history under the capitol dome...lansingchamber.org 1the monthly news magazine of the lansing...

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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 • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7

105TH ANNUAL DINNER AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED

FOCUS ON SMALL BUSINESS: DRIVEN COLLISION

MEET THE 2017 LRCC BOARD OF DIRECTORS

HISTORY UNDER THE CAPITOL DOME

2 FOCUS / FEBRUARY 2017

As the voice of business, the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce works closely with elected officials and policy makers at the local, state and federal levels to advocate for sound public policy. Our mission is to ensure that public officials are fully aware of the business viewpoint on critical policy issues, and to help create an environment throughout our region and state that encourages business investment, job creation and a strong quality of life. In many respects, I look at 2017 as a year of great opportunity to make significant progress towards achieving those goals.

First, as noted in this month’s cover story in FOCUS, the Greater Lansing region finds itself in the unprecedented position of having local lawmakers holding the two highest leadership positions in the State House of Representatives. Congratulations to Speaker Tom Leonard (R-Dewitt) and House Minority Leader Sam Singh (D-East Lansing) for their well-deserved selection to the top spots.

Speaker Leonard and Leader Singh’s advancement to these positions will undoubtedly provide our Capitol Caucus with a stronger voice at the State Capitol. This represents a great opportunity to showcase our region and our leadership. Our local leaders will play pivotal roles in shaping the direction of key issues including, public pensions, unfunded liabilities, infrastructure investment, skilled trades and education. We look forward to working with the Speaker and House Minority Leader.

Something you will also hear about in the coming year is the Chamber’s partnership with Michigan State University and Ingham, Eaton and Clinton Counties in a new initiative called the Capitol Council of Governments (CAPCOG). The mission of CAPCOG is to advocate for issues at the state level for the benefit of our entire region. We will work collaboratively to support regional economic development and growth opportunities, infrastructure, talent and regulatory streamlining for the Greater Lansing region.

Finally, 2017 is an important local election year, most notably in the cities of Lansing and East Lansing. This is the business community’s opportunity to identify and support candidates who will share our vision for moving the region forward and who will work collaboratively with us in building regional relationships to advance that vision in a positive way. Both communities will elect new city council members and Lansing will have what will undoubtedly be a contested race for Mayor. I strongly encourage your engagement in this process as this election is one that will have a profound impact on the future and direction of the region.

As we head into the second month of the year, we should all feel confident that new leadership at the State Capitol will lead our region and state in a positive direction. As we move towards the end of 2017, we should all feel that we have a stake in selecting local leaders who will work with us to address the key issues facing our region.

Let’s do this right — together. It’s Greater Lansing’s opportunity to shine!

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAMBER

An Opportunity for our Region to Shine

“We should all feel confident that new leadership at the State Capitol will lead our region and state in a positive new direction. As we move towards the end of 2017, we should all feel that we have a stake in selecting local leaders who will work with us to address the key issues facing our region.”

TIM DAMANPresident and CEOLansing RegionalChamber of Commerce

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


TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7 / MEMBER MIXER 5:00 - 7:00 p.m., Location: Pizza House, 4790 South Hagadorn, East Lansing. Pizza House is a family-owned business with restaurants in Ann Arbor and East Lansing, Michigan - serving famous Chicago and Sicilian deep dish and traditional pizzas, pasta, chipatis and everything in between. Pizza House has more than 25 years of experience in providing award winning dining, delivery and catering services. No charge for Chamber members ($15/non-members). Registration can be completed at www.lansingchamber.org. Includes hors d’oeuvres.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16 / 2017 ANNUAL DINNER 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center, 219 S. Harrison Road, East Lansing. With more than 800 attendees, Annual Dinner is the region’s premiere business celebration and networking event. This program includes remarks from the Chambers incoming board Chair, honors the outgoing Chair and board members, and is followed by the presentation of the Community Service, Outstanding Small Business and Legacy Awards. This is also an opportunity to reflect on the past year’s 10 Over the Next Ten, Celebration of Regional Growth, ATHENA and ATHENAPowerLink recipients. Early bird tickets (through February 1): $95/members, $710/table of eight, and $140/non-members. To register or for information about sponsorships, please visit www.lansingchamber.org. For additional information, please contact Travis Richardson at 517-853-6463 or [email protected].

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22 / 2017 EXECUTIVE WELCOME 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m., UrbanBeat Events Center, 1213 Turner St, Lansing. The Executive Welcome is a reception for local executives new to the area and presents members with an outstanding opportunity to introduce yourself and your company to the region’s newest decision makers. No cost to attend for members ($15/non-members). Includes hors d’oeuvres. RSVP at www.lansingchamber.org.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28 / ECONOMIC CLUB 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center, East Lansing. Speaker: Matt Johnson, President, On Target Living. 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. To register for this event, please visit www.lansingchamber.org. For additional information, please contact Travis Richardson at 517-853-6463 or [email protected].

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1 / DELTA GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE 8:00 – 9:00 a.m. Location: Crowne Plaza Lansing West, 925 S. Creyts Road, 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].

TUESDAY, MARCH 14 / MEMBER MIXER 5:00 - 7:00 p.m., Location: Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center, 3181 Sandhill Road, Mason. Nestled on a beautiful 35 acre wooded campus just outside of Lansing, Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center is a nonprofit organization offering a continuum of care for individuals who have sustained a brain injury. Origami provides more than medical care. They work as a team, bringing together committed professionals who use a unique interdisciplinary approach and a network of community resources to meet the physical, social, spiritual, cognitive, and emotional needs of those who have sustained a brain injury. No charge for Chamber members ($15/non-members). Registration can be completed at www.lansingchamber.org. Includes hors d’oeuvres.

THURSDAY, MARCH 16 / CHAMBER 360 8:00 – 9:30 a.m., Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Insurance Capital Board Room, 500 E. Michigan Ave., Ste. 200, Lansing. Chamber members are encouraged to attend Chamber 360 to learn how to maximize your Chamber benefits, meet our staff and network with other members. This is a FREE event, but space is limited. To register for this event, please contact Michelle Rahl at 517-853-6457 or [email protected].

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

Cover Photography Trumpie Photography

Printing BRD Printing, Inc.

Mailing BRD Printing, Inc.

FOCUS

Thursday, February 165:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.Kellogg Hotel and Conference CenterSponsorship Information: Travis Richardson at 517-853-6463 or [email protected]: www.lansingchamber.org.

DON’T MISS: 2017 Annual Dinner

David Baker, Farm Bureau Insurance Company

Denise Droscha, Two Men & A Truck

Jenn Dubey, University Club

Tom Mee, McLaren Greater Lansing

Steve Reynolds, Accident Fund Holdings, Inc.

Fathy Shetiah, 7C Lingo

Lauren Aitch, Our Own Products

Stella Cash, Sparrow Health System

Van Martin, CBRE|Martin

Steve Notar Donato, General Motors

Bill Woodbury, Auto-Owners Insurance, Co.

David Zyble, Jackson National Life Insurance

David Ferguson, Ferguson Development

Wendy Hamilton, TechSmith

Teri Hull, Dart Container

Tonia Olson, Granger

Tom Stewart, Common Wealth Enterprises

At-Large

STAY CONNECTED. STAY SOCIAL.

facebook.com/LansingChamber

twitter.com/LansingChamber

@LansingRegionalChamber

Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce


AAA MichiganAARPAldiAppleTree Early Care and

Preschool - East LansingAssociated Builders

& Contractors, Inc. (Greater MI)

ASU Group, TheAuto-Owners

Insurance Co.

Ayles Tree Service, Inc.Blue Cross Blue Shield of

MichiganBoy Scouts of America/

Michigan Crossroads Council

Capital Area AnesthesiaComcast SpotlightComerica BankCornerstone UniversityCountry Stitches

CSL Plasma ServicesDeWitt Charter TownshipDuckett Brothers

DistributingEdge Partnerships, LLCeL 903 the ElementFairfield Inn and Suites by

Marriott-EastwoodFamily Life Financial

Services of MichiganFantastic Finds

Financial Services Center, Inc.

Fluid SalonsGorsline-Runciman

Funeral HomesGrand Traverse Pie Co.Great Lakes Christian

CollegeHicks Brothers Real EstateHighfields, Inc.James Butler Consultants

Lansing Brewing CompanyLarry T. Schaefer, Inc.Lawless Farms, LLCLawton Group

DevelopmentLen’s Carpet CareLyle D. Hepfer & Co., PCMcLaren Greater LansingMetzger Realty Co., Inc.Michigan Health Council

North Winds Heating & Cooling, Inc.

