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SHIFTING OUT OF NEUTRAL Jason Schreiber, founder and CEO of internet provider LightSpeed, shares his concerns about the future of the web after the repeal of net neutrality IN THIS ISSUE • State-of-the-art Music Pavilion at MSU hits all the right notes • Quality of life is key to Lansing’s evolving parks plan • Why some analysts are ready to switch the channel on Netflix

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SEPTEMBER 2018 ON THE COVER Quality of life is key to Lansing’s evolving parks plan............................................................................. 6 State-of-the-art music pavilion at MSU hits all the right notes........................................................... 8 Why some analysts are ready to switch the channel on Netflix....................................................... 10 Shifting Out of Neutral.................................................................... 18

SEPTEMBER 2018

18 FEATURES Commentary ................................................................................................................................................. 4 Michigan Theatre's Historic Past Shines Brightly Into the Future ................................. 12 On a High Note ... The Local Impact of Live Entertainment................................................ 14 Visual Breakdown .................................................................................................................................... 16 Behind the Scenes ................................................................................................................................... 22

SHIFTING OUT OF NEUTRAL

Legislative Corner ................................................................................................................................... 25

Jason Schreiber, founder and CEO of internet provider LightSpeed, shares his concerns about the future of the web after the repeal of net neutrality

Business Calendar ................................................................................................................................... 26 Notable News ............................................................................................................................................ 28

IN THIS ISSUE • State-of-the-art Music Pavilion at MSU hits all the right notes • Quality of life is key to Lansing’s evolving parks plan • Why some analysts are ready to switch the channel on Netflix

Cover photography by Mary Gajda

Greater Lansing Business Monthly | Volume 31, Issue 9 group

Greater Lansing Business Monthly is published monthly by M3 Group at 221 West Saginaw Street, Lansing, MI 48933. Periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Michigan USPO. USPS number 020w807.

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COMMENTARY

Publisher: Tiffany Dowling tiffany@m3group.biz Sales Manager: Jennifer Hodges jhodges@m3group.biz

BUSINESS CONCERNS WITH REPEALING NET NEUTRALITY

Editor: Kelly Mazurkiewicz kelly@m3group.biz Media Manager: Jill Bailey Account Managers: Megan Fleming Liz Reno-Hayes Zack Krieger Spencer Flynn Adam Smith Communications Director: Ami Iceman-Haueter Art Director: Mark Warner Publication Designer: Heather Thielking Graphic Designers: Jeanette Wummel Quandrel Ollie Cody Fell Photographer: Mary Gajda Web Manager: Jeanette Wummel Videographer: Michael Cagney Event Calendar Manager: Jaime Hardesty GLBM Editorial Board: April Clobes — President and CEO, MSU Federal Credit Union Calvin Jones — Government Relations Director, Lansing Board of Water & Light Lisa Parker — Director of Alumni Career and Business Services, Michigan State University Alumni Association Deb Muchmore — Partner, Kandler Reed Khoury & Muchmore

Sometimes we simply take things for granted. Don’t feel bad. It’s human nature. If you’re like me, you’ve come to rely on the amazing access you have to information.

And, it’s not only useful for work. You can stream videos, connect visually with a loved one around the world, play games and put the vast amount of knowledge from as many sources as you can handle to work for you.

Imagine if the whole way you use the World Wide Web changed – dramatically. It could happen. The repeal of net neutrality could shift the way we access information and how much we pay for it. It gives organizations that provide these services an opportunity to make more money. Making money as a business is important. In fact, I believe in it wholeheartedly. But denying access to the internet based on an ability to purchase or prioritizing information based on one organization’s viewpoint is a slippery slope.

It’s hard to imagine the dramatic switch that could take place if net neutrality shifts.

After all, we get frustrated as a consuming public when Facebook seems only to allow a handful of our connection’s posts to get to us. What happens when you don’t have confidence that you’re receiving the information you need because it’s blocked through a service provider that doesn’t like or approve of the data or its origin? The internet was born with the vision that information should be accessible to everyone.

There are widely discussed cons to net neutrality as well. If service providers are allowed to ask for more money from high-level consumers, they can upgrade infrastructure making it possible to advance networks in many communities. Some might also argue that questionable content reigns in a net neutrality scenario.

As a small-business owner concerned with how other small-business owners grow and succeed, I’m worried that the ability to sell goods online against the big-box stores will be futile. Providers able to charge whatever they want and restrict access to those who can’t afford to play in the same realm will change small businesses forever. Prioritizing content for the wealthiest that can pay for the fastest data streams may decimate smaller businesses that can otherwise succeed through net neutrality.

Wherever you stand on the issue, be assured it will be an interesting journey.

Be dynamic in all you do,

Tom Ruis — Vice President, Fifth Third Bank Doug Klein — Executive Director, Mason Area Chamber of Commerce Mark Hooper — Partner, Andrews Hooper Pavlik Diontrae Hayes — Supervisor, Charter Township of Lansing

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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

Tiffany Dowling | Publisher

SEPTEMBER 2018

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Lansing Mayor Andy Schor Photo Provided

EVOLVING LANSING’S PARKS TO MEET THE NEEDS OF RESIDENTS

BY KRISTOPHER JOHNSON

Leisure time activities, the preservation and maintenance of parklands, special facilities that would otherwise not be made available: At the Lansing Parks and Recreation Department, quality of life for residents is the name of the game; however, those goals are not built upon and improved – nor are they accomplished – in isolation.

When the 2015-2020 Parks and Recreation master plan was developed, it was in tandem with not only the previous mayoral administration and parks board members but families and neighbors within the city itself.

“This past plan had a community survey, six public meetings and two public hearings,” said Brett Kaschinske, director of the Lansing Parks and Recreation Department. “We also gathered 6

input at our monthly parks board meetings and recommendations to the mayor for the budget regarding the use of the Lansing Park Millage dollars.

The Lansing Park Millage Fund, commonly leveraged as a successful match with state grant funding, has been in place for a quartercentury to fund the park system – and the citizens of Lansing are the driving force in making that a consistently renewed reality. The general order of priority can change depending on budget and variable needs, but officials never lose sight of who makes the plans desirable to begin with.

In addition to the Lansing Park Millage Fund, other funding such as the Ingham County Parks and Trails Millage and Michigan Department

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of Natural Resources Trust Fund grants contribute to keeping the entire system strong and well-maintained.

“We allocate funds based on what is best for the city, and we try to spread them around to the best of our ability,” said Lansing Mayor Andy Schor. “Of course, passage of a millage is necessary to have these funds available and allocated, which needs renewal when they are up in order to continue making Lansing a better home for our residents.”

Upcoming is a vast expansion of the River Trail to connect to the new McLaren Greater Lansing site and Michigan State University campus, which will also loop into the Fenner Nature Center trail. There’s also a new kayak/ canoe launch coming that will be in accordance

NEWS

with the Americans with Disabilities Act, making a more accessible form of sport for families and neighbors.

“We are also purchasing with Michigan DNR Trust Fund grants several parkland areas of the city,” said Kaschinske. “All of these developments and more will help Lansing continue to provide outstanding recreational resources for our residents.”

While citizens voice what they want and expect from their parks system, it’s easy to underestimate that impact as well as the scope of what is provided in return for the good faith from residents regarding fiscal responsibility and transparent planning.

“Most people do not realize that the city has 114 parks and over 2,000 acres of parkland,” said Kaschinske. “Combine that with 16 miles of River Trail, and it’s a vast system with many variable infrastructure needs. Our Lansing park millage has been a great resource for our system by providing approximately $2 million per year for capital improvements.”

Under the Schor administration, capital improvements are moving full-speed ahead to create empowering and focused projects that meet the needs of residents within the capital area.

“Residents want and expect these types of amenities for their families and neighbors because of the value they add to their living experience. That’s why they support our projects to make Lansing a prime and leading example for creating these kinds of residential amenities,” said Schor.

Planning only goes so far – enhancing the quality of life in Lansing and listening to the wants and needs of residents is an ongoing process where the work is never done. It only evolves. As 2020 comes and the core millage is up for renewal, city officials are confident in the value provided to the city and its people.

“Capital improvements through our parks create a well-needed quality of life,” Schor said.

“Playground equipment as well as destination park activities – tennis, horseshoes, disc golf, trails, etc. – are all important to local living.”

Brett Kaschinske, director of the Lansing Parks and Recreation Department

Kristopher Johnson is a Communications Specialist at M3 Group who earned his bachelor’s degree at MSU. A Detroit native currently residing in Lansing, Johnson enjoys volunteering writing, keeping up with politics and watching too many story-driven anime.

