april clobes · 2018-03-31 · pb focus / december 2017 lansingchamber.org 1 april clobes 2017...

PB FOCUS / DECEMBER 2017 LANSINGCHAMBER.ORG 1

APRIL CLOBES2017 ATHENA LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT

T H E M O N T H LY N E W S M A G A Z I N E O F T H E L A N S I N G R E G I O N A L C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E • D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 7

ATHENA IS A SYMBOL OF PROGRESSLRCC RECOGNIZED FOR CHAMBER EXCELLENCEFOCUS ON SMALL BUSINESS: THE DOWNEASTER THEATRE

2 FOCUS / DECEMBER 2017 LANSINGCHAMBER.ORG 3

THE ANNUAL PRESENTATION of the ATHENA Leadership award is, without question, one of the most inspiring moments of the year. Through ATHENA, the community recognizes one of its truly outstanding leaders who is a role model that has contributed to their organization, the community and the lives of those around them.

The 2017 ATHENA Leadership award recipient, April Clobes, is a prime example of an individual whose career has been dedicated to principles that define what ATHENA is all about. April’s rise through MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU), eventually becoming CEO in 2015, is a testament to her incredible work ethic and integrity. Her commitment to the development of every member of her team, her willingness to meet personally with every staff member, her commitment to mentoring women at all stages of their careers, and her dedication to our community are recognized by everyone that knows her. MSUFCU is a demonstrated philanthropic leader in our community, as the organization makes substantial financial commitments and its employees volunteer thousands of hours to worthwhile organizations.

We are most proud to have April serving as the 2018 Chair of our Board of Directors. It is especially gratifying for the Chamber to play a role in supporting the growth of more women into important community leadership positions. It is well known that Martha Mertz started the ATHENA program right here in Lansing in 1982. Martha has publicly stated that when she joined the Chamber board, she felt uncomfortable about being the only woman on the board. That is not the case anymore. There have been nine women board chairs in Chamber history — four in the past six years, including:

• Nanette Martin 1978• Martha Mertz 1985• Linda Cook 1992• Marianne Samper 1996• Barb Lezotte 2003• Nancy McKeague 2012• Paula Cunningham 2013• Deb Muchmore 2017• April Clobes 2018

The ATHENAPowerlink program has also made a significant contribution in the growth of women in business, as one deserving woman business owner a year receives invaluable professional support to help her business grow and prosper. We are pleased that Kellie Johnson, owner Kellie’s Consignments is the 2018 PowerLink recipient. The Chamber is also proud of our partnership with ATHENA WIN, which is bringing women together in important networking, educational and leadership forums.

The Chamber is a reflection of the business community and we are pleased to see women making considerable progress in leadership positions throughout our region. There is much more work to be done before we can say the glass ceiling is completely shattered, but we can see considerable progress as witnessed by programs like ATHENA and the incredible people doing such amazing work in our community. It has been 35 years since ATHENA began her journey in Lansing. Her impact is being felt globally. Let’s celebrate the progress and pay tribute to what ATHENA symbolizes. n

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAMBER

ATHENA is a Symbol of Progress

“It has been 35 years since ATHENA began her journey in Lansing. Her impact is being felt globally. Let’s celebrate the progress and pay tribute to what ATHENA symbolizes. ”

ABOUT THE LEADERSHIP CIRCLELeadership Circle members are proven business and community leaders. We value their commitment and applaud their efforts to strengthen our region with their leadership and appreciate the important role they play in advancing our organization.

TRANSPORTATION

TIM DAMANPresident and CEOLansing RegionalChamber of Commerce


TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5 / HOLIDAY MEMBER MIXER 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Lansing Brewing

Company, 518 E. Shiawassee Street, Lansing. No cost to attend for members ($15/non-members).

Includes hors d’oeuvres.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6 / DELTA GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE 8:00 a.m. – 9:00

a.m. Delta Township Library, 5130 Davenport Drive, Lansing. 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

Steve Japinga at [email protected].

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 / ATHENA AWARD PRESENTATION 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Kellogg

Hotel and Conference Center, East Lansing. The ATHENA Award celebrates the potential of

all women as leaders of the community and honors those who strive towards the highest levels

of professional accomplishment, who excel in their chosen field, have devoted time and energy

to their community, and who pave paths for other women to follow. Join us as we welcome the

newest member of the ATHENA Award legacy! $55/member, $75/nonmember, $425/table of eight

(includes plated lunch).

TUESDAY, JANUARY 9 / MEMBER MIXER 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Triterra, 1375 S. Washington

Avenue, Suite 300, Lansing. Triterra is a professional environmental consulting firm specializing

in brownfield development, environmental consulting, and natural resource management services.

Triterra was the 2016 recipient of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Outstanding

Small Business Award. No charge for Chamber members ($15/nonmembers). Includes drinks and

hors d’oeuvres.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 / LANSING ECONOMIC CLUB 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Kellogg Hotel

and Conference Center, East Lansing. Speaker: Dr. Thomas J. Holt, School of Criminal Justice,

Michigan State University. Program begins at noon. Please arrive early for registration and

networking. $55/member ticket, $75/non-member ticket or $425/table of eight (includes plated

lunch). Pre-registration is required.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

2017 Board of Directors

Board Chair Deb Muchmore / Kandler, Reed, Khoury & Muchmore

Past Chair Joe Ford / Netvantage Marketing

Chair Elect April Clobes / MSU Federal Credit Union

Legal Counsel Steve Owen / Foster Swift Collins & Smith P C

Treasurer Jeff Fineis / Andrews Hooper Pavlik PLC

President Tim Daman / Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce

Officers

Marketing and Communications Lisa O’Connor / Publicom

Regionalism Initiatives Mark Burnham / Michigan State University

Membership Services Patrick Dean / Dean Transportation

Government Relations Matt Resch / Resch Strategies

Division Directors

Editors Ross Woodstock

Eric Dimoff

Design Tandem Studios

Printing BRD Printing, Inc.

Cover Story Photography Trumpie Photography

Photography Hanna VonAchen

Mailing BRD Printing, Inc.

FOCUS

Tuesday, February 27, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.Location: Kellogg Hotel and Conference CenterTickets: www.lansingchamber.org

DON’T MISS! 2018 Annual Dinner

Lauren Aitch / Our Own Products

David Baker / Farm Bureau Insurance Company

Stella Cash / Sparrow Health System

Rick Calk / Neogen

Denise Droscha / Two Men & A Truck

Jenn Dubey / University Club

David Ferguson / Ferguson Development

Wendy Hamilton / TechSmith

Teri Hull / Dart Container

Van Martin / CBRE|Martin

Tom Mee / McLaren Greater Lansing

Steve Notar Donato / General Motors

Tonia Olson / Granger

Steve Reynolds / AF Group

Fathy Shetiah / 7C Lingo

Tom Stewart / Common Wealth Enterprises

Bill Woodbury / Auto-Owners Insurance, Co.

David Zyble / Jackson National Life Insurance

At-Large

LEAP, Inc.Bob Trezise / LEAP, Inc.

Grand River ConnectionTyler Dyke / State of Michigan

ATHENA WINJenn Sturdy / PNC Bank

Lansing Black Chamber of Commerce Reshane Lonzo / DRM Health Care

Greater Lansing Hispanic ChamberJose Yanez / Full Circle Financial Planning

Board Partnerships

STAY CONNECTED. STAY SOCIAL.

facebook.com/LansingChamber

twitter.com/LansingChamber

@LansingRegionalChamber

Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce

2017 LRCC EVENTS

For more information about Chamber events, tickets or sponsorships, contact Travis Richardson at 517-853-6463

or [email protected].

December Lansing Economic Club LuncheonSpeaker: Ron Fournier, Editor and Publisher,

Crain’s Detroit BusinessDate: Tuesday, December 12Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.Location: MSU Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center


Maloney Carpet Company

M P C Cashway Lumber, Inc.

Lansing Community College

APCO, Inc.YMCA of Metropolitan

LansingPlant Professionals,

The, Inc.Gud MarketingPlaymakersNorthwood University -

University CollegeGrand Hotel CompanyMichigan Legislative

ConsultantsGerald L. Gilroy, D.O.,

P.C.Dart, Papesh & Co., Inc.Fantastic FindsMurawski’s Tax

Service, Inc.

