GLBM November 2019 by M3 Group Publications

NOVEMBER 2019

FIND THE PERFECT FIT WITH JUST A FEW CLICKS CEO Jay Hawreluk breaks down the science behind AcuMax’s simplified approach to better understand job candidates’ potential and improve workplace efficiencies IN THIS ISSUE • How phishing can create a cyber nightmare for your business • Michigan’s skilled-worker shortage rests on the shoulders of HR professionals • Michigan-based energy corporations unite to spark global opportunities for regional businesses

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NOVEMBER 2019 ON THE COVER How phishing can create a cyber nightmare for your business.................................................................... 12 Michigan’s skilled-worker shortage rests on the shoulders of HR professionals..................................... 28 Michigan-based energy corporations unite to spark global opportunities for regional businesses................... 8

NOVEMBER 2019

NEWS

Destination: East Lansing................................................................................................... 6 Region’s Top Young Professionals Honored at Chamber Event................................. 10

FEATURES Human Resources, Recruiting and Retention – How Technology Fits in................20

FIND THE PERFECT FIT WITH JUST A FEW CLICKS CEO Jay Hawreluk breaks down the science behind AcuMax’s simplified approach to better understand job candidates’ potential and improve workplace efficiencies IN THIS ISSUE • How phishing can create a cyber nightmare for your business • Michigan’s skilled worker shortage rests on the shoulders of HR professionals • Michigan-based energy corporations unite to spark global opportunities for regional businesses

Corporate Compassion....................................................................................................... 22 Behind The Scenes.............................................................................................................. 24 Visual Breakdown................................................................................................................. 26 Cannabis Industry Banking on SAFE Legislation........................................................... 30 Business Calendar................................................................................................................ 32 Notable News....................................................................................................................... 34

Cover photography by Mary Gajda In the October issue of GLBM, the cover photo for our technology issue was incorrectly identified as being taken by Mary Gajda. Photo credit goes to Kevin W. Fowler/LCC. Greater Lansing Business Monthly | Volume 32, Issue 11 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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Announcing The Louie… Downtown’s Newest Office Space For Lease / 123 & 125 Allegan Street

The Louie Downtown Lansing’s most exciting office space to come to the market in years! Join Dickinson Wright in this 10-story building with unparalleled views of the Capitol Building. Modernization of the entire structure will be completed and ready for occupancy in early 2021. • 3,000-30,000 SF with full floors of 7,436 SF available • Space can be designed to suit, with flexible floor plans and professional space planning available.

For more information on leasing space please contact: Eric F. Rosekrans, CCIM, CPM or Thomas Jamieson 517.351.2200 martincommercial.com

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REFOCUSING THE IMAGE OF HR Publisher: Tiffany Dowling, tiffany@m3group.biz Sales Manager: Jennifer Hodges, jhodges@m3group.biz Editor: Kelly Mazurkiewicz, kelly@m3group.biz Asst. Editor: Mary Gajda, mary@m3group.biz Media Specialist: Carey Jarvis Account Managers: Megan Fleming Liz Reno-Hayes Zack Krieger Art Director: Mark Warner Publication Designer: Cody Fell Graphic Designers: Jeanette Wummel Matthew McDaniel Chelsey Freedman Communications Specialists:

An office – or any business for that matter – is a bit like a microcosm of society as a whole. It’s a place where people of different backgrounds, attitudes and beliefs work side by side, and it functions best when it is operating in harmony and a basic set of behavioral expectations and guidelines are followed. Typically, this is where two unfortunate generalizations and oversimplifications come into play when it comes to human resources. In the first trope, they are painted as the bureaucratic killjoys whose singular thrill in life comes at stamping out the seeds of fun before they can grow into full bloom. If not being portrayed as the Official Pooper of Parties (sash optional), then they are most likely viewed as the heavy. Both of those cliches are unfair. As with any time you use a broad brush, you cannot capture the subtleties and details needed to see the whole picture. The truth is human resources play an important and essential role in maintaining a productive and goal-oriented workplace where management is supported, and employees are enthused and engaged. In this issue of Greater Lansing Business Monthly, we’re giving some long-overdue love to these unsung heroes of the working world. Consider these job vital responsibilities that are typically undertaken by a company’s human resources department:

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Alicia Frank Christopher Nagy Rich Adams Adam Lansdell

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Photographer: Mary Gajda Videographer: Michael Cagney 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 — Owner, Deb Muchmore Consulting Tom Ruis — Senior Vice President, PNC Bank Doug Klein — Executive Director, Mason Area Chamber of Commerce

• •

Human resources help ensure that top talent is acquired and retained. An experienced and knowledgeable workforce is invaluable to every employee on the ladder because one person performing an improper job effects the flow of work in both directions. One of our features this month discusses how HR is using technology to meet and exceed expectations when it comes to recruiting. A good human resources department is hands-on when it comes to ensuring employees are not only properly trained but are also provided with continued development to aid in their current duties or prepare them for advancement in the company. That’s right, they can actually assist you in getting that promotion by making sure you have the right skills for the job. They are responsible for employee satisfaction and boosting morale. Whether it’s gauging workforce feedback through questionnaires and surveys or rallying the troops through fun activities and events, human resources are the cheerleaders of the office. Yes, they do the dirty work that no one wants to do. Workplace conflict has a negative ripple effect that can spread throughout a company. Human resources professionals serves as the mediator to resolve uncomfortable issues and maintain a place of employee where a wide range of differing job styles and personalities can peacefully coexist.

Naturally, there is a wealth of other behind-the-scenes support conducted by human resources. As with any job, unless you’re the one doing it, you probably don’t know half of what is involved. Traffic cop and team-builder are just two of the many hats human resources has to wear on any given day, but the work they do and the roles they play make the workaday world a bit better for everyone.