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Rendering of Large Rehearsal Room Photo Provided

MUSIC PAVILION WILL ELEVATE ART REPUTATION AND FOCUS ON STUDENT LEARNING, WELL-BEING

BY TERESA J. FRITH

Michigan State University recently began constructing a new, state-of-the-art, 37,000-squarefoot Music Pavilion that will increase the current area by over 40 percent, including 8,500 square feet of renovations to the existing space.

“The project is going very well,” said Jim Forger, MSU’s dean of the College of Music and professor of saxophone. “Fencing is up, the trailer for the crew is in place, and underground utilities are being worked on. They are building a retention wall to hold back the dirt and getting ready to shore up the foundation. The Hart Recital Hall has been demolished, and we are right on schedule.”

The last renovations at what is currently the Music Building, took place in 1956, and Forger said the new pavilion will help to bring the College of Music into the 21st century. The plans include bigger, more up-to-date spaces for practicing, rehearsing and doing research. The new pavilion will spread to the west and south in the direction of West Circle Drive and will attach to the present Music Building’s facade.

“We’ve been working in a 1939 building with no HVAC and very small rooms the size of an elevator, 8

so we need new ones,” said Forger. “It is a health and welfare issue, as now students have to work with the practice rooms open for safety reasons.”

Forger added that renovations to the music facilities have been on the university’s needs list for a long time. The College of Music has around 600 music students working on their degrees and about 2,000 other students active in ensembles and classes.

The Music Pavilion is being built at no cost to taxpayers; with all funds being privately raised via monetary gifts and donations. It is part of the Empower Extraordinary Campaign, which runs through the end of the year. The campaign has raised more than $1 billion to go toward the Music Pavilion and three other priority areas: 100 new endowed chairs, the Business College Pavilion and the Grand Rapids Research Center.

According to Forger, $17.5 million of the $35 million needed for the project is coming from undesignated gifts, and the college is matching the other half of the money needed.

“The funding is all donor-driven,” said Forger. “We still need to raise $3 million. The money is being

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raised in many ways, with donations from $50 and up.”

One example of how the new Music Pavilion will impact future users is how much the school’s percussion studio will benefit from the building.

The new Percussion Area will inhabit 4,144 square feet of the 35,000-square-foot Music Pavilion. It will include rehearsal space, two offices, reserved practice rooms and two studios for faculty.

Previously housed in a basement space, the new location elevates it into a modern, purposeful area.

It will be larger and will include a rehearsal room

View from Circle Photo Provided

MICHIGAN

Rendering of MSU Pavilion Aerial Shot Photo Provided

with skylights to bring in natural lighting and an acoustic-baffled ceiling for soundproofing. It gets rid of the previous problems associated with low ceilings, small rooms, and health hazards like poor temperature control, poor ventilation and potential damage to students’ hearing due to poor acoustics.

The Music Pavilion project will provide both new and renovated spaces that are specially designed to be in tune with the College of Music’s needs. It brings expanded practice rooms, classrooms, rehearsal rooms and technology spaces expected to help the College of Music build on its programs as well as maintain and attract new talents and strengthen its position worldwide.

A team of leading architecture and acoustical professionals from Bora Architects and Kirkegaard Associates drew up the plans.

The work will ensure the new Music Pavilion reflects and honors MSU’s historic past with its traditional architectural constructions of brick, granite and slate. The blueprints are from the same people who did work on Cook Recital Hall in 2012 and Fairchild Theatre in 2013. Input from college faculty is also expected to play a

part in the final construction and renovations.

The new addition will comprise four spacious rehearsal rooms for orchestras, bands, percussion and jazz. Each will include appropriate storage areas, audio and visual gear, and sound lock vestibules. Creating each area specifically for different kinds of music so each can play in rooms designed for the proper acoustic ranges.

The new pavilion also includes plans for a social and cafe space. According to Forger, the space is “much needed” and can be used for things like receptions, informal meetings, socializing and independent study that will help to advance the collaborative spirit of the college.

As for actual construction issues, attention is also being spent on things besides music considerations. The new pavilion will have proper heating and cooling systems. The space will take into consideration the noise levels from the HVAC processes and will not interfere with the college’s need for proper acoustics for the music practices and performances.

All in all, the new Music Pavilion is expected to serve the needs of students, faculty and the community now and into the future. The new Music Pavilion and related renovations are expected to be completed in June 2020.

Teresa Frith is a Navy veteran now residing in Nashville, Mich.

She's been writing and editing as a freelancer since retiring from the Navy in 2011, where she was a military journalist. She holds a BA in English from Western Illinois University. Her hobbies include reading, writing and working to help stray and feral cats.

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IS THE NETFLIX BINGE COMING TO A CLOSE?

BY ALLISON SPOONER

Who doesn’t love a good Netflix binge? From “Stranger Things” to “Orange is the New Black” and “The Crown,” there’s something for everyone from the world’s largest internet entertainment provider. Users certainly aren’t worried about the future of streaming as more and more people cut the cable cord and flock to streaming services like Netflix. Currently, there are around 125 million global subscribers, and the service is expected to add 5.5 million more.

But not everyone is confident that the binge will continue for the pioneer of streaming services.

ARE YOU STILL WATCHING? Netflix had a good second quarter in 2018.

Despite a recent dip (which didn’t last long) and missing its own forecasts for user growth, 10

its top line was up, and earnings per share were positive. But all this up and down scares stakeholders. Even though analysts expect the value of Netflix to be at 145 times earnings forecasts (compared to the average 18 times), many don’t see Netflix stock as a positive investment.

Yet the "too good to be true" attitude isn’t the only reason experts are worried.

While the company is now worth more than even Disney ($20 billion more to be exact) it isn’t fooling forecasters with its high numbers, and some are worried that the binging bubble may burst. Worried that the stock has run up too quickly, UBS analyst Eric Sheridan changed his target on Netflix stock from a "buy" rating to "neutral." So why, given its high stocks and price tag, aren’t analysts more confident? According to some, losing the ability to trade high with great numbers means a maxed-out valuation.

The streaming giant owes a lot of money. It currently owes around $8.5 billion and its chief executive, Reed Hastings, said the company will continue to borrow billions of dollars for many years.

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Here are a few of the problems keeping experts from settling in for a marathon binge.

SPENDING

Netflix is also currently spending a lot of money. Rather than purchase titles, Netflix is investing in over 700 of its own projects, featuring big names in both acting and directing. It’s that spending that has some experts guiding investors away from the stock.

NEWS

goodbye to titles like “Pocahontas,” “Lilo & Stitch” and all your favorite Pixar movies).

Because everyone loves a good Disney movie, any site Disney launches will probably be met with excitement and a rush to sign up, and that could mean a dip in subscribers for Netflix.

However, the competition problem can be met with a solution Netflix is already employing: great, original content. That means spending more, but – in the long run – it will be worth it to keep the company’s place at the top of the streaming pyramid.

As it spends more, the company will go further into debt – which means it will need to make that debt up to creditors with a higher yield, resulting in higher interest payments and a depressed net income.

The answer to all its money woes is subscribers. As long as Netflix keeps producing interesting, quality content, turning its cash burn into profit and maturing with the competition, there’s no reason Netflix shouldn’t continue to add subscribers and grow its valuation.

PLAY NEXT EPISODE While these are all legitimate worries given the stock’s most recent slip, there doesn’t seem to be a realistic end in sight for the home of shows like “Making a Murderer,” “House of Cards” and “Santa Clarita Diet.”

Given the good and the bad, it’s no doubt that Netflix is a tricky stock to track, and even experts are having a hard time predicting what it will do next. Still, it’s not hard to guess what Netflix will do next, and that is spend money.

Not only is the company expected to burn through more cash this year than years past, but it will also burn through what it spent in a year in just two quarters. A company that isn’t making money isn’t typically a sound investment. While that splurging may rack up its debt, it’s a strategic move on the part of Netflix. Producing the amount of original content Netflix has been able to crank out has given the company a significant edge over the competition, and since Netflix doubled down on its content efforts, the subscriber numbers flourished. It’s a double-edged sword as it fends off competitors but also requires big spending, and Netflix is expected to dish out $7.5 billion next year. It has clearly found success with original content as it was the big winner at the 2018 Emmy nominations. Its extensive menu of both purchased and original content makes Netflix the default streaming service of choice for those joining the cable exodus, but, it’s important that Netflix does what it can to stay ahead of the competition.

COMPETITION IS COMING As streaming media controls the remote control, traditional media is fighting to get in on the action. Giants like Disney and Fox are investors in Hulu, Amazon Prime and Apple, and are coming in hot. Disney is even planning on starting its streaming service in 2019, and that means pulling its content from Netflix (say

Allison Spooner is a freelance, content wizard. She writes content that helps businesses in Lansing and beyond tell their stories, educate their customers, and promote their brands. She is the Content Manager at StartupLansing, an online publication about startup activity in Lansing, regularly contributes to Capital Gains and loves helping businesses bring their words and ideas to life. To follow her writing journey and see a list of her professional content services, visit her website at theresistantwriter. com or find her on twitter at @allyspoon.

