517 B U S I N E S S
A N D
PUTTING THE BRAKES ON A STEREOTYPE
Under the hood with Kate Kleinschmidt, owner of Jane’s Garage
ROAD WARRIORS Cruise-ins let auto enthusiasts show their metal
L I F E
G N I G CHAR D R A TOW E R U T U F E H T ANY TA Y’S BETH G R E N E ERS N C ONSUM RANSFORMATIO T V E TALKS
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PLUS! Notable News Are cars smarter than hackers? October 2023
And more!
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publisher’s note
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On the Move, Moving Closer
here’s no questioning the significant role Michigan has played in the forward momentum of transportation in the United States, and we’re celebrating all things regionally related to the automotive industry in this issue of 517 Magazine. Ransom E. Olds deservingly gets the lion’s share of attention when it comes to discussions about the advancement of transportation in the Greater Lansing region. Founding the Olds Motor Vehicle Co. in Lansing in 1897, his sizeable footprint left a deep and lasting impression on our area, its economy and its residents that continues to this day. The automotive industry still rolls forward in a position of prominence throughout the region — from the facilities such as the Lansing Grand River Assembly and Delta Assembly plants to the next business wave such as the incoming Ultium Cells battery facility — and it will continue to shape the future of mid-Michigan for generations to come. Not to mention the future of EV, which we touch on in our business feature. On a broad scale, transportation is the root of progress and innovation as well as the soul of business and industry. It is the economic driver (no pun intended) of our nation and allows widespread access to goods and services that would otherwise be unavailable. Yet there is a deeper and more intimate aspect of transportation in that it provides access to mobility on an individual level. It helps to erase remoteness, detachment and isolation to keep us better interconnected on a face-to-face level. Add to that the fact that people genuinely just love cars. Those are the things we touch on most in this issue of 517 Magazine. Transportation allows personal independence and autonomy to move, to see, to learn and to experience the world around us and help us grow as individuals.
517mag.com 517
Publisher Tiffany Dowling tiffany@m3group.biz
517 Business and Life (USPS#020-807) is published monthly by M3 Group at 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933. Periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Michigan.
Managing Editor Mary Gajda mary@m3group.biz
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517 Business and Life, Volume 5, Issue 8, October 2023.
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contents
Oct. 2023
15 Charging Toward the Future Consumers Energy’s Bethany Tabor talks EV transformation
35 Putting the Brakes on a Stereotype Under the hood with Kate Kleinschmidt, owner of Jane’s Garage
Learn more about the 2023 Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards judges panel on page 24. 517 5
contents
On the cover: Bethany Tabor
business SNAPSHOT 8 AREA A Snapshot of Local Business News Affecting the 517
NEWS 10 NOTABLE Professional Highlights from the 517 Region
20 A Brief Look at State and National STATE/NATIONAL
News Affecting our Region
THE RECORD 22 ON Get Your Motor (Quietly) Runnin’ TIPS 23 BIZ Navigating Leadership SPOTLIGHT 24 JUDGES 2023 Greater Lansing
Entrepreneurial Awards Judges
27 PERSPECTIVE Busload of Bravery
lifestyle 30 PLACES Road Warriors
Cruise-ins let auto enthusiasts show their metal
HELPERS 32 HOME Maximizing Your Garage Space 5 creative storage hacks for a clutter-free oasis
READS 38 GOOD ‘Aging Optimally’ Part 2
41 RECIPE Oh, Honey!
Roasted, glazed pumpkin wedges
42 PLAY Visit 517living.com for More Lansing-Area Activities
43 NONPROFIT A Beacon of Independence DEPARTMENTS
2 PUBLISHER’S NOTE 45 WRAP UP
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AREA SNAPSHOT p.8 NOTABLE NEWS p.10 STATE/NATIONAL p.20 ON THE RECORD p.22 BIZ TIPS p.23 PERSPECTIVE p. 27
CRUISE CONTROL A LOOK AT THE CURRENT STATE OF CAR SALES IN LANSING When it comes to current challenges in the auto sales industry, Ralph Shaheen, owner of Shaheen Chevrolet and Shaheen Cadillac of Lansing, has learned firsthand that you just have to keep everything in cruise. “Auto dealerships face a lot of challenges, one of the biggest is personnel. Qualified technicians are in short supply,” Shaheen said. “Today’s technician has to be computer-savvy as well as technology-savvy.” That also holds true for product specialists who need to understand all the functions of modern vehicles, including OnStar, Bluetooth and XM Radio, not to mention the large computer screens that can sometimes be intimidating for a new vehicle owner. Adapting to the times has been key to a smooth drive for Shaheen. “We fight the rising costs of doing business every day and have learned and adapted to lower inventory counts,” he said. “Interest rates make the cost of ownership more challenging, but credit unions and GM Financial have rates that are below what the current prime is, and that is a big help.” Shaheen also said manufacturers have met the chip shortage challenge, and that is no longer a big issue today.
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business / AREA SNAPSHOT
A snapshot of local business news affecting the 517 JACKSON DOWNTOWN GROWS, RESIDENTIAL PLAN SUCCESSFUL BY RICH ADAMS
In 2018, USA Today ran an article about 28 cities that never recovered from the Great Recession. Jackson was No. 16 on the list. However, five years later, the city appears to be rebounding nicely. The poverty rate has dropped from 36.3% in 2017 to 23.8% in 2020. Median household income in 2017 was $28,697; in 2021, it grew to $38,298. The downtown area is perking up with two major projects in the works. The historic Hayes Hotel in downtown Jackson is being transformed into 91 apartments. The city sold the building to J. Jeffers and Co. for $25,000. The developer is spending $27.2 million to transform the 10-story building into two floors of commercial space and the rest into apartments. Another historic building, the Masonic Temple, will be transformed into a community kitchen for residents needing space to start small food-based businesses, according to a city news release. The kitchen will also be used as a job training center to prepare people for food industry careers. Most remarkable, perhaps, is the transformation of blighted neighborhoods. Instead of simply demolishing the buildings and creating vacant lots, the city used state and federal funding and out-of-thebox thinking to turn them into affordable homes. “Part of our demolition was forecasting for the future,” said Jackson Community Development Director Shane LaPorte. “At some point, we need to have locations to build, so we wanted to make sure we got rid of the basement, put in clean fill … to make it easier for development in the future.” Public services were situated at the curbside so developers could readily connect to sewer service. The city was already taking part in a lead service line replacement program, so water lines to the homes would be provided. Then, LaPorte didn’t wait for developers to come to him. He started making cold calls to developers inviting them to tour Jackson.
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“I started calling builders and just saying, ‘Hey, if you’re going to spend your money somewhere, come to Jackson. We have housing studies that show we need housing, and we have great amenities here with golf and parks and recreation — and, please, come take a look,’” he said. They did — and they began building affordable homes ranging in size from 1,200 to 1,400 square feet. To entice possible homeowners, the city created a queue of approved buyers. The city had a $25,000 down payment assistance program, and the Michigan State Housing Development Authority offered a homebuyer class, which resulted in another $10,000, bringing the price of a $175,000 home to $140,000, LaPorte explained. “Sometimes government gets in the way; and we decided we didn’t want to get in the way, and we wanted to go alongside the developers and future homeowners and lend them a helping hand,” LaPorte said.
business / AREA SNAPSHOT
NEW BUSINESSES OPEN IN REGION BY MARY GAJDA
Entrepreneurial spirit seems alive and well as new businesses continue to open in the region. The BORN Dance Academy opened Sept. 5 at 631 E. Saginaw Highway in Grand Ledge. The business is enrolling dancers at borndanceacademy.com.
“We are thrilled to be offering a very inclusive dance school where all ages and levels are welcome,” said owner Erin Born. “Whether you want to compete or just have some fun with friends, you belong here.” Self-proclaimed 517 safety guru Tracy Hazel is opening the 517 Training Center at 13182 Schavey Road, Suite B, in DeWitt. The center will be providing state and federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration compliance-related training for local skilled trades workers, construction and manufacturing groups, and individuals. “Safety is not just a profession for me; it’s a passion,” said Hazel. “I want to empower individuals to take charge of their own safety and the safety of others. Together, we can create a world where accidents are preventable.” Entrepreneur Gracie Perrault, 21, has opened Glow by Gracie at 2199 Jolly Road, Suite 125, in Okemos. Glow by Gracie is a premier custom airbrush spray tan and teeth-whitening salon. Perrault started her first business at the age of 12. “My lifelong passion for enhancing natural beauty has fueled this venture,” Perrault said. “The response from the community has been overwhelming. People are increasingly valuing healthier alternatives, and our all-natural approach to beauty has resonated strongly with our clients.”
