GLBM March 2018 by M3 Group Publications

MARCH 2018

THE FUTURE OF REAL ESTATE Mary Jo DeHaven lends nearly a quarter century of licensed experience to help elaborate on homebuying in the Greater Lansing region IN THIS ISSUE • Gov. Rick Snyder’s State of the State showcases Michigan’s momentum • McLaren Health Care sets a $450 million commitment next to MSU • A look inside the 2018 Entrepreneurial Awards judges panel

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MARCH 2018 ON THE COVER Gov. Rick Snyder’s State of the State showcases Michigan’s momentum............................................. 12 McLaren Health Care sets a $450 million commitment next to MSU............................................... 14 A look inside the 2018 Entrepreneurial Awards judges panel...................................... 16 The Future of Real Estate............................................................... 28

MARCH 2018

28 NEWS Tiny Homes Have a Big Impact on Housing Markets ................................................................................................................. 6 Cybercrime Creates Billion Dollar Problems for Consumers ............................................ 8 Seven School Districts are Set to Develop Partnership Agreements alongside the Michigan Department of Education ......................................10

FEATURES The Inner Sanctum .................................................................................................................................. 20 Visual Breakdown .................................................................................................................................... 24 Behind the Scenes ................................................................................................................................... 32 Business Spotlight ................................................................................................................................... 34 Business Calendar ................................................................................................................................... 36 Notable News ............................................................................................................................................ 38

Cover photography by Mary Gajda

Greater Lansing Business Monthly | Volume 31, Issue 3

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

Subscriptions: Subscriptions are available at $22 per year for postage and handling or $38 for two years. Call (517) 203-3333 or visit lansingbusinessnews.com to subscribe. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Greater Lansing Business Monthly, 221 West Saginaw Street, Lansing, MI 48933. Send additional subscription requests and address changes to The Greater Lansing Business Monthly, Inc., 221 West Saginaw Street, Lansing, MI 48933. Copyright © 2016 The Greater Lansing Business Monthly, Inc. All rights reserved. Editorial Office: 221 West Saginaw Street, Lansing, MI 48933 lansingbusinessnews.com 2

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MARCH 2018

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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COMMENTARY

POSITIVITY WILL Publisher: Tiffany Dowling tiffany@m3group.biz

GROW OUR REGION

Sales Manager: Jennifer Hodges jhodges@m3group.biz Editor: Kelly Mazurkiewicz kelly@m3group.biz Media Manager: Jill Bailey Account Managers: Megan Fleming Manny Garcia Communications Director: Ami Iceman-Haueter Art Director: Mark Warner Publication Designer: Heather Thielking Graphic Designers: Jeanette Wummel Quandrel Ollie Cody Fell Photographer: Mary Gajda Web Manager: Skylar Kohagen Videographer: Michael Cagney Event Calendar Manager: Jaime Hardesty

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

Cranes in the sky, new neighborhood development and a healthy rental market are all signs of a strong regional and economy. The economic factors are undeniable when these indicators help spur job growth and financial investment, but it’s more than that. The optics are important too. Have you ever thought about the power of positivity? I know what you’re thinking… I’m not talking about the fad from several years ago where it was asserted that thinking positively was a cure all. It certainly isn’t, but it does play a significant role. I would certainly place myself in the positive persons camp. I don’t think that I discount the difficulties or challenges that a region faces or the reality of individual tragedy but experiencing these things with a foundation of positive energy can help the healing. Positive psychology is the scientific study of human flourishing and an applied approach for optimizing functionality. It was defined as the study of strengths and virtues that enabled individuals, communities and organizations to thrive (Gable & Haidt, 2005, Sheldon & King, 2001). In 2016, the Positive Psychology Center said that those grounded in positive energy lead meaningful and fulfilling lives and cultivate and enhance experiences of work and play. I think about some of the individuals making a difference in our region and one of the things they have in common is a positive perspective. That doesn’t mean they don’t face adversity, but it does change how they frame their reactions. As it relates to regional growth, I maintain that we are pretty hard on ourselves when it comes to celebrating the positives of our area. You could chock it up to Midwestern humility, but I believe that we don’t have the positive outlook that helps spur us forward. In the next few months, I hope to learn what our region believes our assets and challenges are and create messaging that helps get everyone speaking the same language and seeing the possibilities. I want to reset the way we talk about ourselves and create ambassadors capable of spreading positivity here and beyond. I’m suggesting we rebrand our area and work together for the region, our communities and neighborhoods, businesses and future investment, and individuals and future generations. We deserve this. FOUR MAJOR GOALS: • • • •

Understand assets and challenges through research and discussion Create positive messaging we can believe in Spread the word so everyone is speaking the same language Prosper as a region

Who’s in? If you want to be a part of the conversation, please reach out to me - I truly want to hear your positive perspective.

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

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Tiffany Dowling | Publisher

MARCH 2018

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TINY HOMES HAVE A BIG IMPACT ON HOUSING MARKETS BY SARAH SPOHN

Given their small square footage, it’s almost ironic just how large of a shift tiny houses are bringing to real estate markets. In an effort to build reliable, affordable, sustainable housing following Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Katrina cottages began popping up. Cities like Portland, Ore. and Oakland, Calif. also embraced the big opportunity in small homes. In the Greater Lansing area, T.A. Forsberg Inc. has been a vital component to implement the housing trend within the local market. With a rich history dating back three generations, Terry Forsberg was one of the pioneers of highway infrastructure. In his early days, Forsberg poured concrete, built roads and municipal sewer and water systems. Today, his grandson Brent Forsberg continues the tradition and passion for community-centric development. The company’s philosophy is to build environments around how people live in communities. The Okemos-based company frequently opens the development discussion to include community members and welcomes input at town hall meetings. Their latest tiny-house project resides in Lansing’s REO Town neighborhood; Brent Forsberg spoke about that project, which he said aligned perfectly with the historic district’s culture and vision. “The main reason for constructing this home was to begin the discussion of what housing could be,” Forsberg said of the 600-square-foot pilot project. “Our goal was to build and elevate some different construction techniques looking at material costs and efficiency of construction (by Trumble Group).” Following research on living and energy efficiency, construction timelines, layout plans, and comparing other lofts and small spaces in other cities, T.A. Forsberg Inc. completed its first house, known as a Tembo Home, last year. While the Lansing area is now seeing a new wave, Amanda Harrell-Seyburn, an awardwinning associate at east arbor architecture, said 6

Lansing has a tradition of tiny homes. Lansing’s eastside neighborhood dates to the early 19th century, and Baldwin Court in East Lansing has origins from the mid-20th century. Harrell-Seyburn began designing tiny houses five years ago. Working with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, HarrellSeyburn looked at designing tiny houses as an alternative to tent and RV camping at state parks. She has a master’s degree in architecture, specializes in contextually sensitive community projects and is an adjunct professor at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Architecture. Through her work with the Michigan Chapter of the Congress for the New Urbanism (MiCNU), Harrell-Seyburn concurs that housing options directly impact urbanism to attract and retain talent in the area. “The tiny house is most powerful when paired with urban design to increase diversity,” Harrell-Seyburn said. “Rather than relying on only multi-family dwellings to bring diversity in housing options, a tiny house can be easily integrated on the same site, along with an existing single-family dwelling, in the form of a carriage house above a garage, a granny flat or guest house, or any other accessory dwelling unit (ADU) — a design movement trending on the West Coast and soon to be in Michigan. To allow for this increased diversity, zoning ordinances will require modification.” Great Lakes Tiny Homes LLC knows firsthand of the opposition and the zoning ordinances which will need to be modified to fully embrace all types of tiny houses. Brandy and Aaron Kipfmiller are the husbandwife duo behind Great Lakes Tiny Home, based out of Midland, Mich. Aaron has over 20 years of experience in architecture, design, carpentry and construction, and is a national director and Michigan chapter leader for the American Tiny House Association. After a shift in his career, he started his business two years ago. After accidentally launching the website prematurely,

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the couple was already receiving calls from potential customers. The Kipfmillers aim to get the word out about the idea of their Tiny Houses on Wheels (THOWs), and they hope to implement Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) in order to decrease homelessness and create pockets of close-knit communities. The pair has met with many different municipalities throughout the state to broaden the conversation. “I think the tiny home environment — not only does it allow for minimalist lifestyle and sustainability, and a smaller footprint, but it’s going to bring families together,” Brandy said of their dwellings, which are no larger than 220 square feet and utilize reclaimed materials. Market studies and trend-analysis reports have shown the attraction to tiny houses has more to do with culture and lifestyle than lesser square footage. “According to census reports from the 1900s to the 1930s, square footage per person in a dwelling was under 200 square feet. That ballooned to over 800 square feet by 2000,” said Forsberg. “The country’s cost models for how we lived the past four decades have become unsustainable for people.” People no longer desire McMansions — big empty houses with high bills — but are seeking lower housing and transportation costs, which saves money for dining out and taking vacations. While the appeal of a tiny house includes lower bills and more opportunities for travel, AnnMarie Johnson of Weichert, Realtors — Property Mart of St. Johns said the current market in Greater Lansing wants show-room ready real estate. Although she has yet to sell a tiny home, Johnson notes that there are plenty of clients looking to downsize from their home.