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The Michigan Theatre of Jackson Photo Provided

and Alzheimer’s disease, educational films, community and school events, summer programs, and more.

First owned by Butterfield Theaters, the majestic facility was the place to go for premium entertainment. Patrons were awed by the elegance of its ornate plasterwork with gilded cherubs, heavy satin damask curtains, a marble staircase leading to the balcony, carved walnut furniture and stained-glass light fixtures.

Designed by architect Maurice Finkel, the building originally cost $500,000. In 1991, a Detroit architect estimated the endeavor would cost $16 million today. It was not only the largest of its kind, but it was also the first to show sound pictures and the first air-conditioned building in the downtown area. The theater’s air conditioning system is what is called a “washed air” ventilation system, which is still considered to be an engineering marvel even now since it can circulate the air in the theater in only 10 minutes.

The theater underwent a few changes from 1930 until the theater initially closed its doors in May 1978. By the mid-1950s, the majority of the other old theaters in downtown Jackson closed their doors as people preferred malls and multiscreen movie theaters. But thanks to those who loved the great theater, it didn’t face the wrecking ball like so many others.

MICHIGAN THEATRE’S HISTORIC PAST SHINES

It was instead leased by the Michigan Theatre Preservation Association and reopened by December 1978. It ended up on the National Register of Historic Places on May 8, 1980.

Theater funding came from venues such as ticket sales, rentals and concessions; however, donations from individuals as well as businesses and foundations helped pay for the big projects.

BRIGHTLY INTO

THE FUTURE

BY TERESA FRITH

The Michigan Theatre of Jackson has been a shining star in downtown Jackson for 88 years, and thanks to a stream of volunteers, donors and patrons it is still going strong. The doors of this iconic theater and art house opened April 30, 1930, with a music show, vaudeville acts and a showing of the movie “Young Eagles,” starring Buddy Rogers and Jean Arthur.

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“Today we are keeping true to that same premise of showing both movies and having live shows,” said Steve Tucker, executive director of the Michigan Theatre. “We hold 300 or more events a year.”

Tucker said those events include not just movies, but also things like concerts, school proms, nonprofit events on subjects like autism

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Steve Tucker, executive director of the Michigan Theatre

The only major changes made to the facility were adding an Art Moderne Marquee in 1940, repainting the inside to a darker shade, replacing carpeting and adding a candy counter. The theater had its ups and downs during the next few decades as its ownership changed a couple of times, but its reign was far from over.

“When we first got a Facebook page in 2012, we went from having 2,000 followers to today having more than 15,000,” said Tucker. “We also have several thousand people on our email list.”

In August 1993, the theater was purchased by the not for profit Michigan Theatre of Jackson Inc., and its upswing began. That included more renovations, including a new marquee that better resembled the 1930 version, some regilding and returning the lobby and auditorium to its original color scheme. In 2012, the Michigan Theatre of Jackson received a Michigan Historic Preservation Award for the efforts made in restoring the theater.

“We are vested in our mission as a nonprofit and have partnered with several organizations such as museums, cultural enrichment programs, Detroit Institute of the Arts, etc.,” Tucker explained.

As time went on and technology moved forward, the theater has had to stay with the times. When the internet rose to prominence, the theater built a website and an email mailing list as well as become active on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter.

When it comes to the theater’s mission today, Tucker noted that it has changed from its original for-profit status to a nonprofit venue.

Tucker said that part of that tradition was fulfilled when the 26th Detroit Concert of Colors held a similar version of the diverse music and arts festival at the Michigan Theatre of Jackson in July called the Jackson Unity Festival. Tucker was able to bring the event to fruition after speaking with Ismael Ahmed, founder of the Concert of Colors, and the mayor of Jackson.

“We may be small in numbers when it comes to workers at the theater, but we have to be mighty,” said Tucker. “We are always thinking ahead to the next event.”

The Michigan Theatre of Jackson Interior Photo Provided

All in all, the Michigan Theatre of Jackson still stands today in all its glory thanks to patrons, donors and volunteers who love what it does, and who work hard to keep it open now and into the future. For information on current events at the Michigan Theatre of Jackson call (517) 783-0962 or go to michgan.org.

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Common Ground 2018 Photo by Zach Hagy

ON A HIGH NOTE …

The Local Impact of Live Entertainment Almost any night of the week, you’d be pressed to not find some type of live music in the Lansing area. In the summertime, live entertainment ramps up with open-mic nights, concerts in the park, Music in the Mansion at Turner Dodge House in Lansing, Old Town General Store concerts in the Courtyard and the East Lansing Summer Concert Series.

And that’s just the beginning.

Local venues like Mac’s Bar, the Green Door and the Avenue feature live music nearly every night, and they’re all within walking distance of each other. Further down Michigan Avenue, you can head on over to the Nuthouse, The Exchange or The Loft to catch a live show. Old Town’s got you covered, too, with Unicorn Lounge, the UrbanBeat Event Center and Zoobies. In REO Town, there’s a listening room at the Robin Theatre, weekly music at Blue Owl Coffee and live in-store performances at the Record Lounge.

For many Greater Lansing residents, summer calendars are filled with local festivals. Mighty Uke Day takes over Old Town in May, Lansing Beerfest in June, and Common Ground Music Festival and the Three Stacks Music Festival in REO Town in July. The new Lansing Eastside Folklike Festival, Lansing JazzFest and Sundried Music Festival in Mason all take place in August. September brings Michigan BluesFest to Old Town and the PRIME Music Festival to downtown Lansing.

MiEntertainment Group Marketing Director Jenna Meyer spoke about the Lansing live entertainment company. According to Meyer, the group was formed in 2017 after the dissolution of Meridian Entertainment Group and separation of former business partners Kevin Meyer and Brad Coombs.

The three-employee company produced live events – ranging from multiple-day music festivals to corporate events – for over 30 years.

In town, MiEntertainment Group is responsible 14

for the Common Ground Music Festival, PRIME Music Festival, Silver Bells in the City entertainment, the MLK Commission and more.

The Common Ground Music Festival has become a staple for many Lansing residents given its longstanding history in its familiar location. Meyer attributes its longevity to the festival’s adaptability in the ever-evolving industry.

“From economic declines and the loss of disposable income for many of our customers to competing with big businesses in nearby markets like Grand Rapids and Detroit,” said Meyer, “we are always prepared for change.”

Next summer, Common Ground is celebrating its 20th anniversary of bringing world-class talent to Lansing. While the initial audience is aging out, the festival continues to contribute economically.

Over the last 19 years, Common Ground has contributed roughly $70 million in economic impact and kept entertainment dollars in the tricounty region, according to Meyer.

“Events like Common Ground and PRIME have also established very positive reputations in the industry as being excellent festivals to play,” Meyer said. “We pride ourselves in having great relationships with agents and managers around the world that give Lansing opportunities to have international pop stars like Halsey and country superstars Tim McGraw and Toby Keith – to name a few.”

Working closely with several community partners including Lansing Catholic Central High School, St. Gerard Catholic Church, Epicenter of Worship, Boy Scout Troop 121 and Breadhouse Youth Group, Common Ground also donates over $5,000 worth of tickets to charity auctions.

For many Lansing residents, the entertainment scene improves the quality of life.

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BY SARAH SPOHN

“Concerts and live entertainment are vital to creating a sense of place in a community,” said Tania Howard, who hosts weekly open-mic nights, and books Friday night concerts at Blue Owl Coffee in REO Town. “They not only increase the number of dollars that are flowing locally, which positively affects local businesses, the people who work for them and the city as a whole through increased tax revenue; but also increase the number of people who actually want to live and stay there.”

Local musician Alex Mendenall has performed all over the state and at local gigs including Old Town Lansing’s Festival of the Moon and Sun, where he credits the arts as an invaluable resource.

“When you have a city where people know they can just walk around and stumble into a great bar with a band … I think it makes a huge difference,” Mendenall said. “It increases the amount of locals walking around and spending money in their city.

It raises awareness so that other people from other cities come by to spend their money in your city.

All of which makes the cycle spin faster.”

Graphic designer Maurica James works at the Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority, which also hosts Lansing concerts.

Along with the positive impact economically, James believes live music increases the morale of the community.

“The more pride you have means more dollars spent improving everything in the community, from roads to creative placemaking to livening the cultural scene,” James said.

For Lansing Brewing Company (LBC) Sales and Marketing Manager Keri Brown, live music adds to the burgeoning beer scene. Hosting live shows Friday and Saturday evenings and outdoor summer patio performances, the business largest crowds include local favorites Starfarm and Steppin’ In It. LBC also include music as part of the Winter Warrior Patio Party, 517 Party and Brewtoberfest.

