GLBM April 2017

APRIL 2017

JILL MARLAN A wealth of experience invested in people

IN THIS ISSUE •

FORD PROVIDES JOBS TO INDIVIDUALS WITH AUTISM

•

BEHIND THE SCENES WITH LAUREN AITCH

•

EXAMINING THE BUSINESS OF FRANCHISING

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APRIL 2017 ON THE COVER Ford provides jobs to individuals with autism.......................10 Jill Marlan................................................................................................18 Behind the Scenes with Lauren Aitch........................................48 Examining the business of franchising......................................46

NEWS Greater Lansing Convention & Visitor Bureau celebrates record-breaking 2016................................................. 6 A place for everyone............................................................................8

APRIL 2017

18

FEATURE

Commentary.................................................................................................................................................. 4

JILL MARLAN

2017 Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards special section....................................... 11

A wealth of experience invested in people

Entrepreneurism as a feild of study................................................................................................ 44 Visual Breakdown..................................................................................................................................... 50 Economy........................................................................................................................................................ 52 IN THIS ISSUE •

FORD EXPANDS AUTISM HIRING

•

BEHIND THE SCENES WITH LAUREN AITCH

•

EXAMINING THE BUSINESS OF FRANCHISING

Greater Lansing at a Glance................................................................................................................ 54 Legislative Corner.................................................................................................................................... 56 Business Calendar.................................................................................................................................... 58

Cover photography by Erika Hodges

Notable News............................................................................................................................................. 59

Greater Lansing Business Monthly | Volume 30, Issue 4

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Greater Lansing Business Monthly is published monthly by M3 Group at 614 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933. Periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Michigan USPO. USPS number 020w807.

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COMMENTARY

G R E AT E R

L A N S I N G

BUSINESS MONTHLY

Publisher: Tiffany Dowling tiffany@m3group.biz Sales Manager: Jennifer Hodges jhodges@m3group.biz Editor: Kelly Mazurkiewicz kelly@m3group.biz Media Manager: Jill Bailey Account Managers: Austin Ashley Megan Fleming Manny Garcia Art Director: Mark Warner Communications Director: Ami Iceman-Haueter Graphic Designers: Angela Carlone Kerry Hidlay Nikki Nicolaou Photographer: Erika Hodges Web Manager: Skylar Kohagen Event Calendar Manager: Jaime Hardesty

GLBM Editorial Board: April Clobes — President and CEO, MSU Federal Credit Union Calvin Jones — Government Relations Director, Lansing Board of Water & Light Lisa Parker — Director of Alumni Career and Business Services, Michigan State University Alumni Association Deb Muchmore — Partner, Kandler Reed Khoury & Muchmore

MAKING CONNECTIONS,

INSPIRING SUCCESS G

etting an opportunity to connect with entrepreneurs is a benefit of the job. It is interesting to hear from new business owners on what inspired them to take the leap, or get an understanding of what they are concerned about in their worlds dayto-day. After recognizing thriving businesses at the Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards, I was asked to speak at a couple of leadership and small business events. It’s fun to do and if I can help them in a small way – even better. Below, I answer a few of the questions I heard at these events.

How do you achieve work life balance?

A young mother asked this question because she is excited about starting a business but is also worried about spending enough time with her young children. She wondered how parents make it all work. The short answer is that it’s not easy and there really isn’t a balance. Finding the perfect situation for you is the trick. Don’t hold yourself to a standard that someone else decides for you. I was lucky because my husband worked from home the majority of our son’s younger years. And, when I couldn’t be at the sporting event, he would tape the game and I would spend quality time reviewing it with a play-by-play by my son. I didn’t find any shortcuts when it came to putting in enough time to building my business and raising a family.

What was your biggest mistake?

This question always makes me think that it probably hasn’t happened – YET. What I generally say is that I just don’t view my past challenges as a mistake. I take risks and sometimes they don’t pay off the way I had anticipated or hoped, but I learn from them and make adjustments to my plan. I don’t wallow in self-pity and I don’t do regret. I always make the best decision possible with the information I had at the time. If you’re too afraid of making mistakes, you’ll never move forward.

What is the best part of owning your own business?

Like so many things, this area will vary from entrepreneur to entrepreneur. For me, the best part of leading a company is the ability to solve problems with a like-minded team. I also get to decide the direction we should go. This could be geographic or product or service related, but it’s fun for me to get an opportunity to decide the path and lead a group of people in that direction. I wouldn’t be able to give that up.

If you’re thinking about starting a business or you have questions about the path you’re on, don’t hesitate to reach out to a business owner you admire. Most entrepreneurs like to share their stories and want you to be successful. They will help you if they can.

Most of all keep moving and don’t be afraid to try new things or make a mistake.

Be dynamic in all you do,

Tom Ruis — Vice President, Fifth Third Bank Doug Klein — Executive Director, Mason Area Chamber of Commerce Mark Hooper — Partner, Andrews Hopper Pavlik Tiffany Dowling | Publisher

Diontrae Hayes — Supervisor Charter Township of Lansing

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GREATER LANSING CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU CELEBRATES RECORD-BREAKING 2016

BY MICKEY HIRTEN

Because it sprawls across the region and often happens in small, but significant slices, the Lansing region’s travel and tourism economy is one of the area’s quieter economic drivers.

But not this year. Celebrating record-breaking hotel occupancy, with room rates topping more than $100 a night, and proclaiming a new study pegging the sector’s economic input at $1.1 billion, the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau (GLCVB) is talking milestones.

“This was truly an historic year for the Lansing region,” said GLCVB President and CEO, Jack Schripsema. In a buoyant annual meeting with a record turnout, Schripsema, read off a list of accomplishments and progress that, with broad community support, sets the Lansing region apart from other tourist destinations in Michigan.

In 2016, lodging occupancy was 64 percent, compared with 61 percent in 2015 and 58 percent in 2014. And the average rate in 2016 increased to $101.82 per night. In 2015, it was $98.28. GLCVB said the region drew more than 4.8 million visitors last year with direct spending topping $602 million. Altogether the 6

segment supports 11,000 local jobs accounting for $336 million in wages.

“For the first time in the history of the GLCVB, lodging partners in the region reported over one million hotel rooms consumed for the year. It’s an indicator of the future demand we will see in our region,” Schripsema said. He boasted that the Lansing region, for the second year in a row, topped the Michigan average occupancy rate of 60.7 percent and that it was closing in on the national average of 65.5 percent.

“It is higher rates,” he added, “that allows the lodging industry to maintain and modernize its facilities.” The industry expects the average daily rate to increase at a modest rate.

The GLCVB tracks its success by measuring hotels, restaurants, meetings and events in Lansing and the surrounding counties. In 2017, it is focusing on increasing visitors to the region, building summer tourism and enhancing its collaboration with Michigan State University.

For 2017, Mark Alley, vice president of Global Protective Services and Public Affairs at Emergent BioSolutions, will chair the Bureau’s

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APRIL 2017

board of directors. He predicts slow but steady growth for the tourism industry, acknowledging that big gains are less likely than the sustainable efforts that contributed to the million-plus hotel room marker. But he suggested that two developments – a second hotel in downtown Lansing and the long-delayed casino attached to the Lansing Center – could reshape the region’s tourist industry.

Lansing’s 30-year non-compete agreement with the Radisson Hotel has ended, clearing the way for incentive packages that could lure a developer to downtown properties. The lack of hotel space in the city has long been viewed as a challenge in luring larger conventions. The casino project remains a long shot and U.S. Interior Department authorization, a needed first step, has languished.

During its upbeat annual meeting, the GLCVB acknowledged the strength of its mid-size and steady approach to travel and tourism in a series of Community Champions, volunteer and partnership awards. The Bureau recognized organizations as diverse as the Great Lakes Planetarium Association and Lansing Derby Vixens roller-derby team for their efforts in

NEWS

bringing convention and event business to the greater Lansing area.

Singled out for special recognition were two groups who received Milestone Awards for 50 years of meeting in Lansing: the Michigan Assisted Living Association and a popular favorite with the Bureau, the Great Lakes Ice Cream & Fast Food Association.

COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS Huey-Wen Lin, Ph.D., Alexei Bazavov, Ph.D., Andrea Shindler, Ph.D. International Symposium on Lattice Field Theory: The 36th Annual International Symposium on Lattice Field Theory will be held at the Kellogg Center in July 2018 and will attract more than 500 participants.

Great Lakes Planetarium Association: In October 2018, Dr. Shannon Schmoll, the Director of Michigan State University’s Abrams Planetarium, will host 200 colleagues at the Henry Center and showcase MSU’s newly enhanced planetarium. The very first meeting of the Great Lakes Planetarium Association took place in East Lansing in 1964.

James Tiedje, Ph.D., International Symposium on the Environmental Dimension of Antibiotic Resistance: In August 2017, East Lansing and MSU’s Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics will welcome 250 global researchers to discuss the most recent research and the implications for human health caused by the threat of multidrug resistant strains of pathogens.

Kathie Dunbar, Hawk Island Triathlon: This unique sprint triathlon was the first of its kind in Michigan and was the first race of any kind in Michigan to be certified “Green.” Over the past 10 years, the event has seen more than 5,500 athletes participate.

Lansing Derby Vixens: In Aug. 2016, the Derby Vixens hosted the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association D2 International Playoffs, bringing 10 teams and hundreds of athletes from across the globe to the Summit Sports and Ice Complex.

Scott Dane, Capital Area Soccer League: Dane was responsible for championing inclusive play in the region, developing the Beacon Field project and organizing the CASL’s largest

fundraising event, the Capital City Classic, which attracted more than 100 teams from across Michigan and the surrounding states.

SPORTS PARTNER OF THE YEAR The National United Wrestling Association for Youth: In July 2016, NUWAY hosted more than 2,000 wrestlers from 22 states at the Lansing Center for the “Grand River Rumble,” the first wrestling event ever held at the Lansing Center.

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Nancy Simpson: In 2016, Simpson served as co-chair for the Eastern Great Lakes Figure Skating Championships, an event that drew 600 skaters to Suburban Ice in East Lansing.

Mickey Hirten is an award winning writer and editor. He has been executive editor of the Lansing State Journal, the Burlington Free Press in Vermont, and was the financial editor and a columnist for the Baltimore Evening Sun. He is the current president of the Michigan Press Association. His wife, Maureen Hirten, is director of the Capital Area District Library.

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IMMIGRANTS:

WE GET THE

JOB DONE! — from Hamilton: An American Musical

A PLACE FOR EVERYONE

BY OMAR SOFRADZIJA

That isn’t simply a line from a smash hit on Broadway. It’s also workplace reality throughout the greater Lansing area. Just ask Judi Harris, who as refugee services director for St. Vincent Catholic Charities of Lansing, helps scores of refugee workers from around the world find employment here.

Around 500 refugees were placed in midMichigan jobs by St. Vincent in 2016. “I think they’re a tremendous asset,” Harris said of refugees. “We work with a lot of different employers … who need all kinds of workers.” Such industries include warehousing, accounting, manufacturing, laundry services, guest services, temp work, nursing assistance and other medical roles.

Refugees aren’t looking for handouts; just help to get started and situated. “First and foremost, refugees bring great assets they’re ready to utilize once they’re acclimated to their surroundings,” said Erika Brown-Binion, director of Lansing’s Refugee Development Center, which works with St. Vincent.

“Refugees don’t just come to us without skills,” Brown-Binion said. “Many of them had businesses in their home communities, and degrees and 8

education ... They come here with skills and dreams to rebuild that life they had at home.”

“Just welcoming refugees in general has long been one of America’s core values,” BrownBinion said. “They are fleeing terror, trying to start a new life. They want to be safe. They want to be welcomed and they want to start anew. We forget that sometimes.”

Those seeking both refuge and work in the Capital City region recently received the endorsement of Lansing Mayor, Virg Bernero; who, in a prepared statement earlier this year, called Lansing a “Welcoming City.”

“I stand with the thousands of immigrants and refugees that have resettled in Lansing over the decades. Lansing, like America, was built by immigrants from all over the world, who came to this country seeking their own version of the American Dream. Immigrants like my father, Giulio, who started his own small business and then worked for GM to provide a middle-class lifestyle that put his kids through college,” the Mayor’s statement said.

More than 200 area workplaces host refugee workers via St. Vincent. Many jobs are

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manufacturing-centered in Lansing and Delta Township. There are also employers as far away as Williamston and Owosso, according to Harris.

“We’ve even had employers tell us they don’t know what they’d do without us,” Harris said.

According to Harris, many of the most recent refugees come from the Congo, Somalia, Sudan, Burma and Afghanistan, among other nations.

“We have people that are coming in who are very dedicated. They want to start a new life. They just want to come in and work hard,” Harris said.

“These workers tend to stick around.”

“When they come in (to a new job), that becomes their home and their family; so they become very attached,” Harris said. “The retention rate is so much stronger” than with native workers. “We have very strong employers who like to work with our clients … There’s a place for everybody.”

St. Vincent has a comprehensive employee training program which includes a basic orientation of up to four weeks regarding local laws and is followed by a more detailed, 16-hour training program specific to employment called ‘Working in America.’

NEWS

“It is everything from how to get a job, interviews, resumes, how to quit a job, everything they need,” Harris said. “(They learn about) sexual harassment, all kinds of things.

We have demonstrations and role-plays.”

There is also a special skills training period.

If St. Vincent knows a refugee will go to a specific workplace, they will send a representative to the employer and develop a program specific to the role, and then train the refugee to the particulars of the specific job before they start.

“We’ll do a special one for hotels, for example — the proper cleaning products, how to do hospital corners,” Harris said. “So that when they start a job, they’re ready when they get there. Employers are really happy about that.”

Challenges include learning the English language. “It just takes a little time” Harris said.

“And, working helps them learn more quickly through language exposure.”

“We provide English classes six days a week right now. They’re all full. People are wanting to learn English,” said Brown-Binion. “Some of these people are coming every day of the week that classes are available.”

Another challenge is transportation, for refugees who may need time to ease into America’s unique car culture. Fortunately, most employers are within reach via public transportation services and carpooling is provided for some further-away work places.

It isn’t just a refugee who gets something out of the opportunity to work here. So do native workers who otherwise may never meet a refugee face to face.

“That’s how people meet refugees. We have a mantra: anybody who doesn’t love a refugee hasn’t met a refugee. We want every workplace to have someone,” Harris said. “We try to put

people in as many places as possible so that everyone understands what we’re doing.”

In Bernero’s statement he claimed, “Our city is a rich tapestry of multicultural populations, enriching our community with their customs, their ideas and their commitment to a better Lansing for everyone.”

Brown-Binion said diversity adds to the experiences of everyone living here. “Learning a different culture, different experiences, being a neighbor… refugees bring so much more to our communities to make them better places.”

Online, go to stvcc.org/services/refugeeservices to learn more about refugee programs at St. Vincent. More information on the Refugee Development Center can be found at refugeedevelopmentcenter.org.

Omar Sofradzija is an adjunct journalism instructor at Michigan State University. Prior to that, he was a reporter, columnist and editor at the Las Vegas (Nev.) Review-Journal and Peoria (Ill.) Journal Star. He lives in Haslett.

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Brown-Binion said her agency offers ongoing training regarding resumes, filling out job

applications, using computers and other career skills; after-school programs and summer camp for refugee workers’ kids; as well as continuing popular English education tools.

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NEWS

FORD PROVIDES JOBS TO INDIVIDUALS WITH AUTISM

BY SARAH SPOHN

In 1903, Henry Ford launched Ford Motor Company in a factory on Mack Avenue in downtown Detroit. A decade later, the world would be revolutionized by Ford’s concept of the assembly line, and over the next 100 years, the iconic car company would become one of the largest family-controlled companies worldwide.

While their products continue to be cuttingedge technology, it’s a different facet of the car company that’s making waves these days. Ford launched its FordInclusiveWorks pilot program in 2016 to provide individuals with autism opportunities to gain work experience.

Partnering with the nonprofit, Autism Alliance of Michigan, the pilot started small, according to Kirstin Queen, manager of Diversity and Inclusion at Ford Motor Company. The idea came from a similar program Microsoft launched, which Queen learned about at an autism awareness breakfast.

She spoke with Colleen Allen, Ph.D., president & CEO of Autism Alliance of Michigan, and brought back the idea to her co-workers at Ford.