T.H. Eifert, LLC Mechanical Contractors

ComcastShakleeBiggby Coffee #206TriterraUniversity Quality InnHabitat for Humanity

Capital RegionMeridian Company, TheLansing MallSam’s ClubPortnoy & Tu, DDS,

PC. - Family Dentistry

Wolverine Water Treatment Systems/Michigan Soft Water

CSL Plasma ServicesDFCU Financial -

Lake LansingDFCU Financial -

S. Pennsylvania Ave.

DFCU Financial - W. Saginaw Hwy.

Dusty’s CellarGrewal LawO’Connor Occupational

Therapy Services, PLLC

Our Own Products, LLC

Farm News MediaHicks Brothers Real

EstateCardinal StaffingCapitol Area

Management ServicesSecurAlarm Systems IncBiddle City ProjectCountry Creek Property

PreservationFairfield Inn and

Suites by Marriott-Eastwood

Old Town MarqueeLettuce Live Well

Christensen LawFirst Light Home

Care, LLCEaton Federal Savings

BankTalecris Plasma

ResourcesCruise PlannersDunn Development

GroupArt Van PureSleepPeabody Group, TheFamily Heritage

InsuranceCompass Self StorageBiddle City DronesACD.net (KEPS

Technologies, Inc.)Coolidge Place

TownhomesImpact Solutions

BRIDGE HEALTHCARE PHARMACY658 E. Main St.Centreville, MI 49032269-467-3510

ART VAN PURESLEEP - 6007 W. SAGINAW6007 Saginaw Hwy.Lansing, MI 48917517-708-7351

ART VAN PURESLEEP - 2660 E. GRAND RIVER2660 E. Grand RiverOkemos, MI 48823844-227-1735

CRITICAL VICTORIES901 S. Bridge St., Suite 227DeWitt, MI 48820517-803-4063

THE CENTER FOR OPTIMAL HEALTH1520 Ramblewood DrEast Lansing, MI 48823517-324-9400

TRADE NETWORK INC.3721 W Michigan Ave., Suite 201Lansing, MI 48917517-886-8900

KINGSTON KITCHEN4749 Central Park Dr.Okemos, MI 48864517-708-8322

CHARLOTTERISING105 S. Cochran Ave. #1Charlotte, MI 48813517-258-2362

WIROSTEK LIGHTING6185 Round Lake Rd.Laingsburg, MI 48848517-285-5936

KALEO PROPERTY MANAGEMENT408 Kalamazoo PlazaLansing, MI 48933515-803-9695

MCDONALDS OF CEDAR ST.4700 S. Cedar St.Lansing, MI 48911517-393-5355

GOOD EATS DIVA1561-1B Haslett Rd.Haslett, MI 48840517-816-7980

THANK YOU RENEWING MEMBERS

CHAMBER MILESTONES

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

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!

Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce members have unparalleled access to their company and staff profiles on the LRCC website. To access and update this information at any point, visit lansingchamber.org and enter your username and password. If you have not yet logged into the site, please follow the simple password reset instructions. Call 517-487-6340 with any questions.

GIRL SCOUTS HEART OF MICHIGAN

30 years

GREAT LAKES CHRISTIAN

HOMES 25 years

AGATE SOFTWARE 20 years

PRINTWELL 10 years

PARADISE FUNERAL CHAPEL ADMINISTRATIVE

CENTER 5 years

Become a member of an award winning credit union that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Youth Club accounts for ages all the way up to 18

Debit and VISA cards are printed in branch

Free financial counseling for members and non-members

Mortgage and Auto loan options available

Free Checking accounts

Small Business Loan options

Visit us at www.casecu.org or stop in to one of our 7 branch

locations for more information!

Federally Insured by NCUA

Home and Auto Insurance

Student Scholarships


McLaren Greater Lansing is dedicated to providing both care and support for our community. As an active member of the community for more than 100 years, giving back is part of the culture the hospital has established and continues to cultivate.

Providing greater Lansing with greater care and greater service.

n Uncompensated Care - $36,167,061Uncompensated care from patients who do not request or qualify for assistance. (For the uninsured this refers to the portion of the bill that is unpaid. For patients with insurance this refers to gap between the amount the hospital receives for treatment and the actual cost of care.)

n Health Professions Education - $4,952,174Cost of McLaren Greater Lansing’s training programs which help educate and prepare future healthcare professionals, including physicians and nurses.

n Mental Health Endowment - $1,500,000In 2016 McLaren made a $1.5 million commitment to Michigan State University’s College of Nursing to establish their first endowed chair of nursing to help address the mental health needs of the community.

n Charity Care - $490,409Free or discounted care provided to individuals who are unable to pay for the services received.

n Community Partnership Support & Donations - $261,409Donations (cash and in-kind) made by McLaren Greater Lansing to organizations holding charitable activities and events that benefit the community.

n Community Programs - $129,306Amount contributed to fund or participate in events or programs that provide healthcare services or education to the community.

Serving Our Community

11.4%

1.1%0.3%

0.6%3.4%

$43.5Total in millions83.1%

• Offering Career & Technical Education programs to High School Juniors & Seniors

• Programs available in 17 pathways

• Students earn high school credit, college credit and state and national certifications

REGIONAL EDUCATION SERVICE AGENCYCAREER PREPARATION CENTER

#eatonengage www.eatonresa.org/CPC 517.483.9966

E X PLORE THE POS SIBILI T IE S.F A S T T R A C K Y O U R F U T U R E .


FOCUS ON SMALL BUSINESS

IF YOU’RE A SMALL BUSINESS OWNER who shudders when it comes to the bookkeeping aspects of your business, help has arrived!

New financial technology, called LAFCU Autobooks, is available to help you manage customer invoicing, vendor payments and bank reconciliation, all in one easy-to-use accounting system, online.

“The goal is to make invoicing and accounting easier so business owners have more time to run their business,” said Beth Gill, LAFCU assistant vice president. “Autobooks is ideal for businesses that invoice their customers, like attorneys, lawn care services, painters and property managers, to name a few.”

The new service enhances cash flow because invoices can be sent electronically, reaching customers sooner, and direct online transfers are one of the multiple options for accepting payments.

“Autobooks provides real-time balances of who’s paid and who’s past due as well as business income versus spending for the month or year. This allows business owners to make informed decisions 24/7.”

With LAFCU Autobooks, time-consuming bank reconciliation is not necessary – it’s done automatically.

Use of the software is free. There is a small processing fee of 1.99 percent on incoming customer payments, which is below typical charges for credit and debit card use, Gill says. The fee for payments via electronic funds transfers and checks is capped at $5 each.

Invoices are created using templates and can be sent electronically or printed and mailed. Payment reminders are sent automatically, and customers have the option of paying online or mailing payments.

Accounting Expertise Not Needed

“Compared to QuickBooks, LAFCU Autobooks is more streamlined and less technical, making it easier for business owners to manage in-house without relying on external resources,” Gill said. “The software also incorporates the capabilities of PayPal. It’s extremely user-friendly.”

The software is integrated with LAFCU business accounts, which are available to members of the mid-Michigan credit union. As a credit union, LAFCU is a member-owned, not-for-profit organization. Membership is open to individuals who live, work, worship or attend school in LAFCU’s 11 designated service counties.

“Our goal is superior member service and embracing state-of-the-art financial technology helps LAFCU create efficiencies and other benefits for members,” said Patrick Spyke, LAFCU CEO. “Our community is stronger when our businesses are stronger, and businesses are stronger when they get paid in a timely manner.”

For more information, visit www.LAFCU.com/business/autobooks, call 517-622-6600 or visit LAFCU branch offices in Charlotte, Corunna, DeWitt, Eaton Rapids, Mason, Owosso, South Lansing, St. Johns or West Lansing. n

New Financial Technology Helps Automate Accounting for Small Businesses

group

• Gain awareness through earned media • Stay top of mind with your target audience • Manage your reputation

What’s your plan?

517.203.3333www.m3group.biz

BRAND FORWARD WITH PUBLIC RELATIONS


FOCUS ON SMALL BUSINESS

BILLY JOEL, THE AWARD-WINNING SINGER AND SONGWRITER has made his talent known throughout the world. Though the world is full of thousands of fans, one fact that fans may not know about Joel is that his song “The Downeaster ‘Alexa’” gave inspiration to Kathryn Willis, 26, to help accomplish what she’s dreamed about doing her whole life - open a theater. And so, The Downeaster Theatre, located in Lansing was born.

Willis developed a relationship with theater at the young age of three and hasn’t stopped loving it since. It has always been this Grand Valley graduate’s dream to open a theater. It’s her noticeable amount of passion, for not only theater but for the arts, that have helped her work from the ground up to make the dream a reality.

