GLBM March 2014

BUSINESS MONTHLY GR E ATE R LANS ING

MARCH 2014

Delta Institute Focuses on the Environment and the Economy In this issue •

SECONDARY USE DEBATE WAGES ON

•

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE BLM SUMMIT

•

DETROIT: HOW CAN WE HELP?

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CREAT!NG business opportunity Michigan’s capital area is a vibrant and dynamic business community.

A robust local creative community is helping power the knowledge economy in greater Lansing. CiesaDesign and Capital Area Michigan Works! are working together to grow the region’s talent base and help creative business thrive. Together, Capital Area Michigan Works! and CiesaDesign are committed to creating a world-class workforce.

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BUSINESS MONTHLY 20 News Secondary use Debate Wages on ......................................................................................6 Local Business Seeks Solutions to Selling Fair Trade Outlet ...............................8 Douglas J Offers Veterans a Fresh Start on Service..............................................10

BUSINESS MONTHLY GREAT E R LA NSI NG

MARCH 2014

City of Lansing, LEAP Announce $7 Million Mixed-Use Development........12 Farm Bill Serves up Major Changes for Agribusiness ..........................................14 BLM Leadership Summit set for March 10 ...............................................................16

Features Delta Institute Focuses on the Environment and the Economy ....................18 Detroit: How can we Help? ................................................................................................22 Delta Institute Focuses on the Environment and the Economy

Ingham County Land Bank: Greening up our Neighborhoods.........................24 In this issue •

SECONDARY USE DEBATE WAGES ON

•

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE BLM SUMMIT

•

DETROIT: HOW CAN WE HELP?

Live Green Lansing: Promoting a Healthier Environment and Economy....28

Departments Commentary.................................................................................................................................4 The Greater Lansing Business Monthly (Volume 27, Issue 3)

Legislative Update ..................................................................................................................30

The 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 020-807.

He Said, She Said .....................................................................................................................34

Subscriptions: One copy of The Greater Lansing Business Monthly is mailed free to all qualifying business addresses in the Lansing metropolitan area.

Residential, out-of-area and additional subscriptions are available at $35 per year for postage and handling.

The GLBM List .........................................................................................................................38

Postmaster: send address changes to The Greater Lansing Business Monthly, 614 Seymour Ave., Lansing, MI 48933. Send additional subscription requests and address changes to The Greater Lansing Business Monthly, Inc., 614 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933.

Copyright © 2014 The Greater Lansing Business Monthly, Inc. All rights reserved.

Man on the Street...................................................................................................................44

Regional Rotation ...................................................................................................................36

Workforce Development ....................................................................................................40 Continuing Education ...........................................................................................................42

Investments................................................................................................................................46 Real Estate .................................................................................................................................50 Marketing Savvy ......................................................................................................................52

Editorial Office: 614 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933 www.lansingbusinessmonthly.com

Business Calendar...................................................................................................................54

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Notable News............................................................................................................................56

Protecting What’s Important At Auto-Owners Insurance, we’ve been protecting what matters most to you since 1916. For all of your life, home, car and business insurance needs, call or visit Shinberg Insurance today.

East Lansing • 517-337-8415 www.shinberginsurance.com

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C O M M E N TA R Y

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BUSINESS MONTHLY Publisher: Tiffany Dowling tiffany@m3group.biz Editor: Emily Caswell emily@m3group.biz Sales Manager: Jennifer Hodges jhodges@m3group.biz Media Assistant: Jill Bailey Account Managers: Katie Brown Manny Garcia Production Director: Kelly Ritter Art Director: Lisa Twenter Graphic Artist: Jake Paquin Web Manager: Skylar Kohagen

Collaboration and Cooperation are Keys to Success

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would like to think that 2014 is the year of business-to-business and business to government’s critical collaborations. Throughout these pages, we talk about some of these collaborators, partnerships and big picture thinkers. From democrats and republications and the bipartisan Farm Bill to our topic for this month of Eco-business and how organizations need to connect, it’s time to talk and think collaboration and cooperation.

The Lansing community is talking about regionalism and a need to focus on the big picture. Although it isn’t always easy to get everyone on the same page, it’s time for people to agree that having a conversation about connecting the dots benefits more people, communities and ultimately the economic climate.

When Public Sector Consultants had a vision for doing more in an area that was important to them, they partnered with the Delta Institute to create a nonprofit organization dedicated to making energy programs affordable and ultimately spurring the economic climate through a focus on green initiatives.

Event Calendar Manager: Jaime Hardesty

GLBM Editorial Board: April Clobes - Executive Vice President, MSU Federal Credit Union Trish Foster - Senior Managing Director & COO, CBRE|Martin Lisa Parker - Director of Alumni Career and Business Services, Michigan State University Alumni Association Deb Muchmore - Vice President of Public Affairs, Marketing Resource Group Tom Ruis - Vice President, Independent Bank Doug Klein - Executive Director, Mason Area Chamber of Commerce Mark Hooper - Partner, Andrews Hopper Pavlik Diontrae Hayes - Legislative Director for State Senator Coleman Young, II

With that in mind, here are important areas to consider for a highly collaborative society: 1 . The younger generation was built to work together (after all they all got a

medal for being a part of the team) 2 . Our social technology is connecting us in ways that make groups of diverging

opinions the norm 3 . The ability to work from anywhere at anytime lends itself to group connectivity

– mobile matters 4 . Integration is key. Finding a way to connect more thoughts and disciplines,

will help (like I’ve always said) 5. Becoming more vocal about the need for change and don’t fear progress

I would like to encourage businesses out there to find the part they can play and if they are not able to move forward alone, join an organization that is collecting resources – financial and human – to make a big difference together.

Be dynamic in all you do,

Tiffany Dowling | Publisher

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Clark Corners Located on Clark Road at the US-127/I-69 interchange. Up to 30,000 sf available, flexible configurations. Great location, visible from the highway. Adjacent land available.

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NEWS

Secondary use Debate Wages on Further discussion set to take place at public hearing in March

BY A NN COOL | PHOTO B Y MA R K WA R N E R

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here’s been a debate brewing between bar and restaurant owners, and beer and wine wholesalers — and those who support them — for a few years.

It centers around allowing liquor company logos on what is called “secondary use” items — mugs, glasses, coasters, napkins and so on.

Currently, these branded items are banned unless approved in writing by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).

This rule, now known as the Michigan Liquor Control Code Act of 1998, makes Michigan the only state that has a complete ban on such items.

Some believe it’s time to remove it; others want to protect it.

Scott Ellis, Executive Director, Michigan Licensed Beverage Association (MLBA) and Mike Lashbrook, President, Michigan Beer and Wine Wholesalers (MBWW), represent members on both sides of the debate.

Ellis calls the rule currently on the books “archaic” and he notes that the approvals for special use by the MLCC “have been very limited over the years.” Lashbrook calls the prohibition “reasonable” and promotes fair trade.

Marji Cheadle, owner of Dagwood’s in Lansing, agrees with Ellis that the rule doesn’t make sense. “We should have everything at our disposal to be able to market and promote our products,” she said. If she wants to promote a new vodka or a little-known craft beer, she wants to have the right to use small promotional items like coasters that she can afford to buy. “It’s money well spent.”

The debate began in 2010 when Governor Rick Snyder established the Office of

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(top) Local bar owner Chuck Scholfield and MLBA Executive Director Scott Ellis; (bottom) Example of a secondary use item.

Regulatory Reinvention (ORR) to review and update the Administrative Rules of all businesses throughout the state.

A newly-formed Liquor Control Advisory Rules Committee was asked to review Michigan’s Liquor Control rules and regulations and recommend changes within the liquor control system. One of the rules they looked at was Michigan Liquor Control Commission’s ban against promotional logos on “secondary use” items.

“The Michigan Administrative Rules prohibit the use of items of secondary use in on-premises establishments unless they have been approved by the MLCC,” said Ellis. “This means that anything with an alcoholic beverage brand logo that is not purely advertising and that can be used for some other purpose is not allowed in bars and restaurants.”

“Michigan has gone back and forth over the years on what is prohibited and what is allowed. The current Rule has been in place since 1977 and the Michigan Liquor Control Commissions over the years have

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historically not approved items of secondary use for all licensees,” Ellis said.

The MLBA and Michigan Restaurant Association submitted a request to the MLCC to rescind the rule in September 2013. Their argument is that “Michigan bars and restaurants want to be able to purchase and use alcohol brand logoed items to promote their business,” said Ellis. “There are many new and innovative Made in Michigan beers, wines and spirits available today that cannot be promoted in local bars and restaurants because of the secondary use ban.”

However, the wholesalers group and others disagree. They believe that larger establishments would have an unfair advantage over smaller ones — like craft breweries.

“These ‘secondary-use-and-value’ items are supplies that a bar or restaurant would need in the normal conduct of their business like glasses, coolers, draft equipment and so on,” Lashbrook said.

“If distributors or manufacturers were

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allowed to provide these items, the current competitive marketplace could become subject to undue and unfair influence from the highest bidders — including large businesses with the deepest pockets.”

Michigan wholesalers and distributors want to leave the law as it is because it limits “giveaways” and makes for an even playing field.

“These restrictions have resulted in a highly competitive marketplace and an even playing field that has allowed Michigan’s craft brewers to explode in the marketplace,” added Lashbrook.

“Michigan is No. 5 in the country in the number of craft brewers in the state — and Michigan’s beer sector is successful because of safeguards like common-sense, reasonable rules on ‘secondary-use-andvalue’ that promote fair competition for all businesses.”

The Michigan State Senate took up the debate, too. In November 2013, they passed a package of bills or tied together — including SB 505. SB 505 was introduced by Sen. Joe Hune (R) on Sept. 17, 2013, “to codify in law an administrative prohibition on alcohol manufacturers, sellers and distributors of alcohol giving bars and restaurants items that promoted brands and prices of their products, including things like glasses with brand logos, etc.”

But the fight isn’t over yet.

House Substitute 1, and Regulatory Reform Chair Hugh Crawford (R-Novi) introduced House Substitute 2.

House Substitute 1 would allow secondary use items to be purchased for use in licensed establishments and follows federal guidelines in regard to the issue. House Substitute 2 would allow the purchase of “barware,” which includes anything used to prepare or serve a drink, but must be purchased from a barware retailer not affiliated with the wholesaler or manufacturer.

This package of liquor laws, including SB 505, was referred to the House Committee on Regulatory Reform, chaired by State Rep. Hugh D. Crawford, District 38.

The House Committee members will hold a public hearing on March 19 for further discussion.

Members of the House Regulatory Reform Committee met to discuss two new proposed substitutes to Senate Bill 505, also known as the “secondary use” bill. Rep. Cindy Denby (R-Fowlerville) introduced

Ann Cool, MPS, is a freelance writer who lives in Mason with her husband Bob.

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Local Business Seeks Solutions to Selling Fair Trade Outlet

BY A NN K AMMERER | PH OTO B Y MA R K WA R N E R

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ail Catron first heard of fair trade in 2005 when she was browsing a local craft store.

“I kept thinking that people meant ‘free trade,’” says Catron of her initial exposure to handmade, artisan items from countries like Nicaragua, Columbia or El Salvador.

“So I went home and read up. I was so moved by the story of a South American mom who lived with her children in squalor that I had to get involved.”

The story affected her, she said, partly because she had been a single parent for years. She had put herself through school and earned two degrees, her second being in business from Michigan State University.

“I thought I had struggled,” Catron remarks.

“But I realized that none of us really knows what poverty is until we see it.”

Catron contacted the church vendor who had been selling the fair trade items and volunteered to help. She participated in sales through the church and organized

others through rotary clubs, community groups and through craft shows. After a while, she realized she could make an even bigger impact by opening a retail outlet with a fair trade philosophy.

Catron founded Kirabo in downtown East Lansing in 2007. She’s been successful, she says, building awareness and a community of buyers by selling merchandise made by artisans in third-world nations. She curates her merchandise, through 28 suppliers she’s found through personal connections as well as by attending fair trade federation conferences. And as a fair trade retailer and member of several fair trade alliances, she’s committed to supporting artisans in developing countries through fair wages, healthy working conditions, environmental sustainability, cultural identity and customer education.

But now, after nearly seven years, Catron has decided to move on and help shepherd her store in another direction.

She decided, she says, to explore options for selling her business that will retain the

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“Since our mission is different, I think the right buyer has to be passionate about fair trade,” says Catron. “But they also need to be skilled at running retail, which can be very demanding.”

A ROAD LESS TAKEN

Catron announced her choice to sell Kirabo in April 2013, about a year before the date her store’s lease is set to expire in the spring of 2014. She sent word through a store e-newsletter she circulates to about 2,000 people, as well as through a communication to 3,600 customers enrolled in Kirabo’s loyalty program.

About 40 individuals were invited to attend a community breakfast at which she began laying out plans and explaining her reasons for passing her store along.

“My mother is 92,” Catron explains. “And I have six grandchildren now that I didn’t when I opened the store. I love doing retail, but there have been weekends when I feel I’m neglecting my family.”

That first meeting, Catron says, revealed the depth of community she had built among her customers as well as with the half dozen churches she regularly works with to sell free trade merchandise. She decided to look at alternatives to selling the business, including transforming Kirabo into a nonprofit, running it as a volunteer organization through churches or putting it under the umbrella of a larger local business that deals in free trade.

More conventional options, she says, included selling to a private individual or partnership, or even raising funds to assist a buyer who lacks necessary capital for an

Gail Catron, owner of Kirabo.

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mission of fair trade while considering the demands of retail.

MARCH 2014

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initial investment. If nothing worked, she says, the final option would be to liquidate.

In February of 2014, Catron held a community forum to follow-up on ideas from last year’s breakfast meeting. Ideas were discussed, and options explored. She left with a commitment to make a final decision on the store’s direction no later than the middle of March.

Whatever the process, selling a business can be time consuming, emotional and life changing.

“Tend to the business at hand and let your advisers handle the process,” says Scott.

“Emotions can and will play a destructive part if they are allowed to go unmanaged.”

Ann Kammerer is a freelance writer living in East Lansing.

She has written extensively about business people, educators, artists and every day people doing good things in greater Lansing for a couple decades.

“Each week I’ve taken a few more steps,” says Catron. “We’re working through a lot of options right now and have a lot of different thoughts.”

SELLING BY THE NUMBERS

Although her approach is unconventional, Catron is tackling a question most every business owner will eventually face: how and when to sell.

