FEBRUARY 2013

PLUS
Spartan Motors CEO Speaks at Economic Club Time to Register for 101st Annual Dinner Rich Howard: Newest Chamber Team Member

FEBRUARY 2013

a Craving for SUCCeSS

Owner, Cravings Gourmet Popcorn & Soda Pop Market

Chad Jordan1

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A Message from The President

The Survey Says: Business Climate improving but More Work needed
A recent poll reveals that business executives statewide and in the Greater Lansing region feel better about the economy than they have in several years. The poll also suggests that business leaders still feel there is much work to be done in order for Michigan to be a top location for business growth. The poll of 3,000 business and non-profit executives was conducted in December by Baker Strategy Group and the CFI Group of Ann Arbor. Overall, satisfaction with the Michigan business climate scored a 62 out of 100 points. Though executives surveyed indicated they felt Michigan is moving forward, they said the state still has a ways to go to be considered a great place and friendly climate to start a business, and to have a strong and vibrant economy. The biggest concerns expressed by executives were healthcare costs, employee benefits costs, and a lack of available skilled labor. Some of the most encouraging news from the survey was that though executives are cautious about the next six months, they are clearly more optimistic when looking out over three years, with the 36-month outlook scoring 72 out of 100 points. The survey breaks out the sentiment among executives by region. Though the overall view of the business climate was in line with the statewide totals, there were interesting contrasts to how Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce members view our overall quality of life compared to the rest of the state. Business and non-profit executives in the Greater Lansing region gave elevated marks to our higher education system (84 out of 100) than other regions of the state. Emergency services (79), hospitals (79) and parks and recreation (76) also scored quite high in the survey. Business leaders in this region also rated the local talent pool slightly higher than other areas of the state (63/61); those relatively weak numbers reinforce the idea that our ability to retain top talent in Michigan must remain an economic development priority. Among the lowest marks given in the survey both statewide and in the Greater Lansing region was in regards to the condition of our infrastructure (60 out of 100). Those numbers should lend greater urgency to legislative consideration of Governor Snyders infrastructure plan in 2013, an issue that will be closely monitored by the government relations team at the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce.

2013 Board of directors

officers
Paula Cunningham
Capitol National Bank

Board Chair PaST Chair

Nancy McKeague
Michigan Health and Hospital Association

Chair eLeCT
Bill Kimble
C2AE

LegaL CoUnSeL
Jeff Hicks
Hicks & Mullett, PLLC

Tim daman
FOCUS President and CEO Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce

TreaSUrer
Jeff Fineis
Andrews Hooper and Pavlik

PreSidenT
Tim Daman
Lansing Regional Chamber

division directors
inTL BUSineSS ServiCeS
Jean Schtokal
Foster, Swift, Collins and Smith, P.C.

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Some of the most encouraging news from the survey was that though executives are cautious about the next six months, they are clearly more optimistic when looking out over three years.

governMenT reLaTionS
Kevin McKinney
McKinney & Associates

MarKeTing & CoMMUniCaTion

Joe Ford
Netvantage Marketing

MeMBerShiP ServiCeS
Deb Muchmore
Marketing Resource Group

at-Large
Farm Bureau Insurance

Dave Baker

Accident Fund Holdings McLaren Greater Lansing

Steve Reynolds Patrick Salow

Fifth Third Bank PNC Bank

Melanie Bergeron
Two Men & A Truck Michigan State University

Mark Burnham Leslie Brogan

Comcast Jackson National Life Insurance

Jason Sanders Tim Salisbury Heather Shawa-DeCook

Demmer Corporation Common Wealth Enterprises

John Brown Stella Cash

Sparrow Health System

Tom Stewart Bob Trezise

LEAP, Inc.

Shelly Davis-Mielock
Mieshel Image Consulting Dean Transportation Conquest Fitness and Health

Patrick Dean

Spartan Internet Consulting Auto-Owners Insurance

Ryan Vartoogian Bill Woodbury

Andre Hutson Dave Mulder

Meijer, Inc.

adverTiSerS
Accident Fund ........................................9 Blue Cross Blue Shield ...........................5 C2AE ....................................................14 Flagstar Bank ..........................................7 M3 Group .............................................15 McLaren ................................................11 Mercantile Bank................................... BC MSUFCU .................................................4 WKAR ...................................................10

For more information or to review the comparable report on the Michigan Overall Topline Results, please visit www.michigan2013.com The overall economic picture is improving. It is my hope this survey will serve as an action plan blueprint to help our state further improve its business climate.