Payne-Rosso CompanyPNCPotter Park Zoological

SocietyPrintwell Acquisitions, Inc.State of FitnessTwo Men And A Truck

Moving & Storage

Advanced Sleep Diagnostics of Michigan, Lansing7200 W Saginaw Hwy.Lansing, MI 48917 877-595-1090

Advanced Sleep Diagnostics of Michigan, Okemos2525 Jolly Rd Suite 240Okemos, MI 48864877-595-1090

Change Media Group1000 S. Washington Ave. #101 Lansing, MI 48910517-259-1947

Churchill Mortgage 2525 Jolly Rd.Okemos, MI 48864517-853-1343

Cottages of East Lansing 6170 Abbott Rd. East Lansing, MI 48823 517-348-9786

HeyYou! Mobile Marketing315 S Wisner St Jackson, MI 49203517-416-4170

ITS Education Management Group 1754 E. Clark Road Lansing. MI 48906 517-214-1880

Jessica Artibee, Farm Bureau Insurance411 W. Lake Lansing, Ste. A100 East Lansing, MI 48823517-833-4476

Keys to Creativity5746 W. Saginaw HighwayLansing, MI 48917517-657-2770

Lotsa Stone Fired Pizza 115 E. Grand River Ave. East Lansing, MI 48823 517-305-4400

Tandem Studios1916 W. Maple St. Lansing, MI 48915989-307-9157

TEKsystems300 South Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933517-318-4500

Transworld Business Advisors of Lansing5859 W. Saginaw Hwy. #164Lansing, MI 48917517-492-0039

Wayne-Dalton Sales Center of Lansing 16400 Felton Road Lansing, MI 48906 517-321-6098

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 www.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.

Greater Lansing Association of

REALTORS

65 years

Capitol Fundraising Associates

20 years

A.J. Boggs & Company

20 years

BS & A Software

10 years

City of Lansing

10 years

Flagstar Bank

5 years

US Signal

5 years

Hope Network Neuro

Rehabilitation

5 years

PBS KIDS and the PBS KIDS Logo are registered trademarks of Public Broadcasting Service. Used with permission. ODD SQUAD © 2016 The Fred Rogers Company. All Rights Reserved. DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD © 2016 The Fred Rogers Company. All rights reserved. Wild Kratts® © 2016 Kratt Brothers Co. Ltd./ 9 Story Media Group Inc. Wild Kratts®, Creature Power® are owned by Kratt Brothers Company Ltd. All rights reserved. SPLASH AND BUBBLES TM & © 2016 The Jim Henson Company. All Rights Reserved.

Join your friends anytime on WKAR’s all-new, 24-hour PBS KIDS channel!®

LEARN MORE at wkar.org

24/7 TVCHANNEL 23.4CABLE: ask your provider


Ingham, Eaton and Clinton Counties partner with Chamber and Michigan State University to form CAPCOG

IN JUNE OF 2016, a major regional partnership was announced that marked the first time that the three county governments and the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC), in partnership with Michigan State University’s Center for Local Government Finance and Policy, formally agreed to work together to address priority issues in the region. The LRCC and the Boards of Commissioners in Ingham, Eaton and Clinton Counties signed a Memorandum of Understanding designed to foster collaboration between the tri-counties to support regional economic growth and policy initiatives.

Who We Are

The Capitol Council of Governments (CAPCOG) is a partnership with Clinton, Eaton and Ingham Counties, the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce and Michigan State University.

Our Mission

The mission of CAPCOG is to work collaboratively between parties to support regional economic development and growth opportunities for the Greater Lansing region at the State Legislature.

Our Priorities

Infrastructure Investment and Public Transportation

• Investing in all aspects of our logistical infrastructure including highways, bridges, waterways, transit, railways, runways and drains, which are crucial to economic growth.

• Ensure safe and reliable transportation to connect the Greater Lansing region’s employers and employees.

Attract and Retain Talent

• Advocate for initiatives that foster innovation, entrepreneurship, skilled trades and promote economic opportunity to attract and retain talent.

Regulatory Streamlining

• Support initiatives that provide local units of government incentive to cooperate between each other to streamline delivery of services to avoid duplication.

VOICE OF BUSINESS

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network offers the complete insurance solution to protect the overall health and well-being of your employees.

Contact the Lansing Regional Chamber at 517-487-6340 for more information.

GROUP HEALTH PLANS | SPECIALTY BENEFITS | BCBSM.COM/EMPLOYERS

Give your employees what they deserve. Bagels on Fridays are a nice touch too.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. R054961

R054961_FOCUSAd.indd 1 5/11/16 9:34 AM


THE LANSING REGIONAL CHAMBER of Commerce (LRCC) has announced the winners of three major annual awards, which will be presented at the Chamber’s upcoming Annual Dinner. In addition, the Chamber will also make a special presentation of its prestigious Community Service Pioneer Award, which has only been presented five times in the 115 year history of the organization. The 2016 award recipients include:

• Paula Cunningham, Community Service Award

• Triterra, Outstanding Small Business Award• Lyman & Sheets Insurance Agency, Legacy

Award• Community Service Pioneer Award, Blue

Ribbon Committee to Keep GM

These exceptional regional business leaders and their organizations will be recognized for their accomplishments at the 105th Annual Dinner held on Thursday, February 16.

Paula Cunningham is one of Greater Lansing’s most recognized and successful business minds, leader and community servant. Paula serves as State Director for AARP in Michigan. Prior to her appointment, C u n n i n g h a m

courageously and successfully guided Capital National Bank through a stubborn economy as CEO beginning in 2006. In addition to these distinguished positions, Paula guided Lansing Community College as their President for six years where she successfully led a community millage campaign to generate an additional $9 million annually for the institution into perpetuity. The new Administration Building was named in her honor after she implemented an aggressive facilities master plan, which resulted in five new buildings in five years and increased faculty salaries. She is the only female in downtown Lansing with a building named after her. Paula has served with distinction on numerous community boards and currently serves on the boards of McLaren Health Systems, Davenport University, Children’s Leadership Council of Michigan, Greater Lansing Food Bank

Empty Plate Board and the City of Lansing’s Financial Health Team. She was honored with the ATHENA Leadership award in 2005 and is a member of the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame.

The Community Service Pioneer Award is being presented to the Blue Ribbon Committee to Keep GM. This coalition of community and business leaders was responsible for efforts to save General Motors presence in the Greater Lansing region in the 1990s. Not only were the heroic efforts successful in keeping GM in Lansing, the automaker eventually invested billions of dollars to renovate the Lansing Grand River assembly plant and construct the new Lansing/Delta Township production plant. Today, those plants are the most advanced, state-of-the-art auto manufacturing facilities in the world, and produce some of General Motors best-selling vehicles. Representing the Blue Ribbon Committee to Keep GM at the Annual Dinner will be former Lansing Mayor David Hollister, along with task force member Jack Davis, who was chair of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and task force member Ray Tadgerson. There have only been five previous winners of the Community Service Pioneer award, all of which were honored in 1984. They are: W.K. Prudden, R.E. Olds, George Washington Peckwith (Lansing’s first Postmaster and Mayor), Francis J. Carr and Charles A. Davis.

Triterra, which was formed in October 2008 by Alan Hooper and Don McNabb, will be honored with the Oustanding Small Business Award. Triterra was established as a professional environmental consulting firm that specialized in brownfield development, environmental consulting, and natural resource management services. Over the initial three years, and despite the tough economic conditions, Triterra experienced an approximate 20 percent annual growth rate, which exceeded their expectations. McNabb has guided the company the past three years as CEO and principal scientist. Since 2012, Triterra’s yearly revenue has significantly increased (345 percent), which includes a 39 percent increase from 2014 to 2015 and a 54 percent increase from 2015 to 2016.

Additionally, in 2016, Triterra’s growth resulted in moving from their small office in Old Town to a much larger (and spacious) office in REO Town. Triterra also remains in full growth mode, with plans to open one or more small office locations in Michigan in 2017.