SCHOOL BUSES ARE GOING GREEN BY STACY BOGARD
The sound and smell of a fuel-run school bus are pretty distinctive and embedded in the memories of all who have ridden them. However, “the times they are a-changin’” as more electric vehicles, including school buses, are introduced to our roadways. Dean Transportation, a family-run, Lansing-based transportation company, is making strides in this area with the introduction of its first electric school bus, which will join the Cadillac Area Public Schools fleet this fall. It was secured through a grant from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. Dean also has plans to deploy six electric school buses at Trenton Public Schools over the next three years through a partnership with DTE Energy. For Dean, these projects mark the beginning of long-term change as it relates to electrification in school transportation and ways to reduce its carbon footprint. “Electric school buses appear to be a great use case for fully electric vehicles,” said Christopher Dean, director of innovation. “Range anxiety and charging infrastructure concerns are mitigated as school buses generally start and stop from the same location as the charging infrastructure, with extended periods of downtime overnight to allow for adequate charging. “Understanding run requirements as they relate to the distance traveled and the vehicle’s state of charge will be critical to successfully deploying an electric school bus,” he added. “Dean’s
operations team is continuously evaluating runs to determine which ones will be best suited.” According to an article from Interesting Engineering, while electric buses have a higher price tag, there are lower operating costs, saving the district anywhere from $4,000 to $11,000 per bus per year. Most diesel buses get 8.20 miles per gallon while electric ones are 20.87 miles per diesel gallon equivalent, which is almost 60% more energy-efficient, according to a fact sheet from the Environmental Defense Fund. “Given the current price of electric school buses and required charging infrastructure, the path to purchase and deploy electric school buses is tied directly to grant funding opportunities,” Dean said. “Dean plans to continue pursuing all available opportunities that support the purchase and deployment of electric school buses.” Most recently, Dean has submitted a grant funding application for the purchase and deployment of electric school buses in Lansing and other Michigan communities through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Program. Grant awards will be made between November and January. Additionally, when the funding process is announced, Dean is poised to pursue the $125 million allocated in the 2024 state budget to help school districts across the state deploy zero-emission school buses.
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business / NOTABLE NEWS
PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 517 REGION Petersmark Elected Chair of the MAB Board of Directors Debbie Petersmark, vice president and general manager for Gray Television’s WILX-TV 10, was elected chair of the Michigan Association of Broadcasters board of directors during the organization’s annual business meeting in August. Petersmark is the 78th chair of the MAB. “Debbie has been a strong voice as a part of our MAB board executive committee for years, and we are fortunate
to now have her leading the board,” said MAB President and CEO Sam Klemet. “Her commitment to advocating on behalf of the entire
industry and vision of the future will help move the MAB and future of broadcast media forward.”
Debbie Petersmark
MSUFCU Launches Culture of Finances Michigan State University Federal Credit Union launched a new financial education initiative called the Culture of Finances. The program, led by MSUFCU financial educators, aims to foster financial confidence and empowerment among both young people and adults alike, covering topics such as budgeting, understanding
Value-driven plans. More resources. Better business benef its.
ews our n COM y t i bm AG.
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credit, debt management and effective financial goal-setting. The courses offer personalized financial education, address economic and social barriers, and present strategies to help adults and young people ages 13-17 overcome financial fears. “For over a decade, our financial education department has been developing innovative ways to educate members of our community to help everyone reach their financial dreams. However, we asked ourselves, ‘How can we further this initiative by providing financial literacy to those who are underrepresented?’” said April Clobes, MSUFCU president and CEO. Smith Named Chair of Veterans Coalition Inetta Smith was recently elected chair of the Lansing Area Veterans
Coalition. She is the daughter of a World War II U.S. Army Air Corps veteran, the mother of an active U.S. Army recruiter and the widow of Inetta Smith a U.S. Army Vietnam veteran. Smith is currently the business development manager for NovaCare Rehabilitation in the central Michigan area. She has taken on the leadership role as the health care chair of the coalition. In her role as coalition chair, Smith’s goal is to grow the membership
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and create new ways to reach more veterans and their families in the counties served by the organization. Lansing Center to Make $5M in Improvements The Lansing Center, managed by the Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority, has received a $5 million appropriation from the state of Michigan to fund the first major round of capital improvements to the facility in more than 15 years. “The Lansing Center is an asset to our region, attracting visitors and conference-goers from all over. Our city has experienced tremendous growth since this center was built in 1987,” said Scott Keith, president and CEO of LEPFA. “It is time to reflect that
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business / NOTABLE NEWS
growth and vibrancy by bringing a new, modern look; improved energy-efficient lighting; and innovative security upgrades to it.” Improvements slated to begin include safety and security upgrades and enhancements, roof and building envelope repairs, energy- and building-efficiency as well as technology upgrades, new building marquees, flooring and furnishings, restroom improvements, elevator upgrades, and new food service options. Rudd Takes Helm at Williamston Senior Center Julie Rudd is the new executive director of the Williamston Area Senior Center. Rudd has been volunteering at the senior center for years. She has served as board secretary for three years, Julie Rudd helped with the senior center millage and has assisted in scouting locations for a future building/ facility. Prior to being named executive director, Rudd served as assistant director and interim director. McGinnity Joins Origami Rehabilitation Board Origami Rehabilitation has appointed John G. McGinnity to its board of directors. With more than 25 years of experience, McGinnity brings his expertise and passion for improving access to care to Origami Rehabilitation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit specializing in comprehensive rehabilitation services.
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McGinnity’s career includes founding the PA Medicine Program and serving as a professor and director at Michigan State University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine.
John G. McGinnity
Braatz-Opper Earns RICP Designation Financial representative Grace BraatzOpper of Modern Woodmen earned the retirement income certified professional designation Grace Braatz-Opper through the American College of Financial Services. The RICP program empowers financial professionals with the knowledge needed to become experts in today’s fastgrowing retirement planning market. It is an extensive and intensive retirement income education that covers all retirement income styles and strategies. Tools include estate planning techniques, portfolio assessment, personal finance best practices, health expense budget creation, home equity strategies and more. LCC Trustee Named Chair of Community College Association The Michigan Community College Association’s 2023-2024 executive committee includes Lansing Community College Trustee Robert Proctor as chair.
Proctor is the treasurer of the Lansing Community College board of trustees and an attorney, arbitrator and mediator. He is a retired administrative law judge for the Michigan Department of Civil Service and served as legal counsel for the labor committee in the Michigan House of Representatives. “Michigan community colleges are always working to create opportunities and remove barriers to ensure that Michiganders can realize their full potential,” said Proctor. “It is an honor to lead the MCCA executive committee and collaborate together to keep strengthening our community and tribal campuses.” Airport Authority Elects Board Posts The Capital Region Airport Authority has reelected John Shaski as chair of the board of directors and elected Victor Celentino as vice chair. Shaski has been a member of the board for nine years, serving as chair for five years. Celentino has served on the board for 22 years. “I am committed to continue working collaboratively with my fellow board members, airport leadership and our stakeholders to ensure that both the Capital Region International Airport and Mason Jewett Field Airport continue to thrive and grow, providing exceptional service to our passengers, tenants and the community at large,” said Shaski. Food Bank Announces Board Members The Greater Lansing Food Bank, which provides emergency food assistance to families and neighbors in the midMichigan counties of Clare, Clinton, Eaton, Gratiot, Ingham, Isabella and Shiawassee, announced new board members and its executive committee for fiscal year 2024.
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New members of the board of directors are Lynn Griffor, chief experience officer and vice president of philanthropy for McLaren Greater Lansing, and Luan Nguyen, chief investment officer for River Caddis Development. The board of directors also approved its fiscal year 2024 executive committee, which includes Chair Nikali Luke, partner at Simplified Accounting and Tax Service, PC; Vice Chair Kevin Zielke, senior vice president and general counsel at AF Group; Treasurer Ken Klein, registered investment adviser for Northbrook Investment Management, LLC; and Secretary Lavon Dennis, senior director of Coverys Insurance Services. Ziebart Franchisee Recognized with Rock Star Award Lansing Ziebart franchisee Drew Nicholoff has been recognized by Franchise Business Review with a Franchise Rock Star Award in the category of millennial-owned franchises. Nicholoff was selected for the award out of more than 250 nominations in eight different categories. Nicholoff’s journey with Ziebart began in 2010, when he started working as an accessory installer. It wasn’t until 2020 that Nicholoff came across an opportunity to purchase the store he had been working at for the past decade. Despite the various challenges brought on by the pandemic, Nicholoff’s Ziebart location has maintained a continuous path of growth every year. Lansing Attorneys Recognized as Best in their Practice Loomis, Ewert, Parsley, Davis and Gotting, PC announced that the Best Lawyers in America has recognized the following Lansing Loomis attorneys as
best lawyers in their practice areas for 2024. Lawyers recognized from the firm include: Michael G. Oliva: administrative/ regulatory law and energy law. Paula K. Manis: arbitration, mediation, and oil and gas law. James F. Anderton V: business organizations including LLCs and partnerships, closely held companies and family businesses law, and tax law. Jeffrey S. Theuer: commercial litigation and construction law. Michael H. Rhodes: corporate law and health care law. In addition, The Best Lawyers in America has also recognized James R. Neal and Paula K. Manis as Lawyer of the Year for 2024.
