“People comment on the value
people with disabilities bring into
The Peckham Impact
A Mission of Diversity
Diversity has a wide range of meanings in the
business world. Incorporating diverse cultures along with
ethnic and racial groups into organizations often presents
significant challenges.
At Peckham Inc., diversity is a critical component to
their mission. A nonprofit organization that was founded
in 1976 to provide vocational evaluation, job training and
paid employment to persons with disabilities, Peckham
has become one of the largest vocational rehabilitation
programs in Michigan, serving 7,300 local residents in its
seven county service area and employing more than 3,000
workers with a disability, in one of four highly successful
business operations.
Peckham provides people with physical, cognitive,
behavioral and socio-economic challenges an opportunity
to demonstrate their ability, learn new skills, participate in
work and enjoy the rewards of their success. Thousands of
workers employed by one of the Peckham programs have
gone on to enjoy successful jobs with other employers
throughout the region.
“In Michigan, 60 to 70 percent of people with severe
disabilities are unemployed,” said Peckham President
& CEO Mitch Tomlinson. “Our success shows that this
group of workers can be an amazing work force.”
Peckham’s line of products and services is as
diverse as the people the organization serves. The
manufacturing division is a leading supplier of high
performance extreme-weather clothing for the armed
forces. Peckham Automotive has been a Tier 1 supplier
to the automotive industry for more than 20 years. The
nonprofit’s Environmental Services division cleans nearly
seven million square feet of office and retail space daily.
The organization also operates a supply chain solutions
division that includes a sophisticated logistics and
warehouse management system. In addition, Peckham
recently purchased a farm and is making plans to expand
into that area.
Though Peckham has had enormous success in a
business sense, the organization never loses sight of its
mission to provide opportunities to people with disabilities.
Several years ago, many clients were expressing a desire
may2011
that includes people with disabilities.”
Peckham employees Nathan Burtch and Catherine Mer-
cer working at the call center. Peckham’s information
management division has helped clients develop tech-
nical skills that often lead to higher paying white collar
positions.
to develop technical skills and gain employment in white
collar positions. Peckham’s response was to develop
its information management division with state-of-the-
art software and industry leading technology. Peckham
is now the prime contractor for the U.S. Department of
State’s National Passport Information Center, and also
offers call center, mailing, document management and
destruction and other office services.
“We’ve been able to create an environment that helps
people be successful,” said Tomlinson. “The enhanced
technology training has created more opportunities and
better paying jobs.”
Whatever the line of work, Peckham emphasizes best
practices in every pursuit. The organization’s recently
the workplace. They bring a fresh
perspective, they are a dependable
and committed work force. We
know that customers and staff are
more likely to support a business
constructed headquarters and manufacturing facility on
Capital City Boulevard is one of just 12 manufacturing
facilities in the country to be designated with the
prestigious LEED silver certification. Peckham was also
named a 2008 Alfred P. Sloan Award winner for Business
Excellence in Workplace Flexibility. Tomlinson feels that
employees benefit from the culture to which they are
exposed each day.
“There is a lot of emphasis on quality systems,
continuous improvement and benchmarking which means
clients are learning best practices and are able to transfer
these skills into the work world,” said Tomlinson.
Many businesses in the region see the benefit of
hiring Peckham employees including Jackson National,
the Kellogg Center and the State of Michigan. Those
employers have come to realize some of the benefits that
result in including people with disabilities in their own
work force.
“People comment on the value people with disabilities
bring into the workplace. They bring a fresh perspective,
they are a dependable and committed work force. We
know that customers and staff are more likely to support
a business that includes people with disabilities,” notes
Tomlinson.
The Peckham model won’t translate in its entirety to
every organization, but business leaders can learn a great
deal from Peckham’s climate of diversity and strategies
of innovation and inclusion. Many businesses are also
finding they can promote a strategic business advantage
through diversity.
Business leaders interested in promoting and
enhancing a positive culture of diversity will want to be
involved with the 2011 Employer Conference on Workplace
Diversity being presented in August by the Lansing Regional
Chamber of Commerce and Public Policy Associates.
Tomlinson is a member of the committee that has
been planning the diversity conference. His message to
employers in the region?
“If you embrace diversity you will create an
environment in which people will want to work and as a
result they will grow and prosper, as will your business.”
 2010
May Focus 2011
August
Tim Daman
President and CEO
Lansing Regional
Chamber of Commerce
The private sector needs to be engaged
in shaping the policies that will