That process, says business consultant George Scott, can be easy or complex, with a lot depending on the seller’s position or attitude.

“Listen to your advisers — your accountant, your attorney, your business mentor who has been through the process before,” says Scott, who has worked as a professional business broker and intermediary.

Scott says the average timeframe for selling a business is typically six months to a year. He advises that a seller properly prepare by devising an exit strategy that begins even before the sale is announced.

He advises, too, that sellers be prepared to provide any potential buyer with basic information including current financial records, tax returns, contracts, leases, promissory notes, employee information, lists of hard assets, and a list of customers, clients and suppliers.

“Explore internally why you’re considering selling,” says Scott. “If a person is selling because they are burned out, maybe all they need is a vacation. Or maybe they could consider selling a portion of the business to a strategic partner.”

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NEWS

Douglas J Offers Veterans a Fresh Start on Service Million Dollar Veterans Scholarship set to help up to 200 families

BY KRIS TINE RICHMON D | PH OTO S B Y L I SA T W E N TER

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ir Force Veteran Laurie Smith was ready for a change. Enrolling at Douglas J’s Institute in Royal Oak offered her the perfect opportunity for just that. What’s even more is, thanks to a new scholarship fund, Smith has helping in making the change.

Scott Weaver, President of Douglas J Companies, recently announced a Fresh

Start on Service scholarship fund. The $1 million dollar fund will help veterans like Smith and their immediate families with the cost of tuition at Douglas J Institutes located in East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Royal Oak and Grand Rapids.

“These men and women — whether they are on the front lines or keeping the homestead running while a loved one

is serving abroad — truly provide the highest form of service possible,” said Weaver. “We at Douglas J knew we had to come up with a way to give back.”

The funds have the potential to aid up to 200 families in getting to work.

As the first recipient, Smith is enjoying her time so far.

Scott Weaver announcing the Fresh Start on Service scholarship fund; (above-right) Douglas J care package used for the community-wide scavenger hunt; (bottom-right) Aveda products that were placed in the care packages.

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“I love the people at the school — the instructors, the staff, the students — it’s a very encouraging and inclusive environment which is different than I’m used to. I very much enjoy it,” said Smith.

With classes starting year-round at each location, Weaver said a fresh start is closer than one might think.

“A student attending full-time has the potential to complete school and get to work within one year’s time,” he added.

To add to the excitement and gain exposure for the scholarship program, Douglas J hosted their first-ever community-wide scavenger hunt. Clues were posted on Douglas J’s social media sites and lead community members in the Lansing, Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids and Royal Oak areas to a number of Douglas J care packages, each containing Aveda products and Douglas J Aveda Institute services totaling around $1,000.

help communities thrive. A Fresh Start on Service is a natural addition to many causes supported by the organization.

THE FUNDS HAVE THE

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.

Smith plans to use her education in a way that works best for her.

“I lean more toward working for myself.

It seems to be a good option for most veterans,” she said. “So, I figure it’s something easy, that I can do on my own even while I’m beginning my business.

I’m a single mom and I can do it out of my house if I had to.”

POTENTIAL TO AID UP TO 200 FAMILIES IN GETTING TO WORK. Douglas J has a 45 year history of providing high-quality experiences to guests, creating career opportunities for aspiring professionals in the salon industry, and investing in great causes that

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For more information about the Institute, the Million Dollar Veterans Scholarship or to fill out an application, visit www. douglasj.edu or call (877)334-8657 to speak with an Admissions Coordinator.

Heather L. Conway, CPA Heather L. Conway, CPA received her Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Accounting from Davenport University in 1993. She established Conway CPA & Associates in 2006.

Conway CPA & Associates provides a variety of professional business services ranging from basic accounting and bookkeeping to detailed tax planning and preparation including quarterly financial statements and year-end returns. Our tax planning services will allow you to maximize returns and limit liabilities.

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City of Lansing, LEAP Announce $7 Million Mixed-Use Development P HOTOS BY L IS A TWE N T E R

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ayor Virg Bernero and LEAP President and CEO Bob Trezise announced on Thursday, Feb. 6 that the current building occupying 4000 N. Grand River Ave., adjacent to the Capital Region International Airport and Peckham, Inc., will be demolished to make way for a new 80,000 square foot mixeduse development.

“Lansing’s economic momentum continues to build and this exciting development will add even more value to a key corridor in our city,” said Mayor Bernero.

“Thanks to the Eydes for believing in Lansing and investing in Lansing, and kudos once again to the LEAP team for making it happen.”

The current building, owned by Sam Eyde Management, has been deemed functionally obsolete and is eligible for redevelopment incentives from Lansing’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (LBRA). The total anticipated investment in the project is $7,000,000 and 25 new jobs will be created.

Mayor Virg Bernero announcing the new project; (right) Karl Dorshimer, President & CEO of LEDC.

“This project is adjacent to Port Lansing and the Capital Region International Airport. The corridor leading to the airport has tremendous opportunity for development,” said Bob Trezise. “It is important for the private sector to begin investing in this area to help grow regional investment as well as increase our global footprint.”

“We are looking forward to working together with the City of Lansing to develop this site to provide another vibrant project for visitors and locals traveling in and out of our Capital City,” said Sam Eyde II, Director of Business for Sam Eyde Management.

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The economic incentives for the project will be considered by the LBRA and the Lansing City Council at upcoming meetings.

Emily Caswell

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We Live Here. We Race Here. We Save Lives Here.

12th Annual Komen Mid-Michigan Race for the Cure® Sunday, April 27th • 2 p.m. • State Capitol When we say “We Live Here. We Race Here. We Save Lives Here,” we mean it!

In 2013, Komen Mid-Michigan funded 7 community grants that provide breast health education, screening and survivorship programs to uninsured and underinsured women in Mid-Michigan.

The annual Komen Mid-Michigan Race for the Cure is our largest fundraiser of the year. When you register, fundraise or donate, 75% of the net revenue stays in Mid-Michigan to help local people. The remaining 25% helps fund cutting-edge national breast cancer research. To date, Susan G. Komen Mid-Michigan has invested nearly $4.2 million in its mission to end breast cancer forever! When you Race for the Cure, you make an Impact in your community!

best science. boldest commUnity. biggest impact.

United in the fight against breast cancer.

Register today at:

www.komenmidmichigan.org or call 517.886.4901

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Farm Bill Serves up Major Changes for Agribusiness

BY TIF FANY DOWL IN G | PH OTOS B Y L I SA T WE N TER

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he most overlooked mega-bill of the past 12 months was front and center last month as President Barack Obama signed the nearly $1 trillion farm bill at Michigan State University with Michigan’s Congresswoman Debbie Stabenow by his side.

The bipartisan effort touts the fact that the legislation cuts $16.5 billion from the deficit. Some of the numbers look like this: food stamps are cut by $8 billion (relative to current law). Farm subsidy and commodity programs are cut by $14 billion. Conservation programs get cut by $4 billion. And crop insurance is increased by about $6 billion.

At the Farm Bill signing, President Obama said this effort supports all Americans.

“We can call it a jobs bill, innovation bill, conservation bill, energy bill, etc.” said President Obama. “It multitasks. It lifts our rural communities. We’ve had the strongest

stretch of exports and we’re selling more stuff to more people than ever before.”

While there is some debate as to whether this legislation supports all, President and CEO of Greenstone Farm Credit Services, Dave Armstrong said the bill was considered a win for the farming communities and businesses based on feedback received from its customers.

“About 20 percent of the new Farm Bill will be used for crop insurance, conservation and other commodity programs. These, and other Farm Bill provisions will provide farmers and other agribusinesses the certainty they need to produce food, fiber and fuels consumed in the United States and abroad,” Armstrong said.

AGRIBUSINESS MOVES FORWARD

With farmers expressing a positive perspective on the final version of the

long-term bill, Armstrong added that most farmers want to simply understand what is expected of them, how to follow the rules appropriately and security in their industries. With an understanding of what is expected of them, farmers are able to grow.

“The (Bill) will help farmers manage the inherent risks in their operations and allow them to improve and expand their businesses knowing they have some level of safety net should weather or markets move against them,” Armstrong said regarding business lending.

To try and mitigate the hit of removing agricultural subsidies or “direct payments,” the Farm Bill beefs up a different kind of subsidy -- a subsidy for crop insurance. This is complex, but in short, the government will make crop insurance cheaper by paying 62 percent and it will pay out some benefits at lower levels than previously. This new program

President Barack Obama poses with local dignitaries during his visit to Michigan State University in early February.

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President Barack Obama addresses the complexities of the Farm Bill during the February press event; (above-right) Obama signed the Farm Bill in the presence of press and local dignitaries.

could encourage a younger generation of farmer to stay involved with the family farm or begin a new generation of growing food or other commodities.

“We want rural companies to expand and they have during my administration,” said President Obama. “Even with this progress, too many rural Americans are struggling.

Many family farms are just scratching out a living. Farmers sometimes have to work outside of the farm to get healthcare and pay bills. It’s hard for younger farmers to get started. They feel like they have to leave the farm for opportunity.”

CRITICISM OF THE POLICY

While it’s called the Farm Bill, in truth, it’s more of a food bill. It sets policy including what we grow, what you know about your dinner and how much government spends in the process.

The meat industry is opposed to the fact that the Bill held on to the mandatory “country of origin labeling” rules that require meatpackers to label where animals were born, raised and slaughtered. The industry groups claim that these regulations cost the industry and therefore the consumer.

“WE WANT RURAL COMPANIES TO EXPAND AND THEY HAVE DURING MY ADMINISTRATION. EVEN WITH THIS PROGRESS, TOO MANY RURAL AMERICANS ARE STRUGGLING.” “This Bill has generated a great deal of concern by the livestock producers – primarily beef and swine growers,” said

Armstrong. “Producers are concerned because Canada and Mexico have received rulings that the US law violates World Trade Organization rules. They fear that these two large importers of US meat products may retaliate and start a trade war because the law (in their opinion) is an unfair barrier for them to sell their products here.”

Tiffany Dowling is the Founder and President of M3 Group, a full-service branding agency located in downtown Lansing, Mich.

She is also owner and publisher of Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine and the Greater Lansing Business Monthly. Dowling has helped businesses and organizations with branding needs for more than a decade.

Learn more at www.m3group.biz.

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NEWS

BLM Leadership Summit set for March 10 Free event offers update on Michigan’s business outlook

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et a taste of all the potential right here in Michigan by attending the Business Leaders for Michigan Leadership Summit: Building a New Michigan on Monday, March 10.

“Michigan is sitting on all this opportunity; we forgot what we are good at. This event reminds us of what Michigan excels at and all the opportunities that exist for us in the future if we grow the economy in these ways,” said Kelly Chesney, Business Leaders for Michigan (BLM) Communications Director.

Formed in 1970, BLM is the state’s business roundtable. It is an organization dedicated to making Michigan a “Top Ten” state for job, personal income and a healthy economy. The organization is composed exclusively of the chairpersons, chief executives or most senior executives of the state’s largest job providers and universities.

Free of charge, the leadership summit on Monday, March 10 takes place at the Kellogg Center on Michigan State

University’s campus.

The day promises to generate lively discussions and will offer attendees the opportunity to hear directly from industry leaders about the progress being made to grow a healthy economy.

P H OTO S P ROV IDED

BY KRIS TINE RICHMON D

Throughout the past two years, Michigan’s job, economic and personal income growth has been in Business Leaders for Michigan the Top Ten. While summit; (right) MSX International this is good news, headquarters in downtown BLM believes to really Detroit. become a Top Ten state, not just grow like one, leaders need to create more highdistinctive assets and strengths to quality jobs. With that in mind, in 2012, accelerate long-term economic growth.

BML released their Michigan Turnaround Simply put, this plan builds on what Plan with a strategy to grow up to 500,000 Michigan does best. new, good-paying jobs. The New Michigan Strategy calls for leveraging Michigan’s “We’ve looked at global trends and identified areas where Michigan can capitalize on its strength — by building on what Michigan does best,” said Chesney. “While there are other areas for growth beyond these six opportunities, based on a great deal of careful research, we believe that these areas are best positioned to grow good paying jobs and a sustainable economy.”

The following represents what BLM considers some of the best ways to accelerate Michigan’s growth: • Grow and brand our industrial, production and engineering capacity to develop a reputation as a Global Engineering Village

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• Capitalize on our strategic location and available resources to become a Gateway to the Midwest • Invest in a Higher Education Marketplace that boosts the state’s talent base and leverages its innovative strengths • Take advantage of Michigan’s natural resources to grow a Natural Resource Economy that sustainably drives exports • Amplify our automotive and manufacturing expertise to become a Global Center of Mobility • Develop a Life Sciences Hub based on our robust health, medical and biopharmaceutical capabilities

Chesney says that the payoff is great. “We have an exciting opportunity to grow and shape Michigan’s future. Consider this, from 2011 to 2012, the six New Michigan

opportunities produced jobs at twice the rate of total private sector employment and accounted for 40 percent of the total increase in private sector employment. ”

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COVER

Delta Institute Focuses on the Environment and the Economy

BY EMILY CAS WEL L | PH OTO S B Y L I SA T W E N T ER

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hen Lansing-based Public Sector Consultants (PSC), a research and program management firm, was looking for partners to join them in the development of Michigan Saves - a nonprofit organization dedicated to making energy improvements easy and affordable - they turned to the Delta Institute.

“Delta had the best mix of technical knowledge and experience, which was a great complement to PSC’s experience with energy policy, research and stakeholder facilitation,” said Julie Metty Bennett, senior vice president at PSC. “Five years later, we are still working with Delta. The success of our partnership can be seen in the success of Michigan Saves.”

Delta Institute was founded in 1998 out of the need to find the nexus between the economy and the environment.

“We believe environmental quality and economic development can be mutually inclusive,” said Todd Parker, project manager at Delta, “After 15 years, we remain true to the vision of our founders 18

and continue to help businesses, government and communities in the Great Lakes region create and implement innovative, market-driven solutions that build environmental resilience, economic vitality and healthy communities.”

“THINKING GREEN CAN CREATE NEW PRODUCTS AND SERVICES, INCREASE A COMPANY’S PROFILE WITH ITS CLIENTS

Of course one of those solutions is the joint project with PSC – Michigan Saves, which provides low-cost financing for qualified energy efficiency improvements as part of their mission.

Delta’s other Lansing-area partners include the Greater Lansing Food Bank, which Delta provided recommendations on stimulating urban agriculture in the greater Lansing area to and the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau, which Delta partnered with to develop the Guide to Green Events for Greater Lansing Michigan.

