Special Section by County Press

PPROGRESS The County Press SECTION A

February 26, 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

Memo from the Publisher

PROGRESS Past, Present and Future

he County Press has been recording Lapeer County history for more than 173 years. Founded as Plain Dealer & Lapeer County Democrat in 1839, the newspaper went through a number of mergers and name changes to become The Lapeer County Press in 1946. In 1984, then publisher Bob Myers shortened the paper’s name to The County Press.

All five school districts in Lapeer County, despite challenges, are implementing new programs and expanding the use of technology in the classroom to provide the best education possible for area students.

Despite challenges

EDUCATION progressing in Lapeer County

BY JACOB HUNSANGER 810-452-2609 • jhunsanger@mihomepaper.com

ichigan’s economy may be slowly recovering from what has been termed “the Great Recession,” but the public education system is still reeling from the effects of budget cuts and population decreases. However, Lapeer County school districts are taking this as a moment for selfreflection, internal reorganization and a critical growth and development stage moving local education squarely into the 21st century. “Education in Lapeer County is progressing at a rapid pace,” said Steve Zott, superintendent of the Lapeer County Intermediate School District (LCISD). “Our schools are working harder than ever to meet the needs of students while responding to such issues as declining enrollment, demands for accountability and transparency, advances in technology and legislative mandates.” Lapeer County is divided into five school districts, the largest of which is Lapeer Community Schools. The other four districts are North Branch Area Schools, Imlay City Community Schools, Dryden Community Schools and Almont Community Schools. At the northwest corner, the northern tier and northeast corner of the county students also attend Brown City, Marlette, Mayville and LakeVille schools. Lapeer is also home to Chatfield School, the only charter school in the county. There are also two parochial schools in the county, Bishop Kelley Catholic School in Lapeer and Imlay City Christian School in Imlay City. Until recently, North Branch Wesleyan Academy was operational as a third choice in private education, but like other schools in Hadley, Elba and elsewhere, the school closed its doors a few years ago. Lapeer County is also home to the Lapeer County Education and Technology Center in Attica Township, operated by the LCISD where students from all five school districts are able to take additional classes in specialized, hands-on courses that teach valuable, real-life vocational skills. The advanced EdTech center is continually growing its programs, which include robotics and engineering, culinary classes and a full-service automotive department. Education does not stop at high school in the county, however. The

Matt Wandrie (left) welcomes home LCS art teacher Nathan Denryter from Afghanistan. As the new Lapeer Community Schools superintendent, Wandrie is pushing education into the 21st century while dealing with declining enrollment.

community is also served by Mott Community College, a satellite campus of the main community college in Flint. Mott provides local residents the opportunity to earn technical certificates through offerings like the Certified Nurse Assistant program. Many high school graduates also take advantage of MCCLapeer to earn their first two years’ college credits, for a fraction of the cost, before continuing on to a more traditional four-year university. Several schools in Lapeer County have become known locally and statewide for outstanding achievements in a variety of fields — academically, athletically and in the arts. However, serious budget problems and other threats to education have forced educators and administrators to reevaluate local school districts in the past few years, occasionally resulting in some seemingly radical changes. Recent changes announced at Lapeer Community Schools include closing Maple Grove and Seaton elementary schools, along with looking at a year-round school, focus schools, new virtual learning opportunities, and the possibility of returning to only one area high school. Public schools, which receive funding from the state based on the number of students enrolled, have been hurt by the sluggish local economay. LCS currently receives $7,046 per student, and while that per pupil funding is more than in SEE EDUCATION, PAGE 4A

School administrators agree that the best asset in Lapeer County’s education system is the dedicated staff of teachers and support staff.

It sounds a little odd to say that a newspaper is recording history when we usually think in terms of the newspaper business as reporting current events. But today’s current events are tomorrow’s history. When you pull out that County Press clipping of Johnnie’s big basket or Jennie’s volleyball victory 10 or 15 or 20 years from now, you’ll be looking at history. Your kids’ history. Our county’s history. Today, The County Press brings you a big chunk of future history in the form our annual Progress Edition. The County Press has been publishing the Progress Edition since about 1965. Whether it started as a Bob Myers brainstorm or he borrowed the idea from another publisher, I’m not sure. Like a lot of Myers’ newspaper innovations from that era, the Progress Edition idea was emulated by other publishers across Michigan and around the country. But nobody did their Progress Edition better than Myers and The County Press. I remember going through my first Progress Edition at The County Press in 1973. The entire newspaper staff was mobilized early in the year to plan and produce the stories and ads that would appear in the huge Progress Edition in early March. The newspaper staff referred to the edition simply as “Progress.” Much midnight oil was burned in The County Press offices as reporters, ad reps and typesetters labored to pull everything together for what was always the biggest and best-read paper of the year. So just what the heck is this special edition we call Progress all about? First and foremost, it is about our county’s businesses and the people who make those businesses go. Who owns and runs the business? Who works there? What do they make, sell or service? What makes them special? This is good stuff. This is the stuff that makes up what my good friend Todd Muir calls the fabric of Lapeer County. Through the articles in today’s edition we all get a chance to catch up with our friends in business and meet the folks in business we might not know yet. Secondly, this year for the first time in many years, The County Press reporting team brings you a group of stories about other aspects of life in Lapeer County: our schools, farming, government, manufacturing, arts & culture. Our reporters cover these beats every week and report the news. For today’s stories, we asked our reporters to give our readers an overview of these institutions from the perspective of “Progress.” That is, what are the movers and shakers in these areas doing to move their organizations forward and in doing so, to move Lapeer County forward? The County Press is proud of our role in recording the current events and history of Lapeer County. I am especially proud of the work our team has done in creating today’s Progress Edition for all of you. Technology has improved since my first Progress experience in 1973, but you can bet our team was burning the midnight oil to pull this one off and I thank them all for their effort. I’ve written over the past year about how our owner, Rick Burrough, has invested in this newspaper. I’ve written about our local roots and local commitment. I’ve written about how everyone who works for this paper has rededicated themselves to restoring this newspaper to the greatness it once achieved under Myers’ ownership. Those things, along with today’s Progress Edition are our Progress story. I hope you enjoy today’s paper. I hope you clip the story about your business, or about the business that you, your family member or friend works for. I hope you put that clipping on your bulletin board or refrigerator to enjoy and show off for a while. And when the newsprint starts to yellow a little, I hope you carefully fold that clipping and put it in a special place. Several years from now, you’ll come across that clipping, maybe with your kids or grandkids looking on, and you’ll share a little history. Remind them that you and your kin are part of the fabric of Lapeer County. Thank you for reading The County Press. — Wes Smith, Publisher

2-A • Sunday, February 26, 2012

The County Press 1521 Imlay City Rd, Lapeer

810-664-0811 Locally Owned • Locally Operated Locally Connected

Muir Brothers Funeral Home 138 S. Main, Almont

810-798-8225

The Pix Theatre 172 W. Nepessing St., Lapeer

810-664-4824 Your Home for Entertainment

Village Barn Carpets Inc. 2650 S. Van Dyke Rd., Imlay City

810-724-6483 www.villagebarncarpets.com

State Farm Insurance Pat Cronin 148 W. Park St., Lapeer

810-664-1711

Championship Trophies LLC Now at our NEW location 169 W. Nepessing St., Lapeer

810-664-7609

Active Home Medical Supply 655-A McCormick, Lapeer

810-667-6962

173 years

104 years

years

359 W. Nepessing St. Ste. B

810-664-0731 www.bookshelflapeer.com

Polar Palace 3301 Davison Rd., Lapeer

810-245-7778

Benny & the Jets 515 E. Capac Rd., Imlay City corner of Van Dyke & M-21

810-724-8100

Hilltop Campground 1260 Piper Dr., Lapeer

810-664-2782 Sun and Fun on Beautiful Lake Nepessing

Muir Brothers Funeral Home Lapeer Our Family Serving Yours for Generations

Mortimer Lumber 1936 S. Cedar St., Imlay City

810-724-0501 www.Mortimerlumber.com

Paul Rhien Jr. Disposal

years

810-664-9428

Bryan’s Supermarket

339 Bates, Lapeer

6002 N. Lapeer St., North Branch

years

810-793-6106

Rickard, Denney, Garno & Associates

Check Us Out

years

331 E. First Street, Imlay City

Barb’s Bookkeeping & Tax Service

years

Why call an 800 number? Everything you need is right here in town!

The Book Shelf

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

810-724-0555

109 S. Main, Capac

810-395-4359

Independent Bank 4046 Huron St., North Branch

810-688-3051

years

1985 W. Genesee St., Lapeer

Lapeer Area View

years

810-245-4236

1521 Imlay City Rd., Lapeer

810-664-0811 Your Community Connection

Imlay Wireless 1797 S. Cedar St., Imlay City

810-724-0077

132 years

104 years

66 years

years

www.mihomepaper.com

Blackburn ChapelMartin Funeral Home 4216 Huron St., North Branch

810-688-3232 www.blackburnchapel.com

American Legion Post #16 1701 W. Genesee, Lapeer

810-664-9312 Call for Upcoming Events & Rental Information

Lapeer Glass 1944 N. Lapeer St., Lapeer

810-664-3551 Glass for Every Need

Bee Gee’s Family Shoes 147 N. Almont Ave., Imlay City

810-724-3435 We are your only Family Shoe Store in Lapeer County

Floyd Delong & Son Excavating, LLC Excavating, Septic Tank Pumping, Porta-John Rentals

years

810-664-3523 • 810-664-2177

Beckwith’s Body Shop, Inc.

years

19 years and 10 years

www.delongexcavating.net

275 E. Nepessing St., Lapeer

810-664-8222

Muxlow Tire & Automotive 572 N. Cedar, Imlay City

810-724-2886 “Complete Auto Repair”

Calvelli’s 44 West Park St., Lapeer

810-245-6800 Good Food • Drinks Live Entertainment

Northbound 4632 Van Dyke, Almont

810-798-0214

131 years

years

810-664-2977 www.LCBT.com

Taylor, Butterfield, Howell, Churchill & Jarvis, P.C. 407 Clay St., Lapeer

810-664-5921

Houghtaling Agency Inc. 168 N. Saginaw St., Lapeer

810-664-1421 www.haiinsurance.com

E & L Service 920 Demille Rd., Lapeer

110 years

years

McDonald’s

635 S. Cedar St., Imlay City

years

810-724-0688

years

Lenny Miller’s

years

5800 Dryden Rd, Dryden

810-796-2470

Lee’s Auto Repair 1897 N. Lapeer St., Lapeer

810-667-3480

years

Brakes • Suspension • Alignment •Electrical • Tune-ups

years

Grondin’s School of Cosmetology

years

Louie’s

810-667-1500

83 W. Nepessing, Lapeer

810-664-8811

Muffler & Brakes • Custom Bending Auto Repair • Complete Auto Care!

years

Lapeer County Bank & Trust

years

3301 Davison Rd., Lapeer

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 3-A

PROGRESS 2012

years

371 W. Nepessing St., Lapeer

810-664-7683

Conventry Realty LLC Carole Porretta, Broker-Owner 12 W. High Street, Metamora

810-678-2288 www.ConventryRealtyLLC.com

J. L. Filhart Experienced

United We Stand

years

4-A • Sunday, February 26, 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Metamora Golf and Country Club 1600 Club Drive, Metamora Twp. • 248-969-2120 www.metamoragolf.com METAMORA TWP. — Tee time can’t come soon enough for area golfers. And when it does, Metamora Golf and Country Club not only offers a stunning 18-hole championship golf course, but numerous amenities including complete practice facilities, a full-service clubhouse and an Olympic-sized heated pool. The 177-acre facility encompasses a wide variety of services for the golfer and non-golfer alike. The course itself offers exceptional shot value, design balance and aesthetics. The parkland style course, with its dramatic elevation changes and beautifully rolling terrain, provides a challenging but fair test for golfers of all levels. The course was design by Don Childs and Associates. Metamora Golf and Country Club is Lapeer County’s only semi-private golf club, providing members with the events and atmosphere of a private club, but also allowing the public to play the course. Golf lessons are available through the Pro Shop. It was named one of the favorite golf courses by readers in the 2011 Best of the Best section published by The County Press.

The club has been open since 1990, but is in its third year under new local ownership. Rick Fleming is the club pro and general manager. “The facility is intended for the golfer who appreciates a good test of golf and enjoys the service and ambiance of a private golf club,” said Fleming. The course has hosted the Michigan Women’s Amateur, Atlas Cup Matches, the Golf Association of Michigan’s Net Team Championship and the Power Bilt Junior Tour. Metamora Golf and Country Club also hosts events in its beautifully decorated clubhouse, accommodating up to 120 guests on two levels of the clubhouse for events like wedding receptions, golf outings, bridal/baby showers, or other social events. The lower level of the dining room holds up to 80 guests for a more intimate event. The club’s professional staff is ready to assist in the planning of your event. Fleming and his staff enjoy “offering a tremendous golf experience to each guest that visits our facility.”

Metamora Golf and Country Club has hosted the Michigan Women’s Amateur, Atlas Cup Matches, the Golf Association of Michigan’s Net Team Championship and the Power Bilt Junior Tour.

Lapeer County Community Mental Health 1570 Suncrest Drive, Lapeer • 810-667-0500

Justin McHugh, In SHAPE Health mentor, supervises Kerri on the eliptical and helps her meet her goals.

LAPEER — Lapeer County Community Mental Health (CMH) is integrating health care with its many services offered. Treatment of mental illness is no longer considered separate from the body, and attention to physical health is an important part of recovery. Persons with a severe mental illness have an average life span that is approximately 25 years shorter than that of the general population. Risk factors include: diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and obesity attributed to the weight gain resulting from low motivation, poor diet, and the side effects of medications prescribed to treat a serious mental illness. The In SHAPE wellness program is one way CMH helps persons with a mental illness improve their fitness levels, reduce their stress symptoms, and improve both physical and mental health. Personal health mentors, who are physical trainers, accompany In Shape participants weekly to

activities such as swimming, yoga and weight training. In SHAPE brings together a wide range of community organizations concerned about health, exercise and nutrition to assist participants with access to fitness activities in the community, nutritional counseling and education, smoking cessation support, medical liaison support, and encouragement for receiving regular medical check ups and active management of chronic health conditions. The In SHAPE model is different in that it focuses on wellness and not illness. “This concept fits well with the direction of Lapeer CMH as we focus on the concept of recovery from serious mental illness,” states director Dr. Robert Sprague. One participant agrees, “For a long time I felt like everything was gone, I’m starting to finally get my happiness back”. Kelley Quijano and Justin McHugh are the two InSHAPE health mentors, who have worked with 30 members so far who have lost a com-

bined total of 275 pounds to date. Participants are also discovering a surprising extra benefit from the program; better control of their mental health symptoms. One member reports, “I don’t hear as many voices when I’m working out.” Participants are also noticing lower blood pressure readings, and that breathing exercises can reduce stress and anxiety. One InSHAPE participant told Kelley, “I’m really depressed today.” When he left, he was happy, smiling, reporting, “I feel a lot better now than when I first came in.” Other CMH projects to help the people who use our services to improve their health include Nutrition classes taught by staff physicians, Yoga classes, basketball and volleyball leagues, and group exercise class, all rotated and offered periodically. Plans for a second spring CMH Open house, open to the public are underway, with a focus again on Wellness and integrated

Education from page 1A years past ($6,700 per pupil in 2003-2004), it is down from more recent years ($7,204 per pupil in 2007-2008). Those changes are reflected throughout the county in all school districts. Unfortunately, with decreases in revenue, there have been increases in expenses. Educators’ salaries, benefits and compensation, along with building maintenance and other expenses, can comprise up to 85 percent or more of the overall budget at some schools and the cost of health insurance and retirement has gone up in recent years. In North Branch, retirement costs went from 24 percent to 27 percent in the last year, which means that without any visible changes, the cost of operating has gone up without any means of making up that revenue elsewhere without drastic cuts. However, all of that is coupled with the simple fact that there are simply less children in the county than there were five or 10 years ago, due to declining birth rates and families moving elsewhere to find work, and thus there are less students in the schools. Evident in Lapeer County, in spite of all the struggles and challenges in the past few years, is the fact that educators are not seeking to “hibernate,” they are not trying to merely survive the budget crises, but are instead trying to use this time as a period of growth. “Teachers and educators have always gotten the job done,” said North Branch Area Schools Superintendent Thomas English. “That’s the remarkable thing.” Administrators are trying to juggle the overall issues of budgets and infrastructural needs while at the same time remaining focused on each individual child in the class-

Education in Lapeer County does not stop at the high school level. Mott Community College in Lapeer provides high school graduates and area residents with the opportunity to earn two years of college credits, along with additional offerings and certifications.

room. “That’s the real struggle,” said English. “It’s forcing us to find answers to that question. We are going to have to do some things fundamentally different than what we’re used to.” At the same time, however, English said that “Some things we have to hold as sacred, like teaching and learning basic literacy skills.” English and his fellow superintendents in Lapeer County seem to be in agreement that simply making the adequate cuts to stay within budget until things improve would be the wrong course of action. “Chopping programs for now could have future repercussions,” English said. “We are making a conscious and concerted effort to cushion the blows for our students and shield them from the burden, problems and pressures associated with these disturbing and

stressful economic times,” said Dr. Gary Richards, superintendent of Imlay City Community Schools. “As one example of this commitment, we are expanding our early childhood programs and child care support by opening an Early Learning Center in the fall.” “The district has been able to maintain a healthy financial picture while addressing declines in revenue from the State of Michigan. Our Board of Education has been proactive in making reductions each year and has worked diligently to keep cuts as far away from our students as possible,” said Amy Swantek, director of business services for Imlay City Community Schools and Dryden Community Schools. Those sentiments were echoed across the county in all five school districts. Stu Cameron, principal of Imlay City High School, said,

“School funding has been more of an issue in the last five years than any time I can remember in my 16 years in education. Basically, we are being asked to do more, and be more accountable for doing more with less resources and financial support. Fortunately, people have stepped up to the challenge, but the funding issue has been dramatic for most schools.” Cameron went on to say, “I truly believe that the best, and least expensive thing we can do in order to maintain and attract students is offer a positive climate, treat students as individuals with individual needs and aspirations and implement the very best practices and teaching methods in our classrooms. We will continue to strive to do so. It costs nothing to build an effective teaching relationship with a student, to work tirelessly and to use

effective methods in the classroom.” After the dedicated teaching staff and school employees, technology is being praised throughout Lapeer County schools as one of the single best, most rapidly growing assets available for education. “Technology is allowing teachers to do some amazing things both in and out of the classroom. The down economy has also made it tough to provide everything that is needed in the classroom,” said Joseph Candela, superintendent of Almont Community Schools. “Technology improvements continue to offer new and exciting tools that will enhance instruction. The use of tablets and handhelds will put information at students’ fingertips,” said Bill Kraly, Chatfield School director. He added, “First and foremost, Chatfield is always focused on the success of each individual student. Decisions are always based on what is best for the child.” Superintendent Candela pointed out, “The biggest threat facing education, in all districts, is the fact that we have to keep cutting to keep up with increased costs. Those cuts are a direct threat to a top quality education for all students in all districts. Every student must have the equal opportunity to have access to a world class education, not only for the benefit of Michigan, but for the entire country.” Despite the challenges to education, Wandrie said, “We going to maintain the smalltown traditional school setting that people have come to know and appreciate, but offer some 21st century programs and opportunities for kids that we really need. We want a competitive school district and one that produces kids that can return to Lapeer, can stay in Lapeer, contribute to our economy, raise a family and that all starts with a great public school system. And that’s what he hope to achieve.”

www.mihomepaper.com

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 5-A

PROGRESS 2012

Hunters Creek Club 675 E. Sutton Rd., Lapeer Township• 810-664-4307 www.hunterscreekclub.com

Hunters Creek Club in Lapeer Township has provided members with world class hunting, fishing and dining experiences since 1958.

LAPEER TWP. — Hunters Creek Club is Michigan’s premier sporting club celebrating America’s finest sporting traditions since 1958. The club’s services include unrivaled wing shooting, a state of the art sporting clays facility, phenomenal fishing, legendary hunting dogs and trainers. With hearty dining in its beautiful lodge located on 60-acre Misch Lake, the club encompasses some 1,500 acres, of which more than 1,000 are licensed as hunting preserve land. The club was founded by Preston Mann and has been located in Lapeer Township since 1964. Charlie Mann, Preston’s son, has owned the club since 1993. The club has 10 full-time and a dozen seasonal employees. Charlie Mann is proud of his staff. “They are home-grown, Lapeer people who started here in high school. Stephanie Best, our dining room manager, has been here for almost 20 years. Our guides include Paul Feehan, Mark June and Jamie Fogler who have been with us for 34, 30 and 18 years respectively,” he said. Mann’s management

team includes Chief Customer Officer Lisa Yarema and Executive Chef Dave Wilder. Mann takes special pride in the club’s hunting dog training program that first made his father famous. Lapeer native Steve Hardenburgh, Hadley resident Guy Reith, and Mann train dogs that not only make their owners happy but also impress the American Kennel Club. Reith finished one master hunter and two senior hunters recently including Senior Hunter Golden Retriever ‘Hiram’ owned by John and Donna Walker of Metamora. Mann plans to continue the club’s growth and success. “We're going to take our hunter safety program on the road to private schools and clubs,” he said. Mann has also added new 35-and-under members with a dues structure and special events targeted to that group. When asked why Hunters Creek Club has endured and grown through the years, Mann explains: “We are unique in that we are a full-service sporting club. Whether you are a fisherman, hunter, dog lover or food lover, we have something for you. And our offerings in each category are world class.”

First Baptist Church of Lapeer Sunday School: 9:45 am Sunday Morning Service: 11 am Sunday Evening Service: 6 pm Awana & Youth Group: 6:30 pm Wednesday

154 years

810-664-8814 • firstbaptistlapeer.org 1212 Knollwood St. • Lapeer

St. Paul Lutheran Church & School Sunday Worship: 8:30a.m. & 11:00a.m. Monday Worship: 7:00p.m. Sunday School & Bible Class Sundays, 9:45a.m. “Showing all people the love of God by sharing the Gospel of Grace” Rev. John C. Kaiser, Pastor

139 years

Church : 810-664-6653 • School : 810-664-0046 • www.stpaul-lapeer.org 90 Millville Road, Lapeer (Just south of West High School)

Grace Episcopal Church The Lapeer Development Corporation helped 12 businesses last year with projects that generated 248 new jobs in the county.

Lapeer Development Corporation 449 McCormick Rd., Lapeer • 810-667-0800 www.lapeerdevelopment.com works to retain, expand and attract key LAPEER — The Lapeer Development business sectors including advanced manCorporation (LDC) is a community based ufacturing, high-tech, medical and business non-profit economic development organiservices. zation. Its purpose is to lead and coordiSince 1981, the Lapeer Development nate economic development throughout Corp. has assisted more than 367 new and Lapeer County and to provide a link existing businesses with projects that have between federal, state, and local governimpacted the local economy. More than ments and businesses interested in locat7,413 jobs have been created or retained. ing or expanding in Lapeer County. Dozens of existing companies have LDC Executive Director Patricia Lucas received assistance for expansion projects. recently announced the community-based Lucas said the organization can help non-profit economic development organifirms with financing through SBA 504 zation helped 12 businesses last year with projects that generated 248 new jobs in the loans, private activity bonds, the LDC Revolving Loan Fund, Imlay City Facade county and the investment of $37 million. In the current economy, said Lucas, pro- Loan Fund and the Lapeer Main Street Facade Loan Fund. viding assistance to this number of busiLDC staff offers small business counselnesses is incredible. ing for those trying to start a business in The LDC acts as a liaison between the Lapeer County or existing businesses lookpublic and private sectors to obtain the ing for help. Lucas noted that business necessary assistance for a project. retention is an important component of Businesses are provided assistance and what the LDC does, noting 85 percent of all counseling in the areas of site selection, business planning, small business loan pro- new jobs are created by existing businesses. grams, job training, tax incentives and starting a small business. The staff at LDC

Earn Points when shopping at Ray C’s. Redeem points for future purchases. Start earning today. See website for complete details.

Sunday Service at 9:00 am Wednesday - Holy Eucharist 12:15 Bible Study with Bag Lunch following Thrift Shop located next door. Thrift Shop hours M & Tu 1-4pm, W-Sat 10am-4pm Food for Families meal served Tuesday 4-5pm in parish hall “All Are Welcome”

134 years

810-664-2841 • www.gracechurchlapeer.org 735 W. Nepessing Street • Lapeer

North Branch Wesleyan Church Service Times: Worship Gathering, including Waumba Land and UpStreet, Sundays 10:45AM Intermission Youth Group, Sundays 6:00-8:00PM AWANA, Wednesdays 6:30-8:00PM MOPS, 1st and 3rd Fridays, 9:30-11:30AM

years

810-688-2380 • www.nbwesleyan.org 3164 North Branch Rd. • North Branch

Country Christian Church Sunday Morning Service times: 9:30 – Blended Worship Service, 11 – Contemporary Worship Service, Sunday School at 9:30 & 11 a.m. Nursery, Toddler and Children’s programs at all services Wednesday Service times: 6:30 p.m. – Children’s Ministry for Nursery to 6th Grade, “RENDEZVOUS” for 7th - 12th Grade, and Adult Bible Studies (Sept-April)

years

810-793-7417 • www.countrychristianchurch.com 5677 N. Lapeer Rd., North Branch, MI 48461

Almont Vineyard Church Vision: A church where people experience the transforming power and presence of Jesus Christ. Mission: To help BUILD God’s Kingdom Sunday School for All Ages Pre-School & Nursery Children’s Church Youth & Young Adult Contemporary Worship Manna Food Pantry • Prayer Ministry

years

810-673-3040 • Located at: 3835 Van Dyke Sunday Service: 10:30 AM • www.almontvineyardchurch.org

6-A • Sunday, February 26, 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Crandall Chrysler Jeep Dodge 2093 S. Van Dyke Rd., Imlay City • 810-724-0444 www.crandallchrysler.com IMLAY CITY — Crandall Chrysler Jeep Dodge, a family-owned corporation, has been providing Imlay City and the surrounding area with all their automotive needs for the past 24 years. “We have always treated customers the way we would want to be treated,” said sales manager Harry Lewis. Customer service is a top priority at Crandall, and customers can rely on decades of experience from sales manager Harry Lewis, office manager Dee Strammond, service manager Connie Demming, and parts manager Jake Woodward. Crandall provides up-to-date inventories of new and pre-owned Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram vehicles with new or redesigned models. We have an almost entire new lineup of cars, vans, SUVs and trucks. But that isn’t all you’ll find. The responsive staff can help you with financial matters, service your car, order parts and more. Crandall, the county’s oldest

Chrysler Dodge Jeep dealership, is proud of its award-winning sales and service department, as well as its friendly, honest employees who are very mindful of the customer’s time. In the past year, Crandall has increased its staff by 20 percent, increased inventory and is continuing to put a high priority on training. “We have hundreds of great customers that like to just stop by and visit with us. That means they like us, and are providing the product and service in a friendly, honest and trustworthy atmosphere,” said Lewis. The Crandall staff can assist in securing financing for new and used car sales, with all types of credit, from good to bad. Crandall Chrysler Jeep Dodge has strong relationships and is committed to finding you the perfect car loan company to suit your car finance needs. Crandall’s service department offers buy one, get three free oil changes for $49.95.

The staff at Crandall Chrysler Jeep Dodge is ready to help you pick out that perfect vehicle or repair your current one. Standing in front is Jim Crandall. In back of the car are (left to right ) Jason, Nathan, Dee, Connie, Mike, Jake, Dave, Aaron, Steve, Billy, Al and Kurt. Not pictured are Harry and Donna.

The number of buses GLTA runs daily Wheel chair accessible • Curb-to-curb service

The number of operating hours GLTA buses run daily Mon. - Fri. 6am-8pm • Sat. 9am-3pm

The total number of passengers GLTA transported in 2011. Total number of miles GLTA accumulated last year

The Pregnancy Resource Center offers pregnancy tests, education on abortion procedures and risks, adoption issues, peer advocacy counseling and abortion support service.

Pregnancy Resource Center

Hours advance notice that GLTA now requires for all transportation

1715 Imlay City Rd., Lapeer Township • 810-667-0055 www.prcol.org LAPEER TWP. — For 21 years, the women of Lapeer County have had a place to turn in the event of an unplanned pregnancy. Since 1991, the Pregnancy Resource Center of Lapeer has been helping women and families experiencing unplanned pregnancies by providing emotional, physical and spiritual support. “We are a non-profit ministry of Jesus Christ to the community,” said executive director Donna Leuck. Services offered free of charge through PRC include self administered pregnancy tests, confidential peer counseling, education on abortion procedures and risks, post abortion counseling education, adoption information and referrals as well as referrals for agencies and doctors. The center does not perform or refer for abortion. PRC also maintains a clothes closet with donated baby and maternity clothing. Other material services include baby furniture and toiletries. Items given out to PRC clients are earned through a program designed to

educate them on parenting, financial management and nutritional health. The program also helps clients learn responsibility while enhancing self esteem. “The failing economy is providing opportunities for PRC to help people in their distress,” said Leuck. During 2011, there were 664 clients contacted. They provided 37 pregnancy tests, 375 material services, 32 abstinence education and 72 Bibles. Fifteen babies were saved from abortion with help from PRC, and 54 babies were born to PRC clients. The services are provided to the community via three paid staff members with 51 years of combined service experience, and an army of volunteers. Staff includes Leuck along with Paulette Hazen, client services director, and office manager Sheila McLeod. “We have nine office/counselor volunteers, a six member volunteer board and over 100 additional volunteers helping with various projects,” said Leuck. The center provides training for its many dedicated volunteers.