determine if we will have a state and
region that will encourage economic
investment and job creation. The
Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce
is committed to making sure that the
voice of business is heard loud and clear.
2
A Message from the President
Challenging Times. Bold Leadership.
Whether you’re involved with business, education or government, you have undoubtedly faced some of the most difficult
challenges of your career in recent years. The economic turmoil of the past decade has caused significant restructuring in
the way in which organizations operate.
There remain significant challenges in rebuilding and restructuring, particularly in the public sector. Those challenges
require bold leadership and in many cases, new approaches that are often controversial.
Tough times and hard decisions can also be viewed as opportunities to build a better future for our state. That’s why the
private sector must be actively engaged in the discussions to restructure and rebuild state and local government. It is
private sector growth and investment that will serve as the economic engine that will power our state in the future.
The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) has been actively engaged in the critical public policy discussions
that are ongoing in Michigan. We have done that through our announced support of Governor Rick Snyder’s tax reform
plan and for the International Trade Crossing. LRCC also announced it is not supporting the proposed 4 mill property tax
hike in the city of Lansing.
The Chamber also continues to provide the business community with the opportunity to hear leaders in business and
government share their viewpoints. In recent weeks, the Economic Club hosted Demmer Corporation CEO Bill Demmer,
Governor Snyder and Michigan International Speedway President Roger Curtis. We’ve also hosted an exporting discussion
with U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow and U.S. Commerce undersecretary Francisco Sanchez.
The private sector needs to be engaged in shaping the policies that will determine if we will have a state and region that will
encourage economic investment and job creation. The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce is committed to making
sure that the voice of business is heard loud and clear.
C a l e n d a r
The Chamber’s address is 500 East Michigan Avenue, Suite 200, Lansing, MI 48912.
May
Wednesday, May 4
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, May 10
Member Mixer, 5 - 7 p.m., Becky Beauchine Kul-
ka Diamonds & Fine Jewelry, 3544 Meridian Crossing,
Ste. 150, Okemos, MI 48864. $10 member, $30 non-
member. Includes hors d’oeuvres.
Wednesday, May 11
Port Lansing/Foreign Trade Zone Semi-
nar, 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Mott Community College
Livingston Center, 1240 Packard Drive, room 119,
Howell, MI 48843. Registration is $25. RSVP to
Jennifer Bayleat at 517.546.0822 or jbayleat@living-
stonedc.com.
Wednesday, May 18
East Lansing / Meridian Government
Relations Committee, 8 – 9 a.m. Walnut Hills
Country Club, 2874 Lake Lansing Rd., East Lansing,
MI 48823. The East Lansing / Meridian Govern-
ment Relations Committee generally meets the third
Wednesday of each month to provide a forum for
business leaders to discuss important issues affecting
East Lansing/Meridian Township. To ensure adequate
seating, please RSVP to Jason Green at jgreen@lan-
singchamber.org.
Thursday, May 19
Economic Club, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Kellogg
Hotel & Conference Center, East Lansing. Regional
Discussion: The Business of Education. Sponsored
by Fahey, Schultz, Burzych, Rhodes., PLC 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.lansing-
chamber.org.
May Focus 2011
Thursday, June 2
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 programs, member exposure, networking
and educational event opportunities. This is a FREE
event, but space is limited. To register for this event
please visit www.lansingchamber.org.
Wednesday, June 15
Grub Crawl, 5 - 8 p.m., Eastwood Towne Center,
3003 Preyde Blvd., Lansing, MI 48912. Enjoy food
samplings from select restaurants located in Eastwood
Towne Centre. Tickets: Pre-sale: $20 per person, $35
per couple; Night of: $25 person; $40 per couple. For
Jun e more information on sponsorship call Sarah Lackey at
853-6457 and to purchase tickets visit www.lansing-
Wednesday, June 1 chamber.org.
Delta Government Relations Committee,
8 – 9 a.m. Lexington Lansing Hotel, 925 S. Creyts Wednesday, June 15
Rd., Lansing, MI 48917. The Delta Government Rela- East Lansing / Meridian Government
tions Committee meets the first Wednesday of each Relations Committee, 8 – 9 a.m. Walnut Hills
month to provide a forum for business leaders to dis- Country Club, 2874 Lake Lansing Rd., East Lansing, MI
cuss important issues affecting Delta Township. To 48823. The East Lansing / Meridian Government Rela-
ensure adequate seating, please RSVP to Jason Green tions Committee generally meets the third Wednesday
at jgreen@lansingchamber.org. of each month to provide a forum for business lead-
ers to discuss important issues affecting East Lansing/
Meridian Township. To ensure adequate seating,
please RSVP to Jason Green at jgreen@lansingcham-
ber.org.
Not a member and
interested in
becoming one? Event Cost is complimentary
Please contact the for these enhanced membership
levels:
Lansing Regional
Bronze Gold
Chamber of Commerce
Silver Platinum
at 517-487-6340 or
visit our website
www.lansingchamber.org
3
 Lansing Regional
2010
May Focus 2011