Delta is funded through a combination of government and foundation grants, corporate sponsorships, earned income and individual donations, allowing them to work across a number of platforms.

“Collaboration is a core value directing Delta’s work, so we work with a variety

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AND THE COMMUNITY, RETAIN EMPLOYEES AND INCREASE THEIR SATISFACTION AND IMPROVE OTHER COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES. IT CREATES A WIN-WIN-WIN SCENARIO: FOR THE COMPANY, FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND FOR THE COMMUNITY,” SAID PARKER.

of partners across many industries, from heavy industrial to light manufacturing to small retail operations,” said Parker.

Todd Parker, project manager at Delta and Julie Metty Bennett, senior vice president at PSC.

“Despite the differences amongst our partners, our message is the same – we can help companies improve environmental quality, and their bottom line, by reducing pollution and waste and using energy more efficiently. In addition to working with existing businesses, we also work to build new sustainable markets where we see supply and demand side opportunities. An example of this is Rebuilding Exchange, a materials reuse warehouse that has built a strong market for reclaimed lumber and materials in the Chicagoland region.”

Since its beginning, Delta Institute has seen a change in how they connect with those they work with.

“The direction of the dialogue has changed dramatically over the last couple of years. In the past, Delta needed

to convene stakeholders in government, business and communities to create consensus around tackling sustainability issues,” said Parker. “Now, businesses and government agencies are calling us directly. Our partners understand that environmental sustainability is part and parcel to economic sustainability, and they reach out to us for our technical knowledge and our pragmatic approach to developing customized solutions.

Our network continues to expand particularly in the private sector.”

business partners who are being pressed by their customers to develop metrics on environmental stewardship and performance. Resources are finite. When businesses think green, and look forward, opportunities for both cost reduction and revenue generation become clearer.”

Bottom line is, going green makes good economic sense today.

“They approached Delta, because Bank of America and Eaton Corporation asked suppliers, like Standard Register, to report their environmental footprint as a condition of doing business,” said Parker.

“The practice of large companies and OEMs ‘working up the supply chain’ continues to grow, providing opportunities for Delta

“Our partners tend to be proactive, seeking to make environmental improvements because it makes good business sense and improves long-term profitability,” said Parker. “Lately, we’ve been working with

One of those partners is Standard Register. Delta is working with them to help them better understand and manage the environmental footprint of their manufacturing facilities in the US.

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COVER

Help Your Workplace Spring Into Green Spring is a time when our thoughts turn green. We’re planning our outdoor gardens and freshening up our homes with some much-needed spring cleaning. It’s a great time to green up our workplace, too.

“Reducing energy use is the simplest way to be green and realize immediate savings. Start by purchasing LED light bulbs, which last years longer than traditional bulbs, saving you $50-$80 over their lifetime,” Parker said.

Small steps go a long way. From adding indoor plants that act like “natural air filters” to buying recycled office paper, print cartridges and other supplies, it’s easy to make our workplace greener, and save a little green (dollars) at the same time.

Encourage recycling and reuse. Peek into your waste bin to get an idea of what material is being discarded. If you encourage your staff to dispose of recycled materials in bins you provide, you can not only reduce the number of trash pick-ups but reduce the amount of materials being thrown into landfills.

We asked two professional environmental groups — Michigan Energy Options (MEO) and Delta Institute — located in the greater Lansing area for some tips on making workplaces more eco-friendly. John A. Kinch, PhD, Executive Director, of East Lansing’s MEO, and Todd Parker, Senior Manager, Delta Institute’s Lansing, Office, contributed some great ideas.

Here is a list of their combined suggestions.

Get a professional energy audit of your business.

This will uncover the ways you are losing energy and thus losing money. Take advantage of energy efficiency programs, such as those offered by the utilities.

“Utilities often have free programs and resources to help you evaluate your energy and water use,” Parker said.

“There are many nonprofit organizations that can help, too. Some of the assistance and resources are free, while some will have a cost. A small investment in expertise now could save you thousands over the long-run.”

Put a plan together to address your wasting of energy. This usually includes simple, no or low costs things like using energy-efficient lighting, programmable thermostats and bigger ticket items like installing more efficient heating systems, more insulation in your building.

to improve a company’s environmental footprint, while increasing profitability.”

Increased profits are just one of the benefits, said Parker, of a company being more environmentally-minded.

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Buy green. Purchase recycled office products and durable goods. Learn about the “lifecycle” of a product. The more expensive item might actually be cheaper in the long run because it lasts longer or uses less energy over time.

“Every major category of purchasing now has a green standard. Most office supply stores now offer an entire green product catalog,” Parker suggested.

“Use green cleaning products (many of which you can make yourself),” Kinch added. “These more benign cleaners improve the indoor air quality at work as well.”

A green employee is a happy employee. People want to work for a company that cares. Start an office green team that can spearhead sustainability efforts in your office and effect meaningful change.

“Creating a team of staffers to tackle energy efficiency within a business tends to get the greatest buy-in and results,” Kinch said.

Both Michigan Energy Options and Delta Institute can offer you more “eco” tips. Learn more online at www. michiganenergyoptions.org and www.delta-institute.org.

- BY ANN COOL

“Thinking green can create new products and services, increase a company’s profile with its clients and the community, retain employees and increase their satisfaction and improve other competitive advantages. It creates a winwin-win scenario: for the company, for

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the environment and for the community,” he said.

Of course, working with businesses is only one arm of Delta. But whether it’s businesses, government or community, Parker says the strategy remains the same.

COVER

“WE VIEW BUSINESS AS A CHANGE AGENT,” SAID PARKER. “BUSINESSES CAN PROVIDE LEADERSHIP IN SUSTAINABILITY, JOB CREATION AND COMMUNITY INVESTMENT.”

The Delta Institute and Public Sector Consultants teamed up to form the non-profit, Michigan Saves.

“Our approach is the same – pragmatic and collaborative, but the services we provide often differ. For businesses, we typically provide more technical assistance, whereas our work with government or communities often involves stakeholder engagement and consensus building around innovative strategies and programs that advance environmental sustainability and economic vitality,” said Parker. ”It is sometimes easier to work with businesses, as management has the authority to immediately green light a project. But our work in the public sector is where Delta earned its reputation as a

trusted advisor, convener, and solutions provider, and we are always happy to be of service to our government partners.”

With a mission that includes the words “market-driven” and “economic vitality” it’s clear that Delta believes strongly that businesses can win, while helping the environment and encouraging change across the board.

“We view business as a change agent,” said Parker. “Businesses can provide leadership in sustainability, job creation and community investment.”

For more on the Delta Institute visit www. delta-institute.org. For more on Michigan Saves visit www.michigansaves.org.

Emily Caswell is the Publications Director at M3 Group where she serves as managing editor of Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine and editor of the Greater Lansing Business Monthly.

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Detroit: How can we Help?

BY TIF FANY DOWL IN G

Editor’s note: The question of can Lansing truly succeed and recover without a successful Detroit is one that has many answers. It is a question many people would like to weigh in on. It is a question that is vitally important to the business community here in greater Lansing. With that in mind, The Greater Lansing Business Monthly is starting the conversation this month in this first piece.

But this is just the tip of the iceberg. Check back quarterly for updates on this topic. Have an opinion you’d like to share? Please contact Publisher Tiffany Dowling at tiffany@ m3group.biz.

T

o support Detroit or to not support Detroit — that is the question for the Lansing region and the rest of the state.

There is no denying that Detroit has many issues facing it and has for decades.

The pinnacle of its woes may have arrived when it sank into bankruptcy last year. With so many experts and news outlets reporting that Michigan’s comeback isn’t possible or is extremely slowed without the resurgence of Detroit, what responsibilities do outstate communities hold?

“Trying to compete economically with other states and countries without a strong Detroit is like being in a fight with one hand tied behind our back. Michigan is better off with a prosperous Detroit. Period,” said Jim Martinez, communications director of the Detroit Regional Chamber. “Since 2006, approximately $12 billion has been invested in commercial, industrial and residential properties in the city of Detroit.

Corporations, such as Quicken Loans and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, have added nearly 12,000 jobs in downtown Detroit over the past few years.”

In recent years communities like Lansing, Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor paved their own ways by focusing on each region’s assets separately and aggressively seeking economic development by internal and external companies. The Lansing region has been named to multiple lists indicating that its turnaround has been moving forward for several years. Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero agrees that each community needed to fend for itself in order to succeed but the big picture includes Detroit.

Detroit is part of a region that produces 75 percent of Michigan’s exports and is in good company with cities like Houston, New York and Los Angeles, but the city reputation and failing governmental oversight has hurt the prosperity of that region as well as out-state communities.

Fairly or unfairly, the State of Michigan is judged by the world’s knowledge of Detroit — good and bad.

According to the Detroit Regional Chamber, it benefits everyone in our state to support Detroit as the community is making progress with strong investment.

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“The stats would say that we didn’t wait on Detroit. We are judged by Detroit and in the short run, the sad reality is that we had to distinguish ourselves as ‘not’ Detroit,” said Bernero. “We had to insulate ourselves because bankruptcy does not instill confidence, but that is a short-term strategy.”

Competing with other states as the negative perception of Detroit weighs on decisions has been difficult, but not impossible according to Mayor Bernero.

He indicated that there had been hardfought wins for Lansing despite Detroit as the flagship city, as well as losses.

The long-term strategy, according to the Detroit Regional Chamber and the Mayor of Lansing, is to support the growth of Detroit through collaboration and understand that the resurgence of Detroit is happening and a positive perception of the embattled community as it turns around.

“Michiganders can support Detroit’s comeback by raising awareness

F E AT U R E

about the importance of Detroit to Michigan’s economic future. They can also voice their support of Detroit to representatives in Lansing and Washington,” said Martinez. “The assets of (the) region and Detroit far outweigh the negatives and have the city poised to emerge stronger from bankruptcy.

Lansing is a win for Detroit is a win for Traverse City is a win for Grand Rapids.”

Tiffany Dowling is the Founder and President of M3 Group, a full-service branding

agency located in downtown Lansing, Mich.

She is also owner and publisher of Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine and the Greater Lansing Business Monthly. Dowling has helped businesses and organizations with branding needs for more than a decade.

Learn more at www.m3group.biz.

“MICHIGAN IS BETTER OFF WITH A PROSPEROUS DETROIT. PERIOD,” SAID JIM MARTINEZ, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR OF THE DETROIT REGIONAL CHAMBER.

While it’s critical to share the positives of Detroit’s story, the most important component of winning the public relations battle is to fix the actual problems,” he added.

large

Mayor Bernero agrees. As the City of Detroit works through its problems and moves toward building a new era of growth and investment, he has reached out to the new mayor of Detroit, Mike Duggan and has given support.

“We’re working with Detroit, Flint and Ann Arbor on a designation for federal manufacturing assistance,” he said.

“Instead of competing with each other, we decided to do something similar to the Research Triangle and to get this key designation to Michigan.

Obviously, we do this because we have the utmost faith in Detroit as a region that will come back,” added Bernero.

The Detroit Regional Chamber echoes this sentiment. Regional collaboration is critical to continued economic development in the region.

“Global market forces don’t recognize political borders, and so Michigan must adopt a statewide approach,” said Martinez. “In the big picture, a win for

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F E AT U R E

Ingham County Land Bank: Greening up our Neighborhoods

BY KRIS TINE RICHMON D

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ocated on Hughes Road in southwest Lansing sits a home with a LEED gold certification.

Constructed and sold in 2010, the home utilizes solar passive design and features radiant heat floors, handicap accessibility, stained concrete floors and counters and SIP construction.

Some may find it hard to believe that the Ingham County Land Bank is responsible for this home. But in reality, the home is just one of the many ways the Ingham County Land Bank is going green in their effort to revitalize neighborhoods.

“We are working within the framework of the city, not using up natural resources to build new homes in areas where there wasn’t previous infrastructure,” said Jeff Burdick, executive director of the Ingham County Land Bank. “These are properties the general market didn’t see value in, so we get these properties back on the tax roll but in a responsible manner.”

The LEED-certified home in southwest Lansing was constructed and sold in 2010.

Serving as a strategic economic tool, the Ingham County Land Bank supports growth and investment within the

community. Their aim is to make properties into attractive housing options for individuals and families interested in

buying a home, which in turn, attracts good neighbors, protects property values and improves neighborhoods.

Land Bank Sales Drive Residents to Lansing The city of Lansing is becoming a popular place to live for those outside the region and state, according to data released recently by the Ingham County Land Bank. In 2013, 46 percent of the Land Bank’s single-family and owner-occupied property sales in the city of Lansing were to out-of-city and out-of-state residents.

The Land Bank driven influx to Lansing has picked up in recent years. From 2006 to 2011, a total of 18 Land Bank homes within city limits were sold to out-of-state and out-of-city residents — compared to 26 in the past year alone.

The Land Bank’s home sales last year totaled 60, up from 53 in 2012. Last year’s numbers will likely peak as inventories decline due to less available program dollars at the state and federal levels.

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F E AT U R E

The Land Bank approaches each of their construction projects with the environment, sustainability and re-use at top of mind.

“EVERY ONE OF OUR

GREEN PRACTICES

The Land Bank places an environmental emphasis on its home demolition and rehabilitation projects.

“When we have to demolish a house, we don’t just bulldoze it down and take it to a

landfill. It’s a federal requirement to go in and do asbestos removal. Prior to demolition, the Land Bank properties undergo rigorous structural and environmental evaluation.

These plans include soil testing, noise impact investigation, hazardous materials identification, abatement procedure and so forth,” says Burdick.

PROPERTIES RECEIVES AN ENERGY AUDIT TO DETERMINE ITS HERS RATING.”

Properties come to the Land Bank through the property tax foreclosure process.

Most of these properties are located in neighborhoods that have experienced significant decline. The Land Bank works to prevent neighborhoods from falling into further decline by buying, renovating and reselling properties in a given area.

As of the end of 2013, the Land Bank reports that of the 990 properties they own throughout Ingham County, 92 percent of these are in the city of Lansing and the majority of these are residential.

FUNDING

The activities of the Land Bank are supported by funding from Citizens Bank, Capital National Bank, PNC Bank, the HUD Neighborhood Stabilization Program (phases 1, 2 and 3) and the City of Lansing HOME funds, according to the Economic Impacts of the Ingham County Land Bank (2006-2012) report. The Land Bank receives property acquisition rights from the County.