Queen was surprised at the huge amount of enthusiasm for the program.

“Autism is a personal passion of mine,” Queen said. “I have a family member on the spectrum.

I was really impressed by the number of people within our company who share that same passion, who have an appreciation for autism at varying levels in the company.”

The program was launched to level the playing field for employees of all backgrounds and skill levels, and provide additional opportunities for those who might not otherwise get jobs.

“We wanted to launch this program initially because of the high rate of under and unemployment of this population,” Queen said.

“Up to 90 percent of individuals with autism are under or unemployed, but up to 50 percent of them have average or above average intelligence.”

That population faces many more challenges than the typical job seeker, but Ford’s program 10

includes support, training and guidance for employees. The pilot began in Ford’s vehicle evaluation and verification organization within the product development area.

The program includes training for both the individual as well as co-workers, management and teams who will be working with the individual. While the supervisors, adjacent employees and human resources staff are trained by the Autism Alliance of Michigan, the special needs workers are also learning during the 30 to 90-day training period.

“In this way, we help proactively create an environment of inclusion for the individual who is going to be joining the workforce,” Queen said. “The Autism Alliance of Michigan provided job coaching to ensure that there is positive communication and working relationships between the individuals with autism and their supervisor and work team. The intent is to create a functioning, long-lasting relationship that can be sustained without the presence of a job coach in the future.”

Following the training period, all four pilot program individuals applied for their positions within Ford’s Dearborn headquarters and were granted employment. As for the expansion, the program will move into two other product development departments, information technology and a third unannounced area.

“We’re anticipating bringing on board between 12 and 24 additional individuals in 2017,” Queen said. “We’re really excited and that’s why it was important for us to start small so that we knew how to do this correctly and sustainably.”

Workers, new hires and community members are happy to hear of the unique program. Feedback from internal employees have only reconfirmed the program’s initial importance of creating an inclusive environment in the workforce.

Feedback showed both pride in Ford workers and also hope. Whether it’s a child, grandchild or neighbor affected, many people within the company have a close connection to autism.

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“When a company like Ford can do a program like this, where we are proactively seeking to understand how to best work with this population, it gives families hope,” Queen said, “If this can become more of the “norm” on how large companies do business, then there’s a potential to make a huge impact. And there’s going to be opportunities for these folks to work and contribute to companies in the future. We’re really proud of that.”

Cathy Gladstone, office coordinator for the Autism Society of Michigan recognizes the impact a program like Ford’s can have in paving the way for future companies. She works with Anne Carpenter, the society’s information and referral specialist, who has been employed there for almost 30 years. Anne, herself is autistic but provides a wealth of knowledge and resources for the society.

“Companies and organizations would be pleasantly surprised to learn people on the spectrum perform well when they are given the opportunity and training,” Gladstone said.

She spoke on the program and commends Ford for thinking outside of the box.

“It is certainly refreshing, to realize that perhaps as communities become more aware and accepting of autism, there will become more opportunities for a person on the autism spectrum. Ultimately, being able to live, work and have the opportunities known to those that are not on the autism spectrum is what would be the ideal,” Gladstone said.

While the challenges of everyday life and employment remain a reality for those with autism, companies like Ford are working hard to break stigmas and lay the groundwork for a better working environment for all.

Sarah Spohn received her degree in Journalism from Lansing Community College. She’s a concert junkie; living and breathing in both the local and national music scene. She is proud to call Lansing her home, finding a new reason every day to be smitten with the mitten.

AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards: Past Winners .............................14 23nd Annual Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards Showcase Local Business Success......................................................16 Entrepreneur of the Year ....................................................................................... 18 Greater Lansing Business of the Year ..............................................................22 Emerging Entrepreneur .......................................................................................... 24 Entrepreneurial Spirit .............................................................................................. 28 Socially Responsible Entrepreneur ................................................................... 30 Q&A: Chad Jordan, owner of Cravings Gourmet Popcorn................................................................................... 32 Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards photos........................................36 Auto-Owners Insurance: Outstanding Service Since 1957......................................................................... 40 A Judges Perspective................................................................................................ 42

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2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards

PAST WINNERS

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

NAME

COMPANY

Jeffrey McWherter Keith Granger

Owner CEO

Gravity Works Design Granger

Kellie Murphy Pat Gillespie Tom Kuschinski Nick Uppal Colin Cronin Raji Uppal

Owner Founder/President Co-Founder/President Co-Founder/ Corporate Treasurer Co-Owner/ Vice President Co-Owner/ Vice President

Kellie’s Consignments Gillespie Group DTN Management Co.

Ian Richardson Don McNabb

Founder/CEO Founder/CEO

Doberman Technologies Triterra

Mike Maddox Ron Boji Jeff Kresnak

President and CEO President Owner

ASK Boji Group Superior Asphalt

Crispin Velasquez Chris Johnson

President Founder/CEO

C&E Pipeline On Target Living

Ryan Lowe & Nikali Luke Mark Kraushaar & Leigh Kraushaar

Owners

Simplified Tax and Accounting Services Bell Title Company

Thomas Salisbury

President and Owner

Lance Thompson

President and CEO

Reliable Aftermarket Parts, Inc. Baseline Data Services, LLC

Stephen Russell

President

A/C Electrical Contractors

Rochelle Rizzi Peter W. Kramer

Owner President

Tiffany Klein Jack Davis

Owner Partner

Gary Seelye Claudia Deschaine

President Grants Manager

Rizzi Designs Kramer Management Group, Inc. La Fille Gallery Loomis, Ewert, Parsley, Davis & Gotting Seelye Group LTD Dart Foundation

D.L. Kesler

Owner

D.L. & Sons Kesler Construction

Amy Trahey

President

Bo Noles Angela Witwer and Lorri Rishar Jandron Dr. John Wycoff Chad Jordan Justin Caine Barbara Fails Raftshol

President and CEO President and CEO

Chad Paalman

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POSITION

Owners

Owner Owner Founder Professor of Rural Entrepreneurship President

G R E AT E R L A N S I N G B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY

AWARD

LOCATION

Emerging Entrepreneur Socially Responsible Entrepreneur Entrepreneurial Spirit Entrepreneur of the Year Business of the Year

Lansing Lansing

Emerging Entrepeneur Socially Responsible Entrepreneur Entrepreneurial Spirit Entrepreneur of the Year Business of the Year

Mason Lansing

Emerging Entrepreneur Socially Responsible Entrepreneur Entrepreneurial Spirit

Lansing Bath

Entrepreneur of the Year

Okemos

Sales and Distribution Entrepreneur Information Technology Entrepreneur Construction Entrepreneur Marketing Entrepreneur Emerging Entrepreneur

Williamston

On the Rise Law Entrepreneur

Lansing Lansing

Service Entrepreneur Socially Responsible Organization Master Entrepreneur

Lansing Mason

Great Lakes Engineering Group, LLC Capital Imaging Edge Partnerships

Engineering

Lansing

Printing Professional Service

Lansing Lansing

Wycoff Wellness Center Cravings Gourmet Popcorn Good Fruit Video Michigan State University

Healthcare Emerging Entrepreneur Socially Responsible Socially Responsible

Lansing Lansing & Okemos Lansing East Lansing

NuWave Technology Partners

Technology

Multiple Michigan Locations

APRIL 2017

Okemos Lansing Lansing

Lansing Lansing Grand Rapids

Lansing

East Lansing Lansing Lansing Lansing

Bath

2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

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2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

23RD ANNUAL GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SHOWCASE LOCAL BUSINESS SUCCESS

BY MELISSA DOWRICK

On Thursday, March 2 Greater Lansing Business Monthly hosted the 23rd Annual Entrepreneurial Awards. Guests were welcomed at Eagle Eye Golf Course for a networking cocktail hour followed by dinner in the Grand Garden room. Community members, business

leaders, entrepreneurs and supporters were among the more than 300 guests who attended this year’s event.

Exchanges of greetings, shaking of hands, congratulations to nominees and nervous laughter and smiles led up to the awards ceremony.

Mingling in the crowd were many eager individuals excited for the evening to unfold.

“This is one of my favorite nights of the year,” Tiffany Dowling, president and CEO of M3

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2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

Group and publisher of Greater Lansing Business Monthly, said to the crowd during the awards. “It is my privilege to have an opportunity to showcase the amazing individuals taking risks every day and building businesses that grow our local economy.”

Each year, the judges are presented with a binder full of nominated business profiles, narratives and financial information, and are asked to choose a winner for five broad business categories. Qualifying nominees were presented to the judges to find a recipient for Emerging Entrepreneur, Socially Responsible Entrepreneur, Entrepreneurial Spirit, Entrepreneur of the Year and Greater Lansing Business of the Year.

Guest speaker Craig Dubitsky, founder and CEO of Hello Products, shared his success story. He encouraged attendee’s to follow their passion and work together to move business forward. His upbeat, creative and entertaining speech inspired all those in the room that evening.

“I believe that entrepreneurs help shape the local community,” added co-host Bob Hoffman, manager of Public Relations at Wharton Center and anchor for FOX-47’s Morning Blend. “It takes businesses of all shapes and sizes to create a robust economy, and that would not be possible without our entrepreneurs.”

Among the speakers for the night was Bruce Dunn of Maner Costerisan who spoke as a representative for the judges and who spent time independently and collectively reviewing the material submitted by the nominees. In addition to Dunn, this year’s judges included Don McNabb of Triterra, Melody Warzecha of Union Bank, Jeff Jackson of MSU Federal Credit Union, Debbie Petersmark of WILX TV 10, Chris Thelen of Consumers Energy, Stacie Newmann of Superior Asphalt, Michael Debri of Huntington Bank, Ian Richardson of Doberman Technologies, Kevin Kaplan of Physicians Health Plan and the support of Auto-Owners Insurance.

The winners were decided during a special judges meeting.

The elimination of some categories was a change that Dowling made in 2013 with the intention of casting a wider net and seeking honorees that truly qualify for each award, no matter the industry they were in.

This year Greater Lansing Business Monthly was proud to honor the following: • Entrepreneur of the Year – Jill Marlan, Peak Performance Physical Therapy • Greater Lansing Business of the Year –

Dewpoint, represented by Pat Maltby • Emerging Entrepreneur – Samuel Short, The Potent Potables Project • Entrepreneurial Spirit – Dawn-Marie Joseph, Estate Planning & Preservation • Socially Responsible Entrepreneur – Lynn Ross, Mother & Earth Baby Boutique Businesses come in all shapes, sizes, missions and unique selling propositions. The one thing every business has in common is that it continues to be the lifeblood of the economy. The greater Lansing region is home to amazing companies with the spirit and drive to make a big impact, just like those honored at the annual Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards Dinner.

As the evening came to a close, many past honorees offered their congratulations to the newly admitted winners. It is with the support of the community that these honorees will continue their success and go on to do great things.

Melissa Dowrick is a MSU graduate and M3 Group event planner. She is a wife, dog mom of two and a firsttime expecting mother. Her favorite season is fall and she loves fashion.

She embraces all the good things because life is too short to be unhappy!

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issue that arises with your typical therapy treatment is at the core of her brand’s emerging success.

ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR

“The traditional model is we evaluate them, we treat pain and then we discharge them. I believe that it’s a doctor’s profession, we should be focusing on providing patients with what we call case management,” explained Marlan. “The approach is to treat them like a person and look into things other than their pain to ensure that they’re healthy beyond the injury. To make sure they’re progressing beyond the injury for better health. We look outside of the box, typically other medical professions are box checkers.”

A passion for improving her patients’ overall health, beyond the typical role of a physical therapist, and a genuine empathy that extends through each member of her staff, has helped to define what separates Peak Performance from its competition.

Marlan and her team are firm believers in investing in people. The rule of thumb to treat patients as more than just a portion of the bottom line hasn’t gone unnoticed. At their current location they are seeing over 300 patients each week, and many are returning well beyond their recovery. Marlan’s promise of providing education to her patients on how to care for themselves and extending services beyond the life of each patient’s injury is a reflection on her personal experience.

Jill Marlan, founder of Peak Performance Physical Therapy, received the Entrepreneur of the Year award at the 23rd Annual Entrepreneurial Awards on March 2.

Photo by Erika Hodges

A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE INVESTED IN PEOPLE Jill Marlan, PT, MSPT, OMPT challenges what’s expected from healthcare providers

BY ADAM LANSDELL

If you’ve ever been to a physical therapist (PT), you know the drill. You’re referred by your doctor based on your injury. You go to the office, they take you through some arbitrary and repetitive exercises until your body is functioning properly again. Then you’re sent on your way — never to speak with your PT ever again. You’re back on track… and that might seem fine, but who’s to say you’ll never hurt yourself again or that symptoms won’t return?

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The spirit of being a great entrepreneur lies within one’s ability to creatively twist the formula of traditional business to your will. Flipping the physical therapy industry on its head and raising the bar for patient care by exceeding her patients’ expectations is exactly how this year’s Entrepreneur of the Year is finding success. Jill Marlan, founder of Peak Performance Physical Therapy, will be the first to acknowledge that the

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“What truly inspired me was some of my experience in healthcare and leadership,” Marlan said. “Going through college on a basketball scholarship, I had injuries myself and went through therapy. As I mentioned during my speech [at the 2017 Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards], I had my jaw dislocated during therapy.

The emergency room didn’t care for my injury and had me sit down instead of being compassionate.

Sure, there were probably more serious patient needs to respond to, but I believe that it doesn’t take any longer to provide compassion and service than it does to be rude. My biggest realization, in that moment, was that if I can make a difference to someone that walks into an environment in pain, back pain, sports injuries, whatever — if I could make a difference with kindness and compassion, one patient at a time, I would.”

To ensure she could do just that, Marlan dedicated her time as a student to developing the tools needed to help those in need.

Her illustrious slate of experience is truly something to marvel at. Marlan is a Board Certified Licensed Physical Therapist and a Certified Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapist.

And while those certifications are necessary for her to practice PT, her commitment to this field of medicine has pushed her well beyond the bare minimums. Additionally, she’s been a member

2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

of the State Board of Physical Therapy for the past eight years and chaired the board for the last three years. She’s worked with the board to improve the requirements of practitioners around the state by working diligently to implement continuing professional development requirements for all licensed physical therapists in the state of Michigan.

Marlan is the author of the “Translatoric Spinal Manipulation” textbook currently used in physical therapy doctoral educational programs around the country; a resident instructor for Oakland University’s (OU) Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy Program and Michigan State University’s (MSU) Kinesiology Program; a graduate of the Wayne State University Master’s in Physical Therapy Program, MSU Osteopathic Manual Manipulation Education Program and OU’s Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy Program.

While these accomplishments are surely worth gloating about, the biggest achievement for Marlan is the success of Peak Performance. Like any new endeavor, things aren’t going to be easy from the get go, but Marlan’s confidence and persistence have made each obstacle passable.

“I would say persistence is a huge component of our success. As an entrepreneur it’s your job to make the tough decision,” said Marlan. “It’s not always wine and roses; and the attempt to stay focused on your plan and the tasks at hand is hard. It’s about not letting that go ever, it’s challenged by things every day. Maintaining that persistence of morality and business is important to success, that’s very important; and so is laser focus to not get sidetracked. One of my things is the belief that success is a lease and rent is due every day. We look at our abilities on a regular basis, and feel that you’re only as good as you were the last minute.”

Marlan’s extraordinary integrity will soon allow her to continue fulfilling her promise to patients, as their facilities are expected to expand into a new building soon. Marlan is hopeful this next step will allow her to continue to care for patients and bring remedy to their pains. Marlan and her team are ready to take on the needs of each new community they’re lucky enough to become a member of and hope to continue growing as an integral member to their new homes. The brand plans to continue expanding one step at a time.

These exciting steps forward for the business are concrete evidence of success, as new acquisitions weren’t always so easy to come by.

“Financing was one of the biggest obstacles I faced,” reminisced Marlan. “When I started my business, I had already run two corporations and had actual numbers citing improvements of up

to 40 percent profit margins prior to starting my own, but even with that knowledge I couldn’t easily get financing. So I had to go through my parents and from that point on it’s been history.

I was able to pay them back within six months and be debt free within a year. I opened in 2011 when banks weren’t lending much money. Had I

been able to obtain financing it would have been easier, but it’s actually worked out phenomenally.

