GLBM December 2017 by M3 Group Publications

DECEMBER 2017

SUCCESSION

PLANNING Essential for Any Business IN THIS ISSUE • Area Rotary clubs’ Weekend Survival Kits help keep hungry children fed • Lansing 5:01 helps interns, young professionals find work-life balance • Board of Water & Light plans for cleaner energy solutions within Greater Lansing

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DECEMBER 2017 ON THE COVER Board of Water & Light plans for cleaner energy solutions within Greater Lansing...................................8 Area Rotary clubs’ Weekend Survival Kits help keep hungry children fed...................................................... 10 Lansing 5:01 helps interns, young professionals find work-life balance.......................................... 14 Succession Planning: Essential for Any Business............... 18

NEWS Eyde company plans a new horizon for Oliver Towers..................................................................6

DECEMBER 2017

18 FEATURES Commentary.................................................................................................................................................. 4 If There'sTrouble Brewing, It's Best to Know the Law........................................................... 12 Visual Breakdown..................................................................................................................................... 16 Behind the Scenes.................................................................................................................................... 22 Economy........................................................................................................................................................ 24 Business Calendar.................................................................................................................................... 26

SUCCESSION

PLANNING

Greater Lansing at a Glance................................................................................................................ 28 Notable News............................................................................................................................................. 30

Essential for Any Business IN THIS ISSUE • Area Rotary clubs’ Weekend Survival Kits help keep hungry children fed • Lansing 5:01 helps interns, young professionals find work-life balance • Board of Water & Light plans for cleaner energy solutions within Greater Lansing

Cover photography by Mary Gajda

Greater Lansing Business Monthly | Volume 30, Issue 12

group

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

Subscriptions: Subscriptions are available at $22 per year for postage and handling or $38 for two years. Call (517) 203-0123 or visit lansingbusinessnews.com to subscribe. 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 © 2016 The Greater Lansing Business Monthly, Inc. All rights reserved. Editorial Office: 614 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933 lansingbusinessnews.com 2

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

DECEMBER 2017

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COMMENTARY

Publisher: Tiffany Dowling tiffany@m3group.biz Sales Manager: Jennifer Hodges jhodges@m3group.biz Editor: Kelly Mazurkiewicz kelly@m3group.biz

WHY NOT

LANSING?

Media Manager: Jill Bailey Account Managers: Austin Ashley Megan Fleming Manny Garcia Communications Director: Ami Iceman-Haueter Art Director: Mark Warner Publication Designer: Heather Thielking Graphic Designers: Angela Carlone Kerry Hidlay Photographer: Mary Gajda Web Manager: Skylar Kohagen Event Calendar Manager: Jaime Hardesty

GLBM Editorial Board: April Clobes — President and CEO, MSU Federal Credit Union Calvin Jones — Government Relations Director, Lansing Board of Water & Light Lisa Parker — Director of Alumni Career and Business Services, Michigan State University Alumni Association Deb Muchmore — Partner, Kandler Reed Khoury & Muchmore Tom Ruis — Vice President, Fifth Third Bank

The Lansing region is where I love to live, work and play. People say this all the time, but I really mean it. Although every place has its “faults,” I would be the first to stand up for our region – no matter what. I definitely have pride in our community for being just the way it is. In fact, I had an opportunity to review some historical photos of Lansing recently, and it’s remarkable to see the amount of growth and economic development that has happened. But, a region – just like individuals – can always stand for some improvement. We have to be willing to better both ourselves and the community in which we reside. It’s easier to sit back and wait for someone else to do something, but we must build on the momentum before us; there’s more to do. Downtown Lansing deserves more shopping and bustling residents. For instance, why don't we have an urban grocery store? It's time to ask the question: Why not Lansing? If we don’t believe we’re worth the investment, who will? I’ve always felt that Lansing has a self-esteem issue. We need to focus on creating positive word-of-mouth and help make change where necessary. We can start a movement by showing retailers we are anxious and ready for them to open right here, right now. We can build a community that benefits our economy, celebrates our diversity and inspires exciting growth. I’m asking for local companies to support this endeavor by participating in the conversation on what our region should stand for. I would love to see individuals who care about the trajectory of our region join me in letting retailers know we’re ready for investment at a petition started at change.org. An opportunity to invest in yourself is discussed in this month’s issue. Take the time to consider succession planning when you’re in business. Whether you’re an owner or someone in an executive position, there will always be more to think about and do while the time for retirement seems far away. After all, you’re still in creation mode and not slowing down – not yet. It isn’t easy to consider what will happen in 15 to 20 years. Right now, I’m still geared up for the many opportunities out there for me to tackle and how I can play a role in helping our community grow and prosper.

Doug Klein — Executive Director, Mason Area Chamber of Commerce Mark Hooper — Partner, Andrews Hooper Pavlik Diontrae Hayes — Supervisor Charter Township of Lansing Tiffany Dowling | Publisher

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

DECEMBER 2017

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External view renderings of the Oliver Towers project, courtesy of the Eyde Company.

EYDE COMPANY PLANS A NEW HORIZON FOR

OLIVER TOWERS BY OMAR SOFRADZIJA

Most people may see a high-rise eyesore when looking at downtown Lansing’s vacant Oliver Towers, but the Eyde family saw something more: potential and rebirth. “I think what we saw was something that could have been, or should have been, and will be an asset to the city that had been sitting [around] majorly unused,” said Mark Clouse, chief financial officer and general counsel for the Eyde Company, of the eight-story building at 310 N. Seymour Ave. “And we thought that there needed to be a reuse of that building." 6

The family-run Eyde Company (Eyde) plans to invest $8 million to rehabilitate the former senior-citizen housing complex — damaged and left largely abandoned since 2000 due to a fire — into a hip, modern host of micro-style apartments with first-floor retail space, adding a contemporary, European-style option for downtown residents. “This project will transform a blighted, burned out building in the heart of our downtown into a new residential development,” outgoing Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero said in a prepared

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statement. “With its proximity to the campus of Lansing Community College and the state Capitol, Oliver Towers will be an asset that brings people downtown to live, work and play.” It’s not the first time the Eyde family has looked to restore a downtown landmark. The former Knapp’s department store building was renovated into the Knapp’s Centre, which now houses the Eyde Company’s headquarters and fellow tenants. The Eyde family also has plans for the former Lansing State Journal building.

NEWS

“[Knapp’s] was obviously a building where many people thought the wrecking ball should have been the next step … we thought that wasn’t the right step to take. Where it takes more time and energy and, certainly, the cooperation of many people and many divisions of the government — sometimes it’s much better off to reuse and restore rather than tear down,” Clouse said. So when it came to Oliver Towers, “We saw that building as an opportunity,” Clouse said. “It certainly isn’t old enough to be historic, but it is old enough to have some history in the city, and we also think there is a shortage of Class A, residential spaces downtown. We also think there is a need for smaller units for young professionals who can afford to live there, want to live there and [want to] be active in downtown Lansing."

External view renderings of the Oliver Towers project, courtesy of the Eyde Company.

Many of the project’s 103 studio and onebedroom units will fit within existing unit footprints 400-500 square feet, notably smaller than the 1,200-1,500 square feet that similar classes of apartments have been sized to in recent years. But they will be fitted out in firstclass style, with full kitchens and in-apartment laundry units. Exact rent ranges are pending. Clouse said, “We believe that the city of Lansing — as well as other, larger downtown areas — are moving toward smaller units. Nick [Eyde, a company principal], who worked directly on this project in the beginning, reached out to people that he met while he was in Europe. So, we had an architectural firm from Italy look at this and help us design small units that obviously they’ve used and have lived in for much longer than we have. And it helped us design the units in such a way to be efficient, comfortable and still very elegant and, for lack of a better word, cool.” Karl Dorshimer, director of business development for the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP), said such micro-style units may be new to Lansing but are “popular in downtown areas [elsewhere] because you spend a lot of your time in the downtown doing other things, being outside and going to public spaces and parks and restaurants, visiting friends and others … They’re comfortable, but they’re cozy.” While millennials are a key demographic, the apartments are expected to have broader appeal. “It’s a wide range of people,” Dorshimer said. “When you look at the demographics, there’s a lot of households in the area that really have one or two people in them, and so the potential market is very broad. It’s not just for young folks. I think a lot of folks would be interested

Internal view renderings of the Oliver Towers project, courtesy of the Eyde Company.

in it, especially empty-nesters, single folks, people new to the area coming in for a particular reason and students.” The hope is such a housing complex could help evolve the nature of downtown into more of an around-the-clock community. In turn, that could help boost current merchants and bring in new ones. “It will help existing businesses and it will help a lot,” Dorshimer said. “These folks, they won’t spend that much time in their apartments … they’ll be spending a lot of time — a lot more than the traditional apartment or suburban house — they’re going to be out and about. They want to be downtown. They like the amenities that are downtown. The market will respond.” “So, ultimately, you get enough people living downtown, you’ll have a lot more business offerings,” Dorshimer said. “Everybody’s been [asking], ‘Why can’t we get a grocery store downtown?’ We just don’t have the demand, and there’s a lot of competition, but the more people that live downtown, the more demand there will be.”