Chamber of Commerce
2011 Board of
Directors
A-1 Rent-All Stop Caddis Development Group, LLC Lansing Community College Foundation
Equipment Rental Real Estate Developers & Alumni Assoc Officers
August

Mr. Gary Helfmann Mr. Kevin McGraw, President Associations CHAIR OF THE BOARD
4916 S. Cedar, Lansing, MI 48910 4520 North Grand River Ave. Mr. Andrew Lathrop, Manager Alumni Ron Simon Auto-Owners Insurance Company
Phone: (517) 394-0220 Lansing, MI 48906 Relations & Annual Campaign PAST CHAIR
Fax: (517) 394-0237 Phone: (517) 703-2103 8021-Foundation Vic Verchereau Farm Bureau Insurance Company
www.a1rentall.com Fax: (517) 703-2152 P.O. Box 40010, Lansing, MI 48901 CHAIR ELECT
www.caddisdev.com Phone: (517) 483-1985 Nancy McKeague Michigan Hospital Association
A/V Consultants & Rentals
Fax: (517) 267-5554 LEGAL COUNSEL
Audio Visual Equipment Capital Area Regional Health
www.lcc.edu Jeff Hicks Hicks & Mullett, PLLC
Mr. Tod Perleberg, Co-Owner Information Organization TREASURER
4334 Lynn St., Holt, MI 48842 Medical Technology Michigan Asset Group LLC Michelle Gallagher Gallagher & Associates
Phone: (517) 763-6768 Ms. Carol Parker, Executive Director Property Management PRESIDENT
Fax: (517) 763-6768 2145 University Park Dr., Ste. 200 Mr. Evert Kramer, President Tim Daman Lansing Regional Chamber
Okemos, MI 48864 1651 W. Lake Lansing Rd., #400
Aaron’s Roto-Rooter, LLC
Phone: (517) 347-3373 East Lansing, MI 48823
Plumbing-Drain & Sewer Cleaning
Fax: (517) 347-3387 Phone: (517) 580-3445 DIVISION DIRECTORS
Mr. Aaron Sklapsky, Owner Int’l Business Services
www.capitalarearhio.org Fax: (517) 574-5036
2207 W. Willow, Lansing, MI 48917 Jason Sanders Fifth Third Bank
Phone: (517) 321-2100 Capitol Transport, L.L.C. Michigan Osteopathic Association Government Relations
Fax: (517) 484-2366 Trucking-Motor Freight Associations Kevin McKinney McKinney & Associates
www.rotorooter.com Ms. Phyllis Wilson Mr. Kris Nicholoff, Executive Director MARKETING & COMMUNICATION
4773 W. Grand River Ave., Lansing, MI 48906 2445 Woodlake Circle, Okemos, MI 48864 Paula Cunningham Capitol National Bank
Abraham Real Estate
Phone: (517) 485-0514 Phone: (517) 347-1555 MEMBERSHIP SERVICES
Real Estate Developers
Fax: (517) 347-1566 Steven Hess Accident Fund Insurance Company of America
Mr. Charles J. Abraham, Owner Five Lakes Media
www.mi-osteopathic.org
431 S. Capitol, Lansing, MI 48933 Internet Marketing Consultants
Phone: (517) 484-3800 Mr. Allan Coyle, Partner Mid-Michigan Fabrication AT-LARGE
Melanie Bergeron Two Men & A Truck International