Michael H. Rhodes
Michael G. Oliva
Paula K. Manis
James F. Anderton V
Jeffery S. Theuer
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M3 Group Team Growing Headquartered in Lansing, M3 Group recently increased the creative ranks of the award-winning branding and marketing agency with the addition of four new team members. Angela Winkler was added as client strategist. Winkler’s experience comes from multiple radio and televisions stations in Michigan, Florida and Angela Winkler North Carolina. Dave Busch recently joined the team as associate creative director. Busch brings a decades-long background in advertising and assists content and Dave Busch client strategists. Devon Kirby has been brought on as office administrator. Kirby formerly worked at M3 Group as a sales associate and has recently returned in Devon Kirby his new role. Susan Schumacher was recently hired as senior media strategist. Schumacher has more than 30 years in the media Susan Schumacher buying arena.
James R. Neal
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FEATURE
TA ETHANY B ’S Y G R ERS ENE N CONSUM ORMATIO F S N A R VT TALKS E BY OMAR
BOR
IJA
SOFRADZ
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FEATURE
We’re really focused on powering Michigan’s electric vehicle future and our electric vehicle transformation here in the state.
Brian Wheeler, media relations manager for Consumers, and Bethany Tabor.
ethany Tabor recently had a pizza delivered to her home via an electric vehicle. While that may seem cool now, she hopes EVs are just another ho-hum way to get around as soon as 2030. That’s when the state of Michigan plans to have the infrastructure in place to support 2 million EVs on the roads. Yet with seven years to go, Consumers Energy — which expects to service half those EVs, and where Tabor is manager of business electric vehicle programs — counts just over 29,000 in its entire service area today. So, there’s still a long way to go; however, the electric utility is looking to jump-start the future of driving with incentive programs aimed at getting businesses, governments and households to start growing the state’s network of vehicle charging stations and workday EV fleets. “We’re really focused on powering Michigan’s electric vehicle future and our electric vehicle transformation here in the state. So, what we’re really trying to do
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is make the electric vehicle experience easy, affordable and convenient for all Michiganders,” said Tabor. Through incentive programs — PowerMIDrive for residential homeowners and public charging at PowerMIDrive.com and PowerMIFleet for businesses and government agencies — Consumers Energy offers “rebates for charging stations at homes, businesses, public locations and also for fleets. So, businesses that want to electrify their fleet, we also have rebates for charging stations for them as well,” Tabor said. “We’re really trying to help people get equitable access to EVs and EV charging stations by making it more affordable.” So far, Consumers has provided more than 4,000 incentives for EV chargers. “We do know that about 80% of charging takes place at home for EV drivers; but when it comes to the public charging stations, those are the stations that drivers are going to use to get from point A to point B when they’re on those longer road trips. That deployment is really in its infancy,” Tabor said. “So, we’ve got a lot of work to go.”
Consumers is hoping to see new EV charging stations in places such as: • Publicly accessible locales like supermarkets, gas stations and retail stores. • Overnight hospitality providers, such as hotels and campgrounds. • Municipalities of all sizes across the state. • Private homes and multifamily properties, including apartment complexes and condominiums. “Our PowerMIDrive program has rebates for what we call fast-charging stations, and those are really akin to the gas station model: You want to get in and get out, get a quick charge and get back on the road. We really look for locations that have amenities like restrooms, snacks, a place for the kids to get out and stretch their legs, use the restroom, and then get back on the road,” Tabor said.
FEATURE The residential program also looks to build good EV charging habits so not to stress the power grid. PowerMIDrive participants are eligible for a $500 charger installation rebate and a $10 monthly incentive for 12 months by charging overnight on weekdays. “One of the best opportunities that we have to really keep the demand on the grid well-paced is by encouraging electric vehicle drivers to charge their vehicles overnight when we have excess capacity,” Tabor said. PowerMIFleet looks to electrify vehicle fleets in both the private and public sectors. Tabor said the commercial program offers charger rebates of up to $70,000, free select infrastructure upgrades, and “some really expert consultants who we partnered with to provide fleet electrification assessments to help businesses that own and operate a fleet of vehicles make that plan to transition to a fleet of electric vehicles.” Currently, the program has more than 50 business customers. “These are customers who own and operate a fleet of vehicles, and they are looking to eventually purchase some
electric vehicles and retire their gas- or diesel-powered vehicles to make a bigger impact on the community,” Tabor said. “Through the PowerMIFleet program, we’ve seen that every single customer who’s participated in an assessment has seen some level of cost savings and certainly environmental benefits that can be achieved by going electric. The numbers make sense.” Plus, Consumers Energy has a team of EV advisers accessible through its EV website pages who can help novices, experts and everyone in between navigate their options and get answers to their EV questions, according to Brian Wheeler, media relations manager for Consumers Energy. “No matter what the inquiry is, we’re trying to connect all our community members who reach out with questions to the right resources and information to help them, whether they’re considering buying, have already purchased and need help choosing a charging station or are looking at what kind of different incentives are applicable to them,” Tabor said. “That’s what our team is here to do.”
HOW TO GET STARTED ON AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE FUTURE Consumers Energy offers incentive and assistance programs for residential customers, private companies and public agencies looking to use electric vehicles and expand related charging infrastructure. Programs, audiences, contact information and notable incentives are listed here:
FOR BUSINESSES AND AGENCIES: PowerMIFleet.com ON THE WEB
PowerMIFleet@cmsenergy.com EMAIL
•
Charging station rebates of up to $70,000.
•
Cover costs to upgrade electric infrastructure from power lines to transformers and meters.
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Conduct a customized electrification assessment for fleets.
FOR RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMERS: PowerMIDrive.com ON THE WEB
PowerMIDrive@cmsenergy.com EMAIL
•
$500 off installation costs for a qualified charger.
•
$10 monthly incentive for overnight charging (up to 12 months per EV).
•
Access to EV advisers for advice and troubleshooting.
Source: Consumers Energy website.
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SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT
The tax incentive program allows a company creating new jobs to essentially defer their state income taxes into an account with LCC so they can use those dollars to train workforce.
GOING ELECTRIC:
This means companies can invest in “upskilling” their workforce as times change, and it is why working with LCC is a great fit for the auto industry and the companies that innovate for its future, like Ultium. According to LCC Director of Corporate Training and Continuing Education Chad Borodychuk, the BCI is apt to working with the auto industry because automotive clients can tailor their training programs to include exactly what their business needs.
BY ANDY BRENT
LCC and BCI’s commitment to detail is perhaps the most impressive and important part of the partnership. No Ultium employees are being trained yet, because most are yet to be hired. Instead, Borodychuk and his team are working with industry experts at Ultium to develop, plan and strategize the rollout of Ultium’s entirely customized trainings such that they will be ready as employees come on board. Borodychuk understands comprehensively organizing the training program, and predicting its impact, is most important to successful execution.
AUTOMOTIVE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AT LANSING’S COLLEGE
The way we drive is elementally changing, and business here in Michigan stands to benefit. As demand for electric vehicles move from exotic to common to the norm, the automotive industry is moving fast to contemporize and provide consumers what they value. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), electric car sales (not including hybrids) accounted for only 0.2% of all vehicle sales in 2011, but have risen past 5% in 2023; furthermore, the BLS forecasts that more than 50% of all vehicles is the US will be fully electric by 2030. Locally, Ultium Cells, LLC has partnered with General Motors in an effort to make Lansing the forefront of national electric vehicle (EV) battery production. In September 2022, Ultium broke ground on the company’s third battery cell manufacturing facility in Lansing. The finished facility will cover 2.8 million square feet, realizing an investment of more than $2 billion dollars. By the time the facility opens in late 2024, Ultium plans to have created more than 1,700 new high-tech jobs in Lansing. Those new jobs require fast, streamlined training customized to Ultium’s needs. That’s where Lansing Community College (LCC) comes in. LCC’s Business and Community Institute (BCI) offers trainings to all businesses needing assistance in boosting employee skillsets. For businesses creating new jobs, LCC is able to utilize the Michigan New Jobs Training Program (MNJTP).