NEWS

“The reason for the desire to downsize is so that they can upsize their living experiences. Large homes equal larger expenses and time. Tinyhome living allows for homeowners to spend their time on money and things that are important to them,” Johnson said. While the buzz around the trend is evident — with television shows and documentaries focusing on the tiny house trend — some townships are not welcoming mobile THOWs as a legal, viable housing option. Their main opposition lies within dated zoning laws and health codes; if done right, THOWs are built to code and are compliant with plumbing, insulation and electrical requirements. Given its recent popularity, Aaron Kipfmiller said it’s still difficult to gauge the resale value of a tiny home within the real estate market. So far, Great Lakes Tiny Homes has built three different models that are located in Lansing, Grand Rapids and the thumb area of Michigan. They already have four different builds on the books for spring and summer. As for T.A. Forsberg Inc., besides their planned six-to-eight REO Town houses, the company’s

Sarah Jennings, CPA, CFE, CAE ATHENA International 2016 Community Champion Principal, Maner Costerisan

next project is a proposed neighborhood in the abandoned Eaton Rapids mobile-home park land. According to Vice President of Operations Gina Pons-Schultz, T.A. Forsberg Inc. is still in the planning stages after acquiring the site in October 2017 at the Eaton County Tax Foreclosure Auction. “We want to create a community of Tembo homes here that would link up to local walking and bike trails, and (we) have already begun discussions with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and others that work with veterans,” Pons-Schultz said.

community welcoming for this demographic, we will continue our talent drain to regions that do.” Aside from the millennial demographic, the Kipfmillers have found interest in tiny homes from senior citizens. The "snowbirds" who already travel to Florida from Michigan are now looking at THOW options instead of RVs or owning two homes.

Studies have shown Lansing lacks walkable urban housing, according to Forsberg.

To make Lansing a case study for the next generation of urban development, diversified, quality housing is crucial to a healthy community; pairing this with job growth, education, sustainable infrastructure plans, and social and cultural engagement could really put Lansing on the map.

“The Greater Lansing region is one of the most transit-optimized cities in the country. We were cutting edge on our designs in the ‘50s and ‘60s,” Forsberg said. “The problem is, if we don’t make a monumental shift now, we are not going to be a place 25 percent of young millennials will want to move to. About 25 percent of driving-age citizens under 24 don’t have a license according to a Goldman Sachs report. If we don’t make our

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

“I was incredibly excited to bring ATHENA International back to where it was founded for our annual event. What a great opportunity to showcase Greater Lansing to the international community. Working with the GLCVB made it so easy. I didn’t know about all the helpful services they offer. It was an incredible experience.”

The Greater Lansing Community Champion program honors local individuals who work with the Greater Lansing CVB to bring meetings, events and sports tournaments to the region. Why? Because the meetings and events industry is big business - generating $602 million in local spending and creating over 11,000 local jobs. Do you travel for conferences, tournaments or events? Help the GLCVB bring that event to Greater Lansing and become a Community Champion! Contact Amanda Toy to get started today! 517-377-1405 – atoy@lansing.org or www.lansing.org L

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CYBERCRIME CREATES

BILLION DOLLAR

PROBLEMS FOR CONSUMERS BY TERESA FIRTH

Today's digital age has brought many benefits when it comes to questions, such as being able to find an answer through Google for just about anything or asking Siri a question right from the phone in your pocket. However, it has also brought specialized criminals into our lives that can steal our money and our identities at the click of a key.

out a few details from your social media posts. What they can't get there, they garner from public records and poor security measures taken by consumers. In fact, the Symantec report stated that despite being aware that there is a need for taking precautions to protect themselves from cybercrime, many people overlook the risk.

According to a 2017 report on cyber security insights by Symantec, producer of Norton Antivirus, more than 140 million US citizens fell victim to some sort of cybercrime, including computer viruses or malware, phishing scams and spyware. Headlines ring to the tune of data breaches on Yahoo or LinkedIn, as well as leaks affecting health care databases and shoppers at major stores like Target, leaving consumers wondering how to stop a crime that can happen within nanoseconds.

Symantec's study also revealed that the most likely victims of cybercrimes were millennials, with nearly 70 percent getting attacked by some type of cybercrime in 2017. It cost nearly 20 billion dollars and countless hours for victims to try and repair the damage caused. Just how can we protect ourselves against this ever-increasing cyber threat?

Financial experts on cybersecurity stress that crooks can easily hack into your life by picking 8

PASSWORD PROTECTION One of the biggest areas where you can keep your cyberworld safer is password protection. For one thing, we can stop sharing passwords and using the same password across multiple

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accounts. Studies showed over half of users shared their password and a quarter of them used the same password for multiple sites, with 34 percent of millennials admitting to the practice in the survey. Another common mistake is writing down passwords on a piece of tape and sticking it under your computer or keeping it in your drawer at work. It may seem like a nuisance to create and remember a stronger password, but it's better than losing all your money in your bank account or having all your credit cards racked up by cyber criminals. A strong password should have eight characters; consist of a mix of numbers, letters and symbols; and should change several times a year. If you are worried about forgetting them, you can use one of the password protection programs to keep them all on an encrypted flash drive or store your list on a computer not connected to the internet.

NEWS

ANTIVIRUS AND FIREWALLS

BE CAREFUL OF SUSPICIOUS EMAILS

Everyone should have antivirus-, firewalland malware-protection programs installed on their computers and their mobile devices. There are dozens of these programs and apps available for free, as well as those that cost. If nothing else, if you have a Windows device, Windows Defender is normally installed on most of today's personal computers.

Most of us know not to open attachments from unknown emails, but you should also be careful to check for phishing emails, which mimic emails from legitimate banks and stores. When in doubt, never click on a link in an email, even for your actual accounts. Always type in the URL yourself.

SUBSCRIBE TO IDENTITY PROTECTION

These days, lots of us travel or are out and about. We likely need Google to do something on our phones. If you are saving money by using free Wi-Fi, be sure to limit banking billpaying on public and free wi-fi, for they are usually not encrypted and could put you at risk of theft. USE TWO-STEP VERIFICATION If offered, sign up for extra protect of your sign-in data for email and more with two-step verifications. This way, you must put in more than just a password to get into your account. It may seem like a hassle, but in the long run you

BE CAREFUL ON SOCIAL MEDIA Lock down your social media sites to keep them safe by not listing your address, phone, birthday or other personal info. Hackers can use these to pretend that they are you! Just check out the privacy settings in places like Facebook and Twitter and follow the steps to protect your identity. All in all, cybercrime is getting more prevalent, no matter the generation. If you follow the above steps, you’ll be less likely to become the next victim. Teresa Frith is a Navy veteran now residing in Nashville, Mich. She's been writing and editing as a freelancer since retiring from the Navy in 2011, where she was a military journalist. She holds a BA in English from Western Illinois University. Her hobbies include reading, writing and working to help stray and feral cats.

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CON

The three credit bureaus of Experian, Equifax and TransUnion all have identityprotection programs; commercial companies like LifeLock offer at a monthly fee. There are also free credit-monitoring services that can help you find out if you have possibly been the victim of a data breach. At the very least, people should sign up for real-time alerts for their banking accounts, credit cards and online accounts that can send you a message if any type of unusual activity is detected.

BE CAREFUL ON PUBLIC WI-FI

make a hacker work harder since they must figure out more than just a simple password.

D COF

JOIN US WEDNESDAY MARCH 14, 2018 Be an active member of Lansing’s dynamic business community. Meet people from

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KELLIE’S CONSIGNMENTS 5000 MARSH RD. OKEMOS, MI 48864

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NEWS

SEVEN SCHOOL DISTRICTS are Set to Develop Partnership Agreements Alongside the Michigan Department of Education BY AMI ICEMAN-HAUETER

The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) is working to set and maintain a consistent standard for districts across the state through Partnership Agreements. This partnership model works to support struggling school districts by providing them access to avenues of support to create strategic plans for improvement. Seven districts were identified for Partnership District discussions based on having been previously identified as Priority Schools that continue to lag in their percent-proficient scores, in math and English language arts, on the Spring M-STEP test; the district’s percent proficiency in math and English language arts declined at the district level. “These will be positive yet pressing conversations with the leaders of these districts to get their struggling schools back on track,” said State Superintendent Brian Whiston. “We want to provide as many local and state-level partners as possible to help students in these schools be successful.” Meetings with Battle Creek Public Schools; Lansing Public Schools; Wayne-Westland Community Schools; American International Academy; David Ellis Academy-Elementary; Henry Ford Academy: School for Creative Studies-Elementary; and Mildred C. Wells Preparatory Academy are set to start work toward a solution.

Currently, there are nine Partnership Districts in Michigan. Four of those districts will have additional schools added to their Partnership Agreements. Districts can include schools as the program progresses based on need. Benton Harbor Area Schools, Detroit Public Schools Community District, the Pontiac City School District and Saginaw City School District will be adding a total of 27 schools to their current Partnership Agreements.

includes 18- and 36-month accountability timelines, and they will be evaluated on the progress toward their goals.

The effectiveness of this program has already been proven through schools that have successfully completed their plans for improvement and saw reflective results. Because of improving academic achievement, MDE has removed 32 schools from the list of identified Priority Schools from previous years. Through the diligent work of the educators and students in those schools, test scores have improved and are expected to continue their positive trends.

MDE will provide resources for the districts to utilize in identifying their needs and a plan to improve: needs-assessment tools, evidence-based practices, draft Partnership Agreement, lists of potential partners and contact information. The districts have 90 days to reach an agreement. If no agreement is reached, the next level of accountability would be implemented.

“It’s encouraging to see schools identifying the needs of their teachers and students, developing strategies to address those needs and showing progress,” said Whiston. “There still is work to do, and I commend their commitment and tenacity to keep improving.” NEXT STEPS Under a Partnership Agreement, the local district remains in total control of its schools with support from MDE and partners. Each agreement

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“This has been a remarkable experience with the current Partnership Districts and helping them to start implementing their improvement strategies,” Whiston said. “We look forward to working with the seven new districts to help them build their Partnership Agreements.”

