MAY 2013

Greater Lansing
Trade Mission to Germany 2013 Member Benefit Programs
MAY 2013

1 Financial Health Team Briefs Business Leaders

FOCUS

Michigans Festival Capital

A Message From The President

Festivals and the Cultural Economy

Everybody loves a good festival and springtime is when the festival season swings into full action. Festivals are a terrific source of family fun, a way to celebrate the many great attributes in our region, and a source of promoting community pride. As this months cover story in FOCUS points out, festivals are also good business, as patrons attending their favorite festivals pump millions of dollars into the local economy. Festivals are part of what is often referred to as the cultural economy, an essential component for a regions economic development strategy. In 2009, leaders from the cultural and economic development sectors in Lansing and East Lansing completed what is known as a Cultural Economic Development Plan (CED). I was privileged to serve on the steering committee that helped create and approve that plan. The goals of the CED plan were to identify cultural assets, opportunities and needs, and define a set of economic development goals around those assets. Four key initiatives were identified during the CED process, including: building cultural and creative sector leadership to implement the plan; cultivate a spirit of creative entrepreneurism; identifying sources of financing; and the development of a Michigan Avenue Center for Creative Business and Arts. The CED plan recommended that the Cities of Lansing and East Lansing be the Midwests most welcoming and supportive destination for creative innovators and entrepreneurs. There is strong evidence that our region is well on the way to that important distinction. Old Town is a perfect example of a community that is carving out an identity as a center for cultural and creative leadership. The opening of the Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum at Michigan State University is perhaps the most significant new development in the growth of our cultural economy. Hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world will visit the Broad Museum, which may eventually result in a new look downtown East Lansing in the form of new art galleries, restaurants and related projects. Our festivals and the cultural economy give our region a source of identity. They communicate a great deal about who we are as a community and our quality of life. Our ability as a region to effectively leverage our cultural and creative assets will help drive new business investment, and allow us to successfully attract and retain the talent needed to succeed in the knowledge-based economy of the 21st century. Get out and enjoy a festival or two!

2013 Board of Directors

Officers
Paula Cunningham
Capitol National Bank

BOARD CHAIR PAST CHAIR

Nancy McKeague
Michigan Health and Hospital Association

CHAIR ELECT
Bill Kimble
C2AE

LEGAL COUNSEL
Jeff Hicks
Hicks & Mullett, PLLC

Tim Daman
FOCUS President and CEO Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce

TREASURER
Jeff Fineis
Andrews Hooper and Pavlik

PRESIDENT
Tim Daman
Lansing Regional Chamber

Division Directors
Intl Business Services
Jean Schtokal
Foster, Swift, Collins and Smith, P.C.

2
MAY 2013

Our festivals and the cultural economy give our region a source of identity. They communicate a great deal about who we are as a community and our quality of life.

Government Relations
Kevin McKinney
McKinney & Associates

MARKETING & COMMUNICATION

Joe Ford
Netvantage Marketing

MEMBERSHIP SERVICES
Deb Muchmore
Marketing Resource Group

At-Large
Farm Bureau Insurance

Dave Baker

Accident Fund Holdings McLaren Greater Lansing

Steve Reynolds Patrick Salow

Fifth Third Bank PNC Bank

Advertisers
Accident Fund.......................................13 Blue Cross Blue Shield..........................11 Capital Area Womens LifeStyle............17 Capitol National Bank...........................14 C2AE.......................................................3 LSJ Media................................................5 McLaren...................................................9 Mercantile Bank.................................... BC MSUFCU..................................................6 Sparrow...................................................7 WKAR......................................................4

Melanie Bergeron
Two Men & A Truck Michigan State University

Mark Burnham Leslie Brogan

Comcast Jackson National Life Insurance

Jason Sanders Tim Salisbury Heather Shawa-DeCook

Demmer Corporation Common Wealth Enterprises

John Brown Stella Cash

K-12, Inc.

Sparrow Health System

Tom Stewart Bob Trezise

LEAP, Inc.

Shelly Davis-Mielock
Dean Transportation Conquest Fitness and Health

Patrick Dean

Spartan Internet Consulting Auto-Owners Insurance

Ryan Vartoogian Bill Woodbury

Andre Hutson Dave Mulder

Meijer, Inc.

Focus
Ross Woodstock Michelle Rahl

EditorS

DESIGN & Printing

Spartan Printing, Inc. Hot Prospects Direct

Mailing

COVER Photography
Trumpie Photography

INTERIOR Photography
Fresh Image Design, LLC

News & Events

Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Annual Grub Crawl
Tuesday, June 11, Eastwood Towne Center $20/Single Wristband $35/Couples Wristbands $150/Bundle of 10 Reward Your Staff & Promote Team Building

Wednesday, May 1 Delta Government Relations Committee, 8 9 a.m.

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

TUESday, May 14 The Affordable Care Act: An Overview of What to Expect, 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Insurance Capital Boardroom, 500

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

E. Michigan Ave. Suite 200, Lansing, MI 48912. Alisa C. Bennett, manager, group business health care reform team for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, will present a comprehensive overview of what businesses can expect for the 2014 implementation of the Affordable Care Act. In-depth Q&A with a panel of experts will follow. There is no charge to attend this presentation, but seats are limited to 50. Please RSVP at www.lansingchamber.org.

THURSDAY, May 16 Member Mixer, 5 - 7 p.m., Location: Northwood University, 1600 Abbott
Road, East Lansing, MI 48823.Complementary attendance provided by Northwood University. Food and beverage provided by Amys Catering. Tours of the Lansing graduate facility will be provided. There will also be a special grand prize drawing for one lucky attendee!

Thursday, May 23 Economic Club, 11:30 a.m. 1:30 p.m., Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center, East Lansing. Speaker: James Lammers, executive vice president and general counsel, Dart Container Corporation. Sponsored by Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC. Program begins at noon; please arrive early for registration & networking. Single tickets $40, or tables of 8 $300 (includes lunch). Pre-registration is required. To register for this event, please visit www.lansingchamber.org.

