january/february 2016 cadillac area business magazine

7/25/2019 January/February 2016 Cadillac Area Business Magazine

1/16

Cadillac AreaA Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce Publicatio

BUSINESS MAGAZINEJANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016 Volume 22-No. 1

Investment floating

a profitSee pages 5-7


2/16

ur cover story captures the impor-tance of collaboration, specifically

the Pure Michigan campaign cou-

pled with the vision and leadership

of the Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau. That

collaboration and blueprint, quite notice-

ably has generated economic stimulus in

the greater Cadillac area.

The Cadillac Area Chamber recog-

nizes the effort and success of the CAVB.

Independently, the Northern Michigan

Chamber Alliance, which includes the

Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce, will

continue to advocate for consistent fund-ing for Pure Michigan on the Legislative

front. Tourism is economic development

and tourism-based industries are not the

only beneficiary, as outlined in our cover

story.

The return on investment is tangible and

the Pure Michigan brand is an investment

that now includes success in international

markets highlighting why Michigan is a

very special place. The early fight for tour-

ism funding was anything but easy and

why our Alliance advocates for consistent

funding as the operative, especially with

success. Michigan has three winning eco-

nomic sectors, agriculture, manufacturing

and tourism. However, all have benefited

from Pure Michigan and the efforts of the

tourism industry.

I believe it is important to affirm, all of

us have some ability to support tourism or

visitor-related interactions in meaningful,

but diverse ways. Visitors via tourism or

business-related travel, which does com-

prise lodging occupancy in the Cadillac

area, certainly will evaluate on what

they see and personally experience. The

Cadillac area is a welcoming area, whichis an important brand, and all of us can

collectively assist with simple, positive

outreach when interacting with a visitHowever, equally important is area re

dents recognizing the wonderful assets

our area that were forged by collabo

tion, benevolence, nonprofit focus, volu

teerism and significant local investment

is important not to lose perspective on w

we have advantages people travel to s

use and enjoy beyond physical beauty a

natural resources, that did not material

by happenstance.

From a macro standpoint, promoting o

region has a very big upside when reco

nizing that investment can directly tralate into talent attraction, business re

cations, start ups and population grow

The Cadillac area has sustainable jo

often not known, to job-seekers in our ow

state. I lament every time I hear a rando

Detroit area resident say, If there w

jobs there, I would move there in a m

ute. That is painfully short-sighted, b

understood and in part, why the Cadil

Area Industrial Group put the resourc

behind a Live Cadillac micro site: htt

www.livecadillac.com/. The impetus

creating Live Cadillac was: talent w

select areas that they will enjoy livin

working and playing, so why not the gre

er Cadillac area. Tourism efforts certai

augment that strategy very well.

Lastly, and independently, we welcom

Paula Jasper to our Chamber team as o

new Director of Membership Services

would ask our member organizations

reach out as part of the welcome, but w

the thoughts of how we can serve you b

ter. I also want to thank Doreen Lanc

her decade-plus service of hard work, co

tributions and dedication. Our entire tea

wishes Doreen nothing but success in hnew endeavor as Cadillac Area Commun

Foundation, Executive Director.

2 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016 - CADILLAC AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Mission StatementThe Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce is

a visible business leader that advocates and

drives business opportunities. Through business

alliances, we are a catalyst for our membership

and provide a persuasive regional voice

benefiting our communities.

Kelly Smith, Executive DirectorBaker College of Cadillac

Dave Cox, Vice ChairWexford Missaukee ISD

Trent Mulder, TreasurerBaird, Cotter & Bishop, PC.

Kelly Cater, Past Executive DirectorRec Boat Holdings

Doug DeYoung,Consumers Energy

Don Schepers,Schepers Agency, Inc.Kyle Hogg,Dental Health Professionals

Melody Hurley,Walmart Superstore

Stephen King,Law Office of King & King

Tim Knaggs,Fekete Knaggs & Burr Insurance

Karl Marcusse,PADNOS

Dan Minor,Cadillac Castings, Inc.

Pete Stalker,Mercantile Bank of Michigan

Brian Williams,Blue Heron Caf & Bakery

CHAMBER STAFF

Bill Tencza, [email protected]

Mike Acosta, Great Start [email protected]

Deb Gillies, Leadership Director/[email protected]

Amanda Hamilton, Administrative [email protected]

Paula Jasper, Director of Membership [email protected]

Kent Wood, Director of Government [email protected]

Website:www.cadillac.org

Printer: Pleasant GraphicsPublisher:Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce

TheCadillac Area Business Magazineis a publica-tion of the Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce. TheChamber reserves the right to edit or refuse articlesand advertisements submitted to the Cadillac Area

Business Magazineand reserves the right in its solediscretion to accept or refuse inserts and other materi-als to be distributed through the publication.

Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce

222 Lake Street231-775-9776

2015/2016 Board of Directors

We all play a part in enhancing

the Cadillac experience

BILL TENCZA,Chamber President

O


3/16

CADILLAC AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE - JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

VISIONARY PARTNER

Cadillac HospitalMUNSON HEALTHCARE

AT&T

Belle Oakes Living Center Inc

BorgWarner Thermal Systems

B&P Manufacturing

Cadillac Area Public Schools

Consumers Energy

DTE EnergyFekete Knaggs & Burr Insurance Age

FIAMM Technologies LLC

Fifth Third Bank

ITC

Mercantile Bank of Michigan

Michigan Rubber Products, In

Rexair LLC

Walmart Supercenter Store

Wexford-Missaukee ISD

LEADERSHIP PARTNERS

ConstructionExcavating

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

MarketingConcrete Construction

To discuss a program thats right for your business.

At the Cadillac News, were about nding a variety

of solutions for the marketing and branding of your

unique business.

Our mission is to learn more about your business

goals, trends and long term objectives and to utilizea variety of promotional options to accomplish them.

Options include: Newspaper Marketing, Niche

Marketing, Online Promotions & Services, Classifed

Marketing, Web Design & Development Services and

Commercial Printing.

Providing Your

Complete Marketing Solution

NewsC A D I L L A C

Trusted. Local. Connected.

Call Katheryn Kidder, Senior Sales & Marketing Specialist at (231) 779-4142.

Tuxes & TastingsInsurance

231-468-3559

Fax 231-468-3061231-468-3560

[email protected]

Membership TravelInsurance Financial Services

Walkley Agency of Cadillac

919 N. Mitchell -Ste. BCadillac, MI 49601

Renee Walkley

Agency Principal

AMERICAN SOCIETY OFCONCRETE CONTRACTORS

11014 S. Morey Rd., McBain, MI 49657 231-825-8051

Christopher Schepers, Owner

JsC EXCAVATING, INC.

STONE & GRAVEL BACKHOE WORK SUBDIVISON &LAND DEVELOPMENT

BASEMENTS EARTH MOVING

GRADING & BULLDOZING FILL DIRT SEWER & WATER

(231) 775-1773(231) 775-0703 FAX9051 E. 48 1/2 Road Cadillac Shop Junction of M-115 & US-131

Craig Johnson, CEO231-878-3550 Bonded & Insured

Edward DrachtPresident

DRACHT CONSTRUCTION CO.Design Build Contracting

Serving the greater Cadillac area since 1972.

Butler Steel buildings CONVENTIONAL FRAMED BUILDINGSCommercial Industrial Institutional Agriculture Churches

Ofces Rubber Roofs Concrete Flatwork Complete Turnkey Projects

23350 100th Ave. Marion, MI 49665 ofce: (231) 825-0035email: [email protected] fax: (231) 825-0038www.drachtconstruction.butlersteel.com cell: (231) 357-8718

209 N. Mitchell St., Cadillac

231-775-2856www.cadillactux.com

CADILLACTUXEDO, LLCCadillac WineryTasting Room

Tuxes & Tastings

These benefits are part of your chamber membership and are found on the home page

at www.cadillac.org. Please contact the Chamber with any questions or assistance.

ATTENTION CHAMBER MEMBERS:

Share your news! Chamber members canshare their news on our website, this is a great

opportunity to welcome new staff, promotions,awards, celebrations and announcementsthat

our members will want to read about.

This program offers a unique combination ofpromoting member-to-member buying, boostingsales for our members, and increasing membervisibility.

Go to www.cadillac.org and click on theMember2Member Advantage Program to getstarted promoting your business and savingyouand your employees money.


4/16


BY MIKE ACOSTA

DIRECTOR, GREAT STATE COLLABORATIVE

There is an extensive body of research show-

ing that children, families and the commu-

nity all benefit from the investment in quality

early childhood experiences for all our chil-

dren. The most famous is a 40-year study by

the HighScope Foundation here in Michigan.

Sometimes known as the Perry Preschool

Project, the study followed a group of at-risk

4-year-olds who were offered a quality pre-

school program and a matched control group

of similar socioeconomic and at-risk status

who did not have benefit of the program. Thetwo groups have been followed for 40 years.