4th Annual ST. PATTY’S All Day Party!! Sat., March 17th!

Live Music & GREEN BEER!! All Day! Irish Lunch Buffet! Jamie Marvin 5:30-8:30pm • Tripp N Dixie at 9:30-1:30 pm

LOUIE’S MAR CH ENTERTAINME N T Thursday, M SCHEDULE arch 1

810-667-1500

3301 Davison Rd. • Lapeer

Open Daily at 11 a.m. • Check us out on facebook.com!!

Myke Rise Friday, Mar ch 2 The Blue Ef fect Wednesday , March 7 Crash and Monkey Boy Thursday, M arch 8 Jamie Mar vi n Friday, Mar ch 9 Marlboro A dams Saturday, M arch 10 Sam & Jere mey Wednesday , March 14 Crash and Monkey Boy Thursday, M arch Davison Mag 15 pie Friday, Mar ch 16 R & R Ligh ting & Sound Li ve DJ

Saturday, M arch 17 St Patty’s D ay Party with Jaime Mar vin at 5: 30pm & Tripp N D ixie at 9:30 pm Wednesday , March 21 Crash and Monkey Boy Thursday, M arch 22 Jamie Mar vi n Friday, Mar ch 23 Nor th of M emphis Saturday, M arch 24 Stone Cold Wednesday , March 28 Crash and Monkey Boy Thursday, M arch 29 Myke Rise Friday, Mar ch 30 R & R Ligh ting & Sound Li ve DJ Saturday, M arch 31 Sam & Jere mey

www.mihomepaper.com

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 7-A

PROGRESS 2012

Oxford Overhead Door Co. 2118 Metamora Rd., Oxford • 248-628-4555 oxfordoverheaddoor.com

The entire team at Oxford Overhead Door is ready to help you pick out a new commercial or residential garage door. Call them today at 248-628-4555.

OXFORD — “Quality is like buying oats. If you want nice clean oats, you must pay a fair price; however if you can be satisfied with oats that have already been through the horse ... that comes a little cheaper.” This is on a wall plaque at Oxford Overhead Door Co., where owner Lawrence Moore and his employees pride themselves on quality in all aspects of their business. For more than 45 years (37 at the Metamora Road location), Oxford Overhead has been selling, installing and servicing garage doors. They try to keep up on new garage door technology and offer carriage and stained doors, which are “fairly new to the industry,” according to general manager Barbara vonKnipper, who has been with the company for 25 years. In addition, the company offers a wide selection of commercial and residential garage doors and glass from

C.H.I. Overhead Doors, Clopay and Amarr Garage Doors, as well as overhead door openers and parts. Serving communities in Lapeer, Oakland and Genesee counties, Oxford Overhead stands behind its products and workmanship. “We offer honest and reliable, friendly service,” said vonKnipper. The company also offers a free phone estimate to potential customers, and the staff first try to talk customers through “easy-fix” repairs to save them a more expensive service call. Currently, Oxford Overhead is looking to add an installer/service technician to its team of seven employees. “All of our employees are honest, trustworthy and conscientious,” said vonKnipper of the staff, who have a range of experience from three to 35 years.

Lapeer County Community Mental Health 1570 SUNCREST DR., LAPEER, MI. 48446 Committed to providing a range of mental health services to improve the quality of life for persons in Lapeer County through accessible, affordable, and effective care, treatment and education.

Some e off the e Servicess We e Provide • Psychiatric emergency evaluation and referral • Case Management and referral to community resources Customer care specialists at Rogers Pharmacy include (l to r) Natalie Fritch; Jason Bombaci; Jason Rogers, owner/pharmacist; Allison Moore; Leonard Page; Amy Marcotte; Jennifer Rogers and Jessica Leopard.

Rogers Pharmacy 316 W. Nepessing St., Lapeer • 810-664-0600 www.rxogers.com “When you go to a large pharmacy chain LAPEER — Rogers Pharmacy is an they treat you like a number,” said Rogers. independent family-owned and operated “We take pride in setting ourselves apart business in downtown Lapeer focused on from the large drug chains by knowing our providing the superior services that indecustomers by name, and providing the pendent pharmacies are recognized for. best possible health care with a hometown According to owner and pharmacist Jason feel.” Rogers, the pharmacy was opened in July Rogers is proud of the tradition of indeof 2007 “with the primary goal of providing pendent downtown pharmacies at its curexceptional service to the residents and rent location. “There has always been a families across Lapeer County.” Rogers Pharmacy offers a range of serv- drug store at this location,” said Rogers. Pharmacies such as Zemmer Drugs and ices including: customized prescription Des Jardins Drug stores have occupied the compounding, patient immunization therabuilding in the past. py, hormone replacement therapy, weight “We are not out on the M-24 corridor loss consultations, prescription medication that some people call Lapeer, and we don’t reviews, a generic drug program, free preget the drive-by exposure that those busiscription delivery, and a Yellow Jug Old ness get,” Rogers said. His pharmacy relies Drug program drop-off and disposal center more on customer satisfaction and wordfor old and expired medications. The pharof-mouth for business. “We have found that macy also offers patrons a retail section much of our business comes from the with a full compliment of over-the-counter many loyal and satisfied customers of medications, a wide selection of vitamins Lapeer County that relay their pharmacy and supplements, snacks and greeting experience to their family, friends and cards. Tailoring each patient’s pharmacy expe- neighbors.” Rogers Pharmacy was named a favorite rience is routine at Rogers. Pharmacy staff pharmacy in the Best of the Best section know patients’ names, and prescriptions published by The County Press. are prepared right away without the long waits associated with chain pharmacies.

• Outpatient counseling for individuals, infants and children, families, and the elderly • Group therapy for individuals with co-occurring disorders of substance use and a Mental Health diagnosis • Psychiatric evaluations, medication monitoring, and case consultation with family physicians regarding mental health treatment and integrated health care • Services for persons with developmental disabilities • Art Therapy programs including painting, acting, creative writing, and music • Inpatient Psychiatric Hospital Liaison and follow-up • Speakers on topics of mental health are available to speak to community groups • A Recovery focused model of service delivery using Certified Peer Support persons as part of our treatment team

Contactt us BY Y PHONE:: 810-667-0500 answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for mental health emergencies.

WALK-IN:: To be seen during our business hours, Mon., Wed., and Fri., from 8am to 5 pm, and Tues. and Thur. 8 am to 7 pm.

ON N THE E WEB:: county.lapeer.org/CMH

To o find d outt iff you u qualify y forr servicess call:: The Access Center at 1-888-225-4447

SMOKERS PALACE Discount Tobacco Outlet

Beer & Wine Check Cashing Unlimited Calling Plans

Good Stuff P.T.

Marlboro

16 oz.

3 packs

1249

Starting at

Kentucky Select P.T.

1249

1750

Expires 3-15-12 • Must present coupon at time of purchase

Smokers Choice

Premier Tube

Rave Cig. Tobacco

Carton

King Size Reg. - Box

Gambler Tube - Cut Cig. Tobacco

1199

189

Expires 3-15-12 • Must present coupon at time of purchase

8 oz

Expires 3-15-12 • Must present coupon at time of purchase

2899

Expires 3-15-12 • Must present coupon at time of purchase

586 S. Cedar St. • Imlay City • 810-724-0766 • Fax 810-721-1816 North side of Eastern Michigan Fair, next to Country Side Banquet Center

8-A • Sunday, February 26, 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Melanie DiCenso, CFP Concorde Investment Services 1061 S. Lapeer Rd., Lapeer, Michigan • 810-664-1326 www.melaniedicenso.com servicing. LAPEER — Melanie DiCenso hung out her Service is key to DiCenso’s business. She shingle in Lapeer in 2004, but she’s been in the said her clients “know we are always there for financial planning field for three decades and them and offer more service than most.” in banking for a dozen years before that. DiCenso added, “We pride ourselves in the DiCenso opened her brokerage investment fact that we always follow up with our clients business in Royal Oak in 1983 because she and have semiannual and annual reviews to sit had a “desire and interest to always help peodown with them and cover their changing ple with their financial needs and most of all needs from year to year.” saving for their goals.” While located in downtown, Lapeer She got her start in the financial services DiCenso was active in the Downtown Business industry as a bank teller and moved up to Association and frequently helped out with branch manager and loan officer before openthe Monday night car shows in the summer. ing her own brokerage. She’s also a member of the Lapeer Area After opening her brokerage investment Chamber of Commerce and the Metamora business in Royal Oak, DiCenso moved her Chamber of Commerce. office first to Rochester and then downtown As a certified financial planner, DiCenso Lapeer. She recently relocated to a new space helps her clients reach financial security by on South Lapeer Road in the city. helping them develop a portfolio of stocks, In addition to moving to new quarters, bonds, mutual funds, CDs, annuities and alterDiCenso added Peggy Schlaud to her staff at native investments. the beginning of February. Schlaud joined DiCenso and her staff help their clients to Bobbie Manns, who has been DiCenso’s prepare for the future by offering everything “administrative assistant and right hand perfrom a wide array of college savings accounts son” since 2005. to retirement plans, including IRAs, 401k’s and The pair, said DiCenso, do all the back up 403b’s. work, clerical, phone calls and a lot of client

The staff includes (left to right) Bobbie Manns, administrative assistant; Melanie DiCenso, certified financial planner/owner and Peggy Schlaud, secretary/receptionist. As a certified financial planner, Melanie helps her clients reach financial security by helping them develop a portfolio of stocks, bonds, mutual funds, CDs annuities and alternative investments.

Lapeer Dental Centre Mgt.

The staff at Lapeer Dental Centre want all of their patients to know they will be treated by experienced, qualified, and caring professionals. The office is always accepting new patients.

381 N. Saginaw, Lapeer 810-664-4542 or 810-664-4023 www.lapeerdentalcentre.com Dentistry. LAPEER — Lapeer Dental Centre Mgt., The office uses modern intraoral camInc. has been providing quality dental care eras and cavity detectors, which allow preto the Lapeer area since 1975. The four cise detection of tooth fractures and cavihighly trained dentists and eight experities. This technology provides patients enced hygienists are dedicated to treating with the opportunity to view, in detail, the patients with the highest quality of dencondition of their oral health. It is a great tistry. educational tool for the patient and helps Dr. Alan Charnley, Dr. Peter Mutch, Dr. Paul Schmude, and Dr. Nathan Mutch com- provide an accurate diagnosis. Along with the many services, Lapeer bine many years of experience in dentistry Dental Centre also submits dental claims and incorporate modern technology to to most dental insurance companies. provide the most up-to-date care for their There are no-interest payment plans availpatients’ dental health. able, as well as additional savings for nonServices offered at Lapeer Dental insured seniors. The office accepts all Centre include: bonding, cosmetic conmajor credit cards, debit cards and Care touring, braces, sealants, extractions, gum Credit. disease treatment, jaw/TMJ treatment, The staff at Lapeer Dental Centre want tooth whitening, veneers, dentures/parall of their patients to know they will be tials, root canal therapy, tooth colored filltreated by experienced, qualified, and carings, dental implants, crowns/bridges, ing professionals. The office is always clear braces, snore guards and bite accepting new patients. Special needs splints/mouth guards. Nitrous oxide patients are welcome and emergencies are (laughing gas) is also available for added seen promptly. comfort. Office hours are Monday, Wednesday The office has state-of-the-art sterilizaand Thursday from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. and tion equipment and is monitored by the Tuesday and Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. University of Detroit Mercy School of

LAPEER COUNTY VISION CENTERS

Craig Watson O.D. & Jeffrey Johnston O.D.

SALES & SPECIALS THE ENTIRE MONTH OF MARCH

• Primary Care Optometry Including Exams to Detect Glaucoma, Diabetes & Cataracts Same Day • Optomap Retinal Imaging System Service • Infants & Children Welcome Available With • All Types of Contact Lenses on Site Lab • Large Selection of Frames: For Many - Frame Warranty (For Adults & Children) - Frame Repairs Prescriptions - Saftey Frames • Saturday and Evening Appointments Available

Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Medicare, VSP, EyeMed, and most other vision plans accepted Two Convenient Locations to Serve You

$ Too many accessories to list. Stop in & check out our selection 1428 Imlay City Rd., Lapeer Mon. -Fri 7am -5:30pm

50 off

Complete Pair of Glasses *

Not to be used with vision insurance or any other discount. Please present coupon with purchase. Expires 3-31-12

129 W. Nepessing St. Downtown Lapeer

664-EYES (3937)

2048 S. Van Dyke (M-53) Imlay City Plaza

724-EYES (3937)

www.mihomepaper.com

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 9-A

PROGRESS 2012

Meditation Self-Healing Center 244 Law St., Lapeer • 810-245-1173 www.meditationselfhealingcenter.com

The Meditation Self-Healing Center of Lapeer is dedicated to helping people learn to practice meditation and a whole lot more.

LAPEER — In a world filled with seemingly ever-growing stresses, meditation offers a path to peace. Consistently practiced, meditation can bring calm to one’s emotional world, growth in one’s spiritual life, and positive health effects to boot. The Meditation Self-Healing Center of Lapeer is dedicated to helping people learn to practice meditation and a whole lot more. Roy Sexton, owner of the Meditation Self-Healing Center, practices what he preaches. After years of focused studies that have taken him around the world, meditation is a constant in his life. The positive benefits he has realized for himself through meditation drive him to share what he knows. “Prayer is talking to God. Meditation is listening to God,” says Sexton simply. Sexton’s meditation classes have picked up a following as more and more people catch on to the positive possibilities of meditation. Sexton noted that a number of his clients have come to him on the urging of their physician, as they

look for ways to cope with the anxiety and stress that can lead to a host of health issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, depression and diabetes. The center itself is a haven of calm and beauty, with a strong spiritual focus. Housed in what was originally a Baptist church built in 1873, Sexton reclaimed and renovated the building for its new purpose. He not only offers beginning and advanced meditation classes at the center, but as a Reiki master, Sexton teaches this stress reduction, relaxation and healing promoting technique as well. Other practitioners at the center offer yoga classes, hypnotherapy, Indian drumming sessions, and more. Sexton makes his center available for positive purposes. It is currently home to the OCD support group. Stop by the center for its weekly open house to check out the facility and meet Sexton from 2 to 3 p.m. Better yet, come at 1 p.m. to join in a gentle, guided group meditation.

Lynch & Sons Funeral Directors Capstick Chapel 542 Liberty St., Lapeer • 810-664-8282 www.LynchFamilyFuneralDirectors.com children chose to follow them into LAPEER — Mark and Katie Capstick, careers in funeral service. both licensed funeral directors, own and Mark and Katie represent the third operate Lynch & Sons Funeral Directors generation of that commitment and have Capstick Chapel in downtown Lapeer the pleasure to witness the gratitude next to Lapeer City Hall (across from the that families express for the exceptional post office). Together with their extended family of personal service that they receive at parents and siblings and other dedicated their funeral home. “Because our beautiful funeral home co-workers, Mark and Katie are proud to is so large and spacious we are able to continue a family tradition of dignified accommodate funerals of all sizes, large service. They have made a life of service and small. Here the family is able to to their friends, neighbors and others bring food into the funeral home to make who have heard of their compassionate their time at the funeral home more like service to those in need of assistance at it would be if they were at their own the time of a death in the family. home,” said Mark. “Ice water is provided Mark and Katie’s children Kaden, Abigail and Lucy are all lifetime residents in the visitation rooms to the families being served to keep the family comfortof Lapeer. able during their visits with friends and Their work is the continuation of family members.” service established by Katie’s grandparThese are among some of the little ents, Edward J. and Rosemary Lynch. details that reflect the effort Mark and Their exemplary lives of service to the Katie and their family make to anticipate communities they serve through funeral and fulfill every need families may have service was such a powerful example of Katie and Mark Capstick with children Kaden, Lucy and Abigail. meaningful living that seven of their nine at their time of loss of a loved one.

We Car ry Armstro Ceiling ng Tiles

Serving Home Owners and Builders Since 1890 New Homes • Additions • Doors Windows • Cabinets • Decks Pole Barns • Garages • Roofing QUALITY PRODUCTS AT COMPETITIVE PRICES

Many different profiles of mouldings at all lengths Bring us your project ideas… we can help from start to finish

814 S. Main St., Lapeer 810-245-4653

www.lapeergold.com

276 N. Saginaw St. • DOWNTOWN LAPEER

Phone (810) 664-8581 • (810) 664-1471 www.churchslumber.com

10-A • Sunday, February 26, 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Dave Knapp Used Cars 1949 N. Lapeer Rd., Mayfield Township • 810-667-0001 www.daveknappusedcars.com MAYFIELD TWP. — Area residents have many options on where to purchase their next used vehicle, though Dave Knapp of Dave Knapp Used Cars believes his 25 years in business and many happy return customers speak volumes. Dave Kapp was named a favorite used car dealership by readers in the 2011 Best of the Best survey published by The County Press. Dave Knapp also earned the kudos of being named the No. 1 used car salesperson. Knapp is proud to offer a wide selection of quality vehicles at affordable prices, especially in today’s stressed economy when people need their money to go farther. In addition to clean, safe and quality vehicles priced between $3,000 and $30,000, the Dave Knapp car buying experience doesn’t end at the time of the sale. Service of the vehicle is available as well. Bill Bright, born and raised in Lapeer, has been doing Knapp mechanical duties for the last 19 years, and knows most customers by name. Born and raised in the community,

Knapp has done business in Lapeer County for 29 years and in that time has come to know many of his customers well. As a result, he has a personal investment in the sale. Salesman Bill Johnson, with over 25 years of experience, manages the day to day operations as well as handling many sales. At Dave Knapp Used Cars, customers won’t be rushed at the door by pushy salesmen. Instead Bill Johnson and Dave Knapp pride themselves in letting the customer identify their vehicle needs and what they can spend, and then working with the customer to get them into the vehicle they desire. After selling vehicles for a quarter of a century to Lapeer County area residents, Knapp intends to maintain the hometown, personal touch that his customers have grown accustomed to. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle this year, don’t sign anything until you visit Dave Knapp Used Cars. For more information, call 810-6670001.

If you’re in the market for a new vehicle this year, don’t sign anything until you visit Dave Knapp Used Cars. Dave Knapp was named a favorite used car dealership by readers in the 2011 Best of the Best survey published by The County Press.

The Polar Palace Arena

General manager Janet Mann (left) introduces new assistant manager Matt Bendall (right). They keep the Polar Palace running smoothly. The center is also a site of fundraising events for a wide range of organizations.

TAYLOR

3301 Davison Rd., Lapeer • 810-245-7778 www.polarpalace.com The rinks are maintained under the LAPEER — For the past dozen years the watchful eye of general manager Janet Mann Polar Palace Arena complex has been home and her assistant manager Matt Bendall, to ice dreams for the Lapeer area and who played for the Lapeer Loggers before beyond. becoming the facility’s hockey coordinator. The Polar Palace is home to the Lapeer During its peak season the Palace County Hockey Association; three high employs upward of 20 people. It is also a freschool hockey programs, among them quent site of fundraising events for a wide Lapeer High Schools Hockey (which range of community organizations. The includes members of the Lapeer East Eagles Kiwanis Club recently began holding its and the Lapeer West Panthers), the weekly meetings there. Goodrich Martians and the recently formed From the casual skater to the serious LakeVille Coop (which includes players from competitor, The Polar Palace offers a wide LakeVille, North Branch and Dryden high range of programs and events for skaters of schools); and one of mid-Michigan’s largest all ages. men’s hockey leagues. It’s also home to ’93 “We pride ourselves in being much more Lapeer Storm, which brought home the than a hockey arena,” said Mann. 2009/2010 Minor Midget AA International Michelle Butterfield offers Zumba classes Silver Sticks Championship Trophy with an several times a week at the Palace. The facil11-0 season. ity also has a video arcade and a food court, All of these teams have access to two making it a family entertainment facility. NHL-sized rinks and eight large team dressHowever, ice remains the Polar Palace’s ing rooms with showers. The facility also main focus. In addition to hockey lessons at offers a girls dressing room and shower, as well as a separate referee dressing room and every skill level, the facility offers figure skating lessons and has open skating just for shower. fun. The Polar Palace has a U.S. Figure The complex has heated bleacher areas Skating Learn to Skate program as well as with seating for more than 1,000 spectators, USA Hockey Youth and Adult programs. in addition to a lobby viewing area and mezzanine viewing area.

BUTTERFIELD

HOWELL, CHURCHILL & JARVIS P.C.

ATTORNEYS

SAFETY FIRST

LAW

Lapeer County’s Largest Law Firm

Practicing In: • Personal Injury • Criminal Defense • Wrongful Discharge • Estate Planning • Divorce & Family Law • Child Custody & Visitation • Child Support

• Real Estate Law • Will and Trust • Social Security Disability • Medicaid Planning • Business & Corporate Law • Municipal Law • Probate

Gary W. Howell • David J. Churchill Steven D. Jarvis • Brian M. Garner Alicia Lewis Carl M. Riseman (Of Counsel) Emory W. Clark (Of Counsel)

Danger Zone!

Pass With Caution!

No one is immune from accidents • Serious accidents occur in all communities • No machine is completely safe • Tractors are powerful machines

Visit us on the web www.Taylorbutterfield.com LOCATED IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN LAPEER TWO BLOCKS WEST OF THE COURTHOUSE Nepessing St.

Courthouse

Saginaw St.

Fox St.

Taylor Butterfield

Court St.

M-24

Clay St.

Over 200 Years of Combined Experience

• Keep all safety guards or shields in good repair and in place. Do not allow riders on implements, unless required for operation or training. • Never allow children to ride on or walk close to moving implements, trailers, or wagons. • Never permit any person to walk closer than six feet beside operating harvesting machinery. Source: Kansas State University

Genesee St.

407 Clay Street Lapeer, Michigan 48446

Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

810-664-5921

lapeer.michfb.com

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 11-A

Lapeer Ultimate Linings

Ready to help you are: (left to right) owner Dan Laidler, office manager Dawn Laidler, office assistant/shop tech Shawna Laidler and dogs Hayley and Maggie.

1428 Imlay City Road, Lapeer 810-667-1939 www.lapeerultimatelinings.com together,” said Laidler. “I couldn’t do it LAPEER — As the 10-year anniverwithout her.” sary at Lapeer Ultimate Linings In April 2011, Ultimate Linings upgradapproaches, owner Dan Laidler looks fored their spray system to a high pressure ward to a year of growth for his already heated machine. The old system successful company. involved a 24 hour setting period while Laidler and his brother Daryl began this improvement requires no waiting Ultimate Linings when they moved their time. other business, State Contractors Inc., Lapeer Ultimate Linings provides a into Lapeer. variety of accessories for trucks and “We wanted to utilize all the space at SUVs including step bars, hitches, graphour new location,” Laidler said. “My ics, brush guards, chrome and camo father-in-law put a bug in my ear about accessories, and much more. spray-on bedliners and 30 days later we Lapeer Ultimate Linings has expanded were spraying trucks.” into spraying not only truck liners but Lapeer Ultimate Linings sells and many production parts as well. installs accessories for trucks and SUVs “Companies have approached us about but specializes in spray-on bedliners. As spraying all their parts,” said Laidler. a family owned, locally based company, March 1 marks the 10-year anniverthey put quality care and effort into sary of Lapeer Ultimate Linings and a every customer. decade of success. “If you want to suc“We are very critical of the quality of ceed in business,” said Laidler, “be the our work because it’s our business and best at what you do. Offer it at the best our reputation,” said Laidler. “We’ve price you can and stand behind your spent 10 years building a loyal client work.” base and are adding to it everyday.” For more information, call 810-667Laidler’s daughter, Shawna, works in 1939 or visit the website at lapeerultithe office and shop and his wife, Dawn, matelinings.com runs the office for both businesses. “She is the glue that holds it all

Greater Lapeer Transportation Authority 230 S. Monroe St., Lapeer • 810-664-4566 www.go-glta.org tion for approximately 187,000 riders a year, LAPEER — The Greater Lapeer many whom can’t afford a vehicle or don’t Transportation Authority, better known as need to as a result of the bus system. the GLTA, has been giving the general public Common destinations for riders are from of the Lapeer area a safe and reliable lift to their residence, whether a private home or their destinations since 1987. GLTA buses provide area residents with transportation to an apartment complex, to stores like Meijer, Walmart, Kmart and Kroger as well as to the medical appointments, work, school, shopdrug stores and other retailers in the greater ping centers and more. Lapeer area. GLTA buses come right to the rider’s curb Many students and their parents rely on or parking lot and drop them off at their GLTA to get children to and from school each stops in a timely manner. weekday. In addition, GLTA also transports GLTA is an Act 196 Authority that serves the City of Lapeer as well as the townships of many riders through a contract with Lapeer County Community Mental Health. Deerfield, Elba, Lapeer, Mayfield and Oregon. Wegher, who has worked for GLTA for According to GLTA executive director eight years, said without the bus system Carol Wegher, the authority employs 37 peomany senior citizens and other residents ple: three dispatchers, three office staff, two would be restricted in their ability to easily mechanics, one janitor and 28 drivers. and affordably go about their daily lives. It “Our ridership continues to increase on a provides a sense of independence to area steady basis,” said Wegher. In 2011 the servresidents to know they can plan on a ride. ice saw a 9 percent increase over the previGLTA buses are equipped with lifts to ous year. “We continue to do well to keep up assist the physically challenged. the demand. Since 2003 we have increased “We’re there when you need us. It’s all our bus fleet from 18 to 27 vehicles.” about the convenience,” said Wegher. Wegher said GLTA provides transporta-

The Greater Lapeer Transportation Authority (GLTA) has been giving the residents of the Lapeer area a safe and reliable lift to their destinations since 1987. GLTA serves the City of Lapeer, as well as Deerfield, Elba, Lapeer, Mayfield and Oregon townships.

HUNTERS CREEK CLUB PRO SHOP

Gifts For the Distinctive Hunter

Barbour • Browning Filson • Bob Allen Le Chameau • Beretta

Devonshire Retirement Village A Better Place... The

Place of Choice CALL FOR YOUR PERSONAL TOUR

101 Devonshire Dr. • Lapeer • 810-245-7646 e-mail:

devonshireretirementvillage@leisure-living.com www.leisure-living.com

675 East Sutton Road Metamora, Michigan 48455 810-664-4307 www.hunterscreekclub.com

12-A • Sunday, February 26, 2012

PROGRESS 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

Ross Automotive Supply 433 N. Saginaw St., Lapeer • 810-664-2929 www.rossautolapeer.com LAPEER — John LaClair began working for his father at Ross Automotive Supply when he was in the seventh grade. “I enjoyed working, needed money, and it grew on me,” says LaClair. Now, he has spent nearly three decades owning and operating Ross Automotive, providing Lapeer County with a wide range of automotive supplies. “We offer a complete selection of paint and body supplies including Dupont, Nason, and Valspar,” said LaClair. “We have the personnel with expertise and knowledge to answer any questions that customers may have.” Ross Automotive Supply currently has 11 employees. Their working experience at the automotive parts supplier ranges from seven years to 40 of experience. LaClair is quick to point out that all of the countermen are ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certified parts specialists as well. “We are the only 100 percent locally owned parts store in Lapeer,” brags LaClair, who sees the importance of not

only serving the community through business, but also through charitable organizations. “We support numerous charities and fundraisers in the Lapeer area. We are very involved in supporting the community we serve.” LaClair is member and former president of the Lapeer Optimist Club, president of the Lapeer Area Chamber of Commerce, a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church parish, a board member of the Michigan Automotive Parts Association and a volunteer at Thumb Correctional Facility. His father, Ed LaClair, is a life member of the Lapeer Rotary Club. Among the vast array of automotive parts Ross Automotive supplies is an extensive selection of hydraulic hoses and fittings. “Our hydraulic hose and fitting selection is second to none in our area,” says LaClair, adding, “We custom match paint to just about anything you can dream of.” Ross Automotive Supply also delivRoss Automotive Supply, Inc. in Lapeer offers a wide variety of parts for the auto ers to almost anywhere in Lapeer repair enthusiast. County.

Lapeer County Bank & Trust Co.

The Lapeer County Bank & Trust Co. has seven branches located throughout the county. This is the office on Nepessing Street in downtown Lapeer.

83 W. Nepessing St., Lapeer (Main Office) • 810-245-2950 www.lcbt.com most opportune loan services, according LAPEER COUNTY — With 110 years to Cady, is mortgages and mortgage debt serving the Lapeer community, Lapeer restructuring. “Residential mortgage County Bank and Trust Co.’s (LCBT) interest rates are at historical lows ... It’s motto “Our roots are here, not just a tremendous opportunity for anyone branches,” is a fitting statement and one that the bank takes seriously. “We under- with an interest rate of five percent or greater to take advantage of lowering stand the community,” said Bank President Bruce Cady. “We know the peo- their interest costs on their home.” ple ... Our customers are our neighbors.” Mortgages offered through LCBT are processed at the main downtown Their customers agree. LCBT was branch, but borrowers may apply at any named the No. 1 bank in the county in of the Bank’s locations. LCBT’s Retail the 2011 Best of the Best section pubLending Director, Beth Henderson, works lished by The County Press. to help potential borrowers make good LCBT was chartered by the State of loan decisions. “Many times, our job is Michigan in 1902 and formally opened in one of educating borrowers and helping downtown Lapeer in January of 1903. them to determine what is the best type Today, the Bank has seven branches of loan for their situation.” located throughout the county in Lapeer While banking at LCBT, customers (2), Elba Township, Attica Township, enjoy the perks of an experienced staff. Deerfield Township, Imlay City and Cady said about one-third of the Bank’s Metamora Township. 121 employees have been with the Bank Offering a host of services, including for 10 or more years, and several personal and business banking and loan employees have 40 years. and trust services, LCBT is a full-service Cady boasts that LCBT is the only bank. Customers can access their locally owned and headquartered bank account information online, over the in Lapeer County. “We’re a community phone, on their smartphones or in perbank first and foremost.” son. In the current economy, one of the

Celebrating 80 Years in the Mayville Community!