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

Architecture, Engineering & Planning c2ae.com 866.454.3923

Wednesday, June 5 Delta Government Relations Committee, 8 9 a.m. Lexington Lansing Hotel, 925 S. Creyts Rd., Lansing, MI 48917. The Delta Government Relations Committee meets the first Wednesday of each month to provide a forum for business leaders to discuss important issues affecting Delta Township. To ensure adequate seating, please RSVP to Jason Green at jgreen@lansingchamber.org. Thursday, June 6 Chamber 360, 8 10:00 a.m., Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce
Insurance Capital Board Room, 500 E. Michigan Ave., Ste. 200, Lansing, MI 48912. New, veteran and prospective members are encouraged to attend Chamber 360 to learn about the full range of Chamber benefits and how to maximize your investment. Meet our staff and find out how we are working for you through business growth and advocacy initiatives, exclusive member benefit programs, member exposure, networking and educational event opportunities. This is a FREE event, but space is limited. To register for this event, please visit www.lansingchamber.org.

Michigan Lansing Gaylord Grand Rapids Escanaba Kalamazoo New York Canton

Tuesday, June 11 Grub Crawl, 5 - 8 p.m., Eastwood Towne Center, 3003 Preyde Blvd., Lansing, MI 48912 and The Heights at Eastwood. Enjoy food samplings and drink specials from select restaurants located in Eastwood Towne Centre and The Heights at Eastwood . Wristbands - Pre-sale: $20/person, $35/couple; Night of: $25/person; $40/couple. A bundle of 10 is $150, perfect to reward your team! For more information on sponsorships, contact Jennifer Wagemann at (517) 853-6456 or jwagemann@lansingchamber.org. To purchase wristbands, visit www.lansingchamber.org or the Eastwood Towne Center Management Office.
Event cost is complimentary for these enhanced membership levels:

Bronze

Gold

Silver

Platinum

MAY 2013

FOCUS

Welcome New Members

Consumers Mutual Insurance of Michigan
2601 N. Coolidge, Suite 200 East Lansing, MI 48823 (517) 492-9026 consumersmutualinsurance.org

Faith Catholic
1500 E. Saginaw St. Lansing, MI 48906 (517) 853-7600 faithcatholic.com

Nonprofit Network
536 N. Jackson Jackson, MI 49201 (517) 796-4750 nonprofnetwork.org

Park Dental Okemos

2685 Jolly Rd. Okemos, MI 48864 (517) 993-5924 parkdentalokemos.net

Prevention Network
P.O. Box 4458 East Lansing, MI 48826 (517) 393-6890 preventionnetwork.org

Advanced Fundraising
5376 Ann Drive Bath, MI 48808 (517) 231-9120

Bikram Yoga Capital Area

1355 E. Grand River Ave. East Lansing, MI 48823 (517) 862-8926 bikramyogacapitalarea.com

AFLAC
4131 Okemos Rd., Suite 11 Okemos, MI 48864 (517) 349-7002 aflac.com

AIRSHIP CINEMA
525 N. Cedar, Apt. 103 Lansing, MI 48912 (989) 293-7251 airshipcinema.com

Rainbow Child Care Center-Lansing

8161 Executive Ct. Lansing, MI 48917 517.622.8458 rainbowccc.com

Clinton County Economic Alliance

12800 Escanaba Drive, Suite D DeWitt, MI 48820 (517) 669-1345 cceami.org

University Motor Mall LLC

6420 S. Cedar St. Lansing, MI 48911 (517) 394-5400 universitymotormall.com

Lansing Asphalt
3888 S. Canal Rd. Lansing, MI 48917 (517) 775-2344 lansingasphalt.com

Go Greener LLC
4520 N. Grand River Avenue Lansing, MI 48906 (517) 703-2131 gogreenerllc.com

Rainbow Child Care Center-Okemos

3682 Okemos Rd. Okemos, MI 48864 517.347.1919 rainbowccc.com

FOCUS

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

4
MAY 2013

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

Thomas M. Cooley Law School

40 years

McCartney & Company, PC

20 years

MSU Federal Credit Union

30 years

Edward Jones
10 years

Charter Township of Delta

30 years

Maurers
10 years

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan

30 years

University Reformed Church

5 years

ASK
5 years

DeLau Fire & Safety

30 years

GTECH Corporation
25 years

Warren Salvage & Dismantling Corp.

5 years

B & D Electric, Inc.

25 years

REPUTATION MANAGEMENT

Thank You Renewing Members

A/V Consultants & Rentals Abraham Real Estate Allstate - The Norris Agency Arcpoint of MidMichigan ASAP Printing ASK B & D Electric, Inc. Black Box Network Services Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Candlewood Suites At The Henry Center Complex Capital Area Center for Independent Living Capital Area Massage Therapy GrandAir Aviation GTECH Corporation Hacks Key Shop Hampton Inn - East Lansing Heights Auto Parts Johnston Consulting Lansing Community College Foundation & Alumni Assoc Lansing Regional Sister Cities Commission Liskeys Auto & Truck Service Maplegrove Property Management, LLC Maurers Max & Ermas McCartney & Company, PC Metalist International, Inc. Michigan Chamber of Commerce Michigan Creative Michigan Orthopedic Center MIRS - Michigan Information & Research Service Moore Plumbing Shop, Inc. MSU Federal Credit Union Murphy & Murphy, D.D.S. Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center Panera Bread Company - Frandor Personnel World, Inc. Petra Flowers Pines Healthcare Center Practical Political Consulting Resch Strategies Special Olympics Michigan - Area 8 Sunrise, SRL The Bluffs at Lakes of Milford Association Theroux Development Co., Inc. Thomas M. Cooley Law School Trees, Inc. Tri-County Regional Planning Commission Troppo Truscott Rossman University Reformed Church Veterans of Foreign Wars Village Green of Lansing Apartments Warmels & Comstock, PLLC Warren Salvage & Dismantling Corp. Wharton Center for Performing Arts Wolverine Development Corporation WorkSquared

Chase Creative Unlimited Clear Channel Airports Collegeville Textbook Company

70% of consumers search for online reviews before visiting a new restaurant or business, and 87% will make their decision based on that review. Make sure your online reviews are driving potential consumers to your companynot driving them away! To learn how we can help your online reputation shine, call (888) 709-6362 today for your FREE digital audit and competitive analysis.