With multiple partners – including local board members, the intermediate school district, education organizations, business, community members, parents, higher education organizations, foundations – committing to being actively engaged, work will ensue to identify a plan of supports and interventions that will improve student outcomes. With access to support and needed resources that can be used to drive improvement districts can work to make the adjustments needed to help students and teachers achieve at higher level.

NEWS

Post Franklin School Bay City School District MacGregor Elementary Bear Lake Schools Bear Lake High School Benzie County Central Schools Betsie Valley School Carney-Nadeau Public Schools Carney-Nadeau School Cesar Chavez Academy-Elementary Clintondale Community Schools Charles C. McGlinnen School Robbie Hall Parker School Detroit Leadership Academy-Elementary Detroit Public Schools Community District Cooke Elementary Western International High School Francis Reh Public School Academy Grand Rapids Public Schools Coit Arts Academy Dickenson School Hale Area Schools Hale High School Jackson Public Schools McCulloch School Kalamazoo Public Schools Northeastern Elementary

NEW PARTNERSHIP DISTRICTS American International Academy-Elementary Battle Creek Public Schools Ann J. Kellogg School Northwestern Middle School Verona Elementary (Optional) David Ellis Academy Henry Ford Academy: School of Creative Studies-Elementary Lansing Public Schools Attwood School J.W. Sexton High School Gardner Academy (Optional) North School (Optional) Woodcreek Achievement Center (Optional) Mildred C. Wells Preparatory Academy Wayne-Westland Community School District Hoover Elementary School SCHOOLS EXITING PRIORITY SCHOOL STATUS

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Arenac Eastern School District Arenac Eastern High School Battle Creek Montessori Academy Battle Creek Public Schools

PROUD TO BE IN EAST LANSING

Northglade Montessori School Lansing Public School District Cavanaugh School Willow School Mount Clemens Community School District Seminole Academy Muskegon, Public Schools of the City of Marquette Elementary Oak Park, School District of the City of Key Elementary Pepper Elementary Plymouth-Canton Community Schools Starkweather Academy at Fiegel Port Huron Area School District Woodrow Wilson Elementary The James and Grace Lee Boggs School Washington-Parks Academy Lincoln-King Academy Wayne-Westland Community School District Alexander Hamilton Elementary David Hicks School Ami Iceman-Haueter is the Brand Manager at M3 Group. Iceman-Haueter is a graduate of Michigan State University with a bachelors in creative advertising.

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MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY

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Governor Rick Snyder Photo provided

2018 STATE OF THE STATE: MARKING MICHIGAN’S MOMENTUM BY ADAM LANSDELL

What many people would have expected to be the kickoff to an awkward farewell tour came to be a surprising last stand from Gov. Rick Snyder, as he aimed to voice and solidify the conclusion of his time in office with a hint of optimism. Heading into his eighth and final year, Snyder’s Governor’s State of The State Address on Jan. 23 focused on the progress and momentum that Michigan has experienced in the past seven years under his administration. In attendance were notable regional and national figureheads such as Lt. Gov. Brian Calley, Speaker of the House Tom Leonard, Senate Majority Leader Arlan Meekhof, House Minority Leader Sam Singh, Senate Minority Leader Jim Ananich, members of the Supreme Court, members of the Court of Appeals, Attorney General Bill Schuette, Secretary of State Ruth Johnson and various members of Congress. The evening’s address highlighted the state’s achievements in economic infrastructure, 12

education, job growth and talent retention, with Snyder using statistical comparisons of specific areas of interest to make his case. Snyder’s speech delivered refined and enthusiastic vigor and was met with applause by those in attendance. “Folks, we are back, and we are only going to keep going up,” said Snyder. “First of all, private sector job creation. We have created over 540,000 private sector jobs, we rank number one in the Great Lakes States, number six in the nation and to put that number in perspective for you, that is more than the populations of Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Marquette, Traverse City and Muskegon combined; that’s how many jobs we’ve created. We, as government, don’t create the jobs, we create the environment for success.” Despite a myriad of negative instances throughout Snyder’s campaign, Michigan has seen improvement in a considerable amount of areas that are prime initiatives for

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lawmakers and residents alike. For many, it’s hard to see through the haze of polarizing mishaps, but many are ready to turn those mistakes into lessons that will aid in future growth. Snyder’s address respectfully symbolizes that the improvements to the state’s workforce and more are a culmination of the hard work from residents throughout the state, not solely those within congressional decision-making roles. Momentum is something Michigan undoubtedly possesses on paper, with features like Grand Rapids’ booming housing market helping to position Michigan as a place for opportunity from a nationwide perspective. Snyder alluded to this success on a grand scale by speaking on Michigan’s first year of residential retention and talent attraction in decades. “Last year, for the first time since the turn of the century, more people came into Michigan than left Michigan,” Snyder explained.

NEWS

The true cause for celebration lies within the state’s momentous and hopefully sustainable unemployment rate achievements in 2017. When the billionaire political rookie took office in in 2011, the state's unemployment rate sat at a nationwide high of 10.7 percent; today, it rests more positively amongst the best in the nation at 4.7 percent. For the first time in 10 years and after consecutive years of job loss, Michigan gained 88,500 jobs during Snyder’s first year in office and the state has since gone on to create well over 438,000 new jobs. Through the 53-minute address, Snyder also highlighted areas of improvement within the education sector to shine a light on the next generation that will seemingly keep the momentum going. “I want to talk about some of the focus initiatives we have done that will truly make a long-term difference to the young people of our state,” said Snyder. “These don’t happen overnight but making a commitment to these programs — they will make a huge difference to our children’s future.”

Such program highlights included an update to the Great State Readiness Program for preschool, which became the largest state preschool in the entire nation upon its launch in 2015. The program has more than doubled its number of openings, from 28,000 to 64,000, to better facilitate economically disadvantaged kids. In addition, the state is headed toward a technologically driven future for learners who will one day continue to lead the charge in areas of innovation. One way of doing this is by encouraging more school districts to engage with FIRST Robotics, an after-school program that takes place from elementary school through high school. Since its introduction, FIRST Robotics programs have brought together more than 500 high school teams — equating to more teams than California and New York combined, where technology innovation and development are a core area of state emphasis. In addition to praising aspects of Michigan’s history, Snyder was quick to make certain that there was still plenty of work to be

done, despite our state arguably being in its best condition in nearly a decade. Snyder brought attention to Michigan’s needs in the sectors of education, sexual assault and violence awareness, wildlife and invasive species protection, affordability of secondary education, water infrastructure, the government's commitment to fiscal responsibility and more. As opposing Democrats and Republicans clamor to hear the words of the man holding a position they may hope to call their own someday, one thing was made clear: By working together and acting responsibly on behalf of one another, Michiganders are destined for a future that extends well beyond an eight-year expiration date. Adam Lansdell is a Grand Valley State University alumnus, and currently a Communications Specialist with M3 Group of Lansing. With a passion for all things creative it comes as no surprise that he’s also a musician, movie buff and graphic designer. Adam spends his down time biking, and spending too much of his personal income on concert tickets or vinyl records.

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New Health Care Campus Coming to Lansing Photos provided by McLaren

MCLAREN’S $450M

COMMITMENT TO THE

FUTURE OF LANSING

BY OMAR SOFRADZIJA

A state of the art medical center. A magnet to attract and retain the best doctors and specialists. A strengthened bond between a care provider and a research university. Economic development opportunities for South Lansing. Those are just a few of the major benefits expected to result from McLaren Health Care’s (McLaren) plan to build a $450 million campus adjacent to Michigan State University (MSU), expanding its existing partnership with the university on research, education and clinical services. “I think the impact is this: It’s very rare in the United States for a brand-new hospital to be built from the ground up,” said Bob Trezise, president and CEO of the Lansing Economic Area Partnership. “A $450 million investment like that – the biggest capital investment ever approved by McLaren corporation – is a signal that Lansing’s economy and Lansing’s future is very, very hot.” The 240-bed facility at MSU’s University Corporate Research Park between Collins Road and U.S. Route 127, which will house more than 1,000 physicians, researchers, educators and other staff, is expected to open in late 2021 according to McLaren. It will include a cancer center, ambulatory care 14

center and facilities for health care services, education and research. “This is an extraordinary opportunity to collaborate with MSU to redesign and elevate health care for a region and the state for generations to come,” Philip A. Incarnati, president and CEO of McLaren Health Care, said in a prepared statement. “Our partnership will transform health care delivery to support a world-class medical experience and advance pioneering medical research.” The new campus will replace McLaren’s two current facilities in Lansing on Pennsylvania Avenue and Greenlawn Avenue, portions of which are nearing 90 years old, according to McLaren. “The hospital is moving from one location to another location, but it remains in the City of Lansing, so the economic impact on the city is only a net gain because we can redevelop what will be the former hospital sites and get those on the tax rolls, maybe, and create jobs there in addition to having the new hospital and its existing jobs,” Trezise said. The expansion of the McLaren-MSU partnership is “huge for the university and the connections between research and development at MSU and at McLaren that are going to

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occur, including all of us attempting to build a medical device and medical manufacturing industry around the new hospital,” said Trezise. McLaren-MSU collaborations will include the sharing of clinical research data, physician and researcher recruitment, cooperation on clinical trials and other partnerships. “It means that we – we being Lansing and MSU – are going to be home to one of the most advanced health care facilities in America. That is going to be incredibly attractive to new doctors, specialists and students,” Trezise said. “Secondly, it’s going to be a great way for us to attract new, medicalrelated businesses to our community, and thirdly it will help MSU attract new professors and doctors into their schools of medicine.” An estimated 2,500 construction-related jobs will be created to build the hospital campus. “I think it’s another great anchor for South Lansing. We have an opportunity to redevelop the former hospital sites that are really deep in South Lansing, really in the neighborhoods,” Trezise said. “I think we have a really great chance to interact with neighborhoods and to come up with great ideas and plans to redevelop those properties, and make sure

New Health Care Campus Coming to Lansing

#RedesignHealthCare

NEWS

mclaren.org/redesignhealthcare

cancer center both lift us to compete better with those two factors,” Trezise said. “I want to thank McLaren and I want to continue to congratulate Sparrow. We’re a global economy, this is a global move and they picked us, and not another community, for this investment. It says a lot about our very prosperous future.”

they’re done correctly for South Lansing and for the future.” Trezise said community leaders are just starting the process of identifying the next uses for McLaren’s two older hospital sites. “My gut feeling is that the number one use is what it’s used for now, which is medical services, medicalrelated industries. I think that those are probably the strongest possibilities,” Trezise said. “I think that a campus setting lends itself to technology companies, possibly those types of [businesses] being interested in the property and other sort of office uses.” Benefits will extend far beyond South Lansing, as the new hospital site sits at a junction between the cities of Lansing and East Lansing, the MSU campus and Lansing Township.