Lyman & Sheets Insurance Agency will be honored with the Chamber Legacy Award in recognition of having been a loyal Chamber member since 1954. Lyman & Sheets was formed in Michigan by the state’s first insurance commissioner in 1874. Lyman & Sheets provides a broad choice of insurance products to clients in all 50 states and abroad. The company has grown steadily through the years, helping clients prepare for the unexpected with the right types of products including business insurance, personal insurance, risk management and employee benefits. Being named Legacy Award winner is special because the 22 employees at the firm are firmly committed to the Lansing region and recognize it as a great place to live and work.

Tickets for the Lansing Regional Chamber Annual Dinner are available by contacting Travis Richardson at 517-853-6463 or [email protected]. Registration and additional information can be found at www.lansingchamber.org.

Chamber Announces Winners of Community Service, Outstanding Small Business and Legacy AwardsLRCC TO HONOR BLUE RIBBON COMMITTEE TO KEEP GM WITH COMMUNITY SERVICE PIONEER AWARD AT 105TH ANNUAL DINNER ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16

#LOVELANSING

Cunningham

LANSING REGIONAL CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE 2017 ANNUAL DINNER

Thursday, February 16 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center


DEB MUCHMORE of Kandler Reed Khoury & Muchmore will serve as 2017 board chair of the Board of Directors of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC). Muchmore succeeds Joe Ford of Netvantage Marketing who will remain on the board as past chair. April Clobes of MSUFCU will serve as chair elect and is in line to serve as board chair in 2018.

“Nothing is more central to the purpose of the Chamber than working to create a climate where businesses can succeed, enabling our region’s economy to thrive and lift everyone who lives here,” Muchmore said. “A healthy business community drives the Chamber’s ability to deliver top-notch programs for employers and their employees, and be the strong advocacy voice for business. In 2017, the Chamber board will continue our focus on policies that improve member value and drive regional economic health.”

In addition to Muchmore, Ford, and Clobes, LRCC Board Officers in 2017 will be: Steve Owen, Foster, Swift, Collins, & Smith, P.C. (Legal Counsel); Jeff Fineis, Andrews Hooper Pavlik PLC (Treasurer); and Tim Daman, who continues to serve as LRCC president and chief executive officer.

The 32-member board includes five newcomers: Lisa O’Connor, Publicom; Van Martin, CBRE|Martin; Steve Notar Donato, General Motors; Wendy Hamilton, TechSmith; and Tonia Olson, Granger. We are also pleased to expand board partnerships in 2017 to include ATHENA WIN, the Lansing Black Chamber of Commerce and Greater Lansing Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Deb Muchmore of Kandler Reed Khoury & Muchmore to Lead 2017 Board of DirectorsAPRIL CLOBES OF MSUFCU TO SERVE AS CHAIR-ELECT

#LOVELANSING

Muchmore Ford Clobes

O’Connor

Owen

Burnham

Fineis

Dean

Daman

Resch

Officers (One Year Appointment)Chair of the Board: Deb Muchmore, Kandler

Reed Khoury & MuchmorePast Chair: Joe Ford, Netvantage

MarketingChair Elect: April Clobes, MSUFCULegal Counsel: Steve Owen, Foster, Swift,

Collins & Smith, P.C.Treasurer: Jeff Fineis, Andrews

Hooper Pavlik PLCPresident: Tim Daman, Lansing

Regional Chamber of Commerce

Division DirectorsMarketing & Communication:

*Lisa O’Connor, PublicomRegionalism Initiatives: Mark Burnham, Michigan State UniversityMember Services:Patrick Dean, Dean TransportationGovernment Relations:Matt Resch, Resch Strategies

At-Large MembersDavid Baker, Farm Bureau Insurance CompanyDenise Droscha, Two Men & A TruckJenn Dubey, University Club Tom Mee, McLaren Greater LansingSteve Reynolds, Accident Fund Holdings, Inc.Fathy Shetiah, 7C LingoLauren Aitch, Our Own ProductsStella Cash, Sparrow Health System

*Van Martin, CBRE|Martin*Steve Notar Donato, General MotorsBill Woodbury, Auto-Owners Insurance, Co.David Zyble, Jackson National Life InsuranceDavid Ferguson, Ferguson Development

*Wendy Hamilton, TechSmithTeri Hull, Dart Container

*Tonia Olson, GrangerTom Stewart, Common Wealth Enterprises

Board Partnerships LEAP, Inc. Bob Trezise, LEAP, Inc.

Grand River Connection *Tyler Dyke, State of Michigan

ATHENA WIN *Jenn Sturdy, PNC Bank

Lansing Black Chamber of Commerce *Reshane Lonzo, DRM Health Care

Greater Lansing Hispanic Chamber *Jose Yanez, Full Circle Financial Planning

* Signifies new member


The new session of the Michigan Legislature represents an historic first for the Greater Lansing region. Lawmakers in both parties have selected a Lansing area Representative to assume the most powerful positions in the State House of Representatives. Rep. Tom Leonard (R-Dewitt)

was elected as Speaker of the House and Rep. Sam Singh (D-East Lansing) was chosen as House Minority Leader. Leonard is the first local lawmaker to be Speaker of the House since Henry Shaw from Eaton County in 1859.

Speaker Leonard was first elected to serve the 93rd District in the Michigan House of Representatives in November 2012. The 93rd District encompasses Clinton County and portions of Gratiot County including the City of Ithaca. Prior to being a State Representative, Leonard served as an Assistant Attorney General for the State of Michigan and was a prosecutor for Genesee County, where he was assigned to the Special Crimes Division.

House Minority Leader Singh is serving his third term representing Michigan’s 69th House District, which includes East Lansing, Haslett, Okemos, Williamstown Township and Locke Township. He also served as the Democratic Floor Leader in his second term. Before serving in the legislature, Singh was elected to the East Lansing City Council at age 24. He served 10 years on council including one term as mayor.

Prior to the launch of the new State House session, Leonard and Singh sat down for an interview with FOCUS magazine. The two talked about a wide range of issues of interest to the business community and how their ascension to prominent legislative leadership positions could impact the region.

FOCUS: What does having the two of you in such prominent positions mean for the region?

Speaker Leonard: I think it’s a huge benefit for our region. Sam and I have worked very well together over the past few years. Though we love to work together, one of the things that make the Capitol Caucus a little bit more difficult sometimes than your Grand Rapids side or southeast Michigan is that we are such a big make-up of both Republicans and Democrats. So, we

do have to come together and work things out. Now that we see the top two leaders in the House being from the Capitol Caucus, it will be that much easier to make that happen.

Leader Singh: I think we have had a number of real good victories as the Capitol Caucus. When you take a look at Michigan State University and the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) project, those were significant priorities for the Caucus, and as we go forward, I look forward to working with Speaker Leonard and the rest of the Capitol Caucus to see what we can do to help the region grow and prosper.

FOCUS: How do you balance your commitment to serving the local region with your broader responsibilities to represent the whole state?

Leader Singh: When you create good policy for the state it will benefit our local communities. I am always focused on a statewide responsibility. At the same time, I came out of local government. I was always focused on a regional basis.

To me, the City of East Lansing could only be successful if the townships around us and the City of Lansing were successful. Always coming from a regional perspective makes it easy when coming from a statewide perspective. If the rest of the state isn’t feeling economic success, our communities here won’t feel that success as well.

Speaker Leonard: I have already told many of the local elected officials in my district that it is a great honor for the local area to have the Speaker of the House. But, at the same time, there is going to be some sacrifice. I won’t always be able to attend some of the smaller events that I have always attended in my community because I will be so wrapped up in

negotiations on big bills and policy discussions here in Lansing. The last four years, I have been able to be laser focused on issues that were of interest to my particular district. Now, I believe that I have a responsibility to help all of the other 109 members in their districts the best that I can. Sometimes they may have interests in their districts that may conflict with my district and that’s something I am going to have to take into account.

History

House Minority Leader Sam Singh (left) and Speaker of the House Tom Leonard (right).

Under the Capitol Dome


FOCUS: Obviously, there are many policy differences between the parties. What is the relationship like between the two of you and how do you feel you will be able to work together?

Leader Singh: We start off having a good relationship because we came in together during the same election cycle. I look forward to these next two years. I think we are going to have a number of common areas around policy, especially when we look at skilled trades training and how we look at criminal justice reform. There will be areas where we disagree, but I think both Tom and I have had the opportunity over the last session to disagree with each other but to do that in a civil way, so we could come back the next day and look at the next issue on which we could work together.