“We’ve done a ton of training with GM over the years, at multiple GM plants as well as at our own West Campus training facilities,” Borodychuk said. “Right now, we’re partnering with GM for welding trainings. Our mode of delivery is attractive to GM and other large companies facing fundamental changes in their products because all of our trainings are specific to our clients’ corporate needs. The bottom line is, we’re a custom shop. We make it happen, however the company needs their trainings done.”
“Over the course of the first three years of our contract, we will be establishing that intense training plan in order to get all these individuals upskilled in the way that Ultium desires,” Borodychuk said. “Our trainings take concepts and requirements that are extremely detailed and streamline them to fit the trainings our clients need. We’ll customize it, we’ll pull it together, we’ll find the resources and construct trainings to exactly the client’s specifications, because attention to detail means streamlining success.” The ability to hire and train while establishing operations is a big advantage for Ultium. Plant Director Grace Griffin sees LCC’s BCI as a longterm partner as Ultium creates jobs in Lansing. “Ultium Lansing appreciates the strategic partnership with LCC’s BCI team to make our facility successful,” Griffin said. “Through the partnership with LCC and the State of Michigan, we plan to train our workforce of 1,700 team members. The BCI will provide necessary leadership and additional technical training required for our facility’s long-term success. We are greatly looking forward to working together as we grow our organization.”
“We teach students how to correctly diagnosis and repair vehicles, to become a successful automotive technician. Our lab assignments and activities are based off industry diagnostic and repair procedures to give our students as much real-world experience as possible.”
In addition to the benefits BCI trainings can have for industries, workers find great value, too. BLS statistics show manufacturing occupations in EV technology can carry starting wages over $50,000 per year. LCC automotive faculty member Marvin Argersinger helps educate students for lucrative jobs in the automotive industry every day. “Like most technical programs, the auto program has a high percentage of hands-on activities for our students to complete,” Argersinger said. “We teach students how to correctly diagnosis and repair vehicles, to become a successful automotive technician. Our lab assignments and activities are based off industry diagnostic and repair procedures to give our students as much real-world experience as possible.” LCC’s automotive program began in the mid-1970s at the Downtown Campus. In 2005, the program moved to the college’s West Campus, where a state-of-theart training facility waited to train the next generation of Lansing’s auto workers. The program has also been a member of the National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC) for the past 26 years, and a Snap-on Certified Training Center for 12 years. Keeping automotive on the industry’s cutting edge is part of keeping graduates competitive, according to Argersinger. The program is currently involved in two electric vehicle grants: the Electric Vehicle Jobs Academy (EVJA) and the Northwest Engineering and Vehicle Technology Exchange (NEVTEX). “Both are similar in their deliverables, curriculum development, professional development and a portion of the funding to obtain equipment to conduct electric vehicle classes. These grants will increase the depth of our current courses and help our students learn more about electric vehicles and again, experience hands on activities with these types of vehicles,” he said. As the automotive industry moves into a new era of power through electricity, LCC’s BCI is taking corporate education to new heights with direct input from employers as the college itself uses real-world industry standards to train students for their own paths in the automotive industry. LCC offers seven automotive degrees and certificates; furthermore, LCC instructors teach from real-world, on-the-job experience. In this way, LCC and the BCI help to stimulate the automotive economy in Lansing, the state and beyond. For more information on fully customized corporate trainings through the BCI, visit lcc.edu.bci. For more information on joining the automotive industry with an LCC education, visit lcc.edu/automotive.
Photography by Kevin Fowler
business / STATE/NATIONAL
A BRIEF LOOK AT STATE AND NATIONAL NEWS AFFECTING OUR REGION
THE STATE OF THREADS AND X BY CHRISTINE MACINTYRE
Social media has provided a space for marketing, social networking, lead generation and audience engagement. However, not all social media platforms are identical and don’t serve every user similarly. In light of Twitter’s transition to X and the emergence of Meta’s newest platform, Threads, some consumers are abandoning their long-standing accounts to seek platforms that better serve their needs.
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Businesses utilizing social media for advertising or marketing purposes have mostly shifted away from X, although it hasn’t ever been considered a solid tool. Joe Karasin, founder and chief marketing officer of digital marketing company Karasin PPC, said there’s some ambiguity surrounding X. “Until they’re able to sort out what they’re doing, it may continue to see users leave. The problem it has is that as consumers leave the platform, most businesses will neglect it,” he said, adding that while most businesses have foregone X, “the vast majority are merely keeping a presence there and utilizing it to connect with journalists for PR purposes.” In contrast to Twitter’s stagnancy despite rebranding as X, Threads is a shiny new object in the social media arena, as it’s the latest platform built off Instagram. Karasin said his clients utilize Threads to join conversations and socialize. “Until Meta finds a path to monetization, I suspect it will be just another avenue for brands to increase their presence and climb toward the omnichannel experience for their customers and potential customers,” he said. Social media thought leader Mari Smith agreed that Threads needs to be improved. “(It) doesn’t seem to meet a new need in the marketplace. It’s very much ‘same-old’ with copycat features from Twitter, now X,” she said. Since Threads is built off Instagram, users obtain a new Threads account with the simple click of a button, making it more like a “feature of Instagram, not so much a new platform.” Smith noted that based on head of Instagram Adam Mosseri’s recent announcements, one aspect of Threads that might appeal to a narrow set of users is its support of the fediverse makes it interoperable with other apps. “And, if we zoom out, it’s possible one of Meta’s main goals with Threads is to keep a pulse on real-time, global conversations to be able to use this data to better train its large language model, or a type of artificial intelligence algorithm that can mimic human intelligence,” he said. Smith concluded that both platforms, Threads and X, “are definitely well and truly in the arms race to include as many AI advancements as possible.” The future of Threads and X is seemingly up in the air. Consumers are taking leave of X, citing the platform has little to offer, and are, so far, dissatisfied with Threads’ lack of the core features users want.
ARE CARS SMARTER THAN HACKERS? BY CHRISTINE MACINTYRE
Who knew that back in the early 1980s KITT from the TV show “Knight Rider” would be a glimpse into the future? Some cars are so smart that today’s more advanced models utilize advanced driver assistance systems; autonomous driving capabilities; and connected infotainment systems to improve safety, convenience and connectivity. Unfortunately, as cars advance technologically, so do methods of stealing and hacking into their systems. Are cars smart enough to thwart these threats, or do more smarts equate to increased vulnerability? Clever technological advancements mean some cars are privy to information such as where owners drive, what time they typically go, and their preferred temperature and seat position. These features might sound promising since these abilities should mean that a car can easily detect deviations from the norm (e.g., a nonowner drives the vehicle to an unusual location at an abnormal time of day). Regardless, avoiding hackers might require more than these shiny new features. Patrick McCann is the editor-in-chief at wetrytires.com, an online resource dedicated to education about tire maintenance, and is known as the car guy. He suggested that technological advancement in cars is both good and bad. “Personally, I like older and simpler cars that I can fix myself and don’t have to worry about being tracked or monitored by my vehicle,” he said. Based on his knowledge about modern cars, McCann said cars aren’t smart enough to avoid hackers. “An occasion might happen where you lend your car to someone, or you drive somewhere in the middle of the night, and
I don’t think people would be very pleased if their car intervened because it assumed it was being stolen,” he said. Having worked in the automotive industry for eight years, Ankit Dhadwal, founder and CEO at assessment company Mount Shine, said that automakers are fighting to prevent hackers from infiltrating the systems and software installed in cars. “It’s a problem that many are facing, and new technologies are being developed to make them smart enough to avoid hacking,” he said. Automakers continuously deploy regular software updates, rigorous security assessments, testing and prompt patching of identified vulnerabilities to deter hackers who seek to gain unauthorized access, manipulate systems or compromise driver safety and privacy. Dhadwal said it’s a balancing act between innovation and cybersecurity to ensure vehicle integrity and security. Tesla cars, for example, employ features such as PIN to Drive and advanced key fob encryption to safeguard their systems against hacking attempts. “Volvo has also developed a new system that has been patented, adding extra layers of protection to prevent rolling password attacks,” said Dhadwal. Consumers should also be diligent on their part. “Avoid using compromised car apps, educate yourself about telematics exploits and key fob attacks, and seek guidance from your car dealer regarding cybersecurity measures,” said Dhadwal. Additionally, he said consumers should be cautious when connecting devices and use secure networks to reduce the risk of cybersecurity threats and ensure a safer driving experience.
