Entrepreneurs of the Year: Mark and Leigh Kraushaar by M3 Group Publications

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Entrepreneurs of the Year: Mark and Leigh Kraushaar INSIDE : SPE CIA L E NTRE P RE N E URI AL AWARD S SE C T I O N

In this issue •

NEW RETAILERS BUILD ON SENSE OF PLACE IN GREATER LANSING

•

BAD ROADS BAD NEWS FOR BUSINESS

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News New Retailers Build on Sense of Place in Greater Lansing.................................................... 6 Chamber Hosts State Senate Economic Development Hearing ........................................ 8 Venture Expands in Lansing Region Thanks to Grow Michigan Funds ........................ 10 Bad Roads Bad News for Business ................................................................................................. 12 Greater Lansing CVB Announce Year-End Data and Award Winners for Community Support ........................................................................... 14

Special Section Past Winners of the Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards .................... 18 20 Years of Celebrating Success ................................................................................... 20

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Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards photos ................................................ 22 New Award Categories Breathe New Life Into Entrepreneurial Awards...................................................................... 24 Q & A: Winning Entrepreneur Gives Insight Into Success .............................. 28 Overzealous License Rules can Deter Entrepreneurs ....................................... 30 C&E Pipeline Services Exceeding Their Goals........................................................ 32 Business Owners More Upbeat About Their Companies................................. 36 Older Entrepreneurs Call Shots After Long Careers.......................................... 38 On Target Living: Building a Legacy of Health and Wellness........................... 44

Entrepreneurs of the Year: Mark and Leigh Kraushaar

Entrepreneur of the Year: Bell Title............................................................................. 46

I N S I D E : S PE C I A L ENT REP R ENEU R IA L AWA RDS S EC T IO N

In this issue •

NEW RETAILERS BUILD ON SENSE OF PLACE IN GREATER LANSING

•

BAD ROADS BAD NEWS FOR BUSINESS

Simplified Tax and Accounting Services: Partnership Pays off........................ 50

Cover photography by Lisa Twenter

Departments

The Greater Lansing Business Monthly (Volume 27, Issue 4)

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

The Greater Lansing Business Monthly is published monthly by M3 Group at 614 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933. Periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Michigan USPO. USPS number 020-807. Subscriptions: Subscriptions are available at $22 per year for postage and handling or $38 for two years. Call (517) 203-0123 or visit www.lansingbusinessnew. com to subscribe.

Man on the Street ................................................................................................................................... 53 He Said, She Said ...................................................................................................................................... 54 Y We Care ................................................................................................................................................... 56 Collectibles ................................................................................................................................................. 58 Real Estate .................................................................................................................................................. 60

Postmaster: Send address changes to The Greater Lansing Business Monthly, 614 Seymour Ave., Lansing, MI 48933. Send additional subscription requests and address changes to The Greater Lansing Business Monthly, Inc., 614 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933. Copyright © 2014 The Greater Lansing Business Monthly, Inc. All rights reserved.

Accounting .................................................................................................................................................. 62

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

Business Calendar.................................................................................................................................... 72

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Financial Advisor....................................................................................................................................... 66 Economic Development ....................................................................................................................... 68 Law at Work ............................................................................................................................................... 70

Notable News............................................................................................................................................. 78

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Entrepreneurs Keep us Moving Forward

Publisher: Tiffany Dowling tiffany@m3group.biz

hat do most entrepreneurs have in common? Well, there are a lot of characteristics that could fit, but I believe that a few areas that bind those I’ve come to respect include: an ability to get people to follow them, a passion for business or industry, the gumption to take a few risks and a willingness to fail. There are certainly many more attributes that could be added to the list, but that small profile helps illustrate the drive in an entrepreneur.

Editor: Emily Caswell emily@m3group.biz Sales Manager: Jennifer Hodges jhodges@m3group.biz Media Assistant: Jill Bailey Account Managers: Katie Brown Manny Garcia Production Director: Kelly Ritter Art Director: Lisa Twenter Graphic Artist: Mike France Web Manager: Skylar Kohagen Event Calendar Manager: Jaime Hardesty

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

Small business significantly impacts Michigan’s – and greater Lansing’s – economy. In fact, small business represents 98 percent of the 806,000 employers in our state. Only 3,000 of those employers have over 500 employees. Of course, the vast majority are sole proprietors navigating the business world solo. Those businesses in between the large and the micro are helping the economy grow. They hire people. They get ideas flowing. They generally help make the world (okay … Lansing) go round. That’s why we need to celebrate the successes out there. Greater Lansing is home to many great companies – some big and some small. At the GLBM, each year for the last 20 years, we’ve identified the best of the best and helped others gain inspiration from their stories through the Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards. This year is no different. Our panel of judges identified a select group of entrepreneurs who are successfully navigating the current business climate and finding a way to succeed. The four individuals/organizations include: Mark and Leigh Kraushaar, owners of Bell Title; Chris Johnson, founder of On Target Living, Elijah White and Crispin Velasquez of C&E Pipeline and Ryan Lowe and Nikali Luke of Simplified Tax and Accounting Services. All of the companies showed growth and a steady path of prosperity ahead for the coming year. Please read their stories and also see how we’ve made changes to the various nomination categories. GLBM aims to be a resource for business owners. That means that we strive to give readers information they can use to do what they do – better. Part of this is to help businesses learn about the companies that are out there as well as giving them an opportunity to connect. In order to support the initiative, we created Connections and Coffee in partnership with the University Club of MSU. The breakfast event will showcase two business organizations or groups with five-minute presentations followed by networking for the rest of the hour. The event is set for Tuesday, April 22 at 8 a.m. Please join us! Be dynamic in all you do,

Tiffany Dowling | Publisher

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NEWS

New Retailers Build on Sense of Place in Greater Lansing BY A NN H. KAMMERER

lthough online shopping has changed the way consumers purchase goods and services, many retailers remain true to the brick and mortar storefront.

P H OTO PROV I D E D

Lately, that appears evident in greater Lansing. Regional trend watchers have their eye on more first-in-market and high-end retailers coming to the metro area. And that influx, some experts say, represents change driven by factors aside from population growth. “If you look back at population growth as a whole, we are growing, but we’re growing slowly,” says John Melcher, Associate Director of the Center for Community and Economic Development at Michigan State University. “So, we’re not necessarily an expanding market like you might see down south.” What’s more than likely attracting retailers to Lansing, Melcher says, are positive impressions of growth and innovation. Those factors, he says, include job creation, economic development and business growth, and the income and education levels of tri-county residents. “We’re being looked at as a favorable market,” says Melcher. “Retailers coming here are getting strong numbers in their marketing reports within the age and income brackets that are important to their business.” C ONNE C TI NG THE D OT S

Melcher is quick to make a link between incoming retail and the innovative culture that helps create a sense of place in greater Lansing.

Eastwood is experiencing growth in 2014, welcoming a 6,000-square foot Apple Store and more.

“I think what’s largely happening in this market are new and different combinations of things being put together,” says Melcher. “For instance, while you might have seen five or six grocery stores in a location decades ago, now you’re seeing just one with a similar but different product line.” Melcher describes how certain types of development can make areas attractive both for residents and businesses looking for vibrant or profitable places to locate. Mixed-used developments, restaurants and entertainment venues along urban transit routes are among the examples. “When you step back and look at communities in terms of retail, you may not necessarily be seeing a lot in terms of job creation and wealth, but you’re seeing the creation of a specific place where people want to be,” says Melcher. “And people might want to be close to areas where you have concentrations of restaurants, businesses and other amenities.” That concept of “placemaking,” Melcher says, can help explain the apparent trends

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in retail, as well as the types of retail coming to greater Lansing. Recent findings from the Lansing Area Economic Partnership (LEAP) further connect the dots. LEAP’s 2013 Year End Report shows a cumulative 2,885 jobs created in the region since 2012, as well as a total private investment of more than $466 million in 2013. Per capita income grew several thousand dollars, reaching $35,459 in 2013, with nearly 62 percent of wages resulting from employment in knowledge industries. And with 36 percent of Ingham County residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, there’s no doubt why The Atlantic Cities publication named Lansing the 16th brainiest city in America. “We’ve been on the national stage getting attention for a number of years now,” says Bob Trezise, President and CEO of LEAP. “We’ve had an eight or nine year development record throughout our region. When you look at our list of jobs we’ve created, the huge majority are high salary and require top level skills and education.”

NEWS

“WE’VE BEEN ON THE NATIONAL STAGE GETTING ATTENTION FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS NOW.”

“We want to represent the community that we’re in,” says Phelps, mentioning that developers and architects are selected to bring a local design to each store. “We want this to be East Lansing’s Whole Foods Market.”

For the retail industry, Trezise says, that translates to disposable income. It also telegraphs greater Lansing as a hot market — one that attracts not simply more and new retailers, but a different kind that the region hasn’t seen before.

Similar to Whole Foods, other retailers consider proximity to a Big Ten university and State Capitol as deciding factors when locating to the Eastwood Towne Center. The lifestyle center in Lansing Township is among three centers in Michigan managed by Retail Properties of America International, and has recently attracted a 6,000-square foot Apple Store to join the mix of first-class and first-in-market retailers, restaurants and entertainment venues.

Whole Foods Market, the Swedish-based H&M and Apple are among Lansing newcomers. Others such as Torrid, Sephora USA, Shoe Carnival and Gymboree are new or changing spaces at the Meridian Mall, Lansing Mall and Eastwood Towne Center.

“What we’re seeing at Eastwood are national or regional chains that are growing and starting to hit similar markets to Lansing,” says Greg Goldberg, vice president and leasing director of RPAI. “Some of those retailers like having a growth pattern next to major

- BOB TREZISE, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF LEAP

universities. In areas where there has been a large construction boom, you’re seeing those retailers going into existing vacant spaces.” Goldberg comments that greater Lansing’s mix of college educated, higher-end wage earners have found Eastwood’s miniurban center appealing for shopping, dining and entertainment. “Apparel, soft goods or service stores, it’s a complete mix,” says Goldberg. “They all build off each other and help create that unique experience for people coming here for the day.” Ann Kammerer is a freelance writer living in East Lansing. She has written extensively about business people, educators, artists and every day people doing good things in greater Lansing for a couple decades.

“Obviously, we’ve broken the ice with retailers like Whole Foods,” says Trezise. “And I think once the ice breaks, the cluster mechanism takes hold pretty fast. Other retailers in that tier will say: ‘Hey, they’re coming here. Why aren’t we?’” C OMMU NI TY S U S TE N AN CE

Whole Foods confirms that particular demographics are huge factors when the company scouts locations.

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“We look at the availability of things like the cost of real estate, education and the community’s interest in organic foods,” says Allison Phelps, Public Relations Specialist for Whole Foods Market. “East Lansing has that combination and looked like a location for us to be of service with a new store.” The Austin-based food retailer plans a 2015 opening for a 22,750-square foot supermarket on the 35,000-square foot lot previously occupied by a bike shop and trailer park. The Meridian Township store will be the seventh Whole Foods in Michigan and among the nine new stores slated to open in the Midwest.

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Chamber Hosts State Senate Economic Development Hearing BY E M ILY CAS WEL L

ey area business leaders believe that investment is needed in urban areas to attract and retain talent.

“Hosting the Senate Economic Development Committee at the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce gave leaders in our region an opportunity to familiarize lawmakers with the many exciting developments occurring in our region,” said Tim Daman, President and CEO of the LRCC. “The forum also provided our community an opportunity to become more familiar with state programs and how we can work together to move greater Lansing and the entire state of Michigan forward.” Kicking off the presentation was Michael Finney, President of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), who reported on recent MEDC successes and findings. Highlights include the addition of 220,000 jobs in the state, with more to come, key partnerships with organizations like Michigan Works, the Workforce Development Agency and more. Despite the successes there is more to be done. “We have to invest in these urban communities,” said Finney. Adding that one of the biggest things MEDC hears from those they work with is the necessity to attract and retain talent. Young people, said Finney, are demanding a great place to live. 8

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That message was delivered during a State Senate Economic Development Committee Hearing held on Wednesday, Feb. 26. The hearing, which is part of a series of hearings being held around the state by the Senate Economic Development Committee, took place at the offices of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) in downtown Lansing.

The Senate Economic Development Committee Hearing took place at the offices of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce in downtown Lansing.

“It was good to hear Michael Finney stress the importance of investing in our urban areas,” said Daman. “We share the view with MEDC and others that we must make those investments to attract and retain the talent we need to drive our economy forward in the 21st century.” Additional business leaders including Bob Trezise, President of LEAP, Inc., Jim Sopha, Chief Operating Officer at Jackson National Life Insurance Company, Pat Gillespie, President and CEO of Gillespie Group and Daman also presented to the committee. “We wanted state lawmakers to be more fully aware of economic growth and regional collaboration that is taking place in the greater Lansing region,” said Daman of his presentation. “We also wanted to communicate how much we value the work that MEDC has done over the years and the critical importance that state incentives play in making important projects a reality.” As one of the state leaders at the hearing, Rep. Andy Schor (D-Lansing) said it is

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important for state-wide leaders to hear what is happening locally. “(The) Senate Economic Development Committee hearing was a great opportunity for some of Lansing’s development forces (including the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, LEAP, Jackson National Life Insurance and the Gillespie Group) to showcase a few projects that are making the entire greater Lansing region competitive with other areas in our state,” said Schor. “All of the day’s presenters had valuable, interesting things to share about dynamic new development endeavors happening right now in our area, and holding the hearing outside of its routine venue — bringing it right into the community — was a great way to showcase Lansing’s offerings. I’m proud of the exciting projects underway in our community and look forward to more opportunities to share them in the future,” added Schor.

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Venture Expands in Lansing Region Thanks to Grow Michigan Funds BY KRIS TINE RICHMON D

rand Rapids-based BarFly Ventures expanded its highly successful restaurant business into East Lansing thanks to an investment by Grow Michigan, LLC. HopCat East Lansing, BarFly’s latest brewpub, opened last August and offers clientele an abundant selection of craft beer.

Sellers owns six bars and restaurants and has been in business for 6 ½ years. In addition to HopCat East Lansing, BarFly owns the flagship HopCat Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Brewing Company, Stella’s Lounge and McFadden’s Restaurant & Saloon, all located in Grand Rapids. The newest brewpub, HopCat Detroit, will open this fall. “Grow Michigan (Grow MI) came from a concept developed by Russ Youngdahl Jr. (founding and managing member of NorthStar Capital) in discussions with the MEDC. The question was, what we, the MEDC, can do to help employment and investment growth in Michigan,” said David Treadwell, Co-founder and Executive Chairman of Grow MI. Grow MI was formed in late 2012 and initiated business in early 2013. Its mission is to provide attractively priced growth capital in the form of subordinated/mezzanine debt to Michigan’s small business community. Grow MI is a unique collaboration of the Michigan banking community, Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the Michigan Strategic Fund.

PH OTO P ROV I D E D

“These funds paid for half of my construction costs for HopCat in East Lansing. I wouldn’t have been able to open and create 105 jobs without the Grow Michigan money,” said Mark Sellers, owner of BarFly Ventures.

HopCat East Lansing has created 105 jobs since opening in August of 2013.

With $35.7 million of committed capital from leading members of Michigan’s banking community and the Michigan Strategic Fund, Grow MI mezzanine loans, made in conjunction with senior loans, range from $500,000 to $3 million in the form of three to five year subordinated debt. “Mercantile Bank knew I needed the additional financing for the East Lansing project, but they only felt comfortable loaning part of the money so they referred us to Grow MI. With the money from the bank and Grow MI, it covered 60 percent of the total project cost, and the rest we put in from our own equity,” said Sellers. BarFly was just one of 12 promising small businesses to receive loans totaling $20.1 million from Grow MI in 2013. The total

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capital investment associated with these loans was $141.0 million. “Mezzanine financing for small (under $3 million) loans tends to be very expensive, if even available. Grow Michigan financing is priced similar to larger mezzanine loans, at a much more favorable rate than would typically be available,” said Treadwell. Through these 12 loans, Grow MI has invested in small businesses that currently employ more than 1,000 Michigan workers, with growth commitments of an additional 250 jobs across nine Michigan counties. Sellers decided to expand into East Lansing, saying “it felt like home to us because we know Lansing so well.” Sellers, and his director of operations, Garry Boyd, both

NEWS

“HopCat East Lansing is doing even better than our Grand Rapids location. Since opening, sales have been 40 percent higher than expected,” said Sellers. “There was a real need for this concept in East Lansing.” Since starting the business in 2008, BarFly is now a $20 million company. Sellers attributes much of his success to his employees. In total, Sellers employees 430 people across his six locations. “My employees have made $18 million in wages and tips since we first started six years ago,” said Sellers. “I’ve learned that a business that is growing is all about the people. I focus a lot on hiring and retaining really good people and making sure the quality of life and their work environment is high.”

successfully loan our committed capital to create jobs, create investment and fulfill the objectives of our investors.”

stories of changed lives, fiscal success, philanthropic support and more by creating engaging messages that grab customers’ attention and cause them to act.

Kristine Richmond is the Public Relations Specialist at M3 Group. She specializes in helping clients tell their

attended Michigan State University and are lifelong Spartan fans.