Speaker Leonard: When you look at what we have been able to accomplish just in the last term, something like 85 to 90 percent of the legislation that passed the State House was done in a bipartisan way. It is usually that 10 percent that gets caught up in the media and I understand that. As Sam said, we are going to have our battles and I am not going to shy away from that. One of the things that I have been really harping on is the idea of bringing more stability to our political process. This last election cycle was one of the most uncivil in our nation’s history. I don’t think it was just on the federal level, it went all the way down to the local level, and it was a bipartisan instability, if you will. We are going to have our battles, but I believe we need to do so in a respectful and dignified way that is going to bring civility to the process.

FOCUS: What are your top three legislative priorities?

Speaker Leonard: 1. Addressing our teacher pension system. This is a situation that is costing our local school districts about 36 percent of the payroll. I believe that all current teacher pensions are constitutionally protected. When I talk about pension reform, I am talking about new hires going forward, so we can try to lower those costs and get more money into the classrooms, and hopefully give our hard-working teachers more raises.

2. Mental health reform. Right now in our prison system, about 25 percent of the population suffers from some type of mental illness. That triples the cost of $38,000 that we pay for the average inmate. We need to look at earlier intervention. We need to help folks get on their medication before they commit that heinous crime. Once somebody has murdered somebody or harmed a family, it doesn’t matter whether they are mentally ill or not. At that point it is too late. If we can get folks the help they need before they commit the crime, I think it is not only the right thing to do but could also be a huge cost savings.

3. Skilled trades. We have thousands of jobs that are not being filled: plumbers, pipefitters, electricians, very good paying jobs. We need to make certain that

we are training our men and women so we have that talent to fill those positions.

Leader Singh: 1. I start off with making sure we have balance in funding our key institutions. The Governor has a report on his desk that shows we have underfunded education. I want to see how we get additional resources back into those classrooms. One of the reasons why school districts are struggling with their legacy costs is because the dollars and resources haven’t come down to them. We have taken over $400 million every year and moved it out of the school aid fund towards higher education.

2. Revenue sharing. You ask any municipal leader, Republican or Democrat, anywhere in the state, the fact that $6 billion have been taken away from local government to balance the state budget has really put them into a precarious situation. That’s why we have less police officers, less firefighters on the streets. That is why they are struggling with their legacy costs.

3. The Michigan economy is not working for all Michigan citizens. To me we have to make sure that happens. Part of that is making sure there is training for skilled trades. Part of that is if you are working two jobs trying to make ends meet, we should be helping you out. We used to have a robust income tax credit that would go to those families working two jobs. We typically give out all these tax credits to a lot of companies, often times to companies that don’t always need those types of tax credits. Why would we not give those to those citizens that are working trying to make ends meet?

Also, we are having a lot of bipartisan discussion about how we bring down the costs of higher education for families.

FOCUS: The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce has been very involved in working with local municipalities to address unfunded liabilities, being involved with the Financial Health Teams in both Lansing and East Lansing. What steps should this legislature take to address what is a statewide issue?

Speaker Leonard: We certainly have to bring people to the table to discuss this. There was a package of bills that was introduced in the lame duck session. Obviously things were moving way too quickly and the timing wasn’t right. We met with the police and firefighters associations. Everyone acknowledged there is a problem. I

don’t believe there is going to be one silver bullet to fix this problem. I look forward to everyone coming to the table to figure out how best to solve this.

Leader Singh: I was pleased to see us slow the process down during lame duck so we can take a look at a more comprehensive and inclusive approach. Legacy costs are an issue for local communities. I had to grapple with that as the Mayor of the City of East Lansing. At the same time, cities are doing things that are making their communities more efficient. East Lansing has 100 fewer city employees than they did when I was starting out on the City


Council. When you have 100 less people, obviously your costs are coming down, but you also don’t have the same number of employees putting resources back into the pension or other long-term liabilities. I think you have to look at a balance where efficiencies can be rewarded.

FOCUS: There are many in the business community advocating to bring back larger incentives to encourage development, which the current administration has moved away from. What do you feel is the proper balance in the use of incentives to attract and retain investment and jobs in Michigan?

Speaker Leonard: I am not a big fan or proponent incentives. Some people like to call it corporate welfare. I don’t know that I would go that far, but it is certainly not something I like to get in the middle of. However, I know there are always exceptions to the rule and I certainly want to take a look at these bills (brought up in the lame duck session). When you start talking about a developer or an investor being 100 percent on the hook and you start talking about absolutely no incentives unless it is a net increase in the budget, I think those are discussions we need to have.

Leader Singh: As Mayor in East Lansing, I used incentives in a targeted way in dealing with development. I think in communities where you have existing infrastructure and you want to change that infrastructure, you sometimes need an incentive. The Governor made a decision in 2011 that he wasn’t going to have an incentive-based economic plan and because of that he made significant tax cuts to businesses. That was supposed to be an offset, so you wouldn’t need incentives because tax rates would be at a certain level. Now it becomes very difficult to reconfigure an incentive program, because now we see fairly limited business taxes going into the overall general fund. How do we create incentive plans that will work and at the same time doesn’t harm other parts of the state budget?

FOCUS: Efforts to change no-fault automobile insurance legislation have failed to make it through the legislature despite many efforts in recent years. What can the two caucuses agree on in an effort to curb auto insurance rates in Michigan, which remain some of the highest in the nation?

Speaker Leonard: This is not necessarily the most important, but it is the toughest issue to solve in the legislature. The one issue I would hope we can all come together on is if somebody is injured in an auto accident the payment to the provider, particularly to the hospital is typically four to five and sometimes one hundred times higher than what a commercial health insurance company pays. If we are ever going to see true cost savings for our citizens we have to find a way to rein in these costs.

Leader Singh: One of the biggest obstacles for Democrats has been the unwillingness of the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association and the insurance companies that support that to really understand what the financial underpinnings are. The legislature created that instrument

to help the insurance companies. We have asked for that to be open and the books to be inspected so we understand what the true cost mechanisms are for the insurance companies. We don’t need to do it in a public fashion so it is in the media, but in a way that we can understand what those dynamics are. That would be helpful for us in determining what types of reforms you make based on the information.

FOCUS: The legislature passed an infrastructure bill a couple of years ago. Increases in registration fees and gas taxes are just now being felt. However, some suggest we need to do more to effectively address infrastructure needs. What, if any, legislation do you expect to further upgrade Michigan’s infrastructure?

Speaker Leonard: Like the plan or not, it will be a $1.2 billion investment in our infrastructure once it is phased in. One thing I talk to constituents about and they certainly agree, this last construction cycle we saw more yellow cones and orange barrels than you have in years. We are going to see at least that in the next construction cycle and it is only going to ramp up. I want to see what is going to happen on the federal level. President-elect Trump has said several times that he wants to invest a trillion dollars in our national infrastructure. The last thing I want to do is start getting out ahead of them if they are actually going to invest more money in the infrastructure in our state.

Leader Singh: My biggest critique of the plan that passed a year and a half ago was it didn’t reach that $1.2 billion level quick enough. I’ve seen reports that say we probably needed two billion. When you have to wait until 2021 to get to that $1.2 billion, even though there might be new revenue coming into the system, it is not the level that is needed. So every year we don’t hit that $1.2 billion we are actually taking a few steps back. At the same time, there is a larger concern facing the state. The Governor had a report that came out in December that addressed underground infrastructure - our water and swear systems. We have to figure out how to solve that.

FOCUS: When you finish in your current positions in two years, what will success look like?

Speaker Leonard: An economy that has continued to grow. Over the last six years, nearly 500,000 private sector jobs have been created. I want to see that continue to increase. If we can walk out of here in two years and we can say the Michigan economy is healthier today than it was two years ago when we became leaders, I personally feel we will be successful.

Leader Singh: I want to make sure that this economy is working for all people. For those people that have not felt this economy meet their needs, I want us to be able to say that we moved the needle on that. When we take a look at our local communities, whether it is a school district, city or a township, how have we adequately funded them? Those are going to be key metrics for me to see if we’ve had success.

History Under the Capitol Dome

“If we can walk out of here in two years and

we can say the Michigan economy is

healthier today than it was two years

ago when we became leaders,

I personally feel we will be

successful.”