Focus
Ross Woodstock

ediTor

deSign & PrinTing

Spartan Printing, Inc. Hot Prospects Direct Trumpie Photography

MaiLing

Cover PhoTo

News & events

LanSing regionaL ChaMBer of CoMMerCe 101ST annUaL dinner
Thursday, February 28, 2013 Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center Early Bird Pricing (until Feb 8): $85/member ticket, $630/table of eight After February 8: $100/member ticket, $800/table of eight $140/non-member ticket registration: www.lansingchamber.org Contact: Jennifer Wagemann, Manager, Events & Programming jwagemann@lansingchamber.org, 517.853.6456 Sponsorships Still available!
WedneSday, feBrUary 6 Delta Government relations Committee,
8 9 a.m. Delta Township District Library, Davenport Drive, Lansing, MI 48917. The Delta Government Relations Committee meets the first Wednesday of each month to provide a forum for business leaders to discuss important issues affecting Delta Township. To ensure adequate seating, please RSVP to Jason Green at jgreen@lansingchamber.org. from the Chambers incoming board Chair, honors the outgoing Chair and board members, and is followed by the presentation of the Community Service, Outstanding Small Business and Legacy Awards. This is also an opportunity to reflect on the past years Ten Over the Next Ten, Celebration of Regional Growth and ATHENAPowerlink and ATHENA recipients. Early Bird pricing (through Februaruy 8) is $85/ member ticket or $630/table of 8. After February 8, the cost of the event will be $100/member ticket or $800/ table of eight. Non-member pricing is $140. To register or for additional information about sponsorships, please visit www.lansingchamber.org. programs, member exposure, networking and educational event opportunities. This is a FREE event, but space is limited. To register for this event, please contact Jennifer Wagemann at 517-853-6456 or jwagemann@lansingchamber.org.

ThUrSday, MarCh 7 Cbre real estate upDate, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Kellogg
Hotel and Conference Center, 219 S. Harrison Road, East Lansing, MI 48824. Join representatives from CBRE, the global leader in commercial real estate services, as they present Lansing ViewPoint: Trends in Commercial Real Estate. CBRE will examine how the local and national commercial real estate markets are performing today and discuss what landlords, tenants and investors can anticipate for the future of the Greater Lansing area. $35/members and $45/ non-members. Registration can be completed at ww.lansingchamber.org.

TUeSday, MarCh 19 leGislative Dinner, 5:30 8 p.m., Lexington Lansing Hotel,

925 S. Creyts Rd., Lansing MI, 48917. The Lansing Regional Chambers Legislative Dinner unites Michigans local Chambers and their key business leaders with legislators and state Chamber officials for an evening of networking and spirited discussion. Admission to this event is separate from the Michigan Chamber Legislative Summit. Tickets: $85/single ticket or $630/table of eight. To register or for sponsorship information, contact Michelle Rahl at 517-853-6457 or mrahl@lansingchamber.org.

TUeSday, feBrUary 12 member mixer,

5 - 7 p.m., Old Town Marquee. 319 E. Grand River Avenue, Lansing, MI 48906, located between the Unicorn Bar and Aggie Maes Bakery in Old Town. Parking is next to the Chrome Cat across the street. $10 member, $30 non-member. Includes hors doeuvres.

WedneSday, MarCh 6 Delta Government relations Committee,

8 9 a.m. Lexington Lansing Hotel, 925 S. Creyts Rd., Lansing, MI 48917. The Delta Government Relations Committee meets the first Wednesday of each month to provide a forum for business leaders to discuss important issues affecting Delta Township. To ensure adequate seating, please RSVP to Jason Green at jgreen@lansingchamber.org.

TUeSday, feBrUary 19 eConomiC Club, 11:30 a.m. 1:30 p.m., Kellogg Hotel &
Conference Center, East Lansing. Speaker: George Zimmermann, vice president, Travel Michigan. Program begins at noon; please arrive early for registration & networking. Single tickets $40, or tables of 8 $300 (includes lunch). Pre-registration is required. To register for this event, please visit www. lansingchamber.org.

TUeSday, MarCh 26 eConomiC Club,

11:30 a.m. 1:30 p.m., Lexington Lansing Hotel, 925 S. Creyts Rd., Lansing MI, 48917 (LOCATION CHANGE). Speaker: Patrick J. Kennedy, former U.S. Representative and national mental health activist. Sponsored by Capitol National Bank and The Hope Network. Program begins at noon; please arrive early for registration & networking. Single tickets $40, or tables of eight $300 (includes lunch). Pre-registration is required. To register for this event please visit www. lansingchamber.org.