“People go further, work harder, sacrifice more to do what they know and what they love,” said Willis.

Most of the tasks that it takes to run a successful theater are handled by Willis, though she is actively looking for more people to add to her team. While she handles the business tasks, she gets to handle the fun jobs as well, such as picking out the productions that are going to play from her theater.

One of Willis’ focuses is to immerse the younger generation into the culture of theater. One of her missions is in making sure that the art of theater doesn’t die.

Willis is devoted to making The Downeaster a haven to those that don’t necessarily fit in. Willis mentioned that both people young and old, need a place where they can feel safe, where they feel valued and where they feel wanted. She wants every person that walks into The Downeaster Theatre to feel like they are home.

Bringing together generations is also a great benefit for the Lansing community. No other theaters in Lansing focus on both a full-adult and a full-youth season, which The Downeaster does, making it unique to the Lansing community.

“This fosters an environment for mentors, being comfortable and feeling like the people around you, understand you,” said Willis.

Willis’ dreams don’t stop with The Downeaster Theatre. Willis has hopes of expanding The Downeaster’s current venue to a much larger space. She also has plans to create unique branches of The Downeaster Theatre, truly emphasizing the fact that theater is different from city to city.

“I’d like to branch out to other cities and do an exchange program with kids,” said Willis. “And have them do a weekend fieldtrip, like ’Oh this is how we do theater here. How do you do theater? Let’s see a show. Let’s talk about our differences and our similarities.’ From city to city. Whether it be from here to Grand Rapids or here to New Orleans or Milwaukee.”

With Willis’ passion and love for the arts, she is paving a way for a brilliant future for The Downeaster Theatre. n

The Downeaster TheatreBY SOPHIA CHARBONEAU, KOLT COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

LISTEN every MORNING

MORNING EDITION with BROOKE ALLENin mid-Michigan

Weekdays 5am - 9am

Stand with the Facts

Willis


FOCUS ON TALENT

CONSUMERS ENERGY has launched the Michigan Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) Academy – the first of its kind in the nation – to help Michigan businesses enhance their talent sources and hire better skilled workers to meet critical short and long-term employment needs.

“The difficulty of attracting, developing and retaining talent affects Consumers Energy and the businesses and communities we serve across the state, while posing a major obstacle to sustained economic growth and prosperity,” said Dan Malone, Consumers Energy’s senior vice president of engineering. “We want to ensure a bright future for our industry and businesses across the state, as well as those seeking good-paying jobs, now and in the future. Launching the Michigan Talent Pipeline Management Academy is a key component of our plan.”

The TPM academy, developed in collaboration with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, consists of:

• Twenty leaders and CEOs from Michigan organizations who work with business and industry will participate in the inaugural session

• Six days of training and webinars taken over six months• Academy graduates will go on to support businesses in their region by

applying the TPM methodology to address their hardest to fill job openings• A network of professionals promoting continuous improvement, sharing

effective strategies and improving business talent solutions

“Employers across the nation are waking up to the fact that they need a more sophisticated approach to managing their talent pipeline if they are going to

be successful in closing the skills gap,” said Jason Tyszko, executive director at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Center for Education and Workforce. “Michigan is leading this effort, where we are collaborating with Consumers Energy to launch our first ever state-based Talent Pipeline Management Academy.”

Bringing the TPM Academy to Michigan is one of the strategies of the Michigan Talent Architecture Coalition. The coalition, convened by Consumers Energy, is a group of more than 100 state leaders from industry, government, education, economic

development, labor and non-governmental organizations focused on improving the availability of a qualified talent pool in Michigan.

The TPM methodology was developed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, and provides training in the proven supply chain management methodology already used within many industries, but applies those focused principles to talent acquisition and development.

Consumers Energy successfully used the TPM methodology in 2015, when it identified a clear need for skilled electric and gas lines worker positions. The company projected its demands, identified competencies and expanded training partnerships with preferred providers for electric line workers and a veteran-specific training program in conjunction with its union that resulted in 100 qualified hires over two years.

For more information on the TPM Academy, visit www.consumersenergy.com/ mitalentarchitecture or call 248-433-5948. n

THE SUMMER BEFORE MY JUNIOR YEAR at Michigan State University was focused on gaining real-world experience in the Capital City. I had the opportunity to see the professional marketing and communications world from two different perspectives as an intern at the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) and the College of Communication Arts and Sciences (ComArtSci) at MSU.

At the Chamber, I was able to see how their mission to help Greater Lansing businesses connect, grow and succeed came to life each and every day. It was exciting to learn about the new investments, developments and upcoming areas, including REO Town and the Michigan Avenue corridor.

Throughout the summer, I was involved in several big-picture projects that propelled the success of LRCC members and the community. We discussed how to better promote events on social media and how to create an overarching plan for social media that would serve as a guideline for the future. I also had the chance to take the lead on a project looking at Google

Analytics data for the Chamber’s website. I picked out key variables to measure and created an easy-to-read report that serves as a fluid document for measuring LRCC’s website analytics data well into the future.

At ComArtSci, I spent my summer learning basic search-engine optimization (SEO) tools and tactics as the college prepared to launch its new website. I learned how content strategy, social media and branding came together to create a complete picture to guide the vision of the future. Seeing how far we have come with our communication strategy in a few short years was incredibly inspiring and has engrained in me the importance of creativity.

The two experiences served to help me gain professional, hands-on skills in a field that I am passionate about, as well as further connecting me to MSU and the Lansing community. Most of all, I take with me the knowledge that anything you do in business, from SEO to social media promotion, is based on the audience you serve. By keeping our members and our fellow MSU faculty, staff and students top-of-mind, we never strayed from our vision of better serving them. I am excited to further explore the field of digital marketing as an SEO Associate at Netvantage Marketing.

I hope to continue to develop my personal and professional growth in the Greater Lansing region! n

Consumers Energy Launches Statewide Talent Pipeline Management Academy

A World of Experience in Lansing BY RIANNA MIDDLETON

Middleton


THE EATON REGIONAL EDUCATION SERVICE AGENCY (RESA) Career Preparation Center offers career and technical education programs to students in grades 11-12. Every day, over 600 students from five Eaton County high schools (Charlotte, Eaton Rapids, Grand Ledge, Maple Valley and Potterville) along with many other districts attend career preparation programs in 17 different areas: Animal Science/Zoo Management, Auto Technology, Business Academy, Computer Security, Criminal Justice, Digital Media & Design, Fashion Design, Game Design & Programming, Health Technology, Heavy Equipment Operation, Heavy Equipment Diesel Repair, Insurance/Risk Management, Law Enforcement, Medical Assisting, Precision Machining & Design, Sports Medicine, and Welding. The Career Preparation Center is located on the campus of Lansing Community College. In addition, several other partnerships and program locations are also available at Farm Bureau Insurance, Potter Park Zoo, AIS Construction and Davenport University. The unique business partnerships that Eaton RESA has developed over the years have provided incredible educational experiences for high school students. We would like to highlight two employers: AIS Construction and Farm Bureau Insurance.

Heavy Equipment Repair and Heavy Equipment Operation

Students that attend the Heavy Equipment Repair and Heavy Equipment Operation programs are on-site at the multi-million-dollar facility and are exposed to state-of-the-art technology applied learning and problem solving within the field. Each program offers students the opportunity to learn skills to operate, repair and service heavy equipment machinery. Tasks and skills learned within the Heavy Equipment Repair program include diesel engine diagnosis and repair, basic electricity and electronics, fundamentals of hydraulics, powertrains, disassembling and reassembling transmissions and axles and applying all the course content to the latest technology.

Students in the Heavy Equipment Operation program learn to operate many

pieces of heavy equipment including excavators, bulldozers, front-end loaders, backhoes, forklifts and semis as well as an introduction to earthmovers. In addition to operating equipment, students have the opportunity to receive nine industry certifications in areas including Heavy Equipment Safety, Basic Safety, Orientation to the Trade, Identification of Heavy Equipment, Basic Operational Techniques, Trucks, Grades: Part One, Earthmoving and Below Grade Construction. Upon completion of either program, students are highly employable and frequently receive multiple job offers.

Insurance and Risk Management

In 2011, Eaton RESA, Olivet College and Farm Bureau Insurance began a new partnership designed to introduce local area high school students to careers within the insurance industry. Farm Bureau Insurance was excited to host this unique, first of its kind Insurance and Risk Management program.