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business / ON THE RECORD
GET YOUR MOTOR (QUIETLY) RUNNIN’ Photography by Kevin Fowler LCC
ON THE RECORD WITH MARV ARGERSINGER OF LCC AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGIES BY STACY BOGARD
As the automotive landscape continues to dramatically change, the automotive technologies department at Lansing Community College has been evolving with it. Students are not only learning how to diagnose, repair and maintain cars with conventional internal combustion engines but electric vehicles and advanced driver assist systems as well. “We’re constantly updating the curriculum to keep up,” said Marv Argersinger, lead faculty and professor in the LCC automotive technologies program. “Internal combustion engines won’t go away all at once, and the tech is still improving, so we’re training on those as well as new technology, which results in different ways of looking at things. It can be pretty exciting if you’re in this industry.” Argersinger noted this has been the biggest service-related change since 1995-1996, when the onboard diagnostics systems switched from the first generation to the second generation, which standardized vehicle protocols and system checks. “The change this time is even bigger and more mainstream,” he said. “People will be more accepting as the infrastructure for electric vehicles grows. For most, their daily driving habits easily accommodate using an EV. For example, getting to and from work and even running a few errands. I think we’ll see a lot more of these and hybrids as range anxiety is lessened.” Argersinger has been teaching at LCC for more than 25 years and worked for a local Chevrolet dealer for about 16 years before that as an auto technician, shop foreman and service manager. From maintaining
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equipment and machinery while growing up on a farm to taking automotive classes through St. Johns Public Schools and obtaining his associate degree and certifications, he’s always enjoyed the challenge of diagnosing problems and repairing them. “It’s a good feeling to figure it out and have it fixed,” he said. “I never thought of doing anything else.” Teaching has furthered his sense of reward from the field. “You can see students start to understand something, it ‘clicks’ and makes sense,” Argersinger said. LCC has several degrees and certificates available, including ones that cover all aspects of diagnosis, repairs and maintenance, as well as ones focused on specific areas like engine performance, brakes and suspension systems, and electrical and HVAC diagnostics. “We address topics most people probably wouldn’t associate with cars, such as wearing the proper personal protective equipment for working with a car that is ‘live’ and cybersecurity,” Argersinger noted. There are around 100 students in the program now along with high school students from the Eaton Regional Education Service Agency. “It’s a good career to get into, very rewarding and not just a job,” said Argersinger. “Whatever kinds of cars we have, people will always need them to be worked on. There’s a huge need for automotive technicians. I’m constantly hearing from area employers.” If you’re interested in learning more about the program, visit LCC’s website at lcc.edu/academics/transportation/automotivetechnologies/index.html.
business / BIZ TIPS
NAVIGATING LEADERSHIP
SERVICE, EMPATHY AND COLLABORATION ARE KEYS TO TEAM GROWTH BY SHELLEY DAVIS BOYD
Leadership can be one of the most challenging yet rewarding facets of a professional journey. The experiences gained while leading others can lead to profound personal growth, shaping your career and character. Some of the most significant lessons in leadership and opportunities for growth can be learned when guiding those reluctant to be led. Listening: The Foundation of Effective Leadership Effective leadership begins with active listening. When you take the time to genuinely hear what your team members have to say, you build trust and create an environment where they feel valued. Whether they are enthusiastic about being led or not, lending them an empathetic ear can be transformative. In the words of Stephen R. Covey, “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.” By actively listening, you can bridge the gap between yourself and those who may initially resist your leadership. Asking the Right Questions One of the most powerful tools in a leader’s arsenal is the ability to ask the right questions. Instead of assuming you have all the answers, embrace humility and curiosity. Encourage your team to open up by asking questions like, “Tell me what I don’t know?” This invites valuable insights and demonstrates your willingness to learn
and grow alongside your team. It fosters collaboration and mutual respect, regardless of initial reluctance. Process Over People When facing resistance to your leadership, shifting your focus from individuals to processes is crucial. The root cause of resistance is often in the system or procedures rather than the people themselves. By examining process gaps, you can identify and rectify issues hindering your team’s progress. This approach removes blame from individuals, making it easier for them to accept your guidance. Clear Communication: Setting Expectations Clear communication is the lighthouse that guides any successful leadership journey. People resist what they don’t understand, so it’s your responsibility to ensure that your team members comprehend their roles and expectations. Provide them with the tools to excel and offer consistent feedback to foster growth. Communicating clearly and openly reduces ambiguity and builds a stronger foundation for your leadership. Remember that leadership is not solely about authority but also service, collaboration and continuous improvement. By leading with empathy and a commitment to growth, you can turn even the most reluctant followers into engaged and motivated team members, thereby enriching your collective professional journey.
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DECISIONS OF SIGNIFICANCE MEET THE 2023 GREATER LANSING ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS JUDGES The Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards judges are integral to the process each year. Not only do they spend hours reading nominee submissions, but they meet to discuss and thoughtfully approach finalizing their list of winners. It is not an easy task; but in the end, they are committed to choosing winners who play a pivotal role in business in our community. Here’s a look at the 2023 panel of judges. 2023 Entrepreneurial Award winners will be featured in our November issue of 517 Magazine.
BRYAN BENTON Bryan Benton is an assistant manager of the Michigan chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association. The trade association is the voice of the $171 billion electrical construction industry that brings power, light and communication technology to buildings and communities across the United States. In his role, Benton negotiates labor contracts, helps resolve grievances between labor and management, and provides advice and resources to the 200 signatory electrical contractors who operate in the jurisdiction. In August, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer appointed Benton to the Michigan Electrical Administrative Board, which makes recommendations for electrical code rules; grants annual licenses and certificates to qualified applicants; and makes all orders, rules and regulations necessary for the enforcement and carrying out of the provisions of the act. 24
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DAN CURRIE Dan Currie is the agency manager for Great Lakes State Agency, a locally owned independent insurance agency that offers business, personal and life insurance coverage through numerous companies. A graduate of Northwood University, Currie earned his bachelor’s degree in business management. He has been in the insurance business since 2017; prior to that, Currie did standup comedy for 10 years, traveling throughout the country and locally running Mac’s Monday Night Comedy Show. Currie lives in East Lansing with his wife, Cortney. He enjoys hanging out with his pets, playing video games, going to music concerts, attending comedy shows and traveling around Michigan. He is honored to be involved in awarding local entrepreneurs for providing services to the Lansing community.
NICOLE DILTS Nicole Dilts graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in finance. She began her career with Michigan State University Federal Credit Union in 2009 and worked in member services, payment systems, accounting and finance before becoming vice president of commercial solutions in 2023. In her role, Dilts oversees the commercial solutions teams, including deposits, treasury management and lending. She is focused on member service, building relationships with commercial members and the overall success of the commercial solutions department. A lifelong Lansing-area resident, Dilts lives in DeWitt with her husband, Tim, and their two sons. She enjoys spending time with her family at their cabin on Higgins Lake along with her dogs, Toby and Cooper.
DEBBIE PETERSMARK Debbie Petersmark grew up working alongside relatives at Holden-Reid Clothiers in Lansing. She often works with local business owners and appreciates the hard work, sacrifice and joy that come with being an entrepreneur. Petersmark is the vice president and general manager of WILX Media, a Gray Media Group station that operates WILX-TV 10 (NBC) in Lansing, along with WILX.com and several cable channels. She joined WILX in 2000, becoming general sales manager in 2014 and vice president and general manager in 2018. She is a member of the board of directors for the Sparrow Foundation and the American Red Cross. She currently serves as board chair for the Michigan Association of Broadcasters. A lifelong resident of East Lansing, Petersmark holds a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University.
STACEY TRZECIAK Stacey Trzeciak is president of Foresight Group, a full-service printing company that supplies clients with deliverables ranging from print and direct mailing to promotional materials and signage with locations in Lansing and Ann Arbor. A longtime resident of Charlotte, Trzeciak never thought she would have a career in printing. She worked for Lansing Printing’s certified public accounting firm and made the transition in 1991. She found her passion for print and customer service and has grown with Foresight Group for 34 years. A self-proclaimed foodie, Trzeciak is known for putting as much love into her cooking as she does her work. You could say cooking for her husband, Larry, and sons, Mitchell and Alec, is her love language.