Sellers makes it a habit to listen to his employees concerns and suggestions. “You want employees to feel loyal. Everyone that works for me for four years gets an all-expenses-paid trip. This year we are taking 18 employees to Portland, Oregon,” added Sellers. Although Sellers said his company may expand further in the Capital region, no firm decisions have been made at this time. For Grow MI, it’s all about expanding jobs and investment in Michigan. According to Treadwell, in 2014 Grow MI will “continue to move forward, to

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Bad Roads Bad News for Business BY A NN COOL

fter the record-breaking winter weather, spring is a welcome sight. But while we leave the frosty temperatures and massive piles of snow behind, winter leaves an unwelcome reminder of its icy reign — roads full of potholes. For many of us, this is an inconvenience. For businesses that rely on the roads to transport people and/or products, however, poor roads can be bad for their bottom line. Business owners and community leaders alike support funding to fix the problem. Lawmakers recently approved a short term solution. Many see the need for a long term one, too. Mercy Ambulance Services is a familyowned private full-service emergency transport company. Their licensed paramedics and EMTs also provide transportation on Amb-U-Cab to those who are wheelchair bound and need to be transported to in-state or out-of-state hospitals and other facilities. The company has a fleet of 11 ambulances and six cabs. “Our biggest concern is with patient comfort,” said Dennis G. Palmer, President and CEO, who’s been with Mercy Ambulance for 30 years. “This has been a bad winter,” he said, worse than other ones in his memory. He notes that although the main roads have been in fairly good condition, some are “spotty” and the drivers divert to different routes when possible.

spending bill to fund road maintenance such as pothole repair. The bill sets aside $215 million from a surplus collected from tax revenues. Governor Snyder, however, has said that one time funding is not enough. He proposed a more permanent solution at his State of the State address in 2013. He asked to raise fuel taxes and registration fees to cover an additional $1.2 billion per year on roads and bridges. This year, the Michigan Department of Transportation estimates that that the amount has jumped to $1.3 billion because roads keep getting worse, especially after this harsh winter. “WE CANNOT AFFORD TO DO NOTHING. THE LONGER WE WAIT, THE WORSE THE ROADS WILL GET AND THE FEWER RESOURCES WE’LL HAVE.” - NATHAN TRIPLETT, EAST LANSING MAYOR “The longer we wait, the worse the roads get and the more it costs to repair them,” said Jeff Cranson, Director of Communications, Michigan Department of Transportation. “If we got $1.3 billion, we could make huge strides in fixing our infrastructure.”

As we thaw, and get into warmer weather, Palmer predicts the roads will be three times worse, and he hopes that legislators agree on a plan that gets and keeps the roads in good repair.

MDOT address this issue in a “Transportation Reality Check” information sheet they created in early March and posted on their website:

Last month, Michigan lawmakers approved a one-time supplemental

“For many years MDOT, county road commissions, and city public works

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departments have done the best they could with dwindling construction and maintenance funds and the higher costs of materials, keeping roads driveable and bridges safe. “Now more extensive work is inevitable. Roads and bridges are falling apart at a rapidly increasing rate, and the cost to repair them keeps rising.” East Lansing Mayor Nathan Triplett can attest to the deterioration of local roads and the need for additional funding. “We have been struggling to find the resources to fix the roads in East Lansing,” he said. While he agrees with the legislation action for a “one-time infusion of resources,” Triplett, who also serves on the Board of Trustees of the Michigan Municipal League, said that we need a more permanent and comprehensive fix. “We cannot afford to do nothing. The longer we wait, the worse the roads will get and the fewer resources we’ll have,” he said. “To fail to do so is hurting business, our job providers in the community.” Michael W. Rogers, Vice President Communications for the Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM) agrees that fixing the roads is good for business. “Michigan has had many bright signs of a successful economic recovery over the last few years and a well-maintained infrastructure is a key component to continuing that recovery,” he said. “We are at a point in Michigan where our

NEWS

economic engine is revving up and we are able to discuss how much we can spend on our infrastructure, not just how much to cut from it as in years past.” Rich Studley, President & CEO of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce said that the quality of the roads is among the worst in the nation, yet Michigan spends among the least to fix them. He agrees that Michigan needs to budget more for regular maintenance and repair for the good of the economy. The road conditions have an impact on the three primary business sectors in the state — manufacturing, agriculture and travel and tourism. “We don’t want businesses going out of business, closing their offices and relocating to other states,” he said. The Michigan Chamber supports increasing state and local funding by at least $1.6 billion per year raised primarily

“MICHIGAN HAS HAD MANY BRIGHT SIGNS OF A SUCCESSFUL ECONOMIC RECOVERY OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS AND A WELLMAINTAINED INFRASTRUCTURE IS A KEY COMPONENT TO CONTINUING THAT RECOVERY.” - MICHAEL ROGERS OF SBAM

by user fees — such as changing the gas tax to a percentage of the wholesale price of fuel — and raising vehicle registration fees. He hopes businesses and the state legislature can work together to solve the issue once and for all.

Now that Michigan legislators have passed the most recent bill on supplemental funding, it appears that more legislative work will be done to find a more permanent solution. “In the short term, the Michigan Legislature (resolved) how much to spend on the roads for basic road repairs and weather-related incidents,” Rogers said. “In the long term, however, the issue is still complex. SBAM hopes that both the governor and the Legislature will be efficient in this process. Prior to any increase in taxes or fees, strict measures for spending accountability must be in place to ensure that these tax dollars are spent competitively and efficiently.” Ann Cool, MPS, is a freelance writer who lives in Mason with her husband Bob.

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Greater Lansing CVB Announce Year-End Data and Award Winners for Community Support

he Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau (GLCVB) held its annual meeting on Thursday, March 6 and announced both good news for the local economy and recognized numerous individuals for helping to foster meetings and events within the Capital Region.

Additionally, the greater Lansing area outpaced the State of Michigan (57.5 percent) in hotel occupancy for the first time since 2011 and posted its highest occupancy in more than a decade. Altogether, group business generated by the GLCVB and Greater Lansing Sports Authority (GLSA) in 2013, generated more than $15 million in local economic impact. “We’re pleased to announce we’ve had a successful year, our efforts have helped grow visitation to the region and positively affect the economy as well,” said Jack Schripsema, President and CEO of the GLCVB. “We’re also happy to announce THE GREATER LANSING AREA OUTPACED THE STATE OF MICHIGAN (57.5 PERCENT) IN HOTEL OCCUPANCY FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 2011 AND POSTED ITS HIGHEST OCCUPANCY IN MORE THAN A DECADE. 14

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The GLCVB announced Mid-Michigan saw a 3.4 percent increase in 2013 area hotel occupancy, posting a rate of 57.9 percent, up from 55.8 percent in 2012, according to Smith Travel Research data.

Jack Schripsema, President of the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau, pictured with Stephanie and Joe Shall of Shuto Con.

the inaugural class of Greater Lansing Community Champions and awards for the GLSA Partner and Volunteer of the Year.” The Community Champion program was created to recognize local residents for helping to secure, or advocate for, group business in the Greater Lansing area. Those recognized as 2014 Community Champions are; Jason Lafay with DeWitt Community Schools, Stephanie and Joe Shall with Shuto Con, Lloyd Bingman, Glen Sanders and Ernie Cabule with Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Delta Lambda Chapter, Bil Moore and Sarah Slamer with the National Institute for Trauma & Loss in Children and lastly, Len Sawisch, Gail Dummer and Amy Andrews with the 2013 World Dwarf Games. The GLSA was proud to recognize The Lansing Skating Club as Partner of the Year

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and Richard (Dick) Miles with the Capital City River Run as Volunteer of the Year. For more information about the Greater Lansing Community Champions program, visit www.lansing.org or call (517) 4870077. For more information about the Greater Lansing Sports Authority, visit www.lansingsports.org. - EM I LY CA S W ELL

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Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards Special Section Past Winners of the Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards ..................................................................................................................................18 20 Years of Celebrating Success ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 20 Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards photos .............................................................................................................................................................22 New Award Categories Breathe New Life Into Entrepreneurial Awards...............................................................................................................24 Q & A: Winning Entrepreneur Gives Insight Into Success ............................................................................................................................................28 Overzealous License Rules can Deter Entrepreneurs ....................................................................................................................................................30 C&E Pipeline Services Exceeding Their Goals.....................................................................................................................................................................32 Business Owners More Upbeat About Their Companies..............................................................................................................................................36 Older Entrepreneurs Call Shots After Long Careers.......................................................................................................................................................38 On Target Living: Building a Legacy of Health and Wellness........................................................................................................................................44 Entrepreneur of the Year: Bell Title.........................................................................................................................................................................................46 Simplified Tax and Accounting Services: Partnership Pays off.....................................................................................................................................50

CAPITOL NATIONAL BANK Salutes and Congratulates The 2014 Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Award Winners

Matt Johnson On Target Living

Member FDIC and our community.

Elijah White & Crispin Velasquez C&E Pipeline

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

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Ryan Lowe & Nikali Luke Simplified Tax

Mark & Leigh Kraushaar Bell Title

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Helping Businesses Perform Seven Days a Week!

Take your business to the next level! U-Club membership is open to all. Contact us to learn more. (517) 353-5111 â&#x20AC;˘ www.universityclubofmsu.org

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3435 Forest Rd. Lansing, MI 48910

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Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Award Winners N AME

COMPA N Y

AWA R D R E CE I V ED

2013 Thomas Salisbury

Reliable Aftermarket Parts, Inc.

Sales & Distribution

Lance Thompson

Baseline Data Services, LLC

Information Technology

Stephen Russell

A/C Electrical Contractors, Inc

Construction

Rochelle Rizzi

Rizzi Designs, LLC

Marketing

Peter W. Kramer

Kramer Management Group, Inc.

Emerging

Tiffany Klein

La Fille Gallery

On the Rise

Jack Davis

Loomis, Ewert, Parsley, Davis & Gotting

Law

Gary Seelye

Seelye Group LTD

Service

Claudia Deschaine

Dart Foundation

Socially Responsible Organization

D.L. Kesler

D.L. Construction & Sons

Master Entrepreneur

Amy Trahey

Great Lakes Engineering Group, LLC

Engineering

Bo Noles

Capital Imaging

Printing

Lorri Rishar Jandron and Angela Witwer

Edge Partnerships

Professionional Service

Dr. John Wycoff

Wycoff Wellness Center

Healthcare

Chad Jordan

Cravings Gourmet Popcorn

Emerging

Justin Caine

Good Fruit Video

Socially Responsible

2012

Barbara Fails Raftshol Chad Paalman

Socially Responsible NuWave Technology Partners

Technology

Jason Schreiber

AriaLink

Communications

Louis Eyde & George Eyde

The Eyde Company

Master Entrepreneur

Steve Trecha

Integrated Strategies

Logistics

Dr. Terry Matthews & Catherine Matthews

Lansing Urgent Care

Healthcare

Lisa Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

Publicom

Marketing Communications

Debbie Barnett

Tomie Raines, Inc

Real Estate

Dr. Martin Valley

Valley Dental Spa

Professional Services

Ryan Doom & Kevin Southworth

Web Ascender

Information Technology

Rebecca Jeon

SanSu Sushi & Cocktails

Restaurant

Jim Brumbach &Heidi Brumbach

Event Depot

Emerging

Andy Kotarba

Dewpoint

Information Systems

Mark Hooper

Andrews Hooper & Pavlik

Founders Advocate

Mark Sprinkel

Showroom Shine, Inc

Automotive Services

Steven Curran

Harvest Creative Services

Creative Services

Mike Franco & Chris Goodman

Pure Green Lawn and Tree Professionals

Landscpape Services

Mitch Tomlinson

Peckham Inc

Socially Responsible

Patrick Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien

Faith Magazine, Catholic Diocese of Lansing

Publishing

Daniel Warmels

Warmels Comstock, PLLC

Professional services

Patrick Heller

Liberty Coin Service

Retail

Joe Ford & Adam Henige

Netvantage Marketing

Emerging

2011

2010

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

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A DDRES S

W E BSITE

3615 E. Grand River Williamston 48895

www.raparts.com

325 E. Grand River Ave., East Lansing 48823

www.baseline-data.com

7837 Lanac St., Lansing 48933

DND

1141 Pine St., Lansing 48906

www.rizzidesigns.com

1701 Nottingham Road, Lansing 48911

www.kramermg.com

336 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing 48933

www.lafillegallery.com

124 W. Allegan St., Ste 700 Lansing 48933

www.loomislaw.com

912 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing 48912

www.sglyes.com

500 Hogsback Road, Mason 48854

www.dartfoundation.org

16001 Old US 27 Lansing 48906

DND

521 Seymour St., Lansing 48933

www.glengineering.com

2521 E. Michigan Ave., 48912

www.capital-imaging.com

117 E. Kalamazoo Lansing 48933

www.edgepartnerships.com

1226 W. Michigan Ave., East Lansing 48823

www.wycoffwellness.com

1220 Turner St., Lansing 48906

www.cravingspopcorn.com

1131 S. Washington Ave., Lansing 48910

www.goodfruitvideo.com

552 W. Circle Drive, Rm. 112, East Lansing 48824

www.landpolicy.msu.edu

6539 Westland Way Ste 19 Lansing 48917

www.nuwavepartners.com

230 N. Washington Sq Lansing 48933

www.arialink.com

4660 S. Hagadorn Road, East lansing 48823

www.eyde.com

5000 March Road, Ste 1 Okemos 48864

www.sourcing.com

505 N. Clippert Lansing 48912

www.lansingurgentcare.com

333 Albert Ave., Ste 400 East Lansing 48823

www.pulicom.com

1400 Abbot Road, Ste 200 East Lansing 48823

www.tomieraines.com

2192 Commons Parkway Okemos 48864

www.valleydentalspa.com

4151 Okemos Road, Ste B Okemos 48864

www.webascender.com

4750 Hagadorn Road, East lansing 48823

www.sansu-sushi.com

16800 S. Chandler Road, Ste 104 48823

www.eventdepotonline.com

1921 E. Miller Road, Ste B Lansing 48911

www.dewpoint.com

4295 Okemos Road, Okemos 48864

www.ahpplc.com

248 W. Grand River East Lansing 48823

www.showroomshine.com

1011 N. Washington Ave., Lansing 48906

www.harvestcreativeservices.com

16350 Felton Road, Lansing 48906

www.puregreenlawn.com

3510 Capital City Blvd. 48906

www.peckham.org

1500 E. Saginaw St., Lansing 48906

www.dioceseoflansing.org

3505 Coolidge Road, East Lansing 48823

www.wccpas.com

300 Frandor Ave., Lansing 48912

www.libertycoinservice.com

2940 E. Lake Lansing Road, East Lansing 48823

www.netvantagemarketing.com

Passionate about transforming and investing in our community.

Congratulations to the 2014 Entrepreneurial Award winners

GillespieGroup_GLBMEntrepreneurialAd.indd 1

3/20/14 9:38 AM

Sending our warm congratulations to this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winners!

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20 Years of Celebrating Success BY V IRGINIA BERNERO

PHOTO B Y L I S A TW E NTE R

isk. Reward. Two words that every entrepreneur knows well. On Thursday, March 6, the Greater Lansing Business Monthly hosted the 20th annual Entrepreneurial Awards.

The evening started with a networking cocktail hour and gave way to a dinner in the Heritage Room in the University Club of MSU. Community members, business leaders, entrepreneurs and supporters were among those who attended this historic ceremony. In the midst of the tradition, a feeling of change was in the air. Although she co-hosted the event last year, this was Tiffany Dowling’s first time co-hosting the event as publisher of the magazine. “If you know me, then you know I have to put my own spin on things,” Dowling said to the crowd during the awards. She and co-host April Clobes, Executive Vice President and COO at MSU Federal Credit Union went on to discuss the alterations of this year’s event. Dowling started the change with the judging process. Every year, the judges are presented with a binder full of business profiles, narratives and financial information and are asked to choose a winner in each industry category. This year, the same binder was presented with this year’s 13 nominees, but instead with five broader categories. Emerging Entrepreneur, Socially Responsible Entrepreneur, Entrepreneurial Spirit, Entrepreneur of the Year and Greater Lansing Business of the Year were among the judges’ choices. “I wanted to increase the visibility of the awards by honoring just a few select winners each year,” explains Dowling. The elimination of some categories that have existed in the past was intended to cast a wider net, seeking honorees that truly exemplified the qualities of each award — no matter what field or industry they were in. Judges Mark Hooper of Andrews Hooper Pavlik, Paul Crockett of WILX TV 10, Bruce Dunn of Maner Costerisan, Sara Dolan of MSU Federal Credit Union, Scott Purtill of Plante Moran, Chris Nugent of Summit Community Bank and Jennifer Morris of PNC Bank “IT TAKES MANY BUSINESSES OF ALL SHAPES AND SIZES TO CREATE A ROBUST ECONOMY AND THAT WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT OUR ENTREPRENEURS.”

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were up to the task. After nominations were collected, the judges spent time independently and collectively reviewing the material submitted by the nominees. During a special judges’ lunch, the final decisions were made. This year, the Greater Lansing Business Monthly was proud to honor the following: Entrepreneur of the Year – Mark and Leigh Kraushaar, Bell Title Company Entrepreneurial Spirit – Ryan Lowe and Nikali Luke, Simplified Tax and Accounting Services Emerging Entrepreneur – Crispin Velasquez, C&E Pipeline Socially Responsible Entrepreneur – Chris Johnson, On Target Living

The community needs risk takers and go-getters. Many recent studies have shown that the vitality and growth of an area can be directly linked to the amount of local business startups. “It takes many businesses of all shapes and sizes to create a robust economy,” co-host April Clobes said, “and that would not be possible without our entrepreneurs.” Society prospers from new businesses that drive the economy and provide good jobs. Society would suffer without new businesses to solve local problems and create a culture of innovation. Even existing businesses gain from them with new customers, clients, suppliers and new competition. Entrepreneurs are in high demand. As the night came to a close, many past honorees offered their congratulations to the newly admitted GLBM entrepreneurial winners. Pat Gillespie, Jack Davis, Tico Duckett and Mark MacDaniels were among those who came to support their fellow entrepreneurs. It is with the support of the community that these honorees will continue their success. Keep an eye out at www.lansingbusinessnews.com for info on the 2015 event!

- APRIL CLOBES 20

Judges review entries during a special judges’ lunch.