I haven’t needed additional financing but banks wouldn’t be an issue now.”

It goes without saying that Marlan and her experience is at the core of building the brand,

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into something beyond dreams or expectations, but it didn’t come easy. The potential of an idea lies within the commitment to stepping outside of the box and that’s something that Peak Performance thrives on as its growth has no end in sight.

Jill Marlan, founder of Peak Performance Physical Therapy, and her team at the 23rd Annual Entrepreneurial Awards on March 2.

but she’s quick to acknowledge this isn’t the case. The age old adage that it takes a village to raise a child, is similar to the situation at Peak Performance. Here it takes the compassion of each employee to help lift patients out of their suffering and onto a path of healing. Together they’re making a difference in the lives of many.

“We have people that truly understand the culture that we want to provide. People are your business

and that’s a huge thing to us,” explained Marlan.

“Being able to get people with the same drive and ethics allows you to do a lot with a little and I’m extremely lucky to have the team I have.

They’re high producers that provide quality and passion to the service they provide.”

If you find yourself with an idea and a passion – look toward Jill Marlan as an example to affirm your aspirations. Marlan has crafted her calling

“One of our mottos is that we give ‘exchange in abundance,’” mentioned Marlan. “The more you can give back, the greater chance it has to turn around and be of help to you. We’ve been blessed to be in this community and I’d like to thank them and anyone that’s been there to support us. People are the backbone of our company. Another thing to remember is to always be comfortable with being uncomfortable. We are going to be a presence in each community, a very positive one and our staff is going to continue to grow and strengthen their boundaries.”

Adam Lansdell is an Alumni of Grand Valley State University, and currently a Communication Specialist with M3 Group of Lansing. With a passion for all things creative it comes as no surprise that he’s also a musician, movie buff and graphic designer. Adam spends his down time biking, and spending too much of his personal income on concert tickets or vinyl records.

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GREATER LANSING BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Dewpoint is a Michigan-based company that provides services and solutions that help organizations solve business challenges with technology. Established in 1996, Dewpoint has become a leading systems integrator and technology firm. What separates Dewpoint from its competitors is its dedicated team of experienced professionals who have a deep understanding in providing IT solutions to government and commercial clients.

“I think one of the biggest differences is our people. Our team spends a lot of time focused on our clients’ needs and the business challenges that our clients face. And, when we focus on their needs, the rest of it all takes care of itself,” said Tom Cronin, vice president of Service Delivery at Dewpoint. “Our people take the time to understand our clients’ business. We have a lot of subject-dense experts and that helps significantly when they step in to work with the clients.”

Dewpoint’s outstanding culture is the company’s core focus. Working to make their employees feel valued and appreciated has resulted in growth across the board and a deeper understanding of the company. This commitment to Dewpoint’s vision filters through each employee and reaches the company’s client base through high-quality service and exceptional team members.

Pat Maltby, chief operating officer at Dewpoint, represented Dewpoint in receiving the Lansing Business of the Year award at the 23rd Annual Entrepreneurial Awards on March 2.

Photo by Erika Hodges

GEARED UP FOR GROWTH

BY AMI ICEMAN-HAUETER

You don’t become the Greater Lansing Business of the Year by accident. It takes strategic planning, consistent growth and dedicated employees to break the mold in business and 22

to set a new standard for the industry. Luckily, Dewpoint has all of those things and more, making this standup and stand out company a force to be reckoned with.

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“We listen to our people and we act upon it.

Anything from personal time-off to additional health care options, we’ve added because of our employees. Our employees’ opinions matter because we want to make it a great place to work,” said Michelle Massey, vice president of Dewpoint.

“Actually, we’ve been named a great place to work throughout Michigan. That’s based on employee surveys, so that says a lot. Our employees come first and we want to satisfy them; to make sure they want to be here for the long haul. So, we act on things that they suggest directly.”

And with an active team of more than 200 employees, Dewpoint shows no signs of slowing down in the years to come. With further growth on the horizon and a strong client base, Dewpoint is ready for whatever comes next.

“For me, from where I sit as COO, we want to grow our business, but not from a numbers or revenue standpoint,” said Pat Maltby, chief operating officer at Dewpoint. “We want to grow our business to make it sustainable for the long run. That means spreading out our customer base and diversifying it. What I engrain in my staff is the idea of growing the future and building longevity. The second part of my vision is that it’s a great place to work.

We need to make it so that 25 years from now, we’re going strong and people love to work

2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

here. We don’t have numbers to hit, we just want to make it stronger in the long run.”

Dewpoint has found additional support in the Lansing community. With strong partnerships in the area and team members that are committed to staying here, Dewpoint has been able to build its presence and expand its reach all from its location in downtown Lansing.

Nichols, program manager at Dewpoint. “I think Dewpoint is made of people that genuinely love and care about one another. One day it struck me that, ‘wow, our leadership team loves and cares about the employees’ and that’s something really special. It’s all about unity.”

Ami Iceman-Haueter is the Brand Manager at M3 Group. IcemanHaueter is a graduate of Michigan State University with a bachelors in creative advertising.

“You have quite a cross section of industries in the Lansing area from a business perspective, outside of having great entertainment, food and everything else,” Massey said. “It’s so much easier for us to be a part of the fabric of this community by being downtown and keeping engaged. Lansing is great, but being downtown specifically is phenomenal.

It helps us keep our finger on the pulse and stay close to our clients. When we intentionally moved here two years ago, we said, ‘You know what?

If we’re really going to grow and be a part of the community, we need to go downtown.’ It was us trying to figure out how to be more engaged.”

Dewpoint succeeded by becoming more engaged in the community and making a lasting impact.

The company grabbed the attention of the judges of the 2017 Great Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards and ultimately beat out the other nominees to become the 2017 Greater Lansing Business of the Year.

“I had already had myself set up for not winning, until they started describing the business and then we finally heard the name,” Massey said.

“I was truly shocked and honored because there were so many other submissions. It felt good to be recognized for doing good. Having been around for 20 years and being recognized makes us really proud. We started with 12 people at this company; to go from that to being where we are today is a huge honor. It’s a testament to the fact that you can be a small business and grow to make an impact just by being here.”

With even bigger plans for the future and their eye on the prize, Dewpoint will undoubtedly continue to be recognized as an influential player in the industry overall. But no matter where their business may take them, their mission will always focus on bettering their employees and building the community around them.

“For me personally, I’ve been in several industries here in Lansing; the automotive industry and the government. From a personal growth perspective, there is so much opportunity and I think that has been a great thing. I think another reason Dewpoint stands out is unity.

I’ve developed a huge network of peers and coworkers. I’m always running into people that are ambitious about improving,” said Lynn

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EMERGING ENTREPRENEUR

IF NOT THEM, THEN WHO? Uniting to craft the ultimate experience

BY ADAM LANSDELL

Sometimes, things just fall into place and they do so for a reason. On occasion the universe aligns the stars just perfectly to create magic — and that’s been exactly the case at hand for the owners of The Potent Potables Project, recipients of the 2017 Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Award’s Emerging Entrepreneur.

Forming in 2013, owners Aaron Matthews, Alan Hooper and Samuel Short have crafted an alliance that’s changing the food and beverage landscape of the Capital region. Birthed on an agreement that everything from beer, wine, food and atmosphere have the potential to culminate into the definitive dining experience, the trio

has crafted some of the hottest spots in Lansing: Zoobie’s Tavern, The Creole and The Cosmos.

For partners Matthews and Hooper, these endeavors were never intentional, but sometimes destiny rears its head towards you.

“Sure, everyone says it would be cool to own a bar — but beyond that, no. I never had any ideas of getting involved with this industry. Alan [Hooper] was the same way; we both worked in fast food and kitchens as kids but nothing gourmet,” explained Matthews. “Sam is the real expert on food and beverage. With that being said, we all work together and bring different perspectives to the table. I’ve always enjoyed

the industry as a customer, and when I travel I’m always bringing back new ideas, but we never had a plan – sometimes that’s the best way things work out.”

Just over three years later the trio is stronger than ever and the idea of stopping now likely seems unfathomable. With two new locations set to open in the coming year, The Dolson in Charlotte and Punk Taco, the group is leading the way of the emerging restaurant scene in Lansing. They’ve got a finger on the pulse and are working diligently to change an aging food and beverage landscape that’s been dormant and stale over the past few decades.

COMING SPRING 2018

CONGRATULATIONS to the 2017 Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Award Recipients!

Thank you for your community vision and leadership

www.lansingchamber.org

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The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce is proud to support the entrepreneurs and visionaries that are driving innovation, economic investment and job creation in the Greater Lansing region!

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“Trends you’re seeing in other local markets will be coming to Lansing faster. Lansing won’t be on the tail end of those trends as they were in the past,” explained Short. “Restaurants are coming back to their urban core. In the 90s there were these chains pushing out to suburbia and malls, but local dining experiences are changing that dynamic.”

Embracing the densely urban metropolis that is modern day Lansing has been a key component of the group’s undertakings thus far. With each having ties to the area, it seems a no brainer to invest in the people around them. While becoming business owners wasn’t always on the docket, the three realized that a call must be answered and that opportunity existed in the region.

“When you start to see density in an urban core you can’t get that same energy in areas where people are only willing to travel so far. [Density] gives us a better chance for success,” explained Hooper. “There is this dynamic with urban cores because people work, eat and play there. It’s not as easy to just pull up and park, but when you go out of your way to be there you get more choices. It’s going against what you experience when you travel down the road — where you pull off the highway and see the same handful

The Potent Potables Project received the Emerging Entrepreneur award at the 23rd Annual Entrepreneurial Awards on March 2.

Photo by Erika Hodges

of options. You start to get an appreciation for what’s in a neighborhood and that local flavor — things you can’t get at home” With the each of its brands being firmly focused on providing a well-rounded selection of both food

and beverages, it’s no wonder that each of these brainchildren maintains its uniqueness. Surely, with such bold brands and concepts, inspiration and the ability to keep each distinctive must be no easy feat. Each of the brands that fall under the Potent Potables umbrella is its own experience and the

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attention to detail in each is a driving factor that helps to define them as local staples. The group brings the unexpected to the table by digging deep into each location’s history.

“It can be difficult — Zoobies, our first opening, was convenience and circumstances. We already owned the building and we went in not knowing what to do,” recalled Matthews. “We thought, ‘how can we reopen it and make it new?’ The building had been a bar forever, since prohibition as a speakeasy, so there was a lot of history there.

We started peeling back tile and carpets, etc. — and found cool hardwood floor, several layers of wallpaper and more. So, we eventually said ‘hey, let’s keep as much of this history as possible and that’s kind of been an ethos which continues to play into what we’ve done since. It’s part of Old Town to pay homage to what’s happened before while still taking it to the next level.”

While a lot of things seemed to just fall into place, it isn’t to say that the success of the group was solely luck. Even with good fortune, hurdles do exist. Doing your homework is an essential part of ensuring that your passions and dreams are also viable business solutions. You never know

what it’s going to take exactly, but rolling with the punches and having a strong team on your side makes the load a little lighter.

a great time from an ownership standpoint. Us three work great as a team because we trust each other, because we have mastery over each given discipline and are constantly learning from one another. Everyone involved has the company’s best interest in mind. That idea and ethos trickles down to the operations team. We keep a pretty good eye on what’s happening in the business and reflect that ‘team oriented, not blame oriented’ attitude. We’re all racing to the same finish line.”

“We all knew the pitfalls and that it’d be capital intensive. Opening restaurants the right way and building a good reputation as people that work well with others is hard – we did it by our boot straps,” mentioned Short. “Realistically when we first opened Zoobies - we gave it our blood, sweat, tears and money. You don’t realize how much it’s going to take of you and it’s going to take everything. I know that when things get tough, Alan, Aaron and I will link together and push through it. I can’t think of a more important aspect than that.”

As the three partners continue to expand outward, their impact on the immediate area is still being felt. For many, seeing The Potent Potables Project take the podium came as no surprise – but to them, it’s an unexpected affirmation and symbol of their hard work.

“It was very surprising to be perfectly honest in a wonderful way,” said Short. “We like to think we do some great things internally – we have

CONGRATULATIONS to the Winners of the

2017

Entrepreneurial Awards!

As the group continues to hurl its brands toward the finish line, it’s obvious that in the years to come there will be many races to be had for these rising stars. When asked what advice they’d give to the next generation of entrepreneurs, they responded with smiles: “I don’t think I’d encourage anyone to be an entrepreneur. It’s a disease,” laughed Hooper.

“Of course we want to make money but to me, being an entrepreneur means seeing things that are lacking. We have a lot of people that we love here in Lansing and want to spend time with them, but there didn’t seem to be a great place to do that.

From our end, we saw something that was missing and thought; if not us, then who?”

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2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

BUILDING A VILLAGE

BY AMI ICEMAN-HAUETER

They say it takes a village to raise a child. DawnMarie Joseph believes this to be true, so true in fact she built the village herself. With eight businesses going strong, five kids, five grandkids and a strong entrepreneurial spirit, Joseph has been able to build successful companies that provide jobs, services and products to a community she loves.

After 20 years in the banking industry and five working alongside an attorney in the insurance industry, Joseph wanted a career with the flexibility to be with her family while pursuing her passions. She started what would be the first of many companies, Estate Planning & Preservation.

“It gave me the freedom to be with my kids,” Joseph said. “When I worked for other companies it was like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole.

I wanted to do things differently. I wanted to offer services people could use and help families.”

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But flexibility comes with a catch. Joseph found ways to have the flexible schedule she desired but still put in all the hours of work that were needed to grow a successful business.

“I had kids in school; so I’d get them off to school and go to work. I’d stop mid-afternoon to be at home with the family and then I would go back to work around nine and some nights I’d work till one in the morning. It made for a long day but also gave me the time I needed to get things done and still be with my kids,” Joseph said.

After years of building a strong company, she was ready for a new challenge. She and her husband, Paul, opened Gracie’s Place in Williamston. There they found new success in unmarked territory.

“When we opened Gracie’s Place it was a coffee place and we wanted to see if people wanted more;

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so we opened for dinner with a limited menu and there was a line out the door,” Joseph said. “We bought the building next door and expanded. It was my first endeavor outside of the insurance and financial industry and it was something I had never done before, but that was what made it exciting.”

By that time, Joseph’s entrepreneurial spirit had grown stronger and it wasn’t long before she added more thriving businesses to her portfolio.

Now owning and operating eight unique business in the Williamston area, she has found there is one underlying key to starting and maintaining a business and that is loving business itself.

“I think I have always had an interest in business and all of these businesses. The bottom line is understanding business. What that business does is the next piece of the puzzle,” Joseph said. “I don’t have a passion for just one thing and I can

2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

CLIENT Dawn-Marie Joseph of Estate Planning & Preservation, received the Entreprenurial Spirit award at the 23rd Annual Entrepreneurial Awards on March 2.

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see how many businesses can be successful and employ people; that is what I am passionate about.”

Joseph’s eight businesses include: Estate Planning & Preservation, The Wedding Gallery, Vivee’s Floral Garden, Blue Button Bakery, Joseph & Joseph Tax & Payroll, Joseph Financial Group and Tom Donnelly’s Barbell Club. Joseph also previously owned Gracie’s Place. Joseph’s array of diverse business is impressive and begs the question, where did all these wonderful ideas come from?

“I was really involved with our chamber and city council — ­ students from Northwestern, MSU and U of M would come and do research on the area.

They’d share their findings on what the town could support in terms of new businesses,” Joseph said. “It’s not easy to make a living when you’re not in a mega center or in the most convenient location, but when an opportunity would come up I would think back to these studies and look at the facts and figures and really look at if these businesses could be viable.”

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However, in Joseph’s opinion, viable and successful businesses can’t exist without a few key ingredients. If she had the chance to share advice with a new entrepreneur she would always tell them to be money wise and find the best employees possible.

“The first thing that makes a business work is great employees. Employees keep businesses alive. Our team makes what we do work,” Joseph said.

“That and to be money wise. You have to set aside time each week to work on your books and take care of your bottom-line. You have to remember even if you don’t get a pay check, they do.”

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It’s no wonder that with her eye on the prize and heart in the right place that Joseph has been able to build so many successful businesses; but she is quick to note that she didn’t do it alone.

“My family has been a huge part of this,” Joseph said. “They have always supported me. I am really blessed and lucky to do all these different things that I love. It’s also about giving other people an opportunity to do what they love.”