Once the Land Bank obtains ownership of a property, they may choose to demolish a home if it’s badly deteriorated or, in many cases, they will invest their time, labor and construction materials in an effort to build or improve a house, which can then be purchased by an individual or family who has the intent of residing there. w w w

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Before demolition, environmental consultants like Triterra will assess a property for hazardous materials, especially asbestos and lead paint.

“We look for asbestos containing materials and any other hazardous materials that could be regulated for disposal such as mercury in thermostats, petroleum products, cleaning solvents, gasoline or florescent light bulbs,” said Don McNabb, chief executive officer and principal scientist at Triterra. Once the surveys are done, McNabb says “We assist the Land Bank with how to costeffectively deal with the materials.”

The properties the Land Bank redevelops must go through the same rigorous environmental assessment process.

“Every one of our properties receives an energy audit to determine its HERS rating. For all of our homes constructed

The home boasts many “green” features such as solar passive design and features radiant heat floors.

using Neighborhood Stabilization (NSP) funds, a minimum of a 5 star rating is required,” added Burdick. “We achieve these ratings by using energy efficient

water heaters, furnaces, appliances, extra insulation, etc.”

CLEANING UP THE ENVIRONMENT

FOCUSED ON YOUR AUDIENCE

The Land Bank is working toward being able to do full deconstruction of every home they demolish. They will soon begin a pilot project for full deconstruction of three homes on Grand River, a few blocks west of Old Town that are slated for demolition.

NEWS

“We have an agreement with Zero Day, a nonprofit that provides job training for veterans. They’ll go into the homes and pull out anything that can be salvaged, reused or can be sold. We expect the deconstruction to commence in the spring,” said Burdick.

MUSIC

The Land Bank’s revitalization efforts and their commitment to going green is impacting the environmental footprint of our communities for current and future Lansing area residents.

SPORTS

DRAMA Our viewers and listeners are Your community is tuned to WKAR

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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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F E AT U R E

Live Green Lansing: Promoting a Healthier Environment and Economy

BY KRIS TINE RICHMON D

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aunched by Mayor Virg Bernero and the Lansing Board of Water and Light, Live Green Lansing is a community initiative that promotes and supports environmental and economic health for all who live, work and play in Lansing.

“It’s a continuation of the Go Green!

Initiative which was launched in 2006 in response to the Kyoto protocol,” said Natalie Molnar, coordinator of Live Green Lansing.

“The Mayor wanted to get greenhouse gas emissions down in Lansing.”

Through the efforts of more than 15,000 businesses, schools and residents who took the Go Green! pledge, the city made tremendous progress in protecting water quality, reducing energy consumption and leading the way in recycling efforts.

Collectively, these efforts resulted in saving the greater Lansing area more than 30,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions per year, according to Live Green Lansing’s website.

Live Green Lansing is a comprehensive effort designed to promote adoption of green technologies and practices throughout the region’s communities, businesses and schools.

“Live Green is moving past the awareness phase and is focused on what we can do to promote sustainability in our community, not just the environment, but also jobs, businesses being successful and everyday people being able to use green technology,” explained Molnar.

Live Green Lansing’s community sponsors, many of whom have already implemented green practices, are the Board of Water and Light, CATA, Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, Lansing Community College, Lansing School District and the Greater Lansing Michigan Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The city of Lansing has implemented green sustainability practices like single stream recycling (CART). “These big bins are seeing recycling increase — (it’s) doubled since the city rolled them out last spring,” added Molnar.

“BWL already offers incentive programs for small businesses to upgrade their

facilities with energy efficient lighting, motors, refrigeration and HVAC systems,” said Molnar.

Lansing Community College is one of the first colleges in the nation to incorporate alternative energy into its curricula and to offer an associate’s degree in alternative energy engineering technologies, according to their website.

Live Green Lansing recently partnered with REACH Studio Art Center in REO Town on a sculpture project. “We heard about their community arts program and thought this project would be a great way for kids to create something to engage people when we go to events,” explained Molnar.

The sculpture will be made out of recyclable materials of the kids’ choice and will be unveiled on May 3 at the Adopt a River event, which is the annual cleaning up of the Grand River.

“The sculpture will show lighting from the first light bulbs with the filament to today’s LEDs,” added Molnar. “The kids are going to make it light up as well so it can go to next year’s Silver Bells.”

For more information about Live Green Lansing, visit www.lansingmi.gov/ livegreen or contact Natalie Molnar, Live Green Lansing Coordinator at livegreen@ lansingmi.gov or (517) 702-6597.

(top) 2013 Adopt a River clean up; (bottom) Solar electric vehicle charging station.

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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.

F E AT U R E

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L E G I S L AT I V E U P D AT E

News, Notes and a few Comments From the State Capitol

BY ROB BAYKIAN

LEGALIZATION OF SCALPING WOULD STILL COME WITH BUYER BEWARE WARNING

BUSINESSES: TAKE NOTE OF AUGUST BALLOT

B

There’s an important election day this year that a lot of people seem to have forgotten about, although many businesses have not. At the beginning of the year, a partial phase-out began for the Personal Property Tax for most Michigan businesses. In addition, new business personal property will be exempt beginning in 2016, as well as other exemptions in 2017. That’s the good news for business.

ack in my high-school-to-college years in the 70s, the group I hung with liked to go down to the old Olympia Stadium in Detroit to see the Red Wings play. Mind you, these were the days of the “Dead Things” (pre-Ilitch), the 50s glory days were only a distant memory, and then only for some of the fans. And while there were often walk-up tickets available at the box office, on some nights, when Guy Lafluer or Bobby Orr came to town, tickets were simply not available, unless you were patient and hung around on Grand River Avenue in front of the stadium. That’s where the entire secondary market existed for tickets. And that’s where we hung out.

Sometimes you got a deal, sometimes you had to pay through the nose and a few times you got tickets for free from some guy who didn’t want to miss the opening face-off. It was a system that worked, for us at least. And as I remember, we didn’t know the practice was a violation of state law or city ordinance. However, the practice of a private individual (with no agreement with a “team/venue approved” secondary market dealer) selling a ticket for more than face value indeed has been illegal statewide in Michigan, and while I’ve read about people being cited, I’ve never seen it myself.

Many now want to repeal the statewide ban on scalping, and a move is underway in the Michigan Legislature to do just that. All the usual “buyer beware” dangers remain in place, however. Don’t expect the seller to refund your ticket if it’s phony.

The “approved” resellers say they will provide a refund.

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The potential bad news is that in order to keep the phase-out in place, a proposal must be approved on this August’s ballot to override certain limits in the Michigan Constitution. If it doesn’t pass, local governments can’t be reimbursed (which was part of this whole deal), so the whole tax reform plan comes to a screeching halt. The current phase-out, which took effect January 1 exempts the first $40,000 of personal property for a business. The phase-out was signed into law in late 2012.

NOT ALL BUSINESS LEADERS ARE BAD

Michigan Small Business Association President Rob Fowler has a beef. A beef about the vilification of business leaders.

He admits there’s indeed some villains out there in a business world that is often consumed by greed, but adds that “I hate it that (those villains) become the face of business, but I can also name you dozens or hundreds of small business people who are the leaders of their community organizations. If it weren’t for a lot of those companies giving back, there wouldn’t be a viable nonprofit community in most cities and towns in the US.”

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

MARCH 2014

STATE’S EMERGENCY CARE RATING NOT SO HOT

A new report from emergency doctors says government support for emergency care went from bad to worse in Michigan between 2009 and today.

The report was released by the American College of Emergency Physicians. Michigan ranked 43rd in the country in 2009 and dropped to 46th place in this year’s report.

The state received an overall grade of D. The state did show improvements in the category of Quality and Patient Safety, but received a failing grade in the category of Access to Emergency Care. The report says that while the state has high per capita rates of emergency physicians, it has below average rates of specialists, such as orthopedists and hand surgeons; plastic surgeons; and ear, nose and throat specialists. In addition, Michigan lacks an adequate supply of psychiatric beds. As a result, the physicians group recommends more medical specialists in the state. The wide-ranging report also recommends a requirement that all motorcycle riders wear a helmet.

PLAYING THE LOTTERY ONLINE COULD BE NEAR

The Michigan Lottery is pushing hard on starting online wagering before the end of the year. The effort has already cleared one major hurdle.

The State Administrative Board has approved a $23 million contract with a Canadian firm, which will develop and

L E G I S L AT I V E U P D AT E

operate online wagering through the Michigan Lottery. Under the agreement, Pollard Banknote Limited of Winnipeg, Manitoba would develop and operate the system. The contract runs for five years.

Some legislators have opposed the idea of online lottery wagering, saying it would hurt the sales for regular lottery retailers and also worsen problem gambling. The Lottery Bureau says there will be safeguards in the system, including the ability to prohibit further wagering by those who reach certain thresholds.

The Lottery is going in this direction because a growing population in the US seems to want to do as much as possible over the internet, and it doesn’t want to be left behind, even though this is being done

only in a couple of states right now. But spokesperson Jeff Holyfield says online lottery playing is “the next logical step .... (for them) to stay competitive in the entertainment marketplace.”

Online lottery could start during the fourth quarter of this year. It’s not yet clear which games will be offered online.

REPORT MAY CHANGE PROPOSAL SYSTEM

BALLOT

My favorite tidbit of irony this month is that when the citizen initiated ballot proposal was first allowed in Michigan during the early part of the last century, the intent was to allow regular folks to have a hand it setting policy in the face of overt influence by special interests over legislators.

But Eric Lupher of the Citizens Research Council of Michigan, which recently issued

a report on the ballot proposal system in Michigan, says since those early days, things have completely flipped. He says these days special interests find it easier to work outside the legislative process and appeal directly to the people for a change through initiatives and constitutional amendments. Indeed we’ve seen outside groups funnel their big cash into state petition drives, often successfully.

I’ve also found it ironic that this includes checks cut by people who can’t legally vote in Michigan. So the CRC is recommending, among other things, to require more disclosure of just who specifically is funding those ballot issue campaigns.

Rob Baykian is director of news and operations at the 67-station Michigan Radio Network. He has been covering the Capitol since 1981.

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“

HE SAID, SHE SAID

“

He Said She Said

Each month The Greater Lansing Business Monthly invites authors from two views — one conservative, one liberal — to share their thoughts on a rotating topic. This month’s topic: What is your take on fracking?

Many of those poisons are left underground. The remainder must be recovered, stored, transported and disposed of safely. Our decadesold regulations no longer protect communities, water resources or first responders.

REGULATIONS MUST BE REVIEWED FOR TODAY’S FRACKING

By Chris Kolb

Some shortcomings are glaring. For instance, Michigan does not require disclosure of the chemicals used until it is too late for property owners or municipalities to conduct baseline water testing. Current regulations also make first responders jump through hoops to access information about chemicals that may have been spilled at the drilling site.

Without knowing what chemicals to test for, we can’t adequately protect wells, streams or public health.

of water each drilling operation requires.

Unfortunately, many of our mineral reserves sit beneath Michigan’s worldclass trout streams. Current regulations fail to ensure that headwater streams — and quality fisheries, the backbone of local tourism economies — are protected from operations that pump up to 1 million gallons a day, even when stream flow is at its lowest.

A performance audit of the Office of Oil, Gas and Minerals conducted in September 2013 by the state auditor general found that the agency: • Failed to inspect operations frequently

enough during drilling, operation and closure; • Failed to adequately document or

If you believe the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, hydraulic fracturing (fracking) for natural gas has been used for 50 years in Michigan without incident and we have nothing to worry about.

What they don’t tell you is how changes in the practice have outpaced regulation.

Earlier fracking operations typically used 50,000 to 80,000 gallons of fracking fluid — a mix of water, sand and chemicals.

Today’s operations use up to 21 million gallons. Chemical use has increased more than a hundredfold, from 2,400 gallons per well to more than 250,000 gallons in some instances.

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CHEMICAL USE HAS INCREASED

follow up on violations, with years sometimes elapsing between violations and agreements to resolve them;

MORE THAN A HUNDREDFOLD,

• Failed to assess fines for violations or

FROM 2,400 GALLONS PER WELL TO MORE THAN 250,000 GALLONS IN SOME INSTANCES.

It’s also reasonable to ask that oil and gas developers disclose where they plan to withdraw the 20 million or more gallons

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

MARCH 2014

provide documentation explaining why fines were not pursued; and • Failed to set surety bonds at an

appropriate level, with the average bond covering only 40 percent of the true cost to remedy problems.

Without regulations designed for today’s more intensive fracking, Michigan is putting its citizens and natural resources in harm’s way and falling behind other

HE SAID, SHE SAID

states and provinces that have updated their rules.

Chris Kolb is president of the Michigan Environmental Council, a coalition of more than 70 environmental, public health and faith-based groups that provides a voice for our natural resources at the State Capitol. An environmental champion in the legislature and a veteran of the environmental management field, Kolb was one of the legislature’s most consistent and vigorous defenders of clean water, clean air and public health during his six years as State Representative from the 53rd District (2000-2006). A graduate of the University of Michigan School of Natural Resources, Kolb also served on the Ann Arbor City Council for seven years in the 1990s.

That’s the story of hydraulic fracturing — American ingenuity at work to produce the energy for sustaining our quality of life while improving environmental and economic quality and supporting jobs.

• While fracking fluid contains small

Most have heard about hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. It’s a proven method for enhancing oil and natural gas production. It’s been used safely and responsibly in Michigan for more than 60 years in about 12,000 wells to access the energy stored in dense rock located thousands of feet below our state.

NEARLY 80 PERCENT OF

PRICE OF NATURAL GAS DROP

• Domestic energy production relieves

DUE TO MORE SUPPLY.

We’re a nation of know-how and inventiveness. We take great pride in this, and should.

American ingenuity continues to make our lives better — and those of others around the world — by making the things we need more accessible, affordable, cleaner, healthier and sustainable.

• Deep horizontal wells enable more

HOMES; MANY HAVE SEEN THE

NATURAL GAS TO HEAT THEIR

THE PAST THREE TO FIVE YEARS,

By Deb Muchmore

amounts of chemical additives, regulators have never found them to contaminate groundwater. Two reasons: Michigan’s strict requirements for proper well construction protect freshwater zones; and, the formations being targeted are thousands of feet down below aquifers isolated by impermeable rock. energy to be accessed, while requiring fewer wells at the surface. This minimizes the number of wells needed and consequently land use. It also limits the potential for surface spills.