DeLau Fire & Safety, Inc. Dunkin Donuts Edward Jones Gillespie Company, LLC

Weber Sandwick 2012

MAY 2013

87

OF CO
ARE

WS E I V E R E N I ON L

ED BY INFLUENC

NSUMERS

Capital Urological Associates Carrabbas Italian Grill Centry Corp./Charlotte Mini Storage, L.L.C. Charter Township of Delta

FOCUS

International Trade

Lansing Regional Chamber and LEAP to Lead Export Trade Mission to Germany
Visit Frankfurt and Munich from June 8-14

FOCUS

with a line-of-credit from MSUFCU

Unforseeable circumstances happen all the time to businesses. Make sure your company has the backup funds needed to get past these events. With a Business Line-of-Credit* from MSUFCU, youll have peace of mind knowing the funds are already available when you need them most. Our Business Lines of Credit offer: Limits up to $1,000,000** Interest-only payments available Payments based only on credit used No application fee No prepayment penalty 24/7 remote account access
The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC), Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP, Inc.) and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) will lead an export trade mission to Germany to help build business relationships and develop worldwide expansion strategies with Europe. The mission will target the automotive, drug and pharmaceutical, information technology, machining and tooling, medical equipment, renewable energy and plastics industries. Germany is Michigans fourth-largest export trading partner with nearly $1.8 billion in export revenue, said Tim Daman, President and CEO of the LRCC. This is a great opportunity for Greater Lansing businesses to expand their reach into the European market. As the top importer of goods in the European Union, Germany acts as the ideal location for businesses seeking training and resources through expansion. While on the mission, there will be four days of individual meetings with prospective buyers, distributors and partners. LRCC has taken an active leadership position in assisting Greater Lansing businesses establish international connections. In 2012, LRCC led a local delegation of business leaders to China for exposure to new business opportunities.

Protect Your Business

6
MAY 2013

Have the funds ready when you need them. Apply for your Business Line-of-Credit today.

Federally insured by the NCUA

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

Branch Locations East Lansing 3777 West Rd. 4825 E. Mt. Hope Rd. 523 E. Grand River Ave. MSU Union, 49 Abbot Rd., Rm. 108 Lansing 104 S. Washington Sq. 653 Migaldi Ln. 200 E. Jolly Rd. Sparrow Professional Bldg. Haslett 16861 Marsh Rd. Okemos 1775 Central Park Dr. Auburn Hills 3265 Five Points Dr.
* Business Loans are currently available to Michigan-based businesses only. All loans are subject to credit approval. Origination and/or other fees may apply. ** Maximum amount allowed to borrow on a Business Secured Line-ofCredit is $1,000,000. Maximum amount allowed to borrow on a Business Unsecured Line-of-Credit is $100,000 and is based on the performance and creditworthiness of the company applying.

Improve the health of your workforce with Sparrows Be Well at Work

Let Sparrow help your business evolve. Sparrows new Be Well at Work program can improve the overall health of your employees, reduce unnecessary costs, and inspire productivity in todays dynamic environment.

Sparrow can provide a comprehensive, integrated platform to improve wellness at your company. Be Well at Work provides the tools to get on a path to wellness, including:

Incentives and reward systems Healthy eating and activity tools Event scheduling and management Team challenges And more!
To schedule a free Be Well at Work consultation, contact Sparrows Worksite Wellness Coordinator Brad Gebauer at 517.364.8167 or visit us at sparrow.org/bewellatwork.

MAY 2013

FOCUS

Getting on the path to wellness

Government Relations

Business Leaders Urged to get Involved in City of Lansing Financial Recovery Efforts
Scorsone outlined many of the challenges facing the City of Lansing, most notably the so-called legacy costs, led by pensions and retiree health care. Lansing has estimated unfunded liabilities of $649 million. Budgets are balanced according to the law, but not from an accounting perspective, said Scorsone. Without solving this problem, not much is going to happen. Mayor Bernero noted that 56 percent of the citys budget is related to police and fire, and that though unions are making some concessions, state laws supporting binding arbitration hinder the ability to make all the changes many feel are needed. The Mayor said that he will continue to support privatization of some city services and consider the sale of some assets. The Mayor also noted that the City of Lansing subsidizes the Lansing Center and Cooley Stadium to the tune of $1.5 million and indicated that other regional entities should share that responsibility. Regional assets deserve regional support, said Mayor Bernero. FHT chairman David Hollister urged the Mayor to move immediately to implement a proposal from his committee to establish a joint authority with the Lansing School District which would allow for consolidation of services. The city and the school district can immediately begin to share services and create efficiencies, said Hollister. Panelists agreed that the business community will have to assume an active role in whatever strategies are implemented to help Lansings financial recovery. Forum moderator Ron Simon, who also served on the FHT panel, called upon business leaders to give their support for tough action. We have to look upon the business community to support what we need to do to get the City of Lansing on track, said Simon.

FOCUS

8
MAY 2013

Business leaders attending a briefing at the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce hear from Mayor Virg Bernero and members of his Financial Health Team.
Business leaders attending a briefing involving members of Mayor Virg Berneros Financial Health Team (FHT) were urged to be actively involved in advocating for necessary action to address the financial difficulties facing the City of Lansing. The call-to-action was made during a recent briefing held at the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. The business community is absolutely critical to this process, said Eric Scorsone, an MSU economist serving on the FHT.

Governor Rick Snyder was recently honored with the first annual Moving Michigan Forward Award, sponsored by Dean Transportation. The award was presented to the Governor at the recent 2013 Legislative Dinner hosted by the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. The award recognizes outstanding leadership to develop a new level of excellence in which Michigan is a leader in the 21st century economy and enjoys a quality of life that is second to none. Pictured from left: Paula Cunningham, Capitol National Bank, 2013 Chair of the LRCC Board of Directors; Governor Rick Snyder; Kellie Dean, Dean Transportation & Dean Trailways; and Tim Daman, LRCC President & CEO.

Economic Club

Dart Executive James Lammers to Keynote May 23 Economic Club Luncheon

Dart Container Corporation executive James Lammers will share insight into the companys recent $1 billion acquisition of Solo Cup, its expansion plans in midMichigan, and their overall commitment to Michigan as the keynote speaker of the Economic Club luncheon on May 23. Lammers has been with Dart Container Corporation (DCC) since 1986, and was named Vice President of James Lammers Administration and General Counsel in 1993. In 2012, when Dart acquired Solo Cup Company, Jim was named Executive Vice President of Administration. In addition to serving as General Counsel, Jim is responsible for Darts Accounting, Corporate Communications, Governmental and Environmental Affairs, Human Resources, Tax and Treasury functions. He is involved in Dart real estate development activities, domestically and abroad, and also serves as Vice President of the Dart Foundation. In May 2012, Dart Container acquired Illinois-based Solo Cup Company and now has approximately 15,000 employees and more than 45 production, distribution centers, and office locations in eight countries. To integrate Solo Cup corporate and administrative operations into Darts location in Michigan, Dart plans to build a new corporate headquarters building and warehouse facility as well as expand existing buildings on its Alaiedon Township campus. The employment growth will be fueled both by the relocation of some Solo Cup Company staff from the Chicago area and new jobs that will be available to Michigan residents. A recent job fair held at the Capital Area Michigan Works Lansing office attracted over 450 individuals looking to fill more than 100 positions at Dart Container. The Economic Club luncheon on May 23rd is sponsored by Fahey Schultz Burzych and Rhodes PLC. Doors open for networking at 11:30 a.m. with lunch and the program beginning at noon. Single tickets are $40 or tables of eight are $300 (includes lunch). Pre-registration is required and can be completed at www.lansingchamber.org or by contacting Jennifer Wagemann at jwagemann@lansingchamber.org of 517-853-6456.