For more on the project, go online to mclaren.org/ redesignhealthcare.

Higher wages and the presence of multiple health systems have often pulled doctors and specialists away from mid-Michigan and toward Grand Rapids and Metro Detroit. “Those are two huge competitive advantages over us, so I believe this system and Sparrow’s

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.

“The University Corporate Research Park property is unique because it is situated at the crossroads of South Lansing and Michigan State University,” Daniel Medrano, vice president of facility management for McLaren Health Care, said in a prepared statement. “It’s not often that a development of this magnitude can have such a positive impact on so many municipalities and organizations.” The new McLaren campus, along with Sparrow Hospital’s recently opened Herbert-Herman Cancer Center near downtown Lansing, is expected to make mid-Michigan a more hospitable place for doctors and specialists to work and stay. “Competition always results, we hope, in wage pressures,” Trezise said. “We hope that doctors and specialists are probably paid at a higher level. We hope that doctors feel that taking jobs here is not a one-and-done scenario, that if it doesn’t work out they would have an alternative to look at in our region, and so we’re hoping all of that creates a more robust wage environment and helps us keep and attract even more specialists within our region.” “As everyone knows in our region, there are times when you have to leave the area to get certain kinds of specialty medical care. Of course, we want to plug those leaks as best we can,” Trezise said. L

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2018 ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS JUDGES The Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Award judges are a critical part of making each year’s event a success. Together, the panel spends hours reviewing nominee submissions and discussing information to pinpoint entrepreneurs that are positively impacting the community. This year, we’ve added two new award categories, making the selection for nominees even more specific. Narrowing down the field to just seven winners is never an easy task. Judges are asked to consider how each nominee has made an impact in helping to grow our community. The panel has committed a tremendous amount of time and has had to make hard decisions in the process.

Waltz has a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Michigan State University (MSU), where she was a member of the Honors College and the international honors business fraternity Beta Alpha Psi. She lives in Mason, Mich. with her husband Mike. They have five children — all of whom are Mason High School graduates and MSU students or alumni. A strong supporter of Mason Public Schools, Waltz serves as committee chair for the recent, successful school bond proposal, and previously as treasurer and board member of the Mason Public Schools Foundation. She is also active in her church, having spent three years on the finance council and five years teaching religious education to fifthgrade students.

CHRIS WALTZ

MELODY WARZECHA

As executive vice president of finance and CFO, Chris Waltz, CPA, is responsible for Dart Container’s (Dart) tax, treasury, accounting, risk management, information technology and WALTZ procurement departments, in addition to serving as part of Dart’s executive leadership team.

Melody Warzecha is the vice president of commercial banking at Union Bank, a Michiganbased community that provides financial services to individuals, businesses and farms. As the vice president WARZECHA of commercial banking, she works to create solutions and build relationships with her clients.

Waltz began her career at Ernst & Young’s Lansing office, where she became a certified public accountant during her three years with the company. In 1992, she joined Dart’s accounting department and later assumed overall responsibility for the department when she was promoted to controller. In 2012, she became Dart’s first chief financial officer. In 2014, she was named executive vice president.

Warzecha received her bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance from the University of Michigan and an MBA from Central Michigan University. Before coming to work at Union Bank, she worked in commercial banking at another financial institution for 15 years. Prior to that, she worked as a controller and accounting consultant for 10 years.

Chief Financial Officer, Dart Container

VP of Commercial Banking, Union Bank

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“The thing I like about Union Bank is that supporting the community and being involved is really important to us,” said Warzecha. “We really want people to succeed.” Warzecha is also involved in the Lansing community as treasurer of the Lansing Rotary Club and the Lansing Rotary Club Foundation, as well as board member of the St. Gerard School PTO and vice president of her local Alumni Club board. She is proud to serve as a judge for Greater Lansing Business Monthly’s Entrepreneurial Awards for her third year, and she is excited for the opportunity to support area entrepreneurs. “One thing that has become very evident to me is that Lansing appreciates entrepreneurs,” Warzecha said. “I’m proud to be able to represent Union Bank as a judge and support business people in the Lansing area.” If she could give any advice to entrepreneurs in the area, it would be to have a dream and a vision, stick to it and remember that there are members of the Lansing community who want to support entrepreneurs. “There are always people in the community who are willing to support you,” said Warzecha. “Whether it’s friends, family or your trusted advisors, there are always people willing to help.” Warzecha lives in St. Johns with her husband, Richard, and their son, Samuel.

STEVE PIESKO

Director, Audit Principal, Maner Costerisan Steve Piesko joined Maner Costerisan in 1999. He currently serves as a member of its board of directors, as well as the director of marketing and chair of the Education Services Niche. Piesko specializes in consulting, strategic

FEATURE

business advisory services and the auditing of closely held businesses, nonprofits and school districts. He graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s and master’s in PIESKO accounting and finance, and he’s a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants and the past treasurer of The First Tee of Mid-Michigan. Piesko currently lives in DeWitt, Mich. with his wife, Missy and daughter, Cate.

BO GARCIA

Dean of Community Education and Workforce Development, LCC Bo Garcia is dean of the Community Education and Workforce Development division at Lansing Community College (LCC). He manages corporate training, small business development, GARCIA community education, continuing education and extension centers. Garcia was formally executive director of the Business and Community Institute at LCC, where he was charged with creating business and workforce development initiatives between LCC and regional employers.

Garcia has a wonderful 15-year-old daughter Annie, who he absolutely adores and loves to spend time with.

MICHAEL DEBRI

Community President, Huntington Bank Michael J. Debri is the Lansing community president and team leader of core business banking at Huntington National Bank. Debri has served as Lansing community president since DEBRI November 2009 and has led core business banking since February 2014. Debri began his banking career in 1997 as a credit analyst after graduating from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in finance. In 1999, he transitioned into a commercial relationship officer. He’s spent his entire career serving existing and developing commercial banking clients. In 2005, Debri became team lead of investment commercial real estate in the Jackson and Lansing markets at Fifth Third Bank. He joined Huntington Bank, formerly Citizens Bank, in 2007 as the senior commercial relationship officer in Lansing. Some of Debri’s current and past board positions have been held with Lansing Downtown YMCA, Great Lakes Capital Fund Art of Leadership, Junior Achievement, the Mid-Michigan Entrepreneur Institute and the Mid-Michigan Alumni Association.

In his previous position as regional director of the Small Business Development Center, Garcia counseled over 2,000 business clients on areas ranging from startup expansion to crisis management.

Debri has been married to Erin since 2001 and has two sons: Andrew, 14, and Bryce, 12.

Garcia has also authored “Business Matters,” a weekly business column in the Lansing State Journal, for over five years. He’s been published in Entrepreneur magazine and numerous other business publications, and presents on various business issues regionally.

Scott Norman is the vice president of business development for Physicians Health Plan (PHP), a division of Sparrow Health System. PHP is an award-winning health plan that provides insurance for hundreds of employers across mid-Michigan. In his role, Norman is responsible for strategic planning, sales, marketing, and product and market development for PHP. He will also oversee expanding collaborative relationships across Michigan as PHP potentially expands into new markets.

He has also served as adjunct faculty at Davenport University’s College of Business Administration. He holds an MBA from Northwood University, a Masters of Public Administration from Western Michigan University and a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University.

SCOTT NORMAN Vice President, Physicians Health Plan

Norman has nearly 20 years of experience in health care insurance; his most recent experience was at Priority Health, where he was vice president of senior markets. In that role, he was NORMAN responsible for overseeing the 4.5 Star Medicare Advantage plan that had $1.2-billion in annual revenue and covered over 140,000 members across Michigan. He previously served as Priority Health’s vice president of sales and client services, responsible for commercial sales and customer retention for over 7,000 employer clients and 400,000 enrolled members. Prior to joining Priority Health, Norman was the senior director of insurance services for the Michigan Chamber of Commerce. In that role, he was responsible for leading the Employee Benefits Insurance division that provided coverage for hundreds of employers across Michigan. In addition, he developed a number of proprietary insurance products and strategic solutions to help employers reduce their employee-benefit costs. Norman is a Michigan State University graduate and has been a resident of East Lansing since 1997.

LYNN HENLEY Director, Rehmann

Lynn Henley is director of client services and business development with Rehmann, based out of the Lansing office where she’s responsible for new business development and HENLEY improving client services. In her role as client ambassador, Henley conducts client-satisfaction assessments, participates in brainstorming sessions for client service improvements and resolves service challenges. She works with the Rehmann client service executives to develop strategic plans that meet clientdefined expectations for performance and service, maintaining an objective role to ensure Rehmann is exceeding their clients’ expectations.