AVAILABLEE TO O THEE PUBLIC C IN N 2012 • LEAGUESS • OUTINGSS • BANQUETSS • OPEN N PLAY

The New Metamora Country Club is committed to offering a premium semiprivate country club experience at an affordable membership structure.

Food Center, Pharmacy, Subway and Do it Best Hardware

A NNUAL S EMI -P RIVATE Membershipss starting G OLF M EMBERSHIP F EATURES ass low w ass $500 0 annually • Unlimited golf with cart • Extensive golf tournament schedule • Social events • Pool • Locker room & club storage • Dining • Practice facility

O UTINGS & L EAGUES Now w available ~ calll forr detailss ~

248-969-2120r

Please call Rick Fleming for a personal tour or additional information.

www.metamoragolf.com

Special Services Western Union • Money Orders • Stamps • UPS Shipping Hunting & Fishing License• Fax • Digital Photos • Bottle Return Copy Machine • Lottery • Carpet Cleaner Rental • Certificates ATM Machine on Location • Subway • Pharmacy Mayville State Bank • Take Out Pizza • Propane Tank Exchange Floral Department • Cake Decorating • Coinstar • Key Making Video Rental • Dry Cleaning Pick Up • Garden Center

315 East Main Street • Mayville Store Hours: Mon. Thru Sun. 7am - 10 pm 7 Days a Week Pharmacy Hours: Mon. Thru Fri. 9am - 7pm, Saturday 9am - 4pm, Closed Sunday

989-843-6141 • Pharmacy 989-843-5440

PPROGRESS The County Press SECTION B

February 26, 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

Election year keeps focus on

GOVERNMENT The LCRC board, currently Doug Hodge, Dale Duckert and Joe Suma, provides oversight on the county’s roads, and it has its own funding mechanisms. e here at The County Press Most of the road commission pride ourselves on our revenue comes from the 173-year history of docuMichigan Transportation Fund, menting Lapeer County life. Lapeer drawing on fuel taxes. In 2012, County was incorporated in 1835, the road commission projects and a mere three years later The $10.1 million in expenditures on County Press was founded. We know primary and local roads, adminLapeer County. istration and capital outlays, In its simplest sense, Lapeer with $10.7 million in projected County today is a geo-political entirevenues. The work of the road ty that covers about 666 square commission is handled by a 51miles. Within its borders, it encommember team of operators, passes 18 townships, seven villages, mechanics, foremen, data entry, and two cities, all of which have bookkeepers and management. their own local governing bodies The road commission will which ultimately answer to the pophave one seat up for grabs this ulace. As of the 2010 United States year. Much is in flux relative to Census, Lapeer County is home to the road commission, with a 88,319 people. Transportation funding package During 2012, Lapeer County resiunder consideration in the state dents will have an opportunity to legislature. Legislation was elect their various local officials, Lapeer County’s Board of Commissioners (from left to right) Dave Eady, Cheryl Clark, Linda Jarvis, recently passed that opens the from township board members to Ian Kempf, Gary Roy and Lenny Schneider door to allowing county comthe county Board of missions to absorb road comCommissioners to a number of Grounds/Parks, to Emergency tions and expenditures are monitored by missions, but there is no indication right other county-level offices under the state Management, Community Mental Health, the administration and board of commisnow that Lapeer County officials are leanconstitution. So it's a great time to give Central Dispatch, Community Corrections sioners. ing in that direction. some thought to what it is that county gov- and more. The county also has debt service funds ernment does, most of which is to provide Commissioners also serve as members used to accumulate revenue and pay intera complex and diverse cornucopia of servMunicipal governments and liaisons to numerous other community est on long term debt. County officials ices mandated by the state. boards. pride themselves on their conservative fisTownships, villages and cities within the The county is also home to its arm of cal approach that has resulted in very low county also have their own governing debt, while at the same time working with The functions of county government the state judicial system, which includes boards, elected by the people. They develthe two judges of the 40th Circuit Court, the fifth lowest tax rate among the state’s op ordinances and enforce them, and hanThe county today is governed by a Nick Holowka and Michael Higgins, Justus 83 counties. The county has managed to dle planning and zoning — directly impactseven member board of commissioners, Scott in Probate Court, and two judges in rank a AA bond rating, which signifies the ing local quality of life. They arrange for or each of which represents a district within District Court 71A, John Connolly and county’s strong capacity to meet financial provide police and fire protection. They the county. Currently, the board includes commitments. may handle parks and recreation, or a Gary Roy (chair), Cheryl Clark (vice chair), Laura Cheger Barnard. They are elected positions with six-year terms. The District Finance administration some years ago cemetery in their municipality. They Dave Eady, Dyle Henning, Linda Jarvis, Ian adopted multi-year budgeting that allowed address local road issues. They may proKempf and Lenny Schneider. Each commis- 71A Court will shrink to one judge in 2013 upon Connolly’s retirement. them to plan ahead. They worked hard to vide other services, like sewer and water. sioner is elected for a two-year term. The Friend of the Court, headed up by project trends and prepare for them. Fully Local governments provide assessThe primary functions of the board of Emil Joseph, an appointed position, overhalf of the county’s revenues come from ments on property values, and collect commissioners include legislative oversees collection, enforcement, and investiproperty taxes, so the county has had to taxes, some of which go to their own opersight of county services, adoption of the gation for the Circuit Court relative to grapple with the drop in taxable values, ation, and the rest of which goes to county budget, equalization of county domestic relations. anticipating another 5 to 6 percent hit even schools, special assessment districts and property values, determination of the type In all, the county runs on a total staff of this year. At the same time, the county has the county. They also administer elections. and level of county services and appoint379 full and part time employees, 160 of had to deal with decreased state revenue Local governments depend on property ments to various boards. The lion’s share of the county’s responsibilities are mandat- which are represented by 11 different labor sharing, and underfunding of state-mandat- taxes, but also realize revenue through bargaining units. ed responsibilities. Another drain on the fees, permits, fines, special assessments ed by the state. county revenue stream is funds diverted to and state revenue sharing. “There’s a tremendous amount of differlocal municipal DDA’s and TIFA’s where ent topics. There’s so many different things The county’s fiscal picture they choose to capture funds from extra we have to deal with,” said chair of the Watch your government at work The county’s controller/administrator voted millages. That adds up to almost Board of Commissioners Gary Roy. “It’s a and chief financial officer are among those $700,000 that winds up going to local ecoThe government, after all, is there for constant challenge because the state and appointed by the Board of Commissioners. nomic improvement projects instead of the the people. The public is welcome to federal governments are constantly changJohn Biscoe has been the county concounty coffers. attend the meetings of their local governing their dollar allocations.” troller/administrator for the last 25 years. Thanks to all that planning, though, the ment, and give input during public time. He noted that the current commission Craig Horton is the county’s chief financial county has kept its head above the water. The county board meets every has faced the difficulties with a shared phi- officer. Under their careful fiscal scrutiny, Check out the county's dashboard, a Thursday at 8:30 a.m. in the basement of losophy that has helped them to get things the wheels of state-mandated and other snapshot of trends from economic indicathe county complex facility. They alternate done. “We may disagree, but we all get county services turn. tors to health, education, fiscal, quality of regular board meetings, where decisions along. We all still share ideas.” In all, the county maintains a 2012 annu- life, and public safety statistics at are taken, with committee of the whole Other elected officials currently serving al budget of $64.5 million, of which $18.7 www.lapeercountyweb.org. meetings where they usually spend more the county include the county treasurer, million are general fund dollars. The latter time exploring the issues. Dana Miller, county clerk, Theresa Spencer, is the operating fund for the county. Learn more about the county at their register of deeds, Melissa DeVaugh, proseLapeer County Road Commission Special revenue funds are used to direct website www.lapeercountyweb.org. cuting attorney, Byron Konschuh, sheriff, revenue to specific purposes or agencies. Although many people think the counThe road commission holds their reguRon Kalanquin, drain commissioner, John Although the county may not directly fund ty’s roads come under the oversight of the lar board meetings every other Freeman, and county surveyor, Ray Davis. many of a given department’s functions, Board of Commissioners, the county’s Wednesday, alternating times from 8 a.m. Each serves a four-year term. with money coming from the state or fedthoroughfares come under the watch of to 5 p.m. They, too, have committee of the The county’s Board of Commissioners eral government, it is still responsible to the Lapeer County Road Commission. whole sessions prior to their regular board also appoints a number of county posioversee. For example, although the county While the county is responsible for the meetings. Check their calendar on their tions or boards to oversee services. Those funds less than 1 percent of Community salaries of the three elected road commiswebsite, at www.lcrconline.com. services range from Public Health (which Mental Health’s $17.4 million budget, the sioners and has a liaison to that body, the The county’s various municipalities also spans from Animal Control to Senior federal and state revenue that supports Lapeer County Road Commission operates have regular monthly board meetings. Programs to Environmental Health), to the agency is still accounted for in the independent of the county Board of Check with your municipality for their Veterans Affairs and Buildings and county’s budget, and the agency’s operaCommissioners. meeting time. BY NANCY R. ELLIOTT 810-452-2601 • nelliott@mihomepaper.com

Expenditures By Type

Revenues By Source

County Expenditures By Type RECREATION & OTHER HEALTH/ CULTURE 5% 1% WELFARE 6%

PUBLIC SAFETY 32% PUBLIC WORKS 2%

County Revenues By Source

LEGISLATIVE 2%

FEDERAL & STATE 13%

JUDICIAL 25%

GEN. GOV'T 28%

LICENSE & PERMITS 0%

TAXES 50%

FINES 1% CHARGES 4 SERVICE INTEREST 11% 1%

RENT 1%

Lapeer County government touches on a diverse array of responsabilities. Half of its revenues derive from property taxes; expenditures are split among things like public safety and the judiciary, as well as public health, parks and recreation and general government.

OTHER 23%

2-B • Sunday, February 26, 2012

PROGRESS 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

McLaren-Lapeer Region 1254 N. Main St., Lapeer Lapeer Regional Medical Center is now McLaren-Lapeer Region. Q. Why has Lapeer Regional Medical Center changed its name? A. Lapeer Regional Medical Center is now McLaren-Lapeer Region. Our new name reflects our relationship with one of Michigan’s largest health care systems: McLaren Health Care. While our name has changed, our priorities certainly haven’t. As always, you can count on us for exceptional care and the same commitment to building a stronger, healthier Lapeerarea community. Q. What are the benefits of being affiliated with a larger health care system like McLaren Health Care? A. There are many advantages that stem from being part of a larger health care system. Speaking specifically of McLaren-Lapeer Region, our affiliation with McLaren Health Care gives us the financial strength to provide state-of-the-art medical facilities to the communities we serve, not to mention many critical health care services that would otherwise not be

available. McLaren Health Care is constantly investing in the latest medical treatments and technologies. And, as part of McLaren, we can offer a broad range of sophisticated treatments and technologies—right here at home in Lapeer. Q. What types of leading-edge services does McLaren-Lapeer Region make available to our area? A. McLaren-Lapeer Region is a first-rate full-service medical center, and we pride ourselves on providing community residents with a diverse range of top-quality health care. Currently, McLaren-Lapeer Region is taking steps to become the region's first and only certified Level II Trauma Center. As a level II center, we will have the capability to provide immediate, comprehensive and specialized care to patients experiencing multisystem, severe, potentially lifethreatening or disabling injuries. And, we will make this care available McLaren-Lapeer Region unveiled new signage featuring the new name of the hospital. The rebranding initiative was part of McLaren Health Care’s strategic around the clock—24 hours a day, plan to enable it to have a single identity that reflects the scope and impact of seven days a week, 365 days a year. the organization across the state.

Mott Community College 550 Lake Drive, Lapeer • 810-667-4166 www.mcc.edu.

Businesses in the Lapeer area also benefit from MCC’s Corporate Services, which provides customized training targeted to the needs of the business community. If you need customized training for your employees, call MCC Corporate Services at (810) 667- 6546. If your interest is traditional college classes, call (810) 667-4166.

LAPEER — Residents of Genesee and Lapeer counties have long known and admired Mott Community College as a critical force for higher education and economic development in our communities. 2011 was a banner year for MCC drawing attention and recognition from all over the country. First, President Dick Shaink was named “Community College CEO of the Year” in North American by the Washington-based Association of Community College Trustees. Then, another national recognition came when the U.S. Dept. of Education unveiled its new College Affordability and Transparency website and MCC was hailed as having one of the lowest net costs in the country. In December, MCC was named one of America’s Top 10 Community Colleges by the Aspen Institute. MCC’s commitment to making higher education accessible in the Lapeer area stems back for many years. In 1993, MCC opened its doors at the current site adjacent to Chatfield Schools. The MCC campus has a growing enrollment and is

expanding class offerings. Thousands of Lapeer County residents have flocked to the MCC campus at 550 Lake Drive to take advantage of this convenient location and get started on earning a college degree or to just update their job skills. Most new careers today require higher education degrees involving technology with advanced levels of math and science; knowledge and skills that are attainable at MCC. There are many other reasons to attend Mott Community College in Lapeer. MCC has smaller class sizes, offers transferable credits that are transferable to any college in the state, and provides a quality education at affordable tuition rates. MCC is also constantly updating its more than 100 different career programs with new programs such as media arts and entertainment technology and popular programs like business management and computer networking. The college also has a variety of health careers programs including nursing, occupational therapy assistant, physical therapy assistant and more.

PRIMARY CARE PEDIATRIC CARE INTERNAL MEDICINE “Dedicated to providing quality, personalized and individual health care.”

Mark A. Braniecki, DO

Timothy Piontkowski, DO

Albert Smith, Jr., DO

Curt Coulter, DO

Kenneth Jostock Jr., MD

Kathleen Fisher, NP

Janelle Keyser, PA

Jennifer Finos, P.A.-C.

Affiliation with Genesys Regional Medical Center and McLaren-Lapeer Region

Call for an Appointment (810) 245-5562 944 Baldwin Rd., Ste.A, Lapeer Located in the Baldwin Road Professional Center

Choose Your Style

Pine Tree Heating and Air Conditioning L.L.C. 504 W. Genesee Street • Lapeer • 810.667.3778

www.pinetreeheating.com WWW.HEATNGLO.COM

www.mihomepaper.com

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 3-B

PROGRESS 2012

Purified Water and Ice 1330 Imlay City Rd., Lapeer • 810-245-1420

Purified Water and Ice sells a variety of bottles, water crocks and stands in the shop.

LAPEER — Purified Water and Ice has been providing purified water to its customers since August of 2008. The water is purified using a six-step purification system with reverse osmosis that removes chemicals, pharmaceuticals, chlorine, organic material, and heavy metals from the water, which is then ready to be bottled or frozen for the 8 lb. bags of ice also sold inside the store. Describing his work in water purification in the past, owner Michael Cudlip said, “It just sort of amazes me what people would accept in their water,” adding that if similar substances were in food, “people wouldn’t touch it.” Cudlip, has been in the purified water business for about 13 years, and while living in Arizona, owned and operated a purified water store for three years. After moving back to Michigan, his home state, and working for six years at Arctic Clear, a purified water company, he decided

to again start his own water business. “I just saw a great need here... for affordable purified water where you could be in and out quick and have help putting the bottles in your car,” said Cudlip. Cudlip prides himself in the quick service at his business that offers customers eight indoor, high-pressure water fill stations available during store hours as well as an outdoor self-serve window. “I’ve had people bring in eight, five-gallon bottles to refill, and they’re out in five minutes,” said Cudlip. The indoor filling stations are self-serve, but Cudlip is happy to fill bottles for his customers. Purified Water and Ice sells a variety of bottles, water crocks and stands in the shop. Patrons may bring their own one to five gallon bottles from home or purchase new bottles from Cudlip and receive one free fill-up.

Community Driven Credit Union 71260 Van Dyke, Romeo • 586-336-1100 www.cudrive.org free ATMs in the U.S. and Canada. ROMEO — After years of having Roberts said the Romeo branch offers Almont-area residents wanting to open very personable friendly service from peoaccounts, the Community Driven Credit ple very familiar with the area. She noted Union recently expanded its field of memshe and one other employee at the branch bership to include people who live, work are from Imlay City and there is one each or worship in Lapeer County. from Ray and Washington townships and Community Driven Credit Union was Sterling Heights. created in 2008 with the merger of She said the credit union has come a Automotive Federal Credit Union (which long way from when her grandfather, who began as Automotive Federal Credit Union worked at the Ford Proving Grounds, was in 1965) and the M P G Community Credit CEO and the credit union was located in Union, which was founded in 1958. the basement of his house. Today, she Both were founded to serve employees said, Community Driven Credit Union can and family members of Ford Motor offer attractive rates, such as 2.49 percent Company facilities, the former for plants in on 60-month auto loans. the Ypsilanti and Rawsonville area and the Roberts noted that since Community later for facilities in the Romeo area. Driven Credit Union is a cooperative, notEmily Roberts, manager of Community for-profit financial institution organized to Driven Credit Union’s Romeo branch, said promote thrift and provide credit to memthe credit union changed its name to betbers, it can provide programs like Save-toter reflect its changing membership. Win. Members can win up to $10,000 by The credit union now serves anyone making $25 deposits to a 12-month Save-towho lives, works, worships or goes to Win certificate. school in Washtenaw, Macomb or Lapeer Like all credit unions, said Roberts, counties with offices located in Romeo and Community Driven Credit Union offers Ypsilanti, as well as service centers and lower fees and rates on its services and shared branching with more than 4,000 loans, while offering its members higher locations in the U.S. and the Co-Op ATM dividends on their deposits. network with more than 28,000 surcharge-

We offer many forms of medicine:

1235 S. Center Rd. • Unit 12 Burton, MI 48509 • (810) 743.8820

Capsules • Liquids • Creams Transdermals • Chewies • Suppositories

2600 Union Lake Rd. • Suite 120 Commerce Township, MI 48382 (248) 366.1118 1032 S. Linden Rd., Suite A Flint, MI 48532 • (810) 733.3833 396 Lake Nepessing Road Lapeer, MI 48446 • (810) 667.1962 1660 S. Ortonville Rd. Ortonville, MI 48462 • (248) 627.4084

The

Trusted 15

name in rehabilitation for

The Romeo branch of Community Driven Credit Union offers lower fees and rates on its services and loans.

Years

4-B • Sunday, February 26, 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Arnold’s Five Star Auto Wash 23 W. Genesee St., Lapeer • 810-664-8508

LAPEER — This spring Arnold’s Five Star Auto Wash will mark 11 years of making Lapeer County vehicles look better and last longer. “Our guys take pride in the work they do to make your car come out clean,” said Russ Arnold, owner of Arnold’s Five Star Auto Wash. “What I enjoy most about this business are the smiles on my customers’ faces when their vehicles leave the car wash looking shiny and new,” he added. Arnold’s customers are happy and they showed it by awarding Arnold’s Five Star Auto Wash with “Number 1 Car Wash” status in the 2011 Best of the Best survey published by The County Press. Arnold’s, which can handle any standard width passenger car, pickup truck or van, features the longest soft cloth tunnel system in the city. A longer tunnel means more washing equipment, which combined with fresh water, as opposed to recycled, “lets us turn out a better car,” says Arnold Arnold’s staff gives each vehicle a ‘prewash’ using power sprayers and hogs-hair brushes. That process, plus hot water in the winter and tepid water in the summer to get all the road grime and salt off, helps

preserve the life of your vehicle. Arnold’s has several wash packages to match any pocketbook from the budgetminded Economy Wash to the full works Ultimate Wash. Rain-X windshield and Armor All tire treatments are available with any package. Russ Arnold is a life-long Lapeer resident and 2nd generation Lapeer business owner. Arnold is a big supporter of several charities and non-profits in the area, including LACADA. “I just believe in their organization,” he said. Arnold says there is a certain amount of common sense to the old adage that says ‘a clean car runs better’. “Smart car owners understand that keeping your vehicle clean of road salt, grime, oil film and dust is every bit as important as regular oil changes when it comes to prolonging the life of your car,” says Arnold. “What else can you do for less than $10 a week that makes your car look great, protects the 2nd largest investment most of us will ever make and makes you feel good” Arnold says. And he adds, “Not to mention, you Arnold’s Five Star Auto Wash features the longest soft cloth tunnel don’t even have to leave the comfort of system in the city, which allows for the use of more equipment. That, your car to get that good feeling!” along with fresh water, gets vehicles cleaner.

Brin g Yo ur Hun ti Dog ng !!

Chatfield School students learn in an outdoor classroom. Students don new waders purchased by teachers with a Toyota Tapestry Grant.

The Chatfield School 231 Lake Drive, Lapeer • 810 667-8970 www.chatfieldschool.org

Enjoy a private farmland environment ting u as you hunt hard flying n u H hr ringneck pheasants, t h t 5 1 Aug. il 30th plump wild flying r p A chukars and explosive bob-white quail. Call 810-346-3672 www.farmlandpheasant.com Owned & Operated by Charlie Mann General Manager: Brett Rowley

LAPEER — The Chatfield School, nestled in the heart of Lapeer, offers the best educational opportunities for students in grades K-8. When parents ask, “How do I choose an excellent school for my child? What do I look for?” The answer is quite simple: Excellent schools have great teachers and great teachers inspire student success. Great teachers do not look at their class as a whole. Rather they examine each child to discover the individual, unique strengths and struggles. This individualized instruction and care enables each child to reach his or her full potential and to excel in areas of strength. The Chatfield School employs the finest, motivated, highly qualified teachers to maximize student achievement. Equally important in choosing a school is the school/parent/community relationship. Exemplary schools and parents unite in the expectation that children make good choices because it’s the right thing to do. At The Chatfield School parents are welcome, expected to be involved, and are highly valued. Chatfield School allows for children to develop their

stewardship through service learning and by reaching out to the community. Finally, an excellent school offers exceptional learning opportunities. The leaders of tomorrow need to be technologically literate while still having an excellent mastery of academic skills and the ability to effectively work and communicate with others. Individualized instruction, investment in technology, and commitment to environmental studies provide the base for educational opportunity at The Chatfield School. Additionally, The Chatfield School offers numerous extra-curricular activities, fine arts, and a full sports program. Chatfield School yearly receives an “A” by the Michigan Department of Education on the official school Report Card system; MEAP scores are at the top levels when compared to schools statewide. Most recently Chatfield has been recognized as a Michigan School of Excellence by the Michigan Department of Education. If you are interested in scheduling a visit, please call 810-538-1704.

Sports Center, Inc. 5605 Davison Road • Lapeer, MI (4 Miles East of Davison)

810-653-0490 LIMITED TIME ONLY

Polaris Year-End Close Out Promotion Coming Soon! CALL OR STOP IN FOR MORE INFORMATION

OPEN 6 DAYS Mon.- Fri. 9-5; Sat. 9-2

chapmanssports.com

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 5-B

Creative Compounding Center

Professionals at Creative Compounding Center are: (l to r) Wendy, lab tech; Cheryl, owner; Leslie, lab tech; Patti, office personnel; Lori, lab tech; Jane, office personnel; Diane, office personnel and John, Pharmacist. Not pictured are Melissa, shipping; Cheryl, office personnel and Gary, Pharmacist.

N. Van Dyke Rd, Imlay City • 810-724-3301 or one of many other flavors. IMLAY CITY — Creative Compounding They also offer some over the counter Center is a specialty pharmacy, who can make prescriptions for both humans and ani- compounded medications that may help you. Some people have trouble taking ibuprofen mals. (Motrin) because it upsets their stomachs. They need a prescription from your docThey offer an ibuprofen cream that you can tor or veterinarian, and then they can make apply to the area and get relief from the pain. the medication especially for you or your They also carry their own line of vitamins pet. and supplements and they will be carrying They make medications in many forms — the Young Living Essential Oils. capsules, liquids, creams, transdermals, Creative Compounding Center also offers chewies and suppositories. They also have Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. 150 different flavors to choose from, so they They do a consultation with the person and can make your medication taste good. explain how to do the saliva test to find out Animals take a lot of the same medicawhat hormones are out of balance. They tions humans do, only at much lower then work with your doctor to supplement strengths. They can compound any strength those hormones with a natural based horof medication your veterinarian may want. mone. They can get your hormones back Cats are usually very hard to give pills to, so into balance and get you feeling good again. they can make their medication into a liquid They not only work with Veterinarians form and flavor it with triple fish or one of and MDs, they can also help in the dental many flavors for animals. Your pet will love field, dermatology, pediatrics and hospice. the taste, and you won’t have to fight with Give them a call today and see if they can them to take it. They make medications for help you or your pet. Their phone number is dogs, cats, horses, birds and many other 810-724-3301. They are open Monday through unusual pets. Friday 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and they have an Animals aren’t the only ones Creative answering machine for after hours to order Compunding can help. Many humans have refills or questions. trouble swallowing pills as well. They can Creative Compounding Center is located make the medication into a liquid form and flavor it with banana, strawberry, pina colada at 631 N. VanDyke in Imlay City.

Muir Brothers Funeral Home

225 N. Main Street, Imlay City - (810) 724-8285

Rooms at Best Western Lapeer Inn were renovated recently and have “the softest pillow in town,” according to co-manager Kelly Hanna. Several guests have purchased a pillow to take home after their stay.

Muir Brothers Funeral Homes have been family owned and operated for over one hundred years. There have been funeral directors in the Muir family continuously since 1908. Five generations of Muirs have served in funeral homes here in Lapeer County. It is our desire and commitment to personally serve our Lapeer county families with compassionate, reliable, fairly priced professional services. Each of our staff has lost a beloved family member and understand the pain and grief that is felt when a death occurs. We understand the emotional and physical stress that is experienced after the death of a loved one. We will provide the sensitive, understanding support necessary during these difficult times. Survivors need their friends and family more at these times than any other time in their life. There is a special satisfaction we receive when we are able to help our friends and neighbors through these times; perhaps the hardest times of their lives. We understand the rituals of traditional church and funeral home services. We are well-versed in arranging alternative styles of funeral and memorial services, both at the funeral home and other locations. A Muir Brothers funeral director will work with family members, clergy, and friends to personalize each service. Many individuals like to pre-plan their funeral services so that they can add their own personal touch to the services that will be conducted. The Muir Brothers Funeral Home in Imlay City is here to SERVE our community.

Best Western Lapeer Inn 770 West St., Lapeer • 810 667-9444 bestwesternlapeerinn.com gift card to Ted’s Pub & Grill. “Our LAPEER — For the weary traveler local visitors use full enthusiasm to or local get-a-way, the Best Western book our couples package,” said Lapeer Inn offers a range of rooms Hanna. and amenities. Guests can take a Rooms at the hotel were renovated swim in the pool, work out in the fitin about 2009 and have “the softest ness center, relax by the man-made pillow in town,” according to Hanna. waterfall, play arcade games in the Several guests have purchased a pilgame room, eat in the on-site restaulow to take home after their stay. rant, Ted’s Sports Pub and Grill, and Other amenities and services at retreat to a whirlpool suite in the the hotel include a business center evening. and meeting room that holds up to 36 Lapeer’s Best Western opened its people, a guest laundry room and doors in 1984 and was purchased by daily dry-cleaning pick-up and delivNick Abdelnour and Robert Iseman two years later. Kelly Hanna currently ery Monday through Friday. Best Western also has an early check-in co-manages the 89-room hotel, and described the establishment as a hub time of 2 p.m. and a late noon checkout. of diverse guests. “We receive busiGuests at the hotel can enjoy its ness from all walks of the world.” convenient location. The Best Readers recently voted Best Western is located just 25 miles west Western Lapeer Inn as best hotel in of Flint’s Bishop International The County Press 2011 Best of the Airport; is within walking distance of Best section. several Lapeer businesses and Visitors and locals can take advanrestaurants; and has several boating, tage of the Best Western Package, hunting, fishing and camping opporwhich includes a one night stay for tunities nearby. two in a Whirlpool Suite, two movie passes to Lapeer Cinema and a $20

Muir Brothers Funeral Home Our Family Serving Your Family For Generations

Robert G. Muir, Funeral Director/Owner/Manager 225 N. Main Street • Imlay City

1-810-724-8285

6-B • Sunday, February 26, 2012

PROGRESS 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

Grondin’s College of Cosmetology 371 W. Nepessing St., Lapeer • 810-664-7683 www.grondins.com LAPEER — Grondin’s Hair Center, in business for more than 40 years and in more than 45 locations across the state, opened Grondin’s College of Cosmetology more than a decade ago. The salon has made a significant impact on Michigan with locations reaching as far north as Petosky down to Saline in the south. The college is based in downtown Lapeer and offers an array of opportunities for students as well as customers. Grondin’s offers licenses in cosmetology, nail technology and instructor licensing. For customers, the college supplies services at a discount. “We provide cuts, colors, perms, manicures, pedicures, waxing and more,” said Stacey Town, advertising director for Paul N. Grondin, Inc. Currently six instructors are employed at the College of Cosmetology as well as Marianne McNary, head administrator. One instructor, Jan Tamm, has been with the company for almost 12 years and Town said, “a wonderful asset to our business. The students love her!” Paul and Carl Grondin founded the salon business and school and now Paul owns the school and also owns 22 of the Grondin's Hair

Centers in Michigan. Paul Grondin has worked in Lapeer his entire life and employed his family in the business. His daughter, Town, serves as advertising director and his son-in-law as president. McNary has worked with Grondin since 1982. Because Grondin’s is a family-owned and operated business, the owners are able to personally witness the growth of students. “Our school is family oriented and locally owned,” said Town. “The owners are always at hand to see the progress our students are making.” Some of their students recently went to Skills USA competition and three of the students placed at regionals and will be competing next at State level. Kayla Morrel placed second in senior competition and Geralyn Carter placed third in senior. Leanne Schmaltz got third place in junior competition. Along with salon services, Grondin’s College now offers Princess Parties for girls looking for fun day at the spa. Girls may receive mini maniGrondin’s stylists pictured standing are (l to r) Lauren Burton, Kristin cures and pedicures, hairstyles and more. Smith and Stephanie Licht. Seated are (l to r) Sarah Seddon, Danielle Different packages are available and Princess Parties can be booked for birthdays, other spe- Hendry and Jennifer Khoury. cial events, or simply for a fun, relaxing girls day out.