MICHIGAN HOMEOWNERS USE

BY 15 PERCENT OR MORE OVER

AMERICAN INGENUITY AT WORK: HYDRAULIC FRACTURING IS SMART

There’s been plenty of hydraulic fracturing rhetoric, often misinformed or meant to dampen production. Some facts and perspective can help:

Fracking uses high-pressure fluid comprised mainly of water to crack open deep dense rock formations that contain natural gas and oil. Literally hair-like fractures enable hydrocarbons to travel to wells for recovery and shipment to refiners and utility companies. It typically takes just a few days to complete, and this one-time investment means energy ROI for the next 15 – 20 years. That’s smart and efficient business that yields big benefits for energy consumers.

Michigan ranks 15th in the nation for the amount of natural gas and oil produced here. Hundreds of small family-owned Michigan companies are in the business, supporting some 30,000 Michigan jobs.

Nearly 80 percent of Michigan homeowners use natural gas to heat their homes; many have seen the price of natural gas drop by 15 percent or more over the past three to five years, due to more supply.

our reliance on foreign sources, which often are nations that are hostile to the US Continued innovations already are underway to ease legitimate concerns associated with hydraulic fracturing.

That means consumers will continue to benefit from improved and more efficient production.

It’s vital we take the positive view and put this all-around smart American-made technology to work for our economic, social and environmental benefit. If we don’t, others around the world most definitely will.

Deb Muchmore advises, counsels and coaches individuals in corporations and associations on critical issues and strategies influencing the success of their businesses. A Michigan State University graduate, she is vice president of public affairs at Marketing Resource Group, a Lansing-based issue management firm, where she has served since 1988.

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R E G I O N A L R O TAT I O N

Quality of Life Innovations Further Economic Growth

BY TRACY MIL L ER

F

rom family owned and operated businesses to big corporations, Delhi Charter Township has continued to see economic growth over the past 25 years and continuously looks for innovative ways to attract new businesses and help existing ones to grow and thrive.

In November 2013, Delhi Township was designated a 5-star community by the University of Michigan-Dearborn’s Center for Innovation Research “iLabs,” whose primary purpose is to examine community-level factors that influence entrepreneurial growth, economic development and job growth. This designation serves to formally recognize that the Township’s placemaking and economic development efforts are successful.

Trail banners on Holt Road.

“We’re very pleased that Delhi Township has been recognized for its efforts to attract and support business development and entrepreneurship,” said Howard Haas,

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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

MARCH 2014

Executive Director of the Delhi Downtown Development Authority. “Doing so while continuing to enhance the quality of life in our community is a core commitment of Delhi Township and the Delhi DDA.” As evidence of the Township’s successful efforts, there were only 10 businesses located in the Aurelius, Jolly and Pine Tree Road area of Delhi Township in the mid-80s. That number now stands at 112, accounting for hundreds of jobs in our Township.

This area is home to Oakwood Executive Park which is owned and managed by Dart Development, whose continued economic development efforts with Delhi Township have led to the additions of XG Sciences, Inc., Zip Medical and TriCounty Regional Planning Commission, to name a few. Those successes, paired with major expansions in the Township from businesses like Leightronix and Two Men and a Truck, give the future of Delhi Township a positive outlook.

However, tax incentives and easy highway access are no longer the primary focus of business attraction and development.

Companies care about quality of life and a sense of place when determining where to initially set down roots or grow. They want to know what a community can offer their

R E G I O N A L R O TAT I O N

Dart Development office

Tracy LC Miller, AICP, is the Director of Community Development for Delhi Charter Township.

She is responsible for economic

development, planning, zoning, code enforcement , construction code permitting and associated staff. Tracy graduated, with honors, from Michigan State University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Urban and Regional Planning in 1996.

employees outside of the work environment as well as a qualified workforce to draw from.

With that in mind, Delhi Township has continued to focus on being a community where people not only like to work, but also want to raise their families. “Delhi Township is a great partner to work with on economic development projects.

The investment made by the community in things like trails, parks, infrastructure and the excellent school district make it easier to market our properties and are attractive to the clients we work with,� says Marsha Zimmerman, Marketing Manager for Dart Development.

The Farmers Market, Holt Hometown Festival, Music in the Gardens summer concert series, excellent schools and recreation opportunities help to give residents and businesses a strong sense of community. In addition, Delhi Township is focusing intently on the development of trails throughout the community, making it more walkable and attractive.

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What started with the Valhalla Trail has expanded to include the Sycamore Trail.

Together they create a connection from Holt to the south end of the Lansing River Trail at Jolly Road. Plans are currently being developed for a third trail segment which will link to the Holt High School.

Through innovative and progressive thinking, Delhi Township has become a destination for businesses. From an awardwinning school district to scenic parks and trails, community enhancement remains a top priority for Delhi Township and we are committed to ensuring the Township is attractive and ready for continued economic development.

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THE GLBM LIST

Greater Lansing Green Companies, Associations and Education Centers

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NAME

TYPE OF WORK

ADDRESS

ASTI Environmental

Environmental and Engineering Services

10448 Citation Drive

DR. Energy Saver-Lansing

Residential Energy Efficiency

2505 S. Waverly Ave.

Granger Energy Services

Disposal, Landfill Management and Recycling Services

16980 Wood Road

Inspired Green

Residential Environment Consultants

216 S. Bridge St.

Society of Environmentally Responsible Facilities

Building Sustainability Certification

1350 E. Lake Lansing Road

Starting Now, LLC

Sustainability Consultant

8767 Price Road

Triterra

Environmental Sustainability Consulting

1210 N. Cedar St.

Clean Water Action

Promote Clean, Safe and Affordable Water

2722 E. Michigan Av. Ste. 201

Delta Institute

Provides Market-Driven Solutions for Environmental Stability

600 W. Saint Joseph St. Suite 1G

Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association

Promote the Practices of Renewable Energy Sources

1635 S. Jefferson St.

Ingham County Land Bank

Neighborhood Revitalization

422 Adams St.

Live Green Lansing

Environmental Health for the City of Lansing

P.O. Box 13007

Michigan Energy Options

Assists Businesses and Homeowners with Energy Efficiency

405 Grove St.

Michigan Association of Environmental Professionals

Promoting Environmental Excellence

P.O. Box 4760

Michigan Environmental Council

Leading Michigan’s Environmental Movement

602 W. Ionia St.

Michigan Nature Association

Protecting Michigan’s Natural Heritage

326 East Grand River Ave.

Michigan Recreation and Park Association

Advocacy, Resources and Professional Development for Parks and Recreation

2465 Woodlake Circle Suite 180

Michigan Saves

Assists Businesses and Homeowners with Energy Efficiency

200 N. Washington Sq. Suite 300

Michigan State University - Be Spartan Green

Reducing Environmental Impact

468 Green Way

Michigan United Conservation Clubs

Conserve, Protect and Defend Michigan’s Resouces and Environment

2101 Wood St.

Michigan Water Environmental Association

Water Environment

5815 Clark Road

Mid Michigan Environmental Action Council

River Protection, Green Transportation, Land Use and Sustainability

406 Grove St.

Sierra Club-Michigan Chapter

Grassroots Environmental Organization

109 E. Grand River Ave.

Tri-County Regional Planning Commission

Planning for Transportation, Economic, Environmental and Land Use Services

3135 Pinetree Road

Wild Ones - Red Cedar Chapter

Environmental Education and Advocacy

2020 E. Mount Hope Ave.

Fenner Nature Center

Environmental Education Center

2020 Mt. Hope Ave.

Harris Nature Center

Nature Center

3998 Van Atta Road

Woldumar

Environmental Education Center

5739 Old Lansing Road

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

MARCH 2014

THE GLBM LIST

Each month, The Greater Lansing Business Monthly compiles a list relevant to the publication’s theme. The lists, unless otherwise noted, are in alphabetical order and are not comprehensive, but rather, a snapshot look at what is publicly available on various industries and organizations.

CITY

ZIP

PHONE

WEB ADDRESS

Brighton

48116

800-395-2784

www.asti-env.com

Lansing

48911

517-242-8038

www.drenergysaver.com

Lansing

48906

517-372-2800

www.grangernet.com

Grand Ledge

48837

517-321-4935

www.goinspiredgreen.com

East Lansing

48823

312-674-4860

www.serfgreen.org

Laingsburg

48848

517-775-2910

www.startingnowllc.com

Lansing

48906

517-702-0470

www.triterra.us

Lansing

48912

517-203-0754

www.cleanwateraction.org

Lansing

48933

517-482-8810

www.delta-institute.org

Hastings

49058

269-384-9915

www.glrea.org

Lansing

48906

517-267-5224

www.inghamlandbank.org

Lansing

48910

517-702-6597

www.lansingmi.gov/livegreen

East Lansing

48823

517-337-0422

www.michiganenergyoptions.org

East Lansing

48826

517-349-1970

www.maep.org

Lansing

48933

517-487-9539

www.environmentalcouncil.org

Williamston

48895

517-655-5655

www.michigannature.org

Okemos

48864

517-485-7932

www.mrpaonline.org

Lansing

48933

734-494-2190

www.michigansaves.org

East Lansing

48824

517-355-9038

www.bespartangreen.msu.edu

Lansing

48909

517-371-1041

www.mucc.org

Bath Township

48808

517-641-7377

www.mi-wea.org

East Lansing

48823

517-292-3078

www.midmeac.org

Lansing

48906

517-484-2372

www.michigan.sierraclub.org

Lansing

48911

517-393-0342

www.tri-co.org

Lansing

48910

Lansing

48910

517-483-4224

www.mynaturecenter.org

Okemos

48864

517-349-3866

www.meridian.mi.us

Lansing

48917

517-322-0030

www.woldumar.org

www.wildoneslansing.org

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W O R K F O RC E D E V E LO P M E N T

Employee Engagement: It’s all About Leadership

BY ROS S WOODS TOC K

E

mployee engagement is a challenge within most organizations. Recent surveys underscore the magnitude of the issue. Research conducted last year by the Gallup organization showed that 70 percent of employees are not engaged or actively disengaged in their work. Recent studies suggest the cost of disengaged employees to business in the United States exceeds $500 billion per year.

Research has also shown that the No. 1 driver that promotes engagement is the relationship between the employee and their manager. Improving communication skills and strategies of your management team is an important first step toward cultivating an environment in which engaged employees can flourish.

Engagement requires leadership at all levels of the organization. In fact, those who can have the greatest impact on engagement are leaders in the middle of the organizational chart. Here are five important steps to improve employee engagement: Communication. Employees need to clearly understand the mission, vision and values of the organization and how their role fits into that picture. Supervisors should be trained on how to hold frequent and often times candid conversations with their team members. Employees will value frank talk if it is honest and backed up with a genuine desire to be helpful.

Feedback – It’s a two-way street. Too often, leaders reserve feedback for the annual performance evaluation. That process is dreaded by managers and employees alike. To truly be effective, feedback needs to be provided in more frequent, informal conversations.

Supervisors should create a culture that encourages employees to provide their opinions, which should be backed up with a willingness to implement new ideas from team members.

40

Challenge your team. Encourage innovation and risk taking. Develop an environment where employees feel the freedom to challenge the status quo.

Help your team members understand the need to break out of their comfort zones and consider different approaches or experiences that will help them grow professionally.

Empower and get out of the way.

Giving up control absolutely terrifies many leaders. Your team members will grow and flourish if you allow them to carry out their project without micromanaging or second guessing their efforts. Empowerment does not mean giving up accountability.

It’s up to leaders to establish deadlines, monitor progress and provide feedback.

A foundation of trust. If you develop a culture in which leaders at all levels effectively communicate with their team members, encourage open, continuous feedback, challenge team members, empower, recognize and reward their accomplishments, you will build the essential foundation of trust on which employee engagement will flourish. Treat each employee as a valuable member

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

MARCH 2014

of the team. Follow these principles and you will develop more engaged employees who are fully involved in and enthusiastic about their work, and possess an emotional commitment to the organization and its goals.

Engagement isn’t something that will happen overnight. It also isn’t something that occurs as a result of lip service. You have to clearly communicate and live your organization’s values. Employees can see through insincere platitudes. It has to be real and sustained. If you’re willing to stick with that commitment, you’ll find an environment that is energizing, fulfilling, visionary and one that top talent will want to be a part of for the long haul.

Ross Woodstock is a credentialed coach at Kolt Communications, Inc. He specializes in executive coaching and leadership development. He is also a communications strategist working with clients on their marketing, public relations and advertising programs.

Borrow local.

From left: From left: Jane Sherzer, Vice President Commercial Loan Officer, Summit Community Bank; Mark Robinson, President, DeLau Fire Services; Christopher Nugent, Senior Vice President and Chief Lending Officer, Summit Community Bank

We did!

It’s important to me to establish relationships with people in our community. Chris and Jane feel the same way. We support each other as well as other local businesses. It’s a great partnership.

—Mark Robinson, President DeLau Fire Services

Borrow local. Bank local. Be local.

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C O N T I N U I N G E D U C AT I O N

The Evolving Role of Community Colleges in Economic Development

BY BO GARCIA

A

s our economy continues to evolve and change, so too must the dynamic role a community college plays in economic development. While no community college can be all things to all people, it can stimulate economic growth in a way few organizations can.

Lansing Community College (LCC) is doing just that.

LCC works diligently to remain relevant to our business community and strategic partners in many ways. As a community college our ability to create and deliver solutions to companies that help them face the challenges of the market place is critical to the economic vitality of our entire community — a charge Lansing Community College, and community colleges across the country take very seriously.

In a study conducted by the National Coalition for Advanced Technology Centers titled “Community Colleges and Economic Development,” college presidents reflected on how important it is for a college to have economic development as a prominent part of its mission. To achieve the colleges’ mission of contributing to economic development in their communities, presidents interviewed said they had to develop relationships and partnerships with business and industry, education and other groups.

Economic development experts also see community colleges as an integral and vital asset in their effort to attract, retain and grow industry.

Our community is fortunate to have LEAP as our regional economic development advocate. We are proud to support their efforts to attract and retain industry prospects by way of demonstrating our workforce development capacity.

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In great part, the resurgence of the US economy will be determined by its ability to support innovation and talent development. Community colleges are designed for such a purpose, via our ability to cultivate intellectual capital through our faculty, staff and students. We recognize that maintaining a close relationship with business and economic development stakeholders is germane to our own understanding of the marketplace and its value-drivers. Subsequently, Lansing Community College offers numerous and diverse resources to our industry partners.