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business / PERSPECTIVE
BUSLOAD OF BRAVERY A Q&A WITH ANDREW BRIESCHKE, DEPUTY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AT CATA BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY
Few know that the Capital Area Transportation Authority acts as a sort of emergency first responder. How does that work? Typically, our operations dispatch center receives a call from any one of many first responders in the vast county that we serve, be it law enforcement, a fire department, emergency operations center or other public agency. They give us a little background about the situation and let us know how we can help. We respond to the call to action with immediacy. What are some past examples of where CATA has been called into action in an emergency? More often than not, they involve the need to provide a cooling bus during
hot summer days or a warming bus when temperatures dip below freezing. Residents call 211, and the city of Lansing Office of Emergency Management will coordinate a free ride to cooling and warming centers for residents with physical and financial needs. We also provide these warming and cooling buses for first responders, primarily firefighters, while they are on scene. We are also often asked to assist with evacuation efforts when, for example, there is a structure fire. If the structure is an apartment complex, residents may be displaced and in need of shelter. … More recently, during the Feb. 13, 2023, active-shooter tragedy at Michigan State University, CATA assisted with evacuations. Once the all-clear was issued, and through the early morning hours, we were there to transport students who were sheltering in place and transported them to the reunification center. CATA provided assistance for the Haven of Rest assisted living facility in Williamston during the Aug. 24 tornado. How did that play out? Our operations center supervisor received a call from Northeast Ingham Emergency Service Authority around 10 p.m. with a request for two buses to assist with an evacuation. … The first bus to arrive was one of our 40-foot buses. We got it up the long driveway and, once there, we learned there were nine residents who needed transportation. … We were
able to get the remaining nine residents, along with their essentials and mobility devices, into the bus, where they were then transported to the Ingham County Medical Care Facility on Dobie Road. While they did not need a second bus for residents, there was a very large and heavy cabinet that was filled with medication and personal information on all the residents. We used the second, smaller bus to load the cabinet and follow the large bus to Dobie Road. How do the bus operators prepare for such events? From the moment they are onboarded, CATA operators undergo extensive training to prepare them to manage a vehicle and passengers. … Even with great training, every situation is different. We have some of the best operators and supervisors, who put the safety of all of our passengers at the forefront. Is it safe to say that when people step onto a CATA bus, there may be a genuine hero behind the wheel? I definitely think that is safe to say. Over the years, I have been fortunate to witness our operators do amazing things in terms of keeping people safe and serving our community. Our core competency is to professionally and safely drive large vehicles. We do this every day, and we do it quite well. … Simply put, we are just doing our job.
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lifestyle
PLACES p.30 HOME HELPERS p.32 GOOD READS p.38 RECIPE p.41 PLAY p.42 NONPROFIT p.43
GEAR SHIFTS AND SHUTTER CLICKS Over 10 years ago, Emily Sigler turned a lifelong hobby into a career with her photography and videography business. Sigler has filmed everything from music videos to weddings, documentaries and more. She has worked with Michigan State University, the Michigan State Police, the Wharton Center for Performing Arts, Melting Moments and Air Lift Performance, to name a few. One passion, however, is clear. Cars. Sigler loves the driving experience and particularly loves sharing her track experiences with other young women. “Especially young women who don’t have the resources or know where to start,” Sigler said. “I know the position they are in. Oftentimes, I am the only woman at the track who is actually driving. I know I am not the only one who has this interest, and I would love to find a way to get more women in the driver’s seat.” Sigler will only purchase a car with manual transmission. She currently owns a 2007 BMW Z4 3.0si and a 1998 BMW Z3 Roadster. Her passion for cars has also led to a passion to capture them in both photo and video as part of her business. “I enjoy photographing vehicles for fun, but I also have automotive clients — those in the community who are very passionate about their cars and want them captured through photos or video.” Follow Sigler and see her work on Instagram @emsig17/.
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lifestyle / PLACES
ROAD WARRIORS
CRUISE-INS LET AUTO ENTHUSIASTS SHOW THEIR METAL STORY AND PHOTOS BY METRO MELIK
From all points of the compass throughout the summer and fall months, they pop up across mid-Michigan in what may seem like random and spontaneous locations to the uninitiated. To an untrained eye, it may seem like impromptu car park caucuses — sort of like a flash mob on wheels. Yet these classic car cruise-ins are well-organized assemblies for auto enthusiasts where the nostalgia of the past meets the community and camaraderie of the present.
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Michael Kempf’s 1969 Buick GS 400 convertible, one of 1,300 original stock, was built in Flint and has 101,000 miles, original interior and its second paint job.
Someone rolling into the Maple City Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2406 on Lansing Road in Charlotte this summer would have found a parking lot full of people enjoying food, drink, good company and some vintage vehicles.
Rick Vishop, president of the Charlotte Cruisers, said the organization raises money made from entry fees and donations. It uses the money to give out Christmas baskets for veterans. The Cruisers have a goal to grow by two members a year. In 2023, the group grew by 10. Cruise-ins like the one at the VFW post in Charlotte are usually free events. A car show usually has an entry fee for participants with vehicles, and awards are
given for class wins. Either way, they are filled with car enthusiasts who like to have people look at their vehicles. You don’t have to be a car buff to enjoy the history and nostalgia of a cruisein. With the Charlotte Cruisers, you could see anything from a 1929 Mercury to a 2017 Mustang and lots of cars and trucks in between.
Paul Campbell’s 1961 Chevrolet Shelby Apache 10 was built for farm use with six cylinders and three on the tree. Campbell modified his to three on the floor with a 350 and a small cam.
A 1957 Chevy two-door hardtop Bel Aire with a five-speed direct motor owned by Dick Stadel.
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lifestyle / HOME HELPERS
MAXIMIZING YOUR GARAGE SPACE As we head toward the cooler months and put all our lawn and garden items back in storage, most likely in our garage, we may need to work some magic to make it all fit again. Here are five space-saving ideas for your garage. Pegboard wall Install a pegboard on one of the walls to maximize vertical storage. Use hooks, shelves and holders to hang gardening tools and other items. This helps keep them safely off the floor and makes them easily accessible. Overhead storage Installing overhead racks and shelving makes for a perfect place to store seasonal items, large containers or items that aren’t frequently used. Just be responsible about weight limits and secure properly for safety. Magnetic strips Attach magnetic strips on the walls or even inside cabinet
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5 CREATIVE STORAGE HACKS FOR A CLUTTER-FREE OASIS BY 517 STAFF
doors to hold metal tools and small items. This will keep them visible and easy to find, instead of getting lost in the abyss that is your junk drawer. Storage bins Clear bins are great for storing items like sports equipment, holiday décor and even camping gear. It’s always easier to find what you’re looking for without even having to open the bin. No clear bins? Color code your bins for easy storage and to find what you need later. For example, holiday storage can go in green bins, while summer décor goes in blue. Give old furniture new life That ugly dresser is still functional. Move it to your garage to create a giant toolbox. You could even remove dresser drawers and replace them with one slat of wood to become a shelving unit. Remember to declutter and categorize before implementing these projects in order to make the most of your garage space.
personalized service for your financial needs. Our MSUFCU Mobile app and online service offer account access around the globe.
Empowering Through Financial Education
International Credit Union Day is a time to celebrate what makes credit unions unique. As a credit union member, you own a piece of the organization, and this helps ensure we act in your best interest. MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) was established in 1937 to provide a safe place where members could borrow and save money. Over the years, we’ve built strong relationships with our members and communities, helping people achieve their financial goals and dreams. This month, join us in celebrating International Credit Union Day and learn what makes MSUFCU unique:
Accessible Finances Worldwide with a Personal Touch MSUFCU proudly serves over 350,000 members worldwide. Our branches, call center, online chat and messages teams provide
MSUFCU is dedicated to protecting and improving the financial health of our communities by offering free financial education opportunities for all ages. Financial stability and success starts with having the knowledge to make safe and sound financial decisions. Our outreach efforts allow us to interact with people through seminars and programs that improve the overall financial health of our communities.
Investing in Our Community MSUFCU supports many charitable organizations each year through monetary and inkind donations to drive change and build better, more vibrant communities for all. Whether our employees are volunteering at a cause-related 5K race or planting trees in a local neighborhood, we donate our time and talents to help enrich lives and make our communities places where everyone is proud to live and work. Join us in celebrating the credit union difference and dream BIG at msufcu.org.