Clouse said projects can’t work without teamwork. “A project like this doesn’t happen solely because of the developer,” Clouse said, noting the assistance of Lansing, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and civic agencies that are helping Eyde fund brownfield-related costs like asbestos removal and the cleanup of mold and water damage, via various financial incentives. Eyde hopes to have Oliver Towers ready for renters by the end of 2018 or early 2019. “To do it the right way sometimes takes a little longer than what we really want, but we have to recognize we want a good product when we’re done,” Clouse said. In the meantime, as plans for Oliver Towers comes together, the Eyde family will look for more diamonds in the rough around the city’s center. Omar Sofradzija is an adjunct journalism instructor at Michigan State University. Prior to that, he was a reporter, columnist and editor at the Las Vegas (Nev.) Review-Journal and the Peoria (Ill.) Journal Star newspapers. L

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Photo by Mark Warner

CLEANER ENERGY SOLUTIONS COME TO THE LANSING AREA BY KALYNNE MCINTYRE

The Lansing Board of Water & Light (BWL) has officially declared it will no longer burn fossil fuels by December 2025 at its coal-fired Erickson Generating Station. The agreement also enforces the BWL’s previously announced plans to retire the plant by December 2020, as well as committing to adding at least 106 megawatts of new solar and wind energy generation by Dec. 31, 2020. Beyond adding alternative energy generators, the BWL is committed to several clean-energy investments under a settlement agreement with the Sierra Club; they are required to meet a combined renewable energy efficiency goal of 8

30 percent of their total retail sales by Dec. 31, 2020, and 35 percent by Dec. 31, 2025. Per the agreement, the BWL will put $300,000 toward creating a sustainability program that will “promote energy waste reduction or pollution prevention in the city of Lansing and its surrounding community.” “[This] announcement is a positive step toward prioritizing Michigan’s clean air and water, as well as protecting public health in the Lansing area. We have an opportunity now to avoid environmental and health risks in a way we did not have when coal-burning power was the only option,” said Regina Strong, director

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DECEMBER 2017

of Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal Campaign in Michigan. “Over the past five years, we have seen large-scale solar and wind outperform coal, and now we are seeing renewable energy become even more competitive. We are pleased to reach this agreement with the BWL, which will help meet Mayor Virg Bernero’s commitment to climate action consistent with the Paris Climate Accord. This will go a long way in moving Lansing area residents toward the clean energy future they deserve, one that puts public health first.” And it seems that Lansing residents are more than ready for a clean energy solution. The

NEWS

Sierra Club conducted a 400-person poll of registered voters in Lansing, East Lansing and Lansing Township in May 2016, asking participants how they felt about renewable energy and energy efficiency. Overall, the poll results showed voters were in high favor of both of those initiatives, voting 75 percent in “high favor” for energy efficiency, and 76 percent in “high favor” for renewable energy efforts. The Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of communities, protect wildlife and preserve the remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying and legal action.

of Eaton County. Besides creating solar power, the project is also estimated to create more than 150 temporary full-time construction positions, translating to an estimated $5 million in wages. The project is expected to generate 45,000 megawatt hours of solar power annually — enough to power more than 3,300 homes. The amount of clean energy the project will produce will also help to offset 31,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide from the environment. By summer 2018, the BWL's customers will receive power generated from the solar array, through a purchase agreement between groSolar and the BWL.

In addition to these clean energy efforts, the BWL has partnered with groSolar — a national solar power development, engineering, procurement and construction firm — to build the state’s second largest utility-scale project. First announced in December 2015, the project had been delayed due to the original site being deemed “unsuitable” for the project.

“This solar energy project expands and diversifies our renewable energy portfolio for our customers,” said General Manager Richard Peffley. “Solar energy projects like this will feed directly into the BWL’s distribution system and supply power during the summer peak-demand period. We’re proud to be a leader in renewable energy. We were the first utility in Michigan to develop a renewable portfolio standard.”

The project will be located near the corner of Sundance and Guinea roads in Delta Township

With the largest municipally-owned Cedar Street solar array, the BWL continues to be the

leader in providing Lansing customers with clean, green, renewable power sources and energy saving programs. Besides solar power, the BWL also provides wind energy sourced from a wind park in Ithaca, Mich. Other energy sources include landfill gas energy from Granger waste facilities and hydroelectric power. As outlined in the 2016 Strategic Plan, the BWL is committed to providing a clean energy future for the Lansing region through a mix of renewable energy, energy efficiency and new highly efficient natural gas generation. All of these things combined will replace the BWL’s coal-based generation and will continue to sustain a low cost, eco-friendly portfolio. By closing coal plants and expanding its clean energy portfolio, the BWL estimates a reduction of 80 percent in its greenhouse gas emissions by 2020. Kalynne McIntyre is a blogger and marketer, currently living in Washington, D.C. She specializes in creative storytelling and digital marketing. More of her work can be found at kalynne.mcintyre.com.

E Y D E C O M PA N Y 517-351-2480

eyde.com

KNAPP’S APARTMENTS View all of our available properties at eyde.com or call us at 517-351-2480.

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Julie Brixie (left), Carrie Hindmon (right), Peggy Fankhauser and other volunteers helping package Weekend Survival Kits

WHAT IS THE WEEKEND SURVIVAL KIT PROGRAM? A precursor to the Weekend Survival Kits began in 2009 when Dave Muhleck, owner of Allegra Marketing | Print | Mail from the Haslett-Okemos Rotary Club, was contacted by the Greater Lansing Food Bank about starting a project to feed hungry, local children. He brought the idea to the club and, during its first year, the program supported 229 students. The kits are distributed to children who are eligible for free or reduced-cost lunches. “Dave knew this would be a huge undertaking but knew our club would do everything it could to feed area children,” said Haslett-Okemos Rotary Club member Julie Brixie. “It has become the most popular service project our club has undertaken because of its obvious importance.” In 2012, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit group, the Many Hands Foundation, was founded by Jeff D. Gorsline, the executive director of the Weekend Survival Kits program. The new organization took over and expanded the feeding program, becoming its fiduciary agent in 2013. They oversee the program’s food ordering, packing sessions and deliveries in coordination with the Feeding America Network and the Greater Lansing Food Bank. Gorsline was assisted in expanding the program, created in Haslett-Okemos by East Lansing Rotarian John Saltzgaber.

Photo provided

WEEKEND

SURVIVAL KITS Keeping hungry children fed BY TERESA J. FRITH

Most people in the Greater Lansing area probably don’t give a second thought to where their next meal is coming from, however, one out of five children in Michigan leave school on Friday worried about what they will eat during the weekend. Three Rotary clubs in the area have banded together to help keep affected children in Ingham and Clinton counties fed through the Weekend Survival Kits program.

“Children that go hungry on the weekend come to school on Monday – not ready to learn. Teachers and counselors report that it is well into the afternoon that the benefit of the regular free and reduced-cost lunch and breakfast programs can take effect,” said Katie Donovan of the East Lansing Rotary Club, one of the three participating clubs in the area, along with Haslett-Okemos and Williamston Sunrise Rotary clubs.

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As of 2017, more than 3,500 children have been provided food kits every other Friday during the school year. Fifty-four schools throughout 15 districts in Ingham, Eaton, Macomb and Clinton counties are served, including the cities of Dansville, DeWitt, East Lansing, Haslett, Holt, the Ingham Intermediate School District, Lansing, Mason, Okemos, Webberville and Williamston. The program is also scheduled to expand into Livingston and Wayne counties through a partnership with Delta Dental. VOLUNTEERS, LOCAL BUSINESSES HELP SUPPORT PROGRAM The program is supported by service clubs, including the Rotary clubs in East Lansing, Haslett-Okemos, Delta-Waverly and Williamston; Kiwanis Clubs in East Lansing, Okemos and Williamston; Mason Optimist Club; Kohl’s, the East Lansing Masonic Lodge #480; Okemos Community Church, St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Haslett, the Joe D. Pentecost Foundation, R.E. Olds Foundation; and the Optimist clubs. Local businesses, parent groups and area employers such as Delta Dental, Jackson National Life and the

NEWS

Michigan State University Federal Credit Union are also supporters. These groups assist in packing, assembling, distributing and donating to the program. You can see a packing session schedule at manyhandsmi.org/packing-sessions. “The support from area service clubs and others who are providing for the Weekend Survival Kits program is simply awesome,” said Gorsline. WHERE DOES WEEKEND SURVIVAL KITS FOOD COME FROM? The Weekend Survival Kits Program operates in conjunction with the Feeding America Network and local food banks, and is authorized to buy food items from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) food. The Rotary clubs of East Lansing, Haslett-Okemos and Williamston recently presented Weekend Survival Kits Inc. with a $16,500 grant to buy food for the kits. Each club gave $3,000, and the remainder came from Rotary Club District 6360.

friendly, nutritious food that requires little to no preparation, such as canned soup, vegetables and fruit, granola bars, single-serve cereal boxes or oatmeal packets, rice or boxed macaroni and cheese, raisins and crackers.

actually less costly and more consistent. Also, donated foods are sometimes expired or a product the children aren’t interested in eating and otherwise, they simply take more time to examine and sort.”

Additionally, special items are sometimes added. For example, PS Food Mart held a fundraiser to provide 5,000 Pop Tarts as a special treat for the children. It is possible for anyone to donate money to the program via the Many Hands Foundation’s website or by mailing a check to:

The Weekend Survival Kits program helps to feed thousands of children in the Greater Lansing area, and it continues to expand its numbers every year. For more information on the program or to donate, go to manyhandsmi.org.

WEEKEND SURVIVAL KITS 1288 W. Grand River Ave., Suite 400 Williamston, MI 48895 “Food donations are not accepted,” said Donavan. “That’s because buying the food is

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

CT NE I O

CON

Each kit costs $3.50 to $5.00, depending on the availability of USDA food or donated food at the local food bank. Each kit contains kid-

“DAVE KNEW THIS WOULD BE A HUGE UNDERTAKING BUT KNEW OUR CLUB WOULD DO EVERYTHING IT COULD TO FEED AREA CHILDREN”

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IF THERE’S FEATURE

TROUBLE BREWING,

IT’S BEST TO

KNOW THE LAW

BY MARK MEYER

Holidays mean party time, but do you really know what constitutes a drink? Many revelers do not. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, the amount of liquid in your container or vessel of choice – glass, can or bottle – does not necessarily match up to how much alcohol is actually in your drink. Diverse types of beer, wine

and malt liquor can have different amounts of alcohol content. For example, many light beers have almost as much alcohol as regular beer – about 85 percent as much. To clear up some of that confusion and to shed more light on an already conversational topic, the Institute for Food Laws and Regulations (IFLR) at Michigan State University has introduced a new, online-only

course that it hopes will attract craft brewers, winemakers and distillers across the state – and the world, for that matter. The new course – Wine, Beer and Spirits Laws and Regulations – begins with the start of the second semester on Jan. 8, 2018, and will examine the laws, regulations and policies that govern alcoholic beverages in the U.S. The emphasis is on federal laws,

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

DECEMBER 2017

FEATURE

specifically regulation by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau. According to IFLR Associate Director Melissa Card, the course will cover a range of topics including the industry’s primary regulators, the classification of beverages, the regulation of labeling and advertising, three-tier distribution systems, excise taxes and liability. Card went on to mention that the learning objectives of this course will enable students to: • Recognize the overarching themes of alcohol regulation in the U.S. • Understand the nature of the regulatory process as it pertains to alcoholic beverages • Identify agencies’ roles in the regulation of alcohol beverages • Understand the classification of alcohol beverages • Introduce the concepts of labeling and excise taxation, as applied to alcohol beverages • Explore the distribution and sale of alcohol beverages

Card hopes to attract food industry professionals, lawyers and regulators to the class. “One of the key takeaways from this class (for the students), in my opinion, will be the empowerment to make business decisions based on a thorough knowledge of the laws and regulations,” Card said. “We will show folks how to conduct proper research on topics – such as proper sanitary practices – without having to use outside counsel.” Card previously was an associate in the Food, Beverage & Hospitality and Litigation Practice Groups of Clark Hill’s Detroit law office. She assisted food manufacturers on regulatory food and beverage law issues by ensuring companies comply with various federal regulations, including the handling of food and beverage safety compliance assessment issues: product recalls; monitoring legislation affecting the regulation of foods and materials that come in contact with foods; responding to FDA draft rules and guidance; and interpreting the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), and various food safety and customs compliance regulations.