Fax: (517) 485-8776 210 Smith Ave., Lansing, MI 48910 Manufacturer
Lon Bohannon Neogen Corporation
Phone: (248) 387-9695 Mr. Gregory Eiseler, VP Sales
Arcpoint of Mid-Michigan John Brown Jackson National Life Insurance Company
fivelakesmedia.com 5801 W. Mt. Hope Hwy., Lansing, MI 48917
Employee Selection, Testing & Development Denyse Ferguson LEAP
Phone: (517) 322-9922
Mr. Thomas Marlow, President It Works Global Patrick Dean Dean Transportation
Fax: (517) 322-0120
6920 S. Cedar St., Ste. 3, Lansing, MI 48911 Nutritional & Personal Care Products Joe Ford Netvantage Marketing
Phone: (517) 215-7209 Ms. Laura DeLong Roger J. Thornburg - Investors Equity Pat Gillespie Gillespie Group
Fax: (517) 699-1930 4169 Quest Dr., Eaton Rapids, MI 48827 Group, Inc. Mark Kellogg Fraser Trebilcock
www.arcpointlabs.com Phone: (517) 719-8021 Investment Services Bill Kimble C2AE
J. Peter Lark Lansing Board of Water and Light
Fax: (517) 766-5909 Mr. Roger J. Thornburg, Owner
Bell Title Company Deborah Muchmore Marketing Resource Group
www.lauradelong.com 611 S. Capitol Ave., Lansing, MI 48933
Title Companies David Mulder Meijer
Phone: (517) 487-6600
Mrs. Leigh Kraushaar, President Labor Ready, Inc. Brian Priester LSJ Media
Fax: (517) 487-0164
2339 Jolly Rd., Okemos, MI 48864 Employment Agencies & Consultants Timothy Salisbury PNC Bank
Phone: (517) 381-5353 Mr. Jason Jones, Manager Sprint of East Lansing Jean G. Schtokal Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith
Fax: (517) 381-5354 1621 E. Kalamazoo St., Lansing, MI 48912 Telephone-Cellular Heather Shawa-DeCook Demmer Corporation
www.belltitle.net Phone: (517) 487-0808 Mr. Jerelle Borden, Store Manager Dennis Swan Sparrow Health Systems
Fax: (517) 487-1110 2843 E. Grand River Ave., Ste. 130 Ryan Vartoogian Spartan Internet
BITWC.COM (Build It They Will Come) Steve Webster Michigan State University
www.laborready.com East Lansing, MI 48823
Website Design
Phone: (517) 324-9900
Mr. Garland Burton Lake State Decorating
703 N. Lansing St., St. Johns, MI 48879 Painting Contractors
Fax: (517) 324-9980 FOCUS
Editor
Phone: (517) 775-4864 Mr. Jack Stohr, Treasurer Turning Leaf Rehabilitation Services Ross Woodstock
www.bitwc.com 3240 W. St. Joseph St., Lansing, MI 48917 Rehabilitation Services Printing
Phone: (517) 364-9000 Sami Aljallad, Executive Director Spartan Printing
Fax: (517) 364-9004 621 E. Jolly Rd., Lansing, MI 48910 Mailing
www.lakestatedecorating.com Phone: (517) 393-5203 Ext:19 Hot Prospects Direct
Fax: (517) 393-8968 Cover Photo
www.turningleafrehab.com Courtesy of Trumpie Photography