The Insurance and Risk Management program offers students the opportunity to shadow current industry professionals, work as a summer intern and see the world of insurance from an application perspective. The program allows the students to earn direct credit from Olivet College while attending high school. After successful completion of the program, students may go on to attend Olivet College or other colleges and are qualified for entry-level careers within the insurance industry. Additionally, the students have an opportunity to be a part of DECA, a competitive business club for students, and compete against other high school students. Many former students from the program work for Farm Bureau or are employed elsewhere in the insurance industry.

For additional information about these programs or to get involved, please visit www.eatonresa.org or call 517-483-9966. n

MaryEllen Brocklehurst and Marcee Theisen are Student Services Coordinators at Eaton RESA.

FOCUS ON TALENT

LANSING REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE executive vice president and chief marketing officer, Kristin Beltzer, has been selected to participate in Consumers Energy and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s inaugural Michigan Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) Academy. Beltzer joins 19 other leaders from industry, government, education, economic development, labor and non-governmental organizations.

“Attracting talent is the number one issue that we continue to hear from the business community. We know many good and well-paying job opportunities exist throughout our region, but employers are telling us that finding people with the right combination of education background, skills, training and willingness to learn is a major challenge,” said Beltzer.

“We are looking at ways in which the Chamber can help bridge the current divide that exists between our employers and prospective employees. When we are successful, employers will have access to the talented people they need to grow, and workers and their families will have what they need to sustain themselves and enjoy all that this region has to offer.”

Graduates from the TPM will work with businesses from their respective regions to assess talent needs and collaborate to find solutions to close the talent gap. n

Students Gain Real World Experiences Through Career Preparation Center Programs offered by Eaton RESA BY MARYELLEN BROCKLEHURST AND MARCEE THEISEN

Beltzer Selected to Participate in Talent Pipeline Management Academy

Beltzer


NOW IN ITS FIFTH YEAR, Michigan Manufacturing Day serves as a platform to expose Mid-Michigan students to careers in the manufacturing industry. On October 6, K-12 students from more than 20 schools visited and engaged with leaders in the manufacturing industry about the diverse and innovative opportunities in fields such as green energy, modern robotics, biotechnology, engineering and many more. A special thanks to Michelle Cordano with the Capital Area Manufacturing Council for her vision and leadership in developing, executing and growing this initiative into what it is today!

Manufacturing Day Opens Eyes and Career Pathways

My name is Schyanne Roberts and I grew up as the oldest child of three. Growing up, I lived in many different towns in my lifetime. I dropped out of school approximately three years ago and have since been a single mom trying to earn my GED. I have a one-year old son and he’s the love of my life. I was a young lady that got pregnant at the age of eighteen and had him at nineteen. I began working on my GED a year ago and have passed my math test.

When I was invited to go on the Manufacturing Day visits to Capital Steel and Wire and the Lansing Community College (LCC) West Campus, I wasn’t sure I wanted to go. I thought it was more of a man’s career, but my friends in class encouraged me to go. I was able to see and try many manufacturing projects such as wire welding and some robotics work at LCC. I tried to really involve myself in wire welding because a few of my family members are welders. I was able to perform a wire weld of my choice on a metal square and I chose to weld my son’s name, Braxton. I never thought in my lifetime that I’d ever have the capability of doing something like this. My grandpa, who is a retired welder, inspired me as a young girl growing up. Unfortunately, we are no longer as close as we once were. Once I knew I was going to do welding, I put it on Facebook as I wanted to show him my work, hoping

to get his feedback. That next day, he had written on the picture I posted telling me how well I did.

Manufacturing Day made me realize that the manufacturing industry isn’t about what gender you are. What matters are the skills and abilities you bring to your career. I was so excited to show my work to everyone that day. I’m grateful I was able to attend the trip. I also want to thank the manufacturing team at Capital Steel and Wire and Lansing Community College West Campus for giving us this wonderful experience. n

Schyanne plans to finish her GED this spring and graduate in May 2018. Her future plans include exploring careers in robotics, welding and office management.

2017 Manufacturing Day by the Numbers

FOCUS ON TALENT

“There are many wonderful job opportunities within the manufacturing industry that can easily become long-term financially successful careers! It is important that one of the ways we give back as an industry is by educating students, teachers, counselors and parents on the many available manufacturing careers and how they contribute to our everyday lives. We look forward to continuing to support these types of initiatives and helping to build our workforce.”

— KELLY PRESTON, PRESIDENT, CAPITAL STEEL & WIRE, INC.

1,100+ K-12 STUDENTS21 SCHOOLS24 MANUFACTURERS27 BUSSES49 TOURS

BY THE NUMBERS

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SINCE 1962, THE MARTIN FAMILY has been known for commercial real estate in the Lansing area. The company was founded by William G. Martin and is now known as CBRE|Martin, Lansing’s leading commercial real estate company. This year, CBRE|Martin is pleased to be celebrating 55 years of business and being actively involved in the Greater Lansing area.

Today, the company is run by Van Martin who oversees an operation of 70 or more staff split across Lansing and Grand Rapids. As an affiliate of CBRE, the world’s No. 1 commercial real estate firm, the two combined operations conduct commercial real estate transactions across the state, country and globe. The company manages over 8 million square feet of space. Their variety of services include property sales and leasing, corporate

services, project management, investment services, research, consulting and development.

“Always, our firm has been driven by hard work, providing an honest, straightforward assessment of our client’s needs,” says Chairman and CEO, Van W. Martin. “It’s a business culture fostered through family, friendships, and business relationships built on mutual goals and respect. Over the years, we think it’s a

blueprint that’s worked.”

In celebration, CBRE|Martin dedicated their annual newsletter, News and Views, to recognize their clients, staff, friends and family for an outstanding 55 years. n

FORSBERG REAL ESTATE COMPANY celebrated its 60th anniversary in October with food and cake at its headquarters in Okemos.

Through the years, Forsberg has worked to provide impeccable environments for both businesses and residents that aim to create the foundation for a prosperous community. President Brent Forsberg is no stranger to the real estate industry, having been active in land development and new construction sales for more than 18 years. His experience expands to both residential and commercial real estate. Brent has led the sales teams of several large residential developments in the greater Lansing area and was involved in the startup of Forsberg Real Estate Company.

Outside of his work for Forsberg, Brent extends his expertise to other industry professionals as an active member of the National Home Builders Association where he served on the board of the Sales and Marketing Council and taught at the International Builders Show on sales, marketing approaches and market research. He is a former member of the Mason Area Chamber of Commerce

Board and currently serves on its Economic Development Committee.

Forsberg’s focus on being a driving force in the community begins with Brent. As an active philanthropist, Brent shares his goodwill with the Lansing area by working alongside the March of Dimes, Support the Troops, Habitat for Humanity Capital Region and others that better the lives of Mid-Michigan residents. n

MEMBER NEWS

Celebrating 55 Years – CBRE|Martin Looks Back

Forsberg Real Estate Company Marks 60th Anniversary

Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce2018 Annual DinnerTuesday, February 27, 20185:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.Kellogg Hotel and Conference CenterTickets and Sponsorship: Contact Travis Richardson at 517-853-6463 or [email protected]

Registration: www.lansingchamber.org


LIKE ANY GOOD EXECUTIVE, April Clobes must keep a close eye on the metrics that gauge the success of her organization. The metrics she oversees as CEO at MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) since 2015 are most impressive. MSUFCU has grown to one of the largest university-based credit unions in the country with an asset base exceeding $3.76 billion and more than 248,000 members worldwide. With 810 employees and adding between 150 and 200 annually, MSFCU is growing so rapidly that it just opened an 184,000-square-foot expansion at its headquarters campus in East Lansing.

As impressive as the metrics are for MSUFCU, what sets Clobes apart as a leader is her wholehearted commitment to building an environment that brings out the best in others, especially MSUFCU employees, other professional women and the Greater Lansing community. Her roles as a successful business and community leader, and her commitment to mentoring and developing others led to April’s selection as the 2017 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient by the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce.

“April is a passionate leader who truly lives the mission of the credit union by helping members and employees achieve their goals and dreams,” said Bill Beekman, MSUFCU’s Chairman of the Board. “The fact that employees recognize her commitment to creating a positive environment in the workplace and community speaks volumes about her exceptional leadership.”

Clobes, who is well known for her exceptional work ethic is a self-described introvert who doesn’t seek recognition. Her initial thoughts upon learning she was selected for the ATHENA award were to thank those who nominated her.

“I was surprised and very humbled by the recognition from the community,” said Clobes. “I appreciate that several people I admire like Jack Davis, and Mark and Nancy Hollis thought enough of my work in the community to nominate me.”