Mark Hooper — Partner, Andrews Hooper Pavlik Diontrae Hayes — Supervisor, Charter Township of Lansing Tiffany Dowling | Publisher

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DESTINATION: EAST LANSING

Developments keep city on the rise BY LAURA MICHELS

Michigan State University sophomore Karina Jones thinks the city where she goes to school finally feels like a college town. “I love the new look, like the height of East Lansing and downtown East Lansing,” she said, “I think that it changes it and kind of modernizes it.” Jones is talking about several new developments taking place in the city. One is the Center City District. This approximately $132 million project offers 364 residential rental units spread across two buildings and space for retail and multi-level parking, according to East Lansing Buzz. One of the residential buildings, the Landmark on Grand River, totals 12 stories on the north side of East Grand River Avenue. It’s equipped with a small-format Target store that offers groceries and other necessities such as home products and clothes. “The Target is a huge win for the city,” said Tom Fehrenbach, the community and economic 6

development administrator in East Lansing. “Bringing those types of products and the availability for fresh foods, grocery and things people need without having to get in their car and travel to other stores that are farther away, I think, is really critical again to strengthening the community and the downtown.” Also, a win, said Mayor Pro Tem Erik Altmann, is dozens of residential spaces specifically reserved for diverse age groups. According to East Lansing Buzz, the 10-story residential building on the south side of Albert Avenue offers 92 “active-living” residential units for those who are 55 years old and older. “These have both been goals of everybody in East Lansing for a long time. To have an urban grocery and to have a more diverse group of people living in the downtown, so it's not just one relatively narrow age range,” Altmann said. The Albert building also includes retail space and a four-level parking structure. Besides offering more places to live for diverse age groups, the Center City project also

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transforms the heart of the city into a pedestriancentered space, according to project leaders. Heather Pope, a community development analyst in East Lansing, said the project includes the transformation of what was an Albert Avenue parking lot into a pedestrianfriendly area where people can enjoy outdoor seating and improved landscaping. “All of that area together is seeing more activity, more people out there using the outdoor space,” said Pope. Other projects underway in the city include The Hub, which is a mixed-use development that spans 10 stories and will offer 347 market-rate apartments, retail space and a 158-slot parking structure. This building will house a 7-Eleven and Georgio’s Pizza, according to East Lansing Buzz. “The expectation is that it’s probably going to be very attractive to the student market, probably also attractive to some young professionals,” said Fehrenbach

NEWS

An additional development, the Park District project, will offer residential rentals for those in the low-to-moderate income brackets. The project also includes a 194-bed hotel. In addition, the development will straighten out Albert Avenue and realign it across Abbott Road, according to project leaders. “Providing that flow where it feels like just a comfortable way to continue walking and finding the new developments down there,” said Pope. Once completed, city leaders want all three developments to foster pedestrian use and diverse living spaces while evolving the identity of East Lansing from college town to destination city. “When people think of East Lansing, I want them to think, ‘Wow, we should go down there because there are so many different things we can do and so many different places we can go,’” said Pope. Laura Michels has worked as television, radio and print reporter. She believes media at its best can connect, teach and inspire.

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ENERGIZING MICHIGAN

MEDC, Consumers Energy, DTE partner to strengthen state's business opportunities BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY

The rollout has begun to extend financial commitments to Michigan-based suppliers, helping small – to medium-sized businesses in the state gain a foothold with local, national and global purchasers to explore new business opportunities. Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, Consumers Energy and DTE Energy announced the $15 billion commitment in the spring during the 2019 Mackinac Policy Conference hosted by the Detroit Regional Chamber. In the announcement, Consumers Energy vowed to double its current diversity spending, and DTE made a pledge to spend $2.5 billion over the next five years with diverse suppliers through the Michigan Economic Development Corp. Pure Michigan Business Connect initiative. Of the suppliers that will benefit from the commitment, more than half are owned by people who are racial minorities, women, military veterans, or who are part of the LGBTQ community. “Consumers Energy made a triple-bottomline commitment to people, the planet and Michigan’s prosperity, and we serve customers across the entire Lower Peninsula,” said Brian Wheeler, spokesman for Consumers Energy. 8

“As a Michigan company, we know we have a role to support Michigan businesses by working with them. That’s good for the economy and helps put Michigan residents to work.” Consumers Energy and DTE will each spend $1.5 billion with Michigan suppliers annually through 2024, for a cumulative Michigan spend of $15 billion. An average of 60 cents on every dollar being spent by the energy providers will go to a Michigan supplier during that timeframe. DTE and Consumers Energy are founding members of Pure Michigan Business Connect. The May 30 announcement on Mackinac Island builds on $11 billion previously committed and achieved more than a year ahead of schedule. “Our investment in Michigan businesses has created or retained 24,000 jobs over the past nine years,” said Gerry Anderson, executive chairman of the DTE Energy board of directors. “We look forward to continuing to create growth opportunities for hardworking business owners in our state, and we will continue to urge our large suppliers to focus sourcing from within Michigan as well.”