“Music truly brings life to these parties by bringing everyone together in a shared interest,” Brown said. “It can also give new customers the opportunity to visit our business and the downtown Lansing Stadium District that may not have otherwise sought us out.”

Though Lansing does have many outlets of live entertainment, some consider it lacking when compared to bigger cities in the state.

Competing with two larger music markets, Lansing’s tertiary market goes up against Grand Rapids and Detroit frequently. Nate Dorough, cofounder, president and lead talent buyer of Fusion Shows, also aims at bringing and keeping live music in Lansing.

Founded in 2008, Fusion Shows has held over 2,700 performances across the state, many in Lansing at Mac’s Bar and The Loft. According to Dorough, Lansing is in a strange position in comparison to the resurgence of downtown Detroit and the strength of the Grand Rapids art community.

“It’s kind of put Lansing in this position,” Dorough said. “Stuck in the middle of a lot of other bigger concert markets.”

Jenna and Kevin Meyer with the band Little Big Town Photo provided by Jenna Meyer

enjoying the culture, they might think about settling in, which is a long-term benefit to the city.”

For local musician Chip Herbert, that was exactly the case. In 2012, he moved from Muskegon to Lansing and began working at Marshall Music Co. He started looking for open mics and quickly found a network of friends, many seasoned musicians, and a sense of home.

“I have learned so much from these people because of their willingness to keep the scene alive as well as their willingness to mentor a young musician who shares an interest,” Herbert said.

With local organizations continuing to invest in the arts and bringing new festivals like PRIME and the Eastside Folklife, the importance of live entertainment in a community is evident. Just as local businesses rely on customers, a thriving live entertainment scene requires support. That support presents benefits for local venues, record stores, restaurants, coffee shops, promoters, and the local community’s morale and economy.

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

The small staff of Fusion Shows is dedicated to nurturing a supportive, creative and welcoming scene of musicians and fans.

“I think the one place we really do take pride in making an impact is that we definitely try to be placebuilders,” Dorough said. “We want Lansing to be a place where people want to stay. Just creating things to do is a very important part of that.”

In order to keep a creative community alive and sustainable in Lansing, support is necessary, according to Dorough. “You have to support it,” Dorough said. “And its got to be a consistent effort.”

“Support the show and show up, and bring a friend. Support the things that you can attend,” he added. “If you can’t make it to a show on Saturday, tell some friends about it and say, ‘Hey, I can’t make it to this, but you should.’ It’s really important.”

Elderly Instruments creative strategist, local business owner, musician, and arts enthusiast Ty Forquer also believes live entertainment is an important part of keeping people here.

“If the social scene feels dead, a young professional may start looking for opportunities in another city,” Forquer said. “But if they’re going out at night and on the weekends and really L

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VISUAL BREAKDOWN

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Not just a sport, but a great support system for local women.

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The Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine Lady Classic Golf Outing at Hawk Hollow

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VISUAL BREAKDOWN

T LANSING RECREATIONAL THIS FALL

Michigan is one of the most beautiful places to be in autumn, and Greater Lansing is abundant with exciting things to see and do! Inside or outside, this list of just a few of our favorite events and recreation stops will keep you busy without having to leave the area.

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Oct 13-14: Apple 14 Butter Festival at Fenner Nature Ce nter Oct 13-14, 20-21 , 2728: Boo at the Zo o

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Meridian H istorical Village, Me ridian Tow nship Step back

Enjoy color cruises on the Grand River.

in learn abou time, t history and enjoy the view.

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Explore Lansing and ors East Lansing’s fall col like never before.

Compiled by Mary Gajda | Graphics by Heather Thielking | Sources: GLCVB.com, Lansing.org, vacationidea.com, pk.ingham.org, Michigan.org

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The Lansing BW 12 L Chili Cookoff Oct 12-14: The Co lor Cruise and Island Festival in Grand Ledge

18 The Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine Inspir ation and Influence aw ards

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Oct 13-14: Apple 13 Butter Festival at Fenner Nature Ce nter Oct 13-14, 20-21 , 2728: Boo at the Zo o

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Tour the campus of MSU, East Lansing See Beaumont Tower, Sparty, Beal Garden and more.

Birchfield Park, Holt Offers biking and walking trails, canoe sbee. rentals and ultimate Fri

Tour Lansi ng Commu nity College, La nsing

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Jason Schreiber, founder and CEO of LightSpeed Photo by Mary Gajda

LEAVING NEUTRAL

BY STEFANIE POHL 18

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

SEPTEMBER 2018

COVER

Net neutrality is a concept that has been a point of debate between service providers and users since the dawn of the internet. Those two words entered the cultural zeitgeist in the last few years, popping up in newsfeeds and hashtags with calls to help preserve it. But what is it?

Net neutrality rules, established in 2015 under President Barack Obama, directed internet service providers (ISPs) to allow equal access to online content. ISPs were required to provide an open internet that would treat all data the same, with net neutrality leveling the playing field for both big and small businesses alike.

Despite strong support for net neutrality, in December 2017 the Federal Communications Commission voted 3-2 along party lines to repeal the Obama-era policies. Even though the U.S. Senate voted to uphold the regulations, the repeal of net neutrality took effect this June. With the repeal, ISPs will have the ability to charge different rates for internet speeds and content or even suppress content altogether.

Companies like AT&T and Comcast expressed that they also want a fair and open internet in the time leading up to and following the FCC’s decision, but there is still concern that their tune could change now that the repeal of net neutrality has taken effect. The issue of net neutrality has now moved to the courts, and Congress could overrule the FCC’s decision using the Congressional Review Act. How will this change in the internet landscape impact businesses and individuals in the future? While much of the worry stems from a trickle of what-ifs, there is an increasing fear about the potential for a deluge of changes now that the floodgates are open. It is clear that the repeal of net neutrality stands to have an effect on anyone and everyone who relies on the internet for their entertainment and livelihood.

“Net neutrality is one of the most critical issues of our time,” said Jason Schreiber, founder and CEO of LightSpeed. The East Lansing-based internet provider serves areas across Michigan with fiber-optic networks.

LightSpeed’s customers are guaranteed net neutrality on their network, regardless of the FCC’s decision.

TERRITORY

“For the internet to exist in the form that it is today, we need assurance of net neutrality.

Without it, the internet is in jeopardy,” Schreiber explained. “Not in the short term, but in the long term.”

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COVER

Cori Thackery, owner of Sweetlees Boutique

For Schreiber, one of his biggest concerns is the lack of understanding and knowledge about the issue.

“People are more concerned about how it’ll affect them today,” said Schreiber. “That’s not the issue. The issue is the repeal of net neutrality is going to hurt the content providers and future entrepreneurs. Where it’s going to affect you is that over time the character of the internet will change.”

For entrepreneurs, starting and maintaining a business on the internet makes sense as a lower-cost option with potential to reach millions of people at the click of a mouse. Cori Thackery started selling clothing on Facebook before moving her business into a warehouse in summer 2017. By January, she opened Sweetlees Boutique in downtown Mason. While her brickand-mortar location attracts local traffic, she also understands how much of an impact her online presence has on the success of her business.

“I wouldn’t have a business if it wasn’t for the internet,” Thackery said. “Because we’ve had fair access to our website, Sweetlees has the potential to reach just as many customers as a large corporation.”

When a company like Amazon can afford potential costs for a faster-loading website and access to customers, those costs won’t affect its bottom line. The same cannot be said for small businesses when net neutrality’s not leveling the playing field.

Emily Duffelmeyer, owner of Jean Jean Vintage, also started as a web-based retailer in 2010 before opening her REO Town location this year.

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Emily Duffelmeyer, owner of Jean Jean Vintage

Ann Siegle, president of Marketing Acuity

“Historically, about 90 percent of my business has been interstate and international,” said Duffelmeyer. “I have been almost invisible to the Michigan customer.”

The National Association of Realtors has also been a strong advocate for net neutrality, “supporting legislative and regulatory efforts to ensure that broadband providers adhere to net neutrality practices.” Following the repeal, real estate professionals could see providers limiting the public’s access to real estate websites and charging more for the broadband speeds necessary to display audio and video content, such as a virtual tour of a home.

With an open internet, Duffelmeyer has had equal access to customers around the world — reachability that could now easily change at the will of large ISPs. She now hopes to strike a balance between her local business and e-commerce.

Both Thackery and Duffelmeyer see opening brick-and-mortar locations for their retail businesses as an opportunity to reach customers in a more personal way, particularly if the repeal on net neutrality leads to limited visibility online.

Along with retail, other types of business owners are bracing for the after-effects of the repeal, including those in the travel and real estate industries. Kim Barber of Globetrotter Travel in Grand Ledge has been in business for three years. She said she relies heavily on the internet for her job, from communicating with customers to booking travels to advertising her business.