House Speaker Tom Leonard

“I want to make sure that this economy is

working for all people. For those

people that have not felt this economy meet their needs, I want us to be

able to say that we moved the

needle on that.”

House Minority Leader

Sam Singh


House Speaker Tom Leonard (R-Dewitt) and House Minority Leader Sam Singh (D-East Lansing) will lead the 10-member bipartisan Capitol Caucus. This group of lawmakers work across the aisle to support legislation that benefits the Greater Lansing region.

Senator Curtis Hertel Jr. (D) - District 23

Senator Curtis Hertel Jr. was elected in 2014 to serve Michigan’s 23rd Senate District, which encompasses most of Ingham County. Prior to his time in

the State Senate, Hertel served as an Ingham County Commissioner from 2001 until 2008, the Legislative Liaison for the Department of Community Health under Governor Granholm from 2005 until 2008, and Ingham County Register of Deeds from 2009 until 2015. Senator Hertel will serve as Minority Whip in this legislative session.

Senator Rick Jones (R) - District 24

Senator Rick Jones was first elected to the Michigan Senate in November 2010 to represent the residents of the 24th District, including Clinton, Eaton and Shiawassee

Counties and Leroy Township, Wheatfield Township, Williamston and Williamston Township in Ingham County. He was re-elected for a second term in 2014. Jones received a Bachelor’s Degree from Michigan State University and Executive Leadership Training from Central Michigan University. Senator Jones will serve as chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee and assistant majority caucus chair.

Representative Tom Cochran (D) - District 67

Representative Tom Cochran is serving his third term representing Michigan’s 67th House District, which includes Mason, Stockbridge,

Leslie, Webberville, Williamston, Dansville, Holt, Onondaga and South Lansing. Cochran has a

strong local work history as a 29½-year veteran of the Lansing City Fire Department. His career began as a firefighter and paramedic, where he served as union representative and president of the International Association of Fire Fighters Lansing Local 421 for 10 years.

Representative Andy Schor (D) - District 68

Representative Andy Schor is in his third term representing residents of the 68th House District, which includes most of the city of Lansing and all of Lansing Township.

Before coming to the House, Schor served for 10 years as an Ingham County Commissioner. Before that, Schor worked for State Senator Gary Peters (now U.S. Senator Peters) for five years and for State Representative Paul Condino for two years. He also served in Governor Jennifer Granholm’s administration.

Representative Brett Roberts (R) - District 65

Representative Brett Roberts was first elected to serve the 65th District in the Michigan House of Representatives in November 2014. The 65th House

District includes Springport, Tompkins, Rives, Blackman, Henrietta, Leoni, Waterloo, Grass Lake, Norvell, Columbia and Liberty Townships in Jackson County. The district also includes Cambridge Township in Lenawee County and the City of Eaton Rapids along with Hamlin, Eaton and Brookfield townships in Eaton County. A sixth-generation Michigan farmer, Roberts has more than 20 years of experience with row crops and is currently a Syngenta seed advisor. Roberts also owns and operates the local Dairy Queen in Charlotte.

Representative Tom Barrett (R) - District 71

Representative Tom Barrett was first elected to serve the 71st District in the Michigan House of Representatives in November 2014. The 71st District

encompasses most of Eaton County including the cities of Charlotte, Olivet, Potterville, Grand Ledge, parts of Lansing, as well as the townships of Bellevue, Benton, Carmel, Chester, Delta Charter Eaton Rapids, Kalamo, Oneida Charter, Roxand, Sunfield, Vermontville, Walton, and Windsor Charter. After graduating public high school, Barrett joined the U.S. Army and continued his service for over 15 years. After returning home from Iraq, Barrett was hired as an analyst by the Michigan Department of Treasury and worked at the operations center in Dimondale.

Representative Julie Calley (R) - District 87

Representative Julie Calley was elected to serve in 2016. She attended Ionia High School, followed by attaining a business management degree from Northwood

University. Calley served eight years on the Ionia County Board of Commissioners, three of those leading the board as Chairperson. In 2011, Calley was appointed by Governor Snyder to the Michigan Community Service Commission. Her focus as been the promotion of mentoring, literacy and volunteerism. In 2015, Calley was elected as Chairperson.

Representative Ben Frederick (R) - District 85

Representative Ben Frederick was first elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in November 2016. He represents the 85th

District, which includes Shiawassee County and Brady, Brant, Chapin, Chesaning, Fremont, Jonesfield, Lakefield, Maple Grove, Marion and Richland townships in Saginaw County. Prior to his election to the Legislature in 2016, Frederick served as a legislative staff member for 14 years in both the Michigan House and Senate, including time as chief of staff to former State Senator Roger Kahn, M.D., of Saginaw. Locally, Frederick served on the Owosso City Council since 2007 and was city’s youngest mayor, holding that office for seven years.

2017-18 Capitol Caucus


Driven Collision Center: Driven to Improve

FOCUS ON SMALL BUSINESS

IT CAME TO HIM IN A DREAM — the name and logo, that is. The rest was a result of a great opportunity and timing.

It all began in 2010 when Phil Tripp opened Tripp’s Auto Shop’s second location in Lansing, Michigan.

Joe Laird had the honor of running the new location for the first three years before Brandon Tripp, Phil’s son, took over. Brandon continued the growth and success of Tripp’s Auto Shop of Lansing but always longed for something of his own.

In late 2015, Brandon and Laird sat down with Phil to discuss their dream of buying the Lansing location. With Phil running for Michigan State Representative, it was a perfect time to lighten his workload and pass the torch. After six months of red tape, mountains of paperwork and financing, Driven Collision Center opened on April 1, 2016.

Driven Collision Center is an 18,000 square-foot facility filled with state of the art equipment. It has everything from a vehicle frame-straightening bench with precise laser measuring to a resistance spot welder for matching vehicle manufactures welds exactly.

“We have really invested in equipment to make sure your vehicle is repaired quickly and most importantly correctly,” said Brandon. “We have added all energy efficient LED lighting throughout the whole shop, upgraded our computer systems and have added a high-tech vehicle scanner to help better diagnose vehicle repairs. We have even invested in purchasing loaner vehicles, so customers will have a vehicle to drive while their car is being fixed. There is no job too big or small for us to handle.”

Since the grand opening, the two owners have made it a priority to ensure that both their employees and their customers are happy and satisfied, also becoming active in the community that surrounds and supports them.

“We are building this business on transparency and integrity, and giving back to the community in which we live and work,” said Laird. “So far this year we have been fortunate enough to be able to sponsor the BWL Chili Cook-off, Sparrow Foundation and the Lansing Hope Promise Balloon festival, just to name a few.”

The name and logo came to Brandon in a dream. The slogan, “Driven to exceed your expectations,” was an idea of Laird’s. Together with the combination of all of their ideas, experiences and know-how, they have been able to transform their auto body collision repair shop into a place they can call their own.

Business loans are only available to Michigan-based businesses. All loans are subject to credit approval. Federally insured by NCUA.

Buying • Refinancing • Working Capital

We offer flexible term loans and lines of credit that are customized to fit your business needs:

• Commercial real estate• Vehicle and equipment loans• Visa Credit Cards• SBA loans

Contact MSUFCU today.517-333-2365 • 800-678-4968msufcu.org/business

MSUFCU Business Loans

Joe Laird and Brandon Tripp


PEOPLE NEWS

Bergmann Associates is pleased to announce that Guy Halsey joins the firm as a senior electrical designer in the Lansing office. Before coming to Bergmann, Guy worked for Clark Trombley Randers as a senior electrical designer.

LAFCU has announced the promotion of Lindsay Walters to the new position of director of organizational development. In this position, Walters serves as liaison and advisor to LAFCU’s leadership regarding development and implementation of initiatives

that positively influence personnel and group, team and work units within the organization. She is also responsible for human resource programs that help employees achieve operational objectives and strategic business and professional goals.

Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Business Consultants is pleased to announce that Wendy Thompson, CPA, was recently honored with the most prestigious award bestowed by the firm, the Spirit of Yeo award. The Spirit of Yeo award recognizes an individual within

the firm who exemplifies the attributes of the firm’s mission and core values. Thompson is Yeo & Yeo’s training manager and was recently recognized for ten years of service to the firm. She researches and teaches all aspects of accounting, compilations, reviews, audits and nonprofit tax returns.