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2014 Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards BY LISA TWENTER

Tiffany Dowling and Ryan Lowe of Simplified Tax

Co-host April Clobes of MSU Federal Credit Union

Chris Hocquard, David Flees, Craig Bull and Bill Coderre

Manny Garcia, Todd Lake, of Northwood University and Jana Lake

Congratulations to this year’s winners!

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Tom Conway, Rich Howard, Bob Selig, Phyllis Riley and Susie Hengesbach

Kelly Jacobs and Teri Bernero

Guests enjoyed a networking cocktail hour before the awards ceremony

Bill Coderre presents the 2014 Volunteer of the Year Award to David Flees

GIVING HEALTHCARE A RUN FOR ITS MONEY

The University Club of MSU hosted this year’s event

Congratulations to this year’s winners!

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(517) 882-2441 · www.simplified-tax.com 1120 Keystone Ave. Lansing, MI 48911

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New Award Categories Breathe New Life Into Entrepreneurial Awards BY E M ILY CAS WEL L

hange. It’s something that entrepreneurs are familiar with. Without it, what entrepreneur would be successful? They really couldn’t even exist, right?

It seems only appropriate then, especially after 20 years, that the Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards experienced some change this year. After careful thought and consideration, GLBM Publisher Tiffany Dowling, along with key members of the judging panel and GLBM editorial board, determined that the best way to categorize entrepreneurs is in the broad sense. For years, winners of the Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards have won in industry categories, such as Law, Marketing, Construction and so on. For the 2014 event, Dowling opted to do away with those specific categories for a few reasons. First, narrower industry categories often times lead to a large number of winners each year – sometimes that number hitting close to 12 or 13. P HOTO B Y LI S A TW E N TE R

With that many winners, it was felt that it led to a potential dilution of the significance of the award and produced an obviously longer award program. We heard from past guests that since the event takes place on a weeknight, a shorter event would be preferred. In the end, however, the most important reason to limit categories is because fewer rubric areas increases the prestige of the award. Dowling challenged the judges this year to look at the entries in a different way and give away an award in as many as five categories. Of course, to avoid forcing a category winner, Dowling allowed the judges to leave a category void of a winner if necessary. The new categories, which will be used moving forward include: Emerging Entrepreneur; Socially Responsible Entrepreneur; Entrepreneurial Spirit; Entrepreneur of the Year and Greater Lansing Business of the Year.

that businesses make the world around them a better place and this award recognizes those companies who do just that. For this category, the judges have the ability to evaluate each company for either philanthropic activities or mission.

The EME RG I NG E N T RE P RE N E U R AWAR D is given to a company that has not only been able to show success in recent years, but also shows great potential for growth. This category is aimed at highlighting a small company that is showing a pattern of growth and aspiration that will take them to the next level. A company must be in business at least three years to be considered for this award.

The winner of the E N TRE PRE N E U RIA L S PIR IT AWARD may not look like your typical entrepreneur, but still has operated their business (whether they own the operation or not) with the spirit and risk-taking tenacity that so many of us admire in traditional entrepreneurs. The winner or winners are individuals who think outside the box. They are people who are always looking for ways to achieve their goals.

The SOC I A L LY R E S P O N SI B L E E N T RE P RE N E U R has existed in previous years, but this year the judges looked at not only the philanthropic activities of the companies nominated, but how the mission of a company could fulfill social duties. It is important 24

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The E N TRE PRE N E U R O F TH E YE A R AWARD is intended to set the bar for aspiring and emerging entrepreneurs. It is the hope of those involved with the Entrepreneurial Awards that all area

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We Have You Covered Your time is valuable. Why spend it going to different locations to manage your saving and checking accounts, loans, and credit cards? At MSU Federal Credit Union we offer the products and financial services that make your life possible. Whether you’re saving for retirement or your child’s education, or are searching for your next vehicle or dream home — we’re here to help. Not an MSU employee? Not a problem. Contact us today to see how MSUFCU can make a difference in your life. Branch Locations East Lansing • 3777 West Rd. 4825 E. Mt. Hope Rd. 523 E. Grand River Ave. MSU Union, 49 Abbot Rd., Rm. #108 Lansing • 104 S. Washington Sq. 653 Migaldi Ln. 200 E. Jolly Rd. Sparrow Professional Bldg., Ste. #300 Haslett • 16861 Marsh Rd. Okemos • 1775 Central Park Dr. Charlotte • 180 High St. Auburn Hills • 3265 Five Points Dr.

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Co n g ratulations to this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winners!

entrepreneurs attain the level of financial success and notoriety that the recipient of this award has achieved. This award signifies true greatness in running the business, selecting key personnel, a strategy for continued success and ultimately vision for the future. The newest category that will be represented for 2015 is the GREATER LANSING BUSINESS OF THE YEAR. This is an award that will be given to a business that has not only had a fantastic year, financially and publically, but has been a well-known and trusted organization in the community for years. The organization that achieves this level of accomplishment will have a long history of giving back, a respected leadership team, a commitment to community growth and its economic development efforts and is considered an organization that employees are proud to represent.

Of course, none of these awards would be possible without the support and involvement from the business 124 W. Allegan St., Ste. 700 Lansing, Michigan 48933 517-482-2400

2400 Lake Lansing Rd., Ste. E Lansing, Michigan 48912 517-485-0400

www.loomislaw.com

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

community. Please keep an eye out in print and online at www.lansingbusinessnews.com for information on the 2015 event, including the nomination process for next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s awards.

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Stay Fit With University Club of MSU

hether you’re a seasoned professional or a budding entrepreneur, taking care of yourself is as important as taking care of your business. If you are looking to stay healthy, have more energy and reduce stress, University Club Fitness Manager & certified personal trainer Steve O’Rourke recommends exercise. “A combination of weight training and cardio is best for overall fitness,” says O’Rourke. “But any type of exercise can help release endorphins and reduce stress — whether it’s a workout at the gym, walking around the block, or riding bikes with the kids.” If you’re looking for more relaxing exercise, O’Rourke suggests Tai Chi and yoga, which improve your physical and emotional health. “Both activities focus on breathing, balance and flexibility. You’ll get physically stronger too, and learn how to relax and be in the moment.” Another great way to de-stress is through stretching with a foam roller, using body weight and a high density foam cylinder to stretch out the body. The roller is tucked under the body in various positions to massage and stretch specific areas. “Foam rollers are a fantastic way to reduce muscle soreness and tension by stretching,” says O’Rourke. “This inexpensive piece of equipment is easy to use and provides great results.” For today’s busy workers, finding a form of exercise that fits them best is the key to success. “Find something you enjoy and stick with it,” says O’Rourke. “If you make exercise a lifestyle choice instead of an occasional event, you’ll get the most out of it. You’ll sleep better, be more productive and have much more energy.” Ashley Matson, University Club Spa Coordinator & certified massage therapist, suggests massage as another means of maintaining optimal health and well-being.

as orthopedic massage, a deep tissue manipulation best for specific problems such as shoulder, neck and back pain, migraines, tendonitis or tight muscles. Hot stone, hot oil and advanced therapy massages are other available options. “Whatever type of massage is used, the results are similar,” says Matson. “Your muscles are relaxed, your heart rate is lower, and your range of motion, blood circulation and immune system are all increased. Plus, you get better posture, healthier skin and your stress just melts away.” Matson explains that while you’ll definitely get increased results with ongoing sessions, there’s no magic number needed. “I tell clients to simply listen to their body,” she says. “If you don’t have a lot of injuries or stress, one massage every six to eight weeks might be sufficient. If your life is stressful, once a month might be better for you.” Whether you discover the joys of exercise or the gentle relaxation found through massage, both O’Rourke and Matson encourage you to find a way to de-stress to keep your body and mind healthy and strong.

The University Club of MSU offers its members many ways to relax and de-stress, from casually elegant dining, world-class fitness equipment, classes and trainers, and pampering spa services, to swimming, tennis, golf, social

“Business professionals frequently suffer from headaches, shoulder pain, and kinked necks as a result of sitting in front of a computer all day,” says Matson. “They get amazing results from even just one massage session.”

events, family activities, children’s summer camps and more.

The University Club Spa offers both traditional Swedish massage, employing a light touch and long strokes to promote relaxation, stimulate circulation and relieve tension, as well

p.m. Call 517-353-5111 or visit www.universityclubofmsu.

Memberships in this 85-year-old award-winning private facility are available to all. Come learn more at the U-Club’s spring open house on Thursday, April 24 from 5:30-7:30 org for more details.

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Q & A: Winning Entrepreneur Gives Insight Into Success BY CHUNIQ INPOWER

he definition of entrepreneurship varies from person to person, experience to experience. A Forbes contributor recently coined it simply as “social problem solving” to longer definitions which all seem to embrace the entrepreneurial spirit of innovation, creativity and risk-taking which are all a part of the process of becoming a successful entrepreneur. As this issue of the Greater Lansing Business Monthly surrounds “Entrepreneurial Winners,” I’ve taken a moment to interview Douglas J CEO Scott Weaver to share his thoughts on the theme and to provide insights from his entrepreneurial journey and inspire others to continue their path of entrepreneurship and business success. As CEO of Douglas J, Weaver wears many hats from education, curriculum, marketing and operations and beyond, it’s a delicate balancing strategy necessary in leading the growing brand to winning.

SW: Perseverance and commitment to the greater goal. The ability to remain focused and on target through both good times and challenging. CI: In addition to Douglas J, what are your other business ventures? S W: My very first business was washing the employees and guests cars from Douglas J while in high school in my parents’ driveway. I turned that into a lawn care business to help pay for my college education. I also started a company with some co-workers and friends called SMMJ to provide student housing for the students of the Douglas J institutes. CI: What are three qualities new or aspiring entrepreneurs can develop to set a good foundation for “winning?” S W: Have a goal and through perseverance and dedication being

able to stick to that plan. CI: How can seasoned entrepreneurs stay relevant or sharp into the changing demographic and psychographic of today’s consumers?

Here’s more from our conversation: C HUN I Q I NPOW E R : What is your personal definition of, “entrepreneurial winning?” SC OTT W E AV E R : The ability to create opportunities, not only for myself but for the teams that I work with and the communities in which we do it. C I: As an entrepreneurial winner, what has been your most contributing factor to your success in your business ventures?

S W: I love to read, different business books and motivational books to find inspiration. I enjoy talking to our staff and students. I am fortunate to work with a young and progressive group. CI: Although many speak of winning, losing can also happen while

working toward success. How can one turn business losses into profitable wins? S W: We make mistakes and have challenges every day, but not

looking at them as a loss but rather an opportunity in which to learn

Congratulations to this year’s winners! We moved! Come see our new location.

Phone: (517) 889-5546 Fax: (517) 889-5682

Congratulations to this year’s winners! 28

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1778 Holloway Drive, Suite B Holt, Michigan 48842

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CI: How important is it for entrepreneurs to build a strong team? S W: It’s not even optional it’s a necessity! The team must be one

PH OTO B Y L I S A TW E NTE R

that has trust and belief and shares the overall vision and mission of your organization. True entrepreneurs never work alone. There are internal and external teams, vendors, suppliers and in our case, guests and students who make Douglas J what it is, so it’s imperative that all of those components are happy and satisfied. Douglas J is a regional company that runs spas, professional salons and high-end cosmetology institutes in Ann Arbor, East Lansing, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Okemos, Rochester Hills and Royal Oak, MI; as well as in Chicago, IL and Knoxville, TN. Learn more about Douglas J online at www.DouglasJ.com. Editor’s note: This piece ran in the May 2013 Issue. It contains valuable information on entrepreneurship, in turn we found value in publishing it again. Scott Weaver pictured at the press conference for the 2014 Douglas J Million Dollar Veterans Scholarship

from. Everyday entrepreneurs take risks to build their business. Some may work, others may not, but to continually learn and grow makes each move a step in the right direction.

Zaneta Chuniq Inpower is the Digital Communications Coordinator at Douglas J Companies.

2013 GreenLight Competition Winners

MSUFCU Supports Second Annual GreenLight Competition With the goal of bringing economic growth, collaboration, and success to the mid-Michigan area, MSU Federal Credit Union invests in the development of entrepreneurs and local businesses through sponsorship of the second annual GreenLight Business Model Competition, held this year on March 26, 2014. The competition, created by Spartan Innovations and MSUFCU, brings together start-up ventures located in mid-Michigan that have been in existence for one year or less, to pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges for the chance to win prizes totaling

$50,000. The grand prize of $25,000, sponsored by MSUFCU, will be awarded to the best overall business model. MSUFCU is committed to helping entrepreneurs and businesses in the tri-county area discover and achieve their business dreams through personalized business lending products and services. Check out our line of business products and services today by visiting www.msufcu.org, or stopping by any of our local branches to speak with a financial services representative.

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Overzealous License Rules can Deter Entrepreneurs BY J OYCE M. ROS ENB E RG

— Many people dream of opening their own business. But some would-be entrepreneurs are finding that state licensing requirements are so arduous that it would take years and thousands of dollars before they ever would be able to hang out a shingle.

NE W YORK (AP)

Licenses are intended to set standards in order to protect customers. But many state licensing laws can be erratic, illogical and burdensome — and stop some people from launching a small business, says the Institute for Justice, a public interest law firm. A recent IJ study looked at 102 lower- and moderateincome occupations that require licenses, including those in which practitioners can start their own businesses. Among them: manicurists, barbers, massage therapists and people who have construction skills like painting and masonry. The IJ found a big problem: Some licenses force people to get training for skills they’ll never need. And that training could be prohibitively long and expensive. For example, in three states and Washington, D.C., you can’t open an interior design firm unless you’re licensed as a designer. And that requires an average of six years of schooling and apprenticeship. Jestina Clayton wanted to start a hair braiding business in her home near Salt Lake City. She checked with the state to be sure that she didn’t need a license. She was told several times that she didn’t, that braiding wasn’t one of the services covered by a cosmetology license. So Clayton went ahead and in 2009, placed an ad online about her business. She got an email threatening to report her to the state for working without a license. It turned out that the law had changed, and she could not braid hair without a license. Clayton explored cosmetology training, and found that no school nearby taught braiding. She would need 2,000 hours of training in other skills she didn’t need, simply to have a legal braiding business. “It would be a waste of time and money,” Clayton says. Clayton and the IJ have filed suit in federal court in Utah to overturn the requirement. It might seem like there’s no reason for an occupation like braiding to have such heavy license requirements. But lawyers and academics who have studied licensing laws say the hurdle is one way to limit or eliminate competition for those already in business. Often, the license, especially one that includes a wide variety of seemingly unrelated skills or services, is sought by a trade or industry group. A license can “create barriers to entry and creates profits for those who are politically well connected,” says Steven Lanza, an 30

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economist and editor of The Connecticut Economy, a publication of the University of Connecticut. When licenses are challenged, that’s when it can become clear that the intent is to limit competition, not protect the public, says Dick Carpenter, a research director at the IJ. “Those in an industry are asking for protection so they can enjoy an economic advantage,” he says. The monks at Saint Joseph Abbey in St. Benedict, La., had always made simple pine coffins for themselves, but found that the public was interested in buying them. Abbot Justin Brown says that in 2007, the abbey started Saint Joseph’s Woodworks, but even before the business made its first sale, “we got a cease-and-desist letter from the State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors.” Under state law, in order for the monks to sell coffins, they had to go through training as funeral directors, including the practice of embalming bodies.

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No matter that they weren’t handling bodies in any way.

LICENSES ARE INTENDED TO SET

against an industry group with much greater financial means.

STANDARDS IN ORDER TO PROTECT The abbey tried to reach a compromise with the board, and also appealed to the state Legislature. But “there’s a strong lobby in the funeral industry in Louisiana,” Brown says. “They worked to put the law in and they didn’t want the law to be amended.”

CUSTOMERS. BUT MANY STATE LICENSING LAWS CAN BE ERRATIC, ILLOGICAL AND BURDENSOME — AND STOP SOME PEOPLE FROM LAUNCHING A SMALL BUSINESS.

“You really feel, when you’re facing something like that, rather defenseless,” Brown says.

The IJ’s and other studies have found that licensing can be a heavy burden to a state’s small business growth. According to a 2007 study by the Reason Foundation, a think tank, California licensed 177 occupations while Missouri licensed 41.

In addition to state requirements, a business owner or a worker may also have to obtain licenses from a city, town or village. A 2005 study done for the Small Business Administration found that in Kentucky, “each local jurisdiction in which a company did business required separate registration, using different forms and asking for somewhat different information.”

- INSTITUTE FOR JUSTICE

Ultimately, the abbey sued in federal court and won last year. Scott Bullock, an attorney with the IJ, says the court ruled that “there was no rational basis for requiring persons who only want to sell caskets to become licensed funeral directors.” As the abbey’s case shows, changing a licensing law is difficult. “It accumulates — all these sorts of rules and regulations and you don’t revisit them because no one’s out there saying, we should get rid of these things,” says Lanza, the Connecticut economist. And a lengthy court fight pits a would-be small business owner

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C&E Pipeline Services Exceeding Their Goals BY A NN COOL

hen father and son team Elijah White and Crispin Velasquez started their company — C & E Pipeline Services in 2007, they had big goals.

And in five short years, they’ve achieved and exceeded their goals. Recognizing the success of their company, the Greater Lansing Business Monthly magazine recently awarded them the 2014 Entrepreneurial Award for Emerging Entrepreneur. “It’s amazing for a guy like me with my background as a migrant worker to now own a successful company,” Velasquez said in his acceptance speech. C&E Pipeline Services is a family-owned and operated pipeline right-of-way (ROW) maintenance company that, according to their website “aims to set ourselves apart from the pack in ROW clearing, maintenance, restoration and much more.”