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Prior to joining Rehmann in 2016, Henley served as vice president of the business development office and a community consultant with PNC Bank. With more than 20 years of providing solutions for her clients in the banking and finance industry, she actually began her career as a computer programmer in the international division of a Michigan-based bank. She also spent five years at American Red Cross, managing multiple facets including donor recruitment and the manufacturing of biochemical productions.

PATTY BARNAS

Lansing Market President, First National Bank Leading the Lansing team is Patty Barnas, a veteran banking professional in the area. In addition to lending to many different industries, Barnas also specializes in health care and higher education financing, BARNAS understanding that helping clients to secure financing and fulfill their business goals is about trust. She has worked diligently to earn the trust of her commercial clients by providing exemplary service and financial solutions for over three decades. Barnas graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Management and Organizational Development from Spring Arbor University. Her commitment to her community is evident through her involvement with local organizations. She is on the board of Sparrow Hospital and currently chairs the Sparrow Hospital Foundation. Barnas is also a board member of The National Association of Career Women, is incoming president on the board of The Arts Council of Greater Lansing and is involved with the University Club of Michigan State University.

CHRIS THELEN

Community Affairs Manager, Consumers Energy Chris G. Thelen is the Community Affairs manager at Consumers Energy. He manages community relations in three counties in the Lansing area — Eaton, Ingham and Ionia. Consumers Energy is one of the nation’s largest combination utilities, providing electric and natural gas services to nearly 6.7 million of Michigan’s 10 million residents, or 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

Thelen joined Consumers Energy 25 years ago as a writer in corporate communications to support marketing and employee communications. Prior to joining the company, Thelen worked THELEN as a copywriter for advertising agencies in Midland, Detroit and Cleveland. He graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and started his career writing advertisements for John Deere in Moline, Illinois.   Consumers Energy has been a long-time supporter of economic development and is the reason why Thelen actively participates in economic development in the Lansing area.   “The Lansing area is fortunate to have such a strong support network that can help entrepreneurs bring their ideas to reality,” said Thelen. “With tens of thousands of college students coming into the Lansing region each year, I hope this network can encourage students interested in starting their own business to locate here.”   This is Thelen’s third year on the Entrepreneurial Awards judges panel. He knows how important it is to recognize the people who have the courage to start a business and grow it from the ground up.   “I am always inspired by the stories behind the award recipients and what it took for them to get their business started,” said Thelen. “Hopefully, these stories will encourage others to consider starting their own business.”

JEFF JACKSON

Chief Lending Officer, MSU Federal Credit Union Jeff Jackson is the chief lending officer for the MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU). Based in East Lansing, MSUFCU offers a full range of personal and business-related financial services to Michigan State JACKSON University and Oakland University faculty, staff, students, alumni association members and their families. They also offer membership to the employees

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of a variety of select employee groups such as the State of Michigan, Sparrow Health Systems, and Child and Family Charities. Jackson’s primary role is to provide financial solutions for business members in order to meet their lending and cash management needs. Lending services include financing for commercial real estate and the medical profession. He’s also responsible for home mortgage lending to help all members conveniently finance their dream of home ownership. Jackson loves the Greater Lansing region. His daughter Logan is a junior at East Lansing High School and both of his sons, Josh and Justin, attend Michigan State University. Jackson met his wife Lori at Ernst and Young in public accounting, and she has taught accounting and auditing at MSU for the last 18 years. Jackson has been with MSUFCU for 20 years and loves that he has been able to serve the community for that entire time. Jackson is excited to be a part of MSUFCU and the Lansing area. MSUFCU has a core mission of supporting their members and communities, and supporting entrepreneurship is a simple extension of that core mission. MSUFCU has participated on the Entrepreneurial Awards judges panel for many years. “We love working with people who are passionate and helping them attain their dreams,” said Jackson. “The Entrepreneurial Awards are a great way to showcase local talent and to get excited about the future of the greater Lansing region.”

DON MCNABB CEO, Principal Scientist and Co-founder of Triterra

Don McNabb is CEO, principal scientist and cofounder of Triterra: a Lansing-based consulting firm that specializes in brownfield development, environmental consulting and MCNABB natural resources management services. He brings over 20 years of experience in the industry and is responsible for overseeing implementation of the company’s strategic direction, while continually promoting the firm’s core focus and values. McNabb routinely assists clients with the implementation of environmental due diligence and contaminant

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management strategies while keeping their best interests in mind. McNabb has provided numerous creative, effective and economical solutions for real estate acquisition, contaminant investigation/remediation, new development and brownfield redevelopment projects throughout Michigan and the Great Lakes region. McNabb has a great appreciation for the Michigan’s capital region and routinely devotes time and resources to help make our communities better. He serves on the Lansing Economic Area Partnership’s (LEAP) executive committee and Eaton Rapids’ Downtown Development Authority (DDA). As part of revitalization efforts in Eaton Rapids, McNabb became a partner/cofounder of the Eaton Rapids Craft Co., a new restaurant/pub that brings a unique dining experience through quality food, craft beer/ spirits and Michigan wine nestled along the Grand River. McNabb is a resident of Eaton Rapids, where he resides with his wife Erica and their two children: Torin, 6, and Marissa, 4.

“Marketing is immersive; it never leaves you. You find yourself always thinking about it, living it and experiencing marketing because it surrounds us. It permeates our culture. You never know where you might get the next big idea,” said Petersmark. She’s proud to be part of the Lansing business community and its welcoming culture that attracts new businesses and talent. “My grandfather wouldn’t recognize the changes in downtown Lansing since he opened his first store on Washington Square in 1968,” said Petersmark. As a member of the Entrepreneurial Awards’ panel of judges, Petersmark is pleased to be able to help honor the risktakers and dreamers who make up our business community.

DENISE GRAVES

University Relations Director, Entrepreneurship & Innovation at MEDC Graves is the university relations director for the Entrepreneurship & Innovation team at

the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). In this role, she interacts with Michigan’s public universities, key entrepreneurial stakeholders and investors, managing GRAVES programs that support statewide collaboration and the commercialization of early stage technology. Before joining MEDC in October 2011, Graves held sales and business development positions in small and second-stage, hightech companies in Ann Arbor. Her experience includes new business development, channel partner relations, client relations, sales, strategic planning, contract negotiation and management, and public speaking. Graves holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Ferris State University.

DEBBIE PETERSMARK General Sales Manager, WILX Media

As the general sales manager at WILX Media, Debbie Petersmark believes that every company has a story to tell. “Telling a brand’s story is the best part,” Petersmark said. “It’s really at the heart of great PETERSMARK advertising.” At WILX, her team works with local companies to help them tell their stories and grow their business. She comes from a local family business, Holden-Reid Clothiers, so the topic of entrepreneurship is important to her and helping local entrepreneurs every day is the best part of her job. An East Lansing native, Petersmark attended Indiana University. Following graduation, she spent 10 years at the Sparrow Foundation as the manager of the Children’s Miracle Network, raising funds for the Regional Children’s Center and producing an annual telethon. She joined WILX in 2000 as an account executive, becoming general sales manager in 2014. She is a self-proclaimed marketing junkie.

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WELCOME TO THE INNER SANCTUM The Greater Lansing Business Monthly is embarking on a series of articles to reveal for our readers the personal offices of many of our region’s executive leaders. The executive office in any company is a unique place. It stands as the emblem of the company’s corporate culture, yet it’s often combined with the personal likes, memorabilia and the management style of the executive who inhabits it. While sitting in a leader’s office, it’s always fun to scan the nooks and crannies of the shelves and the surfaces. You’ll be sure to discover little treasures hidden in the corners – family photos, gifts, mementos, books and other personal things, all supplying clues to the broader personality of the leader. For a typical executive, he or she will spend more time in the office than he or she does at home. It’s truly a home away from home. Therefore, it must be a place where he or she feels comfortable, but it must also project the mission and vision of the company. In some cases, the executive office is a showpiece for the company. A lavish place to display corporate successes and achievements with expensive furniture, beautiful design, artwork and computer equipment. Sitting in the impressive offices of many Lansing businessmen or women, you might imagine yourself in New York or Chicago. We also find evidence that the workplace is changing. For some leaders, the office is a private place, meant for personal work only. When they meet with employees, customers or vendors, they do so in conference rooms which are outfitted with the appropriate communications and technology geared for slide presentations, video conferencing, group phone calls and the like. Few colleagues ever see their personal offices. Also, since electronic communications are so ubiquitous, executives see colleagues and customers far less frequently.

THE INNER

SANCTUM BY KEN GLICKMAN

KEVIN V.B. SCHUMACHER MANAGING PARTNER Glasssen, Rhead, McLean, Campbell & Schumacher, Attorneys-at-Law

Kevin Schumacher grew up in the upper peninsula of Michigan, amongst grand old Victorian houses. He’s a Yooper and proud of it – he even flaunts it now and then. So, when he was looking for a suitable place to house his small law firm, those fond memories of the UP neighborhoods played a big role in his decision of where to settle. Schumacher, a lanky, affable and independent guy, fell in love with a 140-year-old property in the Cherry Hill historic neighborhood on the south end of downtown Lansing 20 years ago. It seemed to fit his personal style and the needs of his company to a tee. He and his family immediately dug in and began restoring the place. They hired a colorist to paint the building with a palette that was approved by the Lansing Historic

Commission. And he lovingly restored the interior, making the most of the old wooden floors and the stunning staircase which dominates the view as you first walk into the office. Antique area rugs cover the floors and imposing furniture, including a judge’s table with oversize chairs, fill the space. As Schumacher says, there’s a story behind every piece in the building. As an example, in his personal office is a cast iron pool table he bought in Saginaw, Mich. and underneath the table is an eyecatching zebra hide/ rug that was given to him by a client that used the gift as a payment for law services. She shot the zebra herself.