“I do have concerns as a small-business owner with the repeal of net neutrality,” Barber explained. “The repeal has the potential to increase my operating costs significantly and limit my ability to access a variety of travel suppliers.”

With the repeal, an ISP could charge Barber more for a faster internet connection or visibility for her business online – things she needs to compete with larger travel companies.

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Schreiber understands why some might be fearful about starting a new business.

“It’s really scary. If you’re going to start a small business and it’s based on the internet — if you don’t have assurance that anyone on the internet can get access to your service or your business — then you’re dead in the water,” he said.

Ann Siegle, a web developer from East Lansing, agreed that it can become a vicious cycle for content creators and business owners. Siegle is president of the digital marketing agency Marketing Acuity. She has worked in marketing since 1989 and web development since 1995, the dawn of the modern internet. As someone who relies on the internet for her business, she has been a strong supporter of net neutrality.

“For my clients, I think the issue is they’re concerned their customers won’t be able to access content that they’re spending a lot of time and energy to produce,” said Siegle.

Even when a small business does everything right and pays its ISP an extra fee to access

COVER

customers, the effort will not matter if those customers aren’t willing and able to pay for it too.

But, what if you’re not a small-business owner — how does net neutrality impact the average person? The answer, according to Siegle, is a lot.

“This is a problem for all of us because the kind of content we’re consuming now is increasingly video,” Siegle explained. “If you’re a heavy user of Netflix, you could be charged more because you’re streaming media. My kids use YouTube incessantly. By the very act of what they’re doing online, we could be charged more.”

According to Siegle, the reason why larger cable companies pushed for the repeal of net neutrality is a money grab. With the growing trend of customers “cutting the cord” for cable and relying on streaming content online, those companies are now looking at ways to charge more for those services.

Siegle is also concerned an element of bias will play a role.

FOR ENTREPRENEURS, STARTING AND MAINTAINING A BUSINESS ON THE INTERNET MAKES SENSE AS A LOWER-COST OPTION WITH POTENTIAL TO REACH MILLIONS OF PEOPLE AT THE CLICK OF A MOUSE. “In poor communities where people can’t afford to buy fast-lane internet, that’s a big problem when you start looking at kids doing work with their school’s e-learning programs,” said Siegle. “I’m concerned.

They’re not going to have access to these digital learning services because their parents can’t afford to pay for that high-level access.”

While the future of the internet without net neutrality remains uncertain, it is apparent that its users will slowly but surely begin to see roadblocks, whether in their businesses or homes. And it’s worth paying attention to because everyone will be affected.

“The individual liberty of the consumer is what is at risk here, and an entrepreneur who wants to have a business based on the internet,” Schreiber explained. “The internet is a utility infrastructure. Without it, we don’t have access to communicate with each other.

It’s making the connection. It’s roads.”

Stefanie Pohl earned a BA in English and Creative Writing from Michigan State University and an MA in Writing and Publishing from DePaul University. She is currently a freelance writer raising her two young daughters with her Spartan sweetheart. Find her musings about motherhood and more on her blog, www.mostefinitely.com. Stefanie has been spelling out her name since 1985.

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and serves as director of communications with the Michigan chapter of Meeting Professionals International.

GREATER LANSING WELCOMES 4.8 MILLION VISITORS A YEAR. THE GLCVB LIKES TO SAY “TOURISM COUNTS.” IN YOUR WORDS, WHY DOES TOURISM COUNT? In Greater Lansing, tourism can mean anything from meetings and conventions, sports tournaments, people enjoying a weekend getaway or parents visiting their children at MSU. Travel and tourism to the Greater Lansing area is big business. The Greater Lansing region hosts over 4.8 million tourists, which generate $602 million for the local economy every year.

In addition, the hospitality industry supports over 11,000 local jobs.

HOW HAVE YOU SEEN LANSING CHANGE OVER THE YEARS WHEN IT COMES TO RECREATION AND EVENTS OPPORTUNITIES HERE IN THE AREA? The quality of the sports tournaments held in the Greater Lansing is really growing, many now with national/international impact. I am also impressed with the Makers and Shakers Trail – it’s really been an explosion of local craft beverage artisans making beer, wine and spirits.

WHERE ARE YOUR FAVORITE PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO IN LANSING? That’s a hard question! Old Town for unique restaurants, I enjoy walking the river walk and perusing the stores. I attend festivals - there are 50-plus throughout the year. I like to take in a Lansing Lugnuts game, check out the breweries and distilleries that are popping up all over. The possibilities are endless!

BY MARY GAJDA | PHOTO BY MARY GAJDA

KRISTINA KAUFFMAN

Certified Tourism Ambassador

Kristina Kauffman, certified tourism ambassador (CTA), is a 12-year veteran of the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau (GLCVB) and has held several key roles within the organization. Starting as a receptionist, Kauffman worked her way through several service-focused positions to become the current events and CTA program 22

THOSE ASIDE, LET’S TALK ABOUT SOME OF THE POINTS OF PRIDE IN THE AREA?

manager. As CTA program manager, Kauffman facilitates the well-received Greater Lansing CTA program, now in its eighth year. One of the most successful CTA programs in the country, the Lansing CTA program now boasts over 500 members and one of the highest renewal rates in the country. Kauffman is also a loyal volunteer with the Old Town Commercial Association

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Obviously, there is the Capitol building, Michigan Historical Center, MSU campus, Impression 5 Science Center and tons of diverse festivals.

WHAT IS THE OBJECTIVE OF THE CTA PROGRAM?

BEHIND THE SCENES

AS A RESIDENT OF THE AREA AND SOMEONE WHO KNOWS LANSING

BY HEART AS A CTA, HOW DO YOU FEEL WHEN PEOPLE SAY … “BUT THERE IS NOTHING TO DO IN LANSING?” I encourage them to become a CTA and also to experience Be A Tourist in Your Own Town. The CTA response is always, “There’s so much to see and do. … What are your interests? Let me help you find it right here in Greater Lansing.”

Photo provided

The CTA program’s objective is to increase regional tourism by inspiring front-line hospitality employees, volunteers and residents to turn every visitor encounter into a positive experience.

AS A PROGRAM MANAGER, WHY DO YOU THINK IT IS IMPORTANT FOR LANSING RESIDENTS TO CONSIDER BEING A CTA?

Everyone has relatives or friends that visit them.

Having hundreds of residents that are educated and inspired about the community they live in is a critical part of what makes Lansing special.

The power of CTA is in having caring individuals that are always willing to share the best assets to those that don’t know much about the area. We have a built-in welcoming committee for visitorsresidents that love their community and have endless resources. We tell everyone: Love Lansing like a local.

ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT OUR READERS TO KNOW? I love my job and everything about it. Not many people can say they like the people they work with and love going to work every day.

Mary Gajda a multi-media specialist at M3 Group. She is a wife, mom and photographer who loves music, Pinterest and all things chocolate.

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SPONSORED

LCC CREATES SUPPORT STRUCTURES TO HELP NEW STUDENTS SUCCEED It’s no secret that high school graduates sometimes struggle with the transition to college-level coursework. This problem can be especially acute at community colleges, which admit anyone willing to learn. Lansing Community College’s newest initiative grapples with this problem by overhauling how it helps students achieve.

LCC sees getting students ready to get the degree as part of its mission, provost Elaine Pogoncheff said.

“Our objective is to have students enroll in a college-level course with academic support in their first semester at LCC, rather than have to pass a series of developmental education courses before being allowed to enroll in college courses,” she said.

The college instituted a number of changes this summer to give students more individual attention. When a student is admitted to the college, an academic success coach is assigned to the student based on their intended area of study.

Success coaches specialize in the LCC programs and curricula in these areas and students will have the same success coach throughout their LCC experience. The success coach will connect one-on-one with students before class registration 24

to discuss their academic plan, identify potential barriers to success, and connect them with additional resources for success.

Students also take a career assessment prior to enrollment to help them discover careers and academic pathways that match their skills and interest. While some students choose to take general education classes without deciding on a major, others do not have the time or financial resources to take classes at leisure. The career assessment helps students decide on a program and not waste time and money on courses that will not count toward their intended degree or certificate.

Previously, the college utilized developmental education, which is a common model nationally. Under this framework, before students could earn credit toward their degree, they had to enroll in classes that prepared them to tackle college-level coursework. These classes cost students time and money, but did not move them any closer to graduation.

Today, LCC is saving developmental education for students who need the most intensive preparation. Its new goal is to get students into college-level coursework as soon as possible, and then provide extra support to help them succeed, Pogoncheff said.

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LCC’s efforts are a proactive response to a national problem facing college-bound students.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, students enrolled at two-year public institutions nationwide paid more than $920 million out-of-pocket for developmental education in 2013-14, and two out of five students enrolled at two-year colleges accrued debt. For many LCC students and other two-year college students, time and money are limited resources.