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Together White and Velasquez own and operate the multimillion dollar enterprise. Their reputation has spread and their services are sought out by companies throughout many Midwestern states and beyond. From Texas to North Dakota, they serve the lower 48 states, providing right-of-way clearing, construction and related services. In accepting the award, White said, “As business owners as entrepreneurs big and small, we’re the ones that are keeping the city and state going.” In a follow up interview with the magazine, White said he was surprised and “very honored” to have received the award stating that “it’s an affirmation of our thriving and growing company.” For years Velasquez worked on the crew of a pipeline services company. In 2007, the owner was ready to sell it, and offered it to Velasquez, who he recognized as his best worker. Having come from humble beginnings, today Velasquez is the President of C&E Pipeline Services. White, who has a background in business management, is the general manager and serves as COO, CFO and much more. They know they couldn’t have done it alone. In his acceptance speech, Velasquez recognized his entire team and thanked them for their hard work. His team includes Rick Bianchi, Herbey Garza, Steve Sikorski, Rich Schmidt, James Lawson and Brad Leap.

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Elijah White and Crispin Velasquez

“When we started out, we had four guys and one truck doing cleanup for transmission companies in the Midwest,” White said. “We only offered site restoration and clean up services.” Today, they’ve grown into a multi-state specialty contractor serving the energy industry and offering many services from ROW clearing to vegetation management and site prep access and restoration. This year, they have added a new service — providing pipeline maintenance and repair services to new and existing clients. It takes a hardworking team to meet their high standards for customer service and project management. “We manage every project thoroughly, front-to-back, to ensure every job is complete before we move out — 100 percent is a good number for time and effort, 110 percent is even better,” according to their website.

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Accounting Audit Business Consulting Entrepreneurial and Family Business Fraud Detection and Prevention IT Consulting Political Campaign Finance Reporting Retirement Plan Administration Retirement Planning Tax Planning and Preparation

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C&E is also committed to taking care of the environment, diligently following all federal, state and local regulations that protect it. They replace topsoil, mulch, re-grade roads, remove all debris and restore and stabilize the area encompassing their work site. They keep endangered species in mind and make sure to protect the health of the ecosystems in which they work and are careful not to contribute to the spread of invasive species like insects and weeds. They are also dedicated to worker safety. They follow strict safety practices — ensuring the protection of their workers and their clients. In keeping with this expectation, they provide their staff members with regular training programs led by certified instructors. From First Aid and CPR to climbing safety, chainsaw safety and safe vehicle operation, each employee is trained to follow strict safety practices and maintain a hazard-free environment. Safety personnel also conduct ongoing safety monitoring. Neither Velasquez nor White take their success for granted. They give back to the community. As a minority contractor, C&E contributes to minority organizations like Latin Americans for Social and Economic Development (LASED). The company also uses Michigan products, talent and sub-contractors wherever possible.

“YOU DISCOVER HOW TO SET AND KEEP CERTAIN BOUNDARIES AND YOU DEVELOP MUTUAL RESPECT FOR ONE ANOTHER AND THE UNIQUE SKILLS YOU BRING TO YOUR JOB.” - ELIJAH WHITE

they’ve learned how to balance their father and son relationship with their work relationship. “The father and son relationship comes first and foremost,” White said. “We’ve also learned how to interact with each other in our roles in the business. You discover how to set and keep certain boundaries and you develop mutual respect for one another and the unique skills you bring to your job.” Ann Cool, MPS, is a freelance writer who lives in Mason with her husband Bob.

The father and son team have come a long way in a short amount of time. Not only have they learned to run a successful business, but

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CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS YEAR’S WINNERS!

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Business Owners More Upbeat About Their Companies

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NEW YORK (AP) — Small business owners are getting more optimistic about their companies, according to two surveys released last spring. Improving company finances helped lift owners optimism in a survey conducted by Wells Fargo & Co. and Gallup. The Wells Fargo/Gallup Small Business Index rose 7 points to 16 from 9 in January and from minus-11 in November. The index is still down from 23 in April 2012.

A separate survey by the Kauffman Foundation and LegalZoom found that 84 percent of entrepreneurs — owners of very young companies — are confident about their companies’ profits in the next year. That's up 1 percentage point from the fourth quarter of 2012.

Owners reported their cash flow was improving — 48 percent said their cash flow was very good or somewhat good during the previous 12 months, up from 41 percent in January. That's also the best reading on cash flow since the first quarter of 2009. Fifty-three percent of owners expect cash flow to be good over the next 12 months.

While entrepreneurs in the survey are feeling good about their own prospects, their faith in the US economy is weakening. Thirty-nine percent said they expect the economy to improve over the next 12 months, down from 44 percent in the fourth quarter. That's making them pull back on hiring plans — 32 percent said they're planning to hire in the next year, down from 37 percent.

The improvement also likely reflects an easing of owners' anxiety after it became clear last January that the nation wasn't going to go over what was called “the fiscal cliff.”

Hear-Hear! Congratulations to the 2014 GLBM Entrepreneurial Award Recipients

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What’s so special about the number 4? There are 4 quarters in an NBA or NFL game 4 is the only number in English that is equal to the number of letters in its name

The Beatles were also known as the fab 4 There are 4 Greater Lansing Business Monthly’s entrepreneurial winners this year

Maner Costerisan has 4 Officers on their Board of Directors Maner Costerisan’s Board of Directors plays an integral role in developing the firm’s future vision and strategic direction. The officers work to help grow and develop the firm’s presence in the Lansing business community as well as the greater mid-Michigan region. Together with the help of the Board, the firm strives to continue to offer a balance of both the depth and expertise needed to provide exceptional service to our clients and maintaining the warm, personal environment of a local, neighborhood firm. At Maner Costerisan, the numbers speak for themselves. Congratulations to the Greater Lansing Business Monthly’s entrepreneurial award recipients, including the awards for Entrepreneur of the Year, Entrepreneurial Spirit, Emerging Entrepreneur and Socially Responsible Entrepreneur.

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Older Entrepreneurs Call Shots After Long Careers BY J OYCE M. ROS ENB E RG

— Calling the shots isn’t always all it’s cracked up to be. But for people above 50, it’s become a more popular choice.

NE W YORK (AP)

Tony Uzzi knows all about that. After 30 years in traditional jobs, at age 52, he accepted a buyout from a pharmaceutical company and went into business for himself. Now, instead of having a fairly predictable schedule as a pharmaceutical salesman, work can interrupt just about anything — even dinners out. On one occasion, Uzzi was sitting in a restaurant with his wife and their bottle of wine was being uncorked. The next minute, he was dashing off to make sure an elderly client of his Nurse Next Door senior care franchise was OK. “It’s 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” Uzzi says. “It’s a challenge.” For most Americans, exiting the rat race to start their own business is a passing thought. And then, as people get older, building a pension or a 401(k) plan with an employer match is too comfortable to let go. During the Great Recession and its aftermath, however, the number

of people over 50 who started their own companies grew. Often it was because of the stiff job market. Sometimes family or personal circumstances necessitated a change to something more flexible. Almost always, running a business after decades of working for someone else, is turning out to be an adjustment. Uzzi’s Nurse Next Door franchise is the second business he started after taking the buyout in 2010. Uzzi first launched an executive coaching business that drew on his experience as a manager. But he was bored and not making the money he wanted. He began looking for a franchise and settled on Nurse Next Door because of his background in health care. Interruptions aren’t the only challenge he encounters. Running the franchise comes with a myriad of duties: Drumming up sales and hiring among them. “The constant drive to get clients, the constant sales calls. It’s finding good caregivers,” says, Uzzi who runs the franchise in Orange County, Calif. He is continually looking for new contacts — local attorneys

Congratulations to this year’s winners!

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and churches, for example — who can refer clients to him. He has 15 clients and is hoping for more. Many people over 50 are making the same adjustments as Uzzi. Research by the Kauffman Foundation, which studies trends in entrepreneurship, shows that more people ages 55 to 64 turned to business ownership during and after the Great Recession. The foundation’s index of entrepreneurial activity among people in that age group rose from 2007 to 2009 and logged a scant decline in 2010. Some older entrepreneurs keep working in the industry where they’ve spent their entire careers. That was a big confidence booster for Lori Ames, who started her public relations company, The PR Freelancer, in 2010. “Being 53 and having enough work and life experience made me go into this in a smart way,” says Ames, who launched her business after her 22-year-old son was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. She decided that running her own company would give her the flexibility to care for her son and allow her to work near her Babylon, N.Y. home.

HAPPY

She wasn’t worried about getting clients after having done book publicity and other public relations in Manhattan for more than 20 years. What was daunting was the prospect of becoming an employer for the first time. Ames’ business grew so much that nine months after she started the company she was able to hire the first of her two staffers. That was great news, but the responsibility that comes with being responsible for someone else’s salary was stressful. “That was more nerve wracking than starting a business,” she says. A lot of older entrepreneurs turn to franchises. They appeal to them because they can start making money sooner than they would by building a company from the ground up. Another benefit: franchises come with a ready-made business and marketing plan — and often a well-known name like Subway— the popular sandwich shops— or Lawn Doctor lawn-care businesses. Uzzi, the Nurse Next Door franchisee spent $100,000 to buy and set up his franchise, a far cry he says from what it would take to establish a new business. “I didn’t have $20 million to dump into establishing a brand,” Uzzi says. The Nurse Next Door company notes that it is attracting older franchisees. In the last six to nine months, the average age of new Nurse Next Door franchisees is 56, up from 45. CEO John DeHart

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says the company is getting more inquiries from older prospective franchisees than in the past.

business. His goal is to help pay for college for his two children. He’s also concerned about the job market.

When Mark Whitworth lost his job two years ago at the age of 50, he didn’t plan to become a business owner. But the job market for accountants was dicey and looked like it would stay that way.

“I have a friend who’s worked for a company for 30 years and just got a layoff notice,” he says. “I’m doing this as a safety net and as a financial security blanket.”

So Whitworth opened a carpet and upholstery cleaning franchise last September. He works six days a week and isn’t turning a profit yet, but he’s enjoying the autonomy that comes with running a company.

Ryan works on the business before and after his regular job. He’s in the store on weekends. During the week, it’s staffed by two parttime workers.

“It really does feel good to be the one to make the decisions and deciding the direction your business goes in,” says Whitworth, who owns a Neighborhood Chem-Dry franchise in Dallas.’ He’s optimistic the business will start making money as he gets more customers.

Owning a company for the first time has a learning curve. Ryan is dealing with payroll, insurance and other aspects of running a business. The process of opening the store required a lot of paperwork. “I bet I’ve gone through 300 pieces of paper just setting things up,” he says.

“You have to be patient and build up a reputation,” he says.

But the work that goes into running his own business is worth it, he says. “I’ve got that fire in me,” Ryan says. “This is something I always wanted to do.”

Starting a company while still working for someone else is another route. William Ryan has a job as a salesman for a consumer products company in the Boston area. But last month, at the age of 52, he also opened a franchise — a Lapels dry cleaning

Congratulations to this year’s winners!

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{Going places.} Congratulations to the 2014 Entrepreneurial Award winners. Your accomplishments and efforts have a positive impact on our community.

Contact: Douglas Rober 517.336.7545 douglas.rober@plantemoran.com plantemoran.com

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On Target Living: Building a Legacy of Health and Wellness BY KRIS TINE RICHMON D

assion and hard work have led to success for On Target Living founder Chris Johnson.

Chris was recently named the winner of the 2014 Socially Responsible Entrepreneur Award by the Greater Lansing Business Monthly. Judges felt On Target Living not only fit the criteria of participating in philanthropic activities, but also exemplifies how a company’s overall mission can fulfill social duties — to make the world around us a better place.

When Chris heard he won the award, he was thrilled yet humbled. “In my arena it’s not really looked at as a business. By winning this award, people are acknowledging that we are a growing and thriving business,” said Chris. “This just proves that people can chase their passion and still make a living.” On Target Living is in the health and wellness business. The company strives to help its clients achieve a balanced life with increased energy and vitality by blending intelligent nutrition, quality exercise and restorative rest and recovery. Chris’ passion for health and wellness stems from his early childhood. “I grew up eating processed food which was prevalent in the 60s and 70s. I had horribly bad skin, so when I started in sports, I started eating better, building healthier habits and found that I wanted to share them with others,” he said.

Chris Johnson; (right) Matt Johnson accepted the award for his father at the event

Chris began his career in 1980 after graduating from Western Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in business and a minor in economics. At that time, Chris didn’t really know if he wanted to go into the business arena. Over the next seven years, he worked 60 plus hours a week delivering Butternut Bread and Frito Lay chips, adding twins to his family and continuing his education.

In 2006, after 25 years in the industry, with more than 17,000 one-on-one personal training sessions under his belt, Chris, who was also a published author and wellknown speaker, decided to start his highly successful company, On Target Living.

Johnson initially considered a career in sports medicine, but his “game changer” occurred during a conversation with a Michigan State University Professor who told him “you are a prevention guy so help people get and stay healthy!” That advice steered him to get his master’s degree in exercise physiology in 1989.

On Target Living is now a team of four full-time staff and six coaches who all share Chris’ vision and passion. They sell products and services to corporations, executive management, associations, groups and individuals. Services include: speaking, leadership training, employee wellness, health and fitness coaching,

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P H OTO P ROV ID ED

Matt Johnson, Chris’s son and right hand man, accepted the award for him. “He works with some of the top leaders in the world from a corporate standpoint, so it’s a joy to see my father receiving some recognition locally,” said Matt.

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[ON TARGET LIVING] STRIVES TO HELP ITS CLIENTS ACHIEVE A BALANCED LIFE WITH INCREASED ENERGY AND VITALITY BY BLENDING INTELLIGENT NUTRITION, QUALITY EXERCISE AND RESTORATIVE REST AND RECOVERY.

performance training and retreats. They also offer educational and consumable products. Matt joined his father at On Target Living in 2011 and is currently the director of business development. Matt primarily spends his time running the daily business, yet he still manages to follow in his father’s footsteps by speaking about 25 times a year. “It’s contagious to have a passion for health and wellness when your father is out there doing it,” said Matt. “What is unique is I have a different spin on his approach — he is dominant in the baby boomer demographic and I want the younger demographic to be healthier. The No. 1 thing young people can do is invest in themselves, to set them up for long-term success.”

On Target Living has grown throughout the years, but what remains is their commitment to helping make “America healthy one person at a time.” Chris’ goal today is to focus more on helping Michigan companies perform better. “We want to help Michigan companies improve performance and lower health care costs, especially since Michigan is ranked fifth in the country for obesity,” said Chris. “When you feel better and have better energy, you’ll have better engagement at work, thus lowering health care costs. The bedrock of performance is your energy and health.” When describing his father’s success, Matt said it well. “The company is now more about On Target Living than Chris Johnson. He is building a legacy, a program that will last a lot longer than any one person.”

Kristine Richmond is the Public Relations Specialist at M3 Group. She specializes in helping clients tell their stories of changed lives, fiscal success, philanthropic support and more by creating engaging messages that grab customers’ attention and cause them to act.

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Entrepreneur of the Year: Bell Title BY A NN M. K AMMERE R

P H OTO B Y LI S A TW E N TE R

ark Kraushaar started out solo in the title insurance business. When he bought Bell Title Company in 1993 from founder and Lansing attorney William Bell, the company had one downtown office on North Washington Avenue. Now, 21 years later, Mark and business partner/wife Leigh Kraushaar oversee 21 Bell Title branches across Michigan from a corporate office in Okemos. Bell Title continues to expand, with operations under development in nine new markets. Because of Bell Title’s phenomenal growth through ingenuity and community engagement, the Greater Lansing Business Monthly named Bell Title the 2014 recipient of the Entrepreneur of the Year. “We consider it a great honor,” says Mark of Mark and Leigh Kraushaar shared part of their story as well as what it takes to be an entrepreneur in today’s economy. receiving an award that goes to companies that set themselves apart from the competition. “When you look back over the 20 or so years that “I love that we work together and have a great partnership,” says the award has been given, it’s a honor to be included.” Leigh. “It’s wonderful to be able to work with your best friend.” Leigh agrees. “It inspires us to keep moving forward,” she says. “And to continue to contribute to the Greater Lansing community.” NATU R A L PROGR E SS I O N S

Mark moved to the Lansing area from Standish in 1984. Leigh made the move from Ferndale in 2000 shortly after she and Mark met. Both were driven to own and operate their own business. Bell Title provided the perfect venue. “It’s always been a dream of mine to have my own business,” says Mark. “Our goal has been to expand beyond this area and to grow the company. Together, we’ve been able to do that.” Mark says he came naturally to the business. His father was a title insurance professional and so was his uncle. Leigh, too, had worked for a title insurance underwriter as a claims counsel after graduating from the Detroit College of Law. Their connection was instantaneous. Shortly after they married, Leigh joined Bell Title in 2001 as president and counsel. It wasn’t long before they had put together a unique business model to attract top talent and expand to other markets. 46

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Within a few years of working together, Mark and Leigh developed a branch office platform that replicated the successful systems and practices used in their Lansing office. The platform, they say, drove significant economic benefit to branch managers through efficiencies and economies of scale they hadn’t seen under traditional industry models. The Kraushaars embarked on their expansion in 2006, right before the economy slid into the deepest recession in decades. Bell Title continued to advance while similar companies retreated, finding opportunities amidst the market’s chaos and contraction. “We survived in a challenging economy by being completely unafraid to change and evolve,” says Mark. “We knew we couldn’t necessarily hold on to traditional ways of doing business that were no longer effective.” O PE N TO CH A N GE

Bell Title currently employs 15 people in the Okemos corporate office. Statewide, about 60 people work in the 21 branch offices, performing thousands of transactions a year across the commercial and residential real estate markets.

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Congratulations!

To all of the 2014 Entrepreneurial winners It was an honor to participate in this great community event. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winners exemplify extraordinary devotion to our community and recognize the importance of being local. They herald the true spirit of small business and we celebrate each one of you. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Chris Nugent, Summit Community Bank Senior Vice President and Chief Lending Officer

Borrow local. Bank local. Be local.