As photographer Mary Gajda and I met with our region’s top leaders, we saw a fascinating array of personal workplaces – each one different – filled with stories and unique artifacts. So, travel with us to the inner sanctums of our corporate leaders in the mid-Michigan area. Learn about their styles and their interests. And if you have ideas for other executives that should be profiled, please let us know. 20

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Schumacher's office featuring Judge's table with oversize chairs Photo by Mary Gajda

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Stunning staircase at office entry Photo by Mary Gajda

Schumacher standing next to his cast iron pool table Photo by Mary Gajda

Although Schumacher made a significant financial investment in this historic property, he feels that the real value of that investment is just that “I get to work here every day.”

GLBM: WHY DO YOU LIKE YOUR OFFICE? I grew up in the UP among Victorian houses from the mining days. The firm needed to move, so I looked for a place to meet the firm’s needs. I didn’t want to be in a cubicle next to a 7-Eleven, with clients coming in with Slurpees in their hands. The law should be special. When you’re meeting with a lawyer, it should be an experience. I like the fireplace. It keeps me warm. My clients feel comfortable here. If they haven’t

been to a lawyer before, they notice that this is really a home, with the comforts of an office, but it’s really a home.

DID YOU HAVE A ROLE IN DESIGNING THIS OFFICE? I had help. When I bought the building, it was colored Pepto Bismol pink. Because it is a historic building, I had to hire a color consultant. All the colors we used had to be approved by the Lansing Historic Commission. My daughter reminded me that we built this office before it was cool to be in downtown Lansing.

ARE THERE PERSONAL ITEMS IN YOUR OFFICE? That picture over the fireplace of two people in an old canoe

on a lake at sunset - that’s me at the helm and my wife, Myrtelisa, sailing on Lake Superior in a 1936 canoe that we restored, which had been my dad’s canoe. Early in my career, a senior partner told me, ‛Make sure your office has a picture of your family and put that picture across from where you work, so you look across the room and you know who you're really working for. This is why you’re here. You have clients who you provide services to, but you work to support your family.’

HOW DOES THIS OFFICE HELP YOU IN BECOMING A BETTER LEADER? I believe this office helps me to become a good civic leader. Many nonprofits have meetings here, some folks conduct interviews here and others have parties.

Zebra hide/rug given to Schumacher by client as payment for law services Photo by Mary Gajda

Picture of Schumacher and wife, LansingBusinessNews.com Myrtelisa sailing on Lake Superior Photo by Mary Gajda

Clobes' office at MSUFCU headquarters Photo by Mary Gajda

APRIL CLOBES PRESIDENT AND CEO MSU Federal Credit Union

When the MSU Federal Credit Union moved from its cramped space on Michigan State University’s campus 10 years ago into its gleaming headquarters on the north edge of East Lansing, the glass-covered building was almost empty. Employees complained that they were sitting in large empty areas, far from anyone else.

Since then, the growth of the credit union has been so strong that not only did they fill up that space, but they built a second headquarters a stone’s throw away from the first one. April Clobes, president and CEO, was promoted to the top job at the credit union about three years ago, and her office is on the top floor of the older headquarters building. Nestled into one of the corners of the building, the

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Four-chair discussion area Photo by Mary Gajda

Gear clock Photo by Mary Gajda

office’s wall of windows looks over the spacious parking lot and all the lands beyond. It’s a generous office, complete with a small conference table, a four-chair discussion area plus the executive desk facing the door. The office projects a corporate image and is tidy and organized. But if you look carefully, you can clearly see many objects that makes it April Clobes’ office; small mementos on the shelves, photos and, of course, the green baseball bat leaning against the wall with a story to tell.

FEATURE

I love art. You can see the Chagall prints that are a copy of his stained-glass windows from the Chicago Art Institute that a friend bought for me. There’s a large picture that we got from the East Lansing Art Fair. There’s a funny story about that piece. A sponsors of the Art Fair, the credit union is given one work of art from the fair at its conclusion. As I was visiting the fair, I saw this work and bought it for myself. When the fair closed that year and they gave us the one work of art as sponsors, it was the same piece I bought earlier. Ironic. I’m an avid reader, so I like books and book accessories — hence the book end sculpture of a bear reading a book. I also love watches and clocks, and I have this large clock shaped like a gear to remind me about the time during meetings – it makes me pay attention. I like old school kind of stuff like that.

DID YOU DESIGN THE OFFICE?

WHY DO YOU LIKE THE OFFICE? It’s a reflection of me. I didn’t pick the office, I inherited it from my predecessor, Patrick McPharlin. It’s open and inviting, so it's conducive to a lot of different work. My work desk is good for me. I have a tack board next to my desk, so I can see things visually. That’s left over from my marketing days. There’s also a table for collaboration and for casual conversations.

Gift from Clobes' brother Photo by Ken Glickman

that remind me of the good community work that we’re doing. Also, I have family photos of places we’ve gone. One really special aspect to the office is that shiny green Spartan baseball bat in the corner. When I got the CEO job, my brother bought that bat for me and etched the phrase Every day is an interview, into the wood. That is a phrase that I tell everyone as a key to career success. That’s special to me.

Ken Glickman has been a free lance writer for many years, writing for national magazines as well as music and theater pieces for the Lansing State Journal. Also, Ken has been Sr. Talent Manager for the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) and now runs his own executive search and coaching business, Glickman Associates. k.samuelglickman@gmail.com

As I said, I inherited it, but I changed things around. I moved everything around, so my desk faces the door and the collaboration areas are more open. My door is almost never closed. If I had my preference, I would be on a floor with more employees. At this point, we’re off the beaten path, so employees don’t walk past here unless they’re here for a special reason.

WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT THIS OFFICE? It’s a conglomeration of things. The credit union is involved in lots of community activities and there are many mementos

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Mementos in Clobes' office Photo by Mary Gajda

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VISUAL BREAKDOWN

REAL ESTATE TRENDS AND FORECASTS FOR 2018 THE FORECAST

EXPECT RATES TO INCREASE,

In 2018, the real estate market will continue to advance with fresh developments. Buyers can expect to have more influence as the housing supply will finally catch up with buyer demand, according to a report by Realtor.com. More millennials will be looking to move out of their parents’ house and into a place of their own.

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MORE PURCHASES OF VACATION HOMES With the tax reform bill adding more cash into the bank accounts of wealthy Americans, vacation home purchases will rise. "The new tax plan will likely spur interest in second homes, such as vacation homes for those who can afford them. Interest rates and interest deductions are not as important, as many of these purchases are cash transactions," said Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty in Birmingham, Ala. "Economic optimism will fuel this sector of the real estate market."

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VISUAL BREAKDOWN

TINY HOUSES GROW IN POPULARITY According to Nathaniel Kunes of AppFolio Inc., “Tiny apartments and mobile living will be a solution to increasing housing density in overpopulated areas. This will become more of a norm in big cities and will drive up operating income on existing apartment stock. This likely won't have a huge effect on 2018, but it will over the next decade.”

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Compiled by Mary Gajda | Graphics by Heather Thielking | Sources: Forbes.com, realestate.usnews.com, the street.com, cnbc.com

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CBRE|MARTIN WE BUILD ON ADVANTAGE CBRE builds advantage by leveraging all the resources of the largest real estate ﬁrm in the world with local experts.

ADVANTAGE BUILDER:

Eric F. Rosekrans, CCIM, CPM Senior Vice President

ric started with the company in 1976 as a maintenance technician, while he was a freshman at MSU. His talent and grit rapidly elevated him through a successful career in property management to a top-ranking position as the leading office property advisor in Mid-Michigan. Working on over 75 office transactions a year, Eric advises clients on a range of engagements, from lease renewals and expansions to headquarter relocations around the Part large of the complicated CBRE affiliate network globe. Eric has personally negotiated over $500 Million in lease and sale transactions, and he represents a portfolio of office property exceeding 10 million square feet. Part of the CBRE affiliate network

“My first step has always been to listen and understand my clients’ needs.”

cultivate strong relationships with most of the major office users in the area. “The industry requires a consultative mindset, rather than a transactional one,” he explains. “I think of my assignments as engagements, not deals. It’s a privilege to consult with my clients, and to help them create successful work environments for their employees.” “Volunteering for local non-profits is as important as it is fulfilling.” Equally important to Eric is making time to spend with his family, and giving back to the community. Over the years, Eric has served on advisory boards for numerous community-based organizations including Kiwanis, American Cancer Society, Ele’s Place and Capital Area Humane Society. “I love my work, but volunteering for local non-profits is as important as it is fulfilling. I believe that everyone privileged enough to make a living here should give some of their time and talents to those less fortunate. Together, we can make a difference.”