Card believes that most craft brewers, vintners and those involved in the distilling of spirits should ask themselves the following questions: • Do you know the laws and regulations that apply to product labeling? • Do you have someone on staff that does? • Wouldn’t it be nice to know where to go to find the correct information before making a decision that ultimately could cost you money or be ruled noncompliant? • Can you identify the federal agencies that regulate alcoholic beverages and their responsibilities? To learn more about IFLR, visit the website at canr.msu.edu/iflr/.

Mark Meyer is the former sports editor of the Lansing State Journal. He previously served as senior writer at Truscott Rossman and is currently employed at Michigan State University.

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Lansing 5:01 enjoys time at Cooley Law School Stadium

LANSING 5:01 Helps interns, young professionals find work-life balance BY TERESA J. FRITH

Imagine you are a college student ready to start your business career in some type of internship. In this exciting phase of your life, where do you turn for advice and assistance? According to Founder and Executive Director Chris Sell, that place is Lansing 5:01, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to attract talented young professionals into the Lansing area. Research and experience have shown Sell many college grads look for a suitable place to live that they can love, prior to searching for employment. Therefore, it’s vital to show these young professionals all the opportunities Lansing can offer potential employees for recreation, living, nightlife, cultural activities and entertainment. “I found out about Lansing 5:01 through my internship at Michigan State University Federal Credit Union,” said Jared Davis, one of the interns helped by the program. “It has 14

helped me network with many professionals in the Lansing area and has helped me develop professionally, as well as show me what a cool place Lansing is.”

respective communities. So, when I found out nothing like that existed in Lansing, I set out to change that.”

TODAY’S WORKERS WANT MORE THAN JUST A JOB According to Sell, having job satisfaction is only half the equation for millennials joining the workforce. He stressed that people today want to have a sense of place, and they prefer living in communities with a vibrant, urban core. “I started a new job at Michigan State University in 2013, where I worked with local employers to recruit talent for internships at local businesses,” said Sell. “Because of my previous experience working in university career services, I knew other regions throughout the state had programs connecting college interns to the live/work/play qualities of those

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

DECEMBER 2017

Lansing 5:01 prepping for urban kayaking

Lansing 5:01 at Bridgefest FEATURE

‘roll out the red carpet,’ and make sure they have a great first impression of the city.” Some of the ways Lansing 5:01 showcases the area are through events such as Bridgefest, which featured a concert, urban kayaking, food-truck rally, vendor expo and local artists. Another event that brought a lot of people in was Runway on the Runway, a fashion show held at the Capital Region International Airport. Each event drew people from 30 different colleges and universities, with some from outside of Michigan.

LANSING 5:01 SHOWCASES AREA AMENITIES

VARIETY OF SPECIAL EVENTS, SUPPORT DRAWS POTENTIAL WORKERS

In November 2015, Sell assembled a group passionate about their community to help fulfill the vision of creating programming for Lansing. Lansing 5:01 set out on its maiden voyage in June 2016.

Since starting in 2016, Lansing 5:01 has welcomed nearly 2,000 interns and young professionals to its events. According to Sell, 66 percent of the college interns who attended 5:01 programming in 2017 weren’t originally from the tri-county area.

Why 5:01? Lansing has many things to do and see after the workday ends at 5 p.m. Lansing 5:01 aims to introduce potential employees to local amenities such as recreational facilities, night-life opportunities and the types of living accommodations available. They also bring these young professionals together with community leaders through extraordinary events, as well as highlight cultural offerings like the thriving arts scene, various social events, opportunities for entrepreneurs, etc. “New technology, the ‘gig’ economy, talent preferences — these are all contributing factors to the emerging trends around better worklife balance in the workforce,” said Sell. “It’s important that Lansing positions itself as a community leader in that space, if it is to be successful in attracting and retaining talent.” LANSING 5:01 PARTNERS WITH LOCAL BUSINESSES Businesses want to do more than just hire someone; they want their employees to love where they live and play when they are not at work. Having this kind of balance makes happier employees, and a happier employee makes a better worker. Lansing 5:01 currently partners with more than 20 sponsors in the Lansing area. “Lansing 5:01 wouldn’t exist without the support of local employer partners,” stressed Sell. “We are very grateful to count many of the region’s larger companies and organizations as sponsors. In turn, we provide value-added programming for employers’ interns and young professionals to ensure they have a great experience in the Lansing region.”

“The events this past summer might have been their very first experience with our community,” said Sell. “It’s really important we collectively

“I went to a fashion show at the Lansing airport called Runway on the Runway. I didn’t even know Lansing had an airport until the event,” said Davis. “I also got to participate in my first Silent Disco, took a tour of Old Town and saw how cool of a neighborhood it is. Many of the events have even had speakers who give great professional advice.” All in all, Lansing 5:01 encourages, supports and introduces potential employees and new residents to all the Lansing area has to offer for its residents and workers. For more information on Lansing 5:01, visit lansing501.com.

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VISUAL BREAKDOWN

All in the Family F A M I LY- B A S E D C O M P A N I E S

Businesses that are family-owned, or started out as such, have been pivotal to the development of federal, state and local economies throughout U.S. history. In fact, the idea of “keeping it in the family,” regarding enterprise, has been alive in human history in a variety of shapes and sizes — from merchants and farmers to the interconnected, industrial giants of today.

There’s no set definition for family-owned enterprises, but they typically share one or more traits ILY A SINGLE FAMAS T LE CONTROLS AT

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REPRESENTA Y TIO AVERAGING N

AVERAGE

FAMILY OWNERSHIP OF A

SUCCESSFUL CORE BUSINESS IS

YEARS

survive into a

31%

third generation

While it’s tempting to equate family-owned affairs with the word “small,” their impact is anything but

As an example, the Walton family controls just under

51% LARGEST BUSINESS

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are family-controlled and represent the full spectrum of American companies, from small business to major corporations 16

NT F

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

NET WORTH OF family business owners

b crea

tion

will be as high as

$10.4 TRILLION

DECEMBER 2017

in terms of revenue with an annual turnover of $476.3 BILLION and a total of 2.3 MILLION employees as the world's largest retailer

VISUAL BREAKDOWN

Women are leading the charge in continuing their family legacies

A GROWING

24%

From 2011-2016, WOMAN-OWNED family businesses increased by

of family businesses are led by a WOMAN CEO OR PRESIDENT

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1.2 MILLION

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BUSINESS LEADERSHIP

Families are often confident in how they stack up to their non-family-based competitors

64%,

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THEY ARE MORE

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CULTURE OF VALUES, AND

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Family businesses connect with local talent and causes THE AVERAGE ANNUAL WORKFORCE TURNOVER

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THE AVERAGE AMOUNT DONATED BY A FAMILY BUSINESS ANNUALLY IS

$50,000

Compiled by Kristopher Johnson | Graphics by Heather Thielking | Sources: familybusinesscenter.com, pwc.com & statisticbrain.com L

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Glen Granger (right), Granger President and CEO and Tom Owens, Project Supervisor review plans for a construction site Photo by Erika Hodges

SUCCESSION PLANNING Essential for Any Business BY KALYNNE MCINTYRE, ADAM LANSDELL

Every business owner knows that, eventually, they’ll have to take a step back from running their company. Whether that means selling, training a replacement or staying on in a consultant role, business owners need to be prepared for that day. Having a succession plan in place is necessary for any business, no matter the industry or age of the owner. In some cases, the owner may not even be looking to retire; they may just be looking for a new professional career. “I find that the most common reason for succession planning is that a business owner is tired, burnt out and ready to move on to something else,” said Jessica Starks, president and CEO of Transworld Business Advisors of Lansing. “Once that happens, sometimes you start to see revenue in the business decline, which means overall profitability is declining, too. So, 18

the sooner owners start planning their exit, the better. That way, they can continue to grow or maintain the business they’ve worked so hard for.” According to a 2015 survey conducted by CNBC and the Financial Planning Association, 78 percent of small-business owners reported wanting to sell to fund their retirements. However, less than 30 percent of them reported having a proper succession plan. Statistics surrounding family-business success throughout future generations of families, according to The Family Firm Institute, are slightly surprising: roughly 40 percent of family businesses survive into the second generation; after that, an estimated 12 percent make it to the third generation; only 3 percent live on to the

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fourth generation or beyond. Much of this failure can be attributed to a lack of proper, future planning. STAYING WITHIN THE FAMILY When choosing a family member as a successor, putting the business first is a must. Regardless of expectations or hopes, choosing someone who will excel and has a real passion for the business is important. Family members often have knowledge that an outsider wouldn’t and are typically familiar with processes and culture. However, you don’t want your chosen future leader to feel as though they must take over — it should be a choice, not a duty. “When you’re gifting or giving a business to a family member, sometimes it’s not the gift that

COVER

you think it is,” said Starks. “Instead, sometimes, it’s a liability or an obligation. There are plenty of second-generation business owners who are burnt out and only doing this for their family, not themselves.” When transitioning the business internally, it’s helpful to work with an attorney to put certain contingencies in place. A buy-sell agreement, for example, protects a business should any unforeseen circumstances arise; if an owner suddenly passes away, retires, falls ill or goes through a divorce, the agreement acts as a “premarital agreement,” which sets the terms and price for an official buyout, thereby protecting everyone’s best interests. LOOKING FOR AN OUTSIDE PARTY If there isn’t a family member that’s interested, you may want to consider an employee. While loyalty might be a question, if there’s someone on your staff that has been with you for a long time, there may be an opportunity to keep the business with someone you know. You could also consider retaining family ownership while allowing that employee to run the business.