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While Mark admits that title insurance products and settlement services are relatively uniform across the industry, he says that Bell Title differentiates itself in the way products and services are delivered. He says Bell Title can deliver high-end boutique services by allowing individual branch managers to customize nearly every aspect of the product and service based on the unique needs of the customer.

“WE’VE BOTH BEEN OPEN TO CHANGE AND REINVENTING THE WAYS WE DO BUSINESS.” - LEIGH KRAUSHAAR

“We’ve both been open to change and reinventing the ways we do business,” says Leigh. “We’re constantly reaching out to new markets and non-traditional customers. That’s our big difference.”

“While Lansing is a city, it has the chemistry of a small town,” says Mark. “So many of us know one another through business and see each other socially. I think there’s a value in that.”

Mark and Leigh have also taken a different approach to their charitable outreach. Through “Bell Gives Back,” the company has shifted from giving client holiday gifts to redirecting resources to local charitable causes such as Ele’s Place, the YMCA and the Greater Lansing Food Bank. The Kraushaars also actively participate in a half dozen community organizations including the Rotary and Zonta Clubs, and have served on the boards of the Greater Lansing Association of Realtors and the Lansing Metropolitan YMCA.

Leigh concurs, adding that the success of their title company is based on the places and people they know.

When not immersed in work, Mark and Leigh enjoy their family of three children, occasional travel and the strong circle of friends developed through living and doing business in greater Lansing.

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“This area is just a fabulous place to start a family and work,” says Leigh. “I would say that the success of Bell Title isn’t just a reflection of us but our entire staff.” Ann Kammerer is a freelance writer living in East Lansing. She has written extensively about business people, educators, artists and every day people doing good things in greater Lansing for a couple decades.

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Simplified Tax and Accounting Services: Partnership Pays off BY A NN COOL

Winning the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award at the 20th Annual Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards was just icing on the cake for the pair. The Entrepreneurial Spirit Award recognizes business owners whose hard work and dedication have created a successful business and are inspirational to others in the business community. As Tiffany Dowling, GLBM Publisher stated when she presented the award, “This goes to a company that so many of us admire — individuals who really think outside of the box. They are business owners who are always looking for ways to achieve their goals. “Tonight’s winners have taken something that was good, made it their own and turned it into something that is better,” she said. “Under their leadership, they expanded from two locations to seven. They take exceptional care of their customers as well as their employees.” In accepting the award, Lowe and Luke expressed their gratitude and surprise to the judges. “We didn’t expect this. We are very proud to have received it,” Luke said. He thanked his wife and the Lansing community for their support. “I also want to thank my business partner,” Luke said. “It would have been impossible for one of us to grow and expand this business without the help of the other.” He stated that they complement each other. “What he likes to do, I don’t like to do and vice versa.” The two CPAs met in Chicago when they were working for Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC). Lowe was hired by PWC after graduating from Michigan State University in 2000. He’d worked at Simplified while attending college when the firm was owned by Judith Stegman. Simplified has been a part of the Lansing area since 1945 when Charles Hosbein first operated the business out of his home in south Lansing. Before leaving Simplified, Lowe said off handedly to Stegman, “If you ever want to sell the business, just let me know.” A year later, Luke joined PWC after he graduated from Western Michigan University. Lowe and Luke worked together in the personal financial services group. “We worked well together and became fast friends,” Luke said. 50

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PHOTO B Y LI S A TW E N TE R

“I

was an honor just to be nominated,” said Nikali Luke, co-owner along with Ryan Lowe, of Simplified Tax and Accounting Services.

Ryan Lowe and Nikali Luke

While visiting East Lansing in 2003, Lowe’s former boss at Simplified contacted him and said that she was ready to sell the company and asked if he was still interested in buying it. He took the leap, and by January 1, 2004, he was the proud owner of Simplified Tax Services. Lowe had big plans. He wanted to update the various processes and technology, making them more current and professional. But he’d need some help. So, he turned to his friend from PWC and convinced him to help him run the company. By the fall of 2004, Luke and his wife Nora had moved to Michigan and the two partners set out to update and expand the firm. When they took over, they had two offices — one in Owosso and one in Williamston. Some of their customers were farm owners.

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To this day, they have retained most of their original clients. “A national firm normally has a client turnover of over 30 percent,” they explained in their application. “Our firm has a turnover of less than 15 percent.” Simplified has also increased its tax practice from preparing 2,200 returns in 2004 to more than 8,000 last year. They are not just a tax service company any longer. Today, Simplified has expanded its client base, office locations and financial services to fit the needs of businesses and individuals year round. Their business services include monthly accounting and bookkeeping services (such as QuickBooks support, payroll processing, back office outsourcing), and tax return preparation and planning (such as income and payroll tax return processing, tax planning and succession planning). Simplified also consults with new businesses. They support business startups, sole proprietorships, limited partnerships, and corporations, and help them select accounting software and find staffing solutions and insurance needs.

Simplified Tax & Accounting Services now has branch offices in Williamston, DeWitt, Charlotte, Delta Township, Eaton Rapids, Owosso and North Lansing. Their business is still growing. They are expanding their office in DeWitt and have moved to a larger location in Lansing. The partners hope to open a new office in St. Johns in the next tax season. They have their sights on other locations as well. They’d like “to continue to open offices in the area and eventually branch out of Mid-Michigan,” according to their award application. “We feel we can provide a great service to any client,” they wrote. Given their growing business, it is clear that their clients feel the same way, too. “Lansing has been good to us, and we really appreciate it,” Lowe said in accepting the 2014 Entrepreneurial Spirit Award. “Thank you to the entire community who has embraced us.”

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

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Thanks To our wonderful sponsors for supporTing local enTrepreneurship!

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see you next year! www.lansingbusinessnews.com

MAN ON THE STREET

M AN on the STR E ET What quality do you admire most about entrepreneurs? C OMP ILED BY K YL E DO W L I N G

“I really like their innovative thinking.”

Betti Trice

“Starting and growing business to help benefit the community.”

Jerry Smith

“Creativity and coming up with the next big idea.”

Matt Branding

“That they have the drive for business and take risks.”

Neda Pari

“Having a sense of initiative and desire to create one’s own path.”

Tim Michlang

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“

HE SAID, SHE SAID

“

He Said She Said

Each month The Greater Lansing Business Monthly invites authors from two views — one conservative, one liberal — to share their thoughts on a rotating topic. This month’s topic: What is your opinion on the recent changes to the state’s personal property tax?

pay personal property taxes on that same property for as long as it has possession. The elimination of the personal property tax ends this unfair double taxation that discouraged small businesses from providing quality jobs in their community and, worst case, forced some businesses to shut their doors for good. THE BIPARTISAN REFORMS MADE TO PPT WILL BENEFIT OUR COMMUNITIES BY SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESSES WILL BENEFIT THE MOST FROM PPT CHANGES By Michael Marzano

OUR SMALL BUSINESSES AND ENSURING THAT LOCAL GOVERNMENTS ARE STILL ABLE

There have been sweeping tax and regulatory reforms made over the last few years that have benefited job-creating local businesses across the state. But the recent changes in Michigan’s personal property tax (PPT) system will not only be beneficial to Michigan businesses but also Michigan communities as a whole. Small businesses stand to benefit the most from the recent changes to the PPT. Currently, when a small business purchases a piece of equipment, like a camera or computer, it pays the normal six percent sales tax. But in addition, each year that the small business owns or leases that equipment it continues to 54

TO PROVIDE SERVICES NEEDED BY THEIR COMMUNITIES.

Local communities around the state had concerns about the elimination of PPT. The PPT funds essential services like police, fire, jails, emergency services and schools. If we cut off the revenue stream to these services, communities will suffer. With the current proposal, though, that will not be the case. One hundred percent of the money for essential services will be funded to local communities and will be under local control. Even non-essential

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services, such as street cleaning and infrastructure funding, will still continue to be funded at 100 percent. This might all sound great, but where is the money coming from to continue to fund these local services AND eliminate personal property tax for many of our Michigan small businesses? Instead of having to increase taxes on individuals, as some might think would be the case, this money is actually coming from business tax credits that were issued years ago that are up for expiration this year. The money used for these tax credits will go to fund the reimbursements to local governments for their provided community services instead of having to raise taxes on Michigan taxpayers. At the end of the day, the bipartisan reforms made to PPT will benefit our communities by supporting our small businesses and ensuring that local governments are still able to provide services needed by their communities. The one last piece of this puzzle is that these changes must be approved by Michigan voters on Aug. 5. Voting “yes” on these measures will continue Michigan’s recovery and increase our economic competitiveness.

Michael Marzano is Grassroots Coordinator & Policy Advisor for the Small Business Association of Michigan

HE SAID, SHE SAID

reinvesting in communities. In the last decade, Michigan’s communities have been hit hard by property tax decline and cuts to state revenue sharing. Had the legislature chosen to stick with a personal property tax elimination plan that would result in a hit to municipal budgets, it would have been devastating to a number of communities who provide essential services.

PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX REVENUE CRITICAL TO ECONOMY By Samantha Harkins

Reinvesting in Michigan’s communities is the cornerstone to the state’s economic recovery. Data from across the nation shows that those states with vibrant communities are thriving. They are beacons for job creation and attracting and retaining talent. This is why the League opposed elimination of the state’s personal property tax without full replacement.

The current proposal recognizes that communities play a critical role in Michigan’s economic comeback. Not only do they provide essential services such as police, fire, water and road maintenance, but vibrant communities are an economic driver. Today’s college graduates choose where they want to live first and then look for a job. They are looking for communities that provide not only essential services but also have walkable downtowns, parks and public transit. Our communities need 100 percent of personal property tax revenue replaced to provide essential

When personal property tax was making its way through the legislature in 2011 and 2012, the League’s message was consistent: full, guaranteed reimbursement. When the legislation ultimately passed in December of 2012, we were neutral on the proposal with the understanding that all parties would work together to fix outstanding issues. There were meetings throughout the subsequent year, and we continued to work toward our goal of full, guaranteed reimbursement. In the fall of 2013 we were approached with an idea that would include full reimbursement of personal property tax with a more stable reimbursement mechanism. Our board voted to support this proposal, and we can fast forward to the spring of 2014 with rapidly moving legislation that is broadly supported by a wide variety of stakeholders. Fully replacing personal property tax is a statement about the importance of

services and create places where people want to live, work and play. Replacing 100 percent of personal property tax revenue isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s a critical part of Michigan playing a strong role in a 21st Century economy.

Samantha Harkins is the Director of State Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. She is responsible for directing the League’s lobbying team in Lansing as well as specifically handling municipal finance and labor issues. She joined the League in February of 2008 as a Legislative Associate. She was named by Crain’s Detroit Business as one of the Top Ten People to Watch in Politics in 2014. In 2011, she was honored in the Inside Michigan Politics Lobbyist Survey by being ranked in the top 20 for Individual Lobbyist as well as ranked number 2 in the Individual Single Interest Lobbyist category.

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Y WE CARE

A Unique Path to Entrepreneurship BY J US TIN CAINE

ant to reduce taxes and help jump-start the economy? Support an entrepreneur with a disability. My entrepreneurial journey started when I was 10, though I had no clue at the time. You see, when I was 10, I had a massive brain hemorrhage, caused by a cancerous tumor. That, along with the subsequent surgery, led me to have some physical and cognitive disabilities.

PH OTO P ROV I D E D

I fought the stigma that came with my disabilities, all the way through college, where I eventually graduated with an associate’s degree in media technology from Lansing Community College. It was hard to find a job after college, as it is for everyone. However, I had the added hurdle of looking - and sounding intoxicated to anyone who didn’t know me. I also didn’t have a driver’s license, never had, and I was 23 years old. Needless to say, the barriers I faced in obtaining employment were pretty significant. Finally, one day, I had an epiphany. In order to really separate myself from the pack, to be able get noticed for the right things, for my talents, I had to find something I had that others didn’t. I went back to Sparrow Hospital (this time by choice!) and started volunteering and speaking on their behalf. My contacts grew to include some pretty impressive names, especially for a person my age. Knowing I also was struggling to make ends meet, Sparrow started hiring me to do some video work for them. That’s how I started my life as an entrepreneur. It still wasn’t easy. My abilities were limited, due to my physical challenges. I needed a partner. I found him, by chance, in East Lansing. His name is Kraig Westfall and he 56

In 2012, Good Fruit Video was inducted into the Michigan Meetings + Events Hall of Fame as an Up and Coming Provider for Events.

is an amazing videographer and editor with a limited network. I was not a videographer and was limited by experience when it came to editing, but my network was large. It was a solid match. That was five years ago, and today we continue to grow and build our business every day. It’s still not easy, but it’s nothing compared to what I faced as a 10 year old. My story may seem be unique to some readers, but it’s common for individuals with disabilities. It’s hard enough to find work; couple that with a disability, the associated stigma and it can sometimes appear impossible. The only option some people have is to either start a venture themselves or live in poverty, supplemented by government checks.

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So, if you come across a business, run by a person with a disability, however big or small it is, stop. Remember; they’ve made the choice to take the reigns and use their skills, rather than relying on public support. What they’re doing is challenging and it can be scary, but they do it anyway. Support them. Justin Caine is the co-owner of a local video production company, Good Fruit Video, and founder of several other programs and events. He also is an active member of both the SBAM Leadership Council and the state’s Developmental Disabilities Council.

Y WE CARE

Borrow local.

From left: Adam Goss, Vice President Commercial Loan Officer, Summit Community Bank; Scott and Tina Gleason, Jeff and Debbie Burgess, Maxima Supply LLC; Christopher Nugent, Senior Vice President and Chief Lending Officer, Summit Community Bank

We did! We wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for Summit Community Bank. Chris took a chance on us and we will never forget it. We love these guys! —Scott Gleason and Jeff Burgess Maxima Supply LLC

Borrow local. Bank local. Be local.

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COLLECTIBLES

What About Buying Collectibles in Auction? BY PATRICK A. HEL L E R

Editor’s note: This is part one of a two-part column. Check back for part two in our June issue.

frequent question I am asked is whether buyers can get some bargains if buying in auctions. Like pretty much any other venue, there are opportunities to find great values in auctions, but also significant risks of overpaying. Let me break down the sale of collectibles by auction into five categories. First, you have local auction sales of an estate or household that just happens to include some collectibles. Second, you have general auctioneers who hold specialized collectible auctions. Third, you have government agencies such as the Michigan Department of Treasury holding auctions. Fourth, you have online auctions of which eBay is the best known. Fifth, you have regional, national or international auctions conducted by companies that specialize in collectibles. The most important rule for bidding in any auction is to know what you are trying to buy. That means you have the responsibility for learning the identity and condition of items and also a feel for the wholesale and retail markets for them. Rule number two is to read and understand the terms of sale. Do you have any return options should the item turn out to be fake, have hidden undisclosed damage or is misidentified? Sometimes you will only have a return privilege by reason of being counterfeit if you notify the auction company at the time you pay for the items. Also, pay attention to the payment and settlement requirements — and comply with them. Have you noticed that many household and estate auctions often contain some quantity of collectibles? Auctioneers have learned that these venues can often encourage uninformed buyers into paying well above retail value simply because something is “old.” You might be surprised how many 58

auctioneers purchase coins and paper money from my store to place into such auctions. Their plan is to take advantage of uninformed buyers who get swept up in the auction frenzy. However, I also helped a customer years ago who purchased a box of papers at an auction for $3 and then sold me $1,400 of 1950s-era autographs that were among the contents. THE MOST IMPORTANT RULE FOR BIDDING IN ANY AUCTION IS TO KNOW WHAT YOU ARE TRYING TO BUY. Small scale collectible auctions by general auctioneers might appear to have among the lots possible hidden treasures that can be picked up for a song. Sorry, but auctioneers who know their business usually have collectibles evaluated by experts (if they are not themselves familiar with the particular collectibles) to pull out the best items for sale by other means. What is often left in such auctions are collectibles with damage or wear, not all of which is disclosed. Over the decades, I’ve had to give the bad news to dozens of people who bought lots in such auctions at prices they thought were a steal. Instead, there usually is some damage that sharply reduced the value of the items compared to reference catalogs or online auctions. Yes, some people have made some good buys in such auctions, but more than 90 percent of items I have seen come out of such auctions could be bought for less from most dealers. Auctions by government agencies are a mixed bag. If one is well advertised to the public, and potential buyers are able to thoroughly analyze the lots before bidding

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starts, bargains tend to be few. On the other hand, say that a lot is described as a tube of 20 US Silver Dollars, where buyers are not able to open the tube to examine the dates and mintmarks and the condition of each individual coin. Dealers in such goods will tend to be conservative in their bidding to avoid getting burned. In such circumstances, retail buyers occasionally get lucky and find that they have bought items of much higher value than indicated in the lot description. Still, my company has enjoyed a significant patronage from visitors who came to Lansing for an all-day Michigan Department of Treasury escheats auction — who quickly realized that there were no bargains to be had at the event. I’ll discuss the pros and cons of the last two types of auctions in my next column. Happy hunting.

Patrick A. Heller is the 2012 American Numismatic Association National Coin Dealer of the Year. He owns Liberty Coin Service in Lansing, the largest coin dealership in Michigan. He writes a monthly newsletter, Liberty’s Outlook available at www.libertycoinservice.com), and commentaries on precious metals and collectibles on various websites. His awardwinning radio show “Things You ‘Know’ That Just Aren’t So, And Important News You Need To Know” can be heard at 8:45 AM Wednesday and Friday mornings on 1320-AM WILS in Lansing (which streams live and is archived at www.1320wils. com). He is also the Executive Producer of the forthcoming movie “Alongside Night.” Heller was the unofficial “artist” of the 2004 Michigan Statehood Quarter.