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Wheeler explained the goal is to identify contractors and suppliers that help improve the quality work the company performs while reducing costs. Consumers Energy has seen through previous Pure Michigan Business Connect efforts that there are many employers in the company’s home state that do exceptional work. “In the past, we hosted events called supplier summits in Lansing and elsewhere that connected us with Michigan businesses,” Wheeler said. “We’ll continue to work with chambers of commerce and other business groups to get the word out about our commitment to Michigan businesses. Any business that’s interested in becoming a supplier can learn more at ConsumersEnergy.com/procurement.” Pure Michigan Business Connect will activate and coordinate a series of buyer/supplier events, including two supplier showcases for DTE and Consumers Energy purchasing teams, respectively, as well as one larger joint activity for both energy providers to bring access and exposure to a diverse, statewide network of suppliers. Concierge-level research and support also will be delivered

BWL SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT ON FUTURE ENERGY PLAN FOR REGION Five Public Open Houses to be Held in November to Shape BWL’s New Integrated Resource Plan The times, dates and locations of the five open houses are: Nov. 6, (Wednesday), 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., BWL REO Depot, 1201 S. Washington Ave., Lansing Nov. 7, (Thursday), 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., East Lansing Public Library (large meeting room), 950 Abbot Road, East Lansing

through Pure Michigan Business Connect to each energy partner to support and grow the Michigan supplier base. “Pure Michigan Business Connect provides Michigan companies with access to new opportunities to grow their business here in the state,” Jeff Mason, CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corp., said in a statement. “We appreciate the continued commitment and collaboration of Consumers Energy and DTE to utilize Michigan-based suppliers and deliver a tremendous impact on the economy across the state.” Wheeler noted that private-public partnerships such as Pure Michigan Business Connect only serve to strengthen both private industry and the state as a whole.

Nov. 13, (Wednesday), 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Delta Township District Library (Elmwood Room), 5130 Davenport Drive, Lansing Nov. 14, (Thursday), 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Alfreda Schmidt Center (Community Room), 5825 Wise Road, Lansing Nov. 19, (Tuesday), 9 a.m. to noon, BWL REO Depot, 1201 S. Washington Ave., Lansing More information about the BWL’s energy plans can be found at www.LansingEnergyTomorrow.com

“Our business does well only when our state is thriving,” he said. “It’s important for us to be part of our communities and to help provide solutions that are good for Michigan residents and companies that put people to work. That takes many forms, including our PMBC commitment.” For more information on Pure Michigan Business Connect, visit michiganbusiness.org/pmbc/. Christopher Nagy is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University and has more than 20 years of experience in journalism. He rarely misses a Motor City Comic Con or Michigan Renaissance Festival.

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REGION’S TOP YOUNG PROFESSIONALS HONORED AT CHAMBER EVENT Photo provided by Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce

BY RICH ADAMS

Ten young professionals in the Greater Lansing region were recently recognized at the 10 Over the Next Ten awards, presented by the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce and Grand River Connection.

who have sustained a neurological injury, Christy specializes in cognitive remediation and vision therapy. She also is Origami’s occupational therapy fieldwork coordinator.

Those recognized during the Sept. 24 event are:

Joel R. Conn is vice president and account manager for Friedland Industries Inc., a scrap processing and recycling firm in Lansing. He also assists in teaching environmental science classes at Lansing Community College about the economics and the role recycling plays in everyday life, providing students tours of Friedland’s facilities.

Dr. Farhan Bhatti is a board-certified family physician and CEO of Care Free Medical in Lansing. Care Free Medical provides primary and preventative medical, dental, behavioral health and optometry services to uninsured and underserved people in the Lansing area.

Aylysh Gallagher is an Ingham County assistant prosecuting attorney and is one of the youngest vertical prosecutors in the history of the office. Gallagher has almost exclusively prosecuted domestic violence cases since 2015, giving a voice to victims of domestic violence.

Priscilla Bordayo is CEO of Word Up, a nonprofit that focuses on rehabilitation and restoration for both victims and perpetrators of incest. Bordayo believes incest is a repeated cycle and generational curse, and she works with lawmakers to change statutes that will help end the culture of abuse.

Amy Jackson (Harris) is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood of Lansing. From her years as a project manager and entrepreneur, Jackson (Harris) has built a reputation of friendly customer care and her ability to help buyers to obtain the best value for their dream homes.

Kara Christy is the occupational therapy clinical supervisor and certified brain injury specialist at Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center. With nine years working with people

Dan Opsommer sits on the Meridian Township board of trustees and serves as supervisor pro-tem. In 2017, he helped draft and won voter approval for a millage campaign to fund police and fire

The event at the University Club of Michigan State University recognized the area’s young movers and shakers who are expected to contribute to the Greater Lansing community significantly.

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pensions, and this year drafted a successful road improvement project to rehabilitate 150 miles of neighborhood roads in the township. Lindsay Peters is the director of marketing and fund development for the Eaton Rapids Medical Center, managing social media, promotion, community engagement and fundraising to ensure the hospital remains competitive. She also is the director of the Eaton Rapids Medical Center Foundation. Andrew “Andy” Wirostek is CEO of Wirostek Lighting, which performs energy analyses for clients across the country. He offers expertise in lighting, controls, utility, rebate analysis, HVAC, project management and Energy Star certification. Mary ZumBrunnen is the founder and CEO of One-Community Consulting, where she has worked for nearly 20 years across communities at home and abroad, focusing on sustainable development to improve quality of life. Rich Adams is a communications specialist at M3 Group and was a print and broadcast journalist for more than four decades. When he is not watching his beloved Chicago Cubs, he is counting the days until spring training begins.

“The training I received gave me exactly what I needed.” -Erica Spitzfaden, Senior Network Engineer

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Capital Area Michigan Works! is a proud partner of the American Job Center network. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this piece will be made available in an alternative format upon request to Capital Area Michigan Works! Relay Center. Call 711 or 844-578- 5653 (Voice and TDD). Funding for Capital Area Michigan Works! is received in part from the U.S. Department of Labor, the State of Michigan Department of Health L a n and s i n Human g B u s i Services, n e s s N eand w s . c o m the Talent Investment Agency. An Equal Opportunity Employer/Center.