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3/7/17 10:06 AM

2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE ENTREPRENEUR

BABIES, BALANCE & BUSINESS

BY AMI ICEMAN-HAUETER

When Lynn Ross, owner of Mother & Earth Baby Boutique, lost her job in hospitality after 11 years, she knew she was ready for a change, but taking the leap to become an entrepreneur was a bigger change than she ever imagined.

“I lost my job when I was pregnant and we started cloth diapering to save some money. We discovered there was this whole other world out there we didn’t know about,” Ross said. “I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do with the next phase of my life. My husband suggested I start a cloth diaper store and it grew from there.

This was around the time that all of those toys were being tested for being unsafe or having high levels of lead, so I decided we would just cut all that out and just focus on American made and natural products.”

Her vision for the company came from her experience as a new mom and only grew as her

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family did. Now a proud mom of two sweet boys (Jared, 6 and Anthony, 3) the goal for her store is to take the stress off new moms and be a reliable resource for those in need.

“I had two kids and I realized, as a parent, we have so much to worry about these days — so I wanted to create a place where moms and families could come shop and know that they don’t have to worry about what they are buying here,” said Ross.

And while her vision for the shop was clear, the business side of owning her own store taught Ross that being resilient, smart and dedicated would be the key to keeping things running.

“Running the business side of things is a big job.

You have to make sure you’re making the right choices and bringing in the right products,” Ross said. “You want to be sustainable; to be around for your community.”

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The community has always been a priority for Ross. While her store offers American made, earth friendly, all natural products for purchase, she wanted the space to act as so much more.

Ross has a vision for creating a network of moms that can support each other. Through classes she hosts on-site and support she and her staff offer to new moms who just stop by, Ross wants the boutique to serve the community in a larger way.

“I love this community. I love my customer base. Being able to give a new mom a tip about breast feeding that she hasn’t heard could change everything for her. Helping a mom by answering questions about potty training, or anything really, makes us feel like we are in this for the right reasons. We absorb so much information from our customers and we are happy to support our community of moms by passing it on,” Ross said.

2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

The community in Old Town has also supported Ross. Since starting her company online in July 2011, to moving into her first storefront to settling into her space in Old Town, the growth of her business has always thrived because of the support.

forward to the things he could do or achieve. I think my siblings and I took a lot from that. We were always in awe of his attitude.”

“I knew what I wanted to do, and how quickly everything happened surprised me. But it happened so organically, it came together like it was supposed to be this way. I would say that the business end of things has really surprised me, but in a really great way,” said Ross.

“I get a lot of motivation from my team. We set goals and work together to do fun things for the community and for ourselves. We share success stories when we have team meetings; they can be personal or related to the store but it keeps us motivated to help our customers in the best way we can,” Ross said.

And when things may not come together as planned, Ross leans on the lessons learned from her dad to always move forward, stay positive and not let barriers get in your way.

Motivation comes in a variety of forms and Ross admits that it isn’t always easy to stay motivated when you’re the leader, but she offers a bit of advice to help those that want to tackle entrepreneurship for themselves.

“People think being your own boss will be amazing, and it can be, but it can also be really hard. When you don’t have someone telling you what direction to go in and goals you need to reach, it can be hard to stay motivated,” Ross said. “You have to be the goal setter and the goal achiever. If you go in knowing this, it will be easier to focus on the big picture.”

Photo by Erika Hodges

“My dad was my biggest supporter. He had multiple sclerosis and was in a wheelchair for most of my life. We had some very frustrating moments as a family when there were places we couldn’t go or things we couldn’t do because they weren’t barrier free,” Ross said.

“But he was the most determined person you could ever meet. For as many challenges as he was given in life he always stayed positive.

He never wallowed and was always looking

Ross channels this mindset by finding new and fun ways to keep herself and her team motivated.

Lynn Ross, owner of Mother & Earth Baby Boutique, received the Socially Responsible Entrepreneur award at the 23rd Annual Entrepreneurial Awards on March 2.

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WHAT IS IT ABOUT POPCORN THAT INSPIRED YOU? I got into the business when I lost my job in 2004. I lost my job on a Friday and I started writing a business plan on a Monday. Over the weekend, we went to Frankenmuth and I went to this popcorn shop and I was so inspired. I hated the way that it felt when I walked into my office and they said we are having a meeting at noon, and then told me don’t have a job at like 12:05.

I started writing my business plan in 2004 and I opened in 2007, so I had a massive business plan when I first started. But I got all my ducks in a row. I went to the Michigan Small Business Development Center; and the Internet is fantastic, so many resources there that show you how to make a business plan, what to look out for, and you can investigate other popcorn shops.

Chad Jordan, owner of Cravings Gourmet Popcorn

When I was at the Lansing City Market, there was a couple there, a husband and wife team, that made kettle corn and cheese corn. I became friends with them. They knew I wanted to get into the business. So, when they retired, they moved to Georgia and sold me all their stuff for $5,000. If they hadn’t done that, I wouldn’t be here today. Also, I had to have the support of my wife. She’s been there every step of the way. More than anything she encourages me to be the best that I can be.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR YOUR BUSINESS? I see this as a business that could be franchised.

I’m working every day to get to that point. We see a lot of businesses on a daily basis; when we see how big they are, we don’t realize the work it took to get from store one to a franchise. I’m still at point A but I’m trying to get it to multiply.

POPCORN SUCCESS IS AN ART Entrepreneurs are risk takers. They often set out to do things that others may not have the courage to do. Ten years ago, Cravings Gourmet Popcorn Owner, Chad Jordan, took a great risk when he got into the popcorn business, and it has paid off.

I recently sat down with Jordan, the 2012 Emerging Entrepreneur Award winner, to discuss his journey from the local farmers market to becoming mid-Michigan’s source for premium gourmet popcorn.

BY KRISTINE RICHMOND | PHOTO BY ERIKA HODGES 32

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Last April we opened a new production facility on the south side of town. We make popcorn five days a week. We make the hot stuff, the higher volume type of orders, like all the caramel corn and the premium signature gold, out of our production facility. Then we also supplement what we sell at Quality Dairy, and through our fundraiser program, and our new account at the airport. We are using it to try to build a more wholesale type business. We would love to be able to help other popcorn shops that want to get into the business but don’t have the equipment, we could wholesale that for them.

WHAT DO YOU THINK SETS YOUR BUSINESS APART FROM YOUR COMPETITORS? You can go to 100 popcorn shops and 99 of them are going to be the same. Because within the industry anyone can make popcorn and anyone can buy pre-made ingredients or kits, that’s what most of the industry does, it’s all

2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

the same stuff. What makes us different is that we create our own recipes to create the flavors that we have. So, whereas a popcorn joint might have nacho flavored popcorn, they are going to buy a kit that’s nacho flavor. We’re going to buy garlic, onion, sea salt, and so on; until we have the proper mixture to call it nacho. That’s the difference.

TELL ME A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY. Entrepreneurship makes you stronger or it makes you quit. If you can handle it, it gets real deep sometimes. As a good friend told me, ‘you have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable.’ It’s not always easy, but it’s important to ride out the easy times with the hard times. Don’t celebrate your wins too hard and don’t dwell on your losses too hard. You’re going to have winning days and you’re going to have losing days. Just take them.

As for myself, it’s made me a stronger person, in the sense that I’ve learned how to dig deeper in knowing what my strengths and weaknesses are and my own abilities. A perfect example is, I didn’t have investors in this business, or inherited money. If I wanted to get something designed, I had to learn how to do that. Learning how to make the flavors, for example. If you try, you

are going to fail, but if you try and learn from your errors, eventually you’ll catch on; then you can develop a system for how you make or do whatever you are trying to do. I can come up with stuff in the first or second try now, it’s just crazy.

HOW WAS WINNING THE EMERGING ENTREPRENEUR AWARD IN 2012 SIGNIFICANT FOR YOU? The biggest thing that winning the award did was validate my idea. Because you know I started this business at the Lansing City Market and then moved into Old Town. That doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s a good idea. But winning validated that other people thought it was.

One of the cool things that happened after I won is that I instantly became recognized as an expert.

Everybody thinks you are such a great business person. I think I get incrementally better as time goes on, but I wouldn’t say that I’m a great business person. I don’t think I do anything that anyone else couldn’t do. I think that most people have it in them. If they really thought about it, they could run their own business, whether it’s selling purses, making popcorn, running a restaurant or selling jewelry, whatever it may be. I was just having a conversation in the office today, they asked, ‘why don’t you watch more

TV?’ I said that every minute I’m watching the Kardashians I’m helping them make millions of dollars. Every minute I’m watching a YouTube instructional video on how to do something in my business, it goes toward me making money.

What am I going to do, help them or help myself? It’s a no brainer.

HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE SUCCESS? I define success by the time I have to be able to spend with my family. Being in business gives me the opportunity to do those sorts of things.

If I were at a 9 to 5 behind the desk, I wouldn’t be able to see my son’s football practices or hire my son to be in the business and be with him all the time. Or, I wouldn’t be able to respond when my wife calls when she says the dryer broke. I have more flexibility, I work more hours than the typical 9 to 5’er, but when I need to leave, I leave. I went to every one of my son’s track meets, that’s priceless.

Kristine Richmond is the Public Relations Specialist at M3 Group.

She specializes in helping clients tell their stories of changed lives, fiscal success, philanthropic support and more by creating engaging messages that grab customers’ attention and cause them to act.

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Three Men and a Tenor

Dewpoint team, recipient of the Lansing Business of the Year award

Bob Hoffman, Public Relations Manager of Wharton Center Craig Dubitsky, founder and CEO of Hello Products 36

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GREATER LANSING

ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS

Samuel Short of The Potent Potables Project, recipient of the Emerging Entrepreneur award

Businesses come in all shapes and sizes, with unique missions and selling propositions. The one thing every business has in common is their undeniable position as the lifeblood of local economy. Whether it’s a car dealership, an engineering firm, a bakery or anything in between; their work begins with an idea, passion and willingness to take a risk.

Companies in the greater Lansing region have the amazing spirit and determination to make a big impact. These characteristics hold true among the winners of the 2017 Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Award Dinner.

Photos by Erika Hodges

April Clobes, CEO of MSUFCU

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Christine Zarkovich & Mandy Emert

Dave & Sherry Campbell Stacie Newman

Susan Hengesbach

Dedicated People, Professional Solutions Congratulations to the 2017 Entrepreneurial Award Winners Bell Title Company is a full service Title Insurance Agency, offering title insurance and real estate settlement services throughout the state of Michigan.

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2339 Jolly Rd. Okemos, MI 48864 Ph: (517) 381-5353 ǀ Fx: (517) 381-5354

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2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

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Visit www.michamber.com/young-entrepreneurs for opportunities to get involved or contact Anita Lindsay at (517) 371-7671 or by email at alindsay@michamber.com.

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2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

Auto-Owners Insurance:

A COMMITMENT TO OUTSTANDING SERVICE SINCE 1957

BY ANDY FLANAGAN

To be in business for any length of time requires some good fortune, but as the old saying goes, “Luck is the residue of design.”

date back to the company’s formative days by our founder, Vern Moulton. At the heart of our mission is the commitment to serve our policyholders.

in 1957. “Our existence is for no other reason than to deal with the public – our policyholders – promptly and equitably.”

Auto-Owners Insurance has been in business for nearly 101 years, and the reasons for our success

“Auto-Owners was founded and still operates on the principle of fast, fair service,” wrote Moulton

To provide the service we believe our policyholders need and deserve, Auto-Owners

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2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

has relied exclusively on independent agents to market and sell our products. These are the people you know, and they know you. They are business owners in your local communities who provide much value through their knowledge, advice, service and a variety of companies they represent.

Providing your customers with the best product.

Sure, price is important; you have to be in the ballpark to play. However, customers want to know they are taken care of. They want peace of mind and security. How does one put a price tag on this?

That’s what makes them a good fit to solve your insurance needs. Much like you, they too are entrepreneurs and know that it takes and the types of risks you need to protect in today’s business climate.

Nobody does it better than the independent agent.

They provide the best business support with some of the best and strongest insurance carriers in the industry. It’s easy to get too wrapped up on price and not focus on overall quality, comfort and peace of mind. All business owners need to sell themselves and their overall value, not just price!

There are many common threads besides insurance that have bound Auto-Owners and its independent agents all these years. Here are some of them: Building strong relationships. As retired AutoOwners Chairman & CEO Roger Looyenga often says, “People do business with people they know, like, trust and respect.”

Being the go-to insurance/risk management adviser in your community. A true insurance agent treats the job as a profession. A profession has all the same attributes of a job, but also includes extended training and formal qualifications like knowledge, skills and abilities that develop over time.

Each agency has a reputation and is building a legacy within their respective community. Many in the community know it. In this business, much of the new business comes from the referrals given — generated by each agency’s legacy and reputation.

It takes effort to be a professional, but the rewards far outweigh the energy it takes to expand our knowledge, skills and abilities. There is nothing like a customer telling you after a claim that they are glad they bought the insurance coverage they were advised.

Like Auto-Owners, most businesses are built upon the legacy of service and how well they take care of their clients. Do you provide a full range of services? Do you handle all of your customers’ needs?

Are you involved in your community and business associations? Do you meet with your customers regularly? Do you interact on a regular basis with your customers?

These are traits that are the glue that binds us all together as successful businesses. If you answered “yes” to the questions in the preceding paragraph — or the bulleted items listed before — congratulations! Your business is likely thriving.

Auto-Owners Insurance has succeeded since 1916 because we and the independent agents who represent us, continue to focus on our main mission: providing outstanding service to our customers. This is the foundation of every successful business.

Andy Flanagan is an administrator in corporate communications at Auto-Owners Insurance, where he has worked the past 15 years. Prior to joining Auto-Owners he spent 20 years in the newspaper industry.

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A JUDGES PERSPECTIVE The Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Award judges are a critical part of making each year’s event a success. Together they spend hours reviewing nominee submissions and pouring over information to pinpoint entrepreneurs that are positivity impacting the community. Narrowing down the field to just five winners is never an easy task. Bruce Dunn of Maner Costerisan, shares his perspective on this year’s honorees, past winners and what makes this event, and the community that supports it, so unique.

HOW DOES YOU COMPANY SUPPORT LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS? Maner Costerisan has a special department that works exclusively with startup and established entrepreneurs.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR ENTREPRENEURS? Work with a CPA and attorney early on to develop a business plan. Don’t’ give up on your dream, it is not always easy.

WHY IS LANSING SUCH A GREAT PLACE FOR ENTREPRENEURS? Great employees, great business environment and wonderful support for startup entities.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE NOMINEES AND PAST WINNERS OF THE ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS? The past award winners are the best of the best our area has seen. The current winners are another exceptional group of winners. Time will tell about our emerging winners the past few years, but I am excited to see where they are in the future.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR FUTURE NOMINEES? If you have a great story we want to hear about it. As a rule of thumb start thinking

Bruce Dunn of Maner Costerisan

about submitting once sales have exceeded $100,000 for a couple or more years. Spend time addressing all areas of the application.

WHERE BUSINESS AND ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERS ARE MADE

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Visit our website for a complete list of programs!

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GLBM would like to extend a special thank you to this year’s judging panel for their hard work and dedication to this event and the greater Lansing community.

Nominations for the 2018 Great Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards are already open and any local entrepreneur can be nominated. Submit your nomination today at GLBMAwards.com

Lansing Energy Tomorrow is the BWL’s major electric modernization program to replace and upgrade aging infrastructure with clean, efficient, and reliable generation and transmission assets.

Lansing Energy Tomorrow is vitally important because it will guide how the BWL will meet the region’s electric energy needs well into the future. lansingenergytomorrow.com

2017 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS SPECIAL SECTION

THREE MEN and a TENOR CELEBRATES 25 YEARS IN 2017!

In 2017, THREE MEN and a TENOR (3MT) is celebrating it's 25th anniversary yeara milestone in any business, but especially in the music business. Paul Felch, Chuck Colby, Mark Stiles, and Glenn Williams began as a group in 1992 at Michigan State University planning to sing one song in a glee club concert, and 25 years later they are still together. Now, with over 3,000 performances, a national PBS-TV special, opening act spots with Jay Leno and The Beach Boys, and 2 performance tours of Germany to sing for our US Military families, these guys have accomplished more with just their four voices than any of them could have imagined.