The study demonstrated the outcomes of

quality early childhood education include:

Children are less likely to be in special edu-

cation

Show higher achievement scores at age 14

Demonstrate higher graduation rates and

increased likelihood of going on to college

Delayed childbearing

Less likely to be in poverty

Increased earning capacity which equals

increased taxes paid

Decreased involvement with criminal jus-

tice system, both as a juvenile and as an adult

This translates into a more productive

workforce

Business needs qualified workers and the

US is falling behind global competition. It is

projected that 63% of all American jobs will

require some form of college education in the

next 8 years, but the US lags behind our glob-

al competitors in both high school and col-

lege graduation rates. By 2018 it is predicted

that our workforce will fall short of employer

needs by nearly 8 million workers with at

least some post-secondary credential.

Children cultivate 85% of their intellect, per-sonality and skills by age 5. The first months

and years of life set the stage for lifelong

achievement. According to the HighScope

study, a $1 investment in high-quality early

childhood programs will return as much

as $17 to the community in later savings. A

2003 study by the Federal Reserve Bank of

Minnesota demonstrated an annual real rate

of return which exceeded 16%.

The Great Start Collaborative is working,

through the leadership of the Cadillac Area

Chamber of Commerce, to improve outcomes

for children in the Wexford Missaukee area.

Improving the readiness of children enter-

ing kindergarten is one of our targeted goals.

Among other successes over the last several

years, we have succeeded in getting the state

legislature to increase funding for preschool

for low income families.

The Wexford Missaukee Great Start

Business Engagement Committee wanted to

do more and wanted to focus on all the com-

munitys children. Out of that desire came the

Wexford Missaukee Imagination Library.

In April 2013, we began signing up children

and in June of 2013, the first 148 children

began receiving books. Since then, 2,621 chil-

dren have received books through the Wexford

Missaukee Imagination Library. A total of

more than 42,200 books have been deliv-

ered as of December 2015. Funded by Dolly

Parton in 1995 in Sevier County, Tennessee,

where she grew up, the Imagination Libraryhas been replicated across the country. The

program provides a book in the mail each

month to children from birth until their fifth

birthday. These are high quality, colorful

books meant to build a love of reading in the

child. But much more than that, each book

includes a letter to parents telling them what

to do before reading the book, while readi

the story and how to follow up afterwards

build on the childs learning experience.

The books are offered to all families rega

less of income at no cost. The program

funded 100% by donations. Businesses, in

viduals and others have provided the fund

to allow the program to be offered locally.

But we need your help! The first thing y

can do is to encourage employees and t

public to sign up their children, grandch

dren and neighbors. Children can be enrol

in the program at http://usa.imagination

brary.com. You can pick up paper forms at t

Chamber office, at local libraries or schoo

You can also pick up business cards for yo

office front desk or reception area which t

parents how to sign up.

Secondly, you can help by providing fina

cial support through a direct designation

the United Way or by sending a contributi

to the Cadillac Area Community Foundati

with a notation for the Imagination Library

Any questions and for more information

to [email protected].

The Imagination Library is just one of tways that the Great Start Collaborative

working to improve outcomes for all of t

children in our community. Quality ea

childhood experiences matter and make a d

ference to the future of our community, m

ing it a more attractive place to live, work a

play.

Great Start Collaborativepromotes investment

in the future of our community


5/16


The greater Cadillac area is reaping the benefits of the Pure Michigan

campaign after teaming up with the state in 2012.

The Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau started linking with the Pure

Michigan campaign, funding $35,000 annually to help promote the

Cadillac area on the states Pure Michigan website.

The CAVB targets the Indiana, Ohio and Illinois metropolitan areas.

The campaign is geared toward two- to four-person families that have

a household income of $55,000 and who are looking for outdoor rec-

reation.

The campaign appears to be paying off. Joy VanDrie, of the Cadillac

Area Visitors Bureau, said Cadillac area hotels had its highest occu-

pancy rate ever for October 2015, as well as the highest revenue

through the month of October at $39,942.Besides Cadillac, the CAVB also covers areas north to Buckley, south

to LeRoy in Osceola County, east to Merritt in Missaukee County, and

west to Wellston in Manistee County.

The higher occupancy is also felt by downtown businesses, VanD

said.

Increased occupancy has been noticed on Mitchell Street by o

downtown stores, she said, who all gained revenue this past ye

from traveling tourists to the area.

VanDrie said the downtown is an attraction to travelers, just like

lakes and trails. A positive and full downtown can help enhance t

travelers experience.