for joint replacement in Michigan

McLaren Orthopedic Hospital is the regions leader when it comes to offering orthopedic care, including state-of-the-art treatments and highly experienced specialists. Time and again, we are recognized for the high caliber of care we provide, and we are especially proud of our latest designation from CareChex, ranking us No. 1 in the state and among the top 10 percent in the nation for joint replacement. If you want the finest in orthopedic care, theres no need to look any further than McLaren Orthopedic HospitalMichigans largest dedicated orthopedic hospital and a center for national orthopedic research in partnership with Michigan State University. For a physician referral, please visit mclaren.org/lansingortho.

Caption

2727 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Lansing, MI 48910 | (517) 975-6000 mclaren.org/lansingortho

Photo courtesy of Trumpie Photography

Lansing Regional of Chamber of Commerce president & CEO Tim Daman were among the panelists featured as part of the first New Michigan Summit hosted by Business Leaders for Michigan (BLM). Daman participated in a panel discussion entitled Higher Education Marketplace that discussed the importance of considering colleges and universities as talent factories that are also part of the economy. Picture l-r: Doug Rothwell, BLM CEO; Michael Hansen, president of the Michigan Community College Association; Kenneth Nisbet, executive director of U-M Tech Transfer; and Tim Daman.

MAY 2013

FOCUS

Greater Lansing:

Michigans Festival Capital

10
MAY 2013

FOCUS

East Lansing Arts Festival

ou dont have to travel very far on any spring or summer weekend to understand why the Greater Lansing region is often referred to as Michigans Festival Capital. More than 60 festivals are hosted in the region, beginning with Frost Fest in downtown Lansing during February and concluding with a variety of holiday traditions in December. We love our festivals in Greater Lansing. During the course of the year, our communities celebrate with music, arts, crafts, and color cruises. We celebrate our rich ethnic heritage, life in the city, and the frontier of the Wild West. We have festivals to celebrate all forms of transportation, including cars, boats, horses and bath tubs. What would festivals be without eating? We have festivals that offer foods from over 100 countries, and domestic favorites including chili, maple syrup and pancakes, and yes, even gizzards! In addition to being a lot of fun and a source of community pride, festivals contribute a significant economic impact on the Greater Lansing region. One of the most successful annual events is the East Lansing Arts Festival, which on May 18 and 19 will celebrate its 50th anniversary. More than 200 juried artists will participate, many of whom will stay in local hotels and eat in local establishments. An economic impact study completed in 2005 estimated that 70-80,000 visitors attend the arts festival, spending some $2.2 million. East Lansing merchants say the Arts Festival is their biggest weekend of the year, even more so than the Christmas season. People come to the event anticipating they are going to spend money, said Corinn Van Wyck, East Lansing Arts Festival Director. They are going to purchase art and eat at their favorite restaurants. There has not been a study that solely addresses the economic impact of festivals in

the region. However, a recent report from Creative State Michigan revealed that arts and culture generate $2 billion annually in Michigan. That counts for more than golf, boating and sailing, hunting and fishing, hiking and biking combined, said Leslie Donaldson, executive director of the Arts Council of Greater Lansing. Perhaps no community has seen a bigger turnaround that could be directly attributed to festivals than Lansings Old Town on the citys north side. Old Town festivals helped revitalize the area, bringing visitors and attracting new businesses. Old Town annually hosts Jazzfest, Octoberfest, the Renegade Theater Festival, Festival of the Sun and the Festival of the Moon. Five years ago, the community created a new event called Scrapfest, in which teams have an hour to collect up to 500 pounds of scrap from Friedland Industries scrapyard in Old Town. They then have two weeks to conceive and execute their artistic vision and drop off their completed masterpiece to display and auction off during the Festival of the Sun and Festival of the Moon. Last year, 20 teams participated by turning scrap into art. If we look at Old Town today as compared to 25 years ago, we see a dramatic difference, said Donaldson. Festivals are a major reason why Old Town has turned the corner, become vibrant and alive again, and brought more small businesses to the region. The attraction of festivals is an asset in helping draw out-of-town visitors to the region, which is the responsibility of the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau (GLCVB). The region annually draws 4.7 million visitors, resulting in an economic impact of $424 million.

When there is a group that is looking for something to do for free, we send them the list of festivals, said Tracy Padot, CTA, GLCVB vice president, marketing communications. It is one more thing they can do in this area.

In addition to being a lot of fun and a source of community pride, festivals contribute a significant economic impact on the Greater Lansing region.

Festivals brand us as a region, said Donaldson who serves as the president of the Alliance. Its been a great model. People are learning a lot from each other.

For the past 19 years, GLCVB has used its own event, Be A Tourist in Your Own Town, to help educate local residents about the numerous attractions in Greater Lansing - many of which are under appreciated. For a passport that costs just $1, folks who participate will have an opportunity to gain free admission to 60 great attractions on Saturday, June 1. GLCVB hopes those who participate will spread the word. We would hope that our residents will become ambassadors for the region, said Padot. In an effort to facilitate, promote and support many of the festivals in the region, the Greater Lansing Festival Alliance has brought together the directors of 30 arts and cultural festivals. Started in 2009 as a membership group of the Arts Council of Greater Lansing, the Alliance sponsors workshops for arts coordinators that offers educational programs, strategies on how to support best practices, and insights on how to leverage promotional dollars.

Festivals contribute a great deal to our region. In addition to the economic impact, festivals create energy and vitality in our communities and allow us to celebrate the many diverse characteristics that make our region great. People want to be connected to their communities, said Donaldson. They bring people together and define who we are as a region. There are a few sure signs of spring including warmer weather, the greening of grass and trees, and a multitude of outdoor activities kick off, including a fun-filled festival near you. Let the festival season begin!