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R E A L E S TAT E

Success Does not Live in a Vacuum BY TRICIA FOS TER

s the Greater Lansing Business Monthly Entrepreneurial Award winners and nominees can most certainly attest, success in business takes hard work and dedication. But that doesn’t mean long hours spent toiling away in a solitary existence. Quite the opposite. You see, success doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Having been in business for more than 50 years, we recognize that building and maintaining a successful business requires a carefully laid foundation of long-term relationships. Building those relationships takes time, experience, expertise, fortitude and a strong commitment to the community.

YO U DO N ’T K N O W IT A L L

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Environmental Design Accredited Professional Not every profession has such a vast array of traditional opportunities to engage in continuing education, and some of our most valuable lessons come from real life experience. Regardless, embracing new tools (Hello, iPad and Twitter!), techniques and training opportunities means that the service we deliver will continue to be best-of-class. A N D YO U CA N ’T DO IT ALONE

We are all likely familiar with the expression “it takes a village to raise a child.” Likewise, it takes a community to build and support any successful business. We rely on our community to provide us with clients, employees, entertainment, education, workplaces and homes. The stronger our community, the more solid the foundation on which our business relationships are built. Investing in that community and building it up through service and support not only

reinforces the strength of our collective economic investment, it also aligns with certain core values that we hold dear and believe every entrepreneurial award winner should embrace: Respect, Integrity, Service and Excellence. These are the guiding principles in all that we do, and we approach our commitment to service with the same enthusiasm and creativity as we approach our business every day.

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Congratulations to the Entrepreneurial Awards winners. I wish you well as you continue to hone your expertise and build upon your current success, and I look forward to watching your business and careers flourish as you contribute to the vibrancy in our community.

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912 West St. Joseph, Lansing, MI 48915

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ACCOUNTING

Entrepreneurs Deserve Respect BY BRUCE DUNN

hy do we respect entrepreneurs? First, we must ask ourselves: what is an entrepreneur? An entrepreneur is defined as an owner of a business enterprise who, by risk and initiative, attempts to make profits. Risk is defined as exposure to the chance of loss. Initiative is defined as an introductory step or leading action. Profits are defined as the monetary surplus leftover after deducting expenses. Based on these four definitions, it is easy to see that not everyone has this skill set. The first definition we must discuss is risk. The GLBM_JanuaryAd.pdf chance of loss1 12/12/2013 can mean many 12:27:32 PM

RISK

INIT IAT IVE

things. The first thing that comes to mind is financial loss: putting all of your assets up for collateral to obtain a loan to start a business. Then there is the risk of loss of friends or family if the business fails. Many individuals do not have the ability to deal with this type of risk; it takes a special breed to be able to determine if the potential gains outweigh the risks. The second definition we need to discuss is initiative. How many of us have had an

ARCHITECTURE • ENGINEERING • PLANNING

PRO F ITS

idea, but failed to follow through on it? I’m sure all of us have had this happen at one time or another. How many times have we wished our employees or our peers would show some initiative by stepping up to the plate and being a leader? I use a term for initiative called going “self-insured.” It means that I am confident that if I am wrong, I can personally take the loss. Many times, people confuse lack of initiative with being lazy. I do not think this is the case, but rather that many individuals do not feel comfortable with dealing with the risk of being incorrect. This fear often leads people to not show initiative. The third definition I pointed out was profits. The goal of a business is to earn profits, as without them, it will almost certainly fail. Lately, there has been too much confusion between greed and profits. Over the last several years, I have worked with numerous businesses that would not have survived, had they not been profitable in prior years and saved their profits for future concerns and tough times. Profits allow businesses to reward employees, pay down debt, expand operations, and invest in technology, research and development. “Profits” is not a dirty word, but rather, it is an important word in business. Profitable businesses many times are leaders in our communities and without them, the greater Lansing area would not be what it is today.

CMY

P 517.371.1200 info@c2ae.com C2AE.COM 62

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So, let’s get back to my original question: why do we respect entrepreneurs? The answer is because those people who are bold enough to be entrepreneurs are truly a special breed. They take the risk,

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while others sit back and watch from the sidelines. They live their dream, success or failure, but at the end of the day, we know they gave it their best shot. We describe these people as doers, risk takers and leaders. Sure, we can look to Silicon Valley and rattle off names like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, but we don’t need to go all the way there to find big name entrepreneurs… Names such as Larry Page and Andy Beal might not be familiar to everyone: Larry Page is the inventor of PageRank, the foundation of Google’s search ranking algorithm and one of the co-founders of Google. Larry was born in East Lansing and graduated from East Lansing High School in 1991. Andy Beal is currently a Dallas-based businessman who accumulated his wealth via real estate and banking. Andy was born and raised in Lansing and is a 1971 graduate from Lansing Sexton High School.

So, don’t say it can’t be done if you are from mid-Michigan, because it is happening every day. Don’t think for a minute that when a new development is started in Lansing that it happened by accident: some individual showed entrepreneurial spirit. Some individuals might not even know they are entrepreneurs because they are too busy taking risk, showing some initiative and wanting to make a living by making their business profitable. They simply get up every day and just do it. It might not be fancy, sophisticated or pretty, but to the entrepreneur, it is their dream and their business. We might not have all the required skills to be a true entrepreneur, but we DO all have these skills at one time or another. The next time you need to assess risk, show some initiative or help the business be more profitable, stop and assess the situation. Put your fear of failure behind you. Analyze the situation and show some initiative. You just might surprise yourself.

We may not end up being billionaires like Larry Page or Andy Beal, but we can all show some entrepreneurial spirit. Congratulations to all the winners of this year’s awards. I think we all know why we respect an entrepreneur.

Bruce Dunn currently serves as president of Maner, Costerisan & Ellis, P.C., and he specializes in auditing. He is well known for his service to educational organizations, not-for-profit organizations, and closely held corporations. In addition, Bruce provides peer review services for other certified public accounting firms. He is a graduate of Western Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, majoring in accounting.

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Treasury Management from FirstMerit Bank When John talked to FirstMerit Bank’s Treasury Management team, his goal was to increase his company’s working capital. Together, they came up with a plan to help John effectively manage receivables, control payments, and improve his company’s overall cash flow. Now John has all the tools he needs to keep his business moving in the right direction — forward.

TO L E A R N MOR E, C O N T A C T :

Tracy Brewer, Treasury Management Sales Officer, at 517-788-2791 or tracy.brewer@firstmerit.com. Follow the latest market trends @firstmerit_mkt

firstmerit.com Member FDIC 2411_FM14

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FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Asset Location and Timing to Reduce Taxes in Retirement P HOTO BY THOMAS W. SMA L L

ocation, location, location ... It matters when it comes to real estate, and it also matters when it comes to the way you hold and invest your retirement savings. You can’t control what happens with the tax code, but you can control how your savings are held. As various types of investments are taxed at varying rates, some investments are better held in taxable accounts and others in tax-deferred accounts. Funds that trade frequently (such as bond funds and money market funds) are better off in tax-deferred accounts, as much of their yields represent taxable income. Traditional IRAs are tax-inefficient (relatively speaking), and by holding a traditional IRA within a tax-deferred account, you can delay paying tax on those IRA assets until you withdraw them in retirement (when you will presumably be in a lower tax bracket than you are now). What kinds of investments are usually better off in taxable accounts? Think index funds, growth funds, tax-managed funds and ETFs that tend to generate capital gains (growth funds especially are prone to reinvesting profits). In light of long-term capital gains rates, keeping these types of investments in taxable accounts makes sense, according to cnn.com and yahoo.com. Timing isn’t everything, but ... The timing of withdrawals from retirement accounts can have a major impact on your income taxes — and the longevity of your savings. You don’t want to outlive your money, and you want your income taxes to be as minimal as possible once you are retired. To that end, you want to withdraw from your retirement accounts in a tax-efficient way.

By drawing down taxable accounts first, you’ll face the capital gains tax rate instead of the ordinary income tax rate. Most retirees will see long-term capital gains taxed at 15 percent; for others, the longterm capital gains tax rate will be 0 percent, according to an article in the Chicago Tribune. In taking money out of the taxable accounts to start, you are not only giving yourself a de facto tax break but also giving the retirement funds in the tax-advantaged accounts more time to grow and compound (and even a year or two of compounding and growth can be significant if you have held a tax-advantaged account for decades). Withdrawals from tax-deferred accounts — such as traditional IRAs and 401(k)s and 403(b)s — can follow, and then lastly withdrawals from Roth accounts. Following these asset location and distribution approaches may leave you with more retirement income — in fact, Morningstar estimates that in tandem,

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they can boost a retiree’s income by about 8 percent. Tax loss harvesting can also help. Selling losers during a given year (i.e., stocks or mutual funds you have held for a year or more that are worth less than what you originally paid for them) will give you capital losses. These can directly lower your taxable income. As much as $3,000 of capital losses in excess of capital gains can be deducted from taxable income, and any remaining capital losses above that can be carried forward to offset capital gains in upcoming years. Additionally, whenever you sell stocks or funds with capital gains, strive to sell shares or units having the highest basis to reduce the gain, according to bankrate.com. If you receive a lump-sum payout, don’t put it in the bank. If you take direct control of that money, you are triggering a taxable event and your income taxes for that year could be staggering. An

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

alternative outcome: make a direct rollover of the lump-sum payout (qualified distribution) into a traditional IRA. That move will exclude that money from your total taxable income for the year, and put you in position to take taxable annual Required Minimum Distributions (RMD), with the taxable RMDs being smaller than the taxable lump sum. (Alternately, you could directly roll the lump sum payout into a Roth IRA, which would leave you paying taxes on the conversion but set you up for tax-free withdrawals in retirement if Roth IRA rules and regulations have been followed), according to the Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Institute for Financial Education. Incidentally, it is often more advantageous to take an in-kind distribution of company stock rather than rolling shares over to an IRA. The question is whether you want to pay ordinary income tax or capital gains tax. If a lump-sum distribution is taken off the shares, the investor pays income tax on

YOU DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T WANT TO OUTLIVE YOUR MONEY, AND YOU WANT

for retirees can help. Even moving to another town within your current state might result in some tax savings.

YOUR INCOME TAXES TO BE AS MINIMAL AS POSSIBLE ONCE YOU ARE RETIRED.

the original cost basis of the stock. If the distribution is in-kind (i.e., the payout is in securities, not cash), the net unrealized appreciation (NUA) remains tax-deferred until the securities are sold. At their sale, the NUA is taxed as a long-term capital gain, according to raymondjames.com. Lastly, consider living in a state where taxes bite a little less. Not everyone can afford to move, but in the long run, living in Florida, Nevada, Washington, Texas or other states that are relatively tax-friendly

Tom Small may be reached at (517) 349-7111, or email Tom@ MichiganMoneyManagement.com, or check out www.MichiganMoneyManagement. com. He has offices in East Lansing at 735 W. Lake Lansing Rd. Ste. 100 and in Grand Rapids at 660 Cascade West Pkwy, Ste. 250. Registered Representative: Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/ SIPC. Investment Advisor Representative: Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Michigan Money Management, LLC are not affiliated.

www.loomislaw.com

CELEBRATING

60 YEARS

OF PROVIDING LEGAL SOLUTIONS TO MICHIGAN BUSINESSES AND INDIVIDUALS Loomis Law Firm lawyers have also been recognized as 2014 Best Lawyers in America, Michigan Super Lawyers, and as AV Preeminent Lawyers and Distinguished Lawyers selected by Martindale Hubbell. 2014 Lawyers of the Year: Karl Gotting (Administrative/Regulatory Law); James R. Neal (Natural Resources Law); Michael H. Rhodes (Health Care Law); and Paula K. Manis (Arbitration and Mediation)

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Why Does an Economic Development Agency Attend a Tech Conference? P HOTO BY S ARA GRAH A M

Our argument for attending was simple. We should be first on peoples’ minds when they think of communities that offer support to a tech culture, whether that is a startup or an existing business. To do this, we need to position ourselves around startup-minded individuals. Our first draw to Austin was to support the Lansing region’s burgeoning entrepreneurial ecosystem. While attending the conference, we were joined by many student entrepreneurs who were attending in order to make connections to advance their startup ideas, many of which are members of The Hatch student incubator. The LEAP team was very eager to attend right alongside them to offer support. Spartan Innovations, Michigan State University’s commercialization arm, has attended for many years, each year providing support to these students as they are entering the next phases of success. Carbon Cash, a student startup that incentivizes students to conserve energy on campus was one of eight university teams who were offered the opportunity to pitch at Student Startup Madness. Not only was Carbon Cash given this opportunity to 68

represent Michigan State University, but MSU was the only school who was invited two years in a row. This fact, coupled with the ecosystem the Lansing region has been building proves that the work we have been doing over the past few years is paying off. Secondly, our plan to introduce the Lansing market to budding tech professionals was crucial. Our strategy to do this was to market the region as a “disaster-free zone.” We launched a simple, “What is your evacuation plan? Escape to Lansing” campaign in which we called out many common natural disasters and one not-socommon disaster (Justin Bieber) and the fact that the Lansing region does not have them regularly or historically. This lighthearted campaign drew incredible amounts of attention to us and now hundreds people from across the globe are wearing t-shirts with this campaign and our URL on them. OUR FIRST DRAW TO AUSTIN WAS TO SUPPORT THE LANSING REGION’S BURGEONING ENTREPRENEURIAL ECOSYSTEM. Finally, our goal of combining forces with other attendees from Michigan was a large success. Pure Michigan took on a large undertaking and purchased one of the biggest booths available at the event. There, they invited people to learn about Michigan and what it has to offer. We were given the opportunity to work closely with the Pure Michigan team and speak with attendees specifically about Lansing area opportunities. Additionally, local tech company, Techsmith, which attends SXSW each year, worked closely with us to sell the Lansing market to attendees.

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PH OTO P ROV I D E D

“W

hat is LEAP? Is that part of Leap Motion?” Our team got this type of question daily throughout the three days we attended South by Southwest Interactive. After explaining that LEAP is an economic development agency, most were still a little perplexed by our presence. It became apparent to us that we are one of the few (if any) regional economic development agencies that would make this event a piece of our marketing strategy. South by Southwest draws more than 49,000 people over the 10 day period showcasing music, film and interactive technologies.

LEAP representatives handed out these T-shirts at the South by Southwest festival to increase interest in the Lansing region.

One thing that was apparent to our group was the fact that there needs to be a large representation of the tech companies in Michigan attending this event as a consortium to continue to be effective in our goals. The trip to Austin was a whirlwind of meeting interesting people, learning about new startup companies who are likely to become household names and putting Lansing on the map. The odds of one of the hundreds of people wearing our Escape to Lansing shirts and considering Lansing as a landing place for themselves or their new business is not farfetched.

Sara Graham is the Director of Talent and Communications for the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP).

We Live Here. We Race Here. We Save Lives Here. 12th Annual Komen Mid-Michigan Race for the Cure® Sunday, April 27th • 2 p.m. • State Capitol When we say “We Live Here. We Race Here. We Save Lives Here,” we mean it! In 2013, Komen Mid-Michigan funded 7 community grants that provide breast health education, screening and survivorship programs to uninsured and underinsured women in Mid-Michigan. The annual Komen Mid-Michigan Race for the Cure is our largest fundraiser of the year. When you register, fundraise or donate, 75% of the net revenue stays in Mid-Michigan to help local people. The remaining 25% helps fund cutting-edge national breast cancer research. To date, Susan G. Komen Mid-Michigan has invested nearly $4.2 million in its mission to end breast cancer forever! When you Race for the Cure, you make an impact in your community! Online Registration Available through Tuesday, April 22 Register in person at Playmakers until 5PM Saturday, April 26 *NEW* Race day registration at the Radisson Hotel Lansing at the Capitol from 11AM-1:30PM

best science. boldest commUnity. biggest impact. United in the fight against breast cancer.

www.komenmidmichigan.org or call 517.886.4901

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L A W AT W O R K

Protect Your Intellectual Property BY SA MUEL J. FREDER I C K A N D J OH N W. MA SH N I

ou don’t have to be Apple, Google or Coca Cola to protect your intellectual property.

According to the Interbrand 2013 annual survey, the three most valuable global brands are Apple ($98 billion), Google ($93 billion) and Coca-Cola ($79 billion). For Apple, Google and Coca-Cola, most readers can picture the logo associated with each one. The numbers associated with the brands are not revenues, market capitalization or sales. The numbers are the market valuations of the brands themselves. Another way of describing the value of a brand — it is the value, in part, of the company’s intellectual property. In today’s digital and knowledge-based business world, intellectual property rights are the cornerstone of a business’s value and competitive edge. Intellectual property rights are commercially valuable products of the human mind and can be classified into four primary categories: trademarks, copyrights, patents, and trade secrets. A company’s use of intellectual property rights may also include the related rights of publicity and privacy. Many businesses do not adequately secure these intellectual property rights and may, therefore, lose them to a competitor’s use. As a result, a company that fails to properly protect its intellectual property forfeits its competitiveness, and, perhaps, viability in the marketplace. Taking steps to identify, classify and protect your company’s intellectual property will enhance and safeguard the assets that drive your company’s competitive advantage. TRADEMARKS

The value of specific brands is directly related to the value of the company’s trademarks. Trademarks protect any word, symbol or other device that identifies 70

or distinguishes a good or service and identifies the source of the good or service. A logo or slogan is the most common type of “mark” that can be protected. However, sometimes even a sound, color or even smell can acquire trademark protection.

but that filing for federal copyright protection is still an important step to protecting and preserving all of an author’s rights.

Since your brand can ultimately become the most valuable asset as a company, it is important to carefully build and protect the brand from the very beginning.

Legal protection is available for inventions that are useful, novel and not obvious — commonly called patents. Patent protection can cover a process, machine, design (the way it looks) or even some types of plants. But it must be an invention. Securing patent protection provides an inventor the exclusive, government-issued right to exclude others from making, using or selling the invention for the duration of the patent. Furthermore, patent protection requires full public disclosure of an invention. Many individuals or businesses do not want to publicly disclose valuable secrets.