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DON’T TAKE THE BAIT Phishing attacks put companies, customers at risk BY TERESA FRITH

In today’s digital age, cyberattacks seem to be very common, and that can make them very dangerous to both businesses as well as their customers. One of the ways the cybercriminal are getting more sophisticated is via a practice known as phishing. Phishing is a fraudulent act of someone sending an email that is supposedly from a trusted company to get the recipient to give out personal data like credit or banking account information, website passwords, or more. They don’t merely attack private individuals though; these days, they are going for bigger fish – they want to trick business employees into revealing information that, in turn, causes major financial losses. According to a 2019 study done by the Ponemon Institute involving more than 500 organizations from 16 countries across 17 different industries, the average cost of a data breach to a business was nearly $4 million, with the U.S. suffering the most expensive average of a little over $8 12

million. That was an increase of 1.5% from a previous study the institute did in 2018 and more than a 12% rise since a study done in 2014. These phishing attacks harm a business not only financially from the attack itself, but it causes customers to lose faith and trust in it so the business continues to lose money due to damage to its reputation. Due to that, many businesses are doing things such as hiring special cybersecurity companies that work to protect them and their customers from phishing schemes. Cybercrooks are way more sophisticated than in the past. They are doing things such as impersonating trusted entities like a bank, a credit card company, or even employee human resources portals. The email could even use someone’s real name, unlike in the past, when it may have merely been addressed generically by saying “account holder.”

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Plus, they now are using real company logos and letterhead, so it is even harder to detect the fake from the real thing. For example, the email may come from janedoe@yourcompany. com instead of jane.doe@yourcompany.net, so you have to go over each and every email carefully prior to responding and never just automatically breeze through an email, click on links or provide information blindly. Furthermore, phishers tend to use Bitly, a tool that shortens web addresses so they can bypass email filters, so teach your employees not to click on unknown or shortened links in emails. Plus, the email may contain some sort of aggressive tone or tell the recipient that if he or she doesn’t do a certain task that some sort of dire problem is going to happen, thereby frightening that person into completing the act before he or she has a chance to think about it rationally.

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Employees need to be trained to detect such fake emails, and their clients also need to learn how to read emails in a responsible fashion so they wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be tricked into providing personal or a companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s private information. Cyber experts also recommend that companies utilize tools like anti-impersonation technology, sender reputation scoring, secure messaging, multifactor authentication tools and password managers. The bottom line is that phishing attacks are no joking matter and can bring down both small and large businesses with ease if they arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t paying attention. Therefore, it is a vital issue for any business to train its employees on how to fight against them, as well as help inform customers how to protect themselves against a phishing attack. Be vigilant and aware, or the next data breach could happen to your business and ruin the lives and finances of you and your customers forever. 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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MAKING THE WORKFORCE PUZZLE EASIER

AcuMax Index helps employers find the perfect fit BY STEFANIE POHL

It’s a scenario many employers encounter: A candidate looks great on paper, has a wonderful interview and gets the position; however, a few months later, it becomes clear that the person wasn’t actually a great fit for the role and perhaps even the company. On the flip side, many job seekers apply for positions that sound perfect for them, only to realize they aren’t happy with

the work. What if there was a way for businesses and employees, both current and potential, to remove the guesswork? The Michigan-based company AcuMax Index, is working to crack the code by looking beyond the resumes and personalities and addressing the innate part of people: their natural wiring.

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AcuMax Index was developed by its CEO, Jay Hawreluk, whose fascination for people and their actions led him to create a tool that helps not only with hiring practices but also creating better work environments for employees to be successful. “What went into the development of this is not about someone’s behavior or personality but what is someone’s innate wiring,” he said. According to Hawreluk, the formulation of a person’s neural pathways occurs in the 18- to 24-month period after birth. While someone’s behavior and personality can be impacted by nurture, the AcuMax Index focuses on a person’s nature. There are 240 different personality assessments marketed in North America for hiring purposes, but the AcuMax Index’s deeper dive into natural wiring sets it apart. The quick survey determines a person’s wiring and generates a profile; from that data, an employer can assess how that person communicates, processes information and thrives in the workplace. When it comes to standard hiring practices, Hawreluk said the success rate of employers getting a candidate who performs at the level of expectation is around 40%. “The thing about human beings that’s cool

is that we can change our behavior,” he said. “Job interviews can be Academy Awardwinning performances. Nobody ever hires an underperforming employee on purpose.” With the addition of an analytical tool like the AcuMax Index, the hit rate more than doubles to close to 85%, thanks to a customized approach at what a company needs. Matching a person’s natural wiring patterns to a job that aligns with those qualities means a greater chance of success for everyone involved. “When we go into an organization, we do not use templates,” Hawreluk said. “A lot of personality assessment companies will use templates. We go in and create data from the organization. From that data, we can determine wiring patterns for different jobs.” With this company-specific data, employers can avoid the potential trap of hiring a skilled person who was successful in a similar role with a competitor but isn’t a great fit for them. “Not all jobs are the same,” he said. “They can have the same title, but very different wiring responsibilities.” Using the AcuMax Index in hiring isn’t always a perfect science. Hawreluk noted: “You could

Executive Management Consultant Ed Fisher presents AcuMax results to M3 Group management.

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have a great background and wiring match, but if you’re going to the casino every night, it might be tough for you to be sharp on the job. There are other external elements like that, but (the AcuMax Index) doubles the chance of a company having an employee that hits the ground running and performing. And they’re happy.” In addition to being a helpful tool for the hiring process, the AcuMax Index gives employers the opportunity to assess their current staff and practices. “Three things happen when a company incorporates us,” Hawreluk said. “One, underperformers perform better, because I know how to motivate them. Two, I may have some square pegs in round holes, and I go, ‘Wow, if I put this person over here, they’d be so much better.’ And three, sometimes we do have to give people opportunities to excel in another organization.” Hawreluk said the AcuMax Index is never used for that latter intent, but equipping companies with the knowledge of their staff’s wiring helps them address employee strengths. According to research from OC Tanner, 79% of employees who quit their jobs said a lack of recognition was a major reason for leaving. With employee satisfaction being a top concern

for companies, understanding individuals and their needs can help reduce turnover. “Oftentimes, the person who is an issue in a work environment is because they’re trying to perform a job that is outside of their wiring, so they’re unhappy,” Hawreluk said. “When we go in, we want everyone to take the survey because then it will give you insight into individuals. Maybe there’s a better spot for someone in the organization. You can also look at it and say, ‘Based on this data, who’s going to better fit into a team?’” Looking toward the future of human resources, Hawreluk sees the AcuMax Index as a valuable tool to help employers create their own workforces. “What this allows companies to do is to be specialized in recruiting for their company,” he said. “Different jobs have different wiring patterns. It allows companies to customize who exactly they’re looking for in their organization. Interviewing is all very subjective; this allows the process to happen in an analytical sense.” Hawreluk also believes wiring could help match younger people with opportunities when they might not have a lot of experience yet.