Advertisers
MessageMakers.......................................................2
Please remember to use the member login portion of the Chamber website to Comcast..................................................................8

keep your contact information up-to-date. This will ensure that you receive all

Ross Woodstock......................................................9
Accident Fund.......................................................10
Chamber communications in a timely manner. Contact us at 517.487.6340 if you CAMW...................................................................10
Blue Cross Blue Shield .........................................12
have any questions or are not receiving our communications.

4

Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce
Supports Governor Snyder’s Tax Plan and
New International Trade Crossing
The Lansing Regional Chamber
of Commerce has announced its sup-
port for Governor Rick Snyder’s tax
proposal and the New International
Trade Crossing. Under a compromise
plan agreed to by the Governor and
legislative leaders, the Michigan Busi-
ness Tax (MBT) would be replaced
by a 6 percent corporate income tax.
The individual income tax rate will be
frozen at 4.35 percent and roll-back
to 4.25 percent in 2013. The modi-
fied plan also calls for a 4 percent tax
on pensions, though seniors/retirees
over 67 years of age as of January 1,
Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce
Not Supportive of Property Tax Increase in Lansing
The Lansing
Regional Chamber of
Commerce (LRCC)
has taken a posi-
tion to not support
the proposed 4 mill
property tax increase
that will be on the May
3rd ballot in the city of
Lansing. The LRCC feels
that now is not the time to for
new tax increases on business. In
2012 will not lose their exemptions.
“We believe the Governor’s plan is the best oppor-
tunity to create a strong competitive business climate that
will lead to a long-term and sustainable economic climate
in Michigan,” said Kristin Beltzer, senior vice president of
Government Relations and Public Affairs. “We must create
an environment that encourages business expansion and
unleashes the job-creating power of the private sector in
our state.”
While the LRCC is supportive of the Governor’s tax
proposal, they are encouraging the administration to work
closely with House and Senate leadership in addressing
the Personal Property Tax. Governor Snyder’s tax reform
plan is part of a broader budget reform and restructuring
package has been sent to the state legislature for con-
today’s economic climate this sends the wrong message
not only to existing businesses but to potential business-
es as well. At the same time, the Chamber continues to
encourage Lansing city officials to explore further efforts
at achieving greater efficiency through regionalism, shar-
ing and consolidation of services as well as continuing to
explore reforms and greater efficiencies within city gov-
ernment.
“We applaud Mayor Virg Bernero and City Coun-
cilmember Kathie Dunbar for their leadership in difficult
times and for agreeing to let the voters of Lansing decide
this issue at the ballot box,” said Kristin Beltzer, senior
May Focus 2011
sideration. The LRCC has not yet taken a position, but is
continuing discussions on components of the Governor’s
budget beyond the tax reform initiatives.
In voting to support the New International Trade
Crossing, LRCC’s Public Policy and Advocacy Commit-
tee recognized the Lansing Regional Chamber’s efforts in
recent years to drive an international agenda by leading
efforts to create Port Lansing and a Foreign Trade Zone
in mid-Michigan; these efforts to become globally com-
petitive are not just limited to the Greater Lansing region.
LRCC views its support of the International Trade Cross-
ing as consistent with its international programs and its
emphasis on working with private and public partners in
supporting realistic and effective economic development
initiatives.
vice president of Government Relations and Public Affairs.
“Our members and business community strongly believe
that local government reform and regional collaboration
are essential to providing taxpayers with cost-effective gov-
ernment.”
The LRCC is also encouraged by the recent dis-
cussion on regional fire consolidation and the Mayor’s
announcement of convening a Blue Ribbon Committee
on regionalism. The business community feels that the
prospect for reductions in the City’s public safety budgets
should serve as impetus to accelerate inter-governmental
discussions surrounding consolidation and other oppor-
tunities to share services.
5
May Focus 2011

Regional Business Leaders Encouraged to Seek

Increased Global Exporting Opportunities
Think global “It has been exciting to work with the Lansing International Trade
and take advantage Regional Chamber on efforts to make mid-Michigan Center have been
of international an international hub for businesses,” said Senator integral part in grow-
exporting oppor- Stabenow. “This meeting was an opportunity for ing regional efforts to
tunities. That was undersecretary Sanchez to hear about these efforts expand global mar-
the message deliv- and for mid-Michigan businesses to learn more ket opportunities,”
ered to regional about federal export resources and how they can said Brent Case,
business leaders overcome unfair trade barriers to export more of LRCC vice president
during a visit with their products. More exports mean more jobs for of International Busi-
U.S. Senator Deb- Michigan families.” ness Services. “This
bie Stabenow and Undersecretary Sanchez oversees the Inter- visit offered business
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow Francisco Sanchez, national Trade Administration, including export leaders the oppor-
U.S. Commerce undersecretary
undersecretary promotions, market access and trade law enforce- tunity to interact Francisco Sanchez
for International Trade at the U.S. Department of ment. The undersecretary talked with business with Senator Stabe-
Commerce. Senator Stabenow and undersecretary leaders about the country’s goal of doubling exports now and undersecretary Sanchez and provide input
Sanchez also listened to ideas for increasing exports by 2015, and how businesses can be part of achiev- on how export opportunities can be further expand-
from local entrepreneurs during the visit hosted by ing that goal. ed.”
the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. “The developments of Port Lansing and the