When I started with the CAVB five years ago the downtown wou

gain three businesses and lose four businesses every year, VanD

said. Now, with the increase in traffic and revenue in our downtow

brick and mortar we are still seeing some close, but more open th

close and more are changing ownership rather than close.Improvements to the park as well as the downtown will continue

help spur the economy.

Cashing in on an investmentCadillac areas Pure Michigan partnership

dividends include increasing hotel room occupancy

(800)22-LAKES| CadillacMichig

an.com100+milesofhi

kingthroughtheheartoftheM

anisteeNationalForest.Shake

outthe

wintercobwebsandplanyourn

exthikingtriptoCadillac

CAD

ILLAC

M

I CH I G AN

4421'56.4552''N

|8549'36.1884''W

GET THE NEWVISITO

RS GUIDE

REQUESTORDOWNLO

AD

AT:CadillacMichig

an.com

Above is one of the many ads that the Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau has used to promote the area to potential visitors in other states. This was a half-page ad that ran in Fort Wayne, India


6/16


The future changes in the city park are exciting because we will be

removing the physical barrier of the parking lot between the down-

town and the city park festivals, and making it fluid and friendly,she

said. We have new investment in our downtown properties and futurenew second floor living spaces all good for downtown and the area

business economy.

The return on the Pure Michigan investment has been reported at 6 to

1, said Kent Wood, Director of Government Relations for the Cadillac

Area Chamber of Commerce and Northern Michigan Chamber

Alliance. Wood said that for every dollar spent on advertising on the

Pure Michigan campaign generates $6 in tourism spending in the state.

The Pure Michigan campaign has been a major boost for the econ-

omy in northern Michigan by showcasing our region and the natural,

cultural, and agricultural amenities we have to offer, Wood said.

has been probably the most effective way to reach across our state b

ders to tell people how to experience northern Michigan.

The return on investment is already being reinvested in the arVanDrie said. She said three area hotels have already spent $5 milli

on upgrades, and more than $2 million has been spent on upgrades

Merritt Speedway, Caberfae Peaks, new restaurants and trails.

The spin-off effect is that when we reach a certain percentage

occupancy, the hotels start making profits to re-invest in capital pr

ects and additional staff, or wage increases, VanDrie said. If o

hotels are doing well, the trickle down means more visitors are on t

streets downtown shopping, filling up their gas tanks at service s

tions, eating at area restaurants, golfing and attending our attraction

The Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau doesnt promote just Cadillac, but also places like the Merritt Speedway in Missaukee County.

Pure Michigan has helped expand northern Michigans reac


7/16


Does your business or

organization need a website?

We can do that!

You have a vision. We have the resourcesLet us build a website that works for you...not us.

Website Design and Development A fully customized, professionally-designed website that is imaginative

yet highly professional Content Management System (CMS) - This system allows you, if you so

choose, to manage, make changes, add inventory and upload photos to

your website - entirely yourself, without hitting you with extra charges.

Mobile and tablet friendly version

Search Engine Optimization - We will help you develop SEO Optimized

content for your website, weaving an established list of keywords/

phrases into the customized content that we write for you.

CMS Training/Support

Websites starting at $49

Mobile MarketingIf you already have a website, we can take your existing site and make

it smartphone functional. Stay connected with customers no matter what

device they are using.

For as low as $24

CREATIVE CONCEPTS. STRATEGIC MARKETING. EFFECTIVE APPLICATIONS

[email protected]

Chris Eastway,Digital Solutions Sales & Marketing

Contact us today to set up your FREE consultation.

The increasing traffic is also generating an increase in need, such as

the need for guide companies.

We could use a few guide companies focusing on taking people out

and showing them how to experience our trails, lakes, rivers, VanDriesaid. Not fishing guided, but someone who can help organize out-

door activities like biking, hiking, etc., and show newcomers how to.

There is potential for kayak/personal craft rentals on lakes, also boat

tours on Lakes Mitchell and Cadillac.

Many live here and have never been on the lake and boomers just

want a slow tour of the shoreline, VanDrie added. We really need

more experiential providers, if you own a full farm, open it up and

offer farm tours and let us know. We have a lot of best kept secrets, we

need the information so our visitors can experience them, too.

Currently there are questions on what the state funding levels will be

for the campaign. Wood said the state is looking at a projected $300

million deficit in next years budget.

Time will tell what the Governor and legislature have in store forthe Pure Michigan campaign during next years budget debate, he

said. We were pleased with the bump in funding to $33 million for

the campaign last year, and we will be happy to see it stay put at $33

million next year.

We would like to see the consistent funding for the program con-

tinue, but it will also be important for stakeholders like the Alliance to

know what the long-term plan is for the campaign, and for any addi-

tional money it might receive, Wood said.