ThUrSday, MarCh 7 Chamber 360,

8 9:30 a.m., Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Insurance Capital Board Room, 500 E. Michigan Ave., Ste. 200, Lansing, MI 48912. New, veteran and prospective members are encouraged to attend Chamber 360 to learn about the full range of Chamber benefits and how to maximize your investment. Meet our staff and find out how we are working for you through business growth and advocacy initiatives, exclusive member benefit

ThUrSday, feBrUary 28 101st annual Dinner, 5:30 8:30 p.m. Kellogg Hotel
and Conference Center, 219 S. Harrison Road, East Lansing, MI 48824. With 800+ attendees, the Annual Dinner is the regions premiere business celebration and networking event. This program includes remarks

evenT CoST iS CoMPLiMenTary for TheSe enhanCed MeMBerShiP LeveLS:

Bronze

Gold

Silver

Platinum

FEBRUARY 2013

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TUeSday, MarCh 12 member mixer, 5 7 p.m., TBD. $10 member, $30 non-member. Includes hors doeuvres.

Welcome new Members

arTeMiS TeChnoLogieS, inC.
2501 Coolidge Rd., Ste. 503 East Lansing, MI 48823 Phone: (517) 336-9915 artemis-solutions.com

CreeKWood aParTMenTS
P.O. Box 305 Holt, MI 48842 Phone: (517) 202-3606

LafonTaine ford of LanSing

5103 S. Cedar St. Lansing, MI 48911 Phone: (248) 705-3255 Fax: (517) 882-5396 thefamilydeal.com

please remember to use the member login portion of the Chamber website to keep your contact information up-to-date. this will ensure that you receive all Chamber communications in a timely manner. Contact us at 517.487.6340 if you have any questions or are not receiving our communications.

Thank You renewing Members

A-1 Rent-All Stop Country Stitches Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa Davenport University Dean Transportation, Inc. Delta Side Business Association Diversified National Title Agency Douglas Steel Company Great Lakes Christian College Great Lakes Express Service, Inc. Hayes Green Beach Memorial Hospital Hyundai of Lansing Ingham County Economic Dev. Corp.

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A. Dean Watkins - East, Inc. A.J. Boggs & Company, Inc. ACE Cleaning & Restoration Air Handling Equipment Co., Inc. AP Cleaning Company Blue Care Network of Michigan Boji Group Capital Honda Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood Consumers Energy Cornerstone Wealth Partners

Jackson National Life Insurance Co. Jimmys Pub KW Corporation Inc. Lansing, City of Magnesium Products of America, Inc. Michigan State University Foundation Modernistic Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Mortons Fine Catering Mount Hope Church Sams Club Siena Heights University Stokosa Prosthetic Clinic T.L. Hart, Inc. The Green Door Blues Bar & Grill

The Only Business Card You Need to Carry

Whether youre traveling across the country or around the world, the MSUFCU Platinum Resource Visa Credit Card* is accepted virtually everywhere. MSUFCU Visa cardholders enjoy: Credit limits up to $50,000 No application or annual fees Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver $1,000,000 Travel-Accident Insurance Emergency card replacement Emergency cash disbursement Travel with confidence when you carry the MSUFCU Platinum Resource Visa Credit Card. Apply today.

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FEBRUARy 2013

Chamber Milestones
Wed like to offer a special salute to these great organizations that reached milestone anniversaries as Chamber members this month. Thank you for your continued support through the years!

ConSUMerS energy
74 years

inghaM CoUnTy eConoMiC deveLoPMenT CorP. 30 years

Federally insured by the NCUA

517-333-2365 800-678-4968 www.msufcu.org/business

a. dean WaTKinS-eaST, inC.

57 years

greaT LaKeS exPreSS ServiCe, inC.

20 years

dean TranSPorTaTion, inC.

35 years

diverSified naTionaL TiTLe agenCy

5 years

Branch Locations East Lansing 3777 West Rd. 4825 E. Mt. Hope Rd. 523 E. Grand River Ave. MSU Union, 49 Abbot Rd., Rm. 108 Lansing 104 S. Washington Sq. 653 Migaldi Ln. 200 E. Jolly Rd. Haslett 16861 Marsh Rd. Okemos 1775 Central Park Dr. Auburn Hills 3265 Five Points Dr.
*Platinum Resource Visa Credit Card currently available to Michigan-based businesses only.

Government relations

gr w
a healthy work force.
Sustainable health care solutions for your small business

State representative Tom Leonard Joins Local Legislative delegation

getting adjusted to his new schedule, but he is excited and ready to get to work. His number one focus will primarily be on how to continue to create more jobs and improve Michigans economy. He understands that while there is no silver bullet answer, Michigan is uniquely positioned to improve economically during his first term and he is eager to be a part of the process. He will also keep a close eye on regulatory reform, vocational training for a skilled workforce, and public safety an interest that was well-honed as a former assistant Attorney General. Leonard will also serve as vice chair of the bi-partisan Capitol Caucus, and he indicated that there is a great deal of excitement among the new legislators to address issues and opportunities for mid-Michigan. The Capitol Caucus is tentatively planning to meet by the end of January. Representative Leonards staff is getting adjusted as well with Phil Goodrich serving as legislative director; Larry Fouts in constituent relations; and Nick Roberts (intern) rounding out his team.