Bergmann Associates is pleased to announce that Jared Platte has joined the firm as a mechanical designer in Lansing. Before coming to Bergmann, Jared worked for Matrix Consulting Engineers as a mechanical designer.

Associated Builders and Contractors Greater Michigan Chapter (ABC) announces new Board of Directors leadership for 2017. The incoming offers are as follows: chairman – Jeff Kipfmiller, Answer Heating & Cooling; vice chairman – Steve Russell, A/C Electric; secretary – Ed Tanzini, The Tancor Corporation; treasurer – Mike Laundra, Alloy Construction Services, Inc.; immediate past chairman – Brian Stadler, Wolgast Corporation; 2017 Directors: Dan Kozakiewicz, Three Rivers Corporation; Erick Forshee, Fisher Companies; Dave Mollitor, Consolidated Electrical

Contractors; Doug Shafer, Shafer Redi-Mix; Jason Johnson, J.E. Johnson, Inc.; Mike Marks, MacKenzie Companies; and Mike Parsons, Valley Electrical Contractors, Inc.

The certified public accounting firm of Maner Costerisan is pleased to announce David A. Henson was recently hired as business development manager. Henson rejoined the Maner Costerisan team in 2016. He previously worked at the firm from 2008 to 2012

as an accountant. In his current role, Henson is responsible for working with accountants and clients on technology issues and growing the firm’s cloud technology division which includes sales and support for Intacct, the fastest growing cloud-based ERP solution as well as Microsoft’s Office 365 and Dynamics 365 cloud solutions.

Little Jasmen Victoria Lopez’s relatives were already eagerly awaiting her birth as the first “little princess” in a family of boys – they didn’t know she would also become a mini-celebrity as Sparrow’s, and the mid-Michigan region’s, first New Year’s Baby of 2017. Jasmen was born at 12:26 a.m. to Castro and Dad Steven E. Lopez Jr. She weighed 6 pounds, 9 ounces, measuring 20 inches. She joins brothers Jeremy, 5, and Steven III, who turned 2 on Jan. 13.

Fraser Trebilcock attorney Marlaine C. Teahan was honored for her service as co-chair of the Probate and Trust Section of the Ingham County Bar Association (ICBA) at the 2016 ICBA Annual Dinner. Marlaine served in the leadership position for five years, recently

stepping down at the end of the 2015-2016 term.

Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Business Consultants is pleased to announce A.J. Licht, CPA, as the leader of the firm’s Construction Services Group. He will be responsible for the strategic direction and management of the firm’s state-

wide Group, and oversee the Group’s business development, training and staff development. Licht is a manager with six years of public accounting experience. His areas of expertise include business consulting for management, financial reporting and tax planning and preparation with an emphasis in the construction sector, review and compilation services, and accounting software consulting.

Chad M. Kresnak, O.D. has joined Mid-Michigan’s largest eye care practice, L.O. Eye Care, formerly Lansing Ophthalmology. Dr. Kresnak will be seeing patients at the Lake Odessa office as John Hemming, O.D is retiring at the end of the month. Dr. Kresnak will join

existing providers in serving the community of Grand Ledge.

Bergmann Associates is pleased to announce that Chloe Aalsburg joins the firm as an interior designer in Lansing. Before coming to Bergmann, Chloe worked for DMC Design as a residential interior design intern in Grand Rapids.

The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) is pleased to announce the addition of Josh Holliday, Tri-County development & placemaking manager, to its staff. Josh previously served as the program manager for the Arts Council of Greater Lansing, coordinating, marketing and implementing smARTS – a professional development program for creatives; overseeing six funding initiatives that provided more than $275,000 in grants, along with implementing and managing Placemaking driven initiatives throughout the region.

Fraser Trebilcock attorney Elizabeth H. Latchana was recently elected to the Board of Directors of the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan. The Food Bank works with more than 400 partner agencies to provide more than 25 million pounds of food each year to people in need,

across 22 counties in eastern Michigan.

Siena Wealth Advisors is pleased to announce the addition of Patrick Haug to their team of advisors. He is a certified public accountant (CPA) and has been with Siena Accounting for just over a year. He has a B.A. in Economics and a B.A. in Finance, both from Michigan State University.

Rehmann a fully integrated financial services firm, has hired Lynn Henley as the director of client services and business development for the Firm’s

MEMBERS ON THE MOVE

Halsey

Platte

Licht

Kresnak

Aalsburg

Latchana

Henson

Walters

Thompson

Teahan


MEMBERS ON THE MOVE

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Lansing and Jackson offices. Henley brings 20 years of experience and most recently served as the vice president, business development officer and community consultant for greater Michigan with PNC Bank.

A Sparrow Clinton Hospital Nurse’s special care of her Patients helped earn her the hospital’s DAISY Award for exceptional nursing skills. Kara George, BSN, of St. Johns, developed a passion for nursing at age 19 when she lost her mother in a tragic car accident. George gained praise from her patients for her kindness, listening skills, and ability to calm frayed nerves during stressful situations.

ASTI Environmental’s president and director of brownfield redevelopment, Tom Wackerman, will lead a Roundtable Discussion entitled, Update on Changes to Incentives and Environmental Regulations in Michigan at ICSCs Continuing Education Program (International Council of Shopping Centers) February 9, 2017 from 8:00

- 9:45 a.m. at Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, MI.

Bergmann Associates is pleased to announce that Richard Keuneke joins the firm as a senior architectural designer in the Lansing office. Before coming to Bergmann, Richard worked for Hobbs + Black Architects as a senior architectural designer in Lansing.

Three Sparrow volunteers have been honored by Sparrow Hospice Services for their outstanding service in 2016 and for providing exceptional and compassionate end-of-life care. Alan Harris of East Lansing, Bill Kandler of Lansing, and Sue Thelen of Westphalia, relentlessly go above and beyond to offer transformative care for Patients and their families experiencing life’s final transition. Harris is the recipient of the 2016 Home Hospice Volunteer of the Year Award. Thelen is the recipient of the 2016 Hospice House Volunteer of the Year award for providing companionship to Patients, aiding staff, and offering countless hours of assistance. Each year, Sparrow Hospice Services also presents the Betty Geller Award Celebrating the Spirit of Hospice Care. Kandler, the 2016 recipient, has volunteered in the program since 1998, providing companionship and comfort to both Patients and families. He expresses an appreciation for the

Caregiving staff by bringing breakfast to them each week, and serves as an ambassador for Hospice House in the mid-Michigan region.

Karen Kent VanGorder, M.D., has been named Sparrow Health System’s new senior vice president – chief medical and quality officer. Dr. Kent VanGorder will be a champion for quality and Provider leadership for Sparrow. Dr. Kent VanGorder, of Haslett, is a family Physician and has been a valued member of the Sparrow

team since 1993, providing excellent Patient care, educating Sparrow’s next generation of Physicians, and guiding the growth and development of Sparrow’s Medical Staff.

After serving on the ABC Greater Michigan Chapter Board of Directors since 2012, Answer Heating & Cooling Commercial Sales Manager, Jeff Kipfmiller was nominated as chairman of the board by the ABC membership. He will be replacing Brian Stadler, president of Wolgast Corporation of Saginaw. Kipfmiller has been involved with ABC over the years in various capacities including the Government Affairs committee, past PAC/FEA committee chairman and is looking forward to taking more of a leadership role within the Association.

MSU Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce the recent promotions of Jim Hunsanger and Rob Johnson to executives of the newly-formed Risk Management Department. Hunsanger was promoted to chief risk officer and Johnson to chief internal auditor. Rob

KeunekeKent VanGorder

Sparrow Clinton Hospital Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Patient Care Services; and Mary Lou Wesley, Sparrow Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, celebrate with Sparrow Clinton Hospital DAISY Award winner Kara George, BSN; and Mariah Hesse, BSN, Sparrow Clinton Hospital Patient Care Manager.

Harris

Hunsager

Kandler Thelen


MEMBERS ON THE MOVE

Johnson has worked at the Credit Union since 2012. He formerly served as senior compliance auditor, before being promoted to internal audit manager in 2014. Jim Hunsanger has been with MSUFCU since 2011 and prior to his new role, he served as Vice President of Internal Audit and Compliance.