Lapeer Team Work/New To You 1785 W. Genesee St., Lapeer • 810-664-2710 www.lapeerteamwork.com LAPEER — Lapeer Team Work is a not-for-profit community rehabilitation organization whose mission is to assess, train and integrate persons with disabilities, enabling them to reach their maximum employment potential in the community. LTW’s programs work to help its consumers make progress towards having choices, access to opportunities, skills and support to live, learn, work and recreate in the community. The organization works with local employers to solve their employment issues and/or other job-related issues by supplying them with employees or by using mobile work crews. They do this work to provide their consumers the opportunity to work. Whether a member of their mobile work crew has Austism or Cerebral Palsy, or is a person seeking New To You, located at 1785 W. Genesee St. in Lapeer, offers women, men, and chil- individual job placement and has experienced other barriers to employment... dren’s clothing, accessories and more, including a variety of jewelry vendors, they all want the same benefits from products that are made in Lapeer. working that the rest of us take for granted.

Now’s the time to replace your Air Conditioning & Furnace! Early Spring Special Lennox Gas Furnace

Starting at $1895 95% Efficiency

We service all brands! • • • •

Air Purifiers & Cleaners • Gas Piping • Custom Sheet Metal Humidifiers Hot Water Heaters • Emergency Service Fireplaces

L I L H

“Serving Lapeer County for Over 25 Years”

Heating & Cooling, Inc.

We do Insurance work too! 64 Lake Nepessing Rd. • Lapeer Free Estimates

810.664.0800

Licensed & Insured

Lapeer Team Work staff and trainees bring 24 years of experience to their customers. The crew consists of more than 60 workers and a complement of onsite job coaches who have been providing services for over 20 years to various businesses, churches, county offices and organizations through the county. Another important LTW program is Lapeer’s premier consignment store, New To You Consignment and Resale. It’s designed for the new generation of savvy, price-conscious shoppers looking for high fashion at incredible prices. New To You offers women, men, and children’s clothing, accessories and more, including a variety of jewelry vendors, products that are made in Lapeer and the opportunity to consign antiques, collectibles and vintage items. New to You Consignment and Resale provides a program for your organization, agency or group to Donate with a purpose, and will tailor an account to your group’s needs.

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 7-B

Lapeer Auto & Truck Plaza 1640 N. Lapeer Road, Mayfield Twp. • 810-667-CARS

Employees at Your Complete Auto Repair (Your C.A.R.S.), a part of the Lapeer Auto & Truck Plaza, include: Front row (l to r): Joe Stockman, Scott Strom, Debbie Stockman, Andy Tribbey. Second row: Eric Pringle, Brandon Ayers, Mike Darga. Top row: Gary Hutchinson, Dustin Nagle.

MAYFIELD TWP. — Debbie Stockman, who has run the Muffler Man franchise in Lapeer for the past 11 years, is a prime example of “The American Dream.” Stockman is in the process of transforming a closed new car dealership just north of Lapeer into a 14-bay repair garage, a collision shop, a parts store, a café and the largest used car lot in Lapeer. The new facility will “cater to the customer,” she said with two waiting rooms, a kid’s corner, free wifi, big screen TV and “many other comforts of home.” At her new location, which covers 13 acres, Stockman will have something she hasn’t had before — room. The space, said Stockman, will give her the opportunity to create many new events, including car shows at Lapeer Auto & Truck Plaza. Lapeer Auto & Truck Plaza is being developed at what was once Victor George Chevrolet. “We are bringing new businesses to Lapeer and will pass the savings on to the customers with great prices and warranties on our work,” said Stockman. In addition to her current 12 employ-

ees, Stockman said the plans to bring new employees to Lapeer Auto & Truck Plaza and she expects the other new businesses that will be opening soon at the facility will be hiring several more employees. At the south end of the facility, Stockman and her staff at Your Complete Auto Repair Service (Your C.A.R.S.) will offer the same high quality service her customers have grown to expect over the past decade at a new full-service site. While they will continue to specialize in exhaust service, Your C.A.R.S. will offer full repairs on all makes and models of vehicles, with its technicians performing everything from oil changes to complete engine replacements. Stockman, who has lived in and around Lapeer her whole life, said customers will find a family atmosphere at Lapeer Auto & Truck Plaza. She said not only do her sons and daughter work for her, but her managers, Mike Darga, Gary Hutchinson, Dustin Nagle and Scott Strom, as well as the rest of her staff are like family as well.

A Comprehensive Dermatology Center (810) 245-9380 www.abetterskin.com LAPEER — Offering the latest in the treatment of skin, hair and nail conditions, A Comprehensive Dermatology Center lives up to its name. The center opened in Lapeer in January 2012 and is headed by Dr. Ali Moiin and Dr. Mohammad Zarka. Dr. Moiin earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of California, Davis. He is certified in Dermatology by the American Board of Dermatology, serves as chief of dermatology at Harper Hospital, and trains future dermatologists as an Associate Professor of Dermatology at Wayne State University School of Medicine. Dr. Zarka received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, and completed a fellowship in dermatology with an emphasis in geriatrics.

Opening the Lapeer office has been a great experience for Dr. Moiin and Dr. Zarka. “I love the area and the people,” said Dr. Moiin, adding that the lack of a full-time dermatologist in the area is one of the most important reasons why he opened the Lapeer center. “We are bringing new ideas, new treatments and new perspectives to dermatology care in Lapeer.” The center specializes in the treatment of acne, Alopecia, Eczema, fungal infections, Psoriasis, Rosacea, skin cancers and warts. Dr. Zarka practices at the Lapeer center full-time five days a week. A Comprehensive Dermatology Center is located a half mile east East of Walmart in Lapeer. Same-day appointments are avail“I love the area and the people,” said Dr. Ali Moiin, adding that the lack of a fullable. Most insurances are accepted. time dermatologist in the area is one of the most important reasons why he opened the Lapeer center. “We are bringing new ideas, new treatments and new perspectives to dermatology care in Lapeer.”

8-B • Sunday, February 26, 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

CORA Rehabilitation Clinics 396 Lake Nepessing Rd., Lapeer • 810-667-1962 www.corahealth.com • Arthritis or Rheumatoid LAPEER — CORA Rehabilitation Clinics Conditions can help you conquer your limitations and • Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue get your life back! • Post-Op Conditions – Joint Aquatic therapy is an excellent theraReplacements peutic low impact program for you no mat• General Weakness/ Deter what your activity level. It allows you to Conditioning take advantage of the natural healing prop• Neurological Conditions erties of warm water to help relax muscles, • Gait Disorders/Balance Issues eliminate spasms, reduce spasticity, and • Orthopedic Conditions/Joint increase blood flow. Additionally, water Injuries increases buoyancy thereby reducing • Pain During/After Pregnancy weight bearing stressors, eliminating gravi• Weight Bearing Restrictions ty’s shearing forces, and decreasing your • Sports/Work/Auto Injuries swelling via hydrostatic pressure. Water acts as support for the spine or At CORA Rehabilitation Clinics your extremities that may be weakened due to treatmen plan is individually designed and disease, injury, surgery, or immobilization. is established for either complicated or This allows you to achieve a position of uncomplicated conditions/diagnosis. At comfort for movement and exercise not CORA Rehabilitation our licensed therapossible on land. pists work closely with your physician to You will be under the direct supervision gain the best outcome for your particular of our therapists so you do not need to condition. know how to swim in order to participate. Aquatic Therapy is the answer if you Admission to CORA Rehabilitation’s suffer from: Aquatic Therapy Program requires a physi• Chronic Pain cian prescription and most insurances are • Back/Neck accepted including Medicare. Problems

CORA Rehabilitation Clinics is the only place that offers aquatic therapy in Lapeer and that it is “definitely something that makes (them) unique,” said clinic manager Amy James. Aquatic therapy is used for several different rehabilitation therapies at CORA, including chronic pain, Fibromyalgia, gait disorder and post-op conditions.

Kapala Heating and Air Conditioning 1575 Imlay City Rd., Lapeer Twp. • 810-664-8865 www.kapalaheating.com

Customers are encouraged to visit the completely remodeled Kapala showroom and offices at 1575 Imlay City Rd in Lapeer Twp.

LAPEER TWP. — Hard work, professionalism and a belief that the customer comes first. That’s the foundation on which Kapala Heating and Air Conditioning stands. For more than 30 years, the family-owned and operated company has built and maintained a reputation for excellence providing and servicing residential and commercial heating and air conditioning. “We offer the very best products and services available today,” said Tom Engelman. He and his wife Janet own the business, which was founded in 1978 by Janet’s father and mother, Norbert and Rita Kapala. At the same time, always keeping the customer in mind, Engelman noted, “We continue to improve our organization.” Customers are encouraged to visit the completely remodeled showroom and offices at 1575 Imlay City Rd.

“Carrier furnaces are all new design and have the most efficient and quietest furnace on the market today,” said Engelman, of their main equipment supplier. And once you’ve settled on your new heating and air conditioning unit, you can rest assured Kapala will back it up. They stand behind their installations with 24-hour emergency service. “Three-hundred sixty-five days a year, our phone is answered by a live person,” Engelman said. “We do what we say we will do. Our customers know we are here for them when they need us.” The business employs a staff of 12. J.K. Seifferly joined the crew this year for business development, working with Kapala service customers and helping them understand what Kapala can do for them.

Do you have high-rate vehicle loans at another lender? Bring those loans to CDCU! Vehicle loans as low as 2.49% APR*, new and used odels.

FREE

Checking** • Debit Card Online Banking • ATM Service • And More!

Acne and Rejuvenation Chemical Peel 75% Off! for registered patients Adults & Children • Most insurances accepted

Same day and Evening appointments available Ali Moiin, M.D., FAAD

Mohammad N. Zarka, D.O.

Diplomate, American Board of Dermatology Associate Professor, WSU

Fellowship in Geriatric Dermatology

Romeo Office 71260 Van Dyke • Romeo, MI 48065 • 586-336-1100

1333 Imlay City Rd., Lapeer • 1/2 mile east of Walmart

810-245-9380 www.abetterskin.com

APR is the Annual Percentage Rate. Fees for extraordinary services may apply such as non-sufficient funds, overdraft protection, stop payments, check print charges, etc. Ask for details.

www.mihomepaper.com

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 9-B

PROGRESS 2012

Farmland Pheasant Hunters Brown City• 810-346-3672 www.farmlandpheasant.com

Hunters experience pheasant hunting like it used to be at Farmland Pheasant Hunters located in Brown City.

BROWN CITY — “Farmland Pheasant Hunters was founded by my brother Preston in the mid-1980s,” said owner Charlie Mann. “This is the hunt club for the bird dog owner who wants access to fantastic working farms that provide great habitat for pheasants. Hunters get their own farm to enjoy for the whole day. We have a small clubhouse with a nice fireplace were hunters can come in, get warm and have a cup of coffee. We are low on amenities but long on acreage, the perfect combination for the do-it-yourself hunter. It’s a place were a guy can bring his kid and show him how pheasant hunting was in its heyday of the 1950s and 1960s,” he adds. Farmland Pheasant Hunters general manager is Brett Rowley. Rowley, a hard working and jovial fellow, especially loves to see the young hunters in the field. “Nothing is neater than when I see a family — mom, dad and child — sitting on the tailgate of their truck, eating a sandwich with a big pile of ringnecks stacked up next to them. The kid is all smiles, the dog is happy and the dad is glad that mom

worked off some of her big butt walking the fields,” says Rowley, describing his perfect hunting day scene. Hunters arrive in the field anytime after 8:30 a.m. Michigan Department of Natural Resources permits are in a mailbox next to the hunting field. The permits allow hunters to harvest and transport pheasants during the Michigan Hunting Preserve Season which runs from August 15 through April 30. When the hunt is over, Rowley is glad to clean the hunters’ birds or they can take them home and clean them on their own. Mann says his big goal for Farmland Pheasant Hunters this year is to encourage more young hunters through special promotions. He plans to partner with National Shooting Sports Foundation in a youthhunting program. Hunting the old fashioned way is very affordable at Farmland Pheasant Hunters. Seasonal memberships are only $100 and hunting packages begin at $80 for adults and $10 for minor children accompanied by adults.

Tuesdays $ 00 Off

Any Car Wash

QUALITY WASHES AFFORDABLE PRICES FRIENDLY SERVICE BASIC WASH

Exterior Wash • Touchless Air Dry

DELUXE WASH Fisher Senior Care provides a place where people can reside comfortably for the duration of their stay.

Fisher Senior Care & Rehab Center 521 Ohmer Rd., Mayville • 989 843-6185 www.fisherch.com MAYVILLE — Fisher Senior Care and Rehab is a skilled rehabilitation and nursing center that helps people to recover in an atmosphere of trusted medical professionals, while honoring each person’s individual goals and desires. Their physician directed rehabilitation department is renowned for their ability to meet the rehabilitation needs of their clients and have them back in the community in the shortest time possible. Last year Fisher successfully sent 95% of their admissions back home after an average stay of 30 days. Fisher Senior Care and Rehab first opened in the early 1950s in a house in downtown Mayville. It later moved to downtown Caro in the mid to late 50s and finally settled at its current location in 1965. Situated on 20 acres, Fisher Senior Care and Rehab has been caring for the community for nearly 60 years. They are a community of individuals who live and work together. The relationships between the people they serve and their valued care professionals create a place where people can comfortably reside for the duration of their stay. Each of the center’s 78 employees have on average more than 10 years of experience, and Rita Hughes, Fisher’s employee with the longest

longevity, has worked at Fisher for 40 years. John Palmer, administrator says the center’s size and emphasis on rehabilitation sets it apart from similar organizations. “We only care for 53 residents, so we are able to provide our residents with more individualized, personalized care. We have the ability to know our residents and their families very well and build strong, lasting relationships with the people we serve.” The kindness and respect they show their clients has earned them their positive reputation and good standing in the community. At Fisher Senior Care and Rehab, providing the highest quality of care is the most important work they do and has earned them The Quality of Care Award and a 5 Star Rating on Medicare.gov. Fisher Senior Care and Rehab is owned by NexCare Health Systems. Their business is taking care of people, and their mission is to provide a person-centered approach to care that restores health, recovers abilities, and rejoices in life. Please contact them at (989)843-6185 to learn more about their center or to schedule a personal tour today.

Under Flush • Poly Foam Wax Rust Inhibitor • Touchless Air Dry

All Students $3.00 Car Wash

with Student ID

SUPER WASH

Under Flush • Single Coat Conditioner Rust Inhibitor • Clear Coat Sealer Poly Foam Wax • Touchless Air Dry

ULTIMATE WASH

Under Flush • Triple Coat Conditioner Rust Inhibitor • Sealer Wax • Side Blaster Dash Wipe • Touchless Air Dry

NEW CUSTOMERS Ask for a punch card and get 2 punches

810-664-8508 23 W. Genesee • Lapeer

Taking the Lead...With

Experience, People s and Technology

WEB OFFSET PRINTING • INSERTING • BINDERY • DIRECT MAIL 10450 Enterprise Drive • Davisburg, Michigan • 248.620.2990 • www.michiganwebpress.com

10-B • Sunday, February 26, 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Ray C’s Extreme and Harley-Davidson of Lapeer 1381 Imlay City Rd • 810-664-9800 — 1422 Imlay City Rd • 810-664-9800 www.raycs.com from manufacturers such as Kawasaki, LAPEER — Old Skool Dealer…The Old Suzuki, Yamaha, and more. Skool Way; Making A Difference in Lapeer “It’s more than about price with us,” Since 1981; We Ride What We Sell; We Sell said Robin Finkbeiner who is in marketing Fun; More Than A Business…We’re a and advertising at Ray C’s. “Personalization Family….Welcome to our Family; Our is what we sell at both stores. When you Customers come first; Owner on site-door come in to buy a product from one of our always open. Those are just a few of the sales staff, you’re buying more than two mottos Ray C lives by. Friendly, positive, wheels.” dedicated staff; Committed to building The dealership offers a Certified loyal customers and the people of their Warranty Repair Center and the service community is the backbone of this busidepartment boasts more than 184 years of ness. experience. In fact, the Dyno Training FAMILY…a key word with Ray C. While times have been tough economically, Ray C Center, number-one rated in the state, is where other dealers bring their customers has stayed strong in supporting his community and taking care of his 41 employees motorcycles to be tuned. One accomodation provided by Ray C’s and their families. Ray C believes in building trust with his staff, customers and com- is the free breakfast given to early- bird customers. Those coming in first thing in munity. You’re more than a customer the morning for service work are treated to when you walk into Ray C’s, you’re invited breakfast at Hungry Dan’s. to become a part of his family. Ray C’s offers a diverse line of products Ray C’s Harley-Davidson store was at both stores including Kawasaki, Suzuki, founded more than 30 years ago and has Yamaha, Bombardier (Can Am, Ski Doo, been providing quality products and servSea Doo, Roadster), and of course, Harleyice for decades. In 2004, Ray C’s Extreme Davidson. Store opened, offering new merchandise

The staff at Ray C’s Harley-Davidson pride themselves in their sales and service reputation. Store hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Ray C’s Extreme store is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Brian’s Transmission

Ready to help customers are (left to right) Pat, mechanic; Mike, manager/mechanic; Erin, secretary/office manager and Brian Bretz, owner. Brian’s Transmission offers Confidence Plus nationwide warranties on most major repairs. The warranty covers towing, a two-day care rental, parts and repair.

65 Columbiaville Rd., Marathon Twp. • 810-793-2999 www.brianstransmission.com transmission repair. As members of MARATHON TWP. — Brian Bretz technical support groups, Bretz and decided to start his own business his employees are also able to use a while laid off from General Motors network of experienced professionals and doing automotive repairs in his for additional assistance when needhome garage. Now, more than 21 ed. years later, that business, Brian’s Brian’s Transmission offers Transmission, is a full-service auto Confidence Plus nationwide warrepair and preventive maintenance ranties on most major repairs. If anycenter. thing goes wrong on a repair job with Brian’s Transmission has three Auto Value parts while the driver is employees, including two certified out of state, they can call Confidence mechanics, Mike Davis and Patrick Plus for access to Auto Value automoMcDonald. Both mechanics have tive repair shop partners throughout worked at Brian’s for about seven North America. The warranty covers years, and Bretz’s daughter, Erin towing, a two-day care rental, parts Ewalls, who joined the business in and repair, providing security and the past year, works part-time in the assurance to Bretz’s customers. office and helps her father run the During repairs, the garage offers a business. free shuttle service, both to and from Bretz and his employees attend the shop. After the repairs are finauto repair continuing education ished, Bretz or one of his employees classes throughout the year, and contact customers to follow up on offer a full range of automotive servrepairs and maintenance to ensure ices, from something as routine as an customer satisfaction. oil change to a more complicated

PURIFIED WATER

AND ICE SUPERSTORE “Your Bottled Water Refill Store”

Services Offered

Bottles • Coolers • Pumps • Water Crocks • Stands • Save Up to 70% On Purified Bottled Water. • Stop Paying High Bottled Water Delivery Prices.

Interior Cleaning $10 Includes

Vacuum Front & Back Seats • Floor Boards • Mats

• Stop Paying High Super Market Bottled Water Prices. • Eight Fill Stations For Quick Service. • Save Money At Home Or Business. • 24 Hour Window Vendor.

s Also E-Scentual e 100% Homemad Soy Candles

Exterior Cleaning $5 Includes

High Pressure Prep • Triple Coat Conditioning Shampoo • Rocker - Side Blaster • Underbody Spray Tire - Rim Cleaner • Clearcoat Sealant Rain - X Protectant • Extreme Drying (Stay in the Vehicle)

Detailing

Shampoo Carpet, Leather or Vinyl Re-Conditioning, Waxing

• 8 lb. Bag of Purified Ice Only $1.25. • Refills - 40¢ Per Gallon, Any Size Bottle.

See Us for Details

Interior & Exterior Cleaning Ultimate Wash $5 Interior Cleaning $10 Complete Detailing $75 - $125

• Great For Hydrponix 1330 Imlay City Rd., • Ste. E • Lapeer, Mi 48446

810.245.1420 1/4 mile East of Walmart on South side of road, West for Sears

Monday - Saturday 10am - 6pm Walmart Imlay City Rd.

Sears

Clean & Protect Windows • Dashboard Console • Mirrors Door Jams & Panels

Purified Water Refills

30¢ Per Gallon

No Limit

w/ Coupon • Expires 3-31-12 • Colonial Auto Wash

Senior Citizens

Save up to 60% off Reg. Prices

EXTERIOR ULTIMATE WASH

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

w/ Coupon • Expires 3-31-12 • Colonial Auto Wash

Downtown Lapeer Monday - Saturday 8-6 • Sunday 9-3

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 11-B

Pine Tree Heating & Air Conditioning LLC

Pine Tree Heating & Air Conditioning LLC not only sells fireplaces, furnaces and air conditioning, but accessories like whole home humidiers and dehumidifers, air exchangers and heat pumps. Pine Tree was originally founded in 1995. Art Meier has owned Pine Tree since 2001 and operates the business with his family.

504 W. Genesee St., Lapeer • 810-667-3778 www.pinetreeheating.com “Something we are very excited about LAPEER — Nobody knows better than that is new to our business in the past year Pine Tree Heating and Air Conditioning has been the Big Green Egg line of grills. about the weather extremes in Michigan. They truly live up to their tag line of ‘The They’re experts in the most affordable and Ultimate Cooking Experience.’ Grills are efficient ways to keep homes comfortable not a new venture, we just picked up the throughout the year. Pine Tree not only sells furnaces and air Big Green Egg line,” said Meier. Pine Tree was originally founded in conditioning, but accessories like whole 1995. Meier has owned Pine Tree since home humidiers and dehumidifers, air 2001, and operates the business with his exchangers and heat pumps. They also family. offer gas, wood and pellet fireplaces, “Our belief is that large companies can stoves and inserts and gas logs. often produce less quality work,” said “Our products are excellent quality and Meier. efficient,” said Pine Tree owner Art Meier. Meier and his son Kurtis are service “We pride ourselves on not selling or servtechnicians and installers, with occasional icing vent free products, because of the help from dad, Jerry. Art’s wife Ruth takes effects they can have on your health, mold care of accounting. and other problems in the home.” Meier urges people to come in and As the economy picks up speed, Meier check out all the good things about the is looking forward to helping customers make the most of their hard-earned dollars. new product line, along with the trusted products and service on which their busi“Many people are still struggling with ness was founded. The showroom is comhigh heat bills and less efficient furnaces plete with 26 burning displays. and fireplaces,” said Meier. He noted that Pine Tree Heating & Air Conditioning newer, efficient equipment will help people was voted a favorite in heating and cool“to keep the money they work hard for ing in the Best of the Best section pubinside the house instead of flying out their lished by The County Press. chimneys.”

Kohl, Harris, Nolan, McCarthy, Turkelson & Ogden, P.C. 4000 South Oak St., Suite 200, Metamora • 810-678-3645 www.metamoralawyers.com METAMORA — In 1966, attorney Malcolm Harris moved from Detroit to Metamora and began practicing law in Lapeer County. Today, the law firm of Kohl, Harris, Nolan, McCarthy, Turkelson & Ogden, P.C. is providing legal advice and representation for area residents. The firm is owned by Mike Nolan, Denis McCarthy, Tim Turkelson and Bill Ogden. All four owners, along with the rest of the firm’s staff, have an extremely long track record of commitment to community support through service clubs, charities and volunteerism. Including the four owners, the firm currently has 10 employees. There are six lawyers, and four staff members comprised of two paralegals, one legal assistant and one receptionist. They range in experience from 20 years practicing law to a new attorney fresh out of law school. The Metamora law firm has a strong reputation in the area, which is no surprise to Bill Ogden, “given the extensive background and experience of our attorneys, given we have

tried more cases than our competitors and especially given we have obtained better results and larger verdicts than our competitors.” Being technologically advanced is something the litigation firm prides itself on. The firm uses advanced legal software that helps with everyday things like scheduling reminders and accounting to in-depth fields of legal research. “I’m confident,” said Ogden, “no one spends more on research per month than we do at this firm.” Despite the economy, the firm has continued to grow and expand to better provide for its clients. Last year a second office was opened in Caro. Kohl, Harris, Nolan, McCarthy, Turkelson & Ogden, P.C. is the only Lapeer County law firm over the past five years that has added employees and opened and maintained a second office. Ogden added, “We provide a degree of professionalism that people can recognize and refer.”

Kohl, Harris, Nolan, McCarthy, Turkelson & Ogden, P.C. is the only Lapeer County law firm over the past five years that has added employees and opened and maintains a second office. In addition to the firm’s Metamora office on Oak Street (above), a second office has been opened in Caro to serve customers in Tuscola County.

MEN • WOMEN • CHILDREN

Get Well • Birthday • Hospital Anniversary • Proms • Mothers Day

• Texturize Cuts • Color • Hi & Low Lites • Foil Techniques • Perms • Facial Waxing • Styles & Up-Dos for All Special Occasions

Specializing in Wedding Flowers

Teleflora - FTD ~ We deliver across the country, around the world! Inspirational Prints • Statues Garden Stones • Chimes • Gift Ideas Available in Store or Online Burkesflowers.com or burkesflowers.net 24 Hour Floral Vending Machine maintained at McLaren Lapeer Regional Hospital

Burkes Flowers

148 Nepessing St., Lapeer

810-664-9947

Owner/Stylist Vicki Chown “I work around your schedule.” CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT

810.664.5601

444 N. Court St. Ste B, Downtown Lapeer “In n The e Alley y Behind d Pix x Theater” Closed Wednesday & Sunday

12-B • Sunday, February 26, 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Michigan Web Press 10450 Enterprise Dr., Davisburg • 248-620-2990 www.michiganwebpress.com pers and niche publications of the kind we DAVISBURG — Michigan Web Press has been “delivering the news” for more than 30 produce for our clients are not going away any time soon. Our industry is seeing more years. The commercial web-offset printing of these types of publications created each company prints for more than 200 different year.” daily, weekly and monthly newspapers and The company prides itself on high-qualiperiodicals from throughout Michigan, Ohio ty printing and exceptional customer servand Indiana. ice. Hagerman talks about Michigan Web The printing company’s clients include Press’ customer focus: “Our responsibility The County Press, View Newspapers, C&G to our customers is two-fold. First, we must Newspapers, The Monroe Evening News, stay on top of printing technology to deliver The (MSU) State News, and The (U-M) the best printed product at the lowest cost Michigan Daily. One of the company’s main strengths has to our customers. Secondly, we must make sure we understand our customers’ changbeen steadily upgrading their equipment and capabilities, including the installation of ing needs and show them how to utilize the technology to their greatest benefit.” a state-of-art Goss Magnum web printing Michigan Web Press has a staff of about press. The Magnum press can produce a 4850 employees and operates 24-hours-a-day, page full color newspaper at 40,000 copies seven-days-a-week to give their customers per hour. the fastest turnaround times. In addition to printing, the company also Hagerman is proud of the company’s performs preprint inserting, bindery servictrack record when it comes to meeting cuses and direct mail fulfillment. tomers’ deadlines. “We rarely miss a delivWhile the newspaper business has ery deadline. We understand the imporundergone significant change in recent years, Michigan Web Press’ clients have per- tance of getting the printed news delivered to our customers’ readers on time and we severed. Todd Hagerman, the company’s do whatever it takes to make that happen general manager, explains, “Regardless of every single day.” what the pundits say, community newspa-

o Cecil Batchelor, Plant Manager at Michigan Web Press, adjusts the controls of the company's state of the art Goss Magnum printing press.

Lifestyles Flooring & Design Tim Look, 810 965-8727; Neicy Kowalczyk, 810 877-8474

Co-owners Neicy and Tim invite Lapeer residents to contact them for a free inhome consultation. You’ll be glad you did.