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“If I can bring someone in with the right wiring and right mindset, I might put them into sales or help them with a career or in the skilled trades arena,” he said. “It gives employers so many different opportunities to effectively attract and engage talent.”

particularly across multiple branches. By knowing and understanding how team members are wired leads to stronger, more productive communication in the workplace.

In an ever-changing workplace where positions are no longer “one size fits all,” natural wiring could be the key to finding just the right fit. Based in Dearborn, Michigan, AcuMax Index has helped clients across the state with staffing and HR needs. From Koppert Biological Systems to Liberty Title and, most recently, M3 Group, companies throughout Michigan are finding the advantages of AcuMax Index. Teresa Stuenkel, executive vice president at Liberty Title, has known Hawreluk and his work for nearly a decade. Both her former title company and Liberty Title used a similar HR tool from Hawreluk’s previous employer. When the AcuMax Index was introduced, Liberty Title made the switch and became one of the very first customers for AcuMax. According to Stuenkel, utilizing the tools has improved how staff members communicate,

AcuMax Index tool for her company. Dowling met Hawreluk at an event in Detroit and said she was intrigued by the tool’s effect on businesses.

“Jay’s AcuMax technology platform is phenomenal,” Stuenkel said. “One of his tools is a document that says ‘How to Best Communicate with Me.’ It’s a very shortened version of the natural self of the AcuMax. That snapshot is posted on our company intranet and posted at every person’s workstation.” AcuMax Index has also made a difference in Liberty Title’s hiring and turnover rate: “Every time I go against what AcuMax tells me in the hiring process because a manager or owner convinces me a person is a fantastic candidate, we end up regretting it,” Stuenkel said. “They’re not wired for the particular position.” According to Stuenkel, over the years, the company has become better at hiring people who truly fit the position instead of trying to make them fit. Tiffany Dowling, president and CEO of M3 Group, was in the process of reviewing various systems to implement when she chose the

“I had never really considered the idea of ‘natural wiring,’ how it impacts what we love to do and how we accomplish it,” Dowling said. “It’s exciting to look at how people are wired and see them align with what type of job they are doing. You are much happier if you’re in a position that is naturally a fit to who you inherently are.” With the guidance of the AcuMax team, M3 Group is streamlining its hiring process to make it more effective and efficient. “The value comes in understanding people and how they need information, processes or projects delivered,” Dowling said. Stefanie Pohl earned a BA in English and Creative Writing from Michigan State University and an MA in Writing and Publishing from DePaul University. She is currently a freelance writer raising her two young daughters with her Spartan sweetheart. Find her musings about motherhood and more on her blog, www.mostefinitely.com. Stefanie has been spelling out her name since 1985.

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Count on Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network to give you and your employees care that goes beyond coverage. With access to virtual wellness webinars and programs that promote healthy living, Blue Cross provides you with all the resources you need. Find all of our programs at chooseconfidently.com. La

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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

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HUMAN RESOURCES, RECRUITING AND RETENTION – HOW TECHNOLOGY FITS IN BY TEECE ARONIN

Companies have been adopting technical assists in human resources for a while, but not all of us have access to the bigger picture that demonstrates technology’s benefits inside and outside company walls – including its surprising advantages for employees and job candidates. Automated phone interviews are one example of how automation helps human resources. While they are a tool designed to screen candidates and boost efficiency, they hold benefits for jobseekers as well. One advantage for job candidates is that they can schedule these interviews, giving them more preparation time. And, since their use can indicate additional pressure on an 20

employer to fill a position quickly, smart job candidates can tease that information out in future conversations to gain a competitive edge. But automated phone interviews are just the tip of the technology/HR iceberg. Automation boosts employee retention by sourcing employees who are ripe for promotions and other opportunities. Developing staff already onboard results in rewarded and motivated employees and reduced costs. When hiring from the outside, automation zips through online sources such as LinkedIn and Indeed to analyze resumes, compare them against job specifics and email invitations to applicants. Taking humans out of that part of

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the process makes it faster and arguably leads to better hires. There is little argument, however, that – all things being equal – speeding up processes results in higher company profits. Lynette Long, director of talent management and learning at Emergent Holdings, which includes AF Group, Advantasure and Senior Health Services, said, “At Emergent Holdings, we use VidCruiter. VidCruiter significantly decreases the time it takes to interview prospective job candidates, can be customized and helps with scheduling multiple interviews over multiple time zones. Also, it reduces costs, builds a better and standardized screening of candidates, is more

FEATURE

efficient, reduces time-to-hire, and improves collaboration on the recruitment process.” Long’s assessment noted that technology “improves collaboration.” Human resources experts find that automation does not replace people as much as it frees them to do better work.