ADVANTAGE: CBRE|MARTIN

Throughout his tenure, Eric has been calm, focused and pragmatic. “My first step has always been to listen and understand my clients’ needs,” he said. Part of the CBRE affiliate network “Next, I think innovatively, sometimes by collaborating with other CBRE advisors across markets and service lines. Finally, I act practically, always putting my clients first.” This philosophy has enabled Eric to Part of the CBRE affiliate network

“Eric’s local market knowledge and transactional insight, coupled with CBRE’s nationwide resources, give us the advantage we need to make financially sound real estate decisions across the United States.” ~ Dennis Blue Vice President, Corporate Support Services, Jackson

+1 517 351 2200 www.cbrelansing.com @CBREmartin

CBREaffiliate Afﬁliatenetwork network PartPart of of thethe CBRE

CBRE #1 in Commercial Real Estate Worldwide 26

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Servicing approximately

GLOBAL ADVANTAGE

CBRE

92% OF THE FORTUNE 100

WORLDWIDE LEADER IN REAL ESTATE SERVICES

NYSE: CBG

$322.2B

7,450

#1 • Leasing

real estate brokers

• Investment sales

5.2 B SF

of property and corporate facilities managed

• Outsourcing • Appraisal and valuation • Commercial Mortgage brokerage and servicing firm

$42 B

of development projects

500+

MARCUS & MILLICHAP

ICORE GLOBAL

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JLL

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Boji Tower

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5000 W. Saginaw

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COVER Mary Jo DeHaven, a licensed Realtor for almost 25 years Photo by Mary Gajda

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COVER

AS INVENTORY DROPS, GREATER LANSING REAL ESTATE MARKET

SWINGS TO THE SELLER’S SIDE BY MARK MEYER

On the most recent installment of the midMichigan real estate drama, “As the Market Turns,” house hunters in the corridors of Ingham, Clinton and Eaton counties are finding inventory significantly tighter compared to a year ago. Which, if you’re a seller, tighter inventory can be a great thing. Buyers on the other hand are faced with fewer options in their price range and longer searches for the types of homes that fit their requirements. Whether you're looking to buy or sell a home in 2018 — or find the perfect rental — it helps to know what you're up against. According to a recent report in U.S. News, real estate experts say timing will be paramount for homebuyers in the coming months, while sellers will likely have an easier time making a successful deal. Meanwhile, renters may find more amenities and negotiating power. Mary Jo DeHaven, a licensed realtor for almost 25 years that is currently an agent with Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood (CBHB), has lived in the Greater Lansing area for most of her life and is familiar with how the local market ebbs and flows. “Prices are inching up, which is great for sellers as it provides equity for the purchase of their next home — whether they are moving up or downsizing,” said DeHaven. “For the homebuyer, the Lansing area is still one of the most affordable in the country, and interest rates remain low. “The only negative in the market is the low inventory. We have buyers looking and they cannot find what they want. That pushes those that can afford it to new construction, which is on the rise as well.” CBHB’s 2017 market report for the fourth quarter in Greater Lansing provided a stark

ACCORDING TO A RECENT REPORT IN U.S. NEWS, REAL ESTATE EXPERTS SAY TIMING WILL BE PARAMOUNT FOR HOMEBUYERS IN THE COMING MONTHS, WHILE SELLERS WILL LIKELY HAVE AN EASIER TIME MAKING A SUCCESSFUL DEAL.

contrast, for example, when compared with housing numbers from 12 months ago: • Units sold: 1,443 (2017); 1,395 (2016) • Value sold: $225,996,888 (2017); $201,436,605 (2016) • Average days on market: 44 (2017); 52 (2016) • Average sold price: $156,616 (2017); $144,399 (2016) • Median sold price: $143,163 (2017); $132,401 (2016) • List price vs. sold price: 81.09 percent (2017); 84.36 percent (2016) • Average pended list price vs. sold price: 97.71 percent (2017); 97.59 percent (2016) • Available listings: 1,045 (2017); 1,556 (2016) • Market surplus 1.17 months (2017); 2.35 months (2016) “I’d say, it is very safe to buy and begin gaining equity for yourself, rather than your landlord,” DeHaven added. With tight seller's markets being the leading narrative on homebuying over the past few years, Michigan residents — like many Americans — are unsure about their ability to buy a home, according to a recent survey of

2,000 adults published by Trulia, a real estate information company. According to the U.S. News report, only 25 percent of those who responded believe that 2018 will be a better time to buy a home than 2017. High rents hinder would-be first-time buyers’ opportunities to save, while interest rates are expected to rise, and home prices continue to swell in midlevel housing throughout the U.S. “It’s difficult to save up for a down payment,” Ralph McLaughlin, chief economist for Trulia, told U.S. News. Lisa Ramont, agent for The Lisas with Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood, believes it makes sense to buy if you are in a financial position to do so. “Renters typically pay a quarter of their income in rent,” Ramont said. “It’s simply more expensive with no tangible payoff. The current market is safe for buyers, but timing is going to be paramount when buying this year. Buyers must be diligent and keep a close eye out for new properties coming out on the market.” Trulia anticipates the homeownership rate — nearly 65 percent as of 2017’s third quarter, according to the U.S. Census Bureau — to L

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“IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2018, INVENTORY CONTINUES TO REMAIN EXTREMELY LOW, SO SELLERS ARE IN A GOOD POSITION,” WEBBER SAID. “LOW INTEREST RATES CONTINUE TO BE AN ADVANTAGE FOR BUYERS. continue the slight upward trend. Interested buyers will have to keep a close eye on new properties coming to the market. It will also be imperative for buyers to have their financing in order and tap attentive real estate agents, to help make an appealing offer on a house, as there will likely be more than one offer on available homes in many markets. Meghan Webber, CEO of the Greater Lansing Association of Realtors (GLAR), agrees with DeHaven that inventory continues to be an issue across all three counties. “A balanced supply, meaning it doesn’t favor a seller or a buyer, lasts around seven 30

months,” Webber said. “We are at around a two- to three-month supply. It is an extremely favorable seller’s market.” Webber cited the following GLAR housing numbers from 2017: • In Ingham County, sales volume was up 5.5 percent, and prices increased by 6.3 percent. The price per square foot was up nearly 9 percent, while month supply dropped by 41 percent, indicating a more favorable seller’s market. • In Clinton County, sales volume dropped 10.6 percent, while prices increased by 7 percent. The price per square foot showed a healthy increase of 24.4

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percent, while month supply fell 3.3 percent — also a more favorable seller’s market. • In Eaton County, sales volume and price per square foot were flat, though prices rose by 3.6 percent. Month supply dropped by nearly 11 percent. “In the first quarter of 2018, inventory continues to remain extremely low, so sellers are in a good position,” Webber said. “Low interest rates continue to be an advantage for buyers. I think it’s safe to say that most sellers will be in a positive-equity position, but there are always exceptions and pocket areas in each county that have not seen property values return to early 2000 values. “It appears, at least for the first half of this year, that inventory (for existing homes) will remain low, and new construction will struggle to keep up with demand,” said Webber. 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.

COVER

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Photo by Mary Gajda

BY MARY GAJDA | PHOTO BY MARY GAJDA

KELLY HUDE

Real estate agent with RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals

Kelly Hude has been a licensed real estate agent with RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals (RE/MAX) of Lansing since 2005. Hude has a paralegal background, but her real estate career began in 1999 in Seattle, before she returned to her hometown of Mason, Mich. in 2003. She worked with TMN Builders for two years before moving on to RE/MAX, where she now provides residential services for Greater Lansing.

HOW MANY REALTORS DO YOU THINK ARE IN GREATER LANSING? A little over a thousand. When I first joined in 2003 we had around 1,700, but when the market took a hit, the number dropped. I believe that number is rebounding now.

HOW DO YOU COMPETE WITH OVER A THOUSAND REALTORS IN THE AREA FOR BUSINESS? Now that I’m more established, I have a referral base, so most of my clients come from referrals from another client. I’m always working on new business. I don’t really look at it as competing; fellow agents are my colleagues. They help me sell homes, too. 32

There is enough business to go around for everyone.

WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE KEY TO YOUR SUCCESS? I work very hard. I work seven days a week — but I think it’s because I care. I honestly treat my clients like family. If I wouldn’t move my mom into a house for some reason, I certainly wouldn’t want to move my clients into a home that isn’t the right fit. As a professional, I have the ability to really help people with the most important decision of their lives — not only financial, but personal. It is more of a personal thing for me. I really do care about my clients. I think that is what sets me apart from the rest.

HOW DO YOU MANAGE A SUCCESSFUL WORK-LIFE BALANCE? I think that I’ve given myself permission that sometimes there is just not a lot of balance. When it comes to the business, it does go in surges so I do have an opportunity sometimes to take a deep breath, but you can’t just turn your phone off. I’ve learned to juggle, not balance. My assistant Sarah helps me immensely.

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YOU WERE LICENSED ORIGINALLY IN 1999. HOW HAS THE INDUSTRY CHANGED OVER THE YEARS? The industry has changed big-time. When I was working out west in Seattle, it was easier. You would list a home and have three offers on the table. When I got back to Michigan, it just wasn’t as easy to sell and then the market tanked. So, I had a crash course on making it in a hard market and survived it.

HOW DO YOU THINK YOU SURVIVED? I changed a lot — I adapted my marketing with options. I fought harder for buyers. It was tough, but I really think it was just altering the markets I pushed for. In 2016, I saw an improvement. In 2017, I hit my career high volume of sales and units; that was a phenomenal year.

DO YOU SEE ANY TRENDS FOR 2018? I think we are going to remain strong. My phone will not stop ringing. The only thing that I think could change in the market is that

BEHIND THE SCENES

we expect interest rates to start rising, which will put a little bit of a halt on supply and demand. Right now, we’re super strong. It’s a great time to buy and sell, but inventory supply and demand is a little low, so it’s becoming a seller’s market.

DO BUYERS’ AND SELLERS’ MARKETS CHANGE WITH THE SEASONS? Yes. I call it spring market: the flood. Generally, right before school gets out, you have people who want to move over the summer, so they begin to list in April, May … and then move over the summer. I do have to say that all of 2017 was very busy, but March, April, May, June and July are your hot months.