Maner Costerisan is pleased to announce Steven P. Piesko, CPA, is a member of the firm’s Board of Directors effective January 1, 2017. Piesko began his career in accounting at Maner Costerisan in 1999. He serves as a principal in the firm’s audit department and oversees

engagements with small businesses, education, and nonprofit organizations. He serves as a principal in the firm’s audit department and oversees engagements with small businesses, education, and nonprofit organizations. Piesko is head of the Education Niche and the director of marketing.

The ASU Group, a claims management and insurance services company, has added a new member to its’ Board of Directors effective December 13, 2016 – Annette E. Flood. She is the former director of the Department of Insurance and Financial Services and Insurance

Commissioner for the state of Michigan. She has also served as chief operating officer for AP Capital/American Physicians Assurance Corporation and MEEMIC Insurance Company. She is currently a principal of Clinton Flood Insurance Consulting, LLC, which provides consulting services for insurance companies and related entities.

People take notice and celebrate when the bell rings at Sparrow Ionia Hospital’s Specialty Infusion/Visiting Physicians Clinic – it means another cancer

Patient has completed treatment and is beginning a whole new chapter in their life. The “Celebration Bell” was donated to the unit by Kelli Weeks, 39, of Saranac, who completed her chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer in August. Weeks said her initial diagnosis – especially at such a young age – was a “devastating shock.”

The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) is pleased to announce the addition of Victoria

Meadows, director of marketing, communications, and talent, to its staff. Victoria began her career with LEAP on Tuesday, January 3, 2017. Victoria joins LEAP after 20 years at Lansing Community College (LCC) as LCC’s Library communications manager, where she worked to build awareness of and engagement with students, faculty, and staff on behalf of the Library.

Willingham & Cotè, P.C. is pleased to announce that Theodore (“Ted”) Marshall and Zachary (Zach) Zurek have joined the firm. Both attorneys are members of the firm’s Litigation Group, with an emphasis on insurance coverage and defense. Mr. Marshall earned his law degree in 2016 at Wayne State University School of Law, and was recently admitted to the Bar. While in Law School he served as the President of The Federalist Society and participated in the Wayne State Business and Community Law Clinic. Mr. Zurek earned his law

degree in 2012 at the University of Michigan Law School has successfully represented clients at both the trial and appellate level.

Julie Pingston, senior vice president and chief operating officer with the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau, received recognition by the Arts Council of Greater Lansing on December 6 as recipient of the 2016 Ted Sondag Individual Leadership Award for her dedication and support of the growth of arts and culture in Greater Lansing.

Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Business Consultants is pleased to announce Michael A. Georges, CPA, as the leader of the firm’s Not-for-Profit Services Group. He will lead the strategic direction and management of the firm’s state-wide Group, and oversee the Group’s business

development, training and staff development. Georges is a principal with more than 30 years of public accounting experience, and a passion for working with not-for-profits.

Rehmann has named Sandy Shecter, CPA, director of the firm’s accounting, consulting & tax (ACT) department. She will assume the role on January 1, 2017. Shecter has been with the firm for 27 years and serves as a principal in the ACT department. She chaired Rehmann’s Women’s Initiative Network (WIN), led the firm’s tax internal inspections and is a member of the firm’s Healthcare Leadership group.

LAFCU’s Senior Vice President of Marketing Kelli Ellsworth Etchison has been awarded the C. Colton Carr Exemplary Volunteer of the Year Service Award by the YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing. Ellsworth Etchison has volunteered at the Lansing Y since 2009, recently serving as chairperson for the 32-member board of directors in addition to chairing the executive committee, which provides support and direction to the CEO.

PM Environmental is proud to announce the addition of Curtis (Curt) Lichy, P.G., as regional retail petroleum services manager. Located in Berkley, Mich., Lichy will be responsible for all aspects of the technical quality and management of PM’s major petroleum clients.

The Mason Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2017 board of directors has voted in new officers for the year. John Sabbadin of the Mason Firefighters Association was elected president, Don Kill of the Mason Optimist Club was selected as vice president, and Aaron Fiedler of Fiedler Insurance Agency was tapped for the treasurer’s position. Mark Voss

Marshall

Weeks

Johnson

Zurek

Piesko

Flood

Georges

Presenting the YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing’s C. Colton Carr Exemplary Volunteer of the Year Service Award to LAFCU’s Kelli Ellsworth Etchison, second from right, are, from left, the Lansing Y’s Cheri Schimmel, development director, Larry Leatherwood, board member, and Jeff Scheibel, president and CEO.

Sabbadin

Voss

Kill

Ring

Fiedler

Waltz


MEMBERS ON THE MOVE

of Mark Voss Insurance Agency moved to the office of past president. The 2017 board of directors also includes Ron Drzewicki of Mason Public Schools, Kassie Rhodes of Dart Bank, Ian Richardson of Doberman Technologies, Scott Ring of MSU Federal Credit Union, Mike Waltz of the City of Mason, Amy Hanson of Independent Bank, Joyce Grinczel of Dart Container Corporation, Don Waskiewicz of Deep Blue Insights, and Desiree Waters of ServiceMaster Absolute.

COMPANY NEWS

A new driver service that provides independence for seniors and peace of mind for their loved ones has been expanded throughout Michigan from the Greater Lansing area where it was first launched in 2014. DriverOnCall provides a personal driver to chauffeur clients in their own vehicles. The service

is tailored to the needs of seniors and costs $25 per hour with a minimum of one hour per reservation. It is for those who have a car but are no longer able to drive or prefer not to drive for whatever reason, such as inclement weather or after dark. Reservations are available at 888-713-7483. Reservations made 24 hours in advance are recommended.

Spartan Motors, Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAR), a global leader in specialty chassis and vehicle design, manufacturing, and assembly, announced its wholly-owned subsidiary, Spartan Motors USA, Inc., has finalized the acquisition of Smeal Fire Apparatus Co., an industry-leading innovator and manufacturer of fire apparatus in North America, and its subsidiaries for $36.3 million. The acquisition will enable Spartan Motors to strengthen its Emergency Response business, gain scale and geographic reach in the industry, and accelerate its Emergency Response business unit turnaround plan.

NAI Mid-Michigan/TMN Commercial is pleased to announce the sale of 5094 Grand River - Watertown Township. This multi-building industrial complex was purchased by Outdoor Specialties and now serves as their base of operation. Jim Vlahakis represented the Purchaser and Nick Vlahakis represented the Seller.

Engaged Outreach, a 501(c)(3) focused on helping young people be successful by connecting youth to engaging educational and life opportunities, has partnered with local entrepreneurs in the mid-Michigan area to support STEAM education, through the underwriting and development of the tinkrLAB’s new maker space. The new education center, dubbed the tinkrZONE, is located within the tinkrLAB inside of the Meridian Mall in Okemos, Mich. The tinkrZONE will house 3D printers, laser cutting machines, vinyl cutting

machines, screen printing and a space to learn about robotics and coding through programs like Minecraft Coding.

At the Michigan Society of Association Executives Association Choice Awards held in November at the East Lansing Marriott at University Place, the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau (GLCVB) was named ‘Best Large CVB’ by the association’s membership. Additionally, at an event held at the University Club of MSU on December 6th, the GLCVB was recognized by the Arts Council of Greater Lansing with the 2016 Business Leadership Award. The honor was given in recognition of the GLCVB’s long term support for the work of the Arts Council and the GLCVB’s promotion of arts and culture in the community.

Out of 13 possible designs, the one featuring a white-tailed buck in front of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore was by far the most popular choice to appear on the forthcoming

2018 America the Beautiful Quarters® to honor Michigan in a survey of schools, coin collectors, and the general public conducted by Lansing’s Liberty Coin Service. Although this survey has no binding influence on the process of selecting which design will appear on this coin when it debuts in early 2018, Liberty Coin Service is sending copies of the results to Michigan Governor Snyder’s office and to the U.S. Mint.

NAI Mid-Michigan/TMN Commercial is pleased to announce the sale of 232 Verlinden Street, Lansing. This 5,500 sq. ft. two story office building was purchased by a local investor and

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BRAND FORWARD WITH PUBLIC RELATIONS

Beatrice Linder, 91, a loyal DriverOnCall customer, credits the driver service for allowing her to maintain an independent lifestyle. The East Lansing resident attends medical appointments, shops, enjoys social events and travels to Flint and West Bloomfield to visit friends and family without having to rely on the availability of her adult children.