IF THERE’S NO FAMILY MEMBER OR EMPLOYEE INTERESTED IN TAKING OVER, THEN SELLING MIGHT BE A GOOD OPTION. If there’s no family member or employee interested in taking over, then selling might be a good option. “If you don’t have a person that’s interested in taking over, then marketing the business is always a possibility,” said Starks.

of family businesses, succession either happens or it doesn’t. It can boil down to the next-in-line family member lacking the desire to continue the path of those before them or opting to forge their own path.

“However, the key to selling the business is making sure everyone feels safe. You want to make sure you market it confidentially. You don’t want the public to know, because then revenue could suffer, which could spook your vendors and employees,” said Starks. “In order to make everyone feel secure in the business decisions you’re making, keep those conversations private.”

The Lansing-based organization, Granger Construction, is a prime example of the strength of succession, but changes in leadership weren’t the result of a master plan. In fact, their current President and CEO Glenn Granger is a third-generation member, but succession isn’t something they consciously sought or devised over time, nor is it moving forward.

SUCCESSION ISN’T ALWAYS ASSUMED

Glenn is the successor of his father, Alton Granger, who now serves as a chairman. Glenn’s father, uncles and grandfather originally formed Granger in 1959 and in 1991 the organization was divided into two organizations, which

Succession planning may be in the cards for most businesses, but evolution isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept. In many instances, specifically in terms

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we now know as Granger Construction and Granger Waste Management. Alton became the key shareholder, but Glenn was soon to follow, becoming a shareholder and member of leadership in 1998. “It’s been a somewhat steady transition. I was appointed president in the year 2000; the transition of responsibilities and growing into the role allowed me to gradually take charge,” said Glenn. “My dad has reduced some of his responsibilities in the past few years and acts more so as a true chairman now.”

Jessica Starks, president and CEO of Transworld Business Advisors of Lansing Photo by Mary Gajda

The organization is proud to be family-owned, and its overarching decisions are retained by its members. The Grangers understand that exterior influences and perspectives are important when maintaining a healthy business, thus an advisory board is in place to provide insight while a governing body of select family and key personnel will strategize, discuss development and give the final say. “For our benefit, [being a family-owned business] allows us to have cleaner decisionmaking processes. Our governance is such that we can do some quick decision-making, and

our process allows us to manage our business in a way that is a lot simpler,” said Glenn. “We have a board of advisors that’s there to help give us some outside ideas on different things in the works and infuse fresh ideas. Decisions still come to our family board, but the advisory board gives us some great advice.” Frankly, Granger doesn’t foresee another generational transition any time soon and aren’t planning for it, per se. When the time comes, they may reconvene, but in the meantime their current methods for organizing leadership and optioning those outside of the family to voice their opinions and concerns has proved favorable as the company continues to see growth. So far, 2017 has been a record year for the company in terms of volume of work produced and in terms of general sales. As the company continues to pursue new frontiers, such as those beyond the Greater Lansing region, they currently aren’t hindered by the thought of succession. “We haven’t gotten that far yet – the next generation is younger and hasn’t really shown

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COVER

where their interest levels might be. We’ll simply have to wait to see what is in store, but we’re comfortable with the arrangements we have for the foreseeable future,” said Glenn. Family businesses remain unique in their position, as a change in leadership based on generation is a symbolic passing of the torch in which an informal commitment to preserving and enhancing a legacy, family values and a moral obligation supersede all other duties that come along with their new position. LOOKING AHEAD While the term “succession planning” sounds very final, it’s not an all-or-nothing situation. It’s possible to create a future that successfully transfers business ownership to someone else without losing income, control or the opportunity to build on a legacy. The earlier a business owner maps out the transition process to a successor or new buyer, the more likely the succession plan will be successful for all parties, both financially and emotionally.

START EARLY When it comes to planning for the future, the sooner the better. It may take months or even years to find someone that you think is a good fit for your business. The more time you have to plan, the better off you’ll be.

ASK FOR ADVICE Talk with a financial advisor and find out what makes the most sense for you and your current situation. They’ll help you with the details making the succession process easier.

EVALUATE YOUR CURRENT STANDINGS Take a close look at your business. Meet with a financial advisor and discuss your business’s net worth, including revenues, balance sheet items, profitability and fixed assets. You want to know exactly where your business stands.

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CONSTANTLY CIRCLE BACK As times change, so should your plans. Make sure you’re constantly revisiting your long-term plan and continuing to have those conversations with the necessary people.

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BY SARAH SPOHN | PHOTO BY MARY GAJDA

JERRY CARPENTER

Vice President, Liskey’s Automotive LISKEY’S AUTOMOTIVE HAS BEEN AROUND SINCE 1960; WHAT COMES WITH BEING IN THE SAME COMMUNITY FOR OVER 57 YEARS? My dad bought the business in 1972 … and came back here and worked for George Liskey, for quite a few years. That’s where the name came from – the original owner, George Liskey. I kind of came into the scene about 1989. I graduated, went into the military for four years and did four years in the navy. At that point, we were in the middle of being bought out by the city of Lansing. Through condemnation laws, the city of Lansing bought our business for parking for the Lugnuts Stadium. We thought about moving our business, maybe out of town. The more we looked at our customer base — they didn’t necessarily live downtown, but they worked downtown. So, we thought it was quite essential to stay downtown and decided to move right across the street. We were right there on the other side of Larch Street, and we moved over to this location: an existing body shop. We approached the owner and he was interested in selling, so we purchased the building and had to buy a few houses for parking, and then tore the 22

houses down. The downtown area has always been very good to us, we appreciate that – it meant a lot to us. One of our big things was, ‘We stayed downtown to serve you.’ WHAT ARE SOME THINGS THAT HAVE REMAINED THE SAME THROUGHOUT THE WHOLE TIME THE COMPANY HAS BEEN OPERATING? I think, just our philosophy of business in taking care of a customer: looking at their car and repairing their car as if it were one of our own. We understand customers come here not because they want a new car, but because they want to maintain their car. Their car is a big investment and very vital to them. We fix it as if it were my grandmother or mother who would come in here. We want to make sure they’re safe; we’re not out here to oversell. DID THE CLOSING AND REPAVING OF MICHIGAN AVENUE AFFECT YOUR BUSINESS? I think that every little bit of growth in downtown Lansing, from the stadium district to the new apartments on the backside of the ballpark, have all been a huge enhancement to the downtown

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area, and it’s enhanced our business as well. Bringing people back downtown to live has been a huge part of our success. Michigan Avenue is a main corridor: a gateway between us and East Lansing and [it] connects us. I don’t know if it being rough hurt us; if anything, it helped us. In our business, the [bad] roads are good for our business. WHAT WAS IT LIKE TO GROW UP AS PART OF A FAMILY BUSINESS? We spent a lot of hours in here as children. We spent our evenings and our weekends here to help start the business and grow the business, as a family. Everybody partakes in helping the success of the business. It’s been rewarding being able to have my wife LeeAnn as part of our family now. The way we met is she hit a curb, came in here and needed car repair, and next thing you know, we’re going to the movies together. HOW MUCH OF THE COMPANY IS STILL A FAMILY BUSINESS NOW? It’s all family. My wife, my dad and myself. Now, my dad is very active in his farm, the Peacock Road Family Farm. Probably for ten years now,

BEHIND THE SCENES

he has kind of stepped back from this and I’ve been taking care of day-to-day business. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR DUTIES IN THAT DAY-TO-DAY ROLE? Everything, especially customer service … LeAnn really takes care of all the bookkeeping. Other than that, we both share the obligations of advertising, but I deal with customer service, customer relations, parts, techs, employees, etc. WHAT LESSONS HAVE YOU LEARNED BY OPERATING A SMALLER SCALE OPERATION VERSUS A GIANT CORPORATION OR FRANCHISE? I think being an independent, automotive repair shop is more personal. Our customers are more like family members to us than they are just some customers. We try to make that relationship or bond with our customers to ensure that when they come here, their car will be fixed at a decent, fair price, yet be safe and taken care of properly. We look at customers as part of our family. A lot of our business is referrals. We have been very fortunate to have a lot of customers — generational families that have come in for service. YOUR DAD, ED, IS PRETTY WELL-KNOWN IN THE AREA AND HAS BEEN GIVEN AWARDS AND ACCOLADES. WHAT IS IT LIKE TO HAVE THAT TO LOOK UP TO? Big shoes … he’s got some very big shoes to fill. He has definitely made a name for Liskey’s. It has been very rewarding. When we found out we were getting bought out from the city of Lansing, I was actually in the Navy. My dad sent me a letter — a three page, handwritten letter — letting me know … because there would be nothing more rewarding for him than to pass it on to the family and keep it in the family. So then I got out of service and came back and worked for dad. I started at the bottom, sweeping floors and taking out trash. You learn from the bottom up; it was quite an honor to be able to step in and work in a family business that was very-well established. WHAT DO YOU THINK SOME OF THE ADVANTAGES ARE OF WORKING IN A FAMILY BUSINESS? A little bit of freedom, being able to have that knowledge that you’re not given secondhand: You’re getting it right from the family. We all share the same ideas, the same thoughts, the same motivation and the same drive. WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE PARTS OF YOUR JOB? There’s a lot of reward when customers call you back to let you know how much of a difference and how much they were appreciative of our service. A lot of our business is doom and gloom.

We’re here fixing problems. They don’t come to us because they want to, they come to us because they have to. They have a problem; we become a problem solver. But those phone calls that you get from a customer who calls back to let you know they really appreciated your service, those are some of the most rewarding things. Of all the bad calls, it only takes one good call to make it all good. Normally you don’t hear the good, you hear the bad. But those calls you do get with a thank you, those go a long way. LISKEY’S HAS WON AWARDS IN THE CITY PULSE, TOP OF THE TOWN AWARDS FOR A COUPLE YEARS. WHAT DO THOSE AWARDS AND RECOGNITION MEAN TO YOUR COMPANY WHEN YOU RECEIVE THOSE? They mean a lot. That means we are being recognized out in the public. You strive to do your best, be profitable and take care of your employees, your building, your customers. But when you do get some of those rewards, it’s very honorable being recognized that you are doing something right, and people do notice and it’s getting mentioned. Those do mean a lot.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR LISKEY’S? Automobiles are changing fairly rapidly. With so many makes, models, electronics and types of information out there, it has become challenging for independent repair shops to stay profitable. That is a little bit of a concern. We’ve always felt ourselves as an equal to the dealer, if not better, because we’re more personal with our customers; but the struggles surrounding information on new cars is a concern. I think it’s a concern within the entire industry. Do we go back to where we’re more specialized in what we do in repair shops? We’ve tried to take whatever comes in our parking lot. At times, it can be challenging. A dealer only works on a Ford or a GM or a Toyota, so they’re fairly efficient at it. We’re going to work on whatever you’re driving, and the information and electronics have been coming at us really hard in the last four or five years. The information to repair those cars has become costly to get a hold of. So, as an independent, automotive repair facility, there have been some tough times. But we still feel there is a niche there for us, and we’re staying positive and keep plugging away. This conversation with Jerry Carpenter has been edited for space and clarity.