Canadian Consul General Ray Norton to Address

Aspects of Canada-Michigan Relationship
Canadian Con- of Commerce on Tuesday May 10, 2011, from trade, environment and investment, among others.
sul General Ray noon-1:30 p.m. at the Kellogg Center in East Currently based in Detroit, Norton represents Canada
Norton, Ph.D. will Lansing. in Michigan and three other Midwestern states.
address aspects of Consul General Norton will highlight the many Registration for the luncheon may be done online
the Canada-Michi- aspects of the Canada-Michigan relationship, includ- at www.GBClub.msu.edu or by calling Jade Sims at
gan relationship as ing trade, environmental stewardship, and partners 517-884-1660. The cost for the luncheon is $25,
keynote speaker at in global security. He will discuss the benefits of the payable by credit card or check online, and check
a luncheon forum New International Trade Crossing for Michigan’s or cash at the door. On the day of the event, regis-
sponsored by the businesses and the importance of modern border tration/networking will begin at 11:30 a.m., lunch at
Global Business infrastructure to meet the needs of the state’s new 12:00 p.m. and the keynote speaker at 12:30 p.m.
Club of Mid-Michi- economy. The Kellogg Center Hotel and Conference Center is
Canadian Consul General gan and the Lansing As head of the Canadian Consulate General, located at 55 South Harrison Road, on the campus of
Ray Norton Regional Chamber Norton oversees promotion of Canadian interests in Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan.

6

Lansing Chamber Debuts New Website
The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC)
is excited about the debut of it’s new website. Check it
out today and make sure to bookmark www.lansingcham-
ber.org. The Chamber’s website is home to several new
features in a format that is very user friendly and easy to
navigate.
“We’ve worked for several months to develop a web-
site that we know our members will enjoy, but will also
create a positive impression about our region for the many
visitors that want to learn about our community,” said
Aubrey Zimmerman, LRCC marketing and communications
manager.
Among the newest features website visitors will enjoy
are news and updates from around the region and video
interviews with the Chamber’s event speakers, members
and elected officials, as well as an online version of FOCUS
Chamber mixers provide our members with great net-
working opportunities in a fun atmosphere. Members
enjoyed the April mixer held at The Exchange in down-
town Lansing. Make plans to attend our next mixer on
Tuesday, May 10 at Becky Beauchine Kulka Diamonds
and Fine Jewelry.
May Focus 2011
magazine. The website also provides instant connectivity to
various social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter
and Linked In.
The website has not lost useful features available
prior to the latest upgrade. Registration links for Chamber
events and programs are available in a more streamlined
format. Members will also find information regarding
popular affinity programs including Blue Cross Blue Shield
health insurance, Accident Fund Workers Compensation
program, and savings programs offered by Auto-Owners
Insurance, Comcast Business Class and DBI-We Do Office.
The newly redesigned LRCC website is a service to
our members and we want to make sure that we are meet-
ing your needs. We are constantly working to improve our
site, so we are most interested in and encourage your feed-
back.
Waverly HS Chamber Orchestra was presented with a
check from their performance at the 2011 LRCC Annual
Dinner. LRCC President & CEO Tim Daman was joined
by Kelli Ellsworth-Etchison, vice president of communi-
ty and business development at LAFCU; Jenny Spurbeck,
director of the Waverly Orchestra,; Tracy Thomas, dep-
uty principal at Waverly High School; Calvin Jones, vice
president of the Waverly School Board; and Pat Spkye,
senior vice president of marketing at LAFCU.
7
May Focus 2011

Send your news to Aubrey Zimmerman at

azimmerman@lansingchamber.org
PEOPLE NEWS

McLaren Health Plan is excit-
ed to welcome Teri Mikan as
vice president of Regulatory
Affairs & Compliance Officer.
Fraser Trebilcock is pleased to announce that Max R.
Hoffman, Jr. and Thomas L. Sparks have joined the
firm as shareholders in its Lansing office.
Dione Pena is the new training manager for CASE Cred-
it Union.
Tri-Star Trust Bank announced that Scott L. Freeman
has become its chief investment officer.
Loomis, Ewert, Parsley,
Davis & Gotting P.C. is
pleased to announce that Leah
J. Brooks has joined the firm
as an associate attorney.
The Greater Lansing Sports Authority is pleased to
announce it has promoted two current staff members to
higher positions within the organization: Mike Price,
part of the organization since its inception in 2007, has
been promoted to executive director of the GLSA; T.J.
Hawkins, a part-time sports assistant with the GLSA since
2009, has been promoted to the full-time post of sports
coordinator.

Fifth Third Bank announced

Robert Wagner has been
named treasury management Kate F. Fetkenhier, attorney
officer. at The Gallagher Law Firm,
PLC was recently appointed
as a member of the Legal and Cooley Law School Associate Dean Joan Vestrand
Legislative Committee of the spoke recently at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy’s 22nd
Michigan Oil and Gas Associa- Annual Ethics Forum in New London, Conn.
tion.