DAVISON — Lifestyles Flooring & Design is excited to announce “We are expanding! Please help us welcome Neicy Kowalczyk to our team.” “I’m thrilled to have Neicy join me as a co-owner and Chief Marketing Officer. She is a proven marketing expert. I’ve watched her successfully brand and grow businesses for many years,” said Tim Look. “Neicy is a certified master networker. She’s very good at building strategic partnerships with other industry leaders which allows us to provide bundled services that enhance the customer’s overall experience and satisfaction. Her passions and commitment to customer service along with a strong desire to give back to the community made her the perfect choice,” said Look. Neicy combines real world marketing experience with a high energy, positive attitude to produce results. She understands that at the heart of any strong word of mouth marketing program there must be a powerful, diverse, reliable network of contacts. It’s all about building strong relationships based on trust, “My top priority with Lifestyles Flooring &

Design is to continue to build on an already great brand. People should recognize us not only for that great products and services we provide but because we put our reputation on the line with every job. Marketing is a process. It’s not something you do for awhile and stop,” Look said. Tim understands and shares these core values when combined with his 30 years of experience in the flooring and design industry. “I believe our company stands alone at the top and is well positioned for steady growth in the future,” he said. Tim has a background in interior design through Baker College, furniture experience gained while managing the former Peerless store, and 30 years in the floor covering industry. The company strives to provide customers much more value when shopping for floor covering. The company works on large and small jobs ranging from commercial buildings to simple carpet repairs. The installation crews at Lifestyles Flooring & Design are very conscientious while working in the customer’s home.

1422 Imlay City Rd., Lapeer 810-664-9800

Earn Points when shopping at Ray C’s. Redeem points for future purchases. Start earning today. See website for complete details.

*Finance offer subject to credit approval, applies to purchases of new Yamaha Motorcycles, ATVs & Scooters made on a Yamaha Installment Financing loan account from 1/1/12-6/30/12. Minimum contract length 24 months, maximum 36 months. Minimum amount financed $5,000. Fixed APR of 3.99%, 4.99%, 5.99% or 12.99% will be assigned based on credit approval criteria. Monthly payments per $1,000 financed based on 36-month term are $29.52 at 3.99%, $29.97 at 4.99%, $30.42 at 5.99% and $33.69 at 12.99%. **Customer Cash offer good on select 2011 d onlyy in n thee U.S.,, excluding g thee statee off Hawaii. Dress properly for your ride with a (and prior year) models between 1/1/12 - 6/30/12. Offerr good helmet, eye protection, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, gloves and boots. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely and respect the environment. For further information regarding the MSF course, please call 1-800-446-9227. ATVs with engine sizes over 90cc are recommended for use only by riders age 16 years and older. Yamaha recommends that all ATV riders take an approved training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887- 2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always avoid paved surfaces. Never ride on public roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing; never carry passengers; never engage in stunt riding; riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix; avoid excessive speed; and be particularly careful on difficult terrain. Professional riders depicted on closed courses. ©2012 Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A. All rights reserved • yamaha-motor.coom

PPROGRESS The County Press

February 26, 2012

SECTION C

www.mihomepaper.com

AGRICULTURE still tops in county

BY PHIL FOLEY 810-452-2616 • pfoley@mihomepaper.com

Although Champion Bus could have moved out of the community and state following a devastating Valentine’s Day fire in 2010, they chose to stay and rebuild.

MANUFACTURING appears on an upswing She noted a business has been scouting the former Tapco facility, which at eight acres is the largest single site in the industrial park. n 2007, the last time the U.S. “Everybody’s seeing an upturn,” Census Bureau conducted its said Marrone, noting that several of Economic Census, manufacturing the city’s manufacturers are talking looked relatively rosy in Lapeer County. The Bureau reported manufac- about adding employees this year. “It’s turers in the county had shipped $1.14 a great sign the economy is turning around,” she said. billion worth of product. In Almont, Downtown Development While the report showed a $1.4 milAuthority Director Nancy Boxey said, lion increase in manufacturing output “I am just excited about 2012. I’ve over the previous Economic Census already seen so many positive things. five years earlier, the bottom was I’m feeling pretty good this year.” about to fall out. Boxey said she’s seen “an uptick in Unemployment stood at 10.3 perpeople looking at industrial property.” cent at the beginning of 2007 and by She said one out-of-county manufacthe end of the year had fallen to 8.9, turer is looking to after dropping to move into a 5,0006.9 percent in square-foot faciliAugust and ty in the Almont September. Then area and add jobs. the recession hit. She said most Unemployment of the manufacturnumbers began risers in her area ing from 8.8 percent seem to have stain September of bilized their work2008 to a peak of 20 forces and many percent in January are looking to 2010. For much of expand this year. the past two years, Even in tiny the number has Clifford, the manhung in the mid- to ufacturing picture low-teens. seems to be However, the brightening. unemployment Rochester Gear is began slowly declinpoised to add ing from a high of another 20-25 jobs more than 15 perthis year and cent at the beginAdvanced ning of last year to Drainage Systems, 12.1 percent at the Inc. is set to put beginning of this High tech firm Grid Logic is an 15 people to work year. example of the changing face of making corrugated “The economy is industry in the county. plastic pipe just starting to turn,” north of town. Imlay City Commissioner Walt Bargen, In Lapeer, City Manager Dale who is also a banker with Lapeer Kerbyson noted the auto parts maker County Bank & Trust, observed at a Gestamp added 40,000 square feet and recent city commission meeting. an extra shift, creating 50 jobs at its Ten manufacturers across Lapeer facility last year. He added, new busiCounty put 96 more people on the nesses moving into the old Lapeer payroll last year, according to the Metal Stamping building on Saginaw Lapeer Development Corp.’s annual Street have created 75 jobs. report. However, several had hiring Last spring Lapeer County, which plans that could more than double had ranked 11th on the Associated that in the near future. Press’ (AP) list of most stressed counMuch of that is tied to the rebound ties in the country in 2010, dropped in the troubled U.S. auto industry. out of the Top 20. Bloomberg recently reported that The county still has a long way to sales per auto dealer increased 9.6 go though. percent last year and may increase 9.2 Last year’s ranking, which looked at percent over that figure this year. The the economic impact of unemploybusiness publication reported the ment, foreclosures and bankruptcy total number of car dealerships and scored 3,141 counties with populaincreased last year for the first time tions of more than 25,000 and scored since 1990. them between 1 and 100, gave Lapeer Several auto-related manufacturers County a 20.41, making it the sixth have made substantial investments in most stressed county in the state and Lapeer County over the past year. In close to double the national average of Mayfield Township, Kamax, a fastener maker, spent $2.3 million adding 33,600 11.2. Local business leaders and governsquare feet to its plant and adding 15 ment officials are hopeful the county’s new jobs last August. Toyo Seat USA spent $3.1 million on ranking will improve significantly the new equipment in Imlay City and near- next time AP publishes its stress index. by DieTech Tool and Manufacturing “Almost everybody I call is doing began a $1.2-million project that something,” observed Patrica Lucas, includes creating a cold storage area executive director at Lapeer for dies and other equipment. Imlay City Downtown Development Development Corporation. She said the county’s inventory of available Director Kim Marrone said a local industrial space is at its lowest level in business recently purchased the years. 70,000-square-foot Mantex Building, Kerbyson said several manufacturwhich has been empty since 2008, for ers in the city are talking about adding an expansion in the city’s industrial shifts to their operations. park.

BY PHIL FOLEY 810-452-2616 • pfoley@mihomepaper.com

hile a handful of cattle quietly munching grass near a faded barn may evoke a simpler time, there is nothing simple about modern agriculture. “I went to college to farm,” said Rob Howland, a fourth generation farmer in Burlington Township. “You have be so on top of things.” Howland, who works 900 acres of corn and soybeans and keeps what he calls “hobby animals” — a few head of cattle for the family freezer and some sheep for his daughter’s 4H project, carries a smart phone and checks commodity prices six times a day on a laptop in his combine while he’s harvesting. Agriculture in Lapeer County is no small thing. According to the Michigan Dept. of Agriculture Food and Agriculture Profiles for 2009, the latest one available, Lapeer County had $69 million in agricultural contributions to the local economy split roughly between one-third livestock sales and the rest crops, placing the county in the state’s Top 10 in six categories. That, said Lapeer County Farm Bureau County Administrative Manager Gloria Ginell, makes Lapeer County second among the state’s 83 counties for overall agricultural production. Among the county’s Top 10 placings are second in the number of poultry operations, 182; fourth in sheep and goat operations, 92 with $326,000 in revenue; fourth in the number of farms using organic production methods, 20 acres; fifth in the number of animal operations, 701; sixth in directto-consumer sales, at $2.28 million and ninth in the number of farms, at 1,317. However, corn, said Phil Kaatz, an area field crops specialist with the Michigan State University Extension Service, is still king. In 2010 Lapeer County farmers harvested 4.42 million bushels of corn, up nearly 300,000 bushels from the year before. That compares to 2.21 million bushels of soybeans harvested in 2010, which was up 480,000 bushels from the year before. Howland, who is the third member of the Lapeer County Farm

Lapeer County continues to maintain a remarkably diverse agricultural industry.

Bureau’s executive committee behind the president and vice president, said that sugar beets have been making their way into the north end of the county in areas of welldrained soil. “It’s all price driven,” said Kaatz, adding that agriculture is a “constantly evolving industry,” with farmers always looking for something to give them an edge. “I think you’re going to continue to see more of an emphasis on consumerdriven agriculture, with a focus on locally grown vegetables and fruits,” he added. Recently North Branch’s Amie and Nathan VanDenBerg were among 298 agricultural operations nationwide to share in more than $40.2 million in Value-Added Producer Grants from the USDA. The couple plans to use their $298,788 to begin packaging onions for sale to consumers in grocery stores and specialty markets and begin moving their 100-acre Goodland Township onion farm away from bulk wholesale marketing of their product. “If you can find a niche market and market to it, you’re going to make more money,” observed Howland. While only 3,558 acres of the county’s 411,533 were planted in vegetables in 2009, that generated $10.62 million, compared to the $23.31 million generated by the 82,326 acres planted in corn, soybeans and wheat. And while those numbers seem huge, so are the expenses. Howland recently bought a used combine for $188,000, giving him $24,000 in annual payments over the life of the loan. But, he noted, having a custom harvester clear his fields would cost him

$32,000 a year. “Farming is more of a lifestyle than a job,” said Howland. “You are ultimately your own boss. We do what we want. We work hard.” According to the latest U.S. Census Bureau figures (2010), 90.65 percent of all Lapeer County farms are operated by a family or individual and the average age of the head of those farms is 54. Howland doesn’t see any dramatic changes in agriculture across the county in the coming year. For one thing, farmers tend to be cautious. Equipment is expensive and new equipment for an untried operation is risky. With scores of 10- and 20acre farms among the county’s 1,317, it draws the average size down to 159 acres, but the big operations bring big expenses and even a used combine can cost $150,000 or more. Average operational expenses across the county for the latest reporting year were $42,176. “Farmers have to think things through. You don’t want to jump on anything,” he said. Howland anticipates another year of tweaking. For instance, he, like other grain farmers, is putting in more onsite storage for grain. He said that saves him the cost of storing grain at an elevator and gives him the flexibility to send his grain to where it will fetch the best price. “It keeps us in control,” he said. In recent years as older farms have been consolidated into newer ones, some of the old traditional fence lines have disappeared. Howland noted that modern machinery works better on larger fields. “If you can clear it, you farm it. They are not making any more ground,” he commented. “The trends are very subtle,” observed Kaatz. “They’re not something you’re going to see overnight.” He added “In the longer term you’re going to see less live stock more grain and a shifting toward more vegetables.”

2-C • Sunday, February 26, 2012

PROGRESS 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

Lapeer Gold and Diamond 814 South Main St., Lapeer • 810-245-4653 www.lapeergold.com LAPEER — The staff at Lapeer Gold and Diamond in Lapeer is focused on providing Lapeer County residents with high-quality and custom jewelry for all occasions. Owner Steve Starking opened the business in 1998 and is still operating in the original location. There are seven staff members at Lapeer Gold and Diamond, ranging in work experience from three years to more than 50 years. “Our sales people aren’t paid by commission, so no one will ever try to talk you into buying anything,” said Starking, who puts an emphasis on customer service. It hasn’t gone unnoticed. Lapeer Gold & Diamond was named the No. 1 jeweler by readers in the 2011 Best of the Best survey published by The County Press. Lapeer Gold and Diamond has been using Computer Aided Design (CAD) for customer jewelry design and manufacturing for more than a decade. While the software has been successful for the store and helpful for customers, Lapeer Gold and Diamond recently took the next step forward. A brand-new 3D design software allows the local jewelers to design any kind

of product and lets the customer see exactly what it will look like in a three-dimensional model. Amy Holmes, Julie Caris, Mort Krasner and Carol Nakonezny comprise the sales staff at the store. Caris was recently nominated for the Lapeer Area Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year award. Mark Piechowski is the bench jeweler, Catherine Castaneda is the office manager and Starking stays busy working in each area of the store. “We don’t buy anything off the streets,” said Starking. “You won’t be buying your neighbor’s earrings or buying a diamond from someone else’s misfortune.” “I love Lapeer. This is a wonderful community,” said Starking. “Having been in the jewelry industry since the 1980s, I knew there was no place else I would rather do business.” Lapeer Gold and Diamond is the place to go to find “jewelry she’ll cherish, at prices you’ll love.” The Lapeer Gold and Diamond employees ready to help you are (l to r) : Back row, Lapeer Gold and Diamond was voted Mark, Jeweler; Steve, President, Mort. Sales; Front row, Amy, Sales; Kathy, Office the best jeweler in the Best of the Best manager; Julie, Sales and Carol, Sales. section published by The County Press.

Champion Bus 331 Graham Road, Imlay Twp.• 810-724-6474 www.championbus.com

Champion Bus has more than 194,000-square-feet of manufacturing space at its plant in Imlay Township. Champion Bus has the capacity to roll out more than 1,200 mid-size buses per year.

IMLAY TWP. — Through Middle English and Old French, Champion comes from “campus,” the Latin word for battlefield. Two years ago, Champion Bus’ Graham Road plant looked like nothing more than a battlefield. The morning after Valentine’s Day 2010 found half the 58-year-old company’s manufacturing space was a smoking ruin and many in Lapeer County’s business and government communities were concerned it might never open its doors again. However, less than a week after the historic blaze Andrew Imanse, president of Thor Bus, Champion’s parent company, flew in from Orange County, Calif., to reassure employees and local leaders. Less than a month after that, Champion president John Resnik announced the company had returned to limited production. Champion Bus, like its name suggests, had defeated all opponents.

Days after the devastating blaze Champion employees redesigned production lines and replaced all the data servers, critical equipment and tooling lost in the fire. “Our employees should be commended for their prompt and aggressive response to the fire,” said Resnik. “Before the fire had stopped smoldering, our staff had begun rearranging the production lines.” By early March employees rolled their first Challenger bus off the line. Available on a Ford and General Motors chassis, the Challenger can accommodate between six and 17 passengers, depending on the floor plan configuration. Founded in 1953, Champion Bus has been building cutaway buses since 1981. With more than 194,000 square feet of manufacturing space in its reborn plant and more than 300 dedicated employees, Champion has the capacity to roll out more than 1,200 mid-size buses per year.

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 3-C

Louie’s Sports Tavern 3301 Davison Rd., Lapeer • 810-667-1500 LAPEER — Louie’s Sports Tavern is the place to go for great food, great company and great times. Whether it’s a weekend of March Madness, a birthday party, business meeting or a night out on the town, Louie’s Sports Tavern can accommodate all occasions. Attached to the Polar Palace, on Davison Road in Lapeer, Louie’s Sports Tavern offers restaurant seating for up to 280 guests along with a banquet room that can fit up to 45 people, a semi-private room for up to 55 people, and a mezzanine with a fully-stocked bar and dance floor that can host a gathering of over 200 people. Along with a full menu ranging from gourmet pizzas to delicious burgers, slabs of ribs and specialty deserts, Louie’s offers ice cold beers on tap, backed by a wide variety of bottled beer, wine and a newly updated specialty drink menu. Louie’s now offers Michigan microbrew beers as well, with more than 50 microbrews to choose from in a bottle or on tap. Louie’s was named No. 1 brewery/pub by readers of 2011 Best of the Best sec-

tion published by The County Press. The tavern was also tapped No. 1 sports bar, No. 1 for its happy hour and No. 1 for nightly entertainment. Louie’s Sports Tavern hosts trivia every Wednesday night starting at 7:30 p.m., live music Thursday through Saturday and your favorite sports team on one or all of their 16 Hi-Definition televisions, the most in town. Louie’s features daily early happy hour from 3-7 p.m. with $1.75 domestic pints and $2.25 well cocktails. Their late night happy hour runs Sunday through Thursday from 9 p.m. to close with $2 domestic pints and $2.50 well cocktails. Lapeer natives Gary Adam and Rick Burrough own Louie’s Sports Tavern, which opened in December 2008. Louie’s management team includes managers Jenny Zeeman and Shannon Card along with Executive Chef Lyman Henry. Whether you are coming for lunch, dinner, sporting events or live entertainment, Louie’s friendly staff looks forward to serving you and your team a good time and a great meal.

The friendly faces at Louie’s Sports Tavern are (back row, left to right): Kim Edmonds, Amy Felczak, Jenny Zeeman, Kayla Griffith, Diane Woolner, Sherry Crego; (front row) Chris White, Tristian Knox, A. J. Mower, Greg Kowynia and Chris King.

Taylor, Butterfield, Riseman, Howell, Churchill & Jarvis

The law office of Taylor, Butterfield, Riseman, Howell, Churchill, & Jarvis is located in downtown Lapeer. Offering legal services are: front row (left to right) Gary Howell, Alicia Lewis and Steven Jarvis; in back row are David Churchill (left) and Brian M. Garner.

407 Clay St., Lapeer • 810-664-5921 www.taylorbutterfield.com planning, criminal defense, municipal law, LAPEER — Taylor, Butterfield, Howell, Churchill & Jarvis has deep roots in Lapeer real estate, wills, trusts, estate planning, County. The firm’s founder, the late Robert civil litigation and probate. Taylor, Butterfield’s clients include a majority of L. Taylor, began practicing law in Lapeer the municipalities in Lapeer County, as well County shortly after his graduation from as numerous individual and corporate the University of Michigan Law School in 1937. In time, Mr. Taylor became one of the clients, among them Lapeer County Bank & Trust. county’s most prominent attorneys. Significant changes have marked the As the practice grew, the firm added past year. One of the firm’s valued partadditional attorneys. The late Tom ners, Lara Stutz, suffered a tragic death in Butterfield joined in 1968, Emory Clark in December. On the positive side, the firm’s 1971, Gary Howell in 1974, Carl Riseman in senior associate, Brian Garner, had the 1975, Dave Churchill in 1979, Steve Jarvis honor of being named as a “Rising Star” by in 1990, the late Lara Stutz in 2007, Brian Super Lawyer Magazine in September. Garner in 2008, and Alicia Lewis in 2012. This honor only goes to the top 2 1/2 perThe firm grew by giving honest advice to its clients and working hard for them while cent of all young lawyers in Michigan. On another positive note, Attorney Alicia trying to reach their goals in the most ecoLewis, a 2005 graduate of the University of nomical way. The firm enjoys the highest Michigan Law School, has joined the firm. possible rating of AV from MartindaleShe resides in Oregon Township with her Hubbell, the premier national organization husband. Most recently, she served on the that rates law firms. See staff of the Saginaw County Circuit Court. www.martindale.com. Entering its eighth decade, the Lapeer Today the firm’s legal services include law office continues to represent its clients personal injury, Social Security appeals, in order to accomplish their desired goals. divorce and domestic relations, Medicaid

Then & Now

Alan K. Charnley, DDS PC

Paul C. Schmude, DDS PC

Nathan P. Mutch, DDS

Peter M. Mutch, DDS PC

• New Patients Welcome • Evening Hours Available • All Phases of General Dentistry • Accept Most Insurance • Payment Plans Available • Monitored Sterilization

Lapeer Dental Centre Mgt. Inc Located in the Lapeer Dental Centre Building

Computer Diagnostics • All Electrical Work Brakes • Air Conditioning • Tune-Ups Engine Repair • Engine Replacement Front End Work • Transmission Repair

Outstanding Service at Affordable Prices!

381 N. Saginaw at Nepessing St. in Downtown Lapeer

810-664-4542 or 810-664-4023 Hours: Mon-Wed-Thurs 8am-8pm • Tues & Fri 8am-5pm EMERGENCY CARE

www.lapeerdentalcentre.com

1200 Imlay City Rd. Lapeer

810-664-9040 Open: M-F 7:30am-6:30pm • Sat 9:00am - 2:00pm

4-C • Sunday, February 26, 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

M & N Market 5947 N. Lapeer Rd., Deerfield Township • 810-793-8801 DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP — M&N Market has been serving the North Branch area for more than 29 years. It is currently owned by Paul Mashni and has about 19 employees. The business was originally opened by Mashni’s school-teacher father, and Mashni and his siblings all worked in the store at some point when growing up. Mashni decided to stay with the business, while two of his brothers became lawyers and one a dentist. One of his sisters trained as a physical therapist and the other went on to work in sales in Plymouth. Growth is an important part of the M&N Market. Mashni has added to the store over the years and has a wide selection of products. The market stocks kerosene, propane, beer and wine, beverages and snacks, tobacco, lottery, and much more!

The M&N market also has a car wash, sells its own independent brand of gasoline and has a McDonald’s restaurant on the premises. M&N Market first opened in 1982, at its original location just north of the present site. The new store was built in 1994, then remodeled to accommodate the McDonald’s restaurant in 1997, and the car wash was added the following year. Mashni said that his business offers the total package. He regularly seeks out deals to pass on to his customers and consults with his team of store managers to keep the store running at its best. “What stands out about this business,” said Mashni, “is a long-term stable staff that’s focused on customer satisfaction.” M & N Market has served the Norty Branch area for more than 29 years.

C.P. Mann y Familia Farms Imlay City • 810-664-0503 www.upickstrawberries.com

g C.P. Mann y Familia Farms in Imlay City raises and sells fresh produce including strawberries, raspberries, sweet corn, fresh tomatoes, eggplant and broccoli.

IMLAY CITY — Charlie Mann loves strawberries. That love translates into a high quality treat for customers of C.P. Mann y Familia Farms. “I wanted my own source of strawberries for my family and friends so that we could be confident we were eating a safe and quality product,” says Mann. That’s what got Mann and his wife, Claudia Ramirez, started in fresh produce farming. Besides strawberries, the Mann family also grows and markets summer raspberries, sweet corn, fresh tomatoes, eggplant and broccoli. Strawberry lovers can purchase readypicked strawberries at the farm during the spring and early summer season that traditionally lasts for only three weeks, around June 5 –15, depending on the season. Mann's berries and other produce are also available at various retail outlets including The Pickle Barrel in Imlay City, North Branch Food Center, Volz's Farm Market in Marlette and Harvest Time in Oxford. This year will mark the Mann family’s fourth year of marketing ready-picked strawberries to their wholesale and retail

PROMOTING PROGRESS

Our knowledgeable, friendly staff prides itself on the Oxford Overhead Door name being synonymous with quality • Quality Employees • Quality Products • Quality Installations & Repairs Experienced Service with a Smile! Make a call today for the friendliest, highest quality service that other companies just can't deliver.

Customers of Oxford Overhead Door Voted Them the #1 Company for 2011

800-750-6867

2118 Metamora Rd., Oxford www.oxfordoverheaddoor.com

customers and their third season of Upicking. Mann studied Agricultural Economics and after growing soybeans and wheat for many years, he decided to try his hand at berry farming five years ago. “Compared to small grains, strawberries are very hard to grow. My first try on a small scale was a failure. The next year I went on a summer tour that the North American Strawberry Growers association offered in Ohio. During that meeting I learned how some of the best growers in the country do it successfully and was able to come home and replicate their success,” says Mann of his strawberry education. Mann now grows over 6 acres of strawberries, a half-acre of raspberries, 2 acres of sweet corn plus 5 acres designated for other vegetable crops on his Imlay City farm. This year he will also plant and harvest 50 acres of soybeans and 20 acres of wheat. Mann continues his agriculture education by attending seminars at MSU. “We want our footprint to be small and our product to be wholesome and as close to nature as possible,” says Mann.

In Lapeer County Lapeer Development Corporation is a community based non-profit, economic development corporation which serves and supports businesses in Lapeer County. Its purpose is to lead and coordinate economic development throughout the county. Service include: • • • • • • •

Starting a business Small business counceling Site selection Business planning Small business loan programs Job training Economic Club of Lapeer County

Lapeer County… A Community of Economic Excellence

LAPEER DEVELOPMENT CORP. Serving Lapeer County Since 1981 449 McCormick Drive · Lapeer · 667-0080 www. lapeerdevelopment.com

www.mihomepaper.com

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 5-C

PROGRESS 2012

Edward Jones — Mike Butterfield 1176 1/2 S. Lapeer Rd., Suite D., Lapeer • 810-245-5790

Jill McEvoy (left) and Mike Butterfield (right) can help you with all your financial planning needs.

Despite what the headlines might lead you to believe, overall the economy is growing, jobs are being added, company earnings have set records, oil prices are lower and the financial system in general is in better shape than the news indicates. Edward Jones provides financial services for individual investors in the United States and, through its affiliate, in Canada. Every aspect of the firm's business, from the types of investment options offered to the location of branch offices, is designed to cater to individual investors in the communities in which they live and work. The firm's 12,000-plus financial advisors work directly with nearly 7 million clients to understand their personal goals —

from college savings to retirement — and create long-term investment solutions that emphasize a well-balanced portfolio and a buy-and-hold strategy. Edward Jones embraces the importance of building long-term, face-toface relationships with clients, helping them to understand and make sense of the investment options available today. Edward Jones, which ranked No. 5 on FORTUNE magazine's “100 Best Companies to Work For” in 2012, is headquartered in St. Louis. The Edward Jones website is located at www.edwardjones.com, and its recruiting website is www.careers.edwardjones.com. Member SIPC.

The Home Depot 1500 Summit St., Lapeer • 810-245-3485 window for Pro customers.” LAPEER — The Home Depot’s values Abdelhak continued, “And for the convenguide the beliefs and actions of all associates ience of our customers we now offer Buy on a daily basis. Its values are the fabric of Online Pick Up In Store, ready in most cases the company’s unique culture and are cenin one hour or less. No project is ever too tral to its success. In fact, they are its comsmall, so stop by and see us soon.” petitive advantage in the marketplace. When it was founded in 1978 by Bernie Associate pride and its “orangeblooded” Marcus and Arthur Blank, The Home Depot entrepreneurial spirit are distinctive hallbegan changing consumers’ perspectives marks of its culture. about how they could care for and improve In Lapeer, Home Depot employs approxitheir homes. The Atlanta-based company mately 120-150 associates during peak seacreated the “do-it-yourself” concept, spawnson, most of whom are from the Lapeer ing an entire industry that now spans the County area. The store was named the No. 1 globe. lumber yard in Lapeer County by readers of From the start, associates have been able The County Press in the 2011 Best of the to offer the best customer service in the Best section. Open since March 2000, the industry, guiding customers through projLapeer store is Home Depot’s No. 1 store in sales volume in the five-county area that sur- ects such as laying tile, changing a fill valve or handling a power tool. Not only do store rounds Lapeer County. associates undergo rigorous product knowlHome Depot takes pride in giving back to edge training, but they also offer clinics so the community and provides excellent cuscustomers could learn how to do it themtomer service by building strong relationselves. The Home Depot revolutionized the ships with both do-it-yourselfers and contractors. “We are a one-stop shop for all your home improvement industry by bringing the know-how and the tools to the consumer home improvements needs,” said Mike and by saving them money. Abdelhak, general manager of the Lapeer Home Depot was voted the best home store. “Stop by our Pro Desk for all your improvement store and lumberyard and home improvement needs and check out favorite tool store in the Best of the Best some of our new programs offered for bulk section published by The County Press. purchases and the new two-hour delivery

The dedicated staff at Home Depot include (left to right): Gerry Nienaber, Chuck Walker, Debra Solcum, Patti Galvas, Marlene Panik and Brianne Bolte. The store was named the No. 1 lumber yard in Lapeer County by readers of The County Press in the 2011 Best of the Best poll.

Evercoat Lite Weight

Valspar Clear & Activator Kits

1595

Kit contains: 1 gal of AC200MSG & 1 qt. of HPC1Q

Gal.

“

9995 or $ 95 84 each if you

each by the case 4 to a case

per kit

purchase 4

Kinco Work Gloves

Thanks for the community’s support as we have rebuilt from our fire!

”

- Champion Bus, Inc.

331 Graham Rd. • Imlay City, MI 48444

810-724-6474

CRC Breakleen 19 oz Aersol Can

Various styles, thermal lined Price ranged from

5to99 $ 1647 $

Regular price

385

per can

or By the case 12 each

per pair

329

per can

RV Anti-Freeze Gallon

50 lb EVCO Premium Ice Melter

Regular price Regular price

18 $ 99 Buy 2 17 $ 99 Buy 5 16 $

99 Pail

Pail

399

gal.

or By the case 6 each

379

per gal.