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EXTERNALITIES BY MORDECHAI E. KREININ, UNIVERSITY DISTINGUISHED PROFESSOR (EMERITUS), MSU

While price control and price ceilings interfere with the functioning of the market and are often ineffective — as was the case during the Nixon administration — the government does, at times, attempt to make the markets function more effectively: namely, improve the workings of markets. Such cases are known as externalities. Positive externalities, or external benefits are cases where the benefits to society from a good or service exceed the benefits to individual consumers. Such goods or services would be undersupplied by the market. An often cited example is education and training. Its benefits 24

to the consumers take the form of higher wages once they enter the labor force. But beyond that, society benefits from having an educated and informed public, hence government subsidies to education are justified to increase supply. Public goods are an extreme form of such externality. These are goods and services that are consumed collectively. They have two features: a) one person’s use of the good does not prevent others from using it, and b) it is not possible for one person to exclude another person who does not pay from using it. Examples are a public park or national defense; these have to be completely financed by the local or national government.

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On the other side of the ledger, there are external costs or negative externalities. These are cases where the cost to society of producing a good or a service exceed the cost to individual firms. The prime example is environmental pollution generated in the production process. Such goods would be oversupplied by the private sector and a tax is justified to control supply. The tax would force firms to consider the negative externality as part of their production costs and would thereby lower the oversupply. A proposal that created heated debate is known as a “market for pollution rights.” The

ECONOMY

Environmental Protection Agency would set a fixed limit to the amount of each pollutant allowed into the atmosphere. Combined with the demand by firms to pollute, this would set a market price for each unit of pollutant, and these can be bought and sold between firms on the market. The main outcome would be a maximum quantity of pollutants allowed, used by the firms that find pollution most useful to their production process. Appendix: The Marginal Way of Thinking While our column did not go into true marginal analysis, readers may encounter the concept in other contexts especially since the analysis of the firm is based on it. So, it is prudent to explain in this appendix. It is useful to think of the firm as making marginal decisions. The term marginal is used to describe additional or incremental values. It was encountered in the context of utility derived by the consumer: “Marginal satisfaction” is the incremental satisfaction obtained from consuming an additional unit of the product.

And it applies equally to positive or negative increments — an added or a subtracted unit. Knowing or not, we all make marginal decisions in our daily lives. A student enrolled in four courses and considering taking a fifth asks herself, “What are the extra (marginal) costs, in time and money, of taking the fifth course, and how do they compare to the extra (marginal) benefits from the course, in terms of knowledge gained or graduation requirements?” Only if the marginal benefits exceed the marginal cost would she sign up for the fifth course. A comparison between the marginal costs and the marginal benefits is inherent in such a decision. Our Daily life is full of marginal decisions, or decisions at the margin. And these determinations operate in reverse. Should the student drop one of her five courses? She makes the decision by comparing the marginal saving in time and money with the marginal loss of benefits in terms of knowledge, information or progress toward a degree. Only if the marginal savings exceed the marginal loss would she proceed with the cut.

In a similar way, the firm makes marginal decisions. Starting from a certain scale of operations, the firm may ask, “Should I hire one additional (marginal) worker? Such a decision involves incremental costs of paying for the new worker; but it yields additional revenue from selling the extra product. The firm would proceed only if the added revenue from the added output exceeded the added cost of the worker. Alternatively, the firm may ask the question in reverse, “Should I lay off one of my workers and allow an output-drop?” In doing so, it would save the wages of one worker, but would also lose the proceeds from the sales. Only if the marginal savings exceed the marginal loss (from reduced sales) would she proceed with the cut. Mordechai Kreinin is a University Distinguished Professor of Economics, emeritus at Michigan State University and past President of the International Trade and Finance Association. He is the author of about 200 articles and books about economics, including the widely used text, International Economics. He can be reached at kreinin@msu.edu or by cell phone at (517) 488-4837

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BUSINESS CALENDAR

DECEMBER 2017 DECEMBER 4

DECEMBER 7

DROP-IN JOB HELP, LANSING Stop by the South Lansing Library for help with applications, resumes or getting started in your job search. Drop in any Monday from 1-3 p.m. for personalized assistance. Visit cadl.org for more information.

EMPLOYEE MARIJUANA USE & EMPLOYER RIGHTS, LANSING Many employers are uncertain when it comes to addressing employee use of medical and recreational marijuana. Michigan voters may be considering the legalization of recreational marijuana use in the November 2018 ballot proposal, and courts outside of Michigan are beginning to recognize employee rights to recreational and medical marijuana use. This 60-minute webinar will help employers better understand Michigan’s medical marijuana laws and how to respond in the wake of evolving state law and a changing sense of public sensibilities about marijuana use. This webinar is from 10-11 a.m. and is $75 for Michigan Chamber members and $95 for non-members. Visit michamber.com to learn more and to register today.

ANNUAL DIVERSITY HOLIDAY MIXER, LANSING The Lansing Mosaic & Michigan Premier Events, The Greater Lansing Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Lansing Black Chamber of Commerce invite all to celebrate the holidays, diversity, leadership and entrepreneurship at their annual holiday mixer. Enjoy complimentary hors d'oeuvres, desserts, drinks and music with a diverse group of local Lansing leaders, representatives, professionals and entrepreneurs. Network, celebrate and learn more about Lansing’s upcoming events in 2018. Visit eventbrite.com to register.

DECEMBER 5 DOWNTOWN BUSINESS HUDDLE, LANSING Join fellow downtown business professionals to network at Midtown Brewing Company at 8 a.m. Learn what’s happening downtown as you enjoy the atmosphere of Midtown Brewing. Visit downtownlansing.org for more information.

DECEMBER 5 MICHIGAN SALES & USE TAX, LANSING This popular seminar will cover the basic principles of both the sales and use tax, compliance considerations, expanded coverage of sales and use tax, the Audit Standards for Field Audits and a detailed discussion of taxpayers’ appeal rights. New guidance in the form of Revenue Administrative Bulletins and Letter Rulings will also be covered. Additionally, since the sales tax or use tax is applied differently, depending on what industry the taxpayer is in, this seminar will define the basic industry groups and then discuss the specific application to each industry. This seminar is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. — $270 for Michigan Chamber members and $295 for non-members. Register for this event and find more information by visiting michamber.com.

DECEMBER 5 REAL ESTATE INVESTING WEBINAR, LANSING If you have an interest in investing in real estate, but don’t know where to start – this free webinar is the perfect place. Network with like-minded individuals and learn investment strategies such as fix and flip, buy and hold, short sale, foreclosures and multi-family. This webinar will also explain how to pay off a house in 10 years or less and how real estate investors fund deals without their own money or credit. RSVP now by visiting eventbrite.com. 26

DECEMBER 7

DECEMBER 11 PERSONALIZED TECH HELP, FOSTER Get one-one-one help with computer basics, internet basics and other topics that can help you succeed online. Call (517) 485-5185 to make an appointment.

2017 ATHENA AWARDS LUNCHEON, EAST LANSING The ATHENA Award recognizes individuals who excel in professional accomplishments, community contributions and in opening pathways for other women to follow. The ATHENA award was created by former Lansing Chamber President Martha Mertz in 1982 and has spread around the world. Join the Lansing Chamber at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center to mix, mingle and celebrate the outstanding women in our community. The award luncheon is from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Visit lansingchamber.org for more information and to register.

SUPERVISOR & MANAGER TRAINING COURSE, LANSING Organizations need a consistent and current source of training for newly promoted and hired supervisors and managers. Participants will learn the true roles of a supervisor, acquire coaching skills that positively influence change, develop techniques needed to navigate difficult employee conversations and increase the productivity, morale and retention of staff. This seminar is held at the Michigan Chamber of Commerce from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit michamber.com to learn more and to register.

DECEMBER 7

DECEMBER 12

THE LEADERSHIP EVENT, LANSING Register for this leadership seminar to develop comprehensive management and development skills that will contribute to building a cohesive and collaborative team. Take the time to step out of your comfort zone, finetune your leadership skills, implement more effective communication strategies, utilize feedback and direction to think outside the box, and overcome and manage team conflict efficiently. Registration for this one-day seminar is $139 or $149 for a group of five or more. Visit pryor.com to register and learn more about what this seminar offers.

CRITICISM & DISCIPLINE SKILLS FOR MANAGERS AND SUPERVISORS, LANSING Giving constructive criticism and input can be tricky. If criticism is delivered poorly employee morale and productivity can decrease. Participants in this seminar will learn proven ways managers can implement positive change in people with employee discipline training – without incurring resentment, making enemies or destroying relationships. This one-day seminar is $149 or $139 when a group of five or more enrolls. Visit pryor.com to register and learn more.

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

DECEMBER 2017

DECEMBER 12

BUSINESS CALENDAR

DECEMBER 13

DECEMBER 19

NACW MEETING, LANSING The National Association of Colored Women is a nonprofit organization devoted to the enhancement of women’s personal and professional development. Their mission is to create an enriching environment for career women to share, grow and build professional and personal relationships that enable them to reach their full potential. Lunch meetings are the second Wednesday of each month from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Urban Beat Event Center. Reserve your luncheon spot as a guest or member by visiting nacwonline.org/chapters/Lansing.aspx.

GRC HOLIDAY GALA, LANSING The Grand River Connection is hosting its annual Holiday Gala. Spend the evening at the Lansing Brewing Company to enjoy cocktails and conversation with fellow young professionals. There will be complimentary appetizers and a cash bar provided for all who attend. Attendees should arrive dressed to impress, and with a $5 donation and a nonperishable food item to donate to the Greater Lansing Food Bank. The Gala is from 6-8 p.m. Find more information by visiting grandriverconnection.com.