8

Mark R. Fox, a shareholder
with Fraser Trebilcock, was
selected for “Best Lawyers in
America” in the area of Patent
Law Litigation.
The University Quality Inn is proud to announce Jason
Fawaz as its new sales and marketing manager.
Goldie Adele, Cooley Law
School Coordinator of Stu-
dent Services and Diversity
Programs, was recently elect-
ed as the chairperson of the
Legislative Division of the
National Bar Association.
COMPANY NEWS
Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Author-
ity (LEPFA) today announced that Lansing Center has
become the first convention center in the country to
attain certification through the Society of Environmentally
Responsible Facilities (SERF).
Corp! Magazine has named Clark Construction as one
of the “Best of Michigan Business 2011.”
Chamber Milestones
We’d 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!
Option 1 Credit Union.......................25 years
Neogen Corporation..........................25 years
Veterans of Foreign Wars...................20 years
Granger.............................................20 years
Centry Corp/Charlotte
Mini Storage, LLC.......................20 years
Video To Go.......................................15 years
Capital Area MICHIGAN WORKS!........15 years
Timber Ridge Senior
Assisted Living............................10 years
Rehmann...........................................10 years
Maplegrove Property
Management, LLC.......................10 years
May Focus 2011
Olivet College’s Office of College Relations was recently As part of its ongoing com-
recognized with three 2011 PACE Awards from the Cen- mitment to diversity, the arts
tral Michigan Chapter of the Public Relations Society of and Lansing public schools,
America. LAFCU sponsored a visit by
violin virtuoso and Lansing
Dart Development Group closed three deals at their native Melissa White, who
Lansing industrial park, Oakwood Executive Park – a fin- shared her music and expe-
ish to suit for 10,060 SF, a 2-story flex space for 18,692 SF, riences with children at
and an office/warehouse space for 8,000 SF. Lansing’s Pleasant View Magnet
School, Pattengill Middle School and Everett High School,
TDS Telecommunications Corp. announced it is the leading up to a performance with the Lansing Symphony
recipient of a Cisco Partner Summit regional award for Orchestra on March 26.
United States Service Provider Small Business Partner of
the Year. Lansing Ophthalmology is pleased to announce the
merger with Michigan Eye Care Specialists. On April
Foster Swift Collins & Smith, P.C. earned second place 1, 2011, Lansing Ophthalmology merged with the prac-
honors for their new web site in the Legal Marketing Asso- tice of Joseph Wilhelm, M.D., Kevin Liu, D.O. and James
ciation Midwest Chapter’s Annual “Your Honor” Awards in Budge, O.D. All three doctors will continue to practice at
the category of Web Sites and Other Electronic Media. their Lake Lansing Road, East Lansing location. However,
now they will be known as Lansing Ophthalmology.
Integrated Strategies Inc. has been selected as the
April Dart Development Difference Maker for help- Truscott Rossman was honored with four of Mid-Mich-
ing businesses improve their supply chain management igan’s highest public relations honors today at the 2011
processes, Making a Difference in their bottom line. annual PACE Awards luncheon.
MessageMakers has been recognized as one of the 2011 The Williamston Area Chamber of Commerce held a
“Michigan 50 Companies to Watch.” ribbon cutting ceremony for The Williamston Exchange, a
re-sale shop with many wonderful treasures.
The law firm of Miller Canfield announces that it again
ranks first among Michigan bond counsel law firms in the
2010 Bond Counsel Rankings by Thomson Reuters, rec-
ognizing the law firm for 125 long term new bond issues
totaling $3.618 billion.
The James B Henry Center for
Executive Development.................5 years
Prosecuting Attorney’s Association
of Michigan..................................5 years
Michigan Optometric Association........5 years
Great Lakes Pediatric Association........5 years
Forest Akers Golf Course At
The Henry Center Complex...........5 years
Cole Academy......................................5 years
Candlewood Suites At
The Henry Center Complex...........5 years
BS & A Software...................................5 years
9
May Focus 2011
Agro- Culture Liquid Fertilizer, Since 1996
B & D Electric, Inc., Since 1996
Breslin Student Events Center, Since 2010