The THREE MEN and a TENOR Show is a high-energy performance with music from a diverse songbook, featuring original 3MT songs and cover songs from The Temptations, The Doobie Brothers, The Eagles, Alabama, The Zac Brown Band, James Taylor, Nat King Cole, the Mills Brothers, Eric Clapton and Led Zeppelin all wrapped up into an amazing show of American standards and pop music that will move you, rock you and even touch your heart.

3MT has won the "Best Entertainment in Michigan" award 3 times by the readers of the Michigan Meetings and Events Magazine (2016, 2011, and 2006); and voted "Entrepreneurs of the Year" in 2000 by the Greater Lansing Business Monthly. "The Three Men and a Tenor Show" is perfect for performing arts centers, festivals, corporate conventions/conferences, casinos and cruise ships.

For bookings, merchandise or group information: www.threemenandatenor.com.

Get Social with 3MT: www.threemenandatenor.com L

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ENTREPRENEURISM

AS A FIELD OF STUDY Formalized training helps entrepreneurs sharpen skills, minimize risk

BY MICKEY HIRTEN

What does it take to be an entrepreneur? “A passionate determination to win,” says Todd Terry, who trains entrepreneurs at Davenport University.

“A lot of people think you have to be tremendously innovative or creative. What entrepreneurs have to do is overcome their fears; to come to the conclusion that they will take a risk.

It comes down to an attitude.”

But Terry, the associate chairman in Davenport’s main college of business, adds that there is no common starting point for entrepreneurs and that success requires solid business practices reflected in the training and course work. Along these lines, the university offers just that to its traditional and non-traditional students.

He explained that the risk of failure is inherent in any business venture, but that successful entrepreneurs learn from their failures. And increasingly, universities, business trade groups and the government have developed programs 44

to minimize risk, helping entrepreneurs with tools and training to test their proposals, fashion plans and navigate the many hurdles facing new business ventures.

The Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM) offers a number of programs designed to help entrepreneurial ventures.

Among them are SBAM Marketplace, which allows entrepreneurs to buy products and services from other SBAM members; member discounts on employee benefits and insurance, HR and compliance services, tools for managing technology, legal advice, accounting and finance products, sales, marketing tools and office supplies. SBAM also provides a wide range of audio and video informational programs that foster entrepreneurial peer learning.

Michigan State University (MSU) has incorporated entrepreneur-based courses and specialties into its academic programs. Its

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approach integrates innovation, technology transfer, support for startups and partnerships with businesses, communities and entrepreneurs.

Last summer, MSU alumnus Robert Burgess donated $4.5 million to the school’s Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, affiliated with the Eli Broad College of Business. Its mission, as outlined by the university, is research on entrepreneurship, venture capital and private equity. It promotes knowledge-sharing networks with business stakeholders and seeks to stimulate economic development in Michigan. Supporting entrepreneurs also aligns with MSU’s goal of commercializing the intellectual property of its faculty and researchers.

The Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation is one of many MSU programs that promotes innovation. Its academic offerings include an entrepreneurship graduate and undergraduate concentration and specialization as well as the Gerstacker Entrepreneurship Program, which offers

FEATURE

students concentrating on science, technology, engineering and mathematics the potential funding for research projects with entrepreneurial potential.

Lansing Community College (LCC) also promotes entrepreneurial initiatives. The college cites entrepreneurship as an important element in the region’s economic development and bundles

its programs with broad offerings to small businesses throughout the region.

as well as courses on the practical aspects of business management.

It offers one-on-one training for emerging entrepreneurs; allowing them to explore various business ideas and options. Academically, it offers for-credit classes, to facilitate exploration of opportunities and challenges for entrepreneurs,

The college believes that these programs reflect its commitment to regional economic development, with a particular emphasis on aspiring business owners and students, whom LCC President Brent Knight calls “the entrepreneurs of tomorrow.”

The Small Business Association provides extensive resources to help entrepreneurs sharpen and execute their plans. But it cautions that becoming a successful entrepreneur requires thorough planning, creativity and hard work. It suggests that those considering startup businesses should determine whether they have characteristics and skills commonly associated with successful entrepreneurs. Its self-assessment asks to assess whether they are:

COMFORTABLE WITH TAKING RISKS Being your own boss also means you’re the one making the tough decisions. Entrepreneurship involves uncertainty. Do you avoid uncertainty in life at all costs? If yes, then entrepreneurship may not be the best fit for you. Do you enjoy the thrill of taking calculated risks?

CREATIVE Are you able to think of new ideas? Can you imagine new ways to solve problems?

Entrepreneurs must be able to think creatively. If you have insights on how to take advantage of new opportunities, entrepreneurship may be a good fit.

INDEPENDENT

ABLE TO NEGOTIATE

Entrepreneurs have to make a lot of decisions on their own. If you find you can trust your instincts — and you’re not afraid of rejection every now and then — you could be on your way to being an entrepreneur.

As a small business owner, you will need to negotiate everything from leases to contract terms to rates.

Polished negotiation skills will help you save money and keep your business running smoothly.

SUPPORTED BY OTHERS

PERSUASIVE You may have the greatest idea in the world, but if you cannot persuade customers, employees and potential lenders or partners, you may find entrepreneurship to be challenging. If you enjoy public speaking, engage new people with ease and find that you make compelling arguments grounded in facts, it’s likely you’re poised to make your idea succeed.

Before you start a business, it’s important to have a strong support system in place. You’ll be forced to make many important decisions, especially in the first months of opening your business. If you do not have a support network, consider finding a business mentor.

A business mentor is someone who is experienced, successful and willing to provide advice and guidance.

The site offers another 20 questions to guide entrepreneurs. They deal with potential customers, time and money, competition, management, advertising and more. Details and other helpful information is available at sba.gov//offices/headquarters/oed.

We’re here to assist you with all of your financial needs.

You need a strong partner with a long-time presence in the local community who can provide the financial products and services designed to help your finances prosper and grow.

www.casecu.org

517.393.7710

Federally Insured

by NCUA

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FEAST, FAMINE & FRANCHISES

BY SARAH SPOHN

When the word ‘entrepreneur’ is spoken, many often think of new ideas, innovation and contrast ways of thinking in the business world. While new inventions can be a form of entrepreneurism, so too can the idea of using an already recognized business model and proven brand.

Franchises are an important aspect of many businesses as they create standards across the board, allow for various convenient locations and uphold the company’s mission and relevant brand.

THOMAS PARKS

President, CEO and principal consultant for Premier Franchise Solutions

Thomas Parks, president, CEO and principal consultant for Premier Franchise Solutions spoke about his experience in the industry, most recently when his Lansingbased company launched in 2015.

After working with TWO MEN & A TRUCK, Parks felt he had learned from the best, but also felt he could support in other ways. Parks found a hole in the industry he felt he could remedy: finding a way to guide young and emerging business brands and give them a voice in the market. He sought to help fix the dilemma, working in franchise development firms.

Two years ago, Premier Franchise Solutions launched in Lansing, They specialize in helping start-up and emerging brands grow their franchise.

Their mission is two-fold, according to Parks.

“We help companies that want to become a franchise, get them matched with the proper franchise attorneys, make sure there’s a competitive analysis done and make sure they’re ready to enter the franchise world,” Parks said.

Once they registered and recognized as a franchisor, then Premier Franchise Solutions acts as their sales, marketing and advertising department to further develop the brand.

46

The second aspect of what Parks and his team do is brand matchmaking. They focus on getting to know their clients, their wants, needs, experiences, budgets and background knowledge of various business ventures.

After they’ve established a better idea of what is feasible and desired on behalf of their clients, they can then connect them with industry professionals to develop a relationship or partnership.

Making the transition from “mom and pop” shop to a franchise is scary for some business owners, but the pros speak for themselves, according to Parks.

“The biggest thing — and it’s almost cliché, is that franchising allows you to be in business for yourself, not by yourself,” he said. By working together, franchisors and franchisees help and guide each other, a relationship in which both outlets benefit, contrary to some misconceptions.

While start-ups often have room for creativity and fine-tuning, this often leaves room for failure, something franchises have to deal with less.

“The biggest misconception that I run across is when people are buying into a franchise is that it’s all about the franchisor making money,” Parks said. “When in reality, the thing I always laugh about is when you pay a franchise fee, you’re not paying for all the wonderful success they’ve had. In reality, you’re paying for all the mistakes they’ve made along the way; all the ways they learned to not make money. You have that support system, where they’re like ‘we have done that, it didn’t work, don’t waste your time.’”

The other big benefit of franchising is the brand recognition. Think about some of the marketing that is most prevalent: big restaurant brands

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like Dominos, Little Caesars, or even BIGGBY COFFEE. All franchises, and all those who started in the state of Michigan.

Other non-Michigan brands have seen their fair share of success within the state as well. Irvine, California-based pizza concept, Blaze Pizza, has seven locations in Michigan: Lansing, Kalamazoo, Allen Park, Royal Oak, Novi, two in Ann Arbor, and one opening in East Lansing this spring.

The restaurant focuses on chef-driven recipes and utilizes an assembly line creation station with fresh, varied ingredients for customers to handpick for their own culinary creations.

According to Darla Bowen, director of marketing for Blaze Midwest Inc., “Blaze is now ranked as the leading fast-casual pizza chain in the Technomic Top 500 Chain Restaurant Report.

Blaze Pizza is building momentum and developing a cult following as it expands across the country. It was also recently ranked second on FastCasual.com’s list of “Top 100 Movers and Shakers” in the country, behind Panera Bread.”

The industry of franchising comes with a surprisingly small, close-knit community of professionals. His favorite part about his job is the grand openings of franchises he’s helped with.

“I try to be at their grand openings as much as possible,” Parks said. “If I can be there in person, and see the look on their face when they turn the key in the lock for the first day of business, that is everything to me.”

Much like the franchising community itself, Lansing is part of a supportive unit of businesses.

A support system that entrepreneurs, franchisors, franchisees and business owners appreciate within the local area.

“There are pockets where the business community bands together and really help elevate each other,” Parks said. “Anything that we can do for each other’s businesses, we will do. And I don’t think that’s a Midwestern thing, I don’t think that’s a Michigan thing, I think that’s a Lansing thing.”

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next phase of my life. I started my foundation and had a family friend, a cousin’s friend who had just finished law school, who was able to create the setup for my foundation and helped me structure it. I had Mandy Jones, she was a teammate, and she was with media at MSU. She helped me build out the fashions that I wanted to do.

SO WHERE DID YOU TAKE THIS FOUNDATION IDEA? I’ve had six family members who have passed away from cancer. That gave me the impetus to having a foundation to raise money for cancer. At the time my uncle was a survivor of brain cancer and I kind of landed on that.

I was learning about Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior and planning a fashion show over here – building a strong foundation to build my foundation as well as my business.

BUT A BOLD VENTURE. HOW DID YOU DEAL WITH THE RISK, THE POSSIBILITY OF FAILURE? I will tell you that I started having meetings with Paula Cunningham and Kelly Rossman and others. I asked how you do this, how you get started. I guess you could say that I didn’t calculate failure. Coming from the basketball world you are continually winning and failing.

As an athlete, you don’t train to lose. I knew that you could build a team that set me up to win.

But also, I know that you can learn just as much from losing as you can from winning. You can recalibrate, change around and do better.

BY MICKEY HIRTEN | PHOTO BY ERIKA HODGES

LAUREN AITCH Lady Aitch Design clothing founder

Lauren Aitch, 30, established the foundation that bears her name and developed the Lady Aitch Design clothing label and others, all based in Lansing’s fashion incubator: The Runway. Aitch’s foundation supports cancer research at Michigan State University (MSU). Her clothing lines blend designer fashion with specialty garments – highperformance fitted undershirts for men and women. She started both ventures after a basketball career at MSU and overseas.

HOW ABOUT A QUICK OVERVIEW OF THE AITCH FOUNDATION? I was overseas playing basketball and had a lot of time on my hands. I had gotten my 48

masters in public relations and essentially what happened was I started my foundation. I call my year overseas, my year alone with God. I really found my faith and through that I was able to find out what I wanted to do with the

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WHAT ABOUT A SUPPORT STRUCTURE. MENTORS ARE IMPORTANT TO START-UP BUSINESS SUCCESS. WHO HELPED YOU? I have a lot of mentors who I lean on for a lot of things. I would say that everyone on my foundation board is a mentor. Every time we come together as a board, I’m telling them how we are doing and I’m asking them questions.

I’m not a person who is big on wasting people’s time because I don’t like my time wasted.

When we come to these meetings I ask them questions and ask what are their thoughts. I don’t ask for their input and not use it. And not just the foundation. I will pick up the phone and call them if I have a business question.

IS THERE AN OVERRIDING THEME TO ALL OF THIS? My business and foundation are all about relationships – the relationships that you create, the relationships that you cultivate, the relationships that you keep. Lansing is a small big town. You always have to be conscientious

BEHIND THE SCENES

about relationships and how you treat people, how you carry yourself with integrity and honesty in all that you do.

I think that’s what allowed me to be successful.

I’m not saying I do everything right, but there are areas where I feel I’ve been successful.

We’ve been able to achieve things that I really couldn’t even imagine.

HOW DO YOU MEASURE YOUR SUCCESS? First and foremost I measure success if I am following what God is telling me to do.

day of work, entrepreneurship is not for you.

You have to able to let go of some things.

DOESN’T YOUR SPORTS BACKGROUND GIVE YOU AN INTUITIVE UNDERSTANDING THAT IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT YOU? Yes. And to not be afraid to change when it is time to make a change. There was a scenario where there was a change-out in accounting that I had to have. I changed my logo. You can’t be afraid to pivot.

I WAS THINKING A LITTLE MORE ABOUT MONEY, THINGS LIKE BALANCE SHEETS, INCOME STATEMENTS.

THERE IS SO MUCH THAT IS REQUIRED OF ENTREPRENEURS, BUT IT SEEMS THAT UNDERSTANDING AND SERVING YOUR CUSTOMERS AND COST CONTROL ARE AMONG THE MOST IMPORTANT.

I’ll get to that. But that’s the first thing, following God’s plan. Our mission for the foundation is to fund fellowships, for people who have a passion for expanding cancer research and have the intellect to do it. The mission and our purpose in the foundation is to put money into a place where our researchers can potentially save lives.

Absolutely. A lot of times where people come into a company or a brand they say I’m going to create what I like without doing market research or asking who is my demographic.

Who am I making this for? You have to get out of the “I syndrome.”

We went from two years of funding one fellowship, meaning we were giving $15,000 to the university and they were matching it, so that was a $30,000 fellowship. Last year we funded four because we brought in local partners to fund fellowships as well. We gave $60,000 this past year and MSU matched it. I believe that was a success.

THAT’S PRETTY NICE GROWTH. I started the foundation in 2011 and now it’s 2017. In the five years we have been able to give a substantial amount of money to the university to focus in on our purpose.

YOUR FOUNDATION IS APPROACHING ITS FIVE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY. HOW IS IT DIFFERENT SUSTAINING A BUSINESS FROM STARTING ONE? In a start-up you are wearing many hats. To sustain, you have to find the relationships that are necessary to succeed. As an entrepreneur in your first, second or third year you have to decide what you are going to do and what others are going to do for you. Sometimes people don’t want to let go of anything. I created a curriculum to allow students not to trip up on things that I tripped up on. I put everything in there that I didn’t know about, things about lawyers and accountants. How do you do a business plan?

Are you wired correctly to be an entrepreneur?

If you can’t handle failures or can’t handle a hard

I continually step back and look. “Am I fulfilling the purpose of my company.” The purpose of my company is to make other people’s jobs easier. Wearable technology that makes whatever they are doing smoother and easier for them. And if I’m continually focused on that purpose, I am going to make products that are going to benefit the end users because they act as a solution to their problems.

FOR EXAMPLE? The undershirt we create absorbs sweat and the bacteria that comes from sweat. There are area situations and arenas where people have issues with sweat. Police officers. They wear ballistic vests that can be very uncomfortable when it’s directly on your skin or a baggy undergarment.

That discomfort hinders what you are doing.

It’s a big piece in the longevity of their day.

You have restaurant workers or firefighters. The same. We work on things that benefit health.

It’s what we’ve built our business on.