Clobes is regarded by those with whom she works as a “nurturer of talent” who encourages the best from her employees and seeks to match their work responsibilities with their passions and abilities.

“If I have an opportunity to work on any new project, I try to pull together the people who will be excited to work on it and assign the parts of the project to people who can do them best,” said Clobes.

By creating an environment where people want to come to work, MSUFCU annually achieves some of the highest employee engagement scores in the nation. The company offers very robust benefits packages, including 401K plans with a two-to-one company match, 100 percent paid healthcare premiums, tuition reimbursement, competitive wages and regular salary increases even during down financial times.

Equally important. according to Clobes. is a commitment to nurturing the career path of each employee, including well developed training opportunities and internal promotions. Managers meet with employees every two weeks to review career progress and there are separate career and goal coaching programs.

“Employees are engaged because they know the management team is invested in their long-term success,” said Clobes.

A commitment to transparency and communication also enhance engagement at MSUFCU. Clobes will meet personally with any employee and is known to send hand-written notes thanking team members for their hard work. Clobes has a blog in which she answers questions from employees who want to understand why certain things have occurred within the organization. One employee recently praised Clobes for being thorough, transparent and for showing care and consideration in her answers.

A P R I L C L O B E S 2017 ATHENA LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT

April Clobes meets personally with employees who have issues they wish to discuss and mentors women from young professionals to executives seeking to move up in the business world.


“To me that is the best answer I can give as to why people like to work here,” said Clobes. “We really do work at creating an environment where people have access to ask those types of questions and give feedback.”

One of the major reasons that Clobes says people like to work at MSUFCU (the company regularly receives more than 100 applications for every job posting), is the reputation the credit union has for being engaged in the community. Employees enjoy opportunities to serve as volunteers in any one of numerous community projects and boards.

“People want to work here because of our commitment to the community,” said Clobes.

“People appreciate that we do a lot of volunteerism in the community. They see that we are philanthropic in our efforts to lift up other organizations.”

Clobes “walks the walk” when it comes to her personal involvement in the community and when she works with an organization, she tends to emerge in leadership positions. She will serve as 2018 Chair of the Board of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. She is a member of the Executive Committee of the Lansing Economic Area Partnership and Chair of the Wharton Center Advisory Board. She also serves on the boards of the Lansing Symphony Orchestra, MSU College of Music National Leadership Council, Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum International Advisory Board, MSU College of Business Alumni Board and Oakland University’s Campaign Steering Committee.

“It is important to demonstrate leadership both in my organization and in the community,” said Clobes. “There are never enough people to fulfill all the roles that are needed. We all have an obligation to help the community thrive and survive.”

“It is what April does beyond the boundaries of her role with MSUFCU that is so impressive,” said MSU Athletic Director Mark Hollis. “Without fanfare, she has an impact on so many people and thrives on watching the success of others. It does not matter if it is at the arts, sporting events, community fundraising activities or business engagement, April is always making a positive impact.”

Clobes is a role model for other aspiring professional women. She serves as a mentor to MSU students, often speaking to MSU classes and student groups. Clobes has mentored several women who are excelling in senior management roles at MSUFCU. She has found that young women, in particular, struggle with confidence. She encourages them to work at telling their story.

“Women in general need more guidance at getting comfortable promoting themselves,” said Clobes.

MSU Provost and past ATHENA recipient June Pierce Youatt offers high praise for April Clobes for her role in business and the community, especially for her work in supporting other women in the community.

“We have many impressive women in our community - women who are personally successful, who nurture others, who mentor the next generation. We have many caring women in our community - women who are personally giving, who care for their employees and those with whom they interact. We have many generous women in our community - women who give regularly of their time and resources, who lend their expertise and skills to the community organizations and educational institutions. There is no other woman in our community whose combination of success, caring and generosity makes them more deserving of the ATHENA Award,” said Youatt.

Many prestigious recognitions have been awarded to MSFCU during Clobes tenure as CEO. In 2016, MSUFCU was recognized as one of Fortune’s 50 Best Workplaces for New College Grads, as well as the #1 Top Workplace in the large employer category on the Detroit Free Press Top Workplaces list. In 2016 and 2017, MSUFCU was selected as one of the nation’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For®. MSUFCU was recognized as fifth in the nation for its financial education program by the National Youth Involvement Board and also received the Celebration of

“It is what April does beyond the boundaries of her role with MSUFCU that is so impressive. Without fanfare, she has an impact on so many people and thrives on watching the success of others. It does not matter if it is at the arts, sporting events, community fundraising activities or business engagement, April is always making a positive impact.”

MSUFCU has grown so rapidly, that the company opened its second building on its main East Lansing campus, just eight years after the initial headquarters was opened.

CONGRATULATIONS ATHENA LEADERSHIP AWARD NOMINEESFourteen women business leaders were nominated for the Chamber’s 2017 ATHENA Leadership Award. Thank you for your commitment to our region and empowering the leaders of tomorrow. This year’s nominees showcase the strong and diverse leadership we have in our region:

• Christine Tenaglia• Deb Muchmore• Dianne Byrum• Dorothy E. Maxwell• Jill Marlan• Karen Grannemann• Lisa Lemanski

• Lorri Rishar• Micaela Balzer• Renee Branch Canady• Suzy Merchant• Tammy Hannah• Yvonne Caamal Canul


Regional Growth award from the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce.

When asked what gives her the greatest professional satisfaction, Clobes, not surprisingly responded: “Happy employees and happy members - that’s what we are here for. We are here to ensure that members have a great experience and we are here to ensure that employees have a great experience while doing that work.”

Consistent growth, impressive metrics, shiny new buildings and prestigious awards don’t just happen. In April Clobes’ world, they are the result of a determined commitment to bring out the best in others, a culture that emphasizes the importance of serving and to building a stronger, more vibrant community. It is a formula you might call award-winning. n

Among numerous awards MSUFCU has received was being named the number one employer in the large employer category on the 2016 Top Workplaces list by the Detroit Free Press.

APRIL CLOBES: 2017 ATHENA LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT

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YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS. One of the many perks of Chamber membership is marketing your brand to consumers, business leaders and decision makers through LRCC publications and advertising opportunities.

FOCUS Magazine

• One of Lansing’s premiere business publications that reaches more than 4,000 Greater Lansing business leaders through print, online and regional distribution

• Action-packed content dedicated to our members and the business community

• Showcased on the Chamber’s website, FOCUS attracts an average of 4,500 unique page visits per month

E-Chamber Connect

• Market your business with our monthly email publication that reaches more than 3,000 Chamber members, employees and decision makers

• Get noticed! Average open rate of 48 percent with an average click-through rate of 11 percent

• Feature your company’s services, products, events and more

Lansing Marketplace

• Our online marketplace is the go-to spot to showcase your business and services

• Perfect opportunity to get in front of thousands of Mid-Michigan consumers

• Premier opportunity to reach Chamber members with exclusive advertising options

• Enhance your visibility and strengthen your SEO

Take advantage of these exclusive member-only advertising and marketing opportunities. Contact Eric Dimoff, Director of Marketing and Communications, at 517-853-6460 or [email protected]. n

Start 2018 Strong: Maximize Your Membership with Chamber Marketing Advantages

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EXPANDED MARKETING WITH YOUR CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP GETS RESULTS!

3 FOCUS attracts an average of 4,500 unique page visits per month

3 E-Chamber Connect reaches more than 3,000 Chamber members, employees and decision makers

3 E-Chamber Connect has an average open rate of 48 percent with an average click-through rate of 11 percent

3 Enhanced visibility and strengthened SEO with Lansing Marketplace

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#LOVELANSING

MCLAREN GREATER LANSING AND THE MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY (MSU) College of Nursing are working together to break down the single greatest barrier to mental health care services — access to providers.

Last year, McLaren Greater Lansing made a $1.5 million gift to MSU to establish the Endowed Chair for Behavioral Mental Health Nursing Education, the College of Nursing’s first endowed chair position.

The Endowed Chair for Behavioral Mental Health Nursing Education position establishes a partnership with the MSU College of Nursing and McLaren Greater Lansing and aims to increase access to and improve mental and behavioral health in the community.

“McLaren and MSU have a legacy of partnering to improve health care services, advance research, and train future care givers, and this endowment brings us closer together to address the mental health care needs of Michigan and beyond,” said Tom Mee, president and CEO at McLaren Greater Lansing. “This commitment is much more than an investment in an endowment; this is a commitment to collectively work together to break down the greatest barrier to mental health care services – access to providers.”