COPYRIGHTS

A copyright protects actual content that is created — it does not protect an idea. The content can be text, photos, videos, sound recordings, architecture, computer software, a website or any other content. It is important to remember that copyright protections attach at the moment of creation,

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PATENTS

TRADE SECRETS

Some businesses have valuable intellectual property but do not want to reveal the information publicly as would be required for a patent. Trade secrets consist of any type of proprietary information that an owner takes steps to keep secret and has economic value from being kept secret. Trade secrets can be protected under either federal or state law. Most businesses have trade secrets, and the key issue for businesses is to keep the information secret. Information can lose protection if it is revealed or available to the public.

remember, especially if a company will be using individuals to promote or market its products or services. The right of publicity can be easy to overlook, so make sure you consider it in commercial settings.

firm’s Information Technology Practice. He focuses his practice in the area of intellectual property, specifically in trademarks, copyrights and software licensing. Sam is a board member of the State Bar of Michigan’s IT Committee and actively participates in the Capital Area IT Council.

CONCLUSION

John Mashni brings a unique perspective to the firm with his practical experience as an entrepreneur, business owner and manager. His legal skill, paired with his understanding of entrepreneurship, provides him with invaluable insight to assist clients. John is a member of Foster Swift’s Business and Corporate Practice Group and is a member of the Ingham County Bar Association.

Taking five minutes to review what proactive and protective measures your company has in place to secure its intellectual property rights, and thereby, its competitive advantage, is a worthwhile investment to ensuring your company’s competitive standing in the marketplace, ensuring its financial success and protecting its image.

RIGHTS OF PUBLICITY

One commonly overlooked intellectual property right is a right of publicity. The right of publicity protects the commercial use of an individual’s name, identity or likeness. These rights are important to

Samuel Frederick is a member of Foster Swift’s Business and Corporate Practice Group and leads the

in the your of

Greater

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BUSINESS CALENDAR

April 2014 BUSINESS EVENTS

59TH MICHIGAN ANTIQUARIAN BOOK & PAPER SHOW, LANSING. If you are a book and paper lover,

Learn how to carve the perfect ham for your Easter dinner and find useful ways to use up all of your leftovers. This free event will be held at the CUTCO Kitchen, located at 1863 West Grand River Avenue, from 6 to 9 p.m. Please RSVP for this event. Call (517) 481-2137 or visit http://bit.ly/1p1RYDo.

EC T I N N

COF

4/8

APRIL MEMBER MIXER, LANSING.

4/9

TRANSITION TO SUPERVISOR, EAST LANSING.

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

Make sure that you are 100 percent ready to handle the unique challenges that come with making the jump from staff to supervisor. This one-day training has everything you need to make a successful transition. Learn how to adjust to changing work relationships, establishing and maintaining credibility, management pitfalls to avoid, motivation skills of the experts, communicating with tact and finesse across job levels, developing your personal leadership style and disciplining and correcting problem behaviors. Check in begins at 8:30 a.m. and the seminar runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fee for this informative session is $179/person. Call (800) 258-7246 or visit www.nationalseminarstraining.com to register and for exact location information.

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

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

NS O

4/8

KITCHEN PARTY, OKEMOS.

this is an event for you. Join other paper enthusiasts at the Lansing Center from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dealers will be on-site from eight states and Canada selling books and paper including out-of-print items, first editions, signed books, children’s and illustrated books, magazines, postcards, photographs, maps and paper items. While there, enjoy concessions and live music. Tickets are $5/person and children 13 and under are free.

4/11

4/6

APRIL 2014

4/22

CONNECTIONS AND COFFEE, LANSING. The

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

4/24

FACEBOOK MARKETING, LANSING.

Find out how to use this social media powerhouse to drive business to your website, connect with potential customers, grow your organization and expand your public profile. You will learn how to develop a Facebook marketing plan that fits your business’ needs and goals, what you need to know about social media before you begin your Facebook campaign, how to implement a Facebook Page that will work for your business, Facebook’s tools, ways Facebook can establish stronger awareness of your organization and how to identify and connect with your target market. This one-day session is being held at Hampton Inn, located at 525 N. Canal Road with an 8:30 a.m. check-in and the program running from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost is $74/person. Call (800) 944-8503 or visit events.careertrack.com/284927.

5/6

ANNUAL SPRING LUNCHEON, EAST LANSING.

The Wharton Center Inner Circle volunteers will host their annual luncheon at Wharton Center’s Cobb Great Hall. New board members will be announced and several service awards will be presented, recognizing outstanding volunteer efforts. Call (517) 206-9039 or email bsjolander1@gmail.com for more information.

BUSINESS CALENDAR

5/6

5/14

CUSTOMER SERVICE SEMINAR, LANSING. Do you

want to learn how to turn every customer into an ally, out service your competitors, eliminate negative situations and overcome stress and burnout? This is a must-attend seminar for everyone who communicates with customers. You will not only learn how to train yourself, but also your staff to head off problems and rise to a level of service excellence. This seminar will be held at the Best Western Plus, located at 6820 S. Cedar St. Registration is from 8:30 to 9 a.m. and the seminar is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost for this session is $199/person. Visit www.pryor.com.

5/8

HUMAN RESOURCES SEMINAR, LANSING. This is

a seminar for anyone new to HR Responsibilities. In this crash course to HR, you will learn an HR legal primer on FLSA, EEO, FMLA, ADA and more, benefits basics, record keeping, how to best establish and maintain employee confidentiality, essentials of employee coaching, counseling and discipline, the critical need to know legal information regarding hiring and firing and more. This intensive training is being held at the Radisson Hotel, located at 111 N. Grand Ave. Registration is from 8:30 to 9 a.m. and the seminar is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost for this session is $149/ person. Visit www.careertrack.com.

5/9

PAM POSTHUMUS SIGNATURE AUCTION EVENT, LANSING. Join the Children’s Trust

Fund of Michigan for the Pam Posthumus Signature Auction Event at the Lansing Center. Doors open and the silent auction begins at 5 p.m. For more details, call 1-800-CHILDREN or visit www.michigan.gov/ ctfsignature.com.

5/28

SALES & USE TAX, LANSING. Do you want to

cut time, save money and avoid legal problems all while keeping your bottom line in check? Spend the day with us and you will learn the most misunderstood aspects of sales and use tax, requirements in your state, where to find the most upto-date information regarding sales and use tax laws, explore tax savings and exemptions, understand e-trade and discover how to streamline record keeping without putting yourself at risk. This informative session is being held at Comfort Inn, located at 525 N. Canal Road, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration is from 8:30 to 9 a.m. The cost of this session is $249/person or $229/person for groups of three or more. Visit www.pryor.com.

— 6TH ANNUAL DANCING

WITH THE LOCAL STARS, EAST LANSING. Help support Care Free

Medical & Dental and enjoy some dancing from local stars. There will be a dinner, a silent auction and of course the dancing. This event will be held at the Kellogg Center. Call (517) 887-5922 x. 225 for more information.

AVAILABLE:

2445 Jolly Rd. Okemos MI Sale: $1,950,000 Lease: $9.00/sf triple net

5/13-14 MANAGEMENT & LEADERSHIP SKILLS, LANSING. Are you new to management?

If so, then this two-day seminar is for you. You will learn the most effective and efficient ways to solidify your position, prioritize tasks, delegate responsibility, motivate people, coach, earn trust and respect, assess skills and weaknesses, hire and develop staff and communicate with peers and superiors. This seminar is being held at Best Western Plus Lansing Hotel, located at 6820 S. Cedar St., from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. Registration is from 8:30 to 9 a.m. The cost for this course is $299/person or $279/groups of three or more. Visit www.careertrack.com.

BUILDING FEATURES: • • • • • • • •

Medical office building Alaiedon Township Up to 26,783 SF Lot size 2.66 acres Common area connects separate ‘pods’ Easy access to 1-96 SEV $1,210,000 year 2013 Taxable value $1,123,000 year 2013

Annual property tax $62,295.63 year 2013 parcel #33-06-06-04-101-017 • Zoning B-1 general business district • Single story • ‘X-Ray’ ready areas • Onsite parking • Move in ready condition •

•

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M3 GROUP NAMES NEW VP OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT; ADDS TEAM MEMBERS Tiffany Dowling, President of M3 Group, is pleased to announce the promotion of Jennifer Hodges to Vice President of Business Development. Hodges has been with M3 Group since 2009. She has more than 20 years of experience in the industry. Before her recent promotion as VP of Business Development, Hodges she served as both an account manager and as the media director where she managed local, regional and national accounts and planned media budgets for organizations of all sizes. In her new role, Hodges will lead her sales team by example as she constantly seeks to achieve greater results for her clients. Thanks to the organization’s continued growth Dowling also announced the addition of two new staff members. Brooke Erwin has joined the team as social media specialist and Michael France as a graphic designer. As social media specialist, Erwin will play an integral role in maintaining clients’

and M3 Group’s social media sites while continuously looking for ways to improve social media services to help clients reach their goals. Previously an intern at M3 Group, Erwin recently earned her bachelor of advertising with a creative concentration from Michigan State University. “We are excited to be able to welcome one of our amazing interns into the fold,” said Dowling. “Not only will she be responsible for taking our clients’ and our social media platforms Erwin to new heights, she will give some of her time to designing publications and other graphics projects.” France is the newest addition to M3 Group. He is coming to the team with great experience and skills. France holds a bachelor of science in art 2D concentration and France journalism and a minor in multimedia design production and technology from Central Michigan University. “As a new graphic designer, Mike will help with our growing need to provide amazing creative for our clients,” added Dowling. “As we continue to expand our team, we

are committed to providing our clients with the results they are looking for in 2014 and beyond.” For more information, visit www.m3group.biz. MANER COSTERISAN ADDS NEW TEAM MEMBERS The certified public accounting firm of Maner Costerisan recently announced the addition of Michelle Chahine and Ken Schafer, CPA. Chahine joins Maner Costerisan as a customer service manager/project coordinator for the firm’s Business Solutions & Technology department. Her responsibilities include assisting current clients in scheduling service needs; working with new clients in scheduling and managing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) implementation projects; managing client project timelines and budgets. Prior to joining the firm, she served as a membership assistant for the YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing. As a senior manager in the firm’s tax department, Schafer provides comprehensive tax, accounting and consulting services for the firm’s clients. Prior to joining the firm, he served as a corporate tax officer for seven years at Capital Bancorp Ltd.

COLONIAL LIFE ANNOUNCES MICHIGAN AWARD WINNERS Colonial Life, celebrating their 75th year in the Voluntary Benefits market, has announced their 2013 Michigan Award winners. The top 5 awards were received by the local greater Lansing/Jackson area team. Laura Marshall was honored as the 2013 Michigan Territory District Agent Office of the Year, as well as the 2013 Territory General Agent for People Development. In addition, members of her team were honored. For the second year in a row, Ken Brownell was chosen 2013 Benefits Counselor of the Year and also added an additional award to his repertoire, 2013 Sales Representative of the Year. Dianna Atchison was selected as the 2013 Michigan Coordinator of the year. Colonial Award winners Laura Marshall, Ken Brownell and Dianna Atchison

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THE EXECUTIVE INFLUENCE OPENS LANSING OFFICE

The Executive Influence, Coaching and Consulting has opened an office at 120 N. Washington in downtown Lansing. Jeff Chaffin, Principal is a Certified Business Coach and has extensive experience as a business coach, corporate executive and successful entrepreneur. The Executive Influence offers a variety of services including; one on one coaching, group coaching, business effectiveness evaluation, executive effectiveness coaching, strategic planning and teamwork effectiveness coaching. The Executive Influence is on the web at www.theexecutiveinfluence.com.

INTERNATIONAL MOVING COMPANY KEEPS UP WITH GROWTH TREND, HIRES SIX NEW EMPLOYEES Two Men and a Truck is pleased to announce the addition of six new employees at its corporate headquarters in Lansing, Mich. These employees represent several areas of the business and will support more than 260 US locations. Caleb Williams, of Grand Rapids, was recently named lead generation manager, a new position for the company. James McCoy is the new sales support consultant at home office. Nicholas Popoff, of Eaton Rapids, is the new training and development specialist. Megan Ledger is the new after hours customer response representative at Two Men and a Truck. Joshua Gibson, of St. Johns, was recently hired as after hours customer response representative.

Lauren Ulrich is now after hours customer response representative at Two Men and a Truck.For more information visit www. twomenandatruck.com. DR. JANET ENG JOINS THE CENTER FOR OPTIMAL HEALTH Founder David Pawsat, D.O. announced recently that Janet Eng, D.O. has joined the wellness medicine healthcare team at the Center for Optimal Health. Dr. Eng’s interests include men and women’s health, hormone balance, nutrition, athletics, exercise performance and toxicology. Dr. Eng is certified in Emergency Medicine and completed a fellowship in Toxicology. She has worked on staff at the Detroit Poison Control Center and at many emergency departments in mid-Michigan. She is a member of MSU’s Clinical Faculty and has played

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an integral part in the university’s Emergency Medicine Residency Program. For more information, please visit www. cfohealth.com or contact us at (517) 324-9400. EATON RAPIDS RECOGNIZES BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CLUB FOR 50 YEARS OF GIVING The city of Eaton Rapids is proud to recognize Eaton Rapids Business and

Professional Women’s Club (BPW) for celebrating more than 50 years of giving to local women. Over the years, BPW has awarded more than 65 college scholarships to local women who have returned to school in order to make a better life for themselves and their families. This year, BPW will award three $1,000 college scholarships to women over the age of 25 who are residents in the Eaton Rapids area and are currently enrolled in an accredited college program.

The money for scholarships is raised through BPW’s two main fundraisers, Scraps for Scholarships and the annual Holiday Stop & Shop arts and crafts show. To learn more about the Eaton Rapids BPW scholarship or to download the application, visit www.bpw-michigan.org or call Janet Davidson at (517) 663-8558.

NEWS FROM CLARK CONSTRUCTION Clark Construction Company has announced the hiring of Charles Wesley as a superintendent and Dominic Adams and Joshua Short as project engineers.

Wesley

Charles Wesley comes to Clark Construction with 23 years construction experience, working as a project superintendent, project manager and licensed journeyman/ pipefitter.

Dominic Adams earned a master’s degree in building construction Receiving Keystone Award - Front Row, left to right - Paul Clark, Bill Cox, Nick Henne, Terry Stewart, Back Row - Don Volk, Charles Clark, Larry Holley, Char from Auburn University Konen, Ken Lawless, and Jake Carney and a bachelor’s degree in urban and regional Adams and include; Jake Carney, Bill Cox, Nick Henne, Andrew planning from Michigan State University. He has prior industry experience as a Richter and Terry Stewart. project engineer, engineering technician and research assistant. Clark Construction was also recently the recipient of the AGC Michigan Outstanding Safety Performance Award and Joshua Short received his bachelor’s the Keystone Award for Education Excellence. degree in construction management from Central Michigan University. He has prior Both awards were presented during the recent AGC of Short industry experience as a project manager Michigan Annual Meeting in Kalamazoo. and lead estimator. Clark Construction Company was founded in 1946 and is ranked In addition, five construction employees recently graduated as one of the top 400 CM firms in the nation by Engineering from AGC Future Construction Leaders Program. The five News Record. The firm is headquartered in Lansing, Mich. and employees are all project engineers with Clark Construction has a regional office in southeast Michigan Southfield.

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DART BANK PROMOTES MICHELLE CARPENTER Peter Kubacki, President and CEO of The Dart Bank, is pleased to announce the promotion of Michelle Carpenter to Assistant Vice President/Business Services Officer. Michelle has been with the bank for over 21 years. She services business customers with a variety of products and services that the bank offers, focusing on Carpenter Electronic Banking and the overall relationship. Michelle has held many positions over her years with the bank, including Office Manager, Personal Banker, Marketing Director and Lender/ Credit Card Manager. Michelle has been involved in several organizations including Mason Area Chamber of Commerce, United Way, March of Dimes and American Cancer Society. RANDY STEC NAMED EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF SALES AND MARKETING OFFICER FOR GREENSTONE Randy Stec has been named executive vice president and chief sales and marketing officer for GreenStone Farm Credit Services. As GreenStone’s executive vice president and chief sales and marketing officer, Stec will serve as the leader of many of the cooperative’s customer-facing workgroups. In addition to being responsible for oversight of sales and support for all of GreenStone’s products and services at each of the 36 local offices, he will also now lead the organization’s Capital Markets team and Commercial Lending Unit, as well as the in-house Marketing and Public Relations department.

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Stec, who began his career as a financial services officer, has held a variety of positions with GreenStone during his 30-plus year tenure. He most recently served as senior vice president of sales

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and customer relations overseeing sales at each of GreenStone’s 36 locations. A lifelong Michigan native, Stec attended Ferris State University earning a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting. He also attended the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. MAXWELL APPOINTED TO EATON COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION Receiving a historymaking appointment from the Eaton County Board of Commissioners, Dorothy E. Maxwell has become the first female, as well as the first Maxwell African American, to be named to the Eaton County Road Commission in its 101-year history. Her

6-year term began January 1, 2014 when she filled a vacancy created by an expired term of her predecessor.

Mich. in Livingston, Genesee, Washtenaw and Shiawassee counties, as well as in Hingham, Wis.

Maxwell is President of the Max Weingar Group, a Lansing-based consulting firm focused on workplace competence and organizational development. She is an award-winning business leader who, as well, was a former Delta Township Trustee and Planning Commissioner.

O’Keefe graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in communications and business. He has extensive experience in O’Keefe sales for both the medical and pharmaceutical industries, including two years as a field sales representative trainer at Johnson & Johnson.