Interested in making a move? COME IN FOR A TOUR AND LEAVE AS FAMILY
Interested in senior living? Want to know more about The Marquette? Stop by and learn about the awesome amenities and care that we have here. •
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Come in and let us help you find an answer to all of those questions. 5968 Park Lake Rd., East Lansing, MI 48917
Questions? Call us at 517.339.1532
General Manager Malik Davis 517.648.7526 | Community Sales Manager Katie Guidice 517.614.5126
FEATURE
Under the hood with Kate Kleinschmidt, owner of Jane’s Garage BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY
PHOTOS BY METRO MELIK 517 35
FEATURE
Kate Kleinschmidt at Jane’s Garage
othing is rare or unusual if you were raised doing it. “Growing up, I had some friends who thought it was weird. If I needed my oil changed, they’d say, ‘Oh, just take it down the road,’” said Kate Kleinschmidt. “No. We change the oil in the barn at home. If we need a tie rod, we’d fix it in the barn at home. We didn’t take it someplace to have it done.” That was simply the way it was done when you were the daughter of the owner of Randy’s Service Station in Fowlerville. It was a do-it-yourself work ethic that Kleinschmidt said both of her parents instilled in her — and it was one that has paid off in a career as an independent business owner. Today, Kleinschmidt isn’t known in the area as Randy’s daughter as much as she is as the owner of Jane’s Garage, an automotive service shop at 75 Fowlerville Road in Fowlerville that specializes in everything from oil changes, alignments
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I would encourage anybody to do this for a career — men, women, it doesn’t matter who you are. It’s a good field to get into, especially if you’re passionate about the job.
and air conditioning to suspension, steering and brakes. “My parents were very much work-before-play parents. If my brother and I wanted four-wheelers, my dad would say, ‘Well, you have to pump gas for the summer. We’re not just going to give you something. You have to work for it,’” Kleinschmidt said. “And we were fine with that. That builds structure. If we didn’t have them pushing us, I don’t think either one of us would be as successful as we are.” Kleinschmidt applies that same mindset to her work at Jane’s Garage. The business was initially an expansion of Randy’s Service Station at the corner of Fowlerville and Mason roads called On the Spot Quick Lube and Oil. The original two oil bays and the alignment bay were complemented later with the addition of two mechanic bays. “I was here on and off since 2004, when the building went up,” Kleinschmidt
said. “I was also a hair stylist at the time. I did hair for a living. I stepped away from On the Spot for a while because my kids were super busy, but then my brother had to go on the road trucking, so my dad and brother asked me if I would come back and oversee what was going on here because they didn’t have anyone watching the place. … I ended up working here more than my other job. At that point, they asked me if I just wanted to buy this part of the business. So, I did.” Kleinschmidt became her own boss in 2016, and On the Spot was rechristened as Jane’s Garage. The “Jane” in Jane’s Garage references Kleinschmidt’s middle name, but it’s also a nod to her lineage.
FEATURE “Jane is a family name,” she said. “It’s my mom’s oldest sister’s name. Then it’s my mom’s aunt’s name and was my mom’s great-aunt’s name. I was named after my Aunt Katie Jane, and I am really close with my aunt. So, I named it after her.” There’s no question the automotive repair and maintenance industry is a male-dominated field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, women comprised only 12.1% of the industry in 2022. Yet Kleinschmidt said she’s never felt out of the ordinary in her community; however, she noted part of that is likely because she’s such a familiar local face. “I think people just know me because I’ve been on this corner for so long. We were pumping gas here when we were kids,” she said. “I’ve been here my whole life; people have known me as Randy’s daughter. I think that if I hadn’t grown up on this corner, and I just started the shop on my own, it would not be the same.” Still, Kleinschmidt said that at times she has to work extra diligently to gain
confidence with customers because she’s a woman. “Sometimes there are people who want to talk directly to the mechanic because they don’t think I can answer their questions, so I have to build that trust with those people,” she said. “I think that I have an advantage just because I’m from here, but I don’t think that if you were just some random girl off the street and you put the shop up that you would get the same respect that you would if you were a male.” It’s why Kleinschmidt places such a high priority on honesty at Jane’s Garage. “I feel like our service is really good, but I’m also super honest — maybe to a fault,” she said. “If someone comes for shocks on their car, and we do an inspection and find they don’t really need them, I’m going to tell them that they’d be wasting their money.” It’s a trait Kleinschmidt tries to ingrain in her professional staff as well as those just coming into the field. Jane’s Garage serves as a teaching facility with the Automotive
Training Institute to move apprentices into certification. “I’m all about teaching the skill and all the aspects to get them there. It just builds the community — because even if they don’t stay with me, they have a skill they can take somewhere, which I think is important,” Kleinschmidt said. “I would encourage anybody to do this for a career — men, women, it doesn’t matter who you are,” she added. “It’s a good field to get into, especially if you’re passionate about the job. You can make a good living doing this.”
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lifestyle / GOOD READS
‘AGING OPTIMALLY’ PART 2 TIPS FOR EVALUATING AND TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR STRESS BY DR. CAROL L. MONSON
This is part 2 of a three-part series on the book “Aging Optimally” by local author Dr. Carol L. Monson. Fear is our emotional reaction to perceived threat or danger, causing a change in our metabolism, bodily functions and behavior. Our fears are set off by present or past events, as well as thoughts of future events. Our fears keep us from doing things we want to do or being who we want to be. They can keep us from being successful, happy and loved. Over time, fear decreases our life energy, satisfaction and pleasure, which can cause grief; worry; and wear on our body, mind and spirit. Fears create stress, increase inflammation and negatively affect our immune system. How can we confront our fears? Make a list of your fears. Begin work on your list when you are relaxed and have uninterrupted time. When you find yourself experiencing negative emotions associated with your fears, use this emotional intensity level to rank them from least to most. Note changes in your body. Do you feel tense? Are your neck and shoulders tight? Are you clenching your hands? Is there movement or tension in your legs? Does your stomach feel queasy? Do you feel anxious?
After creating your list, put it down and relax. Exercise, meditate, breathe deeply, etc. Decide on a specific time when you will begin the work to overcome your fears. Begin your work with your least fear and work only with that one. Imagine and relive being in a situation that triggers this fear. Stop your imagining when you become fearful or anxious. Relax yourself again. Then, analyze and separate this fearful experience into smaller parts. What happens first? What happens next? When do you first remember this fear occurring? What happened then? What did you do that made it worse? What could you do to make it better? After you have relaxed, go back and reimagine this experience by changing your response and imagining a better outcome. You may need to repeat and continue practicing this process multiple times before your level of fear decreases. Each time you feel fearful, stop, relax yourself, go back and repeat. When you are successful in practicing, congratulate yourself and decide to let this fear go. Remember: The next time you are in this situation, you can respond differently. When you respond differently to others, they respond differently to you.
Dr. Carol L. Monson is a family physician and psychotherapist. Her book is available on Amazon, and her website is agingoptimally.org.
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lifestyle / RECIPE
ROASTED, GLAZED PUMPKIN WEDGES BY 517 STAFF
We’ve roasted pumpkin seeds and tried our hands at a pumpkin pie or two, but only recently did we attempt to do something with pumpkin that was simple, tasty and a great way to add a little pumpkin spice to our lives: roasted and glazed pumpkin wedges.
WHAT YOU NEED: • 1 small pumpkin, cut into wedges; sugar pumpkins are great, but you can also use any small pumpkin or winter squash • 1 tablespoon of honey • 1 tablespoon of olive oil • Salt and pepper to taste
WHAT TO DO: Mix olive oil and honey in a small bowl. Lay out your pumpkin wedges on a baking sheet with parchment paper and drizzle with the honey/oil mixture. Turn each piece over and evenly coat with the remaining drizzle. Sprinkle with a dash of salt and pepper. Bake at 375 degrees for about 45 minutes, turning occasionally. When the pumpkin is tender and golden, remove from oven and serve.
To spice things up, serve sprinkled with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, cumin and chili powder. You can also drizzle an additional small amount of honey after baking.
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lifestyle / PLAY
t ent a cont more G.COM A 517M
A bewitching month ... WITCHES ON THE TOWN Oct. 21 The sixth annual Witches on the Town event in downtown Mason is coming up. Leave the kids at home and come see these terrifying covens of food trucks and vendors. Registration includes a goodie bag, passport of participating businesses, a map of Mason and local business coupons. Check out lansing.org/event/witches-on-the-town/44043/ for more information.
THIS MONTH’S EVENTS Editor’s note: Please call event venues directly to make sure times and dates haven’t changed.
Jack O’Lanterns Unleashed | Weekends starting Oct. 6 Jack O’ Lanterns Unleashed is back for the third year at the Ingham County Fairgrounds, Take a journey during this family-friendly Halloween spectacle down Jack O’ Lantern Lane with 5,000 hand-carved pumpkins in various themes. Tickets can be found at fair.ingham.org/index_ halloween.php. How-To Halloween | Oct. 7 How-To Halloween is a family-friendly festival that celebrates creativity, imagination and the innovative spirit of the frightfully fun holiday season. The theme for the ninth annual event is the technological marvels of robots. There is trick-or-treating for kids, costume contests and cosplay characters. Come hang out at Impression 5 Science Center for this free event. Visit how-tohalloween.com for details. Lansing Hot Cider Hustle | Oct. 7
Follow our friends at 517living.com for other upcoming events in the region.
