona. We are fortunate to have a facility such as Pine Valley in our area. Their excellent reputation for care and services along with their overall impact on the local economy is a welcomed asset to our community.

Ribbon cut for Fitness 14 expansion

A celebration and ribbon cutting was held Friday, February 10, for the expansion of Fitness 14 in The Richland Square. The facility added 1,500 more square feet for a group fitness/personal training room and extra cardio equipment, and is expanding its class offerings. Fitness 14 is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays, and products, equipment and tanning booths are available at all times. Each member has his or her own key fob for entrance and security measures include cameras and an emergency phone. Shown here holding the ribbon are Mary Jo Fortney of the Richland Chamber and Economic Development Alliance and Richland Center Mayor Larry Fowler. Standing next to Mayor Fowler is business owner Bill Toussaint, holding the scissors is fitness trainer and group instructor Luke Berry, and standing at the center of the group of community well-wishers is member Ashley Coleman. Not present for the photo were group instructors Jill Kroetz and Jodi Mieden.