HOW HAS THE EVOLUTION OF THE DIGITAL WORLD CHANGED YOUR CAREER?

Buyers are very educated. They know how long a home has been on the market, they know how to reach the information they need. Everything is at their fingertips. Buyers are smart, but they still need us – we are big advocates for our clients. There is a lot that goes on in the process … they still need us to guide them and negotiate for them.

ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT BUYING OR SELLING?

If you think you don’t have to work hard at this career, you are wrong. Up-and-coming agents need to realize that this is a very competitive business. People expect more, consumers expect more and they want an agent that is ahead of the game. Be ready to work hard and be responsive. Today’s consumer wants our attention, and they want it 100 percent of the time.

ANY FINAL WORDS?

Get an agent. Agents are not only there to help you price your home, we’re also there to offer tips on how to make your home more attractive to buyers in order to sell it. We’re here to help clients divide and conquer and narrow down what they need to do.

Real estate is exciting; it’s fun, I love it. I think the market is going to continue to rise. I think if you are contemplating listing or selling – do it this year. This is your year. This is your market, and this is probably when you are going to make the most profit.

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

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL UP-ANDCOMING REAL ESTATE AGENTS ABOUT THIS CAREER AS A WHOLE AND THE INDUSTRY?

Ownership. Pride. Responsibility.

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Business Spotlight:

HOPE NETWORK NEURO REHABILITATION BY ADAM LANSDELL

Did you know that every 13 seconds someone in the U.S. sustains a traumatic brain injury (TBI)? Or, that one out of 60 people in the U.S. are living with a TBI-related disability? This time of the year is a special opportunity to educate the public on the prevalence of brain injuries. Hope Network wants to let members of the community know there is a place that they and their loved ones can go for expert care and the comeback story they deserve. “Our staff are specially trained to work with people with brain injuries. We see patients from our community as well as those who travel to our specialized program from many states in the U.S.,” said Hope Network’s East Lansing Program Director, Kim Church. “It is a privilege to team up with patients as they work to achieve their greatest comeback possible.” Recognized nationally as Brain Injury Awareness Month, March is an important time of year to educate the public on the prevalence of brain injuries, and for shining light on the work being done to prevent and reduce these shocking statistics. The Michigan-based organization and its East Lansing team of neuro rehabilitation experts are doing just that through specialized expert care, customized programming and a genuine care for patient well-being and quality of life. “There are a lot of people that work very hard and do a lot of difficult things and they get to go home 34

knowing that they helped someone that day – so, even the tough days are good days if you look for the good in them,” said Church. Hope Network is a nonprofit organization that has led post-hospital rehabilitation for more than 30 years. The company’s staff of over 500 employees in four cities across the state treat people that have brain or spinal cord injuries, or other neurological conditions like concussions. “Our interdisciplinary teams consist of over 150 specially-trained staff including nurses, social workers, case managers and therapists,” said Rosemarie Roberts, a Speech and Language Pathologist, who’s been with Hope Network for over 12 years and works daily to help patients improve their speech, language and cognitive disorders. “We also have a team of psychologists and psychiatrists who help patients that struggle with behavioral issues often associated with a brain injury.” Despite each patient’s injury being unique, Hope Network works to accomplish a practical and vital goal: to get people back home, back to work, and to help them achieve their highest level of independence possible. The staff works to develop customized therapy plans for each patient that include a combination of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, therapeutic recreation, among others.

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The programs offered to patients are all community-based clinical programs. Hope Network provides transitional and neurobehavioral rehabilitation, day rehab and outpatient, return-to-work services, as well as residential and community living. These programs are overseen by medical directors who specialize in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation; the Medical Director for the East Lansing location is Dr. Gebara, who is also a professor for the MSU Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. In 2017, Hope Network served over 1,200 people from all over the U.S. Most often, patients come from a hospital after they’ve had an injury or accident but need more therapy. The organization works with discharge planners, case managers, social workers and physicians at hospitals such as Sparrow, McLaren, Mary Free Bed and Spectrum Health. To learn more about Hope Network Neuro Rehabilitation visit hopenetworkrehab.org. Adam Lansdell is a Grand Valley State University alumnus, and currently a Communications Specialist with M3 Group of Lansing. With a passion for all things creative it comes as no surprise that he’s also a musician, movie buff and graphic designer. Adam spends his down time biking, and spending too much of his personal income on concert tickets or vinyl records.

Purchase tickets now for the Mom & Me Tea party and luncheon as we listen to a guest speaker about supporting and empowering women. Daughters seven years old or older will most enjoy the program. Guest Speaker Jane Aldrich

Saturday, April 28, 2018 11:30 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 1:30 p.m. University Club Ballroom 3435 Forest Rd. | Lansing, MI 48910 Purchase tickets at CAWLM.COM/mom-me-tea $60 per pair C

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BUSINESS CALENDAR

MARCH 2018 MARCH 8 GREATER LANSING BUSINESS MONTHLY ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS, LANSING Businesses come in all shapes and sizes with unique missions and selling propositions. Whether it’s a car dealership, an engineering firm, a bakery or anything in between, their work begins with an idea, a passion and the willingness to take a risk. Companies in the Greater Lansing region have an amazing spirit and determination to make a big impact; these characteristics hold true among those honored at the annual Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Award Dinner. For more information or to reserve tickets, visit glbmawards.com.

MARCH 8 MASON AREA BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS EXPO, MASON The 9th Mason Area Chamber of Commerce Business-to-Business Expo is on Thursday, March 8. Any who buy (or have influence in buying) for any business or organization are welcome. There will be up to 50 local businesses showing their products and services, eager to tell you what they have to offer your business or organization! For more information, visit masonb2bexpo.com.

MARCH 9 MICHIGAN WOMEN’S FOUNDATION ENTREPRENEUR YOU CONFERENCE, EAST LANSING The Entrepreneur YOU conference is designed to educate women with a passion for owning their own business about the challenges and opportunities inherent to the endeavor, from planning through launch to growth. The conference provides a broad overview of topics such as marketing, finance, legal issues, business funding and more. The conference takes place at Lansing Community College’s west campus from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For more information, visit miwf.org/ events1/women-entrepreneurship-initiative.

MARCH 9 - 10 GROW WITH GOOGLE TOUR: LANSING Google announced that its Grow with Google tour, an initiative to help create economic opportunities for Americans throughout the country, will be coming to Lansing. Google will host the two-day event at Lansing Community College’s downtown 36

campus on March 9 and 10 to help job seekers, small business owners, students, teachers and entrepreneurs improve their digital skills. For more information, visit michipreneur.com.

MARCH 13 HOW TO CREATE A FASHION BUSINESS, WITH MELEENA HERRING, LANSING Are you looking to build your own fashion business? Come to this workshop and hear from Meleena Herring, operations coordinator of The Runway. Learn about developing inspiration for your fashion line, tips for finding your market, things to know when planning your collection, developing your collection, production and taking your line to market. Hear all of this at the Michigan State University Innovation Center from 1 to 2 p.m.

MARCH 14 GREATER LANSING BUSINESS MONTHLY CONNECTIONS AND COFFEE AT KELLIE’S CONSIGNMENTS, OKEMOS Be an active member of Lansing’s dynamic business community. Connections & Coffee, presented by Greater Lansing Business Monthly, is a free networking breakfast for all local business individuals. Meet people from diverse industries to add to your network, reconnect with friends and find local resources. The March 14 event will be held at Kellie’s Consignments in Okemos. For more information, visit lansingbusinessnews.com/ connections-and-coffee/.

MARCH 15 2018 MARCH ECONOMIC CLUB, EAST LANSING The Lansing Regional Chamber Economic Club speaker series features locally and nationally prominent speakers covering a broad spectrum of business-related topics ranging from economic trends and business success stories to the latest in management and leadership techniques. The meeting will take place at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center at 11:30 a.m. Learn more at lansingchamber.org/page/EconClub

MARCH 16 LCC AMERICAN MARKETING ASSOCIATION STAR TANK, LANSING Win $1,000 at the LCC American Marketing

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Association Star Tank supported by LCC Foundation! Submit an original business plan and application by March 23 and give a short presentation March 30 to a panel of judges to win. This is a great opportunity to test and receive expert feedback on your business idea. Other cash prizes will be presented for second and third place. For more information, please email William Motz at motzw@lcc.edu or call (517) 483-1540.

MARCH 22 9TH ANNUAL BARRISTERS NIGHT, LANSING The 9th Annual Barristers Night is an opportunity for the Bench and Bar to come together and recognize the recipients of the Top 5 Under 35 Awards. The awards are given annually to five members of the Ingham County Bar Association, Young Lawyers Section. Recipients are recognized for their talents, skills, professionalism, and civility in the practice of law. For more information, visit inghambar.org.

MARCH 23 BRANDING YOUR BUSINESS, LANSING Small businesses today need more than a website and a logo. To stand out, you need a remarkable brand that blends strategy, design and experience. In this session, you will learn the necessary tools for defining your company's brand personality, image, key message, taglines and more. You'll come away with a strong framework for constructing your company's comprehensive brand. Led by Laurie Lonsdorf of the Small Business Development Center. Register at bit.ly/brandingworkshopanc.

MARCH 28 THE GREENLIGHT MICHIGAN BUSINESS MODEL COMPETITION, EAST LANSING The GreenLight Michigan Business Model Competition is an early-stage pitch competition that brings together entrepreneurs and small business supporters from all over Michigan. Competition finalists will pitch ideas to a panel of seasoned judges, while also networking with angel and venture capital investors from across the state. It takes place from 4 to 9 p.m. at the Wharton’s Pasant Theatre. For more information, visit greenlightmichigan.com.