For a listing of festivals in the Greater Lansing area, see page 12.

Red Cedar Jubilee FOCUS

11
MAY 2013 BWL Chili Cook Off

The right choice makes all the difference.

Carrying a card from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan or Blue Care Network means you have a health plan that provides access to practically any doctor or hospital in Michigan. Our wide range of health plans are flexible. Plus, our experience and expertise can protect your business and help your employees stay healthy. Simply put, its a card you can count on. Find out what thousands of Michigan businesses already know. Contact the Lansing Regional Chamber at 517-487-6340 or visit them online at www.mychamberadvantage.com/lansingchamber. Your Chamber Exclusively Endorses

bcbsm.com

Individual Plans || Group Coverage || Dental || Vision

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

R015441

R015441_FOCUSAd.indd 1

4/16/13 9:51 AM

Greater Lansing: Michigans Festival Capital

Community Festivals
May Through August
Red Cedar Jubilee

Louie Longoria is always a popular act at the St. Johns Mint Festival

Community: Williamston www.facebook.com/ redcedarjubilee June 21

Festival of the Moon

Lansing JazzFest

August 2 -3

Community: Old Town Lansing www.jazzlansing.com August 3

Island Art Fair

Community: Old Town Lansing www.festivalofthemoon.com June 22

Festival of the Sun

Community: Grande Ledge www.ledgecraftlane.com August 9 - 11

Great Lansing Folk Festival

Community: Old Town Lansing www.festivalofthesun.com June 22 FOCUS

Dam Festival

Community: East Lansing www.greatlakesfolkfest.net August 9 - 11

St. Johns Mint Festival

Community: Eaton Rapids www.damfestival.net June 23

Delta Rocks! Family Festival

Community: St. Johns www.clintoncountychamber.org/ mint August 15 17

Renegade Theatre Festival

12
MAY 2013

Community: Delta Township May 2 - 5

Spring Fling Festival Be a Tourist in Your Own Town

June 1

July 7 13

Community: Mason www.masonchamber.org May 4

Victorian Festival

Community: Community-wide www.lansing.org/batyot June 7 -9

Gizzard Fest

Eaton County Fair

Community: Old Town Lansing www.renegadetheatrefestival.org August 15 17

DeWitt Ox Roast

Community: Charlotte www.eatoncountyfair.com July 8 -14

Common Ground Music Festival

Community: Downtown DeWitt www.dewittoxroast.net August 21

Old 27 Motor Tour

Community: Grand Ledge www.victoriandays.org May 18 19

Michigan State University Spring Arts and Crafts Show

Community: Potterville www.gizzardfest.com June 13 -15

Lansing Juneteenth Celebration

Community: Lansing www.commongroundfest.com July 20

Taste of Downtown

Community: Lansing www.old27tour.com August 24

Michigan Pride March, Rally and Festival

Community: East Lansing www.uabevents.com/ artsandcrafts May 24- 26

Cristo Ray Fiesta 2013

Community: Lansing June 15

www.lansingjuneteenthcelebration.org Annual Oldsmobile

Community: Lansing www.tasteofdowntown.org July 27

Car Capital Celebration

Community: Lansing www.cristoreylansing. catholicweb.com May 31

Homecoming Community: Lansing www.reolds.org June 20-22

Summer Solstice Jazz Festival

Community: Lansing www.reoldmuseam.org July 29 August 3

Ingham County Fair

Community: Lansing www.michiganpride.org August 23 24

Mason Sun Dried Music Fest

Lansing Board of Water and Light Chili Cook-Off

Community: East Lansing Web URL: www.eljazzfest.com June 16 -22

Community: Mason www.inghamfair.org August 2 -3

Bath Days Festival

Community: Downtown Mason www.masondda.com August 30 September 1

Michigan Mosaic Music Festival

Community: Lansing www.lbwl.com

Community: Bath www.bathdaysfestival.com

Community: Lansing www.michiganmosaic.org

For more information and a complete listing of all 2013 festivals in the Greater Lansing region, visit www.lansing.org/events/local-festivals

Economic Club

Patrick Kennedy Tells Economic Club Crowd Supporting Mental Health Treatment is Good Business
Employers should feel a strong sense of responsibility to ensure that employee health care policies contain coverage for mental health issues. That was part of the message delivered to the March Economic Club crowd by mental health advocate and former Rhode Island Congressman Patrick Kennedy. According to Kennedy, mental health issues including depression, anxiety and addiction are the leading costs of disability in business, often resulting in dramatic declines in productivity. This is your business, said Kennedy. In Michigan, almost two million adults experience a mental disorder each year which contributes to almost $5 billion in lost productivity. Kennedy said it is important that society break the stigma associated with mental health, which he said results in two-thirds of people who need treatment for mental health issues not seeking help. Removing the stigma associated with mental health disorders would result in more people getting help earlier, according to Kennedy. If we treated mental illness like we treat cancer, we would treat it early on, said Kennedy. Today, we only treat people with mental illness after they are already in critical condition. Kennedy, who has battled his own mental health challenges including bipolar disorder and addictions to alcohol and OxyContin, was a champion for mental health issues during his 14-year career in Congress. He travels the country speaking out in support of mental health care, which he equates to the civil rights movement. Kennedy also urged Michigan to reconsider its decision to not set up a state health exchange when the Affordable Care Act takes effect in 2014. Kennedy said the failure to have an exchange will mean Michigan residents will not have guaranteed insurance coverage for mental health issues and addictions which citizens will have in states with exchanges.

13
MAY 2013

The WorkSafe People

FOCUS

Membership Services

Book Smart. Business Wise. Battle Tested.

Book Smart. Business Wise. Battle Tested. This is the mantra of Spartan Consulting Inc. (SCI), Michigan State Universitys only student run, fee-based consulting firm operating since 1997. SCI draws from the diversity and expertise of the MBA students at the Eli Broad Graduate School of Management, to deliver high value, custom fit solutions to clients ranging from startups to fortune 500 corporations. As a non-profit, SCI is able to provide the link between classroom and boardroom and help both the student and companies develop cutting-edge management and strategic solutions in a variety of business areas including: supply chain management (optimization, analytics, logistics and procurement), marketing, finance and accounting, human capital development and business development (business plan drafting and capital sourcing). Recent clients of SCI include Meijer, FANUC Robotics, and the MSU HealthTeam. SCI has also partnered with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and become a member of their Pure Michigan Business Connect initiative. As a member, SCI has agreed to provide reduced rate services to small Michigan companies looking to grow. We offer a unique value proposition to our clients, said Sean Harness, president of Spartan Consulting Inc. Our consultants are all MBA students who already have years of diverse industry experience, plus we have access to world-class faculty and databases. So, when a client hires Spartan Consulting they get big firm consulting services, but they do not have to pay the big firm price. Often, business challenges require completely new viewpoints, insights and problem solving capabilitiesthe kind Spartan Consulting provides, said R. David Nelson, former vice president, global supply group, Delphi Corp. Delphi believes that working with Spartan Consulting provides access to outstanding academic research, innovation and solutions, as well as to potential future employees.