, t n e m y d n a el s t fi uns o C r

“Today’s businesses are working on a global platform and need world-class talent to reflect this. Job seekers want to work at a place where they can express themselves and have a healthy work-lifestyle balance, and employers recognize the need for a strong winning culture, which includes attracting the innovators and freethinkers from around the globe,” explained Tedi R. Parsons, managing partner with 2B Inclusive LLC, a Lansing-based professional development organization. “Leadership in human resources, often an employee’s first experience with an organization, is one of the ways this attraction is sparked.” Tina Riley, associate professor and associate director of Michigan State University’s School of Human Resources and Labor Relations, shared insights in sync with Parsons. Riley also is a national presenter on human resources and leadership. “Organizations that win the race for talent will be those that recognize the power of positive experiences, and those experiences begin with recruiting,” she said. “To attract talent and keep prospective candidates engaged, provide personalized attention through automation. By leveraging technology, busy recruiters can make every candidate feel valued. Remember, in an age of Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, it’s the moments that matter. Connect with prospective candidates and invite them to respond. Reaching out through social media and encouraging candidates to reach back helps build an online presence as an employer of choice. Be sure to use inclusive and welcoming language to increase the number of applications.”

Employment, Benefits and Labor Counsel Helping private and public sector employers follow the myriad of federal and state tax laws, employment laws and regulations. • Employment Labor & Relations • Workers' Compensation

• Employee Benefits • Employment Litigation

With the technology genie out of the HR bottle, it seems wise to embrace the benefits to employers, job candidates and employees alike, and let the onboarding begin. Teece Aronin is a writer and career coach. She works with individuals from all walks of life, including persons with disabilities and career-changers. Contact her at teecearonin8@gmail.com, and read her blog, Chipped Demitasse at chippeddemitasse. blogspot.com.

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CORPORATE COMPASSION

Community volunteerism has internal, external benefits for business BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY

Positive publicity and elevated brand perception are the superficial benefits of corporate community engagement. However, scratching a bit below the surface uncovers much deeper gains that come from corporate volunteerism, offering rewards to be reaped both outside as well as within an organization. More and more companies are realizing that shedding the pejorative connotation of business as a large, impersonal force – and revealing the boots-on-the-ground, troopsin-the-trenches human side of business – can not only boost the immediate surrounding community served by an organization, but it can also serve as a powerful tool in nurturing a more positive company culture among employees.

For several years, the multinational professional services network Deloitte has conducted volunteer impact research to measure important aspects of corporate community engagement. Findings have shown that volunteerism helps employees develop leadership skills as well as strengthen the overall workplace environment. Millennials, in particular, were found to be more proud, loyal and satisfied employees when they were provided with frequent opportunities to engage in workplace volunteer activities. “It appears that many employees understand the value of volunteering and have the desire to do more, but they aren’t reaping the full benefits,” Doug Marshall, managing director of corporate citizenship for Deloitte, said in a 2017 news release. “Employers have an opportunity

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to build on their volunteerism programs by creating a culture that celebrates volunteering and empowers volunteers to be more active.” Locally, one such employer that has embraced the concept of empowering its employees through volunteerism is Maner Costerisan, a full-service public accounting and business advisory firm headquartered in Lansing. “Maner Costerisan’s employees are actively involved in the community through serving on nonprofit boards of directors and volunteering their time. In addition to individual efforts, we have a long history of coming together as a firm to support various organizations,” said Sarah Jennings, director of strategic initiatives and community engagement for Maner Costerisan. The firm has a Give Back Committee, which organizes numerous volunteer and fundraising opportunities throughout the year, plus it launched the Maner Costerisan Cares program last year, which encompasses community engagement efforts. Maner Costerisan Cares kicked off Nov. 1, 2018, with the company’s inaugural Day of Impact event. Employees donated 405 volunteer hours to charities and community organizations across Michigan during the first Day of Impact. “The amount of participation and community impact was outstanding,” said Amber Rathburn, chair of the Give Back Committee. “Over 85% of employees participated in the event, volunteering for two to four hours each, helping

A HELPING HAND TO CREATE HELPING HANDS a total of 17 organizations in five different communities. We sent teams out to nonprofit organizations in Allegan County, Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids and the Greater Lansing area. Some of the projects involved networking with youth, playing games and socializing with veterans, hanging Christmas lights at the Potter Park Zoo, cleaning up parks and doing yard work for senior citizens. We received a lot of positive feedback from the organizations served, the employees who participated and clients who learned of the efforts.” Supporting communities is a vital part of the culture and climate Maner Costerisan seeks to provide and encourage, Jennings explained. The firm’s corporate responsibility model focuses on the expectation that concentrated action with purpose outside of one’s own needs are key to progression.

You don’t have to be a mid-size or large corporation to encourage volunteerism among your workforce. Businesses of any size can create a worker volunteer program. Read about some simple steps to promote employee volunteering in the “Business News Today” section of the Greater Lansing Business Monthly website, lansingbusinessnews.com.

as well, and we are so excited to be directly involved with that in a very hands-on way.” Maner Costerisan’s Day of Impact is continuing as an annual event held on the first Thursday of November, which falls on Nov. 7 this year. “In 2019, we are excited to expand our participants by inviting alumni to join us on this special day,” explained Jennings. “Our focus

“We feel, from the top down, that it is the responsibility of businesses to support community endeavors and give back time, talent and treasure,” said Jennings. “We encourage all of our team members to do the same in ways that are meaningful to them. Our mantra is to give back in the communities in which our clients live, work and play. We want not only our clients’ businesses to thrive, but their communities

is nonprofit organizations in the communities where our clients live, work and play. This could involve countless types of projects such as winterization of grounds, setting up for an upcoming event, career training or networking with youth, park cleanup, outdoor cleanup for senior citizens, etc. These are all projects that we helped within 2018, and we are looking forward to expanding the types of activities we help within 2019 based on requests that we receive.”

The Maner team is proud to have supported Habitat for Humanity.

Thank you to our generous 100 year celebration event food sponsors!!

Thank you to our generous 100 year celebration event sponsors!