BS & A Software, Since 2007
Candlewood Suites At The Henry Center Complex,
Since 2007
Capital Area MICHIGAN WORKS!, Since 1997
Centry Corp./Charlotte Mini Storage, L.L.C.,
Since 1996
Chalgian & Tripp Law Offices, PLLC, Since 2009
Charter Township of Delta, Since 1996
Cole Academy, Since 2007
Corrigan Moving Systems, Since 2009
Country Stitches, Since 2005
Cron Management, LLC, Since 2010
D.L. Walker, Inc./dba Hobart Sales, Since 1996
East Lansing Marriott, Since 1996
Edward Jones, Since 2003
Electric Software LLC, Since 2006
Executive Office Park & Conference Center,
Since 1998
Ferris State University Lansing, Since 2010
Fifth Third Bank, Since 2001
Firstbank, Since 2003
Forest Akers Golf Course At
The Henry Center Complex, Since 2010
GM Lansing Operations, Since 1954
Grand Traverse Pie Co., Since 2004
Granger, Since 1996
Great Lakes Pediatric Associates, Since 2007
Hacks Key Shop, Since 1996
Hampton Inn - East Lansing, Since 2001
Heights Auto Parts, Since 2010
Honigman Miller Schwartz and Cohn, LLP,
Since 2006
Ingham Intermediate School District, Since 1996
Jorgensen Farm Elevator, Since 2008
Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center, Since 2010
Maplegrove Property Management, LLC, Since 2002
Marketing Resource Group, Inc., Since 1996
Matrix Consulting Engineers, Inc., Since 2008
10
Maurer’s, Since 2004
McCartney & Company, PC, Since 1996
Mead & Hunt, Since 2004
Medical Management Systems of Michigan,
Since 1996
Merrill Lynch, Since 1996
Michigan Christian Campus Ministries, Since 2000
Michigan Optometric Association, Since 2007
Michigan Orthopedic Center, Since 1996
Motz Homes, Since 1996
Move to Mich, Since 2010
MSU Federal Credit Union, Since 1996
Neogen Corporation, Since 1996
NK Web Development, Since 2010
Okemos Psychological Consultants, Since 1997
Option 1 Credit Union, Since 1996
Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Program,
Since 2005
Payne-Rosso Company, Since 1996
Personnel World, Since 2006
Practical Political Consulting, Since 1996
Prosecuting Attorney’s Association of Michigan,
Since 2007
Pro-Tech Mechanical, Since 2003
Rehmann, Since 2002
Spartan Signature Catering, Since 2010
SYMBIOSIS International, Since 2010
Target Information Management, Inc., Since 1996
The Hubbard Law Firm, P.C., Since 1996
The James B. Henry Center For Executive
Development, Since 2007
Theroux Development Co., Inc., Since 2008
Tim Horton’s, Since 2010
Timber Ridge Senior Assisted Living, Since 2002
Veterans of Foreign Wars, Since 1996
Video To Go, Since 2005
Wal-Mart Super Center, Since 2005
Warmels & Comstock, PLLC, Since 1996
Wolverine Development Corporation, Since 1996
WSYM - Fox 47, Since 1996
 May Focus 2011
Economic Club Crowd Hears from Governor
Rick Snyder and MIS President Roger Curtis
The Economic Club of Greater Lansing continued its
string of impressive lunch programs featuring a diverse array
of outstanding speakers. Governor Rick Snyder was the fea- More than 800 people filled the Lan-
tured speaker at the March 31 luncheon held at the Lansing sing Center ballroom for the March
Center. A record crowd of more than 800 attendees listened 31 Economic Club speech by Governor
Rick Snyder.
to the Governor as he offered his perspective on Michigan’s
challenges, and his tax and budget plan currently being dis-
cussed in the state legislature.
Michigan International Speedway President Roger Cur-
tis entertained the Economic Club crowd at the April 14
event held at the MSU Kellogg Center. Curtis talked about the
economic impact of MIS and the organization’s strong com-
mitment to the state of Michigan.
The next Economic Club luncheon on May 19 will fea-
ture the annual discussion on regionalism, which this year
will focus on “The Business of Education.”
Michigan International Speedway President Roger Curtis edu-
cated the crowd on the wide array of activities at MIS and how
they impact the entire state of Michigan.
Governor Snyder used his
Economic Club appear-
ance to explain his tax
and budget reform pack-
age being debated in the
state legislature. He also
called for a more positive
approach in tackling the
difficult challenges being
faced in Michigan.

Roger Curtis brought the official

MIS pace car to the Kellogg Cen-
ter event on April 14.
 PRSRT STD
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500 East Michigan Avenue, Suite 200 LANSING, MI
Lansing, MI 48912 PERMIT NO. 622
Ph. 517.487.6340
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