At LCC, the transition away from developmental education stems from the LCC Board of Trustees’ adoption of the Six Core Principles for Transforming Remediation in January 2018. These principles were based upon successful models in redesigning developmental education and issued by the education organizations Achieving the Dream, American Association of Community Colleges, Charles A. Dana Center of the University of Texas, Complete College America, the Education Commission of the States, and Jobs for the Future.

The college plans to complete the overhaul of its approach to developmental education and fully integrate its support initiative by fall 2020. For the upcoming fall semester, incoming students will benefit from the new admissions process, personalized success coaching and increased academic support.

CHAMBER HAS SPEAKERS, DINNER ON TAP THIS FALL

BY STEVE JAPINGA

As a #LoveLansing resident, fall is my favorite time of the year. School is back in session, football and other sports are back in action, and events are quickly filling our busy schedules.

The Lansing region has something for everyone.

At the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, we host more than 60 events during the year. From Member Mixers to Chamber University, these events help our members connect, grow and thrive.

In addition to the great networking and educational opportunities, the Lansing Economic Club features prominent local, regional and national speakers covering a broad spectrum of business-related topics ranging from economic trends and business success stories to the latest in management and leadership insights.

Photo by Mary Gajda

than 20 miles of paved trails that run through parks and natural areas to enjoy throughout our region. Whether you’re catching a football game, enjoying a day on the river or enjoying your favorite patio at one of the region’s fine establishment, Lansing has so much to offer.

Do yourself a favor: Get out and explore everything our community has to enjoy!

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

WE CAN SECURE

your perfect office space.

The fall Economic Club series kicks off in September with Kevin Suboski, EOS implementer and founder of Suboski and Company, followed by Business Leaders for Michigan President and CEO Doug Rothwell in October and the prestigious Celebration of Regional Growth Awards in November. The 2018 series concludes in December with AF Group President and CEO Lisa Corless.

If politics and policy are your cup of tea, don’t forget the chamber’s Legislative Dinner on Oct. 24. If you’re interested in adding any of these events to your schedule, contact Ashlee Willis at michiganpremierevents@lansingchamber.org for more information.

While we are all extremely busy attending school functions, football games and business events, it’s also important to remember to have fun and enjoy the outdoors too!

From Old Town to downtown and Potter Park to Michigan State University, there are more

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BUSINESS CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER 2018 SEPTEMBER 5 THE PAPERLESS SNOW CO. WORKSHOP, LANSING Owners of top-100 landscape companies open the hood on their operations and explain the systems that got them to the top. Bring your numbers (all financials are kept confidential) and learn the simple systems proven to build more efficient, more productive snow companies. It couldn’t be easier. In just two days, you’ll create real planning and maintenance systems for your company, ready to be used the very next day. Check out the LMN Workshop Website (workshop.golmn.com/) for more information about this event.

SEPTEMBER 6 SIXTH ANNUAL MICHIGAN INVENTORS EXPO, EAST LANSING The sixth annual Michigan Inventors Expo takes place Sept. 6 at the Kellogg Conference Center.

In addition to the keynote speaker, guests will have an opportunity to take part in the Spin, Pitch and Sell contest. Booths are limited to 50, so sign up early to showcase your invention. The expo has partnered with Michigan State University's Regional Economic Innovation Center for lunch and the networking mixer, where guests can connect with the attendees. Don't miss out on this great opportunity for exposure and education.

Space is limited, so register today. Visit eventbrite. com for more information about the event.

SEPTEMBER 11 ENTREPRENEURSHIP INTRO NIGHT, EAST LANSING Learn more about the entrepreneurship and innovation minor as well as the E&I Experiences Option Program at Michigan State University and the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Before and after the presentation, guests will have the opportunity to

network with students and faculty. Free pizza and pop will be provided. Visit eventbrite.com for more information about the event.

SEPTEMBER 11 THE PATH TO A BRILLIANT BUSINESS, LANSING Most people learn excruciating lessons in their hiring. Learn the fundamentals of making sure you get the right people in the right seats so that you get the return you need out of your new investment.

Visit eventbrite.com for more information about the event.

SEPTEMBER 20 JMC STUDENT-ALUMNI PIZZA NIGHT, EAST LANSING James Madison College’s annual Student-Alumni Pizza Night brings together current Madison students and JMC alumni working in a variety of

GREATER LANSING THANKS COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS

BY BR E N DA N DW Y E R

In 2013, the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau (GLCVB) unveiled the Community Champions initiative to recognize local individuals who assist the GLCVB (and its sports division, the Greater Lansing Sports Authority/GLSA) in securing meetings, conventions and sports events for Michigan’s capital region.

Every year groups of all kinds come into town and pump millions of dollars into the local economy, benefiting everything from hoteliers and restaurants to retailers and gas stations.

Obviously, this is an ideal economic scenario, but it doesn’t always just happen on its own. The GLCVB and GLSA work alongside local meeting and event venues as well as other hospitality partners to promote Greater Lansing as a great event destination.

However, efforts are significantly bolstered when well-connected community-minded individuals see the big picture and jump in to help.

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“Our hope for this program is to shed light on the significant efforts being made by community stakeholders to keep Greater Lansing in the forefront as a potential host-city for meetings and events throughout the year,” said Jack Schripsema, president and CEO of the GLCVB. “This can mean anyone from university professionals with national affiliations to local sports clubs to area religious leaders. If you attend meetings or events because of your hobbies or professional connections, why not take a lead position and help host those events or tournaments in Greater Lansing?”

Local individuals who are interested in inviting their professional organization, hobbyist club or tournament-style sports event to the Greater Lansing area for a future convention or event can contact the GLCVB/GLSA and receive free planning assistance with all aspects

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of the event. In addition, they’ll also be considered as a future Community Champion. One of last year’s Community Champions was Amy McCausey, project coordinator with the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams at Michigan State University. McCausey was recognized for her role in helping to host the North American Particle Accelerator Conference, which will bring hundreds of science and education professionals from across the country for a multi-day event in Greater Lansing.

“It means a lot to be given the Community Champion award,” said McCausey. “I plan a lot of events for international guests, and it’s an

SEPTEMBER 2018

important opportunity for me to show off my hometown, support local businesses with these visitor dollars and keep our economy thriving.”

Ask yourself: Do you belong to a club, team or organization that could host an event in Greater Lansing? If so, contact Amanda Toy at (517) 3771405 or at atoy@lansing.org.

Make a difference and be our next Community Champion.

Brendan Dwyer is the Manager of Marketing Communications with the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau.

BUSINESS CALENDAR

fields for an interactive, dynamic networking event.

Students have the opportunity to learn firsthand about a wide array of potential career paths, make connections with alumni working in areas of interest, and practice their networking skills in a casual and comfortable setting. Visit eventbrite.com for more information about the event.

SEPTEMBER 22 2018 LEAN IN MICHIGAN LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE, LANSING Lean In Michigan is a community of professionals empowering women to build purposeful and fulfilling careers through gender equality. Lean In Michigan is an independent organization, affiliated with LeanIn.Org, to further its mission. Contact info@leaninmichigan.org with any questions.

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MEDITATION & MINDFULNESS A LUNCH & LEARN WITH KURT SCHOLLER, MERIDIAN CHARTER TOWNSHIP Join us for an introductory talk by Local First Member Kurt Scholler, about what meditation is and how it works, using every day, non-denominational language. You will also be guided into meditation and leave with a few techniques you can practice on your own. Scholler has been practicing meditation and mindfulness since 1996 and teaching in the greater Lansing area since 2009. Visit eventbrite.com for more information about this event.

ICF MICHIGAN 2018 CONFERENCE, LANSING ICF Michigan's 2018 conference will gather the Michigan coaching community in one place to collectively grow, develop and transform. Network and build long-lasting relationships with fellow coaches and related industry partners. New connections are a great way to open avenues and create new opportunities. Earn CCEU credits and add a few new tricks to your coaching arsenal by attending the keynote presentation and participating in breakout programs that fit your learning needs. Visit eventbrite.com for more information about the event.

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UNIVERSITY PARTICIPATION IN SBIR/ STTR: FROM PRE-SUBMISSION TO POST-AWARD, EAST LANSING Universities are often directly or indirectly involved in the development and execution of SBIR/ STTR-funded projects, so it is important that university administrators understand

SBIR/STTR requirements and that the small business understands the university’s policies. This session covers issues that need to be addressed both as the proposal is being developed and after it is awarded, looking specifically from the university’s perspective.

The program explores budgets, participation by researchers, conflict of interest and postaward reporting requirements, and more. Visit eventbrite.com for more information about the event.

D COF

JOIN US TUESDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2018 Be an active member of Lansing’s dynamic business community. Meet people from diverse industries to add to your network, reconnect with friends and find local resources.

