Though this issue marks the start of a fresh new year for all of us, I want to take a moment to reflect back on our December cover story on Jim Lindenberg and the Milwaukee Wave. One of the main reasons we decided to devote a cover story to one of Wisconsin’s professional sport teams was due in part to the fact that it is an undervalued gem in our state. But more importantly, it’s now under the guidance of a home-grown, Wisconsin entrepreneur.

And I saw that first hand when I attended a Milwaukee Wave game in December. While some sports team owners prefer to spend their time away from the crowds and in a far away box, that’s not Jim. In fact, I don’t think he sat in the same seat for more than five minutes the entire game.

Why? Because he was leapfrogging from seat to seat, from fan to fan and taking the time to talk to them. That’s the kind of effort that’s going to take the Wave where it needs to go, and it’s something that I think can translate into any industry. He was out there taking that extra lap, making sure he was connecting with the people who support his team.

In fact, when I caught up with him out near the concession stands, he admitted that with a focus on talking to the fans, he often doesn’t get to see much of the game. But he’s definitely got his priorities in order: Happy fans are a critical part of a successful professional sports franchise.

Can you say the same thing about the leaders in your company and the industry you work in? It’s a question to consider.

In somewhat related news, the window is now open to nominate your company for our annual Corporate Citizenship Award program. This annual award is a terrific way to recognize companies statewide that do go that extra mile and who are good corporate citizens.

In the past, companies selected for this award have been recognized for a number of initiatives in a variety of areas, from the environment and community relations to diversity, customer relations and employee relations, but I encourage you not to limit your nominations to those specific areas. Companies that are taking that extra lap in any area are encouraged to apply for this award. More information on the award nomination process can be found at:   http://crwmag.com/page/wccas-wisconsin-corporate-citizenship-awards.

One of the things that I really like about this particular award is that nominated companies are not limited by size or scope. Companies of any size can go that extra mile — or take that extra lap — on a daily basis.

Finally, this month also marks the addition of a new online columnist to our web site. We would like to welcome Kevin Reardon, CFP, president of Brookfield-based Shakespeare Wealth Management. I’m very pleased that Kevin has agreed to be a regular contributor to our Web site as his focus is something that can aid many of Corporate Report Wisconsin’s readers. This month, Kevin’s focus is on the estate plan and what you need to get your house in order. It’s a good way to kick off 2010, don’t you think?

By Laurie Arendt

Laurie Arendt is editor of CRW. She can be reached at crweditor@crwmag.com