The Endowed Chair for Behavioral Mental Health Nursing Education supports the development of nursing competencies in this priority area related to evidence-based care and improved patient outcomes among undergraduate and graduate students, as well as McLaren nursing staff.

Endowed chair and professorship positions provide top scholars with stable support to actively engage in leading-edge work. The support from an endowment provides a dependable, perpetual source of funding to sustain the position, as well as the ability to conduct research and scholarship as new opportunities arise.

“The endowed chair bridges MSU faculty and students with the McLaren Greater Lansing nursing team by improving mental health in the community,” said Dean Randolph Rasch. “Together, we work on the frontlines with patients, addressing the ongoing education needs of nurses, developing their behavioral health nursing skills and building a healthier community.”

As the one-year anniversary of the endowment passes, McLaren Greater Lansing and MSU College of Nursing reflect on the work done so far and look forward to continuing to improve access to mental health care services. n

Update: McLaren and MSU Working to Address Mental Health Crisis

Tom Mee, MBA, BSN, RN, President and CEO of McLaren Greater Lansing, and Randolph Rasch, PhD, RN, FNP, FAANP, dean for MSU’s College of Nursing, pose together in 2016 after McLaren announced it would fund the $1.5 million endowment.

Members of the nursing and mental health communities hold up signs thanking McLaren Greater Lansing and MSU for their partnership to address the area’s mental health needs with the $1.5 million endowment.


THE MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF CHAMBER PROFESSIONALS (MACP) named the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) as a finalist for the 2017 Outstanding Chamber of the Year Award at the MACP’s annual Chamber Convention in October.

The Outstanding Chamber of the Year Award recognizes organizational excellence in chambers of commerce and provides a unique benchmarking opportunity to assess a chamber’s strengths. The award is based on the U.S. Chamber of Commerce accreditation process for local chambers and highlights accomplishments in the areas of leadership, governance, finance, advocacy and membership development.

“We are proud to be a community partner dedicated to helping employers and businesses grow by providing business education and networking opportunities, enhancing member visibility and advocating for public policy that supports economic growth and vitality,” said Deb Muchmore, LRCC Board Chair.

“We boldly embrace our regional leadership role and make it our top priority to support our members and promote programs and initiatives that encourage economic growth and job creation in the Greater Lansing region.”

LRCC has been helping Mid-Michigan businesses connect, grow and succeed for more than 110 years.

“The success of our members is our business. The Chamber team works relentlessly to deliver value and provide the tools and resources to help our members grow and thrive,” said Michelle Rahl, Director of Business Development. “Whether it is making invaluable community and business connections, delivering cost-saving membership benefits and professional development opportunities, or being a part of public policy discussions that impact our region, the Chamber strives to address the needs of each of our more than 1,100 members.”

2016 HIGHLIGHTS

Membership• Total Membership: 1,100• Membership Retention: 93 percent (Top 10 percent nationally)• New Members Added: 183• Ribbon Cuttings and Ground-Breaking Events: 45

Marketing and Communications• Website Hits: 121,472• Facebook Followers: 3,408 (29 percent increase in 2016)• Instagram Followers: 552 (Launched in 2016)• LinkedIn Followers: 744• Twitter Followers: 9,222 (15 percent increase in 2016)

Events and Programs• Events: 60• Networking Connections: 8,000

Advocacy• Transforming Michigan Avenue: The Chamber led a public campaign

to convince the City of Lansing to repave Michigan Avenue from Pennsylvania Avenue to U.S. 127.

• Expanding Air Service and Connectivity: The Chamber took an active leadership role in a public campaign aimed at convincing the U.S. Department of Transportation to grant a petition by American Airlines to launch direct air service from Capital Region International Airport to Washington DCA and Chicago O’Hare. The petition was granted. American Airlines launched its new service in July 2016.

• Empowering the Next Generation: LRCC supported passage of the Lansing School District’s $120 million bond proposal known as the Lansing Pathway Promise. This bond program will significantly enhance the learning environment through upgrades to school facilities, and just as importantly, align curriculum in a manner that will better prepare students to succeed in the global economy. n

LRCC Recognized for Chamber Excellence NAMED FINALIST FOR 2017 OUTSTANDING CHAMBER OF THE YEAR

CHAMBER NEWS


WHEN DANTON COLE was a star hockey player at Michigan State University, the Spartans won the NCAA National Championship - one of three national titles the program has celebrated through the years. Now in his first year as head hockey coach at MSU, Cole aims to take his Spartans back to the top of the college hockey world and eventually celebrate the fourth national title.

Cole admitted to the October Lansing Economic Club crowd that rebuilding the proud Spartan hockey tradition will require identifying, recruiting and signing elite talent. He also wants to make Munn Arena a regular sold-out venue that is a tough place for visiting opponents to win, as it was during his playing days. He is hopeful that a campaign to raise funds for Munn’s renovations will help achieve that goal.

“The capital campaign on campus is going well,” said Cole. “It is going to get done.”

Cole drew several parallels between how he plans

to build a great team and running a successful business. He stressed the importance of strong character, discipline, emphasizing the basics, clearly defined roles and treating everyone with respect. He says the hockey program faces challenges but is laying the foundations for success.

“We want to be in the business of winning,” said Cole. “That commitment to excellence has to be in place.” n

NOW IS A GREAT TIME to reserve your table for the 2018 Lansing Economic Club series. Several speakers for the coming year have already been confirmed in what is shaping up to be an outstanding year. The speaker roster for the first half of 2018 includes:

January 23, 2018Speaker: Dr. Thomas J. Holt, School of Criminal Justice, Michigan State University

February 15, 2018Speaker: Glenn Stevens, Vice President of Automotive and Mobility Initiatives, Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce and Executive Director, MICHauto

March 15, 2018Speaker: Mayoral Forum

April 12, 2018Speaker: Patti Poppe, President and CEO, Consumers Energy

May 3, 2018Speaker: Mike & Denise Busley, Owners, Grand Traverse Pie Company

To reserve your Lansing Economic Club season tickets or for sponsorship information, contact Travis Richardson at [email protected] or 517-853-6463. n

MSU Hockey Coach Aims to Put Spartans Back on Top

2018 Preview

ECONOMIC CLUB

Five organizations were honored for their investments in the region at the 12th annual Celebration of Regional Growth Awards, held at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center on November 16, 2017. This year’s recipients were Eaton Rapids Medical Center, Gillespie Company, Lorann Oils, Pratt & Whitney and Spartan Motors. Recipients pictured, l-r: John Grettenberger Jr. (LorAnn Oils), Matt Fosburg (Pratt Whitney), Rob McCune (Pratt Whitney), Jeffrey Smith(Pratt Whitney), Steve Guillaume (Spartan Motors), Scott Gillespie (Gillespie Company), Lindsey Peters (Eaton Rapids Medical Center), Shari Glynn (Eaton Rapids Medical Center) and Kristine Allen (Eaton Rapids Medical Center).

Transformational Investments Recognized at Celebration of Regional Growth


The Chamber was pleased to host a ribbon cutting ceremony for The Recovery Project, an industry-leading rehabilitation practice that provides aggressive, focused and effective rehabilitation to people with spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, neurological disorders and other conditions. Their new practice, located at 3960 Patient Care Drive, Suite 117 in Lansing, provides hope and life-changing results for their clients and support networks through combining highly trained and compassionate staff, advanced evidence-based techniques and specialized state-of-the-art equipment. Recently recognized as a Crain’s Detroit Business Cool Places to Work 2017, The Recovery Project has only lost six employees in 14 years. Cutting the ribbon is Charles Parkhill, innovative spinal cord patient and co-founder with therapist Polly Single.

Gleaner Financial®, an independent subsidiary of Gleaner Life Insurance Society, recently opened a branch office in Okemos. Building on over 120 years of success as a faith-based organization, the Gleaner Financial® mission is to provide fee-based comprehensive financial planning with transparency, trust and confidence. From investing with the strongest companies in the financial industry to ongoing support and advice, Gleaner Financial® sets clients on the path to financial independence. Financial planner Aric Carpenter and the Okemos office staff look forward to helping people in Lansing and the surrounding area meet their financial goals*.

*Advisory Services are offered through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser,

and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA &

SIPC. The CFD Companies are independent of and not affiliated with Gleaner Financial or any of its

affiliates.