Join us for Connections & Coffee presented by Greater Lansing Business Monthly PRESENTED BY:

and Washington Avenue Advisors.

8 - 9 AM NOVEMBER 13, 2018

WASHINGTON AVENUE ADVISORS 1146 SOUTH WASHINGTON AVENUE L ANSING, MI 48910

RSVP or sponsorship inquiries to ami@m3group.biz

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to our community with their leadership and innovation, and are devoted to excellence in senior health care.”

LEADINGAGE LAUDS BURCHAM HILLS STAFF MEMBERS

Masood became director of operations in 2016 but started his career at Burcham Hills serving in the dining room in 2004, when he was 16. The Okemos native has a bachelor’s degree in management from the Broad School of Business at Michigan State University. Masood recently earned the designation of licensed nursing home administrator.

MASOOD

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Burcham Hills Director of Operations Abdullah Masood and Memory Care Manager Kathleen Leslie received recognition by LeadingAge Michigan, which represents mission-based providers who serve seniors and adults with disabilities. Masood was named Emerging Leader wand Leslie received the Shining Star award.

“We are pleased that LeadingAge Michigan has chosen to recognize Burcham Hills staff members,” said Pam Ditri, executive director of Burcham Hills. “Both Abdullah and Kathleen contribute

Leslie began as manager in the memory care area in 2014. In 2015, under Leslie’s direction, Burcham Hills added two new “neighborhoods” to the community. These neighborhoods were designed to increase social interaction for the high-functioning memory care residents. Leslie also created a sensory room to enhance tactile function as well as a music and memory program to help sustain cognitive function.

RE/MAX AGENCY MAKES WSJ LISTING MacIntyre and Cowen RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals of the Grand River team is listed

JOIN US OCTOBER 18, 2018 CROWNE PLAZA | 6:00-8:30 P.M.

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in the Top 50 in Real Trends. The Wall Street Journal published them at No. 17 for closed transactions of 279 and No. 37 in dollar volume of $42.84 million for 2017 in the state of Michigan.

MACINTYRE & COWEN

CBRE|MARTIN FINALIZES LAND SALES IN OKEMOS, LANSING CBRE|Martin (CBRE) announced the sale of a 4.165-acre vacant parcel on Central Park Drive in Okemos. Shawn H. O’Brien of CBRE represented the seller, South Park LLC, in the sale. OKERE NE LLC, d.b.a. Graff Chevrolet, purchased the property for an undisclosed amount. This is the third property sale this year that CBRE has assisted South Park LLC partner Robert Phipps.

In a second transaction, O’Brien and Eric Rosekrans represented seller Case Credit

CAWLM and the Aitch Foundation have come together to shine a light on heroes in the midMichigan area that inspire, impact, imagine and influence change in our communities. Join us as we celebrate change-makers in our community. inspiration-influence.com

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Put your brand above the rest with comprehensive media services from M3 Group, Lansing’s premier full-service agency. For more information, visit us online at m3group.biz or give us a call at 517.203.3333.

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Union on the sale of 3010-3018 Wood Road in Lansing. The buyer, Stellar Hospitality Lansing LLC, purchased the 3.6-acre property for an undisclosed amount. The Wood Road sale comes shortly after the announcement of plans to extend Coleman Road as an underpass of U.S. 127 to reach Wood Road. That news brings a renewed enthusiasm to available property and proposed developments on both sides of the interstate.

IXION GETS NODS IN PULSAR AWARDS Ixion Ensemble took home four awards at Lansing City Pulse’s 14th annual Pulsar Awards celebration on July 16. The theater community gathered to celebrate the talent and creativity of performers stretching from Owosso to Charlotte and throughout Lansing.

The 2018 Lansing City Pulse Pulsar Awards

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recognize the best in theater the capital area has to offer.

While they received nine nominations, Ixion performers and productions went home with four awards.

Winners included Rico WILSON Bruce Wade for the Best Actor in Play award for his performance in “Broke-ology” by Nathan Louis Jackson, Janet Colson for the Best Actress in a Play award for her performance in “Gidion’s Knot”

by Johnna Adams and Lekeathon Wilson for the Best Supporting Actor in a Play award for his performance in “Broke-ology,” which also picked up the award for Best Play.

1. Protect your brand 2. Preserve your intellectual property

“We’re thrilled for the performers to be recognized for their outstanding effort,” said Jeff Croff, Ixion artistic director. “The awards are a tribute to not only their hard work, but also their commitment to storytelling. We are humbled to be part of such an amazing theatre community.”

3. Develop contracts that clearly define

MERIDIAN SELECTS NEW POLICE CHIEF

including copyrights, trade secrets, for any film, tv, music book and other marketing endeavors creative ownership and approved uses

Contact: JOHN W. MASHNI P: 517.371.8257 E: jmashni@fosterswift.com John Mashni has extensive experience in the film, television, publishing, and music industries, and he loves working with creative individuals who have a vision to share and a story to tell.

FOSTERSWIFT.COM Lansing • Detroit • Southfield • Grand Rapids • Holland • Traverse City

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On July 20, Meridian Township Manager Frank Walsh announced Ken Plaga as the new Meridian Township police chief.

“I am excited to continue to work for the community in my new PLAGA capacity as chief,” said Plaga. “We have a department full of incredible men and women, and I look forward to continuing to work with them and the community.”

Plaga has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Michigan State University and a master’s in Public Administration from Western Michigan University. He has served in the Meridian Township Police Department since September 1995.

NOTABLE NEWS

“I am proud to recommend Ken Plaga as our next police chief. I trust Ken beyond words to lead our department going forward,” said Walsh.

“We had three outstanding finalists, and I want to thank them for their strong desire to serve Meridian Township.”

MALL CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY

wheel and tire distributor. Jim Salkiewicz represented the landlord and Nick Vlahakis represented the tenant.

• The sale of 818 Lake Lansing Road in East Lansing. The 4,000-square-foot medical/dental building sold to a local dental professional.

Jeff Shapiro represented the seller in the transaction.

• The sale of 4000 Michigan Ave. in Lansing.

The 4,000-square-foot renovated office building was purchased by Pathway Properties. Steve Slater represented the seller in the transaction.

UNITED WAY DIAPER DRIVE A SUCCESS After Capital Area United Way volunteers met in June at the nonprofit center inside the Marshall

10th anniversary of the Maple Street Mall Ribbon Cutting

The Mason Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors provided a ribbon cutting July 12 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Maple Street Mall, 108 W. Maple St. in downtown Mason.

Attending were (pictured) owner Debbie Dancer Shattuck, Tom Cochran, Deborah Keyes, Mark Howe, Jamie Robinson, Don Kill, Sally Cremeans, Jackie Howe, Karen Hilker, Suzanne St. Charles, Dolores Nagel, Brenda Gauze, Annie Everett, Amy Bowden, Luanne Dancer, Doug Dancer, Barbara Streed, Scott Shattuck, Donna Craft, Victor Jankowski, Michele Ireland, Donna Jankowski, Kathy Azelton, Richard Allison, Spring Kraemer, Aaron Fiedler, Leroy Townsend and Mark Voss.

REAL ESTATE BROKER ANNOUNCES COMMERCIAL TRANSACTIONS NAI Mid-Michigan/TMN Commercial announced several commercial property transactions including the following: • The sale of 3543 Jefferson Highway in Grand Ledge. The 24,500-square-foot industrial complex will be the new location of Slabtown Paper Shapes. Nick Vlahakis represented the seller and Jim Salkiewicz represented the purchaser.

• The sale of 2420 E. Grand River Ave. in Williamston. The 10,100-square-foot industrial/manufacturing facility was sold to a Williamston based organization.

Dave Robinson represented the seller in the transaction.

• The lease signing of 20,000 square feet in the new St. John’s Industrial Park. Tenant MHT Luxury Alloys is an out-of-state automobile L

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Street Armory to sort and bundle collected diapers for distribution to local nonprofits, more diapers were dropped off at the United Way offices. In all, the Capital Area United Way collected and distributed approximately 10,000 diapers and 180 packages of wipes to 12 local nonprofit agencies. The Capital Area United Way thanked the community as well as LAFCU, which served as the donation drop-off site.

NZOKOU, HARTLEY JOIN IXION BOARD

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Richard Nzokou and Julie Hartley have joined the Ixion Ensemble Board of Directors. Nzokou is a commercial lender with First National Bank of America. He is a graduate of Michigan State University with a degree in economics and a native of East Lansing. Nzokou also serves as treasurer on the board of the Michigan Institute for Contemporary Art. Hartley is a certified tourism ambassador for Lansing and a graduate of Great Lakes Christian College with a degree in psychology and Bible/ theology. She has been active in the Lansing theater community for over 20 years both on stage and behind the scenes. Hartley has also been an active participant in Habitat for Humanity.