Increase in tourist interestand traffic is creating

a need for certain providers

Back to the Bricks in downtown Cadillac is one of several events the Cadillac Area Visitors

Bureau helps to promote bring in tourists into the area. The work with Pure Michigan has

helped spur additional economic activity throughout the area.


8/16


Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce

23rd Annual BriefcaseOpen Golf Outing

Friday, May 20, 2016Evergreen Resort (Host Course)

& Cadillac Country Club

*Proceeds beneft Chamber programs,services and legislative advocacy.

DeadlinefortheMarch/April2016

CadillacAreaBusinessMagazine

isFebruary5,2016. Shareyour

business/organizationnews!

NOVEMBER 2015

Rise Up! Cadillac

Hosted by:

Anytime Fitness

Sponsored by:

ToyTown

Sponsored by:

Cadillac Tuxedo &Cadillac Winery Tasting Room

Sponsored by:

Wexford Community Credit Union

Your Chamber is now on Social Media! Find outwhat weve been up to and join our upcoming

programs by visiting our Facebook Page.

www.facebook.com/CadillacChamber

Find us onFacebook


9/16

CADILLAC AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE - JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016 9

January/February Health Tip:

Staying Active in Cold Weather - Get startedThere are plenty of ways to be active in fall and

winter, even if the weather turns cold. You can stay

in shape and have fun while youre at it. Here are

some ideas:

IndoorsGo for walks at the mall with a friend. Local schools

and churches may have indoor gyms where youcan walk. You may want to buy a pedometer from

a sporting goods store. You can use it to count your

steps. This will help motivate you to walk more.

Get some hand weights or stretch bands to use at

home for resistance exercise. You can get t while

you watch your favorite TV show or listen to music.

Try doing a little more each week. Use cans of food if

you dont want to buy weights.

Buy or rent an exercise DVD, or borrow one at the

library. If you have an MP3 player, you can download

audio routines from the Internet. This can be a fun

way to stay in shape at home.

Take the stairs and t in walk breaks whenever youcan. This will give you extra activity, even on a busy

day.

Do active housework like sweeping, mopping,

vacuuming, doing laundry, or washing the windows.

You can stay active while you keep your home

looking good.

Join a gym or health club. You can use machines

like treadmills, stair-climbers, or exercise bikes. Try

a tness class or a new indoor activity, like dancing

or water aerobics. Many cities have community

centers that oer aordable tness classes.

Get involved in sports leagues in your community

or at work. Many cities oer indoor sports like

basketball,

volleyball,

indoor soccer,

or swimming.

OutdoorsRake leaves

or other yard

work.

Bundle up,

and take the

dog for a walk. This can help you make walks part of

your daily routine.

Shovel snow. This can be great winter exercise. But

if you have heart problems or other health concerns,

be sure to ask your doctor if shoveling snow is okay.Overdoing it can put dangerous strain on your body.

Try a new winter activity like skating, cross-

country skiing, or snowshoeing. When you do outdoor

activities in less populated areas, be sure to plan

ahead. Let people know where you will be, and take

the right gear for the conditions.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

SavetheDate

LectureLuncheonJANUARY22,2016

TerryVandercook,ManagerMichiganBuyerDevelopment,PureMichiganBusinessConnect

BakerCollegeofCadillacatNoon-1:15PM

SavetheDate

February05,2016

ChadBoolman,SelfDefenseTrainer

LakesideCharlesatNoon-1:15PM

Womeninbusiness

Cadillac

Variety ShowSaturday, April 16th

Cadillac Community Schools Auditorium

SavetheDate


10/16


ARTICLE SUBMITTED BY KATHY CRESS

This being the 25th anniversary of the

Cadillac Leadership Class, our goal is

to make a big splash with this years

project. We are pleased to announce the

selection of our community service proj-

ect for 2015-2016. Class members have

spent multiple weeks in group discus-

sions and idea sharing. One idea that

kept coming to the forefront was chosen

by a unanimous vote. Our group has

elected to fund a community splash pad/

ice rink as a part of the City of Cadillacs

Heritage Plaza Project. The project is

scheduled to commence this spring with

the goal of a fall completion.This is why we chose a combination splash

pad and ice rink. Our project will support

the community as a whole, provide an added

incentive for visitors to spend time in the

downtown/lakefront area and increase the

ambience of the Heritage Plaza. We want to

make this project a pillar of the community

and support the City of Cadillac in this exciting

addition to our park system.

The splash pad/ice rink will be oval in shape,

40 feet by 50 feet. During the summer months,it will operate as a fountain-type splash pad.