FOCUS

14
MAY 2013

by Any Michigan Chamber of Commerce Member Businesses

Davenport University (DU) is interested in recognizing up-and-coming DU student leaders who are employed by Greater Lansing businesses. In the fall of 2012, Davenport announced their new Community Leadership Scholarship. This scholarship is available to Davenport University students who are employed at a company that is a good-standing member of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce or any Chamber of Commerce in Michigan. The Community Leader Scholarship is a great opportunity for any Davenport student that is an employee of any Chamber of Commerce member business to take advantage of some additional dollars for their education, said Danielle DeLonge, Executive Campus Director in Lansing. This scholarship continues to strengthen the relationship between Davenport University and our Chamber of Commerce partners across Michigan. Eligible students can receive up to $1,500 annually based on the number of credit hours taken as follows: Students enrolled in 6 credits per semester will receive $750 per semester, up to the annual limit. Students enrolled in less than six credits per semester will receive $375 per semester. The Community Leader Scholarship can be combined with other qualifying Davenport University discounts and scholarships, except for students who are eligible for the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce discount. The scholarship may be used toward undergraduate or graduate classes. Davenport University offers degrees in Business, Technology and Health.

Davenport University Announces New Community Leader Scholarship: Available to DU Students Employed

For more information, call 800-686-1600 or visit www.davenport.edu.

Membership Services

Lansing Regional Chamber Offers Exciting Member Benefit Programs in 2013

The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce is proud to offer to our membership a series of exclusive Member Benefit Programs. These programs, offered exclusively to Chamber members, are designed to save you time and money and encompass a variety of business services including insurance, advertising and office furniture, to name a few. In 2013, we proudly offer to our membership the following Member Benefit Programs:

DBI...We Do Office
Your membership allows you to enjoy discounts of up to 60% on over 200 Best Value Items! Free next day delivery, no minimum order.

LSJ Media
New advertising clients get 50% off your first month of advertising with LSJ Media with a three-month contract. Plus, well provide you with a free evaluation of your top 5 SEM keywords.

Accident Fund Insurance Company of America

The one and only Chamber program for workers compensation coverage in the Lansing region. Members receive a 5% discount in premiums and may also qualify for a year-end dividend check. Since 2004 Accident Fund has paid participating Lansing Regional Chamber members dividends in excess of $1.2 million. AutoOwners Insurance

Champion Chrysler * Jeep * Dodge

This unique members-only program allows you to enjoy: Preferred pricing on new and used vehicles Complimentary membership in the OwnerCare program An additional $500 trade-in allowance 10% off all parts and service work

Auto-Owners Insurance
Auto-Owners Insurance is proud to offer special savings programs on commercial and personal lines of insurance. Chamber members are eligible for discounts of 12% on business, 10% on home and personal umbrella, and 8% on personal automobile insurance.

Sams Club
Chamber members will receive a $10 Sams Club Gift Card if you sign up or renew your membership. If you upgrade to Sams Club Plus, you will receive a $25 Sams Club Gift Card.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan

The Chambers exclusive sponsored plan with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan offers businesses a wide variety of choices for traditional coverage. Your group contract in the Chambers program will receive free direct billing and administrative assistance, saving you time and money.

JMann Consulting Group, LLC

JMann Consulting offers a 10% discount on a human resources review. This recognizes strengths and identifies any needs for improvement in your HR people practices. For more information, please contact Shannon Lounsberry or Jason Green, our business development managers. Shannon may be reached at (517) 853-6463 or slounsberry@lansingchamber.org and Jason may be reached at (517) 853-6474 or jgreen@lansingchamber.org.

15
MAY 2013

Comcast Business Class

The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce and Comcast Business Class offer exclusive pricing options for Chamber members.

The St. Johns High School Band hit a high note on Thursday, March 21 as LAFCU presented the band with a check for $1000. This donation was made possible by LAFCUs generous Band Sponsorship at the 2013 Lansing Regional Chamber Annual Dinner. These funds will be used to purchase raincoats for the band. From L-R: Tim Daman (LRCC), Kelli A. Ellsworth-Etchinson (LAFCU), members of the St. Johns High School Band, Roy Davis, Jr. (St. Johns High School Band Director), and Patrick Spyke (LAFCU).

FOCUS

Members On The Move

People News
Abraham & Gaffney, P.C., Certified Public Accountants, is pleased to announce the accomplishments of one of our Auburn Hills audit team members. Michael Thompson who was hired in August 2012, has just passed the fourth and final part of the CPA exam. MAYOTTEgroup Architects would like to welcome Sara Tripp and Marie Broxholm as new members of the organization. Sara joins the production team and Marie is the new receptionist and executive assistant. Nearly nine-year-old design and marketing firm Rizzi Designs has added two new team members to the growing organization. Graphic designer Sarah Garner and media developer Kristen Overberg bring the total staff at Rizzi Designs to ten. The Capital Region Airport Authority announces that Brent Case, director of foreign trade zone and global logistics development, recently received the Certified Global Business Professional credential. MSU Federal Credit Union has announced the hiring of Christina Minnis as vice president of marketing. Angela Averill Christina Minnis Attorney Brian Gallagher of the Fraser Trebilcock law firm has been named one of this years Top 5 Under 35 by the Ingham County Bar Association. Kim Laforet Board of Directors for being the not-for-profit lead on patient safety. Thirty-six Tomie Raines, Inc. real estate agents were awarded Quality Service Certified Gold and Platinum status in recognition of exceptional service satisfaction, measured and compiled for 2012 by Leading Research Corporation. All Tomie Raines, Inc. agents are QSC Certified and detailed results of the agents customer surveys are posted online at tomieraines.com, QualityCertified.org and RatedAgent.com. Chairmans Circle. As a privilege of membership, Broker/Owners Bob Hubbell and Bill MacLeod are invited to attend a retreat exclusively for Chairmans Circle members to be held in Aspen Colorado. Karen Grannemann, currently serving as the University Clubs chief operating officer, has been chosen to lead the U-Club following the retirement of current chief executive officer/general manager Richard Bruner in 2014. Ten high school students from Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, Ionia and Shiawassee counties who are interested in pursuing careers in health care have been awarded college scholarships by Physicians Health Plan.