810-664-2929

www.rossautolapeer.com 433 N. Saginaw St. Lapeer

6-C â&#x20AC;˘ Sunday, February 26, 2012

PROGRESS 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 7-C

PROGRESS 2012

Chapman’s Sports Center, Inc 5605 Davison Rd., Lapeer • 810-653-0490 www.chapmanssports.com LAPEER — Dale Chapman founded Chapman’s Sports with his wife Shirley in 1972. After racing in the snowmobile circuit for many years, Dale and Shirley decided to use their knowledge of the sport to sell Polaris snowmobiles, and Chapman’s was born. The spring after opening, the Chapmans began to expand their store to include boats. Two years later, campers, fifth-wheels and motor homes were added to the inventory, and Polaris ATVs soon followed. Chapman’s now offers a range of snowmobiles, UTVs, ATVs and boats. Chapman’s is owned and operated by four generations of the Chapman family and four of the business’s eight other employees have been with the business for six to 22 years. Dale and Shirley’s son, Dale Jr., is the current CEO at Chapman’s. Dale’s 95-year-old grandmother Alta does the book work for the business, Dale Jr.’s son Mike is the parts manager, and Dales uncle Rodney works in sales. Besides selling sporting vehicles, Chapman’s also offers parts and repairs,

as well as fishing packages that include global positioning systems, fish finders, trolling motors and radios. “We do a lot of service on outboard motors, snowmobiles, four-wheelers,” said Dale. “We pride ourselves on service.” The shop recently hired a new outboard motor technician who is Mercury Master Certified to work on Mercury boat motors. The business has done well in the past year. It’s 2011 sales were up substantially from the prior year, and Dale says sales of 2012 are already outperforming last year. According to Dale Jr., Chapman’s stands out from other similar businesses because of the sporting knowledge and involvement of its employees. “We are a power sports and boat dealer. All of the employees are involved in the power sports and the boating lifestyle, so they can relate to the customers.” Chapman’s Sports Center was voted Dale Chapman Jr. showing off some of the new Polaris ATV’s and the LUND 1775 the Best boat dealer in the Best of the Impact fishing boat. Best section published by The County Press.

Muir Brothers Funeral Home of Imlay City 225 N. Main St., Imlay City • 810-724-8285

The staff at Muir Borthers Funeral Home are committed to serving their community.

IMLAY CITY — Muir Brothers Funeral Homes have been family owned and operated for more than 100 years. There have been funeral directors in the Muir family continuously since 1908. Five generations of Muirs have served in funeral homes here in Lapeer County. It is their desire and commitment to personally serve Lapeer County families with compassionate, reliable, fairly priced professional services. Each of the staff has lost a beloved family member and understand the pain and grief that is felt when a death occurs. They understand the emotional and physical stress that is experienced after the death of a loved one. Muir Brothers Funeral Home provides the sensitive, understanding support necessary during difficult times. Survivors need their friends and family more at these

times than any other time in their life. There is a special satisfaction received when Muir Brothers is able to help their friends and neighbors through these times; perhaps the hardest times of their lives. At Muir Brothers, they understand the rituals of traditional church and funeral home services. They are wellversed in arranging alternative styles of funeral and memorial services, both at the funeral home and other locations. A Muir Brothers funeral director will work with family members, clergy and friends to personalize each service. Many individuals like to pre-plan their funeral services so that they can add their own personal touch to the services that will be conducted. The Muir Brothers Funeral Home in Imlay City is committed to serving their community.

8-C • Sunday, February 26, 2012

PROGRESS 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

Houghtaling Agency 168 N. Saginaw St., Suite A, Lapeer • 810-664-1421 www.haiinsurance.com insurance, professional liability and restauLAPEER — Houghtaling Insurance rant coverage including liquor liability and Agency, Inc. has been helping clients in Michigan for more than 52 years. The local, bonds. Houghtaling’s commercial lines agent is also licensed as a surplus lines independent insurance agency, founded in 1959, offers home, auto, farm, life and com- producer for higher risk commercial accounts. mercial insurance. The family-owned busiHoughtaling was brought up in an insurness has grown with the community, ance family. The business he now owns knows its people and understands their was founded by his father in 1959 who insurance needs. launched the business in the family home. As a general independent agency, “Being brought up in an insurance famiHoughtaling offers insurance coverage ly created a natural career path with the from a variety of high quality insurance opportunity to stay in a great town like providers, they’re not limited to just one Lapeer,” said Houghtaling. The agency company. Houghtaling finds the exact moved to its current location on Saginaw insurance you want at the best possible Street in Lapeer in 1979. price. “We are excited about our March 2012 “We are here to tailor your insurance remodeling project in our lobby that will coverage to your needs,” said owner and better suit our front office needs,” said president Gary Houghtaling. “1-800 and Houghtaling. internet insurance sellers cannot replace The friendly, experienced Houghtaling the expertise an experienced agent proteam looks forward to continued profesvides.” sional service in its hometown community. Houghtaling’s professional sales staff is The Houghtaling Agency was voted a comprised of four licensed agents with a favorite insurance agency in the Best of total of 102 years of combined experience. the Best section published by The County Not only can they help find the right perPress. sonal insurance; they are also experienced with commercial property and casualty

The sales staff at Houghtaling Insurance Agency, Inc. is ready to tailor your insurance coverage needs. (l to r): Gary Houghtaling, Laura Johnson, Lisa Mills and Jack Cardinell.

Wingert’s Food Center, Pharmacy, Do It Best Hardware

Wingert’s Food Center, Pharmacy, Do It Best Hardware goes the extra mile with good old-fashioned customer service. The friendly faces of the Wingert family are: front row, (l to r) Dale and Pat. Back row, (l to r): Tim, Doreena, Aaron, Holly and Jeff.

315 E. Main, Mayville • 989-843-6141 www.wingertsfoodcenter.com able to Wingert’s customers, Tim noted that MAYVILLE — Wingert’s Food Center is the business still goes the extra mile with celebrating 80 years of family-owned and good old-fashioned customer service. operated business in the Mayville commu“We still bag customers' groceries for nity. The company was founded by Marvin them, and still carry out to their vehicles,” Wingert back in 1932 with his sisters Jean, said Tim. “We try to get to know our cusMerle and Phyllis. Since then, four generatomers, and treat them as a person, not a tions of the Wingert family have continued number.” the tradition. With that attitude, Wingert’s is an inteDale and Pat Wingert, along with their gral part of the Mayville community. Not sons Tim, Jeff and Aaron now own and only does Wingert’s provide employment operate the store. It’s the go-to place for for 104 people, but the owners and employMayville and the surrounding community, ees serve on numerous local boards such Fostoria and northern Lapeer County. as the village council and DDA, as well as “We offer the convenience of one-stop non-profit organizations. shopping with our pharmacy, supermarket, Wingert’s plans to keep that focus on the bakery, deli, pizza, Subway, floral and a branch of the local bank,” said Tim Wingert. people of the community going forward. “We will continue to offer friendly cus“Wingert’s has been supplied by Spartan tomer service along with building customer Stores in Grand Rapids since 1988. relationships,” said Tim. “Our goals for 2012 Wingert’s and Spartan continue to work are to be competitively priced, with a together to bring their customers good, quality product at a competitive price,” said strong weekly ad to keep our customers coming back and at the same time welcomTim. ing new customers to our store.” Even with the variety of offerings avail-

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 9-C

Lapeer County Vision Center

Lapeer County Vision Center doctors are (l to r): Dr. Watson and Dr. Johnston.

129 W. Nepessing St., Lapeer• 810-664-EYES www.664EYES.com Lapeer County Vision Center has nine LAPEER — It’s said that the eyes are the winemployees at its Lapeer office, including dows to the soul. Dr. Jeff Johnston and Dr. Craig Watson have looked into a lot of souls since they Optician and Lab Manager, Doug Kollar. Doug has over 30 years experience behind him. With met at the Illinois College of Optometry in 1991. its own lab, Lapeer County Vision Center makes The Lapeer County Vision Center was named many of their glasses on site. the No. 1 eye doctor in our 2011 Best of the Best “Our customer service is No. 1,” said Watson. section published in The County Press. “We want to go the extra mile to help patients Both doctors are motivated by a strong into a great pair of glasses or contacts that help desire to help people. “We pride ourselves in them see better and look their best.” putting the patient first,” said Dr. Johnston. “We Lapeer County Vision Center is very active in want your experience to be a pleasant one.” the community, with Dr. Johnston as current They offer a wide range of services, including President of the Rotary Club, Dr. Watson in comprehensive eye exams for all ages, contact Kiwanis and Kollar is an Optimist. The practice lens fittings for all types of lenses, co-management of laser refractive surgery and cataract sur- is also active in the Downtown Business Association and the Lapeer Area Chamber of gery, same-day service on many prescriptions, Commerce. OptoMap retinal exam and glaucoma and The practice is committed to Downtown cataract diagnosis and screening. Lapeer. “We are here to stay,” says Jackie The doctors purchased the practice in 2003, Gibbons, Practice Manager. “We want to bring after working for Dr. David Bush and other optobusinesses back to Lapeer and make this downmetric practices. The long-established practice celebrated its 35 year anniversary in 2011. Their town alive again. We are currently in the process of remodeling our office, making it fresh and hours are from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondayriday and new, and we are really excited about it. Stop by Saturdays from 9 a.m.-noon. Evening appointand see what all we’ve done!” ments are available on Tuesdays and “If you are looking for quality care with a perWednesdays. The Imlay City office, located at sonal touch, we hope you’ll give us a call, said 2048 S. VanDyke Rd. (behind Lucky’s Johnston. Steakhouse) is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

WMPC Gospel 1230 AM 1800 North Lapeer Road, Lapeer • 810-664-6211 www.wmpc.org LAPEER — WMPC Gospel 1230 AM has been providing the Lapeer area with commercial-free Christian music, Message, and family friendly programs for the past 85 years. The local radio station, which was started in 1926 with homemade parts by Rev. Frank Hemingway and Rev. Hollis Hayes, was one of the first radio stations in the state of Michigan and is the oldest continually-operating Christian radio station in the nation. For many residents of Lapeer County, WMPC is and always has been a staple in their lives. For others, it is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered on the radio dial. It's hard to tell just how many lives WMPC has touched over the years, but one thing is certain by the stories they hear. Jesus is still at work in the lives of

those who come to Him. WMPC is a commercial free radio station, which means it relies solely on donations and support to continue operating. The annual Sharathon event is the single major fundraiser of the year and it offers several opportunities for people to give in unique ways. This year’s Sharathon is scheduled for March 12-14, with special programming, many guests and live in studio music. Local residents are also invited to visit the radio station at any time during Sharathon to take a tour and see how the station operates and visit their radio museum. Visitors are not expected to make any donations and everyone should feel welcome to visit.

he Meditation Self Healing Center of Lapeer is a large facility dedicated to assisting those interested in spiritual development and natural wellness. Situated in a church originally built in 1873, it has been beautifully and lovingly restored. Melding classical style and modern advancements seamlessly, it is the ideal place to begin or continue one’s spiritual development. Meditation, Yoga, Reiki, Massage and Hypnotherapy services are offered regularly. Individual and group classes offered in subjects including meditation, Yoga, energetic healing techniques (such as reiki) and the power of prayer and positive intentions. Space available for instructors and practitioners. Meditation is a powerful tool for stress relief and relaxation.

The Hemingway-Hayes Radio Museum shows a transmitter and other equipment used by WMPC in 1935. The museum is located inside the station, which is on M24 in Mayfield Township.

If You Want to Work the

Rest of Your Life, That’s Your Business. If You Don’t, That’s Mine.

Investment Consulting Retirement Planning CFP, Investment Representative Concorde Investment Services LLC Member FINRA/SIPC

Melanie S. DiCenso, CFP CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™

Phone: 810-664-1326 Fax: 810-664-1327 Email: mdicenso@concordeis.com Web: www.melaniedicenso.com

Meditation Self Healing Center 244 Law St. • Lapeer • 810-356-5021

www.meditationselfhealingcenter.com

1061 S. Lapeer Rd. • P.O. Box 755 Lapeer, Michigan, 48446

10-C • Sunday, February 26, 2012

PROGRESS 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

Springsteen Water Conditioning sells and installs a variety of products, including AvantaPure systems. The staff includes: (l to r) Rob Springsteen, owner; Mike Misener and Chase Springsteen.

Springsteen Water Conditioning 1991 N. Lapeer Road, Lapeer • 810-664-1230 www.springsteenwaterconditioning.com MAYFIELD TWP. — Customer satisfaction is top priority for Rob Springsteen of Springsteen Water Conditioning of Lapeer. “We cater to our customers,” says Springsteen, who values and appreciates his loyal customers. After 33 years in business locally, Springsteen Water Conditioning has a number of them. The firm installs and maintains water treatment systems and offers prompt professional service to customers. Springsteen is happy to be able to offer some of the finest water conditioning equipment available. The business also sells Dura Cube salt, including pick up and delivery. Springsteen Water Conditioning sells and installs a variety of products, including AvantaPure systems. For water filtration and purification, the firm has systems for reverse osmosis, rust and iron filters, G2 arsenic filters and more. Expert technicians are able to diagnose and repair any problems

More saving. More doing.®

STORE MANAGER’S SPECIALS 1500 Summit Street Lapeer, MI 48446

While supplies last

STARTING AT

EACH VALENCIA JEWELED CORAL LAMINATE COUNTERTOP • Durable, laminate material is stain- and scratch-resistant • Built-in backsplash helps eliminate crevices to prevent dirt and grime accumulation • Available in 48”, 72”, 96” and 120” widths

JOIN THE CLUB The Home Depot Garden Club members enjoy exclusive members-only coupons and discounts, access to an online community of gardeners, interactive tools, tips and advice from regional experts and more.

JOIN NOW See a Store Associate or visit homedeoptgardenclub.com/signup

(367056, 367452, 367518, 367584)

More doing. FREE HOW-TO KIDS WORKSHOP First Saturday of every month 9am-12 Noon

For more information on all of our home services call 1-800-HOMEDEPOT, visit your local store or visit us online at homedepot.com/install

For more information go to homedepot.com/workshops

997

64 OZ. DAMPRID® HIGH-CAPACITY MOISTURE ABSORBER • Eliminates odors, reduced allergies caused by excessive moisture • Prevents mold and mildew stains (5133359)

N All installation services provided by insured, licensed (where applicable) and background screened independent contractor The Home Depot Authorized Service Providers. License numbers held by or on behalf of Home Depot U.S.A., Inc. available at homedepot.com/licensenumbers or at the Special Services Desk in The Home Depot Store. Installation not available in all markets.

WAS $58

WERNER® 6' FIBERGLASS STEPLADDER, TYPE II • 225 lb. capacity • Most durable, nonconductive material • Ideal for household chores and electrical work (768090)

998

200-COUNT SCOTT® XTREME RAGS • Stays strong even when wet or when used with solvents • Convenient, multi-purpose uses (463256)

PREFERRED BY PEDS MORE THAN ANY OTHER BRAND

OUR SELECTION DOESN’T STOP HERE MORE CHOICES, MORE HOW-TO AT homedepot.com

The power of lower prices. Guaranteed.N TRUST OUR 10% PRICE GUARANTEE N If your find a current lower price on an identical, in-stock item from any retailer, we will match the price and beat it by 10%. Excludes special orders, bid pricing, volume discounts, open-box merchandise, labor and installation, sales tax, rebate and free offers, typographical errors and online purchases. We reserve the right to limit quantities to the amount reasonable for our regular customers. In the event of an error, we will make every reasonable effort to accommodate our customer. Details on any product warranty available in store.

FOLLOW THE HOME DEPOT

The power of lower prices. Guaranteed. IF ANYONE TRIES TO GO LOWER, WE’LL BEAT THEIR PRICE BY 10%

COMMUNITY

FIND THE STORE NEAREST YOU AT HOMEDEPOT.COM OR 1-800-HOMEDEPOT Offers: Unless otherwise noted, all offers are valid in continental u.s.. The Home Depot® stores only (los ofertos son validas scilo en las tiendas The Home Depot® de los EE.UU. continental) and are not valid on prior purchases, clearance merchandise, purchases of gift cards, and may not be combined with any other offer. Void where prohibited. See Store Associate for details on offers. TRUST OUR 10% PRICE GUARANTEE *If you find a current lower price on an identical, in-stock item from an retailer, we will match the price and beat it by 10%. Excludes special orders, bid pricing, volume discounts, open-box merchandise, labor and installation, sales tax, rebate and free offers, typographical errors and online purchases. We reserve the right to limit quantities to the amount reasonable for our regular customers. In the event of an error, we will make every reasonable effort to accommodate our customer. Details on any product warranty available at store. Martha Stewart Living™ and the Martha Stewart Circle Logo™ are trademarks of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. Copyright © 2012 Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. All rights reserved. ©2012 Homes TLC, Inc. All rights reserved. Except as noted, prices effective 03/31/12 (commodities excluded).

customers are experiencing with their home water systems, and they are trained to service products on most brands. Regular maintenance services are provided to keep water systems running smoothly for years, ensuring delicious, safe, clean water. Springsteen is proud of the honest, hard-working ethic at his business. He enjoys helping to support the local economy and especially “helping people solve their water problems.” “I’m always looking for new and better ways of treating water,” says Springsteen. He sees his business expanding into alternative energy and becoming a “greener, energy-efficient company.” Springsteen was born and raised in the Lapeer community. His dad, Robert Springsteen, started Springsteen Water Conditioning in 1979. Springsteen has carried on the tradition since his father’s retirement eight years ago. Springsteen is now married with two kids of his own.

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Checkers serves a diverse selection of quick diner food and regularly introduces new flavors to its menu. Favorites like the Big Buford burger, hot dogs, fish sandwich, wings, and seasoned fries are always available

Checkers 880 S. Main St., Lapeer • 810-664-3511 www.checkers.com LAPEER — For three years, Checkers has been serving burgers, fries and colas to the Lapeer community. Based on personnel ratings and customer evaluations, the Lapeer restaurant has been awarded “Goldstatus” every year since its opening. Checkers was founded in Alabama in 1986 and merged with a similar hamburger chain, Rally’s, in 1999, making it the biggest double drivethru chain in the country. The two restaurants had similar menu choices and Rally’s buildings and signs have been redesigned to match Checkers’ distinctive double drive-thru look with checkerboard tiles, red neon signs and chrome styling. Keeping with its current slogan, “Feast on: Bold Food for Those Who Live it Big,” Checkers serves a diverse selection of quick diner food and regularly introduces new flavors to its menu. Favorites like the Big Buford burger, hot dogs, fish sand-

wich, wings, and seasoned fries are always available, but other options, like the Bacon Prime-rib burger, smokin’-sausage, barbecue chipotle burger, and the single mushroom Swissburger, have made their appearance in the past. Checkers also serves a green olive burger, a local favorite. The Cold Creations line of ice cream and frozen treats, which gained success and popularity with customers last summer, will be receiving an upgrade this spring and summer — a new caramel topping and apple pie sundae will be added to the menu. Cold Creations options currently include, soft serve ice cream, shakes, sundaes and blasts. For the on-the-go diner on a budget, Checkers has a value menu and offers 2-for-$2, 2-for-$3, 2-for-$4, and 2-for-$5 mix-and-match combination deals.

M & N Market Your One Stop Convenience Store

Diesel • Gas • Food • Beer • Wine Lotto • Ice • Fountain Beverages Cigarettes • McDonalds on site Snacks • Coffee • Propane Refill Station

5947 N. Lapeer Rd. North Branch, Deerfield Twp.

810-793-8801 Be a part of this high traffic business area! Commercial buildings for lease Call 810-358-0172

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 11-C

12-C • Sunday, February 26, 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Goyette Mechanical

Goyette Mechanical recently provided much needed Furnace Updates, equipment and Installation for the restoration of a Carriage Town House originally built in 1909. A Primary furnace system was installed as well as a secondary heating system on the second floor of this 102 year old Flint home. The Goyette volunteers worked through the weekend in a 17 degree home donating their time, talents and equipment. The home will be used as a group home for teen mothers and their children. Special Thanks to: Dan McGeary, Curt Lalonde, Larry Martin, Mark Tanner, Frank McGeary, Tommy Lalonde, Al Tanner, and especially Dominic Goyette who graciously approved the donation of all materials and equipment.

1-877-GOYETTE or 810-742-8530 www.GoyetteService.com Goyette Mechanical, Plumbing, Heating, ice and equipment where needed. In addition Goyette also generously supports Cooling and Electrical service was foundmultiple religious and school related ed in the Flint area in 1928, and has been efforts. proudly serving the plumbing and HVAC Goyette Mechanical has more than 40 needs of mid-Michigan residents since. highly trained residential Plumbing and Three generations of the Goyette Family HVAC service technicians on staff. All have been at the helm of this local compatechs are required to achieve and maintain ny that has employed thousands and the highest level of certifications available. strives to give back to the community in The Goyette company was recently awardmany ways. ed “Green Star” Status by the Mechanical Goyette Mechanical has grown to feaService Contractors of America (MSCA) . ture several divisions of the company. Green Star status recognizes MSCA STAR Anchored by a state of the art construcqualified contractors who have met strintion/engineering division, Goyette is also widely known for residential plumbing and gent guidelines for environmental responHVAC Sales and Service, and most recently sibility throughout their companies. This designation makes Goyette one of only 36 an expert electrical division. MSCA Green Star companies in the counFor decades the Goyette Company has try, and the only Green Star company in strived to give back to the communities mid-Michigan. MSCA is the nation’s leading that have supported them. Goyette trade association for air conditioning, mechanical has been instrumental in leadheating and refrigeration contractors. ing “Project Heats On”, an annual commuMichigan residents can rely on Goyette nity-wide effort to provide furnace repair Mechanical for all of their plumbing, heatand service to needy families in Burton. ing and cooling and electrical service Goyette volunteers have also been heavily needs. Call Goyette at 1-877-GOYETTE or involved with Carriage Town Ministries (810) 742-8530 or visit and The Whaley Children’s Center providwww.goyetteservice.com ing necessary plumbing and heating serv-

Teaching Future Stylists for Over 30 Years!

FOR THE STUDENT… Enroll now for May classes. Ask about our Elizabeth Grondin Memorial Scholarship and our student loan program. We’d be happy to have you tour our facility and help you plan for a successful future. You can be a licensed cosmetologist in a year. We have students who are competing and placing at State levels in cosmetology. We also offer instructor training.

FOR CLIENTS… Come have a princess party for your special young girl, manicures, pedicures, goody bags and more! Different packages are available to suit your needs. Ladies pamper yourself with “THE WORKS” package - manicure, pedicure, style and wax, and a discount voucher for lunch at a nearby restaurant - all for only $30

Enrolling Now For May 1st Classes Also Offering • Manicurist & Instructor Training • Ask About Scholarships and Finance Options

“Our family serving your family for generations.” Visit them on their website, www.MuirBrothersLapeer.com.

Muir Brothers Funeral Home 1021 S Lapeer Rd, Lapeer • 810-664-8111 www.MuirBrothersLapeer.com LAPEER – The death of a loved one is never easy. When families experience this loss, they need a strong support network to provide comfort and offer assistance during this difficult time. Muir Brothers Funeral Home of Lapeer has been part of that support network for Lapeer County families for more than 100 years. Four generations of the Muir family have been dedicated to serving the Lapeer community. The caring and experienced professionals at Muir Brothers Funeral Home are lifetime area residents, your neighbors and your friends. The Muir family attends and supports local schools and churches. They are strong supporters of local charities, veteran groups and hospices. Most importantly, they are here to support their friends and neighbors through a challenging time. Considering that funeral service is a personal touch service, it is with great thought that Muir Brothers Funeral Home now has a website to provide basic information regarding options for funeral services, funeral preplanning, grief resources, current obituaries and online condolences. The Muir family believes that their website will assist the families they serve. However, families are encouraged to contact Muir Brothers directly at 810-664-8111 to gain

answers to any questions they have regarding the death of a loved one. Recognizing each family they serve is unique and has their own personal needs, Muir Brothers Funeral Home provides many options including traditional funeral services, direct cremation, public or private gatherings, memorial services, graveside services and even military burials at Great Lakes National Cemetery. Muir Brothers is dedicated to helping families plan a personalized tribute that takes into consideration religious and cultural traditions, military service, personal preferences and financial means. The Muir family can help preplan and prefund funeral choices. Prefunding can lessen the burden on family members by avoiding unsure future finances, guaranteeing current prices and offering valuable benefits in regards to the Medicaid process. Every business requires dedication and professionalism. The Muir family believes that their business also requires a great deal of kindness, compassion, trust and attention to detail. The Muir family strives to provide this level of service to each and every family they serve. Visit them on their website at www.MuirBrothersLapeer.com.

Lifestyles Flooring Welcomes Neicy Kowalczyk Wood ~ Carpet ~ Tile

See the Latest Styles and Colors

30 years of Satisfied Customers Expert Service • Guaranteed Workmanship

810-965-8727

Neicy 810.877.8474

PPROGRESS The County Press SECTION D

February 26, 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

ARTS & CULTURE thrives and grows in county

BY ROSEMARY ARNHOLT Contributing writer

bid for art funding a few years ago gave Pix Theatre’s Executive Director, Craig Martin, a chance to form a solid vision of the arts in Lapeer County. During that grant review, which included PIX offerings, a mid-Michigan administrator told Martin, “Well that’s not really art.” “Some people have a real snobbish vision of what art is,” says Martin, “but if a play, a piece of music or a song moves you, that’s art. It’s our art. That’s what the PIX brings.” Martin says members of the PIX Theatre’s board, the nonprofit PIX Arts Council for Greater Lapeer, Inc., are diligent in asking what people want to see at the theater. And it’s his job and that of his one full-time person staff, “to make it work,” Martin says. The result is an annual schedule of The 70-yearperhaps 50 performances that vary from old marquee nationally known to regional singers, on the front of musicians or comics, to local theater, to the PIX magic shows and women’s night out. Theatre in The theater is also used for stage workdowntown shops and by diverse groups for a variLapeer was ety of artistic endeavors. fully restored “I’ve said this from the start,” says last summer Martin, who is in his sixth PIX year, including “this is the hardest working board I’ve lights and ever been associated with.” neon. The PIX A brief overview of the recent or is home to upcoming schedule includes: comedy, around 50 improv, drama, live performers, and an entertainment adult talent show. performances “It’s been a very positive season for each year. us,” Martin said of recent performances. “We’ve had five shows this year that sold out or were close to sold out.” For a complete schedule, history, box office info and more go to: www.pixlapeer.org. You can reach Martin, who is also an improv performer, at 810-664-4824. The address is 172 W. Nepessing St. Gallery 194, next door, at the corner of Court Street and Nepessing, opened in 2005. The gallery strives to be all things art, so aside from exhibits, it’s also the staging area for art classes and demonstrations, music lessons, a meeting and reception place for artists or groups and more. Art, in a variety of forms, is drawn from a variety of artists who can be youngsters, students, teens or adults, and emerging, regionally or nationally known artists. Carolyn Manley McCarter is the director. There is no entry fee. For details visit: www.gallery194.com, or the gallery’s Facebook page (Gallery 194-Lapeer Center for the Arts) or call 810-6671495. The Upper Gallery at 194 is also home to the non-profit Lapeer Art Association, created by local artists in the 1970s. For decades artists exhibited and hosted classes in a building on Daley Road, but sold it to lease space at Gallery 194 in 2005. Volunteers from among the membership man the reception desk and the gift shop and answer questions about art, artists and the association. “We have a lot more foot traffic in Lapeer,” says Dorothy Vronch, who is in her third year as LAA president. However, the economy and abandoned buildings downtown have slowed traffic, though “LAA is holding its own,” added Vronch, also mats and frames art works for others. The association’s objective is still to encourage and help new artists and promote fine arts among other goals. Promotion includes creating themes for exhibits for the Upper Gallery that change about every five to six weeks. Themed or deliberate non-themed shows, are designed to spotlight the vast variety of art media from members. The board meets monthly to plan shows. The two largest are in the spring and at Christmas, Vronch said. Details can be found through Google at lapeerart.wordpress.com or visit Lapeer Art Association on Facebook. Culture as art is emerging in Imlay City. On May 5, the Imlay City Chamber of Commerce will co-host a Cinco de Mayo festival from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. The Imlay City Downtown Development Authority and the Hispanic Service Center also are involved. Borne out by census data, Imlay City has a higher population of Hispanic heritage than the rest of the county, said Dana Dunlap, Chamber of Commerce Director. The chamber plans to help celebrate the culture

with dancers, a Mariachi band, authentic Mexican food and art vendors, among other activities. “We’re inviting local and Michigan vendors to sell their art and crafts,” she said. A $25 fee required to reserve a vendor space will be refunded if vendors stay for the entire festival, she added. For details on Cinco de Mayo or any chamber activity, visit www.imlaycitymich.com and click on the chamber link or call Dunlop at 810-724-1361. The new celebration falls in line with one of the chamber goals to promote membership and Imlay City culture, said Dunlap, who’s held the post for a year “Kim Marrone laid a very good foundation,” Dunlop said of the former director who is now the city’s DDA director. Imlay’s DDA has long had a reputation for taking an active role in community events. Among DDA offerings are summer concerts and movies in the park and during the cold-weather months, movies every other Wednesday at the movie theater. “Grease” is the word until March 21. DDA members also aim a spotlight on local and Michigan artists during the annual Blueberry Festival, says Steve Teets, DDA board chairman. “We’ve been very active in bringing in artisans who do their own work. There are so many (local) people who are artists, so many talented people, and we want to be able to showcase that to our community,” said Teets, owner of Focus Studio, (photography, matting and framing) downtown and co-owner of Treasures and Gifts, a nearby consignment shop for local artisans and Made-in-Michigan products. Singers and musicians have the opportunity to share their skills in the 44-year old Lapeer County

Concert Choir and the Lapeer Symphony Orchestra, formed eight years ago. The choir’s main goal is to provide quality and enrichment to Lapeer County. Under Lapeer Director Garth Starr, however, Symphony that goal has broadened. A Orchestra, concert has been planned this formed eight year in Genesee County. years ago, is “We’re stretching our audicurrently ence base,” said Starr, a forunder the mer Lapeer Community direction of Schools music teacher, now Beverly teaching in Flushing. Peacock. And the choir is stretching in other ways. Historically, the group has offered two main performances of the same concert, in the spring and at Christmas, but last year the choir was asked to sing for the Lapeer Downtown Business Association’s free concert series. The group also has been invited to perform beyond their two big concerts in 2012, Starr says. Choir members — averaging about 50 -- range in age from the early 20s up to “as long as you can sing,” he notes. Many have been members for decades. An executive board takes care of duties behind the scenes, he said, including drawing funding over and above the small choir membership fee. As artistic director, Starr oversees weekly rehearsals and Las Adelitas decides where the choir will sing members and what. The repertoire is mostJoana ly sacred music, but the choir Hernandez, also performed the “Wizard of Josefina Oz” from “Wicked” under his Lopez, Monira direction, and world music is Florez and being added. Angelica “My goal is to try and have a Chapa perform balance,” Starr says. a Mexican folk Details that include contact dance at the info, videos, and a history of the corner of Third choir, known as the Imlay City and Main Community Choir until a name streets in change in 1997, can be found downtown online by asking for Lapeer Imlay City last County Concert Choir through spring to mark Google. A new website is under the opening construction. day of the Lapeer Symphony Orchestra Imlay City was structured in 2004 as the Farmers Lapeer Civic Orchestra, a project Market. for home-schooled student/musicians and a few adults. As more adult members joined, the orchestra split into the symphonic for musically advanced adults and younger musicians and the philharmonic for those still studying music, says Beverly Peacock, executive director. A change in structure in 2009 coincidentally gave the orchestra its current name and a conductor, Keith Corbett, a music teacher at Lapeer’s Chatfield School. Rehearsals now take place at Chatfield. Members, number around 40 and and range in age from students to retirees. Aside from local Music-in-the-Park summer concerts, the orchestra has been invited to Oxford and will open for a Marlette celebration in July. They’ve also performed for non-profit organizations including Habitat for Humanity and the Seniors Program. The brass ensemble and strings have also presented their works separately at public and private functions. The tremendous growth in the organization and increasing demand for their appearances led to their search for 501(c)3 status this year. Peacock notes that placing cultural events on the top of a list of ways to invest time and money is the best way to improve yourself and your community. “Cultural events are a way also to draw others for the benefit of all of our small businesses and local residents. By putting cultural programs and the easy access to them in place, and keeping it there, we continue to build and maintain a foundation for other generations to stand on and build,” Peacock says. “Write a check, give of your time, attend events, invite everyone and do whatever you can do.” For orchestra details visit www.lapeerorchestra.org or Lapeer Symphony Orchestra on Facebook or call Peacock at 810-796-9429.