Water will spray upward at different heights,

angles and intervals through holes in the base

of the pad. In the winter months, an enclosure

will be installed around the pad, allowing it to

be used as an ice rink. This project is unique

in that it can be enjoyed by the public all year

round.

Each years leadership class is responsible

for choosing a community service project, fun-

draising for that project and a

ensuring the project is complet

During our nine month tenu

we will have the opportunity

enhance our leadership skills a

strengthen our understanding

the community and its needs.

Our fundraising efforts are und

way. Please mark your calendars

the Leadership & Friends Dinner

be held at the Cadillac Grill, Frid

March 11, 2016. Details and oth

events will be announced soon.

For more information regardi

our class project, please cont

Lucas Dent, 231-942-2760, Brittany Hun,231-878-2397 or Kathy Cress, 231-884-0217

If you wish to support our community s

vice project, please visit the Cadillac Ar

Chamber of Commerce website at www.cad

lac.org to make an online donation. Chec

may be made payable to Cadillac Leadersh

Cadillac Splash and mailed to:

Kathy Cress, Class Treasurer, Avon Protecti

Systems, 503 Eighth Street, Cadillac,

49601. Your support is greatly appreciated.

City of CadillacHeritage Plaza Concept Plan

Harri

sSt

.

Cas

sSt

.

NewParkingLot

NewParkingLot

Dumpster

Enclosure

Dumpster

Enclosure

Fireplace

Splash

Pad

Decoratve Plaza &

Ice Rink Area

DeliveryAlley

DeliveryAlley

2015-2016 Cadillac Leadership Class AnnouncesCommunity Service Project ... Cadillac Splash

CadillacLeadershipSimply the Best

25THANNIVERSARY


11/16


DuroSpeed

K-Series

Viscous

Thermal Shutter

Cadillac Plant

Our products lead the commercial diesel industry.

www.borgwarner.com 231.779.7500

www.thelakeviewofcadillac.org | (231) 775-0101460 Pearl Street | Cadillac, MI 49601

Gracious Rehabilitation, Memory Careand Skilled Nursing Services

by Lutheran Social Services of Michigan

We are very fortunate to have a placelike The Lakeview in our community.Highly skilled medical professionals,

caring upbeat attendants, and committedtherapists make the facility one I would

recommend to anyone. I cant say enoughabout the terrifc care I received.

~ Don SamardichLongtime Attorney & Cadillac Resident

The new year brings new issues facing the state legislature.

Kent Wood, Director of Government Relations for the Cadil

Area Chamber of Commerce and Northern Michigan ChambAlliance, discussed pending issues for 2016 and potential bal

proposals on tap for Election Day 2016.

The Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerces Lecture Lunche

was held at Baker College of Cadillac December 11.

Among the major issues discussed were the energy package,

well as a legislative package focused on reversing the financ

struggles facing Detroit Public Schools.

The issue with DPS is that they have more than half a billi

dollars in debt and the state is on the hook for that, Wood sa

Those are the parameters that our Legislature is dealing with.

Wood also discussed the expansion of the Health Insuran

Claims Assessment tax.

The legislature is working on a proposal to extend the curreHICA tax sunset from 2017 to 2025. This is a tax on employe

who offer health care and is used to fund Michigans Medica

program.

The proposal also calls for an elimination of the current st

utory cap imposed upon revenue generated through HICA a

Michigans Medicaid HMO Use Tax, which means that busines

could be paying more in HICA tax assessments in the future.

In addition to Woods legislative update, State Rep. Phil Pot

R-Cadillac, said a collaborative effort is underway between hi

self and Wexford-Missaukee Superintendent Jeff Jennette to p

vide area employer training.

I want to open the opportunity up for our intermediate sch

districts to promote education for our employers very similar

what our community colleges are already doing, Potvin sa

There is a $50 million fund that has been set aside for comm

nity colleges and were trying to mirror that but with a whole n

fund created by the employers.

Workforce and talent development will be a priority for t

Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance in 2016, Wood added.

Training is a key component to the talent and workforce issu

were facing, Wood said.

Energy and Detroit schools bailout packageare issues Lansing faces in 2016


12/16


www.DonsAutoClinic.comHonesty and Integrity are the Foundation of Our Business!

1110 N. Mitchell, Cadillac, MI 775-2413

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 AM-5:30 PM, Sat. 8 AM-2 PM, Other by Appt.