Last year, the BCI delivered hundreds of professional development programs to companies and trained thousands of their employees. The following reflects our ability to support regional workforce development efforts:

One such program is The Business & Community Institute (BCI). As Executive Director of the BCI, my ultimate goal is to help companies within our region grow. At BCI, we achieve this goal by empowering each company to improve productivity, reduce operational inefficiencies and achieve long-term sustained profitability, leading to job retention and job creation.

• We have pre-screened and highly

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

MARCH 2014

• We understand the adult learner • We customize the solution • Our learners receive credentialing,

certificates or continuing education units qualified consultants

trainers/facilitators/

• We offer value-based pricing • We are a one-stop provider • We establish long-term relationships

C O N T I N U I N G E D U C AT I O N

FOSTERSWIFT.COM • We

share similar goals with industry and economic development stakeholders

It has been said, and it is true — education is economic development. While most community colleges were originally established to offer affordable, accessible and high-quality education, it was ultimately discovered that the mission was inextricably tied to the health of the community’s economy.

Keep your organization running smoothly Legal counsel that moves with you A PRACTICAL APPROACH TO:

Lansing Community College has, and will always, honor its diverse mission and unique role in regional economic development.

517.371.8100 Bo Garcia, MBA, MPA is the Executive Director of Business & Community Institute at LCC.

» » » » » » » » »

Business/Corporate Creditors Rights Employee Benefits Intellectual Property International Labor & Employment Litigation/Trial Real Estate Succession Planning

LANSING | FARMINGTON HILLS | GRAND RAPIDS | DETROIT | MARQUETTE | HOLLAND

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MAN ON THE STREET

M AN on the STR E ET How does your family go green?

COMP IL ED BY K YL E D O W L I N G

“We take all of our stuff to Meridian Recycling Center and we also turn the furnace and lights off when we are not home.”

Rick Bresnahan

“We separate our recycling, turn off lights and reduce our car use.

We like to try to walk or bike anywhere we can.”

Joshua Smith

“We recycle bottles and use biodegradable products.”

Hilary Adams

“We recycle almost everything and drop it off every two weeks.

We also like to keep our waste down to one garbage bag a week.”

Bill Kander

“Predominantly we try to recycle as much as we can and my family uses all energy-saving lights and have switched to watersaving faucets.”

Gaelle Bottex

“We do not buy bottled water anymore and take advantage of all local recycling opportunities.”

Karen McCloskey

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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

MARCH 2014

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INVESTMENTS

Estate Planning 101

BY ST EPHEN L . HICKS , RO GE R L . MI L L B RO OK, WI L L I A M L . FER R IG A N

T

he modern estate plan consists of a revocable living trust, pour-over will, durable powers of attorney for property, health care and mental health care. A slightly more complicated arrangement for tax planning would include the use of an A/B trust. Together these estate-planning instruments constitute a basic estate plan that is vital for the protection of your family. Each of these instruments is explained below.

REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST

A revocable living trust (a.k.a., intervivos trust) is a trust created by a living grantor (i.e., the person who creates the trust) that can be terminated or modified at any time and for any reason by the grantor, according to the AARP, Crash Course in Estate Planning. Upon the disability or death of the grantor, the trust becomes irrevocable. A trust (trustee) becomes the legal owner of the trust property and deeds, titles and financial instruments are amended to reflect this change in ownership structure. With very limited exception, there are no adverse tax consequences to transfers between a grantor and his or her revocable living trust.

Unlike a last will and testament, or for that matter dying without a trust or will (i.e., intestate), a revocable living trust does not have to be probated in any court. Probate is a court procedure required to settle an estate of a deceased person and transfer his or her property to beneficiaries of the estate, according to The Complete Book of Wills, Estates & Trusts. Unlike a trust, probate proceedings are a public record open for full inspection by anyone interested in the estate. Finalizing an estate is usually an extended process where a court exercises continuing legal jurisdiction for 46

a period of approximately nine months or longer.

A revocable living trust avoids the inefficiencies, costs and complexities of probate. Upon the disability of the grantor a successor trustee(s), previously chosen by the grantor, immediately and without court intervention is empowered to act in behalf of the trust. While the grantor is living but otherwise disabled, the successor trustee has a fiduciary duty (i.e., duty of fidelity) to the trust and the grantor to care for the trust property of the disabled grantor. The successor trustee is not permitted to convert the property of the trust to his or her own use or that of a third-party; instead, the trustee must fully maintain and account for the trust property for the benefit of the trust.

Upon the death of the grantor, the successor trustee(s) is required to pay all outstanding taxes of the estate and final expenses such as hospitalization, funeral, burial, etc. and account to all beneficiaries for the assets that constitute the trust.

These remaining assets are then divided per the instructions of the trust to the beneficiaries as indicated in the trust.

Beneficiaries can include people, trusts, charities, and other entities, at the full discretion of the grantor. At no time is court intervention required. All aspects of the trust, including its administration, are private and not otherwise open for public inspection. Further, the time involved in administering the estate is substantially reduced thus creating efficiencies and cost effectiveness.

Beneficiaries, especially family members, are not required to wait a substantial period of time, nor endure the cost and public scrutiny of the court system.

Similar to a traditional will, a revocable living trust is not designed to shelter

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estate taxes. For large estates of married persons an A/B trust should be seriously considered. An A/B trust is designed to capture the exemption for each spouse so as to effectively double the exemption.

For estates valued greater than (or approaching) the double exemption amount other trusts and testamentary instruments must be considered.

POUR-OVER WILL

A pour-over will is a testamentary instrument that instructs a probate court to pour-over any probate property (property that was not previous titled or otherwise placed in the trust or did not have a named beneficiary) to the trust for execution and distribution by the successor trustee of the trust, and not by the executor in probate court. A primary goal of the pour-over will is to lesson the time, cost and involvement of the probate court as much as possible. By lessoning the time, cost and involvement of the court, beneficiaries (often family members of the deceased) are able to receive the proceeds faster and with significantly greater remaining proceeds due to cost savings of trust administration over the process of probate.

A pour-over will is not to be confused with a traditional last will and testament that seeks to complete the distribution of the estate in the probate court with specific instructions as to whom is to receive probate property and when.

GUARDIANSHIP AND CONSERVATORSHIP FOR DISABLED OR MINOR CHILDREN

In a pour-over or traditional will provisions need to be made for the care of any disabled or minor child in the event

that both parents or existing guardians become disabled or die. In addition to other estate planning instruments, this is accomplished by the appointment of appropriate guardians and conservators in the will. The care at issue is two-fold: the custody of the child or children and the fiduciary responsibility for any financial or property assets of the child or children.

It is also highly recommended that a Special Needs Trust be created for the benefit of any disabled person. If you have a member of your family that is either physically or mentally disabled we encourage you to consult with an attorney familiar with Special Needs Trusts.

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DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY FOR PROPERTY

A durable power of attorney for property is an instrument that permits an agent

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INVESTMENTS

DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY FOR MENTAL HEALTH CARE

attorney is effective during disability while the pour-over will is effective upon death.

DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY FOR HEALTH CARE

(a.k.a., attorney-in-fact) to take specified actions in behalf of a disabled person who created the instrument. The power of attorney survives the disability of the person who created the instrument when it is fashioned as a “durable� power of attorney. Upon the death of the creator, the durable power of attorney is terminated or otherwise expires.

A durable power of attorney for property is useful to an estate (and therefore family members of a disabled person) in as much as it creates a mechanism whereby assets held outside the trust, inadvertently or intentionally (e.g., small bank accounts, vehicle titles, etc.), can be maintained, administered, disposed of, or possibly transferred to the trust during the disability of the creator. This instrument promotes enormous efficiencies and cost saving for families of a disabled person; specifically, it avoids probate or other court proceedings by family members seeking the power to maintain and control a disabled person’s property.

In matters of non-trust property, a durable power of attorney for property is therefore akin to a pour-over will; the only difference is that the power of 48

A durable power of attorney for health care is an instrument that permits an agent (a.k.a., attorney-in-fact) to take specified actions and to otherwise make medical and health care decisions on behalf of a disabled person who created the instrument. Without a durable power of attorney neither a physician nor a family member is permitted to take medical action or to otherwise make medical decisions once an individual is stabilized, until or unless a court appoints a guardian for the disabled person. Most families mistakenly believe that they have the legal authority because they are related.

Unfortunately, families have no more legal authority, absent a durable power of attorney or court order of guardianship, than a complete stranger. The process of securing guardianship in the courts is costly, time-consuming and frustrating.

This process can be completely avoided, and families can be spared the expense (in money and time), by executing a durable power of attorney for health care in advance of any disability.

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A durable power of attorney for mental health care is an instrument that permits an agent (a.k.a., attorney-in-fact) to take specified actions and to otherwise make mental health care decisions in behalf of a disabled person who created the instrument. Without a durable power of attorney for mental health care, neither a mental health practitioner nor a family member is permitted to take medical or psychiatric action or to otherwise make mental health decisions once an individual is stabilized, until or unless a court appoints a guardian for the disabled person. Most families mistakenly believe that they have the legal authority because they are related.

Unfortunately, as with a power of attorney for health care, families have no more legal authority, absent a durable power of attorney or court order of guardianship, than a complete stranger. The process of securing guardianship in the courts is costly, time-consuming and frustrating.

This process can be completely, avoided, and families can be spared the expense (in money and time), by executing a durable power of attorney for mental health care in advance of any cognitive disability.

Stephen L. Hicks, JD, MBA, MS, CPA and Roger L. Millbrook, JD, CPA/PFS, are Fee-Only Fiduciary Investment Advisers and principals of Siena Wealth Advisors. Both Hicks and Millbrook are law partners with William L. Ferrigan, JD, CPA at Ferrigan, Hicks & Millbrook, PLLC in Grand Ledge. Siena is recognized

by CPA Wealth Provider and Accounting Today Magazines as one of the Top Investment Advisory Firms in the United States. Siena is the only investment firm headquartered in Mid-Michigan to make the exclusive list. Siena advisers can be reached at info@sienainvestor.com.

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R E A L E S TAT E

What’s Ahead in Residential Real Estate

BY DE B BARNETT

B

efore getting into my specific predictions for greater Lansing real estate, I think it is important to review the overall environment. Real estate sales are driven by economic, demographic and emotional factors.

The labor force is growing in Michigan for the first time since 2006 and here locally GM is humming, our insurance companies are thriving and Michigan State University is a growing economic engine partly due to the new Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB).

Income growth in Michigan placed it No. 7 in the US last year.

Last year the state did not experience any outflow in population after 16 years of losses.

The volume of home sales locally were up almost 12 percent and statewide home sales growth ranked fifth in the nation.

The consumer confidence engendered by these kinds of statistics is a key contributor to real estate sales.

But what about predictions for 2014 in greater Lansing real estate?

DESPITE THE CONTINUING STRENGTH IN THE DREAM OF HOME OWNERSHIP, THE DEMAND FOR MULTIFAMILY APARTMENTS AND SINGLE-FAMILY RENTALS WILL REMAIN STRONG AND WILL FUEL INCREASES IN RENTS.

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Unit sales will increase at a more historical norm of about 3.8 percent.

The inventory of saleable property is constrained and new home builders are struggling to meet demand. Fewer foreclosures and distressed properties are coming to market and investor activity has declined. The fundamentals of new household formations and a relatively strong local economy will contribute to growth, however.

Average selling prices will increase, but not at the 11.9 percent pace of 2013. A rapid recovery of prices at the lower end of the Lansing market drove the average up last year. Some areas of greater Lansing actually declined modestly last year. Overall we expect prices to increase approximately 5 percent in 2014.

Mortgage interest rates will drift upward finishing close to 5 percent as the Federal Reserve begins curtailing its bond buying program. Even with continuing conservative lending standards and higher interest rates, credit worthy buyers should not be dissuaded from purchasing. Rates still remain at historical lows. Finding homes to purchase will be more of a damper.

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Rents will continue to rise. Some younger Americans and first-time home buyers have been left out of the housing recovery due to student loan debt and larger down payment requirements of lenders. Former homeowners who lost homes to foreclosure also put pressure on rental stock. Despite the continuing strength in the dream of home ownership, the demand for multifamily apartments and single-family rentals will remain strong and will fuel increases in rents.

Foreclosures and distressed sales will continue to slow as they did in 2013.

Rising home prices are keeping the ranks of newly delinquent low and banks have been doing a better job of modifying loans.

Overall, the real estate market in greater Lansing will remain healthy. Average selling prices are still well below the peak years of 2005-2006 and buyers still have an opportunity to enjoy price appreciation in the next few years. Sellers who were stuck in their homes during the downturn may now be able to move on with their lives.

Check back in 12 months to see how I did on these predictions. What I am sure of is that greater Lansing remains a great place to live and work and is at the heart of “Pure Michigan.”

Deb Barnett is the president and owner of Tomie Raines, Inc. The company was founded in 1977 and Barnett has owned the company since 2002. She began her real estate career in 1985 after attending Michigan State University and was an award-winning agent with two other local firms before joining Tomie Raines, Inc. in 1995. Barnett also owns TRI Title Agency and Tomie Raines Home Warranty Company.

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M A R K E T I N G S AV V Y

Five Tips for a Healthy Company Ecosystem

BY ROCHEL L E RIZZI

A

s business leaders, we, of course, think about being eco-friendly, but it’s more than a buzz-word for us.

I’m a big proponent of being green and I also know that without a healthy profit margin, our people will turn green, make no green and give no green! That being said, here are some ideas on how to be efficient within your own ecosystem in hopes that these best practices trickle out to the greater global good.

Below are five of my top tips for a healthy company environment and what drives our marketing strategies within the Rizzi Family of Businesses.

1 . Identify your core values. Our core

values were designed with the idea of getting us all on the same page several years back. We were a budding design firm, wanting to make a true go at it. Using our core values for having critical conversations, making strategic decisions, discussing partnership opportunities and meeting our goals laid out by our vision, we have been able to grow our business strategically to exceed our own expectations. We have five core values and come back to them with each and every decision we make. We use them as a checklist of sorts, in order to maintain our identity and our momentum.

2 . Open the books! Sharing information

about how your business makes or loses money will engage your employees on a higher level. Your people will act as a true team, well equipped to make sound business decisions along each step of the process. The transparency allows for leadership to blossom and trust to be paramount.