This conversation with Lauren Aitch has been edited for space and clarity.

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VISUAL BREAKDOWN

ENTREPRENEURSHIP TODAY’S SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEURS STAY AHEAD OF THE CURVE As always, your new business venture is a gamble… but many are thriving

CLOSED

for B U S I N E S S ONLY

45%

OF NEW BUSINESSES SURVIVE THEIR FIRST FIVE YEARS OF OPERATION

THE RATE OF STARTUP GROWTH WAS

58.5%

1,100

companies out of every 100,000 firms 10 years and younger started small and reached a scale of more than

50 EMPLOYEES

MEANING

newer companies contributed approximately

200,000

more jobs to the economy than in the previous year.

Certain industries hold more promise than others for new ventures…

Fastest growing fields for new businesses over the past five years

IT SERVICES

50

HEALTH

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SOFTWARE

ADVERTISING & MARKETING

VISUAL BREAKDOWN

There are some new players expected to create even more enticing opportunities‌

AUDIO

SHARING ECONOMY

CUISINE

New companies continue to emerge as technological advances are constantly being made in the market of wireless headphone technology, portable speaker systems and more.

The industry reached the $13 billion mark in 2016.

Corporations like Uber, Lyft and Airbnb have paved the way for even more new forms of community driven experiences.

Door to table services, such as Blue Apron and Hello Fresh took off in 2016.

Similar options in the form of home baking, brewing and other concepts are expected to push this industry in the years to come.

The emergence of new competition and advancements has led to more opportunities for individual growth among its participants.

Some areas are better for young entrepreneurs looking to get their foot in the door ‌

Top 3 best cities to start your new business *Cost of living index: measures the relative cost of living over time or regions

NO. 1

Tulsa OKLAH

COST OF LI

VING IND

y Tampa Ba

NO. 2

FLORID

Atlanta

NO. 3

A

OMA

GEORGIA

EX 88.3

COST OF

Raleigh

NO. 4

NORTH CAROLINA

COST OF LIVING INDEX 90.9

DEX 92 LIVING IN

.2

COST OF LI

VING INDEX

95

NO. 5

Oklahoma C OKLAHO

COST OF LI

VING INDEX

ity

MA

90.5

Compiled by Adam Lansdell | Graphics by Nikki Nicolaou Sources: Fast Company (www.fastcompany.com/3060037/the-future-of-work/this-is-the-state-of-entrepreneurship-in-2016); Forbes: Best Cities for Young Entrepreneurs & Fastest Growing Entrepreneurial Industries; Fortune: Emerging Markets for Entreprenuers (www.entrepreneur.com/slideshow/269905) L

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BACK TO BUDGETARY DEFICITS

BY MORDECHAI E. KREININ, UNIVERSITY DISTINGUISHED PROFESSOR (EMERITUS), MSU

Readers of this column might have noticed that, generally speaking, it attempts to explain what economics is all about without dealing with current events. At this point we have entered the field of microeconomics and it was my intention to devote the next three columns to “supply and demand” that deal with a single product. But the economic plan of the new president induces me to deviate from that plan and devote a short column to budgetary deficits before returning to microeconomics.

While the issue of the budgetary deficit was relegated to second or even third level importance during the great recession of 2008-2010, when sources were underutilized, it assumes great importance during the

prosperous years 2016- (hopefully) 2017 where resources are nearly fully employed and government spending must replace or displace private investments.

In considering deficits and the national debt what is important is: 1. The proportion of the deficit and the national debt to the country’s GDP. 2. Whether the deficit and consequently the national debt are denominated in the country’s currency or another currency.

Thus the U.S. deficits are denominated in U.S. dollars and Greek deficits and the national debt are denominated in Euros, which are not a Greek currency.

The budgetary deficit during the great recession of 2008-2010 (of a trillion dollars), along with expansionary monetary policy, were very helpful in getting the U.S. out of the great recession and avoiding a great depression. Europe, which at the time avoided such a policy, still has unemployment exceeding 10 percent compared to 4.7 percent in the U.S. In other words, the deficits at the time were salutary and certainly could be ignored. This is not the situation today.

U.S. unemployment today is down to the 4-7 percent range, and wage rates, stagnant for a long period, began to rise. Both features suggest a rather tight (or tightening) labor market, and relatively prosperous economic conditions. Against these conditions the

ARE YOU AT RISK?

BY SARAH JENNINGS, CPA, CAE, CFE

While all of us intend to hire only the most ethical employees with the highest integrity, the average annual loss to theft is 5 percent of gross revenue. The most recent study done by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners revealed over $6.3 billion dollars in losses within the 2,400 cases studied.

Any organization with limited staff and limited time hears the words “internal controls” and automatically thinks they don’t apply or feels they just have to accept the risks because of the limited staff size.

Leadership teams need to be skeptical and diligent in fraud prevention. The challenge comes when the additional controls are needed, but the costs and resources to implement appear to be prohibitive.

The most effective way to prevent or minimize loss to your organization is by assessing where the vulnerabilities are and putting procedures in place to defend against them.

Maner Costerisan offers a unique approach to risk assessment services. We incorporate our collaborative experience with financial and technology solutions to ensure that the recommendations made are cost-effective and streamlined for your organization’s size and structure.

Many organizations respond to suggestions for increased controls with comments such as: “We just don’t have enough people or resources to do triple checks” or “Employee X has worked here for years, I have no concerns” or “It’s my business, I would know if anything were amiss.”

Based on fraud statistics, most fraudsters have not been previously convicted of a fraud-related offense, and approximately half are trusted employees who have been with the organization more than 5 years.

Teaming up with Maner Costerisan advisors will leave your organization with an action plan to increase controls and efficiency, and a greater sense of comfort for the financial sustainability of your organization.

Sarah Jennings, CPA, CAE, CFE sjennings@manercpa.com www.manercpa.com | 517.886.9502

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ECONOMY

current administration’s proposals include the following: 1. Substantial cuts in corporate taxes and individual income tax.

2. An infrastructure spending program of considerable proportion.

3. A considerable increase in military expenditures.

Depending upon the perspective of each reader and observer, each of the above actions may be necessary. But they all have one thing in common: they reduce government revenue and/or increase spending. Combined they increase the budgetary deficit, even after allowing for the growth in the economy that might result. And over time they would increase the national debt by trillions. But unlike nine to 10 years ago, this new deficit is super-imposed upon a fully employed economy.

While in the earlier episode the deficits allowed the economy to expand at a constant price level, now they can only produce inflation. That would induce the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates with the usual ramifications for financial markets.

An historical parallel to this situation can be found in the Kennedy-Johnson administrations. President

Kennedy inherited a stagnant economy and used fiscal policy, including a tax cut, to stimulate the economy. This was the first time that Keynesian measures were employed. The economy was propelled forward without inflation and approached full employment by the time President Johnson took over. President Johnson decided to add many billions to military expenditures to prosecute the Vietnam War without raising taxes (presumably he feared that a tax increase would make the war unpopular early on). Such spending, super-imposed upon a fully employed economy, did nothing but produce inflation.

Now to the comparison between 2008-2010 (in the midst of the great recession) and today leads us to general principles about budgetary deficits.

2008-2010: With national debt hovering at around 90 percent of GDP and national debt in the U.S. much smaller than in the immediate post-war period, as well as smaller than in contemporary time in Japan and a few European countries, there is room for the deficits to grow. Its size can be relegated to a secondary importance, depending strictly upon the needs of the economy. If the economy is in or near a recession it requires the impetus of policy. Fiscal and monetary policy

In Greater Lansing, tourism can mean anything from meetings and conventions, sports tournaments, parents visiting children at MSU or a weekend getaway. A critical benefit of a healthy flow of traffic to the Greater Lansing region is the money tourists inject into the local community—$602 million each year in economic impact!

JOBS JOBS Over 11,000 Greater Lansing area residents work to support visitors to the region.

should be expansionary regardless of the deficit.

This is particularly so if the tools of monetary policy are exhausted (as is the situation today with interest rates near zero) and the only “kid on the block” is fiscal policy. Had we been in a recession today, fiscal expansion would have been appropriate regardless of the deficit.

2015-2017 is a period of full employment. A large budgetary deficit would lead to inflation and its known consequences, and the size of the deficit should be of paramount concern.

While the economy certainly needs large infrastructure spending, the best time to structure and restructure is during a recession and unemployment when government borrowing is easy and cheap. The same applies to construction needs of non-federal public institutions.

Mordechai Kreinin is a University Distinguished Professor of Economics, emeritus at Michigan State University and past President of the International Trade and Finance Association.

He is the author of about 200 articles and books about economics, including the widely used text, International Economics. He can be reached at kreinin@msu.edu or by cell phone at (517) 488-4837.

Do the math and it’s easy to see— Tourism Counts in Greater Lansing!

4.8 Million Annual Visitors $602 Million in Economic Impact 11,000 Local Jobs

TOURISM COUNTS! Learn more at www.lansing.org

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LANSING AT A GLANCE

GREATER LANSING AT A GLANCE Each month, Greater Lansing Business Monthly compiles statistics showing the growth of the greater Lansing area month to month. This information is not comprehensive, but rather, a snapshot of the area’s growth throughout the year. The following is a look at the advances some of Lansing’s biggest businesses have made in the past two months.

MICHIGAN RETAILERS ASSN. INDEX

BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS: LABOR FORCE DATA

A monthly gauge of key retail activity in the state; values above 50 generally indicate an increase in activity.

The regular report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics tracking the region's job performance.

Jan. ‘17

Dec. ‘16

Nov. ‘16

Oct. ‘16

Jan. '16

Jan. ‘17

Dec. ‘16

Nov. ‘16

Oct. ‘16

Jan. '16

Sales

40.5

52

55.7

49.8

47.1

(p)245.4

250.5

248.1

245.7

59.2

47.5

55.7

44.7

53.5

Civilian Labor Force (1)

n.a.

Inventory Prices

53.3

49.5

51.3

50.6

46.7

Employment (1)

n.a.

(p)237.3

242

239.1

235.7

Marketing/Promotion

60.6

59.4

55.9

51.5

61

Unemployment (1)

n.a.

(p)8.2

8.5

8.9

10.1

Unemployment Rate (2)

n.a.

(p)3.3

3.4

3.6

4.1

Hiring Plans

48.4

52.8

51

47.6

46.4

Values above 50 generally indicate an increase in activity

BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS: WAGE & SALARY

KEY STOCKS — MONTH-END CLOSE

The regular report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics tracking the region's job performance.

A report on price changes for key local stocks and others that reflect the health of the region's economy.

Jan. ‘17

Dec. ‘16

Nov. ‘16

Oct. ‘16

Jan. '16

(P)231.8

235.2

238.5

237.3

225.2

12-month % change

(P)2.9

2.2

2.9

2.8

2

Mining, Logging & Construction (3)

(P)6.5

6.8

7.3

7.6

6.3

12-month % change

(P)3.2

3

4.3

7

3.3

Manufacturing (3)

(P)20.7

20.9

20.9

20.8

19

12-month % change

(P)8.9

5.6

6.6

6.1

3.3

Trade, Transportation & Utilities (3)

(P)36.8

38.1

37.9

37.4

36

Total Nonfarm (3)

12-month % change

(P)2.2

2.4

2.7

3.6

5

Information (3)

(P)2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

2.9

12-month % change

(P)0.0

0

0

0

-3.3

Feb. ‘17

Jan. ‘17

Dec. ‘16

Nov. ‘16

Feb. '16

Spartan Motors

6.65

7.90

9.25

8.95

3.59

General Motors

36.84

36.61

34.84

34.53

29.44

Emergent BioSolutions

31.38

30.27

32.84

26.76

31.95

Neogen

64.86

66.74

66.00

63.28

49.25

Gannett (Lansing State Journal)

8.72

9.62

9.71

9.54

15.26

Gray Broadcasting (WILX)

13.6

11.85

10.85

10.10

11.54

Media General (WLNS)

n.a.

14.01

18.83

18.37

16.62

Bank of America

24.68

22.64

22.10

21.12

12.52

UPS

105.76

109.13

114.64

115.92

96.55

Home Depot

144.91

137.58

134.08

129.40

124.12

Kroger*

31.8

33.96

34.51

32.30

39.91

Financial Activities (3)

(P)15.9

16.1

16

15.9

15.6

12-month % change

(P)1.9

1.3

1.3

0.6

2

Macy's Inc.

33.22

29.54

35.81

42.20

43.21

22

Wal-Mart Stores

70.93

66.74

69.12

70.43

66.34

Professional & Business Services (3)

(P)22.2

22

22.5

22.5

*Adjusted for stock split

12-month % change

(P)0.9

-0.5

0.4

0.9

0.5

Education & Health Services (3)

(P)32.2

32.6

32.6

32.5

31.4

12-month % change

(P)2.5

3.2

4.2

4.2

3

Leisure & Hospitality (3)

(P)19.4

19.7

19.8

19.8

18.1

12-month % change

(P)7.2

4.2

5.9

4.2

0.6

Homes for rent

Other Services (3)

(P)10.3

10.4

10.4

10.6

9.9

Median listing price

12-month % change

(P)4.0

2

4

5

1

Price per square foot

$64

$82

$72

Government

(P)64.9

65.7

68.2

67.3

64

Median closing price

$110,000

$160,000

$130,000

12-month % change

(P)1.4

1.1

1.5

0.7

0.9

Median days on market*

80

74

86

Percent change*

-4

-9

-1

Source: Realtor.com research, March 10, 2017

Homes for sale

(1) Number of persons, in thousands, not seasonally adjusted.

(2) In percent, not seasonally adjusted.

(3) Number of jobs, in thousands, not seasonally adjusted. See About the data.

(P) Preliminary

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TRI-COUNTY HOUSING STATISTICS

G R E AT E R L A N S I N G B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY

Ingham

Clinton

Eaton

1455

368

145

156

14

72

$110,000

$185,000

$145,000

*Includes only single family homes and condo-townhomes, excludes pending listings

APRIL 2017

LANSING AT A GLANCE

CLINTON COUNTY WORKPLACES AND WAGES Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics quarterly Census of Employment and Wages

Number of Workplaces

June '16 Employment

Total 2nd quarter wages*

Average Weekly Wages

Total, all industries

1,126

15,061

$150.8

$860

Service providing

850

10,414

$86.1

$798

Goods producing

276

4,647

$64.7

$1,208

Natural resources and mining

56

915

$9.1

$697

Construction

161

1,431

$16.0

$1,044

Manufacturing

59

2,301

$39.7

$1,285

Trade, transportation, and utilities

228

4,066

$37.1

$647

Information

15

49

$0.5

$1,072

Financial activities

105

1,083

$10.4

$1,159

Professional and business services

175

1,166

$13.8

$951

Education and health services

100

1,579

$12.9

$971

Leisure and hospitality

90

1,795

$6.8

$296

Other services

132

644

$4.3

$725

5

32

$0.2

$440

Unclassified *In millions

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LEGISLATIVE CORNER

IDEAS & INNOVATION MATTER

BY STEVE JAPINGA

Entrepreneurs have always been a driving force for economic growth. More recently, they have played an increasingly important role in Michigan’s comeback as well as diversifying local economies statewide.

In a recent report from the Michigan Venture Capital Association, there has been a 48 percent increase in funding to Michigan start-ups. 74 Michigan companies have received more than $282 million from Michigan venture capital firms. These are promising numbers for Michigan entrepreneurs.

In the greater Lansing region, there are a number of organizations assisting entrepreneurs in reaching their goals: • Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation • Michigan State University Foundation • Spartan Innovations • Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP)

New Economy Division • Entrepreneur Institute of Mid-Michigan • The Hatching • Small Business Development Center Lansing Community College • The NEO Center • The Fledge - Grand Ledge • Small Businesses of Mich. (SBAM) An entrepreneur’s success doesn’t just end when his or her business is up and running.

Entrepreneurs tend to be great idea people; however, they sometimes struggle at how to take that next step in the evolution of their business.

The team at the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) is laser focused on helping ensure that businesses continue to grow. From networking events to the Business Education Series, to advocating for a better regulatory business environment and most recently, the digital Lansing Marketplace, there are an array of opportunities for businesses to build their brand.