“We’re thrilled to add Rich and Julie to the board,” said Jeff Croff, artistic director and board president of Ixion. “Rich’s expertise will help us as we look to find a permanent home for Ixion and build for the future. Julie’s fundraising expertise and deep community roots will ensure that we take those steps into the future confidently and with the participation of other community stakeholders.”

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MacIntyre and Cowen RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals on Grand River team offered congratulations to buyers’ agent Joel Sodeman for reaching the 100 Percent Club this year.

GREENSTONE RANKS HIGH IN SATISFACTION In an annual survey conducted by Michiganbased Advantage Research and Analysis, GreenStone Farm Credit Services continued to score above industry averages with a 94 percent customer satisfaction rating. The 2018 rating marks 14 consecutive years of a 94 percent or higher grade for the member-owned cooperative.

Serena Small, Lauren Cardona, Charlene (Charley) Barr, Raquell Rivera, Morgan Ledesma, Samantha Forsyth

“Achieving results like this takes a team effort and is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of all GreenStone employees,” said Dave Armstrong president and CEO of GeenStone Farm Credit Services. “Maintaining this level of satisfaction from customers who are facing tremendous financial challenges is especially encouraging and reflective that we are serving the needs of our customers.”

An organization aimed at preparing women for careers in the construction industry recently celebrated the graduation of its inaugural class from its Apprenticeship Readiness Program.

In addition to providing in-depth analysis to confirm areas where customers feel satisfied, the survey also provides insight into key focus areas for the future. The survey gives customers the opportunity to comment on their individual experience with the cooperative.

“We are extremely proud of these individuals and excited to see how their careers progress,” said Tori Menold, co-founder of WIST and business process manager at Granger Construction Co.

One respondent in the survey commented, “We feel that GreenStone stays on top of everything to help us better manage our finances. This helps us tremendously. We love having our loan officer, accountant, and all our loans all in one place. This way when we go into our local office everyone knows all about our finances and can help serve us better and faster with our needs. Thank you for making our life much easier!”

GreenStone customers from Michigan and Wisconsin participated in the annual survey.

ART EXHIBIT RUNS THROUGH OCTOBER Lansing Art Gallery & Education Center is presenting the exhibition “Sorting Sightings” by Peter Abrami set from Sept. through Oct. 30.

“My compositions are made up of forms and colors that rub against each other, paintings that act as visual puzzles or games. I want my work to be active in the sense that the ‘whole’ is always presented in parts, a visual puzzle to assemble and sort,” Abrahmi said.

Six women comprised the first-ever graduating class of the program from Lansing-area organization Women in Skilled Trades (WIST).

Founded in 2016 by Menold and Carol Cool from Michigan State University, WIST offers the 12-week Apprentice Readiness Program, which is designed to help students develop careers in the construction skilled trades by preparing them to successfully pass a Work Keys test and gain paid apprenticeships.

WIST’s program comes at a time when many companies in the industry struggle to find enough qualified, skilled candidates – particularly women – for available positions.

Granger Construction has already hired one program graduate to complete her apprenticeship with Granger’s carpentry unit. Additionally, every WIST graduate who has taken a Work Keys test has passed, with two students achieving top platinum-level and gold-level scores.

KOERNER JOINS FOSTER SWIFT

This exhibition is sponsored by Dan and Bonnie Warmels.

SKILLED TRADES PROGRAM MARKS FIRST GRADUATES

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KOERNER

Foster Swift welcomed attorney Mark T. Koerner from the Koerner Law Group.

Koerner’s practice focuses on municipal law with substantial experience in transit, drain and labor and employment matters; business law;

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the Capital Area Humane Society, Ele’s Place, Haslett Community Church, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.

technology law; and related litigation. Koerner will be based in the firm’s Lansing office.

A mid-Michigan native, Koerner earned his bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University. Before attending the John Marshall Law School where he earned his Juris Doctor and a Master of Laws in information technology.

AACC NAMES KNIGHT TO BOARD

Because of his experience in a wide variety of legal areas, Koerner is frequently requested to present at conferences and seminars on numerous topics. Recently he has presented on a selection of labor and employment topics, including the FLSA, FMLA, FOIA, OMA, hiring/firing issues, and social media policies and best practices.

The board acts on behalf of the institutional members to create and maintain a vision for AACC and to ensure the organization adheres to appropriate standards of performance. Knight will serve on the audit and finance committee.

Knight’s many accomplishments include his development of strong partnerships, including those with Delta Air Lines, Lincoln Electric and Google. The Early College at Lansing Community College for students entering their junior year of high school has received a national ranking for its rigorous academics and accelerated college-style class schedule.

Koerner is licensed to practice in all Michigan courts and has appeared before both the Michigan Court of Appeals and Michigan Supreme Court. He also maintains his law license in Illinois. He is a member of the State Bars of Michigan and Illinois as well as the Ingham County Bar Association.

The AACC has appointed Lansing Community College President Dr. Brent Knight to its board of trustees

The American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) has appointed Lansing Community College President Dr. Brent Knight to its board of trustees.

Koerner is an active participant in a wide variety of community organizations, including

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“On behalf of AACC, I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Knight to our board,” said Walter G. Bumphus, AACC president and CEO.

PROUD TO BE IN EAST LANSING

In addition, Knight’s visual transformation of the downtown campus is highlighted by its arts culture and inviting atmosphere, which includes a kiosk featuring languages from across the globe meant to be inclusive and welcoming to all. Knight’s emphasis on “ambient learning,” the process of people absorbing information from their environment, is seen throughout

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MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY

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Part of the CBRE affiliate network

SEPTEMBER 2018

Part of the CBRE affiliate network

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campus with educational displays on the walls in classrooms and hallways. The beauty of the campus is so prominent Knight was awarded the Mayor’s Cup for Civic Excellence in 2015.

CLARK CONSTRUCTION UNDERGOES RESTRUCTURING With an eye toward the future after a successful 72-year run, Clark Construction President Sam Clark, Chairman John Clark and CEO Chuck Clark announced the following organizational staff title updates: • • • • • • • • •

David A. Reece: chief operating officer Allen Blower: senior vice president Robert LaLonde: senior vice president Dan Korte: vice president Gary Steller: vice president Colt Odeh: vice president Mary Kane Butkovich: director Steve White: controller Lyn Hewitt: human resource and training manager • Jennifer Huebel: creative manager

GRANTS WILL BUILD FAMILY TREATMENT CENTER Highfields Inc. has secured funding to build a new education and family treatment center on its Onondaga campus thanks to support from the Dart Foundation. The grants will enhance the organization’s residential treatment program for youth and families as well as pay for upgrades to the existing kitchen and dining hall. The $600,000 has been allotted to the William and Claire Dart Family Treatment and Education Center, while $150,000 is earmarked to upgrade the existing kitchen and dining hall.

The project, part of a $1 million campaign to improve the Onondaga campus, is expected to be completed in spring 2019.

GLCVB HIRES VISITOR SPECIALIST

Royse comes to the bureau after over 20 years as web specialist with the Michigan Economic Development Corp., working specifically with Travel Michigan, the state’s ROYSE destination marketing organization. Royse has worked part time as a Lansing ambassador, assisting with convention services since 2016.

“We are happy to welcome Carol to the visitor center team,” said Jack Schripsema, president and CEO of the bureau. “As someone who was born and raised in the area, as well as a 20year employee of the MEDC, she is uniquely qualified to recommend Greater Lansing’s best to visitors.”

The Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau announced it has hired Carol Royse visitor information specialist for the Greater Lansing Visitor Center – East Lansing location.

Award-Winning Experts* *Voted Best Large CVB in Michigan Two Years Running

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SEPTEMBER 2018

Earn 1% Cash Back on Every Purchase

Unlimited 1% Cash Back on All Purchases Redeem your cash back at any time, for any amount, and never worry about your cash back expiring with a Business Cash Back Visa Credit Card from MSUFCU. • As low as 11.9% APR • No annual fee Start earning cash back on all of your business purchases. Apply today. msufcu.org/businesscashback • 517-333-2424 Members will earn 1% cash back on all purchases. Visit msufcu.org/businesscashback for full terms and conditions. Annual Percentage Rate (APR) listed is lowest rate offered for the MSUFCU Business Cash Back Visa Credit Card. Actual rate determined by member’s credit score. All loans are subject to credit approval.

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www.martinpropertydevelopment.com

HOW DO YOU MAKE YOUR REAL ESTATE VISION A REALITY?

For over 30 years, we’ve represented owners and occupiers on construction projects of all sizes and scope.

From inception to completion, we’ve brought their visions to life.

Start your vision with a call or email today.

Jason M. Brunette Director of Project Management P 517.319.9260 jason.brunette@martinpropertydevelopment.com