3 . Illustrate your vision. The delivery

needs to match its audience. Not

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unlike the “Reduce – Reuse – Recycle” posters we began to see so many years ago, create an infographic that clearly identifies the core values and offers a visual message of the company’s vision. Make it fun and measureable, at the same time being true to the company’s persona (its culture).

4 . Let your people know they are

your most valuable resource. I value my employees and their bigger picture as much as my own. We’re all trying to make a difference — to make our mark. I’m deeply vested in their success as we grow the companies together. We talk openly about why we do what we do. We have a lot in common — we love our families, we are deeply rooted in our community and we believe in focusing on our natural talents. In turn, our people use our irrational thought (creativity is an irrational process) coupled with our linear thought (strategy, vision and goals) to make solid decisions together.

5. Celebrate

every milestone, personal and professional.

The positive energy this exudes is contagious throughout our team. We work hard and have fun measuring each successful step together.

Eco-friendly leadership starts with a safe habitat for communication inspiring creativity, leadership and many celebrations to come!

Rochelle Rizzi earned her MBA from Michigan State University’s Broad College of Business. She is the CEO of Rizzi Family of Businesses, which incorporates her tenyear-old creative agency, Rizzi Designs,

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and unique event venue, Old Town Marquee. Rochelle has been married to her husband, Brian, for eleven years and they have four beautiful little boys ranging from 5 months to eight years.

They are residents of East Lansing and strong advocates of their beautiful state of Michigan, Michigan State University and their beloved mid-Michigan home.

Rochelle’s passion is strategy and culture and she’s excited to share what she’s learned as an entrepreneur, leader and successful business owner.

Make the Move that Works for You If you’re in the market to purchase or build a home, MSUFCU has the tools to help you reach your goals. We offer competitive rates and various loan options to meet your needs.

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BUSINESS CALENDAR

March 2014 BUSINESS EVENTS

3/4

ENCORE! 50+ EXPO, LANSING. Join LCC for their

second annual Encore! 50+ EXPO. This event will provide opportunities for adults, age 50+, to gain information on re-careering, fun and workshops on personal enrichment and interest, community involvement, healthcare and much more.

Visit LCC East from noon to 5 p.m. There is no cost to attend this exciting event, however, you must register as space is limited. Call (517) 483-1860 or visit www.lcc.edu/lifelong.com.

3/6

2014 ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS, LANSING. Join the

Greater Lansing Business Monthly and support local entrepreneurship by being a part of the 20th Anniversary of the GLBM Entrepreneurial Awards. We look forward to bringing a fresh perspective to the historic recognition of the courage and passion that entrepreneurs demonstrate everyday.

2014 Entrepreneurial Awards will be held at the U Club, located at 3435 Forest Road. A social hour will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. and the awards program will begin at 7:15 p.m. Tickets are $100/ person, $1000/Corporate table of 8, or $700/Past-honoree table of 8. Call (517) 203-3333 or visit www.lansingbusinessnews.com/ entrepreneurial-awards.

3/11

MARCH MEMBER MIXER, LANSING. LaFille

3/12

SPEED READING, LANSING. Do you want to double,

3/18

LEGISLATIVE DINNER 2014, EAST LANSING. The

3/18

BASIC SUPERVISION, LANSING. Acquire the

Lansing Regional Chamber’s Legislative Dinner unites Michigan’s local Chambers and their key business leaders with legislators and state Chamber officials for an evening of networking and spirited discussion. The Legislative Dinner 2014 will be held at Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center, located at 219 S. Harrison Road, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The cost for this evening of networking is $80/person or $630/table of eight. Call (517) 853-6457 or email mrahl@lansingchamber.org.

skills that every supervisor must have: delegating, motivating and praising, delivering criticism and discipline, working under pressure, meeting tight deadlines, training new employees, and organizing people, projects and schedules. If you are in a new supervisor role or if you just want to learn some new techniques, this seminar is for you. This one-day seminar is being held at Ramada Lansing Hotel and Conference Center, located at 7501 W. Saginaw Highway. Registration is from 8:30 to 9 a.m. and the seminar is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost is $149/person. Visit http://events.pryor.com/285411.

3/19

Gallery, located at 336 E. Michigan Ave., will host the Lansing Chamber’s March Member Mixer from 5 to 7 p.m. Come and network with fellow members at this event. Call (517) 8536457 or email jwagemann@lansingchamber.org for more information.

even triple your reading rate? Even if you consider yourself a slow reader, the time-tested Evelyn Wood method will work for you. Discover separate, unique strategies; deepen your understanding of whatever you read; enhance your ability to listen, learn, study, research and write; learn how to take rapid abbreviated notes; and best of all, spend less time reading and absorbing. This one-day program is being held at Best Western Plus Lansing Hotel, located at 6820 S. Cedar St. Registration is from 8:30 to 9 a.m., with the program running from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost for this program is $99/person. Visit www.pryor.com.

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EXPORT 201: EXPORT CONTROLS – THE UPDATED GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS YOU NEED TO KNOW, EAST LANSING. Are you up-to-date? Export

control regulations have changed, and your company needs to be compliant. Does your product require an export license?

How do you know? Where can you check? Which government office oversees this and who can you contact with concerns?

Our guest speakers include Karen di Benedetto, Senior Export Compliance Specialist, Bureau of Industry & Security and Ron Orzel, Special Agent-in-Charge, Office of Export Enforcement (BIS). Karen and Ron will walk you through the changes to the old regulations and show you how to comply with the new. Time will be allotted for questions. From the President and CEO to the shipping clerk, everyone is responsible for compliance with regulations. This workshop is ideal for current exporters as well as new exporters. This informative session takes place at the MSU Henry Center for Executive Education from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The cost of this session is $35/person or $15/student. Visit www. michiganbusinessnetwork.com.

BUSINESS CALENDAR

3/22

80S FLASHBACK FUNDRAISER, LANSING. Join

Captial Area Womens LifeStyle Magazine as they host the raddest party in town, the 80s Flashback Party benefitting Lansing Promise H.O.P.E at the U Club, located at 3435 Forest Road. Gather your friends, rat your hair and dance the night away with StarFarm, as they perform all of your favorite 80s cover songs. Advance tickets are $30/person or $50/ couple. Call (517) 203-3333 or visit www.cawlm.com.

3/25-26

FUNDAMENTALS OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT, LANSING. In this two-

day seminar, you will learn that there is more to being a project manager than meets the eye: Knowing the “hard” skills of project management (planning, scheduling, budgeting and all the rest) is only half of it. The other part of the job — and often the most challenging for newcomers — requires proficiency in such critical areas as communication, team building and leadership. This course will provide in-depth instruction to help you become a disciplined, well-organized and highly effective project manager. Gain some valuable skills at this seminar being held at Best Western Plus Hotel, located at 6820 S. Cedar St. Registration is from 8:30 to 9 a.m. with the program following from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days. The cost for this seminar is $299/ person. Visit www.careertrack.com.

4/8

APRIL MEMBER MIXER, LANSING. MLive, located at

108 S. Washington Square, will host the Lansing Chamber’s April Member Mixer from 5 to 7 p.m. Come and network with fellow members at this event. Call (517) 853-6457 or email jwagemann@ lansingchamber.org for more information.

4/9

TRANSITION SUPERVISOR,

TO EAST

LANSING. Make sure that you are 100

finesse across job levels, developing your personal leadership style and disciplining and correcting problem behaviors. Check in begins at 8:30 a.m. and the seminar runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fee is $179/ person. Call (800) 258-7246 or visit www.nationalseminarstraining. com to register and for exact location information.

4/11

ANNUAL CONFERENCE, LANSING. The American

Society for Public Administration Michigan Capital Branch will host their annual conference, “Rethinking Michigan’s Urban Center.” This year’s conference will be held at Cooley Law School’s Temple Center, located at 217 S. Capitol Ave., from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost for the conference is $20/students, $40/ members, and $45/non-members. Students who choose the no food option can attend the conference free of charge. Visit http:// www.mipaforum.org.

4/22

CONNECTIONS AND COFFEE, LANSING. The Greater

Lansing Business Monthly and the University Club of MSU host Connections and Coffee on Tuesday, April 22 at the U Club (room TBD). Enjoy a light breakfast, fresh, delicious coffee and the chance to start your morning off right by networking. Event is free, please email virginia@m3group.biz to register.

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MSUFCU HOSTS GRAND OPENING OF CHARLOTTE BRANCH Michigan State University Federal Credit Union was pleased to host a grand opening celebration at its Charlotte Branch on Tuesday, Feb. 4.

The Charlotte Branch is a result of a merger that was completed with Eaton County Educational Credit Union in April 2013. After the merger, the branch underwent a remodel to match the MSUFCU style and brand.

All of the employees from the ECECU branch, along with some new employees, are still at the newly remodeled branch.

The Charlotte Branch is a full-service office offering all services previously available including drive-up and walk-up

ATMs, drive-up tellers, mortgage loan services, and a night depository. Visit www.msufcu.org for more information.

CAWLM AND AT&T DONATE $15,000 TO LANSING PROMISE Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine (CAWLM) and AT&T recently presented the Lansing Promise with a check for $15,000.

This donation will help support Lansing graduates in their pursuit of higher education. Thanks to the CAWLM ‘80s Flashback Fundraiser, AT&T was alerted to this worthy cause and worked with CAWLM to secure the funds for the Lansing Promise. The money recently donated represents the donation to the

CAPITOL NATIONAL BANK EMPLOYEES PRESENT THE BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS DONATION

2013 event and an advanced donation for the 2014 event.

This year’s CAWLM ‘80s Flashback Fundraiser is set for Saturday, March 22, 2014 at the University Club of Michigan State University. CAWLM will partner again with AT&T this year to support the Lansing Promise.

The Lansing Promise Scholarship is an award promised to graduates of public and private schools within the Lansing School District boundaries.

It provides the financial assistance necessary to obtain a two-year degree or its equivalent at an eligible school. The Lansing Promise promotes education and prepares students for future success.

CAPITAL REGION COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ELECTS NEW EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, BOARD MEMBERS The Capital Region Community Foundation is pleased to welcome incoming Board of Trustees Chair Denise Schroeder, Regional Director, Alerus Schroeder Retirement Solutions; Chair-Elect Kira Carter-Robertson, President and CEO, Sparrow Specialty Hospital; Secretary John Abbott, president of Summit Community Bank; and Treasurer Andy Hopping, community representative.

CNB Employees presenting check to BBBSMCR.

Employees of Capitol National Bank (CNB) presented the Big Brothers Big Sisters Michigan Capital Region (BBBSMCR) with a $2,403 check on Feb. 11 after a fundraising effort that has been taking place over the last several months.

Capitol National Bank employees raised money for BBBSMCR by participating in a Friday “jeans day” promotion through which participating employees paid $5 to wear jeans to work. Employees also raised $903 by participating in the BBBS Bowl for Kids Sake event. Each year, employees of CNB participate in various activities to support a different charity selected by CNB’s Nonprofit Committee.

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Additionally, the Community Foundation welcomes Michael Flowers, Rachel Lewis, Rachel Michaud, Joe Pray and Jack Roberts to the Board of Trustees.

Robertson Each was elected to serve a three-year term on the Community Foundation’s Board.

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1-800-282-3326 | deanblackcar.com w w w

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CHAMBERS USA 2014 RECOGNIZES WARNER NORCROSS AS LEADING MICHIGAN LAW FIRM For the 12th consecutive year, Warner Norcross & Judd LLP has been recognized as one of the leading law firms in Michigan by Chambers USA 2014.

Warner Norcross was ranked as one of Michigan’s leading law firms in the areas of banking and finance, corporate, mergers and acquisitions, employee benefits and executive compensation, and commercial

litigation. Additionally, 10 attorneys were recognized individually for their work in the above areas, as well as bankruptcy.

fight childhood obesity by presenting free fitness assemblies for local elementary school second and third graders.

Chambers USA is published annually by London-based Chambers and Partners and highlights top firms and attorneys in each state. To learn more, visit www.wnj.com.

Paul Nagel, co-owner of The Institution, visits different elementary schools in the Lansing School District during the week to train second and third grade students. The Institution also offers a free session at the studio at 216 S. Washington Sq., from 11 a.m. to noon every Saturday for children ages 6-12.

LOCAL FITNESS STUDIO PROVIDES FREE FITNESS FOR KIDS The Institution, a new fitness studio in downtown Lansing, is on a mission to

LANSING REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES RECIPIENTS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE, OUTSTANDING SMALL BUSINESS AND LEGACY AWARDS The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2014 Annual Dinner awards: Michael G. and Deborah L. Harrison have been named recipients of the Community Service Award; Harvest Creative Services and Stony Point Communications have been named co-winners of the Outstanding Small Business Award; and PNC Bank has been chosen as the recipient of the fourth annual Chamber Legacy Award.

All three awards were presented during the 2014 Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner, held Thursday, Feb. 20 at the Michigan State University Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center.

The selection of Michael G. and Debra L. Harrison for the distinguished Community Service Award marks just the second time in the history of the award that a couple has been selected as the recipients (Jud and Louise Werbelow in 1997). Michael Harrison has enjoyed a distinguished legal career including 24 years as an Ingham County Circuit Court Judge (chief judge 1980-1991), and currently serves as a senior attorney for Foster, Swift, Collins, and Smith P.C.. Among his extensive community and professional contributions, Michael served as president of the Lansing Sesquicentennial Foundation Board of Directors and has been active in the Rotary Club (president), Boy Scouts of American Chief Okemos Council Executive Board (president) and the United Way. Debra Harrison has enjoyed a distinguished career as a community volunteer. She was a founding member for the Wharton Center Inner Circle

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For more information call (517) 512-1554.

and helped pull together the Women’s Interest Group, which provided a professional network for women in the community.

As a breast cancer survivor, she helped establish in the Sparrow Foundation the Deborah L. and Michael G. Harrison Endowment for Mammography that pays for mammograms for those who cannot afford them, as well as research, education and equipment related to breast care health.

Since 1982, Harvest Creative Services has been offering clients creative branding solutions through strategy, writing, video, music and design. Steve Curran, president and creative director, and his partner Mark Miller are the creative geniuses behind some of the most well-known local and national ad campaigns.

Stony Point Communications is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2014. Owners Anne Harcus and Mark Holoweiko sat down at the kitchen table in December 1994 to sketch out a plan for launching a new kind of strategic public relations and marketing agency. Harcus and Holoweiko organized their agency on a network model which means at its center would be their home-based offices and those of other employees, knit together by a virtual private network.