2-D • Sunday, February 26, 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Country Smoke House 3294 Van Dyke Road, Almont Twp. • 810-798-3064 www.countrysmokehouseinc.com ALMONT TWP. — Steve and Sue Francis started what was to become the Country Smoke House 23 years ago in a one-car garage in Almont. At the time it was a hobby, turning venison into jerky and sausage. Now it is a rapidly growing business with statewide recognition and award-winning meats. “We grew rapidly and bought bigger equipment,” said the store owners, who started without even having heat in their first facility. “Deer processing and our homemade sausage had become very popular and our customers expressed the need for a year round retail store.” A new storefront was built in 2000 and the Country Smoke House became the full-blown retail, manufacturing and processing facility that it is today. Then again last year, Country Smoke House nearly doubled in size, adding on a huge retail cooler, offices and an employee welfare lounge. Country Smoke House is a family business, owned by Steve and Sue Francis who work alongside three of

their children. Country Smoke House also has 30 to 60 employees seasonally. Today, services include a full-service, all-natural meat counter that is open seven days a week, an in-house chef making cooked meals, fresh salads and a pastry chef baking great tasting desserts. An outdoor barbecue cabin offers delicious southern-style foods on the weekend. Catering, hog roasting and grill rentals meet everyone’s meat needs. Country Smoke House is now the largest deer processor in the state and can process any type of wild game. “We believe in fresh, healthy foods,” said Steve and Sue Francis. “We grind burger here every hour. We do not mechanically alter our meats. Our Viennas and hot dogs are made from quality cuts of meats. You can taste the difference.” Country Smoke House was voted a favorite unique store and favorite caterer Services at Country Smoke House include a full-service, all-natural meat counter in the Best of the Best section published that is open seven days a week, an in-house chef making cooked meals, fresh salads and a pastry chef baking great tasting desserts. by The County Press.

Rob’s Service, Inc.

The staff at Rob’s Service is (left to right): Seth Ruddock, ASE master mechanic; Adam Hauxwell, auto tech; Robert Burda, owner/ ASE master mechanic and Dwayne Burda, service advisor.

1200 Imlay City Rd., Lapeer• 810-664-9040 www.robsservice.com entrepreneurship led to the business. LAPEER — Whether your car needs “I had three friends that had their own a tune up, or you can’t get it started in business, and I liked the thought of not the first place, Rob’s Service in Lapeer having a boss,” said Rob. “I opened the is ready to help. business in January 1999 in a two-bay “We are a full service automotive garage right beside our location now.” repair facility. We do all mechanical Thirteen years later with a loyal repairs from oil changes to engine clientele, and three other employees, changes. We fix everything on a vehiRob’s is now a “Best of the Best” cle, bumper to bumper,” said owner and president Rob Burda. And Rob and favorite with County Press readers. “I manage the business and still his staff stand behind their work. work on cars every day,” said Rob, an “All repairs done at our shop carry ASE Certified Master Technician with a 12-month 12,000-mile coast to coast 23 years of experience under his belt. warranty,” said Rob. “My brother runs the front counter and It’s that professional, careful cusmy wife takes care of the books.” tomer service adhering to the strictest Rob’s professional staff also standards that earned Rob’s Service includes ASE Certified Master the ASE Blue Seal of Excellence and Technician Seth Ruddock and Adam Tech-Net Professional Auto Service Hauxwell, a state certified technician. membership. It’s also the personal While the economy has had its ups touch. and downs, Rob’s has offered depend“We pride ourselves in customer able service. Rob’s hopeful that with service,” said Rob. “We will pick up an improving economy he can look forand drop off customers and try to work within a customer’s financial situ- ward to hiring more techs and expanding the shop in the next five years. ation.” Rob’s love of cars and his own

You are invited to help us celebrate 21 years of service at our

OPEN SKATE AND DROP IN HOCKEY

YOUTH HOCKEY PROGRAMS

Come join us for some fun with open skate or drop in hockey. We have scheduled days for these events throughout the week. Open skate is for all ages. Admission is $5 per person with a skate rental fee of only $3. Children five and under can skate free with a paid adult and seniors 55 and over skate for $3. We also have adult drop in hockey for ages 18 & up, $10 daytime or $13 evening. Women’s drop in hockey, 50+ drop in and Stick & Puck are also available.

Our youth hockey program, run by the Lapeer County Hockey Association, is available for all age levels starting with 8 & under cross ice and ADM Mite up to Midget which is for players aged 15-18. Check out our website for information on our upcoming youth spring league.

LEARN TO SKATE PROGRAMS The Polar Palace has a wide variety of learn to skate programs to fit the needs of every level of skater. For ages 3-5 Mice on Ice and Snowplow Sam are the beginning classes to learn the basics of skating. Our basic skills class for all ages, including adults, continues to teach the fundamentals of skating. After all basic skill levels have been passed, we offer classes for the more advanced skater who may wish to compete or to just continue their experience on the ice. All LTS instructors are certified through the USFSA with many years of experience. Whatever you are looking for, you are sure to find it in one of our programs.

ADULT LEAGUES Adult leagues are available in fall and spring . All players must be 18 years or older. Divisions are separated depending on the level of play. Also offered, 35 + league that plays on Thursday nights. Scorekeeping is done using the Pointstreak system which enables the tracking of personal or team stats. We are also home to a growing women’s hockey program. Our leagues are fun, fair and competitive and are growing every year.

21st Anniversary Fundraising Dinner Tuesday, April 24, 2012 Doors Open/Silent Auction • 5:30 p.m. Dinner • 6:30 p.m.

Hunters Creek Community Church 2471 Metamora Rd., Lapeer FREE of Charge Reservations Needed to place reservations call 810-667-0055 Guest Speaker Bob Dutko from Christian Radio WMUZ-103.5 FM

Tickets may be picked up at the Pregnancy Center or Hunters Creek Community Church

EVENTS We were recently the hosts of the Silver Sticks International Tournament in January and we will be hosting the MAHA State Finals March 16th, 17th and 18th. Our 12th annual Pepsi challenge hockey tournament will be held on March 9-11 and open to all divisions.

Visit us online at polarpalace.com where you will find all of our program information and get the latest updates on all our scheduled events and classes.

1715 Imlay City Rd., Lapeer

810-667-0055 • www.prcol.org Hours: Monday & Wednesday 9am - 5pm• Friday 9am - 3pm *Closed when Lapeer School are closed, due to inclement weather.

www.mihomepaper.com

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 3-D

PROGRESS 2012

OPENING SOON!

Lapeer Auto & Truck Plaza

(owned & operated by the previous owners & staff of Lapeer Muffler Man)

Same Great Service & Staff – All Warranty’s Honored –

YOUR ONE STOP SPOT FOR AUTO REPAIR NEEDS Smoker’s Palace sells a variety of products, including cigarettes, pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco, cigars, hookah pipes, beer and wine, incense, candles, Lottery and pre-paid cell phones.

Smoker’s Palace 586 S. Cedar St., Imlay City • 810-724-0766 IMLAY CITY — Owned and operated by three brothers, Sam, Michael and Martin Shango, Smokers Palace has been open for 12 years. The business sells a variety of products, including cigarettes, pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco, cigars, hookah pipes, beer and wine, incense, candles, Lottery and pre-paid cell phones. Sam stated the business in 2000 after working in his cousin’s smoke shop for four years. Michael and Martin are partial owners of the shop and have been working part-time at Smoker’s Palace since it opened. After 12 years in the same location, the smoke shop is expanding this year. It will be moving to a new location, owned by Sam, near the Imlay City Fairgrounds. Besides the new 4,000-square-foot home of the smoke shop, the property has two smaller rentals that Sam plans to lease. There will be several changes at the new location. In its new building,

Smoker’s Palace will boast a beer cave with 23 doors stocked with imported and domestic beer and a walk-in humidor. The business will also be extending its hours from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. on Sunday. Sam said his business is set apart by its prices and customer service, explaining, “If people bought a machine, a cigarette-making machine, and the machine broke, we’ll fix it for them.” Sam also takes care that no stale tobacco is on his shelves. “Everything we have is really fresh.” Besides its main line of products, Smokers Palace will also offer money grams and a payment center. The center will accept money for utilities, phones, credit cards and 300 companies. Sam plans for Smoker’s Palace to be moved from 1777 S. Cedar St. to its new location by the end of the month.

• • • •

14 Bay Service Facility Body Repair/Collision Parts Store Used Car Lot

We Cater To Our Customers! • 2 Waiting Areas • Kid’s Corner • Free Wi-Fi • Big Screen TV • Cafe Hours: Mon.-Sat. 8am-6pm

1640 N. Lapeer Rd., Lapeer 810-667-CARS www.completeautorepair-lapeer.com

ProShop Downstairs • Grill/Snack Bar Bar Drinks Available • Group Bowling Birthday Parties • Glow Bowling Automatic Bumpers

258 W. Genesee St. • Lapeer • 810.664.2082

4-D • Sunday, February 26, 2012

PROGRESS 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

R & R Animal Bedding 588 McCormick, Lapeer • 231-519-5782 out of the soil as it decomposes. LAPEER — Ron Burrough and his R&R Burrough began perfecting his process Animal Bedding company offer horse ownfor recycling newsprint into animal beders “huge savings” by pulverizing recycled ding almost two years ago when he found newspapers and waste newsprint into a a shredding machine that can grind paper material that makes an environmentally and cardboard into pieces small enough to friendly, cost-effective alternative to tradimeet federal security standards for docutional bedding materials for horses and ment disposal. Now Ron’s father, Ernie other animals. Burrough, manages a workforce of four at Among the advantages of paper bedR&R. ding, says Burrough, is that animal owners In addition to being more cost effective use less. He cited a recent University of than traditional bedding materials, Florida Horse Research Center study that Burrough notes that his paper bedding is reported, “Horses on straw required an more readily available and in some cases average of 17.9 pounds per day, those on safer than the alternatives. Straw is harwood shavings required 39.5 pounds per vested once a year and sawdust and wood day, while those on paper required only shavings are subject to the ups and downs 12.2 pounds per day.” He added that the of the construction industry. paper bedding lasts longer than straw or R&R Animal Bedding is currently offerwood shavings because the paper bedding ing its product in 32-pound bags that can clumps up when urine lands on it, instead be easily handled even by youngsters and of allowing urine to spread through a stall in 800-pound bulk bales for large operathe way straw and wood shavings do. tions. R&R’s customers include the MSU University studies have shown that Horse Teaching and Research Center and paper bedding and animal waste compost the Equestrian Center at Albion College. faster, making disposal easier. Burrough For information, call R&R Animal said farmers tend to shy away from putBedding at 231-519-5782. ting large amounts of straw or wood chips on their land because it draws nitrogen

R&R Animal Bedding offers horse owners a pulverized recycled newspaper material that makes an environmentally friendly, cost-effective alternative to traditional bedding materials.

Lapeer County Farm Bureau 1658 Mayfield, Mayfield Twp. • 810-664-9712 www.lapeer.michfb.com

The Lapeer County Farm Bureau Board of Directors are; seated left to right: Jim Davis, Gloria Ginell, Chris Cunningham, Deborah Ziehm, Jo Goodwin, Beth Rupprecht. Standing left to right: Mike Fleming, Rob Howland, John Brendel, Rick Ziehm, Steve Listwak and Robert Hartwig. Missing from photo: John Howell.

MAYFIELD TWP. — For more than 90 years, Michigan Farm Bureau has been dedicated to protecting and defending the economic rights of its members. The state’s largest general farm organization, there are more than 193,000 members statewide (3,900 members in Lapeer County alone). Each of the organization’s 67 Farm Bureau offices are managed by an elected board of directors comprised entirely of farmers. In 1920, Robert Taylor was elected the first president of Lapeer County Farm Bureau. Lapeer County Farm Bureau was founded to encourage, correlate and promote the efforts of the members of the Michigan Farm Bureau and local cooperative marketing associations for the advancement of farmers as individuals and agriculture as an industry in all educational, economic, and government affairs and/or programs of primary interests to agriculture as a business or a mode of social life. The Farm Bureau is a member/family/volunteer-based operation. Among the programs coordinated by Lapeer County Farm Bureau include: Project RED (Rural Education Day)

designed for third graders countywide, Young Peoples Citizenship seminar for high school juniors and seniors, Farm-o-olgy and a County Issues Committee to encourage communication between county officials and local agriculture concerns. In addition, the Farm Bureau also coordinates Dinner on the Farm with farmers and elected officials in Lapeer, Tuscola, Huron, Sanilac and St. Clair counties. Lapeer County Farm Bureau works closely with 4-H clubs, Future Farmers of America, the USDA and Michigan State University Extension. Farm Bureau opens the door to countless opportunities within the organization, including access to: current information on the agriculture industry, educational and professional development programs, leadership experiences and networking opportunities and money-saving products and services. Organization members belong for many reasons, though mainly to take action on behalf of agriculture (the state’s second largest industry) and to support Farm Bureau policies at the local level, in Lansing and in Washington, DC.

This year marks the 5th anniversary of the opening of Rogers Pharmacy in Historic Downtown Lapeer.

Thank you Lapeer County residents for your continued business We are proud to be your neighborhood pharmacy

In recognition of our 5 year celebration we will be featuring daily specials throught our pharmacy. Stop by and experience the savings.

Tired of National Pharmacies and the Big Box Stores? At Rogers Pharmacy we get to know customers better and give you the personal service you want and deserve. No waiting 1 to 2 hours to get your prescriptions, You’ll get them right away. Free delivery for those who can’t get out. $4.00 co-pay program and over 5000 generic and name brands, competitively priced for those without insurance.

Full service pharmacy. • Full line of over the counter medications and vitamins. • Customized Compounding Pharmacy. • Competitive Pricing • Featuring Carlton Greeting Cards. • Prescription transfers are easy

Rogers Pharmacy, where the customer comes first. Independent-Family Owned and Operated

Trusted care fom the people you know. Open Mon. thru Fri. 8 to 7 and Sat 9 to 3

810-664-0600

www.mihomepaper.com

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 5-D

PROGRESS 2012

Church’s Lumber Yard 276 N. Saginaw St., Lapeer • 810-664-8581 www.churchslumber.com

The friendly staff at Church’s Lumber includes (l to r) back row: Brain Dickenson, Charley Burley, Gary Jepsen and Jim Millershin. Middle row: Todd Brewer, Daryl Verbeke, Steve Chown. Front row: Danelle Bradley and Rick Coulter. Not pictured, Richard Morse.

LAPEER — After more than 120 years of service in Michigan, Church’s Lumber Yards has become a household name in Lapeer. Church’s Lumber has been providing building materials to the area since the business was founded in 1890 by Calvin Church. The Lapeer branch opened during the mid 1940’s, followed by a second branch in Auburn Hills over a decade later. The family-owned business serves southeast Michigan with experienced sales people who are willing to go above and beyond to meet customer needs, and are prepared to answer any customer questions. “Our customer service and experience are what set us apart from our competition,” says Todd Brewer, store manager of Church’s Lumber. Brewer says the 10 employees of the Lapeer store have an average of 20 years experience, and pride themselves on professionalism and superior customer service. In addition to supplying building

materials, they also offer jobsite sales and service, jobsite delivery, cabinet designs and more. Church’s also offers customers the ability to special order renovation products from manufacturers such as TimberTech, Kraftmaid, Jeld-wen, Andersen Windows and Doors, along with many others. As Church’s celebrates more than a century of history in Michigan, it also looks to the future by expanding its product line with green building products. Green products include those that are made with recycled content, conserve natural resources, avoid toxic emissions, save energy or water, and contribute to a safe, healthy built environment. For more information call 810-6648581 or visit the company website at www.churchslumber.com Church’s Lumber Yard was voted a favorite lumberyard in the Best of the Best section published by The County Press.

Hill Heating & Cooling 64 Lake Nepessing Rd., Elba Twp. • 810-664-0800 www.hillheatingandcooling.com LAPEER — Quality products and great customer service make the difference at Hill Heating and Cooling. “When it comes down to it, we try to treat our customers the way we would like to be treated,” said Hill Heating & Cooling owners Paul Hill and Chris Warford. Whether they’re changing a filter for a customer or installing a new furnace, Hill Heating staff do their work with courtesy, honesty, timeliness and fairness. It’s an award-winning strategy. Hill Heating recently received the Lennox Residential Award for outstanding sales installation and service of Lennox products. Hill offers a full line of both Lennox and Luxaire high efficiency gas furnaces and air conditioning equipment for residential and commercial applications. Other products, many in stock, that keep customers coming back include air filters, humidifiers, thermostats, custom sheet metal work, UV and Germicidal

lights, gas and wood fireplaces, and heating and cooling parts. Hill professionally installs heating and cooling equipment, and services all makes and models. With the customer ever in mind, Hill Heating also welcomes the do-ityourselfer. They try to help whenever possible. Do-it-yourselfers often come in looking for miscellaneous and hard to find parts, as well as furnaces, ductwork and fittings. Hill also has a sheet metal shop where they can build custom projects for the walk-in customer. “We enjoy doing business in our hometown. This is where we were raised and where we raised our own kids,” said Hill. “There is no greater satisfaction than serving the community in which we live, and knowing that people can count on us.... We hope to continue to expand our business and contribute to our hometown, while staying reliable, depend“We enjoy doing business in our home town. This is where we were raised and able and honest.” where we raised our own children,” said Hill Heating & Cooling owner Paul Hill.

HUNTERS DEN HUNTING EQUIPMENT

The O'Bryan Law Firm has now provided estate planning services for over 5,000 families in Lapeer and Genesee Counties.

O’Bryan Law Firm 315 N. Main St., Davison • 810- 653-9333 obryanlaw.com Attorney Sean O’Bryan started the O’Bryan Law Firm two decades ago with one focus — assisting area families who were getting older by helping them navigate the complex laws and rules related to estate planning and elder law. “I made a commitment when I started the practice of law that each time I opened a new client file, I would never forget that it was a special privilege to be chosen to assist that family,” said Sean O'Bryan. The O'Bryan Law Firm has now provided estate planning services for over 5,000 families in Lapeer and Genesee Counties. Sean and his staff have been honored for 3 years in a row to be chosen the best law office by the readers of Davison Index, and the best estate planning attorney by the Flint Journal. Their office was also chosen by Hour Detroit Magazine as a Five Star estate planning practice. The O’Bryan Law Firm includes 4 individuals who combine over 50 years of experience in estate planning law. In addition to Sean, the office includes Aimee O’Bryan, who has been a paralegal and part of the law firm for since its inception. Aimee handles all probate matters and trust funding. Paula McKenzie, a legal assistant, handles a variety of responsibilities, including trust preparation and funding. Gina Shatley is firm receptionist, who handles client communication and scheduling. “There is no way that we could come close to providing clients with the level of service we strive for without having the best staff. Aimee, Paula & Gina are a huge part of our continued success,” added O'Bryan. “During my time in practice,” states O’Bryan, “our office has observed a variety

of trends. Because of the recent economic trouble, people feel they don’t have a need to spend money on an estate plan. This can be very shortsighted.” O’Bryan explains that the initial investment in planning your estate can pay-off significantly if you or your spouse require assisted living or nursing care. Further, children often making a terrible mess of their parent’s assets when it comes time to settle things without direction. Simple tasks that anyone can do, such things as inventorying your assets can really avoid problems down the road It is also important to make careful choices about who should help you with financial and medical decisions well in advance of the day it may become necessary. Sean has written a 12 page booklet that is available free at his website, MichiganTrusts.com, or by calling or stopping by the office. “These are steps that anyone can take, no matter how much money they have, or what their family is all about,” said O’Bryan. “My goal is to prevent these problems one family at a time, and I believe with a little foresight — this can happen.” Sean and Aimee reside with 2 children, Caelan and Teagan at Celtic Ridge, a small farm with 8 horses and many sheep, goats, chickens, dogs and cats just outside of Lapeer. “Before I face my first client or judge each morning, I begin my day by mucking a few stalls and tossing a few bales of hay,” says Sean. “There is no better way to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground then having to answer to children and animals.

LAPEER COUNTIES NEWEST IRISH SETTER HUNTING & OUTDOOR BOOT DEALER SIZES UP TO 14 EE ALSO COMING SOON TO LAPEER’S LARGEST ARCHERY PRO-SHOP BOWTECH HUNTING & TARGET BOWS

2012 BOWS HAVE ARRIVED! Bows By: Mathews 1 Mission 1 Quest 1 Prime 1 Bear 1 Strother Crossbows by: TenPoint 1 Excalibur 1 Carbon Express NOW IN STOCK MUZZLE LOADERS & SUPPLIES

Predator Camo Clothing & Muck Boots

SAVE $$ ON TREE STANDS, DEER TARGETS & FEEDERS NOW AVAILABLE PROPANE TANK REFILLS 20 lb. to 100 lb. Open 7 Days M-F 10am-7pm • Sat 10am-5pm • Sun 10am-4pm

2110 N. Lapeer Rd., Lapeer • 810-664-6401 huntersdenlapeer@yahoo.com

6-D • Sunday, February 26, 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

Colonial Car Wash 26 W. Park Street, Lapeer • 810-245-WASH grown from four to seven employees, LAPEER — Last summer, after a twoincluding a detail specialist who has year hiatus, Colonial Car Wash was been in the field since the 1970s. Chip reborn on the site of what was once the Beam, who was at Colonial’s original Park Street Auto Wash. location, rejoined Finkbeiner’s team. “He In November 2009 Duke Finkbeiner was an integral part of the renovation closed the car wash his father, Orval project,” said Finkbeiner. Douglas “Doug” Finkbeiner, had opened In addition to cleaning the exterior of in 1971 on South Main Street (M-24) to your vehicle, Colonial offers a complete make way for a Walgreens just a month detailing service and interior cleaning. after he lost a year-long battle with lung Finkbeiner said Colonial is a step above cancer at the age of 67. After taking a its competition in that customers can year off to spend with his kids Duke have their seats, mats and floor boards bought old Park Street Auto Wash. In the vacuumed, windows cleaned, air freshenprocess of totally renovating the site, er added, and steering, console area and Duke learned it was first used in 1870 as center console all cleaned while they sit a wagon shop, converted to an auto repair shop, and then a gas station in the in a comfortable waiting area that offers satellite TV and a full view of the wash1960s, and finally a car wash in the ing area. 1980s. Colonial, noted Finkbeiner, is a familyToday Finkbeiner has a state-of-the-art friendly and customers are likely to meet car wash that offers extra services at no his wife, Casey, or his children, Cooper, extra charge including: undercarriage 10; Brady, 8; and Josie, 4. washing with rocker blasters, high presColonial Car Wash offers both its sure sprayers, tri-foam conditioning, every day retail customers and local car shampoo, Rain-X wax, touchless drying dealerships a fair price. He added car system and towel drying for a finishing dealerships and fleet operators can take touch. advantage of secure contracts. Since opening last June, Colonial has

In addition to cleaning the exterior of your vehicle, Colonial Car Wash offers a complete detailing service and interior cleaning. Since opening last June, Colonial has grown from four to seven employees, including a detail specialist who has been in the field since the 1970s.

North Branch Area Business Assn. www.nbaba.org.

NBABA-sponsored events encourage and promote the overall business climate in the Village of North Branch and North Branch Township.

Good for your horse and the environment.

NORTH BRANCH — Looking for shopping opportunities, restaurants or entertainment in Northern Lapeer County? A place where a handshake is your word at rock-solid family-owned businesses and service to customers is a priority? Or how about an investment in a great community with a highly respected school district? You'll find it all in North Branch. The North Branch Area Business Association is proud of the more than 150 years of tradition of our community. The dedication of the more than 50 businesses in the North Branch area helps keep that tradition alive. Because our pride shows, we have introduced hundreds of new visitors to the community through our sponsored community events. From the Buck Pole on the opening day of firearms deer season, our Christmas Parade to welcome Santa to town, our Rabbit Roundup in February or our summer activities, everyone has a fun time and a chance to win prizes. Offering fun times is great, and giving back to the community is what the

people of North Branch are all about. NBABA-sponsored events encourage and promote the overall business climate in the Village of North Branch and North Branch Township. Association membership also provides networking, educational opportunities and speakers through its meetings. A brief list of speakers who have shared their skills and topics include: marketing tips by neighboring business development leaders, an overview of programs by Lapeer County Prosecutor Byron Konschuh, theft and crime prevention tips by private investigator Joel Woods, and emergency preparedness by county EM coordinator Mary Stikeleather. You can always check out what’s going on in our business community by visiting us on the web at www.nbaba.org. With a strong sense of tradition, a high-quality school district and a vibrant and active business community, it’s always a beautiful day in North Branch.

100% Recycled Newspaper Bedding

Perfect For All Animals

Cost Savings 1 Bag of R&R Animal Bedding Equals 11⁄2 to 2 Bags of Pine Shavings.

Packaged in bio-degradable bags that are ideal for composting. Paper shavings have 10 times more absorbency than straw and 4 to 6 times more than wood shavings

Consign Fine Clothing Jewelry or Accessories Ladies, Mens and Children’s Fashions

New

Antiques Collectibles & Vintage!

Call for Details 231-519-5782 Located in Lapeer

17785 W. Genesee St. Lapeer

Monday - Friday 9 -6 • Saturday10-3

810-245-7272

www.lapeerteamwork.com

www.mihomepaper.com

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 7-D

PROGRESS 2012

Alley Hair Design 444 N. Court Street, Suite B, Lapeer • 810-664-5601 www.alleyhairdesign.com

Alley Hair Design owner Vicki (Utley) Chown (right) is a Master Colorist from Wella Professional Kolestion Hair Color and a Hair Designer. She has 20 years experience doing hair for men, women and children.