Being an entrepreneur isn’t always about creating a product for market. It truly is about bringing ideas, creativity and innovation to life. One area frequently discussed is attracting and retaining talent to the region. People with great ideas can take those ideas anywhere they desire. As a community, it is important to build a region that encourages innovators to stay and grow in greater Lansing. Below is a list of initiatives that are aimed to address this issue — each coming from groups of individuals starting with an idea.

Grand River Connection: Seeks to develop a stronger network to support Lansing and East Lansing’s young and vital workforce. grandriverconnection.com Lansing 5:01: Strives to retain and attract young professionals in the Lansing region by connecting both college talent and young professionals to the community’s emerging quality of life opportunities. lansing501.com Penny for Your Thoughts (Our Community Foundation): Community-wide contest for ideas to make Lansing vibrant. pennycontest2017.ourcommunity.org T3 – Teach, Talent, Thrive: A network of connected assets to support education and talent development. teachtalentthrive.org As more and more entrepreneurs emerge, it is important to ensure the regulatory environment is ripe for success. As the Chamber’s government relation’s director, much of our department’s time is spent working with local, state and federal officials to make sure we have smart regulations for our businesses, not regulations that hinder economic investment and job creation.

Entrepreneurship is vital to Michigan and our region’s continued growth.

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517.482.5501

In greater Lansing, we welcome new ideas that will continue to move our region forward. Have an idea? Contact me at 517-853-6467 or sjpainga@ lansingchamber.org. I’ll make sure to connect you with the right avenue for success!

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Because you really DO deserve to be comfortable

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G R E AT E R L A N S I N G B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY

WHATEVER IT TAKES.

APRIL 2017

Steve Japinga is Director of Government Relations for the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce.

He is responsible for developing and managing the Chamber’s policy priorities as well as monitoring local, state, and federal issues that may impact the business community and the Greater Lansing region. He is a graduate of Michigan State University and lives in Lansing with his wife Katherine and dogs, Charlie and George.

Purchase tickets now for the first mom & me tea party and luncheon as we listen to a guest speaker about supporting and empowering women.

Daughters seven or older will most enjoy the program.

Guest Speaker

Gretchen Whitmer

Saturday May 13, 2017 11:30 a.m. — 1:30 p.m.

Old Town Marquee 319 E. Grand River Ave. | Lansing, MI 48906 Purchase tickets at CAWLM.COM/mom-me-tea $60 per pair C

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BUSINESS CALENDAR

APRIL 2017 APRIL 4 CADL BUSINESS LIBRARIAN AT SBDC: GOOGLE ANALYTICS FOR BEGINNERS, LANSING Google Analytics enables you to measure your website traffic to understand your customers and to improve your online business. You will learn how to set measurement goals that are right for your business and how to use data to make better business decisions. Laptops will be available or you can bring your own to get direct help in enabling Google Analytics on your website. Be sure to have your login information to edit your site, and your login and password. This event will be held at the Small Business Development Center, 309 North Washington Square No. 115 from 9 to 11 a.m. Registration is required.

You can register and find more information by visiting cadl.org.

APRIL 4 DOWNTOWN BUSINESS HUDDLE, LANSING Network with downtown business managers and stakeholders and get the inside scoop on what’s happening downtown. Breakfast and coffee will be provided. The Downtown Business Huddle happens monthly at 8 a.m. at Midtown Brewing Company, 402 South Washington Square.

APRIL 7 WAKE UP OLD TOWN, OLD TOWN Wake Up Old Town is a free and informal networking opportunity for professionals from all over Lansing. Come together and share your big ideas and opportunities to help businesses and Old Town thrive. Wake Up Old Town is held on the first Friday of each month at rotating locations around Old Town. This month the meeting will be held from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at Sir Pizza, 201 East Grand River Ave. Raynika Battle will be speaking on the Do 1 Thing Program. Visit iloveoldtown.org for more information.

APRIL 12 GET PAID: COLLECTING ON PAST-DUE ACCOUNTS, LANSING Making collection calls can be awkward and confrontational. This webinar will show you how to keep valued clients with a combination of strategies that will help you collect the most money. Learn about debt collection, collection calls tips and hints, customer relations and time management.

58

This webinar is $75 for members and $95 for non-members. Visit michamber.com to register.

APRIL 12 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CAREER WOMEN MONTHLY MEETING, LANSING The NACW is a nonprofit organization devoted to the enhancement of women’s personal and professional development. Their mission is to create an enriching environment for career women to share, grow and build professional and personal relationships that will enable them to reach their full potential. Lunch meetings are the second Wednesday of each month from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Urban Beat Event Center. Reserve your luncheon spot as a guest or member by visiting nacwonline.org/chapters/Lansing.aspx.

APRIL 18 PAYING EMPLOYEES: WAGE & HOUR/ FLSA COMPLIANCE, LANSING Wage and hour laws and implementation of related regulations are complex and can burden employers. The Fair Labor Standards Act is the hottest area of employment litigation and small and medium-sized employers are frequently the target due to the depth of technical compliance issues and limited resources. This full-day seminar will dive into the latest exemption rules, how to address primary compliance issues, how USDOL wage and hour audits work to name a few. This seminar will be held at the Michigan Chamber of Commerce from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost of attendance is $295. Visit michamber.com for more information.

APRIL 19 8TH ANNUAL MICHIGAN HR DAY, LANSING Michigan HR Day is an opportunity for human resource professionals and business owners responsible for the HR function in Michigan, to exchange information, ideas and experiences.

Learn about what’s next in healthcare reform, how to gain motivation and recognition skills and successfully recruit veterans, to name a few. The HR Day begins at 8:40 a.m. and ends at 4:15 p.m. at the Lansing Center, 333 East Michigan Ave. Cost of attendance is $35. Visit michiganhr.org for more information and to sign up for this informative seminar.

APRIL 19 SIMPLE STEPS TO IMPROVE YOUR CYBER SECURITY FOR HR, LANSING We are constantly exposed to cyber threats within our workplaces. Some positions,

G R E AT E R L A N S I N G B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY

APRIL 2017

such as human resources and accounting, have higher risks than others. Learn to be aware of your responsibilities and accountabilities when using a computer on a business network to reduce risk. This webinar is $75 for members and $95 for non-members. For more information and to register visit michamber.com.

APRIL 21 TEAM CITY MARKET, LANSING Are you passionate about Lansing? Maybe you have some new ideas that would help make this city and its riverfront a more bustling shopping and entertainment hub. If so, join TEAM City Market and meet with other inspired members of the community.

Newbies are always welcome! Take out lunch will be available from Waterfront Bar & Grill or you can bring your own.

Meetings are from noon to 1 p.m. Stop by lansingcitymarket.com for more information.

APRIL 26 PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING: LEGAL & EFFECTIVE USE IN HIRING, LANSING Lawful and thorough pre-employment screenings are essential to avoid a workplace employment claim. Workplace screenings also insure that your future employee is compatible for your business.

This webinar is $75 for members and $95 for non-members. Visit michamber.com to register for this informative event.

APRIL 26 14TH ANNUAL IMAGES AND PERCEPTIONS DIVERSITY CONFERENCE, DEARBORN This year’s 14th Annual signature conference is in collaboration with the Positive Zone, an organization dedicated to creating unity within community and promoting cultural awareness across boundaries. This workshop will provide you with the tools of engagement toward minimizing the divide and strengthening businesses, schools or agencies to promote the positive role of diversity. Registration includes breakfast, lunch, workshop materials and a certificate of completion.

The workshop will be held at the Byblos Banquet Center, 7258 Chase Road in Dearborn. Cost to attend is $100 per person.

Visit michiganbusinessnetwork.com for more information and to register.

NOTABLE NEWS

collectively sought to create a true main street, where diversity in all its forms coalesces in the heart of downtown. We are on the cusp of realizing this dream, and I want to say thank you to the Ballein Family and Harbor Bay Real Estate for their partnership and efforts in working to redevelop this critically important area of the city.”

“CENTER CITY DISTRICT” DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL UNVEILED IN EAST LANSING East Lansing Mayor, Mark Meadows, and the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) recently announced a major new mixed-use development proposed for the heart of East Lansing. The development team consisting of East Lansing’s own Ballein Family and the Chicago-based developer, Harbor Bay Real Estate Advisors, who are proposing to create the Center City District (CCD) along Albert Ave., transforming the cultural thoroughfare of East Lansing’s downtown into a pedestrian-focused lifestyle destination.

The proposed Center City District, which will redevelop the Albert Ave. parking lot and the 100-200 block along East Grand River Ave., consists of two residential towers with a combined 364 residential units: a twelve-story market-rate rental housing building along East Grand River Ave. (“Grand River Apartments”) on the south side of the block, and a six-story age-restricted, active living rental apartment building located on the north side of the block on Albert Ave. (“Albert

Apartments”). The Albert Apartments tower will sit atop a proposed six-story parking garage with 22,000 square feet of street level retail. The Grand River Apartments tower will include a large national retail/grocery tenant on the first floor.

Parking will consist of dedicated parking for the retail and residential, as well as additional public parking for East Lansing.

The total project cost is estimated at $132 million dollars and will create 400 to 500 temporary construction jobs and 75 to 100 permanent jobs.

“This project proposal is about bringing a longdiscussed vision for downtown East Lansing to life,” said Mayor Meadows. “Over the last 30 years, East Lansing leaders and residents have

Ultimately, the parking structure, Albert Ave. retail and infrastructure improvements created through this development will be owned by the city, serving to generate ongoing revenue into the future. The project is contingent upon the support of East Lansing’s City Council, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, Downtown Development Authority and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

DEWPOINT WELCOMES NEW EMPLOYEES TO LANSING Dewpoint, a leading provider of technology consulting and implementation solutions, is pleased to welcome several new employees to Lansing: Charles Biewer: GIS Administrator Daisha Herring: QA Engineer

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NO WARRANTY OR REPRESENTATION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, IS MADE AS TO THE ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN, AND THE SAME IS SUBMITTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGE OF PRICE, RENTAL OR OTHER CONDITIONS, PRIOR SALE, LEASE OR FINANCING, OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE, AND OF ANY SPECIAL LISTING CONDITIONS IMPOSED BY OUR PRINCIPALS NO WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONS ARE MADE AS TO THE CONDITION OF THE PROPERTY OR ANY HAZARDS CONTAINED THEREIN ARE ANY TO BE IMPLIED.

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NOTABLE NEWS

Mark Knowlton: Systems Engineer Scott Konopinski: Business Analyst Brian Loomis: Enterprise Architect Thomas Manzagol: Senior Project Manager Robert Mowid: Account Executive Steven Scutt: Senior Program Manager Franks Skeels: Senior Project Manager John Wirthlin: Senior Project Manager John Wood: Systems Engineer

long-term strategic technology plans to maximize current resources and better position your organization for the future. The company is headquartered in Lansing, Mich. Additional information is available at dewpoint.com.

Founded in 1996, Dewpoint experts have a long success record of helping to develop short- or

5 LAKES ENERGY ANNOUNCES CHANGES IN LEADERSHIP TEAM, STAFF 5 Lakes Energy (5LE), Michigan’s premier policy consulting firm dedicated to advancing policies and programs that promote clean energy, sustainability and the environment is announcing changes to its leadership team and staff.

Co-Founder and Partner Stanley “Skip” Pruss of Northport, Mich. is now senior fellow following his retirement on Feb. 28. In his new role, Pruss will offer counsel on clean energy issues as needed. The recipient of numerous awards and recognitions, Pruss has devoted seven years to the company he founded, and where he focused on energy policy and clean energy system development.

Dr. Laura Sherman of Toledo, Ohio has joined 5LE as a senior consultant specializing in wind and other clean energy sources. Prior to joining 5LE she served as a policy advisor to Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO) where she worked on recent LAURA SHERMAN extensions of the renewable tax credits, advancing federal initiatives on building energy efficiency and supporting land conservation efforts.

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G R E AT E R L A N S I N G B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY

APRIL 2017

Karl Boothman of Northern Cali. has joined the firm as a consultant. Boothman is assisting with economic research and analysis regarding utility regulation and clean energy policy as well as providing expert testimony on KARL energy issues around BOOTHMAN the country. Prior to joining 5LE he spent a summer volunteering with a water law and policy nonprofit where he conducted economic research on oil pipelines in the Great Lakes Region and three years in his hometown of Ann Arbor, Mich. consulting on regulatory economics with a focus on antitrust and price fixing litigation.

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NOTABLE NEWS

VIC VERCHEREAU TO SERVE AS 2017 CHAIR OF THE LANSING ECONOMIC CLUB Vic Verchereau, LUTF, LLIF of Farm Bureau Insurance of Michigan will serve as the 2017 chair of the Lansing Economic Club. Verchereau succeeds Deb Muchmore who is serving as the 2017 chair of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

“It is an honor to serve as chair of the Economic Club and work with the talented people who serve on that board,” said Verchereau. “Under Deb Muchmore’s leadership, the Economic Club has grown into a must-attend event that attracts some of the best speakers anywhere, and regularly draws crowds of 500 or more. I look forward to continuing to build on that marvelous record of success.”

Verchereau has worked at Farm Bureau Insurance since November 1980. He currently holds the

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position of vice president, marketing.

Among his numerous community activities, Verchereau served five years on the board of directors of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, including serving as board chair in 2010. He holds a VIC VERCHEREAU bachelor’s degree in business administration from Davenport College.

Economic Club Luncheons take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center. For more information, please contact Travis Richardson at trichardson@ lansingchamber.org or (517) 853-6463.

DART BANK ANNOUNCES PROMOTION Peter Kubacki, president and CEO of Dart Bank, is pleased to announce the promotion of C. Lee Ann Henson to bank secrecy act officer/ internal auditor.

Henson joined the bank in 2014 as audit/ C. LEE ANN compliance and BSA HENSON support, and was promoted to internal auditor/BSA support in 2015. She has 21 years of banking experience in retail, operations and management. Henson holds a bachelor of business administration degree major in accounting, from Baker College.

She has been involved in, and supported, many organizations over the years including The Women of the Moose, Meals on Wheels and Habitat for Humanity.

CLARK CONSTRUCTION RECOGNIZED AS FIRST IN THE NATION IN SAFETY

A service provided by

Michigan Secretary of State Ruth Johnson 62

G R E AT E R L A N S I N G B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY

APRIL 2017

Clark Construction Company’s long-standing reputation as the national leader in construction safety was solidified this week as the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) named Clark as the first place winner of its prestigious AGC Construction Safety Excellence award (CSEA). Clark was recognized in the 150,000 to 350,000 work hours category. The award was presented at the AGC National Convention is Las Vegas.

NOTABLE NEWS

The AGC CSAE award recognizes those construction companies who excel at safety and health performance. This program closely examines each candidate’s commitment to safety and occupational health management and risk control. AGC’s CSEA selection process is considerably comprehensive. Judges look for evidence of company management commitment, active employee participation, safety training, work site hazard identification and control and safety program innovation.

Clark Construction has won virtually every major state and national safety award in the past 15 years. Clark recently completed 4 million hours on the job without lost time due to injury. Since January 2000 when the historic streak began, Clark Construction has averaged approximately 250,000 work hours per year and completed more than $3.2 billion in construction projects.

JACQUELYN A. DUPLER RECOGNIZED AS A “TOP 5 UNDER 35” ATTORNEY Jacquelyn A. (Jackie) Dupler has been named a “Top 5 Under 35” attorney by the Ingham County Bar Association. Dupler is an associate in the Lansing office of the Sinas Dramis Law Firm. She focuses her practice on domestic relations matters.

JACQUELYN A. DUPLER

The “Top 5 Under 35” award is given to young lawyers who have distinguished themselves in their relatively short career by demonstrating exemplary character, integrity, judgment and legal scholarship; service to the profession and the bar; service to the community; and a reputation for, or the advancement of, the highest legal standards and professional responsibility.

Dupler is currently president of the Ingham County Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Section (YLS) and serves as a board member to the Ingham County Bar Association. In 20152016, she was a board member of the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan Mid-Michigan Region. She is currently an ex-officio member of the Ingham County Bar Foundation Board of Directors, and a member of the Ingham County Bar Association Family Law Section, the TriCounty Family Law Association, the Michigan Association for Justice and the National Association of Career Women.