Congratulations to Joel Proietti and the team at Eaton Federal Savings Bank on their new office in Delta Township, located at 6334 W. Saginaw Highway, Suite F, in Lansing. Eaton Federal is proud of their long, storied history as a community bank and serves their communities by helping individuals, business and service organizations reach their financial goals. Eaton Federal aims to create prosperous communities in which residents can fulfill their financial, social, educational and cultural aspirations. Cutting the ribbon is Tim Jewell, Eaton Federal Saving Bank President, and he is joined by other staff members, friends and business associates.

On November 3, the Chamber was pleased to host a ribbon cutting ceremony for the team at Stevens, Kirinovic & Tucker P.C., located at 3511 Coolidge Road, Suite 100 in East Lansing. SKT performs audit and accounting services throughout Michigan with two office locations, East Lansing and Grand Rapids. The firm specializes in providing service to governmental and nonprofit entities and serves approximately 60 nonprofit organizations and more than 180 governmental entities throughout the State. Focusing on governmental and nonprofit entities allows SKT the luxury of being able to place their full attention on the latest changes and discussions that effect these groups and prepares them for the future. Cutting the ribbon are the SKT partners including William I. Tucker IV, CPA (holding scissors), Aaron M. Stevens, CPA (center left) and Steven Kirinovic, CPA (center right).

CHAMBER IN ACTION


PEOPLE NEWS

Joe Bentschneider, P.E. joined leading national architect and engineering firm, Bergmann Associates as a discipline specialist for the Midwest Infrastructure team in Lansing, MI. Bentschneider comes to Bergmann from Kennedy Consulting Inc., where he was a project engineer/deputy project manager in Austin, TX.

Fraser Trebilcock attorney Brian T. Gallagher was recently elected to serve on the Taxation Section Council of the State Bar of Michigan. The Council governs the Taxation Section of the State Bar of Michigan and oversees several committees relating to the practice of tax law, including

the Employee Benefits Committee where Gallagher previously served as Chair.

Andrea Calabrese and Jaynaya Barlow recently joined the Child and Family Charities team. Calabrese will serve as the new chief operations officer and Barlow as the director of the juvenile justice division. A lifelong resident of Michigan, Barlow graduated from Eastern Michigan University and holds a master’s degree in social work. Calabrese, a Michigan native, earned her doctorate in social work from Rutgers University School of Social Work.

Dewpoint, a leading provider of technology

consulting and implementation solutions, is pleased to welcome several new employees to Lansing and Grand Rapids: Will Cicola, Amber-Lynn Harger, Lenny Robinson, Cameron Reyes, Julie Daniels, Cheryl Granger and Connie Mead.

On October 13, 2017, at Lansing’s Crowne Plaza West, Fraser Trebilcock Shareholder Marlaine C. Teahan hosted the Annual Chair’s Dinner for the officers, council members, liaisons, and ex-officios of the Probate and Estate Planning Section of the State Bar of Michigan. The dinner

recognizes the outgoing Chair, James B. Steward, and welcomes in Marlaine as the new Chair. The Probate and Estate Planning Section works to enhance and improve the practice and administration of law pertaining to probate, trust and estate planning and

administration, guardianships and conservatorships, and tax planning. As Chair of the Council, Marlaine will lead the Probate & Estate Planning Section, which includes 3400 attorneys.

Mason Middle School English teacher Kristine Brickey has been named the Michigan Council of Teachers of English Middle School Teacher of the Year for 2017. Ms. Brickey has been with Mason Public Schools since 1988, working with

elementary and middle school students in English, math and social studies throughout her career.

Foster Swift attorney Katila Howard is one of the five recipients for the “Five Under Ten” Young Alumni Recognition Award for the 2017 Black Alumni Association of the University of Michigan (UMBA) awards gala. The award is given annually to five

recent University of Michigan graduates who are recognized by their peers for achievements in their respective professional fields and contributions in the community. To be eligible, the alums must have received an undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan within the last ten years.

Doctor’s Approach would like to welcome back physician assistant Stacey Olivier PA-C to our office. Stacey previously worked for Doctor’s Approach a few years back and moved out of the state. She recently moved back to the area and they are excited that she is back working with them. Stacey sees all general dermatology concerns, acne,

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rashes, rosacea, hair loss and more. Stacey is now accepting patients.

Arika Button, PT, DPT, CBIS, physical therapist at Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center, completed specialized training in serial casting for the upper and lower extremities for neurological injuries and conditions. Origami is the only location offering serial casting for

adults in Mid-Michigan.

Bradley Sherrill, director of the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory and scientific director at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams at Michigan State University, was awarded the 2018 Tom W. Bonner Prize in Nuclear Physics from the American Physical Society. Sherrill

received the award due to his scientific leadership in the development and utilization of instruments and techniques for discovery and exploration of exotic nuclei and for his community leadership in explaining the physics of rare isotope beams and advancing the realization of the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams, under construction now at MSU.

Garnet Johnson joins Triterra as director of remediation services and will operate from the firm’s Alma, Michigan office. Garnet’s work at Triterra will focus on managing Triterra’s Investigation and Remediation services group, which will include overseeing investigation and remediation

projects, managing subcontractors, evaluating innovative and cost-effective remedial strategies, mentoring staff, and attracting new clients.

A pair of Michigan State University students delivered hundreds of home-made Halloween cards to be distributed at Sparrow for those who weren’t

out of the hospital in time for trick-or-treating. Tyler Logan, 22, of Pontiac, and Yamani Vinson, 20, of Grand Rapids, were overwhelmed with the outpouring they received throughout the campus over just a couple weeks. Vinson first came up with the idea of making cards for hospitalized children and Logan reached out to the Sparrow Foundation to gauge interest. The concept grew from them creating their own cards to involving several MSU-related organizations, such as the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, the Black Student Alliance, and Logan’s own grad school classes. By the time they were dropped off to the Foundation on Friday, there were at least 275 hand-made cards of varying designs and creativity.

Jacob Fielder joins Triterra as a geologist. Jacob’s work at Triterra focuses on environmental due diligence, including Phase I & II Environmental Site Assessments, Baseline Environmental Assess-ments, and Due Care Evaluations. He is responsible for gathering and evaluating historical and

environmental records to determine the potential for contamination on the properties of interest.

Four members of the Okemos-based law firm of Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC, were selected for inclusion in the 2017 Michigan Super Lawyers publication. The attorneys included are William K. Fahey, State, Local & Municipal Law (2007–2017); Stephen O. Schultz, Employment & Labor Law (2007–2017); Mark J. Burzych, Franchise/Dealership Law (2007–2017); and Stephen J. Rhodes, Energy & Natural Resources Law (2017). In addition, Ross K. Bower II was selected for inclusion in the 2017 Michigan Rising Stars list in State, Local & Municipal Law (2010–2017).

COMPANY NEWS

Independent Bank closed its offices on Columbus Day, October 9, 2017, to participate in its second annual all-employee volunteer day. Independent Bank’s employees took part in “Making A Difference

Day,” where they volunteered in teams across the state. Employees selected from a variety of organizations and non-profits throughout their local communities to give back for the day. Taking part in volunteer activities, ranging from working on a house in Grand Rapids for Habitat For Humanity of Kent County to decorating the Saginaw Children’s Zoo for Halloween and cleaning up cemeteries in Newaygo and Bay City. The Independent Bank teams throughout Michigan and parts of Ohio definitely made a positive difference in their communities.

The week of October 9, in partnership with Heartwood School, one Mason High School classroom participated in Buddy Day. Buddy Day is a program in which Mason High School students ‘buddy-up’ with Heartwood students to learn and interact within a friendly environment. Heartwood School, serves students in the Ingham ISD service area with moderate to severe cognitive impairments, severe multiple impairments and autism spectrum disorder.

It takes the hard work of each and every employee at MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) to deliver the outstanding service our members deserve. MSUFCU offers a supportive and equitable place to build a career and are extraordinarily proud to announce that Great Place to Work and FORTUNE have named MSUFCU one of the country’s Best Workplaces for Women.

US Signal, a Midwest-based IT solutions provider, announced the addition of object storage to its portfolio of cloud storage solutions. The new service provides a cost-effective method for storing large quantities of non-transactional or unstructured data, making it ideal for uses such as long-term file retention of archive data or backup datasets. It can also be used in conjunction with US Signal’s file and block storage options to create a multi-tiered storage strategy.