Your Chamber Exclusively Endorses

New State Representative Tom Leonard (R-District 93-DeWitt) is settling into his office and getting right down to business at the State Capitol. The Majority Caucus vice chair says its been a whirlwind

Learn more today.

Contact the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce at 1-517-487-6340 or visit mibenefitadvisor.com/lansingchamber.

2013 Legislative dinner Set for March 19

Panelists at the 2012 Legislative Dinner answered a wide range of questions. L-R: House Majority Floor Leader Jim Stamas; Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville; Bill Rustem, Director of Strategy for Gov. Snyder; and Dennis Muchmore, Chief of Staff for Gov. Snyder.

The 2013 Chambers of Commerce Legislative Dinner is expected to draw another large crowd of Chamber officials from around Michigan who will be interested to hear how state lawmakers and officials from Governor Snyders administration view the status of key policy initiatives this year. The Legislative Dinner, sponsored by the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, will be held from 5:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 19 at the Lexington Lansing Hotel. The Legislative Dinner has been a forum for state lawmakers and administration officials to discuss leading state issues with representatives of the Michigan business community and Chamber officials. In 2012, panelists included Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville, House Majority Floor Leader Jim Stamas, Bill Rustem, Governor Snyders Director of Strategy, and Dennis Muchmore, Chief of Staff for Governor Snyder. The 2013 Legislative Dinner begins with a reception at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner and the guest panel. Tickets are $85/single ticket or $630/table of eight. Reservations can be made by contacting Michelle Rahl at mrahl@ lansingchamber.org or 517-853-6457.

bcbsm.com/grow
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
R011752

R011752_FOCUSAd.indd 1

12/11/12 4:52 PM

FEBRUARY 2013

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Kristin Beltzer (LRCC), State Representative Tom Leonard

Economic Club

Travel Michigan executive to Keynote the february economic Club Luncheon

George Zimmermannn of Travel Michigan will be the featured speaker at the Tuesday, February 19 Economic Club luncheon. The Economic Club luncheon will be held from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the Michigan State University Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center. George Zimmermann takes this view of his position as vice president of Travel Michigan: My job is to increase spending in Michigan and if what we are doing does not do that, then we should stop doing it. By all accounts, Zimmermannn and Travel Michigan are doing an outstanding job in building and promoting Michigans powerful tourism industry. George Zimmermann During his Economic Club appearance, Zimmermann will discuss the Pure Michigan brand and the status of the campaign today, including its expansion to include economic development and business initiatives including Pure Michigan Business Connect and Pure Michigan Talent Connect. The February Economic Club luncheon is sponsored by Rehmann. Tickets are $40/individual ticket or $300/table of eight. Tickets can be purchased at www.lansingchamber.org. For any questions, please contact Jennifer Wagemann, manager of events and programming, at 517.853.6456 or jwagemann@lansingchamber.org.

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During his tenure at Travel Michigan, Zimmermann helped launch the Pure Michigan branding campaign, which has continued to earn national recognition.

The Chambers Economic Club is dedicated to promoting and stimulating economic growth through timely and insightful forums presented for personal and professional development.

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Spartan Motors Ceo: great Leadership ensures excellence

Leadership ensures excellence and excellence always attracts, whether its in each of us as individuals, in our organizations or prevalent throughout the community. That was the message delivered by Spartan Motors President and CEO John Sztykiel to the crowd of 320 at the January Economic Club Luncheon. We have 1,700 associates across the country and each one of them is a leader, said Sztykiel. We have people that are passionately committed to leadership. Spartan Motors, Inc. designs, engineers and manufactures specialty chassis, specialty vehicles, truck bodies and aftermarket parts for the recreational, emergency response, government services, defense and service vehicle markets. Sztykiel cited nine qualities that are necessary for great leadership: vision, strategy, focus, alignment, differentiation, speed, passion, perseverance and excellence. Leadership skills were severely tested at Spartan Motors in 2008 when the combination of decline in government contracts and the national recession caused the company to realize they had to transform their business. 80 percent of our business was government related, and we knew we had to transform the organization, said Sztykiel. One of the core reasons businesses dont evolve is that its leaders dont evolve.

Spartan Motors President and CEO told the January Economic Club, Dreams become vision and that vision becomes your reality through great leadership.

Spartan forged new relationships and moved into new markets as a result of their transformational process of the past few years. Spartan reported sales of $426 million in 2011, and is focused on sustaining their position as a global leader in the design, engineering and manufacture of specialty vehicles and chassis.

Membership Services

Local matters.
But, you already knew that.