DECEMBER 14 TERMINATING EMPLOYEES FOR OFF-DUTY CONDUCT, LANSING Most employees have a strong and valid interest in monitoring the off-duty conduct of employees if it may affect employee performance in the workplace as well as the employer’s reputation. This webinar will lay out strategies that minimize the possibility of litigation when terminating an employee for harmful off-duty conduct. Registration is $75 for Michigan Chamber members and $95 for non-members. Learn more by visiting michamber.com.

to 12 p.m. in the East Lansing Marriott at University Place. This is an annual program that covers two modules per month, for 12 consecutive months (48 hours of training) at a cost of $5,000 per seat. For anyone interested in enrolling or finding more information, visit lansingchamber.com.

DECEMBER 27 THE HATCHING, LANSING Post your business idea and gain votes. The top five ideas will pitch to a live audience at the Lansing Brewing Company. The winning idea will receive $1,000 in seed funding. Visit thehatching.org for more information.

DECEMBER 19 TECH TUESDAY, LANSING Tech Tuesday is a group of weekly meetups just for developers. They meet every Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Technology Innovation Center in East Lansing. Visit purelansing.com for more information.

DECEMBER 21 CRESTCOM TRAINING: THE BULLET PROOF MANAGER, EAST LANSING Crestcom provides monthly training on the third Thursday of each month, from 8 a.m.

DECEMBER 14

JANUARY 2 THE INC. STARTUP ACCELERATOR, LANSING Build your launch skills from scratch, with personal input from professional coaches. This is an online course, but gather with other entrepreneurs in the 300 Room at the East Lansing Technology Innovation Center to follow along. The Inc. Startup is from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Visit purelansing.com for more information.

“Everstream connected us to their fiber ring to provide the high-speed, low-latency connectivity that our business requires.”

REAL ESTATE C.O.R. DESIGNATION, EAST LANSING Every real estate agent knows that listings are key, but most still only carry three or four listings at any given time. Wayne Fredrick, founder and CEO of See the Field Consulting, discovered that many agents simply don’t have the presentation skills, materials and dialogue to list a property at a high level. Learn the specific strategies created by COR designation, you will be armed and prepared to list multiple properties at a high level. This course will be held at the East Lansing Marriott at 300 M.A.C. Ave. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost of attendance is $249. Register and find more information by visiting eventbrite.com.

Tim Sakmar, Global Network Manager, MTD

Faster Fiber. Better Business.

DECEMBER 15 TEAM CITY MARKET, LANSING Are you passionate about Lansing? Are you full of cool ideas that would make this city and its riverfront a more bustling shopping and entertainment hub? Then you should join the TEAM City Market meeting. You’ll get the chance to network with fellow inspired members of the community to brainstorm over lunch every third Friday at noon. Visit lansingcitymarket.com for more information.

Enterprise to Wholesale. Networking to high-speed internet. Everstream is your Business Fiber Network.

everstream.net

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LANSING AT A GLANCE

GREATER LANSING AT A GLANCE Each month, Greater Lansing Business Monthly compiles statistics showing the growth of the greater Lansing area month to month. This information is not comprehensive, but rather, a snapshot of the area’s growth throughout the year. The following is a look at the advances some of Lansing’s biggest businesses have made in the past two months.

MICHIGAN RETAILERS ASSN. INDEX

BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS: LABOR FORCE DATA

A monthly gauge of key retail activity in the state.

The regular report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics tracking the region's job performance.

Sep. ‘17

Aug. ‘17

July ‘17

June ‘17

Sep. '16

Sales

43.7

66.5

44.5

60.1

56.9

Inventory

54.2

59.6

53.4

54.5

Prices

49.4

52.6

49.6

49.1

Marketing/Promotion

55.3

55.4

58.4

Hiring Plans

47.3

48.8

54.9

56.6

Sept. ‘17

Aug. ‘17

July ‘17

June ‘17

Sept. '16

Civilian Labor Force (1)

(P) 247.8

242.1

244.8

246

240.6

52.6

Employment (1)

(P) 237.3

230.8

232.1

235.1

231.5

50.1

Unemployment (1)

(P) 10.5

11.3

12.7

10.7

9.1

52.8

Unemployment Rate (2)

(P) 4.3

4.7

5.2

4.3

3.8

Values above 50 generally indicate an increase in activity

BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS: WAGE & SALARY

KEY STOCKS — MONTH-END CLOSE

The regular report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics tracking the region's job performance.

A report on price changes for key local stocks and others that reflect the health of the region's economy.

Sept. ‘17

Aug. ‘17

July ‘17

June ‘17

Sept. '16

(P) 236.4

227.5

228.5

230.9

224.8

12-month % change

(P) 1%

1.50%

2.10%

1.80%

2.70%

Mining, Logging & Construction (3)

(P) 7.9

8.1

8.2

7.8

(P) 3.90%

5.20%

6.50%

5.30%

5.40%

(P) 20.1

20.2

20.1

20.4

20.9

(P) -3.80%

-3.30%

-3.40%

-2.90%

3.50%

(P) 37.3

37.7

37.6

37.7

35.6

(P) 1.10%

4.40%

5.30%

3.20%

(P) 2.9

2.9

3.1

Total Nonfarm (3)

12-month % change Manufacturing (3) 12-month % change Trade, Transportation & Utilities (3) 12-month % change Information (3) 12-month % change

(P) 0%

-3.30%

3.30%

(P) 16.2

16.4

16.3

16.1

12-month % change

(P) 1.30%

1.20%

1.90%

4.50%

1.90%

Professional & Business Services (3)

(P) 21.8

21.5

21.8

22.1

22.8

12-month % change

(P) -2.70%

0.90%

1.40%

-1.30%

3.60%

Education & Health Services (3)

(P) 32.5

31.8

31.9

32.2

30.9

12-month % change

(P) 1.20%

1.60%

2.20%

1.90%

Leisure & Hospitality (3)

(P) 21.3

20.7

21.1

19.2

12-month % change

(P) 8.10%

5.60%

6.20%

7.70%

-1.50%

(P) 10.5

10.6

10.7

10.2

(P) 0%

0.90%

(P) 65.9

57.6

58.4

59.5

58.2

(P) 1.40%

0.00%

0.50%

3.60%

Financial Activities (3)

Other Services (3) 12-month % change Government 12-month % change

(1) Number of persons, in thousands, not seasonally adjusted. (2) In percent, not seasonally adjusted. (3) Number of jobs, in thousands, not seasonally adjusted. See About the data. (P) Preliminary (R) Revised

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

Nov. ‘17

Oct. ‘17

Sep. ‘17

Aug. ‘17

Nov. '16

Spartan Motors

14.5

16.15

11.05

9.2

8.85

General Motors

42.67

42.98

40.38

36.54

34.53

Emergent BioSolutions

48.84

41.01

40.45

37.73

26.76

Neogen

82.04

80.2

77.46

68.9

63.28

Gannett (Lansing State Journal)

10.18

8.7

8.49

9.54

Gray Broadcasting (WILX)

15.452

15.57

15.7

14.3

10.10

Media General (WLNS)*

65.7

63.8

62.3

60.2

59.65

Bank of America

26.51

27.39

25.34

23.89

21.12

UPS

113.23

118.09

120

114.36

115.92

Home Depot

164.11

165.78

163.56

149.87

129.40

Kroger**

22.08

20.7

20.06

22.2

32.30

Macy's Inc.

19.98

18.76

21.48

20.77

42.20

Wal-Mart Stores

90.02

87.31

78.14

78.07

70.43

*Nexstar acquired Media Genera in January; **Adjusted for stock split

TRI-COUNTY HOUSING STATISTICS: NOVEMBER 2017 Source: Realtor.com research, (Updated: Sept 14th, 2017)

Ingham

Clinton

Eaton

Homes for sale

1,503

409

631

Homes for rent

247

Median listing price

$127,000.00

$165,000.00

$140,000.00

Price per square foot

$76.00

$82.00

$72.00

Median closing price

$125,000.00

$169,000.00

$146,000.00

Median days on market*

*Includes only single family homes and condo-townhomes, excludes pending listings

DECEMBER 2017

LANSING AT A GLANCE

EATON COUNTY WORKPLACES AND WAGES, 1ST QUARTER 2017 Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages

Next Month: Ingham County

Number of Workplaces

March '17 Employment

Total 1st quarter wages*

Average Weekly Wages

Total, all industries

5,616

107,839

$1,271,198,418.00

909

Service providing

4,998

92,184

$1,037,957,371.00

868

Goods producing

618

15,655

$233,241,047.00

1,145

Natural resources and mining

434

$3,865,110.00

656

Construction

364

3,793

$55,031,735.00

1,122 1,172

Manufacturing Trade, transportation, and utilities Information Financial activities Professional and business services

209

11,428

$174,344,202.00

1,151

20,630

$175,382,589.00

654

115

2,108

$32,268,949.00

1,166

578

8,431

$159,410,761.00

1,454

1,077

15,645

$258,948,251.00

1,275

Education and health services

758

25,763

$301,091,302.00

902

Leisure and hospitality

598

13,705

$54,729,969.00

311

Other services

673

5,811

$55,455,144.00

736

Unclassified

$670,406.00

602

Outsourced Accounting Solution - Is it right for you? Many companies are facing challenges dealing with transitions of key financial team members. Outsourcing becomes an obvious temporary solution, but could outsourcing be a good option for you on a more permanent basis?

WHY OUTSOURCE?

Dependable workforce Hiring staff is no longer a concern. Hiring competent, dependable accounting staff can be very difficult and time-consuming. An outsource firm has the resources and expertise to find staff, to train them and to cross train others to prepare for transitions and turnover.

Flexible Solutions Business owners need staffing in accounts payable, accounts receivable, an accounting manager, a controller and a CFO. Many small businesses and growing organizations do not need all of those people all of the time. With an outsourced solution, your business has the right level person at the right time.

Efficiencies in process and technology Outsourced staff have access to state-of-the-art technology and software with experts who use them every day. Staff have “best practice” experience in many different companies.

CEOs and owners can focus on the business Most business owners and CEOs do not aspire to become great accountants. Outsourcing that part of the business gives the confidence and reliance on the numbers so they can make informed decisions about the direction of the company.

DRAWBACK TO OUTSOURCING?

Having someone physically in your office all the time – Outsourcing is all about efficiency. You pay for only the specialized accounting service you need and outsourced staff will optimize a plan to perform those functions that integrate best with your schedule. Therefore, outsourced staff will work remotely when possible and on-site when necessary.