Mark and Judy Nixon www.micauw.org La

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BY KERRY HART | PHOTO BY MATTHEW MCDANIEL

RENEE ROTH

MAKING PEOPLE HER BUSINESS Renee Roth, a born and raised Michigander, has worked with people since the age of 16. Early on in her career, she quickly moved into management, but realized her calling in life was to better the lives of others as they navigated their own career journey. Today, Roth calls the Lansing information technology consulting firm Dewpoint her professional home and is living her dream of working with people and helping make their lives better every single day.

YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;VE HAD QUITE THE JOURNEY ON YOUR WAY TO STARTING A CAREER IN HUMAN RESOURCES. HOW DID THAT BEGIN? 24

My first job was in the restaurant industry, and I found I had such great people skills. Then, my husband and I relocated from Michigan to California, where I worked in retail management before making the move to UCLA, where I found myself in human resources for the first time. Education was important to me, as I always wanted my children to value education, as well. I found myself working, raising children and taking classes at California State University at night from 7-10 p.m. My kids saw the blood, sweat and tears it took for me to get my degree, so they know the value of hard work and how to get there. I majored in communications and received my professional in human resources certification

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to give myself a wide range of options upon graduation. I was now able to work with people but also was able to manage payroll, staff members and even run the company database when working in IT. Having such a wide range of experience made me an attractive candidate when we wanted to make the move back to Michigan, so I could continue my work in human resources.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT HUMAN RESOURCES? My interest grew over time because I love personal interactions. In the beginning I had some niche specialty areas, including medical leave and payroll, but as the director I have a broader scope. There is so much that I can do

Behind the Scenes

team now, and we generally work with HR benefits as well as worker compensations. I consider myself lucky because the director of HR does not usually get as much interaction with the employees, but this company is mid-size and values my work with individual employees. I really value the opportunity to connect with everyone at this company, as well as the opportunity to know just about everyone that works here.

WHAT EVENTS ARE YOU PARTICULARLY EXCITED ABOUT?

We plan a block party every summer just outside of our building with live music. We also host private movie showings for employees to bring their families to, as well as an annual holiday party, of course. Overall, I feel good about finding my passion and doing it every day. I don’t think a lot of people can say they like what they are doing, and I am very lucky to have found it so early in my career so I can spend my life doing exactly what I love. Kerry Hart is a couple and family therapist with a private practice in East Lansing. The only thing she loves more than saving relationships is writing about them. See more of her musings at kerryhartcounseling.com

HR puts on an annual kickoff where we take direct employees to an off-site location to discuss how the past year was and what our goals are for next year. This year we are going to the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel for an exciting one-night stay. It is not just work and PowerPoints though, there are great team-building exercises, too. Last year, we set the bar really high with life-size board games, fantastic food, raffle prizes and really cool swag. For March Madness, we rent out Lansing Brewing Co., where we have food, drinks, trivia, and prizes, as well as the opportunity to view the games.

One Community Bank Hits it out of the Park “When looking for a bank to partner with for a new development, we prefer one that is also open minded and thinks creatively. First National Bank of Michigan dove right into the project to help make it a reality. We have a lengthy history with their bankers because they maintain connections and care about their partners - we are more than just a name on a spreadsheet. First National Bank of Michigan is a true business partner.”

to help make people better at their jobs, and that is easily my favorite part. I can’t imagine doing anything more rewarding than this.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT YOUR CURRENT POSITION? I really like how my job has grown over time. Technically, I do what needs to get done, but I also have the opportunity to plan and run events for employees and their families. I have been with Dewpoint since 2017, when Ken Theis, the president of the company, brought me on after connecting at a networking event. I found his passion for Dewpoint to be contagious and wanted to be a part of a company that inspired such excitement. I have several people on my

Pictured left: Patrick Gillespie, Owner, Gillespie Group Pictured right: Patty Barnas, FNBM

-Patrick Gillespie, Owner Gillespie Group

To read the full story, please visit: www.fnbmichigan.com/ gillespie-group

fnbmichigan.com | 330 Marshall St., Suite 200, Lansing 48912 | 517.319.8000 La

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FOCUS ON HUMANS IN HUMAN RESOURCES There’s more to human resources than hiring workers to fill job vacancies and handing out employee handbooks. The role of the modern HR department is to recruit the best and the brightest to work for your company and retain them through best practices. Some of these best practices are:

THE STAY INTERVIEW Instead of an exit interview, asking workers why they stay at their job gives management knowledge about what the organization can improve now and how to better retain your remaining, valued employees.

INVESTING IN EMPLOYEES’ HEALTH Free gym memberships. In-office health screenings. Game rooms. HR managers are learning that investing in employee mental and physical health boosts morale and increases productivity.

TEAM BUILDING MADE FUN Take a few hours on a Friday and practice team-building exercises. Take the “bird test” for example, where answering a short survey reveals if your personality is that of a dove, owl, eagle or peacock. It’s fun and helps the different flocks better understand one another. 26

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TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT Without training and development – or upskilling – employees do not see a map to advancement. Upskilling adds value to your business because you can fill future vacancies with trusted and loyal staff members.

THE RIGHT BENEFITS Millennials, in particular, put great emphasis on benefits packages that fit their needs. Among the most desired are flexible work schedules, student loan repayment assistance, financial literacy programs and clear lines for advancement.

FEEDBACK The annual performance interview is a thing of the past. By having frequent feedback sessions, employees are able to make any suggested changes right away and feel more engaged, while management has a better understanding of the worker and the job he or she does.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Consider giving employees a route to volunteer time off. Set a number of hours each quarter that employees can request to serve their community as a volunteer, be it helping out at the local animal shelter or assisting with the organization of a food bank. Nearly 1 in 4 companies and nonprofits in the U.S. are offering volunteer time off to employees, which helps with retention.

REMOTE WORK Another impact millennials are having in the job market involves jobs that are fully remote. 85% of millennials want full-time remote work so they can avoid the daily commute and work at home, in a coffee shop or in a coworking location, on a beach – anywhere that is not cube-shaped.