We like this state. No, we love this state. Its who we are. Its what drives us. We also like proving that a bank from right here is better for your business. Not always an easy task. There isnt a mold, only a model work harder. Because local matters today and tomorrow. Thanks for letting us prove it. Personal Mortgage Business Commercial

Partner with us today. (888) 324-4100 flagstar.com/business Like us on

Member FDIC

FEBRUARY 2013

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FEBRUARy 2013

a Craving for Success

Benjamin Franklin was credited with the saying, Out of adversity comes opportunity. For Chad Jordan, the adversity started in 2004 when he lost his job. In many ways, it was a blessing in disguise because it was a job that Chad didnt care for all that much. I hated the way it felt, said Jordan. I hated the fact that someone else was in control of my future. The very day he was terminated, Chad began developing a business plan, which at the time he considered only as a back-up strategy (I knew I needed a job). Three years later, Chad started a business selling specialty popcorn. Today, Cravings Gourmet Popcorn & Soda Pop Market produces and sells 16 flavors of popcorn and 150-200 varieties of bottled soda pop from its operation in Lansings Old Town. To better understand how he managed to turn adversity into opportunity, it is helpful to know Jordans background. Chad has spent 36 of his 40 years in Lansing. He enjoyed a 16-year career in retail, starting as a 16-year old at Goff Supermarket in East Lansing. Chad went on to work at Sams Club and Kroger, where he was responsible for hiring the management staff for all Kroger stores in Michigan. Along the way, Chad discovered his passion for marketing and advertising. In trying to develop an idea for a business, Chad figured it made sense to combine what he knew and what he loved. His expertise was in retail. He had fond childhood memories of fresh popcorn that was usually made on a stove. The kernel of an idea for Cravings Popcorn came following a visit to another popcorn store in Michigan. There was a small problem in getting started and its called having no money. In struggling to figure out how to get his venture started, Chad became friends with a couple that had a kettle corn business at the Lansing City Market. Chad purchased the couples equipment for $5,000 and in 2007, his dream was well on its way to becoming a reality.

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Cravings employee Matt Strickling gets prepared for another busy day at the Old Town establishment.

Like all start-up entrepreneurs, Chad had a few lessons to learn along the way. Customers told him his original offering of 30-40 flavors were too much. He whittled his product line down to three flavors. Steadily, the business developed a following and in 2010 with just $6,500, Chad opened his new store on Turner Street in Old Town. Of all the various flavors, caramel popcorn (four varieties) and cheddar cheese popcorn (five varieties) remain the best sellers. The idea to offer glassbottle soda pop was to lend to the notion that the Cravings experience is one for all ages. The majority of the soda pop at Cravings is made with cane sugar as opposed to fructose syrup.

Project, through which the company donates popcorn to various community projects during the course of the year. Chad also uses Twitter and YouTube, where he produces what he calls fun videos that showcase the Cravings brand and gives the business a personality. Cravings Popcorn has grown steadily, experiencing sales growth of over 2000 percent in the past four years. Chad attributes much of the success to his six employees, who he says have considerable input into how the business is run. Without great employees we would not be successful, says Jordan. I treat them like family. Chad also attributes much of his success to his family, including his wife of 16 years, Rebecca, and sons Connor, 15 and Brock, 12. Expansion is very much on Chad Jordans mind. He hopes to open a second store in 2013 in either Okemos or the west side of Lansing. He also plans to begin offering franchising opportunities in 2014-2015.

Chad Jordan, owner of Cravings Gourmet Popcorn & Soda Pop Market.

We wanted to make something unique, said Jordan. Its something special a parent can enjoy with their kids.

To help grow his business, Chad turned to the marketing and advertising experience he learned during his retail career. He had to deal with the stark reality of building a business on a very small budget. Chad developed a dynamic social media program that has engaged customers in every facet of his business. My goal was to build a community around a brand, said Jordan. If a customer is involved in the development of a business, they will be more likely to support that business. Chad uses Facebook to get new ideas for promotions and products and to get feedback on customer service and other operational issues. A recent Facebook suggestion from a customer regarding the current bacon phenomenon resulted in a maple caramel popcorn with hickory smoked bacon. If people are talking about it, we feel we should give them what they are interested in, says Jordan. Chads business also has a separate Facebook page, Cravings Community Popcorn

run your own race. Dont worry about what the others are doing. Worry about being the best at what you do.
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Successful people always seem to figure out how to take the lessons they have learned in life and work them to their advantage. For Chad Jordan, the advice he offers others from his lessons learned include having a good plan and being passionate about what youre is doing. Do something you love and something in which you feel you can be an expert, says Jordan. Chad encourages budding entrepreneurs to work on being the best at whatever they choose to do. Run your own race, says Jordan. Dont worry about what the others are doing. Worry about being the best at what you do. Follow that advice and Chad Jordan bets you wont be left craving success.