WHAT ACCOUNTING SERVICES CAN BE OUTSOURCED?

Many of the most difficult, time-consuming and specialized services can be outsourced! A highly trained team can quickly review and document your process, recommend efficiency enhancements and devise a tailored plan to outsource most accounting functions. Whether it is standard bookkeeping functions like accounts payable, receivable or payroll, James A. McNeeley, CPA or more complex functions, like strategic planning, budgeting or (517) 886-9502 forecasting, a good outsourced team will handle most any jmcneeley@manercpa.com accounting function. manercpa.com | manersolutions.com

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NOTABLE NEWS

A. Bush, Michael E. Cavanaugh, Graham K. Crabtree, Michael P. Donnelly, Anita G. Fox, Max R. Hoffman, Jr., Peter D. Houk, Mark E. Kellogg, Darrell A. Linidan, David E.S. Marvin, Thaddeus E. Morgan, Michael H. Perry, Gary C. Rogers, Thomas L. Sparks, Marlaine C. Tehan and Jonathan T. Walton. The attorneys named as Rising Star are Aaron L. Davis, Brian T. Gallagher, Paul C. Mallon, Jr., Melisa M.W. Mysliwiec, Shaina R. Reed and R. Paul Vance.

TREBILCOCK LAWYERS SELECTED FOR 2017 LIST OF SUPER LAWYERS, RISING STARS IN MICHIGAN Seventeen Fraser Trebilcock attorneys have been selected for inclusion on the 2017 list of Super Lawyers, with six additional attorneys named "2017 Rising Stars in Michigan". The selection process for Super Lawyers is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations. In the U.S., Super Lawyers Magazine is published in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., reaching more than 13 million readers. For the fourth consecutive year, attorney Marlaine C. Teahan has been included as one of the Top 50 Female Attorneys in Michigan, one of the Top 50 Consumer Law Attorneys in Michigan and as one of the Top 25 Female Consumer Law Attorneys in Michigan. Fraser Trebilcock attorneys selected as a Super Lawyer include Michael S. Ashton, Mark

The attorneys work at the firm’s offices in Lansing, Detroit and Grand Rapids, Mich.

MSUFCU NAMED ONE OF BEST CREDIT UNIONS TO WORK FOR BY CREDIT UNION JOURNAL MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) is proud to announce that MSUFCU has once again, for the second consecutive year, been named as one of Credit Union Journal’s Best Credit Unions to Work For.

Employees at MSUFCU benefit from several programs that support their development and well-being, including: • An open-door policy to meet with managers, executives and the CEO • Bi-weekly, one-on-one meetings with direct supervisors to track career development • Specialized training and education on leadership, management development, action forward and personal enrichment • Fun events to connect with co-workers, including the summer family picnic March Madness lunch • Annual Service Recognition Dinner, where employees receive awards for their years of service, embodiment of Credit Union culture and personal volunteer efforts • A robust benefits package, including: 200 percent match on 401k contributions up to 5 percent; health, dental and vision, paid entirely by the Credit Union; generous paid time off; education assistance; life insurance; paid volunteer time off; and Encompass, an external company providing cognitive behavioral therapy services

Recently Sold & New Listings! 2149 Jolly Road, Suite 200 - Okemos, MI 48864 517.487.9222 - naimidmichigan.com

2105 University Park Dr., Okemos, 48864 For Sale: Office

$1,100,000 12,493 SF

707 Brookside Plz., Lansing, 48917

For Lease: Restaurant $14.00 PSF NNN 6,400 SF

Call Jim Vlahakis - 517.487.9222

Call John Starkey - 517.487.9222

711 N. Cedar St., Mason, 48854

830 W. Lake Lansing Rd., East Lansing, 48823

SOLD!

Auto Sales/Showroom

Jim Vlahakis represented Purchaser Jeff Shapiro represented Seller

SOLD!

Corporate Office

Jeff Shapiro represented Purchaser and Seller

NO WARRANTY OR REPRESENTATION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, IS MADE AS TO THE ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN, AND THE SAME IS SUBMITTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGE OF PRICE, RENTAL OR OTHER CONDITIONS, PRIOR SALE, LEASE OR FINANCING, OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE, AND OF ANY SPECIAL LISTING CONDITIONS IMPOSED BY OUR PRINCIPALS NO WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONS ARE MADE AS TO THE CONDITION OF THE PROPERTY OR ANY HAZARDS CONTAINED THEREIN ARE ANY TO BE IMPLIED.

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

DECEMBER 2017

NOTABLE NEWS

“The vitality of our organization relies on developing and supporting the skills of our employees,” said MSUFCU’s Chief Human Resources Officer Silvia Dimma. “Through internal development programs, events that engage employees and build the Credit Union culture, and transparent communication and access with management, we help inspire employees to continue their professional growth.”

and supports its clients’ strategic initiatives such as data backup and recovery, data storage, virtualized environments, database services, performance improvement, overall architectural design and implementation. Dewpoint has welcomed several new employees to Lansing and Grand Rapids. The company’s new additions include Will Cicola, Amber-Lynn Harger, Lenny Robinson, Cameron Reyes, Julie Daniels, Cheryl Granger and Connie Mead.

Dewpoint supports clients in the Midwest and across the country. Additional information is available at dewpoint.com.

MASON APARTMENT COMPLEX CELEBRATES RENOVATIONS WITH RIBBON CUTTING To help celebrate the completion of recent renovations at Beacon Lakes Apartments, the Mason Area Chamber of Commerce ambassadors provided a ribbon cutting on Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017 during an open house mixer. The apartment community in Mason is known for its quiet atmosphere and recognized by its charming lighthouse. Apartment units feature cathedral ceilings, deluxe kitchens, fullsize washers and dryers, and walk-in closets. The apartment office is located at 940 S. Cedar St. in Mason. Assisting property manager Paige Kunkel are Beth Yeider, Russ Whipple, Kerry Adams, Emily Fenger, Kathy Sievert, Elaine Ferris, Jill Shaffer, Elaine Brause, Allie Gordon, Tiffany Chandler, Terrie Mona, Matt Guenther, Chad Page, Kassie Rhodes and Matt Bass.

Beacon Lakes Apartments ribbon cutting

LOCAL TECHNOLOGY CONSULTING COMPANY CONTINUES TO GROW Dewpoint is a provider of technology consulting and implementation solutions. Its professional services focus on strategic assessments, portfolio, program and project management, managed services, infrastructure optimization and applications development and maintenance. As data center experts, Dewpoint also architects

1999 E. SAGINAW HWY. | EAST LANSING, MI 48823 | 517.339.6300

THEMERIDIANADVANTAGE.NET L

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MANER COSTERISAN’S SOLUTIONS CONFERENCE EXPLORES A JOY-FILLED WORKPLACE Maner Costerisan, the largest regional CPA firm in mid-Michigan, held its premier, annual educational event, the Solutions Conference, on Tuesday, Nov. 14 at the Lansing Center. Business,

accounting and technology professionals from a variety of industries attended.

HOW AN

ENTERTAINMENT LAWYER CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS 1. Build your brand 2. Protect your intellectual property

including copyrights and trademarks for any film, TV, music, book, marketing, and other endeavors

3. Develop contracts that clearly define ownership and creative control

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

FOSTERSWIFT.COM Lansing • Detroit • Southfield • Grand Rapids • Holland • St. Joseph

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

DECEMBER 2017

Menlo Innovations CEO Rich Sheridan was the keynote speaker. He is the author of “Joy, Inc.”: a publication on how to build a workplace people love. Sheridan’s mission is to help business leaders create an intentional team culture focused on the business value of joy to unleash the human energy and results they always knew were possible. Each conference attendee received a copy of his book. The conference featured sessions for executives, business owners, Microsoft Dynamics GP users, Sage Intacct users, accounting staff, IT staff and more. Bringing together clients, users, consultants, business partners and staff for a packed day of learning and discovery, the conference offered a variety of sessions including payroll tax changes, data analytics, succession, cloud computing, fraud, year-end closing processes, dashboards, tax updates and more. New this year was the executive track, the Solutions Conference Executive Focus. These executive-level sessions focused on the overall strategy of an organization. Specialized sessions included: Ownership Transition Strategies presented by Tom Ziemba, Global Employer Services managing director, Ph.D. of BDP USA, LLP, Chicago Ill.; and National Office and U.S. Market and Economic Outlook: People & Policies presented by Dan Kieffer, director of Alternative Strategies and Equity Research for Fifth Third Bank. For more information, visit manercpa.com.

INGHAM COUNTY COMMISSIONERS HOST COFFEE WITH COMMISSIONERS On Wednesday, Oct. 11, the Ingham County Commissioners hosted Coffee with Commissioners, a meeting to educate the public on the upcoming millage proposal, to highlight the vital services Ingham County provides to its citizens and emphasize how the financial struggles facing Ingham County affects these services. “This is a great opportunity for residents of Ingham County to meet with Commissioners in an informal setting to learn more about the essential services provided by the County and how financial challenges could impact these services”, said Sarah Anthony, chairperson of the Ingham County Board of Commissioners. “Now more than ever, residents need to have a clear understanding of how tax dollars are utilized to ensure a safe, healthy and thriving community.”

NOTABLE NEWS

The purpose of the separate tax limitation proposal on the ballot for the Nov. 7, 2017 General Election was to re-establish the maximum operating tax levy for the County, general law townships and the intermediate school district. Because of Proposal A and Headlee, the maximum operating levy has been rolled back over several years. For additional information, please call the Board of Commissioner’s office at (517) 676-7200.

LANSING CHAMBER LAUNCHES THIRD ANNUAL LEADERSHIP LANSING COHORT The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) recently began its Leadership Lansing program again. Forty-one leaders from a diverse number of organizations in the region participated in the third year of the Chamber’s talent initiative. Leadership Lansing opened on Monday, Oct. 9, with a dinner at R.E. Olds Museum in downtown Lansing. The seven, full-day training sessions took place at the Chamber offices located at 500 E. Michigan Ave. in Lansing. “We couldn’t be more pleased with the response the community has had for Leadership Lansing and the success of our first two years,” said Tim Daman, LRCC president and chief executive officer. “The importance our region’s employers place on this program and the role it is playing in talent attraction and retention is underscored by the fact that we have filled all the available slots in the program for the third consecutive year.” Leadership Lansing is an eight-month program where participants engage in seven workshops in which they are exposed to key institutions, industry sectors and business leaders that are the fabric of the Greater Lansing region. Workshops this year will focus on government, education, manufacturing, insurance, health care, homegrown businesses and entrepreneurism, cultural gems in the region and the history of Lansing. Participants also receive training in individual leadership skills including understanding how to identify and leverage their personal strengths. Leadership Lansing is facilitated by credentialed coaches and certified leadership instructors, Susan Combs, MBA, PCC of Susan Combs Coaching and Consulting and Ross Woodstock, ACC of Kolt Communications.