16
MAY 2013

FOCUS

Lynn VanDeventer

Mike Parsley

Brian Gallagher Park Dental Okemos is now open in the beautiful and newly renovated Doctors Approach building located just minutes from Michigan State University and I-96. Wallace Walker, DDS, of Park Dental Okemos is a board-certified Wallace Walker dentist, offering a variety of specialty and affordable general dentistry services. Christine Chesny, a member of LeadingAge Michigan, has been approved by the Michigan Health & Hospital Association (MHA) Foundation Board as a member of the MHA Keystone Centers

Five Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood Realtors were recently honored by Coldwell Banker, as Best of the Best, ranking in the top one percent of the 82,000 Coldwell Banker Agents International for residential Carin Whybrew real estate units sold in 2012: Lynn VanDeventer, number one in volume for Michigan and the northern region; Mike Parsley, number seven in units sold in the nation. Also ranking in the top one percent were Angela Averill, Kim Laforet and Carin Whybrew.

Congratulations to the 2012 PHP FamilyCare Scholarship winners, who were honored at a recent PHP board meeting. Pictured (from left) are: Dr. David Kaufman, PHP Board member; Scott Wilkerson, PHP President/CEO; Alex Cousineau, $1,000 scholarship winner; Allison Middleton, $1,000 scholarship winner; Paige Groom, $1,000 scholarship winner; Lea Schafer, $500 scholarship winner; Katherine Hart, $500 scholarship winner; and Dr. Timothy Hodge, PHP Board member.

MSU Federal Credit Union awarded Nathaniel Pasmanter and Alexandra Tricozzi, two spring Michigan State University graduates, with $3,200 professional makeovers in its ninth annual Graduate Makeover Contest.

Nathaniel Pasmanter and Alexandra Tricozzi

Bob Hubbell

Bill MacLeod

Granger Construction has announced that Christian Cole has been hired as the firms new sales manager.

Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood has been named to the prestigious Coldwell Banker

Members On The Move

The Michigan Nonprofit Association named Donna Murray-Brown as president and chief executive officer of the group that serves as the collective voice advocating for Michigans nonprofit organizations. Karen Selin has joined the team of Tomie Raines, Inc. as sales and training manager. McLaren Medical Group welcomes Labony Mookerjee, M.D. to McLaren Greater Lansing Okemos Community Medical Center, located at 2140 Jolly Road, Suite 240, Okemos. Marc Mellor Peter Roffle Labony Mookerjee Attorney Brian Gallagher has been elected as chair of the Board of Directors for Highfields, Inc. Gallagher joined the board in 2009, continuing a long legacy of lawyers from Fraser Trebilcock who have served on the Highfields board for more than 35 years.

Karen Selin Portland Federal Credit Union (PFCU) has announced that CEO & president Gary May retired, effective April 27, 2013. PFCU also announced the selection of Harvey Hoskins as the new CEO/ president and Michele Makley as executive vice president. On April 1, 2013, Christopher VanDeventer became the president of the Regional Steel Distribution Center (RSDC). RSDC, a subsidiary of MarubeniITOCHU Steel America Inc., is the largest metal coil and blank processor in North America. Michael J. Krzyminski, MBA has joined ATIGROUP as the general manager.

NAI Mid-Michigan has announced the following additions to their sales force: Marc Mellor will specialize in commercial real estate sales and leasing; Peter Roffle will specialize in the sales and leasing of retail and office properties. William Lemanski of Meiers & Lombardini Insurance Services in East Lansing has been named chair to the Young Agents Council of the Michigan Association of Insurance Agents. William Lemanski Summit Community Bank recently announced the addition of Jane Sherzer to their commercial lending executive team.

Brian Gallagher

17
MAY 2013

Christopher VanDeventer

Jane Sherzer

First time golfers welcome!

Marie Mason Emily Yelvington

Michael Krzyminski Shelley Mannino has been named business services assistant director for Peckham, Incs Business Services Division. Congratulations to Marie Mason, staffing specialist at Elwood Staffing, for achieving her certification as a Certified Staffing Professional (CSP). The company also announced that Emily Yelvington has been promoted to customer service manager Hospice of Lansing, a nonprofit community-based independent hospice, is pleased to welcome John Person as its new executive director.

Save the Date!

September 19, 2013 Timber Ridge Golf Club
Visit www.cawlm.com or call 517.203.0123 to register
C A P I T A L A R E A

Shelley Mannino

John Person

FOCUS

Members On The Move

Thomas Korff has been named IT Help Desk program manager for Peckham Inc.s Business Services Division. prizes. The grand prize of $25,000, sponsored by MSUFCU, went to Kymeria Advanced Materials, created by Cameron Smith, Vincent Alessi, Dave Hatfield and Reed Schick. They are currently developing new chemistry for ceramics, which brings the benefits of existing advanced ceramics to new parts and markets. Plante Moran, one of the nations largest accounting and business advisory firms, was named Employer of the Year at the second International Accounting Bulletin Awards celebration, held March 14 in London. This is the second year in a row Plante Moran was recognized with this honor. East Lansings Art for Charlie Foundation, created by a local family with a terminally ill child, marked its first anniversary this week by donating $20,000 to the Sparrow Foundation to fund pediatric palliative care at Sparrow. Named in honor of Charlie Waller, the four-year-old East Lansing boy diagnosed with terminal brain stem cancer, the Foundation raises money through art events and art sales to provide hospice care for very ill children and to help families who suffer from the loss of a child.

Thomas Korff

Company News
The five-acre parcel of land at 810 W. Ottawa in downtown Lansing has been sold for future development by RE/MAX Commercial Brokers. The new owner intends to begin consulting with City and neighborhood officials to work within the City of Lansing Master Plan to best utilize the site. McLaren Greater Lansing has been named a Blue Distinction Center+ in the areas of knee and hip replacement and spine surgery by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.

FOCUS

Clark Construction Company has been awarded the Associated General Contractors of Americas 14th Annual Construction Safety Excellence Award.