Prior to joining Sinas Dramis, Dupler clerked for a judge in the Ingham County Circuit Court Family Law Division. She earned her law degree from Michigan State University College of Law. The Sinas Dramis Law Firm concentrates its practice on personal injury and wrongful death matters, including claims arising from motor vehicle, motorcycle, semi-truck and bicycle accidents. The firm, founded in 1951, also maintains an active family law practice.

The firm has offices in Lansing, Grand Rapids and Chicago.

GLCVB AND TEAM LANSING FOUNDATION ANNOUNCE CERTIFIED TOURISM AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR The Team Lansing Foundation, along with the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau (GLCVB), is pleased to recognize Doug Klein, CTA, executive director of the Mason Area Chamber of Commerce, as the 2016 Greater Lansing Certified Tourism Ambassador of the Year.

“Tourism is about creating experiences and front-line workers can have the biggest impact on making a visitor’s time in Greater Lansing memorable,” said Jack Schripsema, president of the DOUG KLEIN GLCVB and executive director of the Team Lansing Foundation. “Doug exemplifies the goals of the CTA program by being outgoing and helpful during his interactions with visitors, encouraging them to visit our many community assets and to experience, explore and then welcome others to the Greater Lansing community.”

The Greater Lansing Certified Tourism Ambassador program aims to equip residents in front-line hospitality and tourism-related positions, such as hotel, local attractions and restaurant employees, with a more in-depth knowledge of the area’s many assets so they

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NOTABLE NEWS

may help create a more positive and memorable visitor experience. Upon completion of the program curriculum, participants will receive a thorough education and a nationally recognized certification designation to add to their resume.

While focused on the hospitality community, any interested greater Lansing resident may enroll. Currently there are over 500 CTA’s in the area. The cost for the course is $20 per person, with group rates also available. To access a class schedule and additional information, visit lansing.org/cta.

CENTURY 21 LOOKING GLASS EMPLOYEES RECOGNIZED FOR OUTSTANDING SALES 2016 VOLUME Century 21 Looking Glass is proud to share that Kori Shook, Genia Beckman, Jason Richey, Terry Shellhorn, Belle Latimer, Karen Holoweiko, Jim Convissor, James Pyle, Randy Powers, Kim Lawrence, Mitch Crank, Monica Warner, Michelle Snyder, Robert Gross, Jon Durham, and Marv Breedlove recently were recognized for their outstanding sales 2016 volume. Additionally, Jon Durham, Karen

Holoweiko, and Kori Shook earned awards for superior customer service from Quality Service Certification, an independent firm specializing in surveying customer satisfaction with real estate agents. As a result of surpassing a 95 percent customer service satisfaction rating for three years in a row, Century 21 Looking Glass also received the Quality Service Pinnacle Office Award.

GILLESPIE GROUP ANNOUNCES PHASE II OF MARKETPLACE Gillespie Group continues to invest in downtown Lansing with the second phase of Marketplace lofts which include 79 additional apartments, bringing the development total to 158. These additional riverfront apartments bring Gillespie’s downtown urban living spaces count upwards of 350; continuing to show Gillespie Group’s initiative to the revitalization of the City of Lansing and the riverfront.

Gillespie Group kicked off the demand for urban living with Stadium District in 2008, followed by Marketplace Phase I in 2014, The

Outfield in 2016 and now Marketplace Phase II. Located at 313 N. Cedar Street, Marketplace is a vibrant, urban development close to Michigan State University and in the heart of downtown Lansing. Amenities include a riverside patio, a resident workout room, a dog washing station and access to the rooftop for lounging and views of the city and riverfront.

The 64,784 -square-foot building houses five floors, consisting of micro, one and two bedroom options available in the new expansion. The builder for the new expansion is the Lansing-based Wieland.

Marketplace Phase II represents another dynamic partnership between Gillespie Group and the City of Lansing, Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP), Huntington Bank and Wieland.

For more information about the space, call Gillespie Group at (517) 333-4123 or visit gillespie-group.com.

COLDWELL BANKER HUBBELL BRIARWOOD WELCOMES DODIE NELLER Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood is pleased to announce realtor, Dodie Neller has joined the team. She has partnered with Joe Vitale and looks forward to offering continued luxury representation for the greater Lansing areas’ sellers and buyers. She will be working out of the East Lansing office.

ELKINS NAMED DIRECTOR OF BROADCASTING AND GENERAL MANAGER OF WKAR PUBLIC MEDIA Susi Elkins has been named director of Broadcasting and general manager of WKAR Public Media at Michigan State University (MSU), effective immediately.

Elkins has been serving as interim director since May 2016. Under her leadership, the station launched a new 24/7 PBS Kids channel and live stream; created WKAR Family, a new content initiative in partnership with MSU researchers and educators aimed at forming connections to help kids be resilient, lifelong learners; and made programming adjustments to bring more classical music and local news to radio listeners.

New partnerships with Detroit Public Television will bring new content to the capital region community while extending WKAR’s reach into southeast Michigan.

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SPONSORED SPONSORED

SMART TIPS FOR A WEDDING THAT WOWS.

© MarryMeMichigan.com

Step inside Greater Lansing’s premier event venue to learn how you can have it all.

IF YOU HUNGER FOR THEWITH BEST OF RECENTLY RECOGNIZED THE GREATER LANSING’S PRESTIGIOUS IHG® TORCHBEARER PLACES TO IT’S TIME TO BREAK THE AWARD, THEDINE, CROWNE PLAZA LANSING CHAIN. TEAM IS ALWAYS UP FOR A CHALLENGE. There is an art to hosting an event that wows your guests and allows you to enjoy every minute without stressing over the details. Our dedicated Crowne Meetings experts live for this challenge and share their tips and experiences to help you do just that.

We understand the value of your time, which is why we reply to every event inquiry within 2 hours.

Booking early and being flexible with your preferred wedding date can really work to your advantage.

Fridays, Sundays and dates outside of the peak season are typically less busy for both venues and vendors, which leaves opportunity for better rates.

The Crowne Plaza Lansing West boasts over 17,000 sq. ft. of event space, allowing you to simplify planning for your bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception or even a post-wedding family brunch for opening gifts and saying farewells.

While the venue is the backdrop for the occasion, your personality truly shines in the details. This is where selecting the right team is key. We’ve built a reputation for attentive service and all-inclusive packages that showcase your wedding style. From custom color uplighting to choice of napkin color, centerpieces, dance floor, cake cutting, placement of your favors, bar service, décor consulting and more…It’s all there!

The menu is another area where you can add your own personal touch. Our talented culinary team is experienced with using seasonal ingredients in unexpected ways and customizing menus for a variety of cultures, family traditions and dietary

needs. As a one-stop location, we can handle just about anything! Let us create the wedding cake or unique interactive dessert station you’ve been dreaming of.

This summer we mark 35 years of being locally owned, which means we’ve had the pleasure of building relationships with vendors who are as passionate about their craft as we are.

We’re happy to provide recommendations to help make your to-do list even shorter. The Crowne Plaza Lansing West is also a proud partner of the nearby Woldumar Nature Center, where we provide off-site catering for events hosted in their historic barn.

Remember your out-of-town guests by arranging a block of overnight rooms at a special group rate.

They’ll appreciate the convenient location, stylish spaces, 24-hour pool and sport court, full-service restaurant and bar, in-room microwave, refrigerator, 48” HDTV, aromatherapy kit and other thoughtful amenities.

When it comes to your special day, you really can have it all.

Connect with us today for a site tour.

CONTACT: Dino Kafantaris Crowne Meetings Director 517.391.1351 | yourfriends@cplansingwest.com At your service…let the planning begin!

925 S CREYTS RD LANSING, 48917 | 517.323.7100 | WWW.CROWNEPLAZA.COM/LANSINGWEST LL Aa NnSsI Ni nG Bg UBS u eE sW s N I NsEiSnS N S . CeOw Ms .

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In her previous position as WKAR television station manager, Elkins oversaw all TV programming, including original content production and partnerships for the station’s broadcast channels and digital platforms.

During her tenure as TV station manager, WKAR-TV was named the Michigan Association of Broadcasters (MAB) Public Television Station of the Year for five consecutive years (20112015), and earned numerous regional Emmy Awards and top awards from the MAB and the National Educational Telecommunication Association, among others.

Prior to her appointment as TV station manager, Elkins served as Content and Community Engagement manager for WKAR, where she oversaw the convergence of media and programming in TV and radio and the ongoing growth of original content across platforms.

Under her direction, WKAR increased capacity for providing experiential learning opportunities for MSU students. Elkins also increased WKAR’s commitment to early childhood education and solidified the station’s reputation as a community institution through strategic partnerships and collaborations.

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GLCVB WELCOMES BRENDA HAIGHT TO DESTINATION SALES DEPARTMENT The Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau (GLCVB) is pleased to announce it has hired Brenda Haight, CMP, CTA as Sales Manager.

Haight brings with her over 17 years BRENDA HAIGHT of experience in destination sales, working most recently with Boyne Resorts in Northern Mich. Previously, Haight was with Discover Kalamazoo for 12 years.

Haight is a long-time member of the Society of Government Meeting Planners and the Michigan Society of Association Executives.

Haight’s role with the GLCVB will be focused on growing event business and managing relationships within state association markets.

G R E AT E R L A N S I N G B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY

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MAKER FAIRE COMES TO LANSING The first ever Lansing Maker Faire is coming Sat., April 29 and Sun., April 30 to the Meridian Mall.

Lansing Maker Faire intersects the traditional science fair with the modern-day innovation and engineering of the Maker Movement.

Maker Faire has been nicknamed the Greatest Show and Tell on Earth—a family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity and resourcefulness, and a celebration of the Maker Movement. It’s a place where people show what they are making, and share what they are learning. Makers range from tech enthusiasts to crafters to homesteaders to scientists to garage tinkerers. They are of all ages and backgrounds.

The aim of Maker Faire is to entertain, inform, connect and grow the Lansing community.

Lansing Maker Faire will be FREE for attendees and will feature hands-on activities for the entire family. Lansing Maker Faire is being organized

by The Mini Maker Foundation, tinkrLAB and the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP). Any groups or individuals interested

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in learning more about Lansing Maker Faire, exhibiting as a Maker, volunteering or sponsoring in the inaugural Lansing Maker Faire can visit LansingMakerFaire.com.

GREATER LANSING ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® ANNOUNCES 2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS The Greater Lansing Association of REALTORS® has announced a newly elected Board of Directors for 2017.

Kim Dunham, broker of Keller Williams Realty will lead the Association as president with Roger Weymouth, broker of Century 21 Cedarwood serving as president-elect. Dunham, who also served as president in 2004, welcomes the challenge of a new year.

Newly elected Director Erica McAvoy, agent at Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood was selected to be vice president by the Board of Directors. Debbie Barnett of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Tomie Raines was elected as secretary.

Matt Robertson, broker of Century 21 Looking Glass and 2015 GLAR President was re-elected to the Board of Directors for another three-year term by the membership of the Greater Lansing Association of REALTORS® and named 2017 treasurer by the Board of Directors.

2016 President, Beth Graham, from Beth Graham Appraisals in Lansing will remain on the Board of Directors as the Immediate Past President Chad Dutcher of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Tomie Raines will serve as a director and multiple listing service (MLS) and forms committee chair. Dutcher is taking over the role previously held by Jeff Thornton at Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood.

Newly elected Director, Patrick Feldpausch of RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals Dewitt, will be joining the Board of Directors for the first year of a three-year term starting in 2017.

Other directors include Pete Holoway of Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood, Bill Sheridan of Sheridan Realty and Auction, Amy Sweet of RE/ MAX Real Estate Professionals Dewitt, and Ron Wheeler of Wheeler Real Estate Services, LLC.

CITY OF LANSING AWARDS $120,000 TO SUPPORT CREATIVE PLACEMAKING PROJECTS Mayor Virg Bernero recently announced that the City of Lansing will award $120,000 to support creative placemaking efforts in Lansing. The 2016-2017 Sense of Place in the Arts Program grant and project announcements include a $75,000 Arts Impact Project, and grants awarded to four local arts and cultural organizations totaling $45,000. The Sense of Place in the Arts Program is funded through the City of Lansing and administered by LEAP and the Arts Council of Greater Lansing.

The Arts Impact Project is an opportunity for Lansing residents to activate spaces in the city of Lansing through creative placemaking efforts that are artistic and permanent. This year’s project was chosen from more than 15 proposals at an open forum, and will be placed in Southwest Lansing, likely near the intersection of Pleasant Grove and Holmes Road. The project was proposed by At-Large Councilmember Kathie Dunbar and will be

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designed and constructed by local artists David Such and Fred Hammond.

media arts to document 20 stories of refugees who have resettled in metro Lansing.

The Grant Program will fund public programs that further enhance the City of Lansing’s creative placemaking efforts. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $30,000 have been awarded for building a sense of place through a wide range of artistic and cultural disciplines.

REO Town Commercial Association will produce mural painted bike lanes along S. Washington Ave. The murals will be installed in conjunction with the 2017 Art Attack. In addition, the bike lane stripes will be painted, and a bike repair station will be installed in REO Town.

The grantees and their projects are as follows:

For more information, visit LEAP’s website at purelansing.com/Company-Community-News.

Lansing Art Gallery will implement Pop Up Art: 2017, a collaborative project involving artists, residents, businesses and visitors. 2017 activities will artfully transform underutilized public newspaper kiosks to distribute free newspapers and showcase Michigan-made artwork.

Lansing Symphony Orchestra will present “Symphonic Cinema,” a free, public, orchestral concert in downtown Lansing featuring a live musical performance set to silent film. The concert will take place on Wednesday, April 5, 2017 at the Lansing Center.

Refugee Development Center will launch Newcomer Voices at the ThanksLANSING community cultural festival, where they will use

PIPER & GOLD PUBLIC RELATIONS CULTIVATES TEAM IN THE NEW YEAR

and media relations for government and association clients since joining the company in 2013.

The newly created senior strategist role will give Gracia-Wing increased capacity and ability to focus VERONICA on strategy work GRACIA-WING for Piper & Gold’s clients, an enhanced community leadership role, and cultivating staff professional development and growth to bring fresh ideas to the agency’s clients.

Piper & Gold Public Relations, a boutique agency in Old Town, Lansing, announces the promotion of Associate Strategist Veronica Gracia-Wing to senior strategist and the addition of Assistant Strategist Jackie McLane.

Piper & Gold has also welcomed back Jackie McLane as an assistant strategist. McLane spent a year-and-a half with the agency during her time as a student at Michigan State University.

Gracia-Wing has made a career out of her ability to clearly and effectively tell stories through active listening and creative translation. As one of Piper & Gold’s original team members and primary strategists, she has focused on storytelling

Prior to returning to the agency, McLane was the social media specialist at ArtPrize, an international art competition in Grand Rapids.

There she managed and created content for social media channels, as well as increased online audiences and engagement during the event.

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McLane is also the public relations and marketing coordinator for the Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum at MSU.

THE DAVIS-DUNNINGS BAR ASSOCIATION ELECTS NEW BOARD MEMBERS The Davis-Dunnings Bar Association is pleased to announce new executive board members. The Association provides support to African-American attorneys in mid-Michigan through networking and professional development opportunities.

Takura Nyamfukudza, elected president, is a passionate criminal defense and appellate law.

Kristen Simmons, elected vice president, is an assistant attorney general and served as the legal advisor to the Lansing Police Department and Public Safety Committee in Lansing.

Robert Easterly, elected treasurer, is a litigation and business attorney for Foster Swift Collins & Smith, PC. Taneashia Morrell, elected secretary, is a staff attorney at Lansing’s Legal Services of South Central Michigan.

hotwaterworks.com | (517) 364-8827 | 2116 E Michigan Ave.

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Brian Jackson, elected community outreach chair, is a criminal defense attorney in mid-Michigan.

THE COMPANY

The Lipsey Company named CBRE the top global brand in commercial real estate for the 16th consecutive year.

Lipsey, an independent training and professional development ďŹ rm specializing in commercial real estate, surveyed more than 150,000 U.S. and international professionals, including property owners, investors, lenders, occupiers, brokers and property managers.

Part of the CBRE affiliate network

Part of the CBRE affiliate network

Part of the CBRE affiliate network

Part of the CBRE affiliate network

CBRE #1 in Commercial Real Estate Worldwide

+1 517 351 2200 www.cbrelansing.com @CBREmartin

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Part of the CBRE affiliate network