Sit Back & Enjoy the Ride

2016 Jeep CherokeeLatitude 4x4 StopIn&Checkitout!

AUTHORITY ACCOUNTING INC

317 N Mitchell

Cadillac, MI 49601

(231) 846-7959

www.authorityaccounting.comEva Piana

CADILLAC MORTGAGE

201 N Mitchell St. Suite 202

Cadillac, MI 49601

(231) 468-3333

www.cadillacmortgage.com

Candice Vickery

FRIENDS TO ELECT

MICHELE HOITENGA FOR STATE REP

226 Roberts Street

Manton, MI 49663(231) 878-3888

www.MicheleForMichigan.com

Michele Hoitenga

KEYSTONE RETIREMENT SERVICE LLC

512 N Mitchell St

Cadillac, MI 49601

(231) 878-7074

Ryan Cicchelli

NORTHERN TRUCK SERVICE

6170 W Gerwoude Drive

McBain, MI 49657

(231) 825-6008Jennifer Schierbeek

ROARING 20s SALOON

210 S Mitchell

Cadillac, MI 49601

(231) 775-8411

James Feister

SUMMIT RESTAURANT MANAGMENT

(McDonalds Cadillac)6231 M-115

PO Box 589

Cadillac, MI 49601(317) 847-3322

Barb Taylor

THE LANDING DANCE ACADEMY

114 S. Mitchell St.

Cadillac, MI 49601

(231) 468-2999

www.landingdance.com

Lindsay Rumohr

Welcome

New Members

Paula Jasper namedDirector of Member Servicesat Cadillac Area

Chamber of Commerce

The Cadillac Area Chamber of

Commerce welcomes Paula Jasper as

Director of Membership Services. Paula

will be responsible for membership

growth, retention and services, as well as

program and committee oversight. Jasper

is excited to support and assist Cadillac

Area Chamber of Commerce memberbusinesses and organizations.

Jasper is a Cadillac native with a back-

ground in sales and media. She may look

familiar to you, as she has spent the last five years working as

Northern Michigan reporter for MiNews 26 television.

Please feel free to welcome Paula at [email protected]

or 231-775-9776.

Peggy Bazuin joinsWalkley Agency

The Walkley Agency of Cadillac has announced that Peggy

Bazuin has joined the AAA Insurance team. Bazuin has been

an insurance agent for 16 years. Bazuin was previously with

AAA Paul Bulger (retired). The Walkley Agency opened in 2015.


13/16

BY TODD GOLNICK

CITY OF CADILLAC CHIEF OF POLICE

Wow! As we start 2016, it is

amazing to think of the changes

that Silent Observer has gonethrough during the past year. With

the support of the community,

the tireless members of the Silent

Observer Board and the Cadillac

Area Chamber of Commerce, we

have managed a full grade tech-

nology implementation this year.

Thats the power of volunteerism.

More than 40 tips have been sub-

mitted using the new technology

over the past 5 months. That num-

ber will grow as word continues to

get out. But what is most impres-sive is the quality of the informa-

tion being received and the ability

for law enforcement to dialogue

with tipsters. It is clearly evident

that tipsters are far more com-

fortable utilizing the mobile app

or the webpage-based

reporting system.

A recently submit-

ted tip is an excellent

example of the newtechnology at work.

After seeing a disturb-

ing post on Facebook,

a tipster went into

action. The post showed a disturb-

ing photo of a man who had been

recently beaten and the poster

bragging about it. Knowing the

people involved were from the

area, the tipster took a screen

shot of the Facebook post, went

to their mobile app, P3 Tips, and

uploaded it to Silent Observer.Within minutes the Michigan

State Police teamed up with the

Cadillac Police Department.

Officers dialogued with the tipster

asking clarifying questions about

what else they may know. Before

the afternoon had passed, police

identified the victim, lodged the

suspect in jail on an unrelated

charge, and continued to pursue

the assault investigation. Its safe

to say that a picture is worth a

thousand words.

As we move through 2016, Silent

Observer has launched a member-ship base to continue supporting

this technology. If your business is

interested in Standing Strong in

Crime Prevention, please email

Mike Paulin, board president, at

[email protected].


Local Investment.

Local Faces.

At Mercantile Bank weve assembled a team whos invested in the growth of the

Northern Michigan communities and the vibrant businesses that thrive here. The people

you see here every day understand your banking and business needs because they live

and work here too. Local decisions, local investment, local faces, thats how Mercantile

Bank is here to get you there.

www.mercbank.com

Cadillac Downtown Cadillac North

231-775-9000 231-779-8954

Technology is helping all of us efficiently

stand strong in crime prevention


14/16


COMMERCIAL ROOFING

FALL PROTECTION

MECHANICAL INSULATION

Home of the Springeld SmartRoofPhone231.263.5300 Toll Free888.469.0059

Fax231.263.5723 6509 M-37 Kingsley, MI 49649

www.springeldsmartroof.comAn Authorized Duro-Last Contractor

WEREONTOPOFIT!