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FEBRUARY 2013

The WorkSafe People

Membership Services

register Today for the 101st Lansing regional Chamber of Commerce annual dinner
Its not too late to register for the Greater Lansing regions premier business celebration and networking event of the year - the 101st Annual Dinner of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC). This years Annual Dinner will be held from 5:15 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 28 at the Michigan State University Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center. Dinner offers an opportunity to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of the Greater Lansing business community. The program will honor the outgoing LRCC chair and board members, includes remarks from the incoming board chair, Paula Cunningham, and includes the presentation of the Community Service, Outstanding Small Business and Legacy Awards. We will also take time to recognize the 2012 10 Over the Next Ten recipients, Celebration of Regional Growth honorees, as well as the ATHENA and ATHENAPowerlink recipients. Early bird pricing for the Annual Dinner is available until February 8 at the rate of $85 for individual tickets and $630 for a table of eight. Regular pricing (after February 8) is $100 for an individual ticket and $800 for a table of eight. Non-member pricing is $140. Registration can be completed at www. lansingchamber.org. The Annual Dinner also represents a premier marketing opportunity for organizations interested in making those crucial business-to-business connections. Sponsorship information can be obtained from Jennifer Wagemann at jwagemman@lansingchamber.org or 517.853.6456. Many thanks to those sponsors already supporting the LRCC Annual Dinner, including: Sparrow Health System Two Men and a Truck

SiLver SPonSorS
Emergent BioSolutions Loomis, Ewert, Parsley, Davis & Gotting Fraser, Trebilcock, Davis & Dunlap, P.C. WKAR

Bronze SPonSorS
Capitol National Bank Fifth Third Bank Huntington Bank

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SMaLL BUSineSS SPonSor

Warner Norcross & Judd, LLP

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FEBRUARy 2013

With 800+ attendees, the Annual Dinner has long remained a mustattend program in the business community. In addition to connecting with business leaders, the Annual

goLd SPonSorS
Auto-Owners Insurance

Band SPonSor
LAFCU

Member Testimonial
One of our newest members was kind enough to share his impressions about the importance of membership in the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. Joining the Chamber is one of the finest things I could have done for my business; the small investment that I made has already paid for itself after only a short amount of time. I challenge the reader to show us another organization which has such a high level of respect, and can enhance your business with the benefits of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. For me to say that the Chamber is just another association would do it injustice. I attended my first member mixer and I must say that it was a watershed event. I met so many great professionals which I am confident will assist or have an impact in catapulting my business into the future. The Chamber has so many resources that I arrived with 25 of my business cards, and within the first hour they were all given to prospective clients, friends, and fellow business people in Lansing. Christopher Harris CEO, Harris Applied Research

Membership Services

rich howard Joins Lansing regional Chamber as vice President of Business development

Caring for our community

At McLaren Greater Lansing, we are honored to provide our community exceptional health care across many areas:
State-of-the-art cardiovascular care featuring a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Cardiac Center of Excellence, as well as expert care from the physicians of McLaren Cardiovascular Group and McLaren Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgeons Minimally invasive and robotic surgeries offering patients shorter hospital stays, less pain and scarring, quicker recoveries, and overall better outcomes World-class cancer care through McLaren Cancer Institute the largest cancer care network in the state, including McLaren Medical Oncology Associates, an outpatient facility where oncologists, nurses and the cancer treatment team take pride in being part of each patients family support system McLaren Orthopedic Hospital the states largest dedicated orthopedic hospital and third busiest joint replacement facility, as well as a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Blue Distinction Center for knee and hip replacement Comprehensive womens health services for all stages of life provided in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, as well as a birthing center that combines a compassionate labor and delivery team with a warm, soothing setting
rich howard, LrCC vice President Business development

Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) president and CEO Tim Daman is pleased to announce that Rich Howard has been hired as vice president of business development. In this position, Howard will be responsible for overseeing LRCC membership growth and retention efforts, as well as maximizing member investment opportunities. Rich Howard has more than 22 years of experience working with public school districts, nonprofit organizations, and nation and statewide associations, said Daman. His demonstrated leadership abilities will be a tremendous asset in helping the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce grow the organization and deliver more value to our members.

Howard has served as chief financial officer of the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP, Inc.) since 2011. He also served as interim president and CEO during a leadership transition at LEAP, Inc. and coordinated all administrative and fund development-related activities for the Lansing Promise, an award promised to graduates of public and private schools within the boundaries of the Lansing School District. Rich also served as vice president of strategic initiatives at Lansing Community College, and has also served in executive roles at Grand Valley State University and Baker College of Owosso. Rich holds a Bachelors Degree in Communications and a Masters Degree in Counseling from Michigan State University. He is currently a licensed professional counselor in the State of Michigan and serves on the board of several nonprofits.