LAPEER — Alley Hair Design in downtown Lapeer may not be the largest salon in the area, but owner Vicki (Utley) Chown knows that she delivers high-quality hair care to all of her customers — and her customers know it too. “I'm just friendly, honest and I do great hair,” says Chown, who maintains a very comfortable, family-oriented business in Cranberry Court Plaza “In The Alley Behind Pix Theatre” in Downtown Lapeer. Chown, a Master Colorist from Wella Professional Kolestion Hair Color and a Hair Designer who has 20 years of experience working with men, women and children doing great hair like cutting, coloring, perming and designing that hair technique or formulating the color to meet client needs, opened Alley Hair Design seven years ago in this location. She owns and operates the small salon herself and her focus is centered on what her customers want. “My customers are wonderful at referring new clients,” Chown says. Her work ethic and skills keep her loyal customers coming back time and time again, and she is grateful that they reward her by telling friends and family

about Alley Hair Design. Recent additions to Alley Hair Design include a new wall, a larger seating area with couch and a relaxing dryer chair area with tons of magazines and up-to-date hair books. The additions were made to improve the interior look and make customers feel more at home while having their hair done. Chown also is pleased to offer a full line of hair products including Vavoom by Matrix and Design Series by Matrix. Also she has a variety of top brands like Wella, Aquage, Rusk, Big Sexy Hair, Proclaim and Redken, along with brushes, combs, clips, mirrors, spray glitter and nail polish. Vicki (Utley) Chown and her husband Steve, who has worked at his job at Church’s Lumber Yards for 20 years, donate their time and efforts to local charities and programs like 4-H. “We do it for the kids. We also believe in shopping local as much as we can,” Chown said. Go online to see the website or call Vicki today at 810-664-5601 to make an appointment. “I work late and early to work around your schedule,” Chown said.

Lapeer Medical Associates 944 Baldwin Rd., Ste. A, Lapeer (810) 245-5562 www.lapeermedicalassociates.com LAPEER — Providing personalized medical attention is the main focus of Lapeer Medical Associates. The practice includes family medicine, pediatric and internal medicine physicians. In addition the practice employs a certified family practice nurse practitioner and two physician assistants. Drs. Timothy Piontkowski, Albert Smith, Jr., Mark Braniecki and Curt Coulter are all board certified physicians. Kenneth Jostock, Jr., M.D. joined the practice in July of 2011. He specializes in Internal Medicine and sees patients in the office and in the hospital at both Genesys Regional Medical Center and McLaren-Lapeer Region. Dr. Jostock is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is a long-time resident of the Lapeer area and obtained his medical degree from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. Kathleen Fisher, D.N.P., C.F.N.P. has been working with Lapeer Medical Associates for seven years. She has a

Master of Science in Nursing degree from Saginaw Valley State University and is certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner by the American Board of Nursing Specialties. She recently obtained a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Oakland University. Janelle Keyser, P.A.-C is a physician assistant and joined LMA in 2005. She has a Master of Science degree from Wayne State University in Physician Assistant Studies and is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. In addition, she recently received certification from the National Certification Board of Diabetes Educators. Jennifer Finos, P.A.-C recently joined LMA as a physician’s assistant. She has a Master of Science degree from University of Detroit Mercy. Lapeer Medical Associates continues to grow and expand its services to serve the community. The physicians and staff are committed to providing excellent medical care.

The physicians and staff at Lapeer Medical Associates is committed to providing excellent medical care. Contact the office at 810-245-5562 or visit www.lapeermedicalassociates.com.

2007 Buick Lucerne $

1998 Pontiac Bonneville

210 down,

210 for 60 mos.

1999 Chevy Express Van

2002 GMC Envoy

165 down,

195 down,

165

195 for 36 mos..

for 48 mos. 2009 Pontiac G6

TALK ABOUT A PACKAGE The Best Western Packages are for the Whirlpool Suites. The package is for 2 persons. Sunday – Thursday the rate is $135.00 plus tax and on Friday and Saturday they are $157.00 plus tax. They will receive a $20 gift card to Ted’s Sports Pub and Grill and 2 Lapeer Cinema passes. Valid for 1 year.

2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee

250 down,

250 for 66 mos.

2006 Pontiac G6

199 down,

190 down,

199 for 60 mos.

190 for 60 mos.

2010 Nissan Versa

HOTEL AMENITIES

• Indoor Pool • Room Service Available • Game Room • Guest Laundry & more

2004 Toyota Camry

215 down,

215 for 66 mos.

2000 Honda Accord

170 down,

165 down,

170 for 60 mos.

165 for 36 mos.

1999 Chrysler Cirrus

2003 Chevy Suburban $ 195 down, $ 195 for 48 mos.

150 down,

150 for 36 mos.

2009 Dodge Grand Caravan

2005 Ford Escape

199 down,

190 down,

199 for 60 mos.

190 for 54 mos.

1994 Chevy S-10

2005 Chevy Malibu MAXX $

130 down,

130 for 60 mos.

HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS

1999 Chevy Silverado

130 down,

Lapeer’s Best

NTN TRIVIA

190 down,

130 for 60 mos.

125 down,

125 for 36 mos.

2006 Chevy Aveo

BLOODY MARYS

160 down,

160 for 36 mos.

2009 Chevy Cobalt $

190 down,

190 for 54 mos.

2007 Saturn Aura $

160 down,

160 for 36 mos.

190 for 54 mos.

2000 Pontiac Grand Prix

2002 Ford F250 XL

160 down,

7.3 Power Stroke 4x4, One Owner

160 for 36 mos.

11,500

BEST WESTERN Lapeer Inn Locally Owned for 26 Years 770 West Street • Lapeer, MI 48446

810-667-9444

810-667-0001

www.BestWesternLapeerInn.com

1949 N. Lapeer Rd. • Lapeer • daveknappusedcars.com

8-D • Sunday, February 26, 2012

PROGRESS 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

Gerlach’s Bowling Center 258 W. Genesee St., Lapeer • 810-664-2082 “The new section is separate from the LAPEER — Strikes, spares, splits and original lanes and has great atmosphere splashers. It’s part of the lingo you’ll for birthday parties and other events,” hear at family fun spot, Gerlach’s Bowling Center in Lapeer. Since 1946, the said Gerlach. And the Gerlachs are bowling center has been a family-friendly pleased that they were able to help the tradition with the spice of sport competi- local economy by putting people to work building the addition. tion and entertainment. The bowling center also employs The Best of the Best survey published about a dozen people, ranging from 18 by The County Press named Gerlach’s Bowling Center the No. 1 bowling alley in years on the job to one month. And family has always been a part of the picture. the county. Readers determined their Dan’s father Bill Gerlach and Bill’s favorites. brother Jack got the business rolling in “We try to keep up with all the latest 1938 when they purchased Lapeer improvements in the bowling industry,” Recreation. Dan’s brother and sisters said Vicki Gerlach. She and her husband worked at the bowling center during Daniel have owned the business since high school and their college years. Dan 1988. Staying on the leading edge of the and Vicki’s now-grown children Josh and industry means that Gerlach’s offers Natalie also spent years in the business. amenities like automatic scoring, autoDan and Vicki are at the hub of the matic bumpers, cosmic bowling sounds community. Dan has been a member of and handicapped accessibility. the Lapeer Optimist Club since 1976. Gerlach noted there are many differVicki is a director of the Greater Flint ent choices of leagues to join for some United States Bowling Congress Youth. competition. It’s also a great way to Both of the Gerlachs are board members socialize with friends or family for a few of the Michigan State USBC Youth. hours of fun. For a few hours of affordable fun, Last year, Gerlach’s completed an check out the bowling center on addition to their existing building, and Genesee St. You can also find them on opened six more lanes to accommodate Facebook. more bowlers.

(l to r) Natalie Gerlach, Daniel Gerlach and Vicki Gerlach welcomes bowlers to see the new addition complete with a big screen television right over the bowling lanes.

Buy a New Avanta Pure Ultra Efficient Water Conditioner and WE WILL PAY YOUR SALES TAX & GIVE YOU ONE YEAR OF FREE SALT! Offer expires March 31, 2012

Residents spend time in the community rooms playing cards and games, and even host holiday parties throughout the year.

Ask about our reverse osmosis purification system which gives you premium-quality drinking water.

WE SELL

Devonshire Retirement Village

DURA-CUBE SOFTENER SALT

NED FAMILY OW D TE RA PE O AND

SPRINGSTEEN

WATER CONDITIONING 1991 N. Lapeer Road, Lapeer, MI

810-664-1230 · 800-540-7629

101 Devonshire Drive, Lapeer • 810-245-7646 www.devonshireretirementvillage.com LAPEER — Senior Citizens are finding Devonshire Retirement Village a comfortable, caring place to live with the peace of mind that they are being cared for, and a sense of community between the residents. Devonshire offers three options for seniors depending on their individual care needs. The Independent Senior Apartments offers a cozy apartment complex with lots of amenities. Tenants may choose a one or two bedroom apartment with their own washer and dryer, noon meal, and community areas for activities. Many of the tenants feel the best part about living there is the sense of community and security. Neighbors spend time playing cards and games, watching movies, and enjoying parties together. Devonshire also offers Assisted Living for residents needing minimal to moderate assistance with their personal care

needs, medication administration, fun activities, and 24-hour care by trained, caring staff in a home like environment. If a resident’s care needs increase, or they have brain related diseases such as Dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, MS, they will benefit from the Specialized Memory Care unit with a higher staff to resident ratio, appropriate activities and designed in a unique neighborhood concept. “Our goal is for our residents to age in place with dignity, to honor God by providing high quality senior lifestyle services that promote the value and dignity of every person,” said administrator Susan Peterson. Devonshire Retirement Village was voted a favorite senior living community and favorite nursing home in the Best of the Best section published by The County Press.

ark Capstick and Katie Lynch Capstick, both Licensed Funeral Directors, are the Lynch Family Members who live in Lapeer and own and operate LYNCH & SONS FUNERAL DIRECTORS CAPSTICK CHAPEL in downtown Lapeer next to City Hall. Their children Kaden, Abigail and Lucy are lifetime residents of Lapeer. Katie and Mark have built their life in Lapeer and have earned the appreciation and respect of their friends and neighbors for their compassionate service to families in need of their services. Their work is the continuation of lives of service established by Katie's grandparents and shared by her parents, aunts and uncles and siblings.

To learn more about Katie and Mark's Funeral Home and Family please visit their website at:

www.LynchFamilyFuneralDirectors.com “A FAMILY TRADITION OF DIGNIFIED SERVICE”

LYNCH & SONS FUNERAL DIRECTORS CAPSTICK CHAPEL 542 LIBERTY PARK ~ LAPEER, MI 48446

Telephone: (810) 664-8282 • Fax: (810) 664-2030

www.mihomepaper.com

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 9-D

PROGRESS 2012

Lapeer Rent-All 1399 Imlay City Rd • 810-664-0868

Primarily, Lapeer Rent-All offers rental for construction and party supplies but their diversity has played a role in the success of the company. “We offer a wide variety of services,” said McKenna. “We have retail party supplies up front, wedding invitations, and we offer UPS shipping.” Call them today at 810-664-0868 to find out more.

LAPEER — The monumental stresses of party planning have plagued hosts and hostesses for centuries, but Lapeer Rent-All has spent the last 30 years providing an affordable escape for event planners. Lapeer Rent-All provides a wide spectrum of special event, construction equipment and services. They provide service for events including corporate functions, trade show decorating, weddings and more. “We are always growing and always adding new things to help people make their jobs and party planning easier,” said Kevin McKenna, owner and founder of Lapeer Rent-All. McKenna began Lapeer Rent-All 30 years ago and has been in rental work since high school. He and his five other employees are dedicated to superior customer service at a decent cost. Lapeer Rent-All supplies party materials from elegant tents and china to paper napkins and pig roasters. They provide all party equipment from serving trays and bread pans to lighting equipment such as patio lights, strobe lights, and chandeliers. They even offer outdoor

recreational materials including volleyball and horseshoes. While the company provides an enormous array of essential party planning materials, they offer many other services as well. Lapeer Rent-All offers a great variety of construction equipment such as Bobcats, power washers, trenchers, trailers, log splitters and more. Primarily, Lapeer Rent-All offers rental for construction and party supplies but their diversity has played a role in the success of the company. “We offer a wide variety of services,” said McKenna. “We have retail party supplies up front, wedding invitations, and we offer UPS shipping.” Other rental opportunities from the same owner include Stadium Bleachers where seating can be rented for all occasions with guest lists from 50 to 1500 people, and Sam’s Storage which includes outdoor storage rental for boats, motor homes, campers, and more. Indoor storage is also available at Sam’s Storage from sizes 5x10 to 10x30. For more information on Stadium Bleachers call 810-245-6258. For more information on Sam’s Storage call 810-664-0954..

ELGA Credit Union — Lapeer 799 Harrison St., Lapeer • 810-715-3542 www.ELGACU.com LAPEER — ELGA Credit Union was founded in 1951, last year celebrating its 60th anniversary. ELGA Credit Union has more than 45,000 members in the communities it serves, including the greater Lapeer area. The Lapeer branch, conveniently located across the street from Meijer store on Harrison Street, has been serving the community since 2007. The branch is open six days a week. Hours are 9:30 a.m. through 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. through 1 p.m. on Saturday. Manager of the Lapeer ELGA Credit Union branch is Becky Walker, who has been with ELGA for 13 years. Individuals who live, work, worship, volunteer, or attend school within Lapeer, Genesee, Saginaw, Shiawassee, Oakland and Livingston counties are eligible to join the credit union. In addition to the Lapeer branch, ELGA operates seven other branches located in Burton, Clio, Davison, Flint, Flushing, Fenton and Waterford. The Lapeer branch and its staff is involved with many organizations in

Lapeer and has participated in many area events. Branch associates belong to the Lapeer Area Chamber of Commerce and the Lapeer Kiwanis. They also have participated in events such as Mentors for Kids bowling, Relay for Life, Family Literacy Center camel races and the Zonta Fantasy Forest. The Lapeer branch loves the strong sense of community they feel in Lapeer and have a great time at all of the Lapeer events. ELGA Credit Union partners with many different organizations in local communities including local chambers, service organizations and many other non-profits. ELGA employees donated almost 1,700 hours outside of work giving back to communities in which they serve. ELGA Credit Union is a full-service financial institution that offers checking, savings, lending services including auto and home loans, VISA credit cards and investment services. ELGA also offers a full range of commercial services for business members. ELGA Credit Union is here to serve all of your financial needs.

EAT LOCAL STRAWBERRIES Grown in Lum, MI. Picking expected to begin in June 2012

Available ready picked at the farm in Lum. Mann’s berries are also available at various retail outlets around the area including: • The Pickle Barrel in Imlay City • North Branch Food Center • Volz’s Farm Market in Marlette • Harvest Time in Oxford Please Call or Check Website for U-Pick Hours

810-664-0503

Guaranteed Fresh & Sweet C.P. Mann y Familia www.upickstrawberries.com

The staff at the Lapeer branch of ELGA Credit Union are ready to help you with all your banking needs. The branch is open six days a week: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday.

10-D • Sunday, February 26, 2012

2012 Ram 1500 Crew Cab 4x4

2012 Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4x4 5.7L V8 Hemi MDS WT Engine, Cloth 40/20/40 Bench Seat, ST Popular Equipment Group, 6-Speed Automatic 65RFE

5.7L V8 Hemi MDS WT Engine, Premium Cloth 40/20/40 Bench Seat, 6-Speed Automatic 65RFE Transmission, ST Popular Equipment Group, 32-Gallon Fuel Tank, Black Tubular Side Steps by Mopar, Customer Preferred Pkg. 25C

Transmission, Customer Preferred Pkg. 25C

MSRP $36,084

MSRP $33,055

Chrysler Employee General Public

Down

Lease 24 Mo. Buy 72 Mo.

198 416 $ 306** $453 $

† †

Sale Price

24,379 $ 26,986* $

Chrysler Employee General Public

2012 Chrysler 200 Touring “Imported From Detroit”

2.4L I4 DOHC 16 Valve Dual WT Engine, 6-Speed Automatic Transmission, Premium Cloth, Bucket Seats, Customer Preferred Pkg. 29U MSRP $22,210 Chrysler Employee General Public

Down

Lease 36 Mo. Buy 72 Mo.

219** $258 $ 246** $274 $

† †

Sale Price

14,879* $ 15,963* $

2012 Chrysler 300 Limited

Down $

Down

Lease 36 Mo. Buy 72 Mo.

269 395 $ 307** $417 $

Chrysler Employee General Public

Lease 24 Mo. Buy 72 Mo.

Down $

Down

304** $449 381** $488

Sale Price

26,937* 29,528*

†

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4x4 3.6L V6 24-Valve WT Engine,

Chrysler Employee General Public

Down

Lease 36 Mo. Buy 72 Mo.

278** $422 $ 319** $444 $

† †

Sale Price

25,374* $ 26,572* $

†

Sale Price

23,496* $ 24,873* $

2012 Chrysler Town & Country Touring 3.6L v6 24-Valve WT Engine, 6-Speed Automatic Transmission, Flexible Fuel Vehicle, Leather Trimmed Bucket Seats, P225/65R17 BSW All Season Tires, Customer Preferred Package 29K Lease 36 Mo. Buy 72 Mo. Sale Price MSRP $38,630 Chrysler Employee General Public

Down $

Down

269** $388 $ 316** $427 $

† †

22,984* $ 25,766* $

2012 Dodge Journey SXT

Tri-County Equipment boasts one of the largest parts and equipment inventories in Michigan. While the company’s roots are in agriculture, Tri-County customers include homeowners, landscapers, commercial lawn care companies, golf courses, schools and municipalities.

3.6L V6 24 Valve WT Engine, 6-Speed Automatic 62TE Transmission, Premium Cloth LowBack Bucket Seats, Customer Preferred Pkg. 28E. MSRP $25,295 Chrysler Employee General Public

Down $

Down

Lease 24 Mo. Buy 72 Mo.

$ $

196** $309 224** $338

†

17,978* 19,867*

4-Speed Auto Trans, 3.7L V6 Engine, Premium Cloth Bucket Seats, Customer Preferred Pkg. 28B

MSRP $25,770 Chrysler Employee General Public

Down $

Down

Lease 36 Mo. Buy 72 Mo.

199** $297 $ 233** $315 $

† †

Sale Price

17,619* $ 18,976* $

Additional savings with military rebate or direct mail coupon. *Plus, tax, title, lic., CVR, doc. & destination. Owner loyalty and lease loyalty and select leasee rebate. *All rebate to dealers. Must take a delivery from dealer stock. **All leases based on 10,000 miles per year plus, tax, license, CVR, and doc. fees. No security deposit required. Owner loyalty and lease loyalty and select lease rebate. Lease payments based on preferred credit rating. Not everyone will qualify †Purchase payments based 6.49% where applicable plus tax, title, license, and CVR. Includes owner loyalty and select leasee rebate. Payments based on preferred credit rating. Not everyone will qualify. Must take delivery from dealer stock. Must qualify for Chrysler Employee Discounts on demos. Exp. 2/29/12 *

I-69 & Van Dyke (M-53), Imlay City Mon & Th 9am-8pm, Tue-Wed-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-3pm

Tri-County Equipment 3120 N. Lapeer Rd., Lapeer • 810-664-3798 www.tricountyequipment.net

Sale Price

†

2012 Jeep Liberty Sport 4x4

Bucket Seats w/ Adjustable Head Restraints, 5-Speed Automatic Transmission, 50 State Emissions, UConnect Voice Command w/ Bluetooth, Flex Fuel Vehicle, Customer Preferred Pkg. 26E MSRP $30,415

†

3.6L V6 24-Valve WT Engine, 6-Speed Automatic Transmission W/ EShift, Luxury Leather Trimmed Bucket Seats, AM/FM/SAT/DVD/MP3/SD Card, 20” Polished/Painted Aluminum Wheels, Customer preferred Pkg. 27H MSRP $34,785

www.mihomepaper.com

PROGRESS 2012

810-724-0444

MAYFIELD TWP. — If you’re growing things, mowing them, cutting them, moving them or digging them up, Tri-County Equipment has just the thing for the job. For more than 25 years, Tri-County has been serving the Thumb area with full lines of agricultural, commercial, residential and turf care products. The familiar green and yellow of John Deere is a hallmark at Tri-County along with many other quality brands like Toro and Stihl. “The size and scale of our operation allows us to be more price competitive,” said Tri-County Equipment’s marketing and sales manager Scotty Wadsworth. “We buy the best possible discounts and pass on the savings to customers.” Tri-County boasts one of the largest parts and equipment inventories in Michigan. Its factory-trained team of service professionals and expert parts staff provide service “second to none after the sale.” While the company’s roots are in

agriculture, Tri-County customers include homeowners, landscapers, commercial lawn care companies, golf courses, schools and municipalities. Compact tractors and zero-turn radius mowers are part of the appeal. Tri-County Equipment was founded in 1985 by the Wadsworth family in Sandusky. Dan and Pam serve as president and office manager, respectively. Kayla Wadsworth handles accounting, and Scotty heads up marketing and sales. Since its founding, Tri-County opened locations including Marlette, Caro, Bad Axe, Burton, Reese, Birch Run and Saginaw. The Lapeer branch opened in 2008. It was the John Deere farm equipment on the owners’ farm that inspired it all. Now, the enterprise employs 155 people in the region, some with more than 30 years experience. Tri-County is also a community force, sponsoring local events and sports and supporting the United Way.

CrandallChrysler.com

Sam’s Storage Outdoor Storage Serving Lapeer’s Rental Needs for Over 20 Years

Boats • Motor Homes • Campers etc.

Indoor Storage

24 Hour

Unit Sizes from 5x10 thru 10x30 Access Fenced & Lighted • Monthly Rates Discount Available for Long Time Storage Truck & Trailer Rentals • Packing Boxes & Supplies

Office Hours Mon-Fri 9am-5:30pm Sat 9am-4pm Sun 7:30 am-Noon Seasonal Call for Winter Hours November-March

810-664-0954 1399 Imlay City Rd. • Lapeer (Behind Lapeer Rent All) Office Located in Lapeer Rent All

LAPEER RENT-ALL

PARTY DEPARTMENT TO MAKE IT ELEGANT MAKE IT ELITE A Complete Line of Party Supplies & Equipment From Elegant Tents & China to Paper Napkins & Pig Roasters Helium & Balloons • Specialty Gags & Gifts (Staging & Bleachers)

EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES

“We Rent Almost Everything” A Complete Line of Contractor’s Equipment • Residential Homeowners Equipment • Industrial Equipment • One Way/Local Trucks

OPEN 7 DAYS Sundays Seasonal WE FILL PROPANE TANKS

810-664-0868

1399 Imlay City Rd (M-21) Lapeer 1 Mile East of (M-24) Main St.

www.lapeerrentall.com

Stadium Bleachers Seating for All Occasions - From 50 to 1500 Sporting Events, Festivals and More 810-245-6258

www.mihomepaper.com

Sunday, February 26, 2012 • 11-D

PROGRESS 2012

Burke’s Flowers 148 Nepessing St., Lapeer • 810-664-9947 www.burkesflowers.com and www.burkesflowers.net LAPEER — Anyone who has ever purchased, received or looked at flowers in Lapeer has probably heard of Burke’s Flowers. Owned by Cathy Benton for the past 40 years, Burke’s Flowers has been a landmark in downtown Lapeer and the best source for flowers, floral arrangements and accessories for decades. Long-time employee RuthAnn Johnson is the lead designer at Burke’s Flowers and she is joined by Debbie Stevens, part-time designers Jan Powell and Penny Reid, and floral assistant and transportation director Morgan Law. Specializing in floral arrangements, especially for all of those special occasions in life like weddings, showers, birthdays and holidays, Burke’s Flowers offers a wide selection to fit any need. Anyone shopping at Burke’s will find a wide selection of flowers, vases and accessories, but if the customer doesn’t find just what they are looking for

they do not need to worry. Burke’s will still be able to help with orders beyond their own well-stocked shelves. Custom orders of unique flowers or over-sized orders can easily be placed and speedy delivery is always available. The veteran staff at Burke’s has the world of flowers down to a science. Most important, customer service is a top priority at the local florist shop. Every customer receives a warm greeting, help with shopping and Burke’s gives each and every order their friendly and thorough attention to detail. Burke’s Flowers is open in downtown Lapeer Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Burke’s also offers delivery services to anywhere in the county, the nation or the world. Customers can shop anytime from Pictured (l to r) are: Ruthann Johnson, Morgan Law, Jill Grobbel, Cathy Benton, home by using Burke’s websites. Jan Powell, Penny Reid and Debbie Stevens. Burke’s Flowers was voted the best florist in the Best of the Best section published by The County Press.

2009-2010

Checkers Gold Store

Call 810-245-2944 for more information or visit LCBT.com

Brian’s Clean Facility Family Owned & Operated Since 1990 FREE Road Test

TRANSMISSION & COMPLETE AUTO REPAIR

All of our specials include a 22 point maintenance inspection & consultation about any problems you may be having with your vehicle.

65 Columbiaville Rd. • Columbiaville 8 mi. N. of Lapeer • 3 mi. S. of Burnside Rd.

810-793-2999

10 off

Any brake job

Most Vehicles • Expires 3-31-12 • Must present coupon at time of service

Transmission Service Change filter & fluid up to 5 qts.

Most Vehicles • Expires 3-31-12 • Must present coupon at time of service

5% off Transmission Repair Up to $50 off

Most Vehicles • Expires 3-31-12 • Must present coupon at time of service

12-D • Sunday, February 26, 2012

PROGRESS 2012

www.mihomepaper.com

The North Branch Area Business Association is proud of the more than 150 years of tradition of our community. The dedication of the more than 50 businesses in the North Branch area helps keep that tradition alive.

John Simmons, local farmer and owner of an organic foods business, brandishes the check he won as top contender in a Summerfest corn eating contest.

The technicians at Hunter’s Den can service any brand of bow. Before leaving with a new or repaired bow, customers can test it out at the range.

Hunter’s Den 2110 N. Lapeer Rd., Mayfield Township 810- 664-6401 MAYFIELD TWP. — Lifelong bow hunters Scott Beckwith of Beckwith’s Body Shop and Russ Arnold of Arnold’s Auto Wash opened the doors of Hunter’s Den, a full-line hunting store with an emphasis on archery, on August 1st last year. Besides its inventory of archery supplies, clothing, tree stands, targets, binoculars and accessories, the store boasts a complete service and repair shop and a nine lane archery range. New to Hunter’s Den this year are Irish Setter hunting and outdoors boots and Bowtech hunting and target bows. “We are giving area hunters the opportunity to find top notch equipment, accessories and supplies without having to spend precious time and gas money driving to Bass Pro Shop or Cabela’s,” said Arnold. The repair shop’s two technicians both have 25 to 30 years of experience and can service any brand of bow. Before leaving with a new or repaired bow, customers can test the bow at the in-store range. “They’ll all be tuned ... When you leave here, if it ain’t shooting bulls eyes , it’s because of you,” said Arnold, laugh-

ing. Hunter’s Den began hosting several archery leagues at its range, starting in January. The leagues currently compete Monday through Saturday, and spectators can watch from a gallery window in the showroom. Beckwith and Arnold will continue growing and adding to their shop. Next year, after the state of Michigan updates its system for selling hunting licenses, Hunter’s Den will begin selling hunting licenses. “That’s an absolute must,” said Beckwith. Hunter’s Den is the one-stop shop for area hunters, both novice and veteran. “Scott and I have been avid bow hunters for years. We understand the equipment, service and advice hunters need to make the sport enjoyable and successful,” said Arnold. “We have a great facility here that allows our customers to enjoy their sport year-round. We invite all area archers to come in and check us out. Once they stop in for a visit, they’ll come back because it’s a great place to hang out with other folks who know and love the sport.,” he concluded.

This sculpture in front of Independent Bank on Huron Street, was an entry in the decorated Christmas Reindeer Contest

Hunters proudly display their deer at the annual Buck Pole on the opening day of firearm deer season.

We’re proud of the North Branch Area and we celebrate that pride with our sponsored community events NBABA-sponsored events encourage and promote the overall business climate in the Village of North Branch and North Branch Township. Association membership also provides networking, educational opportunities and speakers through its meetings. Come to North Branch and enjoy the NBABA sponsored events: • The Buck Pole on the opening day of firearms deer season • December Christmas Parade to welcome Santa to town • The Rabbit Roundup each February • Our numerous summer activities And most of our local businesses individually provide their support each year for the famous North Branch Days 4th of July Parade.

You can check out what’s going on in our business community by visiting us on the web at

www.nbaba.org “It’s Always A Beautiful Day In North Branch”

“We Know Lapeer County” This is the dedicated staff that brings you The County Press Every Wednesday and Sunday

Left to Right: Jacob Hunsanger, Jeff Hogan, Nancy Elliott and Phil Foley.

Left to Right: Janet Hadacz, Jessica Fish and Jeanne Mickle.

Left to Right: Josh Burrough, Sarah Osentoski, Jessica Tripp and Rich Horn.

Left to Right: Helen Williams, Stacey Hulber, Dale Phillips, Jill Nichols and Sharon DeFrain.

Left to Right: Eric Hohenthaner, Brandon Pope, Lisa Paine, Dan Nilsen and Mike Selecky.

s Back Row, Left to Right: Kathy Nieporte, Teresa Poppeck, Jessica Pilgrim, Julianne Chambers, Susan Thompson, Ronnie Cooper, Jen Bialek, Mike Gonzales. Front Row: Joe Spreeman, Karla Irwin, Karen Fitzgerald and Kim Stanbury.

The County Press Locally owned — Locally Connected — Locally Committed

Left to Right: Rebecca Andreski, Michelle Badgley, Jandi Prich, Gina Delisi, Travis Timlin, Mary Rouse, Carol Correa, Liz LaFave, Donna Ashby. Not pictured, Ruby Stark and Dawn Davis.

810-664-0811 • mihomepaper.com