24/7 Emergency Service.

We make it our responsibility

to keep you dry!

Thirsty Thursday YP mixersare held the first Thursday of every month at alternating locations.Please keep an eye on the chambers facebook page as we willshare the events when the dates become available.

New Executive Directo

at the Cadillac Area

Community Foundation

Doreen Lanc was been named the Execut

Director of the Cadillac Area Community Foundatiin November 2015. She worked as a Co-Execut

Director with Linda Kimbel, Executive Director, un

December 30, 2015, when Kimbel retired.

Lanc has served as a board member of Cadil

Oasis Family Resources, President of the Cadil

Area Womens Giving Circle, member of the Cadil

Area Health Coalition, and is currently the Preside

of Rotary Club of Cadillac. She also volunteered

many other organizations and events.

My position at the Cadillac Area Commun

Foundation fits right into my passion for working

improve the quality of life in our community, sa

Lanc.Lanc had been employed at the Cadillac Ar

Chamber of Commerce, providing services for me

bers, prospective members, and planning chamb

events since January 2005.


15/16


Since 1917, Chemical Bank has helped businesses thrive with abundant

financing options and a full range of business banking products. Our

financial experts have everything you need to help your business succeed.

STARTING OUT

TO STARTING OVERWITH YOU, EVERY STEP.

>>>

2016 CADILLAC SRX CROSSOVER

CHALLENGE YOUR PERCEPTIONS.

EXPERIENCE A CADILLAC FOR YOURSELF.

South End Business US-131, Exit 177, Cadillac www.HighpointAuto.com

(231) 775-1222 1-800-828-9852

2016 CADILLAC SRX

Data track 2014-2015

Wexford County Jan. 15 Feb. 15 Mar. 15 April 15 May 15 June 15 July 15 Aug. 15 Sept. 15 Oct. 15 Nov. 15 Dec. 1

Labor Force 14,613 14,603 14,575 14,523 14,979 15,003 14,850 14,598 14,386 14,370 14,412 13,27

Employment 13,379 13,483 13,465 13,628 13,891 13,990 13,830 13,805 13,637 13,599 13,679 12,29

Unemployment 1,234 1,120 1,110 895 1,088 1,013 1,020 793 749 771 733 98

Rate 8.4% 7.7% 7.6% 6.2% 7.3% 6.8% 6.9% 5.4% 5.2% 5.4% 5.1% 7.4%

Missaukee County Jan. 15 Feb. 15 Mar. 15 April 15 May 15 June 15 July 15 Aug. 15 Sept. 15 Oct. 15 Nov. 15 Dec. 1

Labor Force 7,131 7,140 7,226 7,014 7,344 7,400 7,337 7,217 7,095 6,972 6,887 5,81

Employment 6,534 6,583 6,666 6,560 6,856 6,915 6,862 6,851 6,752 6,632 6,575 5,38

Unemployment 597 557 560 454 488 485 475 366 343 340 312 42

Rate 8.4% 7.8% 7.7% 6.5% 6.6% 6.6% 6.5% 5.1% 4.8% 4.9% 4.5% 7.4%

For more information go online to www.cadillac.org/discover/about_LaborActivity.htm

Nick Jacqmain

appointed President o

Springfield Inc.

Nick Jacqmain has been appointed President

Springfield Inc. Jacqmain earned his bachelo

degree in Business Administration and Spo

Management from Central Michigan Universi

Jacqmain joined the Springfield team in 2009. President, Jacqmain will work closely with CE

Terry Umlor to manage all corporate activity.

Hervey is named partner

at Baird, Cotter and

Bishop P.C.

Baird, Cotter and Bishop, P.C. is pleased to announce

that Corinna K. Hervey has become a partner of the firm.

Hervey has both CPA and CFE credentials and provides

tax, audit, and consulting to individuals, businesses, not

for profit entities and governmental units. From northernMichigan, she currently resides in Reed City.

When not working she enjoys camping, traveling, and

doing projects with her husband and two children.


16/16

Cadillac Area

Chamber of Commerce

222 N. Lake St.

Cadillac, MI 49601-1874

PRSRT STD

US POSTAGE

PAID

TRAVERSE CITY

MI

PERMIT #96

january/february 2016 cadillac area business magazine

Documents