To find a physician, visit mclaren.org/lansingdoctors.

401 W. Greenlawn Ave., Lansing, MI 48910 | (517) 975-6000 mclaren.org/lansing

FEBRUARY 2013

The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce is the premier business advocacy organization in the Greater Lansing region and it is a privilege to join this great team, said Howard. The Chambers most important role is to serve our members, and we will strive to ensure that we are providing programs and services that meet the needs of business organizations in the region.

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Members on The Move

PeoPLe neWS
grand river Connection, a young professionals networking organization, has elected its 2013 board of directors: Marc Merritt, president (Merrill Lynch); gabrielle Johnson, secretary; Pat firtl, treasurer (Doctors Company); naomi Burton, communications chair, (Martin Waymire); andrea ragan, special events chair (Capital Area IT Council); Brian gallagher, networking programs chair (Fraser Trebilcock); rachel zylstra, membership chair (MSU); Matt Szubinski, sponsorship and finance chair (Maner Costerisan); and andrea Kerbuski, media chair (Capital Area Michigan Works!); david Lick, a shareholder in foster Swifts Lansing office, will teach a course on Public Private Partnerships (P3) to law students at the University of Western Ontario. Mr. Lick will be joined by the Canadian Consulate General Roy Norton, who will address the class. Publicom, inc., a fullservice marketing and communications firm, has promoted Sarah hankinson to administrative accounting assistant. The greater Lansing Convention and visitors Bureau is pleased to announce that sales manager heather Cooper Kim recently earned the highlyregarded Certified Meeting Professional designation from the National Convention Industry Council. The Capital area Manufacturing Council has named Michelle Cordano as the new executive director.

heather Cooper Kim

msuFCu vacation package Winner polina naumova

Michelle Cordano origami Brain injury rehabilitation Center is excited to announce the addition of dr. rebecca Wyatt as the new medical director. Rebecca Wyatt, D.O., specializes in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Michigan State University.

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david Lick

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FEBRUARy 2013

dr. rebecca Wyatt

msuFCu Wheat Jewelers Winner michael huschke and Family

Sarah hankinson The aSU group, an employee owned corporation that provides services to the insurance industry and self-insured organizations, elected its 2013 officers and ESOP Committee. The 2013 Board of Directors is as follows: Tara oConnor Larose, James r. Matthews, Kim Pavlik and debra Claeys. The following individuals were elected as officers of the corporation for 2013: debra Claeys, president, Sarah hartman, secretary/treasurer, Tara oConnor Larose, chairman and James r. Matthews, vice chairman. The Board appointed the following to the ESOP Fiduciary Committee: debra Claeys chair, Cheryl hendrixson, Chad Johnson and audrey Pike. The Board elected the following as ESOP Trustees: James r. Matthews chair and Sarah hartman. The following individuals were appointed to the ESOP Advisory Committee: Theresa Cooper chair, Julie Somes and Kristine Spangler. The local CPA and business advisory firm of Maner Costerisan is pleased to announce that Jeffery allen, CPa, CgfM and Brandy Terwilliger, CPa, have been promoted to senior manager.

Throughout 2012, MSU federal Credit Union offered a variety of special promotions to celebrate its 75th anniversary. MSUFCU recently announced the winners of its two 75th anniversary grand prizes: Polina naumova, who won a $7,500 Classic Travel package, and Michael huschke, who won a $7,500 gift card to Wheat Jewelers. Two Men and a Truck, a home and business moving company, is pleased to announce the addition of a new employee at the Lansing office. amanda Wilson was recently hired as a move consultant. amanda Wilson Jordan young is one of the newest additions to the edge Partnerships team, assisting as a marketing and public relations intern. Jesseca frost also joins edge Partnerships as a public relations intern.

Liz Beal, branch manager for Citizens Bank in Lansing, has received the companys prestigious Business Banking Certificate. The certificate, which takes up to a year to earn, requires successful completion of a series of educational classes combined Liz Beal with hands-on training while working with business owners. Michelle Beebe has been named the new vice president of agent services at grotenhuis. Maner Costerisan is pleased to announce Jeffrey L. Staley, CPa as a new principal effective January 1, 2013. yeo & yeo, CPas & Business Consultants, is pleased to announce that Suzanne Sharp has joined the firm as marketing director.