McLaren Greater Lansing is among the first to receive the new gold standard for identifying newborn patients. The new infant safety system

developed by CertaScan Technologies allows the hospital to capture high resolution, digital newborn footprints which can be used for precise identification in situations like an abduction, lost baby, or natural disaster. The Newborn Safety System — which uses LiveScan Technology — has garnered the attention and praise from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and has been included as a recommendation for hospitals in its most recent Infant Security Guidelines.

The 2017 National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon took place on November 9, 2017. Local Nominees were honored at the Awards Luncheon,

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Tyler Logan (left) and Yamani Vinson sit amidst some of the hundreds of homemade Halloween cards they dropped off at Sparrow so those hospitalized could enjoy the spirit of trick-or-treating.


sponsored by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Capital Area Chapter (CAC). The following individuals and organizations were honored: Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year - Sister Pat Newhouse, Haven House; Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist of the Year - Delta Dental; The Capital Area Chapter Award for Excellence in Fundraising - The Sparrow Foundation and Jim & Judi Herbert; 2018 AFP-CAC Foundation Chamberlin Scholarship Awards - Gabriel Biber, Haven House and Patricia Headley, Michigan Children’s Trust Fund.

Moore Trosper Construction Company has been selected as the design-build contractor for a more than $3.5 million classroom addition at the Joseph K. Lumsden Bahweting Anishnabe School, Sault Ste. Marie. The project broke ground in August and completion is expected December 2017. The more than 17,000-square-foot building includes nine instructional classrooms, a multipurpose classroom, a culture and language room, bathrooms, and office and storage areas that support the gym. It is attached to the middle school gymnasium, and there will be a connecting hallway to the school’s main K-8 facility.

AJBoggs and TelNet Worldwide, Inc. (TelNet) announced a strategic partnership to offer services in telecommunications, cybersecurity and managed Internet hosting. TelNet is strategically investing in expanded capacity in its fiber network, cloud, data center, call center, Internet and voice solutions. AJBoggs’ IXN® and 911.net Teams provide managed services with expertise in cybersecurity, web, disaster recovery, and data-loss prevention services.

A comparison of prices customers were charged on October 16, 2017 by Liberty Coin Service and by the foreign currency exchange service at Detroit’s Metropolitan Airport showed that buyers could get up to 22% better prices at Liberty in small transactions and up to 11% better prices in larger exchanges.

Triterra has been chosen by Meridian Township

as the technical advisor for their newly established Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (BRA). Triterra will help Meridian Township’s BRA to develop policies and procedures, as well as facilitate reviews on new Brownfield projects being proposed in front of the BRA.

On October 26, 2017 in East Lansing, local officials and community partners officially unveiled a new public art installation funded by a Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) and PNC Foundation Public Art for Communities Grant. The functional artwork, four artistic fence panels, were installed in two key areas of the parking lot located on the 500 block of Albert Ave, part of what is known as Artist Alley. The Artist Alley project, completed in summer of 2016, encompasses the parking lot and the pedestrian alley that also serves as a pathway leading to the Broad Art Museum. Artist Maureen Bergquist Gray envisioned the new fence panels with the viewer in mind and intended to draw a connection to existing visual elements in East Lansing.

Lake Trust Credit Union has been recognized for making their organization and community a healthier place to live and work by The Best and Brightest In Wellness® Awards Program, which is the premier program honoring companies and organizations for excellence in health and wellness.

If you or someone you know has gone through cancer treatments, you may be familiar with radiation oncology. Very simply, it is the use of high-energy radiation to treat cancer. This treatment option is most commonly used with other specialties including medical oncology (chemotherapy) and surgery. While radiation therapy may be a great option for the treatment of cancer, it also can help with pain management and quality of life. While radiation therapy has side effects, the treatment itself is pain free. McLaren Greater Lansing uses intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), image guided radiation therapy (IGRT), and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) in order to provide the best outcomes for patients.

The world is more interconnected than ever before, and luxury real estate is evolving to remain ahead of the curve. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC has unveiled the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program, reflecting the globalization of modern luxury. With a footprint spanning 49 countries and territories, the Coldwell Banker® brand has been a leading name in global luxury real estate. The new site will connect 750,000 luxury agents across multiple international brands and syndicate listings globally to real estate portals around the world. The new logo is a simple and sleek take on the classic Coldwell Banker brand imagery, featuring an elegant black and white color scheme.

The Arts Council of Greater Lansing proudly

announces grant funding totaling more than $25,000 to be distributed to area artists and arts organizations. Funding support is provided through the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs (MCACA) Minigrant Program, Young Creatives Grant Program and Chris Clark Fellowship. MCACA Minigrant funding totaling $15,781 for 2018 was awarded to the following recipients: Lansing Art Gallery, The Sistrum Lansing Women’s Chorus, Jane Reiter, DreamWorld Studios for the Arts, East Lansing Department of Parks, Recreation and Art, Native American Arts and Crafts Council and Michigan State University College of Music; Young Creatives Grant funding totaling $5,975 for 2018 was awarded to the following recipients: Lansing Art Gallery, Michigan State University Community Music School, Native American Arts and Crafts Council and Red Cedar Writing Project; and Chris Clark Fellowship funding totaling $8,000 for 2018 was awarded to the following recipients: Ingrid Blixt, Kimberly Lavon, Mary Beth Orr, Michigan State University Community Music School, Petra Daher, Quinn Jiles and Sandra LC Cade.

McLaren prides itself on providing a compassionate and personalized experience for patients and families. In response to feedback from the community, leaders and staff have placed

MEMBERS ON THE MOVE

The groundbreaking for the JKL Bahweting School addition was a team effort. Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians Chairperson Aaron Payment, School Superintendent Theresa Kallstrom, Sault Ste. Marie Mayor Christian Provenzano and Moore Trosper President Ted Moore were joined by other government and tribal dignitaries as well as school personnel, their children and others.

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an even greater focus on initiatives to increase employee engagement and patient satisfaction. Since the implementation of these new practices, McLaren Greater Lansing has made significant improvements with overall satisfaction scores. Most notably, recent data from July and August shows that patients perceive communication with nurses at McLaren Greater Lansing as being better than 88% of hospitals across the nation.

Jackson National Life Insurance Company® recently announced a $10,000 grant to support the Arts Council of Greater Lansing’s Young Creatives Program. The Young Creatives Program began in 2013 and has five distinct components: a print resource guide highlighting arts opportunities for kids ages K-12; scholarships to children in need who are interested in attending arts programs; an advocacy campaign that brings attention to the importance of the arts in schools, including a youth billboard campaign; and an Artist-in-Residence Program that puts teaching artists in area schools to provide arts education.

Your skin is your body’s largest organ, so it’s important to take good care of it. November was National Healthy Skin Month. At Doctor’s Approach, they firmly believe every adult should have a full body exam a minimum of one time,

each year. Even if you have no concerns about the health of your skin, hair, nails, or the oral cavity, you still need to see a dermatologist regularly as a way of maintaining your current healthy skin. Since an estimated 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer at some point in their life, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, healthy adults should see a dermatologist as a proactive way of monitoring for early detection of cancer or other dermatological disorders.

After 3 months of their trainers beta testing these wearable fitness devices, State of Fitness is excited to announce the pre-sale of their newest feature! These belts track your effort in workouts by making precise vital measurements in real time and converting

into effort points (MEPS) and heart rate zones to measure the intensity of your workout. State of Fitness has known about these devices for several years and has seen the results of MYZONE users increase dramatically.

The school bond expertise that Moore Trosper Construction Company provides to its education

clients was the topic of a packed session at the Fall Conference of the Michigan Association of School Administrators in Traverse City. Tony Hollow, former superintendent of Vandercook Lake Public Schools, described how he navigated the complex school bond process with help from Moore Trosper in a session titled “…Bond Issue–Don’t Go it Alone.” The Holt-based construction manager has worked for more than 50 K-12 and higher education clients.

Foster Swift was included in the 2018 U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” list as a Tier 1 Law firm in 25 practice areas. Foster Swift’s Lansing office was awarded 20 Tier 1 ranked practice areas, with three more Tier 1 rankings going to their Grand Rapids office and two for the Southfield office.

McLaren Health Care has signed a definitive agreement to acquire MDwise, a non-profit HMO that serves more than 360,000 Indiana individuals and families and generates in excess of $1.5 billion in annual revenue. The transaction, which is subject to state and federal regulatory review and other closing conditions, is expected to be complete by December 31, 2017. Upon completion of the purchase, total revenues for McLaren Health are expected to approach $6 billion annually. n

MEMBERS ON THE MOVE

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55th Anniversary Year a success.

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prosperous New Year!

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