Get moving and run the Lansing Hot Cider Hustle half marathon, 5K and 10K. Every finisher receives a cup of hot cider and a caramel apple. Sign up for the run at michiganruns.com/ lansinghotciderhustle. Downtown DeWitt Farmers Market and Patio Dining | Tuesdays through Oct. 17 The Downtown DeWitt Farmers Market is back Tuesdays from 4-7 p.m. Stop by to support the local farmers, then grab a bite and a brew on the Looking Glass Brewing Co. patio until 9 p.m.
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Ghoul’s Night Out | Oct. 13 Come out to shop and drink in downtown Owosso. Check out the specials, limited edition treats and prizes. Visit downtownowosso.org/ events-calendar/ for more information on this event. Beerfest at the Ballpark | Oct. 14 This is an outdoor beer, cider, hard seltzer, mead, spirits and wine festival with live music that is hosted in the heart of downtown Lansing at Jackson Field, home of the Lansing Lugnuts. Attendees will have the opportunity to taste 100-plus craft beers from more than 40 Michigan breweries. For details, visit beerfestattheballpark.com. Lansing Halloween Bar Crawl | Oct. 28 The official Lansing Halloween Bar Crawl is sure to be a fun fright for all involved. The crawl includes food, drinks, trick-or-treating opportunities from bar to bar and a costume contest. For more information and to sign up, visit pubcrawls.com/halloweekend-hangoverbar-crawl-lansing/. ArachnoBROADia! | Oct. 29 Have some eight-legged fun for all ages inspired by the artwork from the Michigan State University Broad Art Museum. Art and arachnids are combined with creepy crafts and a visit to the MSU Bug House. Register on the Broad Art Museum’s website at broadmuseum.msu.edu/ events/20231029-arachnobroadia/.
lifestyle / JACK DAVIS LEGACY NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
A BEACON OF INDEPENDENCE BY DAWN’S EARLY LIGHT PROVIDES HOME CARE BY KYLE DOWLING
As we age, the support we need may increase. Whether it’s helping to get out of bed and going about your day or even something as small as helping with laundry once a week, we’ll all need help at some point. That’s where By Dawn’s Early Light comes in with home caregiver services to help aging generations. “We want to help people stay in their homes as long as that’s possible and safe,” said Dawn Samuels, president of By Dawn’s Early Light. “We work with people and their families to find the level of care that is needed to help people stay in the place they’ve worked their whole lives to be.” Services can include elder care, light housekeeping, dressing, medication reminders, meal planning, or helping community members with a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury. “My love for this kind of work started right out of high school,” said Samuels. “And I stuck with it, moving to everything from private home care to hospice to care homes. Eight years ago,
I began my own services and marching to the beat of my own drum.” Today, By Dawn’s Early Light serves seven counties — Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, Jackson, Shiawassee, Livingston and Ionia — with a goal to move into a new county every year. “While we are pretty well known locally, it’s much more difficult to get the word out in other communities that are in need of our services,” said Samuels. “We want to make sure everyone can get the help they need.” By Dawn’s Early Light also functions as a transportation service for older individuals to get to doctor’s appointments, family functions, church, community events or errands. For more details on By Dawn’s Early Light, contact the business directly through the web at bydawnsearlylighthomecare. com, or connect with your local Office on Aging for more information about receiving vouchers for services.
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Publication Title: 517 Business and Life Publication Number: 20807 Filing Date: 09/15/2023 Issue Frequency: Monthly Number of Issues Published Annually: 10 Annual Subscription Price: $22.00 Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication and Contact Person and Phone Number: 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933, Ingham County; Tiffany Dowling 517-203-3333 8. Mailing Addresses of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher: 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933, Ingham County 9. Mailing Address of Publisher, Editor and Managing Editor: Publisher – Tiffany Dowling, 221 W. Saginaw St. Lansing, MI 48933, Ingham County; Managing Editor – Mary Gajda, 221 W. Saginaw St. Lansing, MI 48933, Ingham County 10. Owner: M3 Group LLC, 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933; Owner: Reseda Group, 337 West Rd, East Lansing, MI 48823 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgages, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages or Other Securities: None 12. Tax Status: Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months 13. Publication Title: 517 Business and Life 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data: 10/01/2023 15. Part A: Extent and Nature of Circulation, Average Number of Copies of Each Issue During Preceding 10 Months: a. Total Number of Copies: 7,014 b. Legitimate Paid and/or Requested Distribution: 1. Outside County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions: 1654 2. In-County Paid/Request Mail Subscriptions: 5250 3. Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales and Other Paid or Requested Distribution Outside USPS: 0 4. Requested Copies Distributed by Other Mail Classes Through the USPS: 0 c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulations: 6,904 d. Non-requested Distribution: 1. Outside County Non-requested Copies: 0 2. In County Non-requested Copies: 0 3. Non-requested Copies Distributed Through the USPS by Other Classes of Mail: 0 4. Non-requested Copies Distributed Outside the Mail: 85 e. Total Non-requested Distribution: 85 f. Total Distribution: 6989 g. Copies Not Distributed: 25 h. Total: 7,014 i. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation: 99.64 Part B. Extent and Nature of Circulation, Number of Copies of Single Issue Nearest to Filing Date: a. Total Number of Copies: 6,908 b. Legitimate Paid and/or Requested Distribution: 1. Outside County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions: 1,685 2. In-County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions: 5,113 3. Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, County Sales and Other Paid or Requested Distribution Outside USPS: 0 4. Requested Copies Distributed by Other Mail Classes Through the USPS by Other Classes of Mail: 0 c. Total paid and/or Requested Circulations: 6,798 d. Non-requested Distribution: 1. Outside County Non-requested Copies: 0 2. In-County Non-requested Copies: 0 3. Non-requested Copies Distributed Through the USPS by Other Classes of Mail: 0 4. Non-requested Copies Distributed Outside the Mail: 85 e. Total Non-requested Copies Distributed Outside the Mail: 85 f. Total Distribution: 6,883 g. Copies not Distributed: 25 h. Total: 6,908 i. Percent Paid and/or Request Circulation: 99.63 16. N/A 17. I certify that 50 percent of all my distributed copies are legitimate requests or paid copies 18. Publication of Statement of Ownership for a Requester Publication is required and will be printed in the October 2023 issue of this publication. 19. I, Devon Kirby, Office Administrator, certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).
WRAP UP
MICHIGAN AUTOMOTIVE FIRSTS Five facts that prove the state is the nation’s pace car BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY
We all know that Michigan put the nation on wheels, but there’s a lot more transportation trivia in the state than just being the place where they build cars. Here’s five fast facts about Michigan automotive firsts that were sourced directly from that most road-weary oracle of knowledge, the Michigan Department of Transportation:
Local Shout-out to Ransom
No, Yellow Doesn’t Mean Speed Up
Put It to the Floor Along 94
That Name Again is Mr. Plow
Pull Over and Stretch Your Legs
Detroit resident David B. Huss set the first automobile transcontinental time record in 1905 — driving from New York City to Portland, Oregon, in a 7-horsepower, Michigan-built, curveddash Oldsmobile. As we are all well aware, Ransom E. Olds started the Olds Motor Vehicle Co. right here in Lansing. Huss’ trek took 44 days and reached toe-curling speeds of a whopping 15 mph.
Although red-and-green traffic lights already existed, the device didn’t give motorists traveling at high speeds enough time to stop when the light transitioned. William Potts, a Detroit police officer, came up with the design that included the yellow light. It was installed at the intersection of Woodward Avenue and Fort Street in Detroit in 1920, and it’s on display in the “Driving America” exhibit at The Henry Ford in Dearborn.
Michigan was the first state in the nation to complete a border-toborder interstate. In 1960, the 205 miles of Interstate 94, running from Detroit on the East Coast to New Buffalo on the West Coast, opened to the public. Another notable fact, I-94’s interchange with the Lodge Freeway in Detroit was the nation’s first full-speed, freeway-tofreeway interchange.
The nation’s first practical highway snowplow was built in 1922 in the city of Munising in the Upper Peninsula — and those folks know snow! According to michiganrvand campgrounds.org, it was designed and built by Edward C. Levy, public works superintendent, and was mounted on runners and consisted of two retractable wooden wings.
The nation’s first roadside park opened in 1919 along U.S. 2 in the Upper Peninsula’s Iron County. (Oddly enough, the nation’s first roadside picnic tables didn’t come along until 1929 — but that was in Michigan too, on U.S. 16 in Ionia.) It’s likely that the opening of the first roadside park was quickly followed by the first motorist stretching his legs who didn’t clean up after his dog.
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