MEMBERS ON THE MOVE

this property is scheduled to be re-developed. Nick Vlahakis represented the Seller and Dave Robinson represented the Purchaser.

The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) announces that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners has given final approval to the Brownfield Plan for “Elevation” at Okemos Pointe. This project was previously approved by the Ingham County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (ICBRA) and the Meridian Charter Township Board of Trustees. The project is a partnership of BSD Development from California, Randle and Branoff Development of Okemos, and T.A. Forsberg, Inc. of Okemos.

Maner Costerisan is pleased to announce the firm’s selection as a member of Bob Scott’s VAR Stars of 2016. This is the third consecutive year Maner Costerisan has made the list. The firm focuses on using industry leading technologies to bring the highest value to our clients. These technologies include Intacct, the AICPA’s preferred provider of financial applications and the fastest growing cloud ERP solution, Microsoft Dynamics GP, the leading mid-market ERP solution, and Microsoft’s newest cloud ERP solution, Dynamics 365. Members of the VAR Stars were selected based on factors such as growth, industry leadership and recognition, and innovation.

Sparrow Caregivers have once again generously supported less fortunate local children and families to ensure they enjoy their holiday season. Nearly 40 families with students at Lansing’s Fairview STEM Magnet School received gifts during Operation Santa 2016. A total of 142 children were given presents. Sparrow Caregivers donated enough toys and clothes to fill a large Ryder truck.

NAI Mid-Michigan/TMN Commercial is pleased to announce the sale of 7704 Lanac Street, Lansing. This 7,800 sq. ft. trucking cross dock will be redeveloped for a new use. Jim Salkiewicz represented the Seller and Ryan Shapiro and Tony Scruby represented the Purchaser.

Santa’s helpers caught a glimpse into what a child’s morning would be like on Dec. 25 thanks to a local grassroots effort, Santa’s Wishlist, who’s mission it is to ensure every child in the Lansing area has gifts to open on Christmas day. The idea behind Santa’s Wishlist began during an annual holiday party where Brent Forsberg, president of Forsberg Real Estate Company and TA Forsberg, Paul Brown of Keller Williams and Eric Speckin of Speckin Forensics gathered together to celebrate the season. Each year these friends would bring toys to donate to a local charity to be distributed to deserving families for Christmas. This year, more than $26,000 was raised through donations from individuals, families and local companies which will go to purchase gifts for 300 Lansing area children. Droves of volunteers met at the Bath Township Meijer to shop for and spend $100 on each child based on items from his/her wish list.

NAI Mid-Michigan/TMN Commercial is pleased to announce the sale of 575 N. Cedar Street, Mason. This motel/ice cream store was purchased by an Operator. Gino Baldino represented both the Purchaser and Seller in this transaction.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing recently named the Lansing School District as the recipient of the second annual Kellie Dean Healthy Living Community Impact Award during the YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing’s Holiday Board Dinner in December. The purpose of the Kellie Dean Healthy Living Community Impact Award is to recognize community organizations that showcase the characteristics of commitment, development and collaboration with others focused on improving the health of our kids, families and seniors in the greater Lansing area.

Sparrow Caregivers contributed dozens of bikes and bags of toys as part of the annual Operation Santa holiday gift drive for students at Lansing’s Fairview STEM Magnet School.

Kellie Dean, president and CEO of Dean Transportation; Yvonne Caamal Canul, Lansing School District Superintendent; and Jeff Scheibel, president & CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing.


MEMBERS ON THE MOVE

The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) presented its 2nd Annual Regional Diversity Star Award to Sparrow at its Board of Directors and Annual Meeting on Tuesday, December 6, 2016 at Dean Transportation Conference Center, Lansing, MI. As companies compete for top talent, strong diversity and inclusion initiatives ensure they will attract and retain the ‘best-of-the best’. LEAP recognizes companies, like Sparrow, who demonstrate best practices in creating a diverse and welcoming place where global talent wants to work and succeed, which has a direct impact on our local economy.

LAFCU recently presented the Capital Area United Way with a check for more than $20,000 in donations raised and pledged during 2016. It’s a 12 percent increase over the previous year. Throughout 2016, LAFCU employees held a variety of events to earn money for the United Way, including a book sale ($475), dress down days ($626), a live auction ($1,046), an in-house, online auction ($1,331), a sports auction ($295), cookbook sales ($580), candy grams ($545), a loose change war ($416), and a pallet party ($220). Employee pledge donations and a corporate donation make up the balance of the funds raised.

Leading Michigan manufacturer, Spartan Motors, Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAR), a global leader in specialty chassis and vehicle design, manufacturing, and assembly, has presented Charlotte, Mich.-based AL!VE with a $75,000 donation in support of its ongoing programs that promote community health and wellness. The donation, presented to AL!VE by Spartan Motors President and Chief Executive Officer Daryl Adams, represents the seventh of 10 installments of a larger $1 million donation originally pledged in 2009 on behalf of The Spartan Motors (Chassis) Foundation. Additionally, Spartan announced a $30,000 commitment over the next three years in support of CharlotteRising, the regional offshoot of Gov. Rick Snyder’s larger statewide “Rising Tide” initiative created to advance economic prosperity in ten communities across Michigan.

Michigan Certified Development Corporation (MCDC) joined with Cinnaire to provide grant funding to support the Metro Community Development Fund (Metro). In partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and Huntington Bank, Metro has established a $2M loan fund to provide capital to micro and small businesses. The loans will be in the range of $5,000 - $250,000. Metro will focus on issuing loans in the Flint and Saginaw areas. Cinnaire provided a $50,000 grant, while MCDC provided a $40,000 grant.

The Crowne Plaza Lansing West was recently recognized with the prestigious IHG® Torchbearer Award. Based on a variety of metrics, this honor is earned by hotels that have reached the highest levels of excellence in all aspects of operation. Their team is also proud to have been rated #1 in Guest Satisfaction among all Crowne Plaza hotels & resorts in the U.S. two years in a row. Kudos to GM Cindy Bowen and her staff for their extraordinary dedication and achievements in their first three years with the brand!

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Caption with photo l-r: Patrick Sustrich, Executive Director at AL!VE; Daryl Adams, President and CEO of Spartan Motors; Barbara Fulton, Community Development Director at Hayes Green Beach Memorial Hospital (HGB); and Dr. Fred Darin, Chairman of the Board of Hayes Green Beach Memorial Hospital (HGB)


CHAMBER IN ACTION

The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce was pleased to be on hand for the grand opening and ribbon cutting celebration for LOTSA Stone Fired Pizza, located at 115 E. Grand River Avenue in East Lansing. This is the sixth location for LOTSA and the first in Michigan. “We are excited to join the Greater Lansing market, especially by taking part in the economic development of the Grand River Avenue Corridor,” said Anthony DiGangi, Chief Operating Officer, Colmont Restaurant Group, LLC. “Students, residents and tourists can craft their own pizza and salad choosing from more than 40 fresh ingredients. Their creation bakes in our custom stone fired oven and is ready to eat in just 5 minutes.” Cutting the ribbon is General Manager Greg Hunt. He is joined by East Lansing Mayor Mark Meadows, Luke Hackney, Chair of the Downtown Management Board and the LOTSA team members.

Huntington Bank prides themselves on a legacy of great service for their customers and that was on display for the January 18 grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for their new stand-alone branch in East Lansing. The new branch, located at 431 E. Grand River Avenue, East Lansing, offers full service banking solutions for individuals, small businesses, and commercial enterprises. Cutting the ribbon is Daniel Robinson, Branch Manager and he is surrounded by Mike Debri (right), Business Banking Team Leader, Marc Silverstro (left), Retail District Manager and David Lochner (far left), President, East Michigan.

Apple Vacations and Fly Lansing have concocted a cure for cabin fever: Fly Lansing nonstop

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D IN PARADISE

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GROWING TOGETHER.At Mercantile Bank we are committed to strengthening business in the Lansing area. Our Commercial Team knows what it takes to grow a business here because they work and live in our community too. From business loans to payroll services, we can help you navigate the challenges you face today and tomorrow. Working with you to promote economic prosperity in our region. Moving business forward, it's just another way Mercantile is here to get you there.

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For more information, contact:contact: Tom Hoban - Community President [email protected]

The Stadium District500 East Michigan Avenue, Suite 200Lansing, MI 48912Ph. 517.487.6340lansingchamber.org

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