It was designed to be a small, low-overhead operation, yet capable of delivering national caliber creative services at a moderate cost.

As one of the longest serving members of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, PNC Bank has a proud history of serving the Chamber and the Greater Lansing region. The original bank formed in 1892 and was known as American State Savings Bank. The PNC brand was introduced to the greater Lansing region in 2008 when PNC acquired National City Corporation. Today, PNC has 66 retail branches and ATM machines within a 17-mile radius of downtown Lansing.

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Jim Schmelter PNc Wealth maNagemeNt Vice PreSideNt, SeNior relatioNShiP maNager mid michigaN

PNC WEALTH MANAGEMENT At PNC Wealth Management, we know that integrity and transparency are critical to building trust. It’s why every action is taken with your best interests in mind. That means offering you open access to the market’s top performing managers and best-in-class products to help you achieve your short-term goals, and your plans for the future. Whatever your needs, from wealth planning to trust management to business succession, discover how our vast resources can help you live achievement.

Call (517) 334-1713 or visit pnc.com.

the PNc Financial Services group, inc. (“PNc”) uses the service marks “PNc Wealth management”, PNc institutional investments” and “hawthorn PNc Family Wealth” to provide investment and wealth management, fiduciary services, Fdic-insured banking products and services and lending and borrowing of funds through its subsidiary, PNc Bank, National association, which is a member Fdic, and uses the service marks “PNc Wealth management and “hawthorn PNc Family Wealth” to provide certain fiduciary and agency services through its subsidiary, PNc delaware trust company. PNc does not provide legal, tax or accounting advice. investments: Not Fdic insured. No Bank guarantee. may lose Value. w w w . L a n s i n g B u s i n e s s N e w s ©2012 the PNc Financial Services group, inc. all rights reserved. Bank deposit products and services provided by PNc Bank, National association, member Fdic

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HAYES GREEN BEACH WELCOMES NEW PLASTIC SURGEON

and Microsurgery in Louisville, Kentucky.

Learn more at www.hgbhealth.com.

GREATER LANSING CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU ANNOUNCES 2014 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Hayes Green Beach Memorial Hospital is pleased to welcome James Clarkson, M.D., as its new plastic and hand surgeon.

REHMANN ANNOUNCES PROMOTION

The Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau is proud to announce its Board Officers for 2014, including newly elected members, Bryan Johnson and Rebecca Selesky. The complete roster is listed below:

Dr. Clarkson has joined HGB’s Breast Care Center where he will perform breast reconstruction surgery. He also specializes in hand and wrist surgery, as well as skin cancer treatment, facial trauma, body contouring, breast augmentation and reduction.

Dr. Clarkson is currently an assistant professor of surgery through the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. He received his medical training at the London Hospital Medical School and the University College in London, England.

He had several plastic surgery residencies throughout England and Scotland. Dr. Clarkson is fellowship trained through the Christine M. Kleinert Institute for Hand

Marie Shebuski, ERPA, QPA, QKA has been promoted to Principal at Rehmann, a CPA, wealth management and corporate investigation firm. Shebuski is a member of Rehmann Retirement Builders and has provided retirement plan strategies for over 25 years.

Shebuski’s range of services extends from plan design, plan set-up and conversion, and annual administration to the plan termination process. Shebuski earned a bachelor of science degree in management from Cornerstone University.

For more information visit rehmann.com.

Barry Freed, Chair; Art Craft Display, Inc. Dorothy E. Maxwell, Vice-Chair; Max Weingar Group

Mike Rice, Secretary-Treasurer; Lansing Quality Suites Hotel

Mark Alley; Emergent BioDefense Operations Lansing, LLC Cindy Bowen; Crowne Plaza Lansing West

ENTREPRENEURS UNITE GREATER LANSING BUSINESS MONTHLY PRESENTS THE 2014 ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS DATE Thursday, March 6, 2014 SOCIAL HOUR 6 to 7 p.m.

Support local entrepreneurship by being a part of the

AWARDS PROGRAM BEGINS

20th Anniversary of the

7:15 p.m.

GLBM Entrepreneurial

ADDRESS The University Club 3435 Forest Road, Lansing

Awards.

TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE AND AT THE DOOR - $100 www.lansingbusinessnews.com/entrepreneurial-awards 60

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Thomas M. Collins; Traverse City Leasing, Inc. Kellie Dean; Dean Transportation/ Dean Trailways

Brian McGrain; Ingham County Straus Commissioner

Eric Sudol; East Lansing Marriott at University Place

Bryan Johnson; Radisson Hotel Lansing at the Capitol

Maner Costerisan is also proud to announce the recent promotions of Josh Korson, CPA, Kyle Schafer, CPA and Sarah Quain, CPA.

Korson joined the firm in 2010. Over the years, he has worked his way up from intern to manager. As a manager, Korson specializes in providing audit services for the firm’s forprofit, school district, governmental and affordable housing clients.

Rebecca Selesky; Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center PROMOTIONS AT MANER COSTERISAN Maner Costerisan recently announced the promotions of Matthew C. Latham, CPA, Kristy L. Moore, CPA and Jeffrey L. Straus, CPA. Latham joined Maner Costerisan in 2006. As a senior manager in the firm’s tax department, he specializes in working with closely held businesses in minimizing Latham tax liability and maximizing business growth and value.

Moore

Moore has been a part of the firm’s team since 2006.

As a senior manager in the audit department, she specializes in affordable housing and employee benefit plan audits.

Straus began his career at Maner Costerisan in 2006. He worked his way up from a staff I position to his current position of a senior manager. Straus’ current role is in the audit department where he performs attestation work, as well as provides traditional audit and agreed upon procedure services.

He works primarily with nonprofit and governmental organizations.

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Schafer, previously a senior accountant, began his career at Maner Costerisan in 2009. As a manager, he provides assurance and attestation services for not-for-profit organizations, closely held businesses and governmental entities.

Kohrman worked most recently at the Michigan Department of Human Services. Prior to that he worked in the office of the Governor and as the Director of Communications for the Michigan Department of Transportation.

Quain began her career at Maner Costerisan in 2010. In her role as manager, she provides audit services to not-for-profits, employee benefit plans, governmental entities, school districts and construction companies.

For more information, michiganfitness.org.

For more information, visit www. manercpa.com.

FOSTER SWIFT ANNOUNCES 2014 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE The law firm of Foster Swift Collins & Smith, PC elected its officers for the 2014 executive committee.

The officers include President Michael Sanders, Vice President for Lansing James Jensen, Vice President for Southeast Michigan Bruce Vande Vusse, Vice President for West Michigan Michael Homier, Treasurer Benjamin Price and Secretary Brent Titus.

Foster Swift Collins & Smith, PC is a full service law firm founded in 1902.

The firm employs 95-plus attorneys and more than 100 support staff in five locations; Lansing, Detroit, Farmington Hills, Grand Rapids and Holland. For more information about the firm, its attorneys and

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GREATER LANSING CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT ELECTED PRESIDENT OF EVENT SERVICE PROFESSIONALS ASSOCIATION

MICHIGAN FITNESS FOUNDATION ADDS NEW COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR The Michigan Fitness Foundation and the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports welcomes Ben Kohrman as the new Director of Communications.

visit

The Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau (GLCVB) is pleased to announce Senior Vice President Julie Pingston, CMP, CTA, has been elected President of the Event

Pingston

to access recent publications, visit www.fosterswift.com.

Sanders

Jensen

Vande Vusse

Price

Pingston has been at the Greater Lansing CVB for 21 years and works with the Bureau’s overall organizational operations with direct oversight of convention services, Sports Authority, membership and special events. She has also provided leadership to ESPA through a variety of roles including as the 2014 Annual Conference Chair.

For more information, visit www. espaonline.org.

THE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY EMPOWERMENT CENTER AWARDED $10K GRANT TO SUPPORT IMATH AFTERSCHOOL LEARNING PROGRAM The Information Technology Empowerment Center (ITEC) recently announced it was awarded a $10,000 grant from the R. E. Olds Foundation to support and expand its innovative afterschool mathematics learning program, iMath.

The program, now in its second year, seeks to improve both enthusiasm and aptitude in math. Offering afterschool math tutoring to fourth to sixth grade students in Lansing’s upper elementary schools, ITEC’s iMath program uses a web-based, adaptive tool to help students learn and practice math concepts. Students from Michigan State University serve as tutors and mentors, guiding students and challenging them to excel.

Last year, students who had 80 percent attendance showed a grade level increase of 0.84 with some as high as 1.15.

Surveys of the kids before and after their time in iMath showed improvements in attitude, too.

ITEC is a nonprofit, collaborative partnership of community, education, business, and government working with students and families in the capital

Titus

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Service Professionals Association (ESPA). Pingston’s term began in January at the ESPA Annual Conference held in Boston, Massachusetts.

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region to build excitement for coursework and careers in science, technology, engineering and math. ITEC’s vision is to enable Lansing area residents to acquire flexible, transferable technological skills that will allow them to participate in a fast-paced global economy.

LIFE INSURANCE ASSOCIATION OF MICHIGAN UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT As a result of the recent retirement of its President, the Life Insurance Association of Michigan (LIAM) has restructured the management and

operational aspects of the organization.

Under the newly-created structure, the Association will now be managed

by Traci Riehl of Riehl Solutions, with Jim Miller of Governmental Consultant Services Incorporated (GCSI) being retained to handle issue advocacy for the life insurance industry association.

MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION NAMES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Karen Burgess, M.B.A., CAE, has been named CEO/executive director of the 5,500-member Michigan Dental Association. Burgess has 25 years of experience in Burgess health care and association management. She joins the Okemos-based association after 17 years with the American Dental Association, most recently as senior director of membership marketing and member services. Burgess becomes the fifth executive director of the Michigan Dental Association, the oldest professional association in Michigan, founded in 1856.

A native of Illinois, Burgess holds a B.A. in psychology from Illinois State University, and an M.B.A. in marketing from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

For more information go to www. smilemichigan.com.

THE THERAPY INSTITUTE CELEBRATES 25 YEARS Founded in Haslett in 1989 as an outpatient physical therapy private practice clinic, The Therapy Institute is now marking their 25 year anniversary.

Founded by Casey Kern PT, the physical therapy practice is the second oldest private practice in Lansing and the oldest operating under one name. They provide outpatient orthopedic physical therapy services to the greater Lansing area. Partners now include Casey Kern, Chris Strickler and Steve Houghton. w w w

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MAYOR BERNERO, COMMUNITY LEADERS ANNOUNCE BRAND NEW SUMMER EVENT COMING TO LANSING

Grand American Fish Rodeo, a brand new event that will be held along the shores of the Grand River in Lansing.

The first Grand American Fish Rodeo will be a group of several simultaneous events held over the course of three days, June 12-14, 2014, along the path of the Grand River in downtown Lansing.

Club Manager (CCM) from the Club Managers Association of America (CMAA).

John Brown, Vice President of Public Policy and Communications for Jackson National Life Insurance Company, as well as the President of Brown the Association and Chair of the Board of Directors of LIAM, expressed satisfaction with the move to contracted services.

and is a veteran of the United States Air Force.

Grannemann was approved by CMAA’s C e r t i f i c a t i o n Committee after successfully passing a comprehensive c e r t i f i c a t i o n Grannemann examination and fulfilling prerequisites in club management experience, club industry education and association activity. The exam is prepared and administered under the direction of the Certification Committee at various college and university sites across the country. She joins more than 1,500 club managers worldwide who have achieved this hallmark of professionalism.

Their new office is located in Old Town at 1217 Turner, Lansing, MI 48906.

Their phone number remains the same: (517) 482-7058.

CMAA is the professional association for managers of leading private country, city, yacht, athletic, military and fraternal clubs in the US and abroad.

Riehl Solutions is a full service nonprofit and association management company providing conference management, training program development and facilitation services. Riehl Solutions partners with clients to meet their objectives and strengthen their organizations.

Gradall Industries, which designs, manufactures and supports Vacall products, recently announced that Southeastern Equipment Company was named the top performing Vacall dealer in the United States.

Terry Terry, Co-Founder and President of the Michigan Institute for Contemporary Art (MICA) was joined by Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero and Jack Schripsema, President of the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau to announce the first

Miller was President and Chief Executive Officer of the Michigan Insurance Coalition before joining GCSI in 2008. Prior to that, he served as a lobbyist for the influential 240,000-member Michigan Farm Bureau. Miller owned and operated Miller Orchards and Produce in Coloma, Michigan, from 1978 to 1998, and also served as the President of the National Peach Council prior to becoming active in the legislative advocacy arena. Miller is a graduate of the Michigan State University Kellogg Leadership Program 64

See grandamericanfishrodeo.com or call 517-371-4600 for more information.

SOUTHEASTERN WINS VACALL AWARD

The “Top Sales 2013” award was presented at the annual training meeting, held in New Philadelphia, OH at Vacall’s headquarters.

For more information, visit their website at www.southeasternequip.com.

GRANNEMANN EARNS CERTIFIED CLUB MANAGER DESIGNATION Karen Grannemann, CCM, Chief Operating Officer and CEO/GM Designee at the University Club of MSU, achieved the designation of Certified

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Grannemann has been with the University Club since 1996 and has held the positions of Membership Director, Director of Business Operations and Chief Operating Officer. In March 2013, she was named CEO/General Manager Designee and will assume the role of CEO/General Manager in July, following the retirement of current Club GM, Richard Bruner.

The University Club of Michigan State University has an 84-year tradition as a year-round center for business, dining, fitness, recreation, and golf at Forest Akers Golf courses. The Club offers a service-rich tradition of fabulous dining and entertainment, flawlessly executed meetings and events, leisurely tennis, swimming and golf, and a world-class fitness center and spa. Memberships in this award-winning private facility are available to all.

progress in motion At AT&T, we believe in sustainable momentum.

That’s why our products such as Telepresence are designed to help our customers reduce their travel-related environmental footprint. That’s why we’ve committed to deploying 15,000 alternative fuel vehicles through 2018. That’s why our customers can make smarter, more sustainable choices with the new AT&T Eco Rating system.

Learn more about how we’re setting progress in motion at the AT&T EcoSpace: www.att.com/ecospace.

© 2014 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. w w w

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4

consecutive periods of retail growth

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million sq. ft. of leased industrial space

96.8% occupancy in Class A CBD office space

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Part of the CBRE affiliate network

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 Part of the CBRE affiliate network

MARCH 2014