MCLAREN GREAT LANSING RECEIVES NATIONAL ACCREDITATION

The National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) is a nonprofit organization that identifies and recognizes breast centers providing high-quality care in the U.S.

McLaren Greater Lansing is the first and longest running mid-Michigan hospital to receive national accreditation for its breast care center by the NAPBC from the American College of Surgeons.

“We offer a comprehensive breast care center where patients can expect high quality care and compassionate staff members,” Lewis Jones Jr. M.D., director of Breast Care Center at McLaren Greater Lansing, said. “From your annual mammogram to surviving cancer, we are here for you every step of the way.”

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A service provided by

Michigan Secretary of State Ruth Johnson L

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According to the American College of Surgeons, NAPBC-accredited centers embrace the entire spectrum of breast care, providing women with access to a range of Board-certified specialists, including surgeons, radiologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, plastic reconstructive surgeons, genetic counselors and psychosocial support professionals. Accredited centers also offer patient navigators, patient education and support, palliative care programs, survivorship programs and high-risk clinics. To be accredited, a breast center must provide these services in one setting or provide most of the services on-site and have referral processes in place for other services. Whether provided or referred, the services must meet or exceed the standards written by the NAPBC Board. For more information, or to schedule an appointment with McLaren Greater Lansing Breast Care Center, call (517) 975-6425.

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FIVE REGIONAL COMPANIES HONORED AT REGIONAL GROWTH AWARDS Five organizations were honored Thursday, Nov. 16 for their significant community investments at the 12th annual Celebration of Regional Growth Awards luncheon presented by the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC). The organizations honored this year were: • Eaton Rapids Medical Center for its continued investment in the community, most recently, its 25,000-square foot addition that houses the Eaton Rapids Medical Center Family Practice, Redicare, Physical Therapy, Sleep Center and Behavioral Health Departments. • The Gillespie Company for its six milliondollar, four story mixed-use property The Venue in East Town. The Venue is home to Strange Matters Coffee, Beikoku Shidokan Karate, Wild Strawberry and Local Tattoo and Laser.

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• Loran Oils was honored with the International Trade Award. Over the years, the business has expanded its product offerings and now services over 30,000 customers in 25 countries. • Pratt & Whitney was honored for its $97 million investment in a 93,000-square foot facility adding to its existing GTF fan blade production line. • Spartan Motors and its division Spartan Specialty Vehicles recently celebrated the grand opening of its new, flexible manufacturing facility. The 85,000-square foot assembly plant represents a 6.5-million-dollar investment and is producing the all-new 2018 Isuzu FTR Class 6 medium-duty truck. The Celebration of Regional Growth awards program is an annual event presented by the LRCC.

TRUSTEE LARRY MEYER ELECTED TO ASSOCIATION OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Lansing Community College (LCC) Board Trustee and Treasurer Larry Meyer has been elected to the Board of Directors of the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). Directors serve three-year terms, and Meyer will serve until 2020. ACCT is a nonprofit educational organization of governing boards, representing more than 6,500 elected and appointed trustees who govern over 1,200 community, technical and junior colleges in the U.S. and beyond. Located in Washington, D.C., ACCT is a major voice of community college trustees to the presidential administration, U.S. Congress and the Departments of Education and Labor.

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MAKE YOUR TAX-DEDUCTIBLE GIFT NOW wkar.org • (517) 884-4747 404 Wilson Road Room 212 East Lansing • MI 48824 To qualify for 2017 tax benefits: online gifts must be made by midnight Dec. 31; mail postmarked by Dec. 31. In-person gifts can be delivered weekdays during business hours throughout December.

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“I want to be on the ACCT Board because this is where we get a national perspective on the best practices and innovations of community colleges in the country,” Meyer said. “Focusing on student success enables our students to have hope and opportunity, and that means students can succeed with employable skills.” Besides being treasurer at LCC, Trustee Meyer serves on LCC’s Board of Trustees as the current Audit Committee chair and served as past board chair from 2011-2015. In addition to being elected to the ACCT Board of Directors, he has also served on ACCT’s Central Region Nominating Committee, and the Finance and Audit Committee.

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Meyer has enjoyed a long and distinguished business career, including three and a half decades as the head of the Michigan Retailers Association. He served as the Director of the State of Michigan Department of Commerce from 1989-1990, appointed by Gov. James J. Blanchard. Meyer was elected twice to political office as a member of the Lansing City Council, serving from 1997-2005, including 2002 as council president. He was elected to LCC’s Board of Trustees Nov. 3, 2009. He was re-elected Nov. 8, 2016, and his term expires Dec. 31, 2020.

FRASER TREBILCOCK WELCOMES ATTORNEY NORBERT T. MADISON TO THE FIRM’S DETROIT OFFICE Fraser Trebilcock is proud to announce the addition of attorney Norbert T. Madison to the firm’s Detroit office. Madison is a highly regarded corporate and real estate attorney with more than three decades of experience. His primary focus is on real estate matters. He represents all facets of the practice including the purchase, sale, leasing and financing of various types of real estate, as well as the development of industrial, office, retail, condominium and residential real estate. Madison also counsels clients in corporate and partnership law, including limited liability companies.

horned beetle, and “Fly Like an Eagle,” which is an interactive presentation using drone video footage of Michigan landscapes, such as the Detroit’s Belle Isle and Tahquamenon Falls.

BERNINA INTERNATIONAL OWNER UELTSCHI VISITS COUNTRY STITCHES

Ed Suniga, director of Computer Information Technologies and Program Innovation at LCC said, “These programs are exciting opportunities for advancement for students.” To date, nearly 15,000 state park visitors have played “Forest Defender,” which is on display at eight Michigan state park nature centers. “Fly Like an Eagle” is on display on eight-foot screens at the Detroit Outdoor Adventure Center near Belle Isle. Users explore their choice of eight digital landscapes using the hand-held sensors of a 3D model of an American Bald Eagle. The participant controls the eagle’s wings by waving their own arms as though in flight. This interactive presentation was created at the request of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Hanspeter Ueltschi met guests, posed for photos and signed machines at Country Stitches on Monday, Oct. 16 in East Lansing. Ueltschi discussed the rich history and innovations of BERNINA International.

The applications were a public/private collaboration between LCC, the Michigan DNR and the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget.

“We are excited to host Ueltschi during his travels to the United States,” said Brian Ladson, owner of Country Stitches. The store is an authorized BERNINA dealer, and provides

Bernina International Owner Hanspeter Ueltschi's Visit to Country Stitches

Madison earned his J.D. from the University of Detroit School of Law.

LCC’S DIGITAL INNOVATION INSTITUTE AWARDED THE 2017 MICHIGAN EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGY AWARD The Digital Innovation Institute (DII) at Lansing Community College (LCC) received the 2017 Michigan Excellence in Technology Award at the Michigan Digital Government Summit held at the Lansing Center. The Award is based on LCC’s innovative DII programs in two student-produced projects: The “Forest Defender,” a digital game which teaches users to identify the invasive Asia Long-

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a variety of sewing, embroidery and quilting classes for people of all skill levels. For more information, visit countrystitches.com.

BWL HOSTS STUDENT TOUR FOR CAREERS IN ENERGY WEEK The Lansing Board of Water & Light (BWL) welcomed students from Mason High School on Friday, Oct. 20 as part of Careers in Energy Week. Students toured the construction and maintenance facility at the BWL, and watched live demonstrations from the welding and construction departments. “Skilled trades are becoming more and more in demand, and that’s not going to change any time soon,” said General Manager Dick Peffley. “Getting students in to see all of the different career pathways you can take with the BWL is important. They’re the future of our company.” DTE Energy, Consumers Energy and the BWL have partnered to provide Michigan students an up-close look at vibrant career paths with

the fourth annual Careers in Energy Week, proclaimed Oct. 16-20 by Gov. Rick Snyder. More than 99,000 Michiganders have energyrelated jobs, and the Michigan Workforce Development Agency estimates energy jobs will grow by 9 percent through 2024. At the same time, as many as 50 percent of workers in Michigan’s utility sector will be eligible to retire within the next decade.

AJBOGGS – TELNET PARTNERSHIP ANNOUNCED AJBoggs and TelNet Worldwide, Inc. (TelNet) announced a strategic partnership to offer services in telecommunications, cybersecurity and managed Internet hosting. TelNet is strategically investing in expanded capacity in its fiber network, cloud, data center, call center, Internet and voice solutions. AJBoggs’ IXN and 911.net Teams provide managed services with expertise in cybersecurity, web, disaster recovery and data-loss prevention services. “Together, TelNet and AJBoggs bring a robust offering of talent, bandwidth and infrastructure

to compete in the networked economy. Our team is dedicated, with customer focus and a deep suite of cloud services to help our clients be more secure, effective, and competitive,” said Clarke Anderson, CEO of A.J. Boggs & Company. “TelNet has joined AJBoggs to expand its data center and cloud solutions, offering additional cybersecurity, HIPAA data management, PCI compliance, and data exchange services which enhance and simplify the ways businesses communicate and collaborate,” said Mark Iannuzzi, TelNet president. TelNet Worldwide is a premier, Michiganbased provider of business-essential data center and cloud solutions, unified communications, networking, and contact center services. For more about TelNet, visit telnetww.com. A.J. Boggs & Company (AJBoggs) is an established Internet product and cloud services firm headquartered in East Lansing, with offices in Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids. Visit ajboggs.com for more information.

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JOIN GREATER LANSING BUSINESS MONTHLY as they present the 24th Annual Entrepreneurial Awards Ceremony

THURSDAY, MARCH 8, 2018

Cocktail Hour starts at 5:00 p.m. followed by the awards program at 6:30 p.m. Eagle Eye Golf Club, 15500 Chandler Road, Bath Twp KEYNOTE SPEAKER Mark Winkelman is the President of Better Made Snack Foods in Detroit, Michigan. He has been President since 2011. Prior to that he held several positions at Better Made since joining the company in 1994.

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