We asked this year’s 275’ers for their favorite thing, place or activity that is quintessentially Wisconsin. Perhaps unsurprisingly, nearly 40% of the 126 responses referred to being on a lake or river. Another popular option, appearing in 27% of responses (sometimes in connection to a lake or river) was a reference to being Up North or in Door County. Being at a sporting event, often a Green Bay Packers game, appeared in 24% of responses. References to fish fries, supper clubs, old fashioneds and bars appeared in about 14% of responses. Other references included the state’s kind and friendly culture, the Driftless Region, Madison, Wisconsin Dells, Road America, family farms, fall road trips and polka.
Here’s a look at select responses by category:
Lakes and rivers
“Being out on a lake fishing as the sun comes up. Who cares if I catch fish?”
– Ryan Festerling, president and CEO, QPS Employment Group
“Watching the sunrise over Lake Michigan. I grew up in Sheboygan and got to watch the sunrise every morning. Lake Michigan has more moods than my teenager and every sunrise is different depending on the clouds, the waves and the season. I don’t live on the lake anymore, but I am close enough to walk to Lake Park and see the sunrise often.”
– Vesla Hoeschen, chair, Bemis Manufacturing
“Besides being at a Brewers game, there is nothing quite like being out on the lake. Whether it is an afternoon boat ride or sitting on the dock with family, that is Wisconsin at its best. It is always peaceful, grounding and a great reminder of what makes this state special.”
– Rick Schlesinger, president of business operations, Milwaukee Brewers
Credit: Jeff Bukowski / Shutterstock.com
Sporting events and festivals
“While the outdoors define much of our seasonal rhythm, our shared identity is most profoundly felt during a Packers game. There’s a palpable energy in the air, whether you’re tailgating with friends or watching the game from home. That sense of community and devotion to a team owned by its fans is a truly unique and powerful Wisconsin tradition.”
– Todd Kelsey, president and CEO, Plexus Corp.
“Camp Randall on a sunny, crisp fall afternoon with the Badgers playing another Big Ten team (and a win!).”
– David Krutz, firm managing partner, Michael Best
“Skiing the Birkie.”
– Austin Ramirez, CEO, Husco
Up North and Door County
“Friday night fish fry at the Town Pump in Rhinelander, followed by an evening pontoon ride.”
– Dustin Hinton, president and CEO, Wisconsin and Michigan, UnitedHealthcare
“Door County is my happy place. My husband and I were both born there, and we started dating there in high school. We love spending time there throughout the year.”
– Margaret Kelsey, EVP, general counsel and corporate secretary, WEC Energy Group
“Door County; there’s something about going over the bridge in Sturgeon Bay that strips all of my stress away!”
– David Anderson, group head, U.S. commercial banking, Wisconsin, BMO
“For me, it’s summertime in the Northwoods – specifically the charm of Minocqua. It captures everything I love about Wisconsin: towering pine forests, sparkling lakes that weave through the landscape, and time that slows just enough to breathe.”
– Scott Yauck, founder and CEO, Cobalt Partners
Fish fries and supper clubs
“I love a corner bar where you feel like a local! I’ve never experienced that anywhere I’ve lived outside of Wisconsin, and it is a great part of our culture.”
– Nicole Ryf, president, Kenosha Area Business Alliance
“Watching a Friday night fish fry crowd gather at the local supper club – it is community at its finest. My go-to super club is Joey Gerard’s in Greendale.”
– Christopher Goller, EVP, co-head of corporate banking, PNC Financial Services Group
“A great Wisconsin supper club is something that just can’t be beat. One of my favorites is Schwarz’s Supper Club in St. Anna. The sirloin tips are my favorite … truly the best I’ve ever had! Enjoying those with family and friends is one of the best Wisconsin experiences possible!”
– Shelly Stayer, co-owner and chairwoman, Johnsonville
Other responses
“State Fair creampuffs. I could eat a half-dozen in one sitting.”
– Timothy Stewart, president and managing partner, DeWitt Law Firm
“If you want to spark your spirit while taking in a gorgeous part of Wisconsin, visit the Jesuit Retreat House in Oshkosh. It’s a weekend retreat that will revive, renew and refresh your soul! Trust me.”
– A. David Kriete, president and CEO, Kriete Truck Centers
“The farmers’ markets here are incredible. I’m a transplant from Seattle and always thought we had great produce. The produce in Wisconsin cannot be beat. And, of course, the weekly farmers’ market on the Capitol Square in Madison is truly an experience not to be missed.”
– Sue Anderson, regional president, Wisconsin, SSM Health
Each individual selected for Wisconsin 275 – BizTimes Media’s recognition of the most influential business leaders in the state – is asked to complete a short questionnaire that provides insight into their leadership style and lets readers get to know them a little better. Learn more about Wisconsin 275 and view full profiles at biztimes.com/wisconsin275