Suzanne Sharp

Members on The Move

Congratulations to Jessica Westmeier-Shuh, occupational therapist at origami Brain injury rehabilitation Center, for achieving her certification as a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS). The Loomis, ewert, Parsley, davis & gotting P.C. law firm is pleased to announce that Jack C. davis has been named the 2013 Board Chair for the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP, Inc.) Jack C. davis Betsy Sundalius, a project engineer at Metalist international inc., was recently recognized by The Manufacturing Institute, Deloitte, University of Phoenix, and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers with a Women Betsy Sundalius in Manufacturing STEP (Science, Technology, Engineering and Production) Award for her excellence and leadership in manufacturing. abraham & gaffney, P.C., Certified Public accountants, is pleased to announce 2013 promotions at the East Lansing office: Jordan Smith, CPa, was promoted to manager and ailie Weaver was promoted to senior auditor. Steve Walker has joined Maner Costerisan as a business solutions specialist. project has now raised more than $4,000 for the Sandy Hook Support Fund administered by the United Way of Western Connecticut, with orders coming in from 38 different states. Patty hopes to raise $5,000 by Feb. 22, the final day to purchase a T-shirt. Companies to Work For. The greater Lansing Convention and visitors Bureau is pleased to announce that it has successfully achieved re-accreditation from the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program. McLaren greater Lansing was recently awarded Primary Stroke Certification from the Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program (HFAP), an independent accreditation organization recognized by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. astera Credit Union has put the finishing touches on its newest location, 5615 W. Saginaw Hwy. in Lansing. The new branch opened January 22, 2013. Asteras Waverly Rd. location has transitioned to entirely administrative functions.

CoMPany neWS
Publicom, inc., a full-service marketing communications firm, was chosen from among 11 contenders to provide public relations services to support the grand opening of Cabelas Outpost Store in Saginaw. yeo & yeo CPas is helping to advance Michigans growth by nurturing companies through pro bono services under the Pure Michigan Business Connect initiative. This initiative, developed by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), connects early-stage Michigan companies with professionals who will provide legal, accounting and other services at little to no cost. Over the next five years, Yeo & Yeo will donate up to a grand total of $250,000 in services to select Pure Michigan Business Connect program participants. LafCU has purchased a freestanding building in Mason to offer members easier access and additional services. Currently located inside the Mason Meijer store, the LAFCU branch will be expanding and relocating to a facility at 750 N. Cedar St., next to McDonalds and just off U.S. 127 in Mason. olivet College was recently awarded a $5,000 grant from State farm insurance Companies in support of its Charles Trubac Endowed Scholarship. Trubac, who previously served as regional vice president of State Farm, is a trustee emeritus of the college and a founding member of its Risk Management and Insurance Center. Clark Construction Company officials proudly joined in the celebration marking the grand opening of the renovated Michigan State University Union. Clark Construction served as Construction Manager on the MSU Union project. On January 3, the U.S. Department of Energy announced that it has awarded novozymes and MBi up to $2.5 million to develop new enzyme-based technologies to convert corn stover into sugars for subsequent conversion into biofuels.
representatives from msuFCu and auburn hills Firefighters helping hands with the Giving tree at msuFCus oakland university branch in auburn hills.

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MSU federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) recently partnered with Michigan State Universitys University Housing, Child and Family Charities, and Auburn Hills Firefighters Helping Hands for its 2012 Giving Tree. Sixty children from MSUs University Housing and ninety-four children from Child and Family Charities received gifts from their holiday wish lists. Five children from the Auburn Hills Firefighters Helping Hands program received gifts, and a check for more than $1,100 was also presented to this organization.

the t-shirt honoring victims of the tragedy in newton, Conn., designed by olivet College senior patty Groh of lansing.

A new year heralds in a new NAME for Aging Services of Michigan, now known as LeadingAgeMichigan. Information about its new initiatives can be found at its web site, www.LeadingAgemi.org. Plante Moran PLLC, one of the nations largest certified public accounting and business advisory firms, has been named for the 15th consecutive year to FORTUNE magazines list of the The 100 Best

Stunned by the tragedy in Newtown, Conn., olivet College senior Patty groh, Lansing, felt compelled to do something to help. She designed a T-shirt honoring the 26 victims six women, 12 girls, eight boys which she began selling on Facebook. The

FOCUS

Chamber in action

FOCUS

the lansing regional Chamber participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony to dedicate the Knowles learning Center-Faculty office suite at Great lakes Christian College (GlCC) on august 28, 2012. pictured left, Cynthia eiseler, melissa nay, barb schram, GlCC president larry Carter, Dr. lloyd Knowles, tim Daman, Joe Chahine and susan hengesbach.

keeping things on the up-and-up. (and the down-low)

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Reaching new heights, building stronger foundations, elevating human achievement.

above: another enthusiastic crowd of Chamber members enjoyed the January member mixer, held at the new Doctors approach facility at 2685 Jolly road, okemos.

Architecture, Engineering & Planning c2ae.com 866.454.3923

left: the Chamber mixer at Doctors approach was a stress-relieving experience for those who took advantage of the complimentary chair massages!

Michigan Lansing Gaylord Grand Rapids Escanaba Kalamazoo New York Canton

Chamber in action

group

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BRAND FORWARD
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