KEVIN O’KEEFE JOINS SOUTHEASTERN EQUIPMENT COMPANY Southeastern Equipment Company is pleased to announce that Kevin O’Keefe has joined the company as outside sales representative at the Holt, Mich. location. O’Keefe is selling the entire line of equipment throughout southeastern

LEAP TEAM GROWS WITH THREE NEW EMPLOYEES On the heels of a record year of job creation and investment, three new employees have joined LEAP as part of the business development and new economy division teams. The business development team welcomes Keith Lambert as the Tri County Development Manager. Lambert will work closely on the Agriculture Development workgroup, on development projects with the tri county communities in the non-immediate greater Lansing area and with the MI Avenue Corridor Improvement Authority.

Lambert

Lambert most recently was the Coordinator of the Microenterprise Network of Michigan at Community Economic Development Association of Michigan, CEDAM. Lambert received his BA in international relations through the James Madison College at Michigan State University.

The New Economy Division welcomes two new staff members after the departure of the department Co-Director in late 2013. Quin Stinchfield will take on the Manager of Business Incubation role providing maintenance management and oversight of the LEAP-run incubators in the region.

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MSUFCU ANNOUNCES NEW BRANCH MANAGER AND ASSISTANT BRANCH MANAGER Patrick McPharlin, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MSU Federal

Stinchfield most recently was the Business Advancement Director for the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce in Charleston, SC. Stinchfield also founded BIZ INC, the first business incubator program in Mount Pleasant, SC prior to joining the Chamber. Stinchfield earned Stinchfield her BA in interpersonal and public communications from the University of Akron and her MPA in public administration from the College of Charleston. Tony Willis joins LEAP as the Manager of Business Acceleration. Willis will assist business owners and entrepreneurs to get their ideas from concept to market. He will help businesses tap into the vast amount of resources greater Lansing has to offer whether it is the Business Accelerator Fund, business pitch competitions, local incubators and other programs.

Willis

Willis spent the past three years as a Business Services Specialist at MSU Federal Credit Union. In this role, Willis specialized in business development, account management and commercial lending with a focus on startups. Willis earned a BA in communications with specialization in PR from Michigan State University.

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Credit Union, is pleased to announce the promotions of Scott Ring to Branch Manager at MSUFCU’s Sparrow Branch and Betty Jo Whipp to Assistant Manager at MSUFCU’s South Lansing Branch. Scott Ring has worked for MSUFCU since January of 2009, and previously served as the Assistant Manager at the South Lansing Branch located on Jolly Road before Ring being promoted to the Manager at the MSUFCU branch located in the Sparrow professional building.

AIR LIFT GARNERS PRESTIGIOUS STAG-PARKWAY TOP SUPPLIER AWARD

and accessories distributors, Atlantabased Stag-Parkway awarded Air Lift the coveted, glass-blown “Peach Award” from the internationally renowned Frabel Studio in Atlanta.

Air Lift Company, based in Lansing, Mich., was recently recognized as one of Stag-Parkway Inc.’s top five suppliers at a ceremony in San Juan. One of North America’s largest RV aftermarket parts

Air Lift’s Product Marketing Manager Aaron Lundy accepted the award from Stag-Parkway’s President and CEO

Enhancing Michigan’s Quality of Life ACEC Michigan: Award Winning Engineering & Surveying Projects Top Award Winners:

Betty Jo Whipp has been with MSUFCU since November of 2010, and was previously a Traveling Financial Services Representative. Whipp Whipp joined MSUFCU’s Management Development Program before being promoted to Assistant Branch Manager at MSUFCU’s South Lansing Branch. DART BANK 2013 NET PROFIT RESULTS BEST SINCE 2002, UP 41 PERCENT OVER PREVIOUS YEAR In its most profitable year in over 10 years, The Board of Directors of Dart Financial Corporation (Dart), headquartered in Mason, Mich. and the holding company for The Dart Bank reported a net profit of $2,347,065 or $1.98 per share in 2013. The return on average equity last year was 8.52 percent compared to 5.95 percent in 2012. Total assets at year-end were $271 million.

West Bay County Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements > Fleis & VandenBrink Engineering Wastewater Treatment Facility upgrades saved West Bay County millions of dollars while providing a sustainable design with increased plant capacity for years to come.

Kalamazoo River Bank Stabilization > Fleis & VandenBrink Engineering Advanced surveying methods and laser technology saved this global manufacturing headquarters from imminent danger caused by an eroding bluff.

Other Award Winners:

Dart is focusing on growth in three areas: new loan customers, new deposit clients and qualifying new shareholder prospects. The Dart Bank, a privately owned local independent bank, operates three offices located in Mason, Holt/South Lansing and Grand Ledge, providing a full range of business and personal banking services and has been serving their communities since 1925. To learn more visit www.dartbank.com.

Mackinac Island Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements > Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr & Huber, Inc.

Blue Water Bridge Plaza Inspection Booth Expansion > HNTB Michigan

CHASS Southwest Center > Harley Ellis Devereaux

I-94 & Sargent Road Interchange > HH Engineering / G2 Consulting Group

ACEC of Michigan numbers nearly 100 elite firms throughout the state, engaged in engineering/ architectural/surveying works that propel the state’s economy, and enhance and safeguard Michigan’s quality of life. Are you working with an ACEC firm?

517. 332.2066 > acecmi.org

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Martin Street in January at the San Juan Convention Center during Stag-Parkway’s 25th annual National Trade Show. More than 1,700 dealers, exhibitors and other industry members were in attendance. Air Lift Company, founded in 1949, is a third generation, family owned suspension specialty company based in Lansing, Mich. For more information visit www.airliftcompany.com. HABITAT FOR HUMANITY LANSING NAMES NEW DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Diehl

Patrick Diehl is the new development director for Habitat for Humanity Lansing, which has built or rehabilitated over 100 homes in Greater Lansing since 1987.

Diehl, who possesses extensive fundraising and communications experience within Michigan’s nonprofit community, is charged with developing and implementing the organization’s fundraising plan, securing support from individual, business/corporate and foundation donors and overseeing all aspects of the development department. LANSING REGIONAL CHAMBER HIRES TRAVIS RICHARDSON AS MANAGER OF EVENTS AND PROGRAMMING

Richardson

Travis Richardson, a public relations and event management professional, has been hired as the Lansing Regional Chamber’s manager of events and programming. Richardson has a variety

of experience in marketing, public relations and event management. Richardson graduated from Central Michigan University (CMU) in December 2013, with a bachelor’s degree in public relations and event management. CLARK HILL ATTORNEY SEAN P. GALLAGHER NAMED INGHAM COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION 2014 TOP 5 UNDER 35 Clark Hill Attorney Sean P. Gallagher has been named one of the Ingham County Bar Association’s 2014 Top 5 Under 35. The awards recognize outstanding young lawyers in the community who have distinguished themselves in their relatively short career by manifesting: exemplary character, integrity, judgment and legal scholarship; service to the

What’s so special about the number 5? In basketball, the number 5 is used to represent the position of center The 5th U.S. President was James Monroe

The Olympic Games have five interlocked rings as their symbol On most telephones, the 5 key is associated with the letters J, K, and L

There are 5 departments at Maner Costerisan ready to serve our client needs When you engage a CPA firm, you expect to work with professionals with diverse financial experience. At Maner Costerisan, that’s exactly what you get. We have the depth of knowledge to ensure that clients’ expectations are not only met, but exceeded. Our team of professionals has the ability to handle the most complex and challenging tasks. At Maner Costerisan, the numbers speak for themselves.

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profession and the bar; service to the community; and a reputation for or the advancement of the highest legal standards and professional responsibility. FDIC GIVES FINAL APPROVAL ALLOWING CAPITOL NATIONAL BANK TO BEGIN NEW ERA AS A STANDALONE, SELF-GOVERNING INSTITUTION The Federal Deposit Insurance Commission (FDIC) has given its approval to a plan that has allowed Lansing-based Capitol National Bank to become fully divested from its holding company, Capital Bancorp. The FDIC action means that Capitol National Bank has entered a new era as a stand alone, self-governing institution. Paula Cunningham remains as President and CEO of the new Capitol National Bank. Continuing its mission as a community bank, CNB will be governed by a local board of directors, consisting of business owners and entrepreneurs from the Greater Lansing region.

CNB recently expanded its employee base to include a new, well experienced SBA staff as well as several other new employees. It is their goal to make certain that they have ample staff to be as responsive as possible to the needs of customers. Capitol National Bank has provided relationship banking to the Greater Lansing community since its founding in 1982. The hallmark of their success is specializing in a very high level of personal service for businesses, entrepreneurs and professionals. KELLY LAGRAVE ELECTED NALA PRESIDENT Kelly A. LaGrave, ACP, a business and corporate paralegal with Foster Swift Collins & Smith, P.C., was elected to serve as the 2014-2015 President of the National LaGrave Association of Legal Assistants (NALA).

An accomplished paralegal, LaGrave has earned the Certified Paralegal designation, as well as Advanced Paralegal Certification in the areas of Intellectual Property, Real Estate and Contracts Administration/Contracts Management. In addition, she has helped with the review and establishment of NALA’s advanced certification program in Incorporated Business Organizations and Unincorporated Business Organizations. For more information about the firm, its attorneys and to access recent publications, visit www.fosterswift.com. LENAWEE COUNTY WOMAN EARNS HIGHFIELDS’ DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

Sawdey-Roberts

Highfields Associate Director of Community Services LuAnn SawdeyRoberts of Hudson is the 2014 recipient of the Carl J. Latona Distinguished Service

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK PRESENTS $43,000 CHECK TO THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY Two Men and a Truck, the nation’s largest franchised moving company, recently donated a check for $43,093 to the American Cancer Society. The company, which has supported the American Cancer Society as its national charity of choice since 2000, donates 10 cents of every move to the cause. With this donation, more than $425,000 has been contributed to the American Cancer Society. President Randy Shacka presented American Cancer Society Associate Director Mark Heffner and Senior Representative Mary Kraft with the donation from last year’s total moves. “Giving back to the community has been a vital part of the Two Men and a Truck system long before it was formalized as a core value of ours,” said Shacka. “When we reflect on our core purpose of Moving People Forward, I can’t think of a better organization to team up with than the American Cancer Society and am so proud of the relationship that has formed over the past several years with this organization.

We stand behind ACS to continue supporting the fight to beat cancer.” For cancer information or to donate, contact your American Cancer Society anytime, day or night, at (800) 227-2345 or by visiting www.cancer.org.

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Award. She was chosen by her peers for her leadership and dedication.

INFORUM NAMES CATHERINE ROGG AS VICE PRESIDENT

The award recognizes integrity, passion to help others, perseverance and commitment to excellence and is named for Carl J. Latona, who served as president/ CEO of Highfields for more than 25 years.

Inforum recently annouced the appointment of Catherine Rogg as vice president, corporate engagement. As vice president, corporate engagement, Cathie will be the relationship lead for

corporate investors and companies, serving as one of the most visible brand ambassadors for the organization in the West Michigan region and across the state of Michigan. ATTORNEY AARON DAVIS APPOINTED TO SERVE ON THE BOARD OF POTTER PARK ZOO

Davis

Fraser Trebilcock attorney, Aaron L. Davis, of Okemos, was recently appointed by the Ingham County Commission to serve a three-year term as a Board Member of Potter Park Zoo.

The Potter Park Zoo Board is responsible for reviewing Zoo operations, policies and procedures, as well as for providing advice and recommendations to the County Parks and Recreation Commission, including preparation of annual operations and capital improvements budgets. SMALL BUSINESS OWNER GIVES BACK TO LOCAL COMMUNITY

Conway

Heather Conway, a Certified Public Accountant and owner of Conway CPA & Associates PLLC, is a strong leader with a big heart and makes it her mission to give back to her local

community. It’s that mission that recently drove Conway to step in as committee chair for the Rotary Club of East Lansing’s newest fundraising project, “Pedal for a Purpose.” A long-time member of Rotary, Conway said being a part of the organization allows her to surround herself with people who share a common goal. In addition to her volunteer work with Rotary, Conway is also an active member of the Junior League of Lansing. In fact, she was awarded 2009 New Member of the Year. 82

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Conway has also served as a Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Ambassador for 2013, is a board member and the treasurer for both the Rotary Club of East Lansing and the Meridian Area Business Association. Conway is also a member of the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

FINANCIAL ADVISOR, NICHOLAS F. NAUTA EARNS CHARTERED LIFE UNDERWRITER DESIGNATION Nicholas F. Nauta, CFP, Financial Advisor with CUSO Financial Services at CASE Credit Union has earned the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) professional designation from The American College, Bryn Mawr, PA.

The Chartered Life Underwriter is the highest standard of knowledge and trust and the world’s most respected designation of insurance expertise. Nick joined CASE Financial Solutions in 2008 to advise clients on how to create, protect and manage their wealth. CASE

Conway CPA & Associates PLLC has been in business for more than seven years and is now one of the leading firms in and throughout Okemos. Conway’s accounting experience spans 20 years while specializing in tax for 17 of those years. Conway CPA & Associates PLLC is a full-service accounting firm serving clients throughout the Okemos, Mich. area. Conway CPA & Associates PLLC’s expertise ranges from basic tax management and accounting services to more in-depth services such as tax preparation and planning, financial statements and financial planning. MAYBERRY HOMES CHOSEN AS “BUILDING PARTNER OF THE YEAR” BY HOMES FOR OUR TROOPS Homes for Our Troops, a national non-profit organization dedicated to restoring freedom and independence through the gift of a specially adapted home, honored local home builder, Mayberry Homes, as its Building Partner of the Year at the International Builder’s Show in Las Vegas.

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“The entire Mayberry Team is humbled by this award. For the sacrifice of our service men and women across this country, we did this out of gratitude and respect. It was an honor to participate in such a worthwhile cause,” said Karen Schroeder, Vice President of Mayberry Homes. Mayberry Homes built a new, specially adapted home to accommodate the severe injuries SGT Jolly sustained while serving his country. Read more about Aaron’s story at www.hfotusa.org/jolly.

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Credit Union members and non-members work with Nick to create lasting financial solutions that help provide a better return on life. CONSUMERS MUTUAL ANNOUNCES 2014 ELECTION OF BOARD OFFICERS Consumers Mutual Insurance of Michigan — a member-owned health plan and a new kind of insurer in which profits go directly back to members in the form of lower outof-pocket costs, expanded benefits, quality improvement programs, and minimal annual increases in premiums -- has announced the 2014 election of Board of Director officers: Robin Reynolds, Chairperson of the Board, has served as the Executive Director of the Ingham Health Plan Corporation since 2006; Bruce Bragg, Vice Chairperson for Consumers Mutual, served for 30 years as the Director of the Ingham County Health Department; Joan Moiles, Treasurer, joined the board in June 2012; Vice Treasurer Bruce Miller has served as Executive Director of Northern Health Plan & TENCON Health Plans since 2004; Jan Hudson, Board Secretary, has been a senior policy analyst for the Michigan League for Public Policy (MLPP) since 2003. For more information, consumersmutual.org.

visit

www.

HILLARY JOINS BURCHAM HILLS’ BOARD

Burcham Hills is a continuum of care retirement community providing quality retirement living in its Resident Center, and short-term rehabilitation and skilled nursing care in its Center for Health & Rehabilitation. A not-for-profit community, Burcham Hills was founded in 1974 in East Lansing and offers the most flexible range of senior housing options on a 46 acre campus and the highest quality standards in retirement living. MANER COSTERISAN ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEMBER Maner Costerisan is pleased to announce Timothy H. Adams, CPA, ABV has been named a member of the firm’s Board of Directors effective January 1, 2014. Adams joined Maner Costerisan in 1999 after the firm merged with his former firm, Henderson, Miller & Robbins, P.C. He currently serves as a principal of the firm and Adams is head of the tax department. Adams is also a member of the Manufacturing and Distribution Solutions Committee, Closely Held Committee, and is the leader of the firm’s business valuation practice. For more information, manercpa.com.

visit

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Charles (Chuck) Hillary of Hillary Lyons Associates, a fund development and philanthropy consultation firm, has been appointed to the Board of Trustees of Burcham Hills Retirement Community.

NEW SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR JOINS IXN TEAM AT A.J. BOGGS

Hillary spent 15 years as vice president of development for Ingham Medical Center and president of Michigan Capital Healthcare Foundation before joining Hillary Lyons Associates in 1995, where he later became president and owner.

Kelley is joining A.J. Boggs’ IXN division as a Systems Administrator. Kelley received his bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University in Computer Kelley Information Systems and has been serving our country in the US Army Reserves.

A.J. Boggs & Company is pleased to welcome Andrew Kelley to our IXN Team

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For more info visit www.ajboggs.com. YMCA OF LANSING ADDS NEW COMMUNICATIONS AND EVENTS DIRECTOR The YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing has named Anne Brand Communications and Events Director, a new position for the organization. Brand has been with the Y since October 2012, in the role of Assistant to the President/ Special Projects Manager. She has 20 years of experience in corporate communications, community relations and strategic marketing. As the Y’s Communications and Events Director, Brand will be responsible for developing and coordinating efforts to enhance the presence of the YMCA in the community through communications, events, media relations and community development initiatives for the Metro Office and all six branch locations. Brand joined the Y after serving as Marketing Coordinator for Lansing Community College for 10 years. Prior to LCC, she held corporate communications positions with both Accident Fund Company and Citizens Insurance Company of America. Brand holds a B.A. in journalism from Michigan State University. VETERAN MARKETING EXEC JOINS PACE AS ACCOUNT MANAGER Dena Vatalaro has joined Lansing-based Pace Marketing and Communications Inc. as an account manager. In her new position, Vatalaro manages the communication and operations between the agency and clients, including organizing meetings, developing Vatalaro creative briefs and scheduling and overseeing projects. For more information, visit ThisIsPace.com.

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Part of the CBRE afﬁliate network

G R E AT E R L A N S I N G B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY Part of the CBRE affiliate network

APRIL 2014