18
MAY 2013

East Lansings Art for Charlie Foundation presented a $20,000 donation to the Sparrow Foundation during a recent event in the lobby of Sparrow Hospital. At the ceremony were (l-r): Charlie Waller, his mother Abigail, father John, Dr. Stephen Guertin, pediatric nurse, Cheri Salazar, pediatric oncologist, Dr. Bradd Hemker and Jodi Spicer, Art for Charlie Foundation. Accepting the AGC of America Construction Award on behalf of Clark Construction are, l-r: Ken Lawless, Sam Clark and Chuck Clark.

Registration is now open for Cooley Law Schools 5K Race for Education and Impression 5 Half Marathon, both part of the Capital City River Run Weekend of Races, a premiere annual running event in downtown Lansing. Participants may register for the Sunday, Sept. 15 races at www.ccriverrun.com, active.com or in person at Playmakers, 2299 West Grand River Ave. in Okemos. Jons Country Burger (3015 S. Cedar Street, Lansing) a former 1960s drive-in turned family-style restaurant, is changing once more. The restaurant has been sold to experienced restaurateur Anton Prenja. The new restaurant will feature Greek, Mediterranean and American food selections and will be called Athenas Diner. Sparrow Clinton Hospital in St. Johns recently earned national recognition from iVantage Health Analytics as one of the top 100 Critical Access Hospitals in the United States. The 2013 Greenlight Business Model Competition, created by Spartan Innovation and MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) offered entrepreneurs from around Michigan an opportunity to pitch their business ideas and compete for $50,000 in

MSU Federal Credit Union was recently recognized as one of West Michigans 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For by the Michigan Business and Professional Association. McLaren Greater Lansing has acquired Redi Care Southan urgent care office located at 6910 S. Cedar Street in south Lansingthat has been treating the emergency medicine needs of greater Lansing for 30 years. The operation will be rebranded as McLaren Redi Care South Lansing. For the second consecutive year, GreenStone Farm Credit Services has been named one of the 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For by the National Association for Business Resources (NABR). This honor comes after GreenStone was recently recognized as one of West Michigans 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For by the Michigan Business and Professional Association. GreenStone Farm Credit Services celebrated National Ag Day in a big way with Patronage Day on March 19, when the cooperative disbursed a record-setting $26.5 million patronage payment to its members. GreenStone has paid more than $134 million in patronage to its members during the eight-year history of the program. After six weeks of competition with 19 other local charities, the Boys & Girls

Members On The Move

Club of Lansing was awarded the grand prize in the University Club of MSUs Big Bang-quet Community Charity Challenge a $10,000 credit toward a fundraising event at the University Club, plus $15, 781.50 earned from their votes. The program is co-sponsored by MSU Federal Credit Union and the Capital Region Community Foundation. The event raised $61,070 for 20 local charities. Hobbs + Black Associates, Inc. has been awarded the Two Men and a Truck Headquarters Expansion project. The $4.25 million project will add approximately 25,000 square feet to their existing 35,000 square foot facility. Astera Credit Union is celebrating the grand opening of its Saginaw Hwy. location, 5615 W. Saginaw Hwy. Lansing, MI. Thomas M. Cooley Law School hosted the 59th Annual National Conference of Law Reviews in Lansing, Mich., from March 21 through March 23, 2013. Some 250 law students from 62 different law schools attended the conference, where legal experts shared their experiences related to student-edited law publications.

L to R: Patrick McPharlin (MSUFCU), April Clobes (MSUFCU), Robin MinerSwartz (CRCF), Carmen Turner (Boys & Girls Club), Robin Grinnell (CRCF), Karen Grannemann (U-Club) and Evan Pinsonnault (WLNS-TV).

MSU Federal Credit Union has announced a $1 million donation to the Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum at Michigan State University for the MSU Federal Credit Union Artist Studio Series Endowment. This gift will bring renowned artists to MSUs campus to provide engagement opportunities for MSU students and faculty, school children throughout Mid-Michigan and the general public.

GreenStone Farm Credit Services has released its 2012 Annual Report, Our Story.The report highlights the exceptional year the association experienced in 2012, including the cooperatives record net earnings of $126.2 million. Rizzi Designs announces the launch of their new 3D animation division, RD3D. This most recent addition to the offerings at the full-service marketing firm gives current and new clients a unique way to enhance their promotional and internal materials. Building on more than a decade of cooperation that has led to a number of joint degree programs and shared facility initiatives in Grand Rapids and Lansing, Western Michigan University and the Thomas M. Cooley Law School are discussing the possibility of a stronger alliance that would create a formal affiliation between Cooley, a private law school, and WMU. Blue Diamond Concierge has signed a Partnership Agreement with Grayce Gilette-Drummond Langheine of York Pennsylvania. That office is expecting to open by the end of May. Blue Diamond is fine tuning the processes developed to launch franchise opportunities by the end of 2013. A local TV show, LRN 101, has won a national award for their educational programming in the Greater Lansing area which promotes keep learning. LRN 101, produced by Such Video, won the 2013 Hometown Media Award in the Independent Producer Category for Best of Magazine Shows hosted by the Alliance for Community Media, which recognizes the best community media programming each year.

MSUFCU check presentation for the Broad Art Museum, l-r: John R. Brick, Ph.D., Chairman of MSUFCUs Board of Directors, presenting MSUFCUs donation to MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon along with members of the MSUFCU Board of Directors and MSUFCUs president and CEO, Patrick McPharlin.

Crosaires, a home for aging adults in Williamston has been selected to receive the Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Centers Best Small Business Award.

MAY 2013

Internet innovator Conpoto LLC announced that the company and Albion College have agreed to provide an original new service to Albion students and their friends and families. With just a couple of taps on their smart phone, parents can now buy their students a delicious coffee drink or baked treat at the colleges Read Between The Grinds coffee shop located in Stockwell Memorial Library.

19
Spencer Abraham speaks to students during the March 21 National Conference of Law Reviews.

FOCUS

The Stadium District 500 East Michigan Avenue, Suite 200 Lansing, MI 48912 Ph. 517.487.6340 lansingchamber.org Address Correction Requested

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

LANSING, MI PERMIT NO. 622

Ready to lend. Here to get you there.

When a bank understands your business, it becomes a trusted advisor. When a bank is locally based, it becomes more invested in the community. And, when a bank seeks to build a long-term relationship, it can give you lasting insights. Discover a bank thats focused on where you are, and where you want to bea bank thats making a difference for businesses from Lansing to Grand Rapids, to Holland.

Here to get you there.

MercBank.com/Business Phone 517.853.2700