Sources: The Balance Careers, Talent Sorter, Recruitee, Launchways, Clear Company, Atlassian, Liquidspace La

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LANSINGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TALENT SHORTAGE WEIGHS DEEPLY ON HR PROFESSIONALS BY AMANDA FISCHER

Finding workers with the right skills who fit well into a company has always been a challenge for businesses. But the skilled-workers shortage is becoming more and more prominent in Michigan, specifically the Lansing region, and human resource professionals are working overtime to attract and retain talent. The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, like many organizations, is doing its part to provide resources to employers and hiring staff to help them navigate the talent gap and better promote our region. In spring 2019, the chamber launched its HR Roundtable to hear directly from the source where businesses are struggling to find skilled workers. 28

Through those discussions, we discovered and learned a number of things:

1. HR professionals are some of the most patient, creative individuals.

These staff members work their way through hundreds of applications, set up an abundance of interviews and, once they finally find the right person, have to think outside the box to find new ways to sell the applicant on why he or she should live and work in Lansing.

2. Finding the marketing or promotional materials needed to attract talent to the region is a nightmare.

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We live and work in a special place. We have great restaurants, diverse residents, athletics, museums, art galleries, breweries, a world-class research university, the state Capitol and so much more. Although we have videos, pictures, brochures and other materials that make Lansing look like a downright amazing place to be, they are scattered across so many platforms that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nearly impossible to track them down and present them well. Right now, HR professionals have to send at least six different links to applicants to showcase the area. Quite simply, this approach is neither optimal nor effective.

LEGISLATIVE

3. Our region has great resources to help businesses attract, retain and develop talent, but they aren’t easy to find.

Between state initiatives like the Going PRO Talent Fund, regional programs like the Lansing Board of Water and Light’s first STEP program, and talent development organizations like Michigan Works!, there are more than 150 talent initiatives and programs in the Lansing area alone. Having that many highcaliber resources could put our region at such an advantage, but there are a few major problems with it that include:

• No one knows about where to find these resources.

• If you find out about a program, whom do you contact?

• There is duplication among the

programs, so businesses are wasting valuable time, energy and resources reinventing the wheel. • Applying for these initiatives can be frustrating, as deadlines, paperwork and requirements change from year to year.

We have a major opportunity moving forward in this region. As the talent issues continue to elevate, we must work together as businesses, community leaders and elected officials to not react to the issues but to get out in front of them and come up with tangible solutions to help our area residents and businesses continue to grow and thrive. In the past few years, we have seen businessto-business collaborations, like Rotary Park and MICareerQuest, that have aided in placemaking, talent attraction and retention, and the creation of talent pipelines. It is efforts like these that will continue to drive the Lansing region to the top. It’s no longer an option to leave the talent shortage struggles to each individual business and its HR staff. This is a regional issue and we need to work as one to provide solutions. Amanda Fischer is the communications, policy and talent manager for the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. She is responsible for assisting in the chamber’s communications and government affairs efforts, as well as managing the chamber’s talent development efforts and initiatives.

IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES

Grand Rapids w Lansing w Detroit Promo Code: GLBM 0806 www.chasecreative.com La

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CANNABIS INDUSTRY BANKING ON SAFE LEGISLATION

Bill proposes allowing banks, credit unions to do business with cannabis shops BY RICH ADAMS

Michigan’s medical marijuana industry has been up and running for a decade. In January, adult recreational use will expand the scope of cannabis retail sales. Just as medical marijuana entrepreneurs have been forced to run primarily a cash-only business, the same will apply to recreational retailers. That’s because banks and credit unions are nervous about handling cannabis businesses accounts. Marijuana is still illegal in the eyes of the federal government, which classifies cannabis as a Schedule 1 drug, right up there with heroin and cocaine. Help in the form of congressional legislation may be on the way. 30

The U.S. House of Representatives, on a strong, bipartisan vote, recently approved the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act as a way of protecting financial institutions that want to work with cannabis businesses in states that have legalized marijuana use.

Michigan’s attorney general agrees with the banking reforms and has joined a bipartisan group of 21 attorneys general urging Congress to act on the SAFE Act to allow banks and credit unions to serve cannabis businesses in the 33 states and U.S. territories where marijuana sales are legal.

The future of the banking reform is not clear in the Senate, as Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has opposed legalized cannabis in the past. During a recent two-day trip examining the marijuana industry, McConnell made no legislative commitments but noted that cannabis is a “complicated issue” and in particular made clear he understands the industry’s problems with banking access, according to Marijuana Moment.

“All legal and legitimate businesses should have a safe place to deposit their revenue and not have to rely on under-the-floor sales to store their legally earned money,” said Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. “This is not just a state’s rights issue, this is an issue of safety.”

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The Michigan Bankers Association (MBA) supports the reform, noting that during the Obama administration the Cole Memo lessened pressure on the cannabis industry.

FEATURE

The memo stated that given its limited resources, the U.S. Justice Department would not enforce federal marijuana prohibition in states that "legalized marijuana in some form and ... implemented strong and effective regulatory and enforcement systems to control the cultivation, distribution, sale and possession of marijuana.” The Cole Memo was rescinded by the Trump Administration, which muddied the waters so far as banks working with cannabis businesses are concerned. “The financial institutions industry had been operating, on a limited basis, in other states under regulatory guidance from U.S. Treasury FinCEN (Financial Crimes Enforcement Network) and the Department of Justice Cole Memo, said Patricia Herndon, MBA Executive Vice President, Government Relations. “In early 2018, the Cole Memo was rescinded. The rescinding of the Cole memo removed any technical protections for financial institutions with regard to what is considered federal money laundering of funds from state legal and federally illegal cannabis transactions, and banks are regulated at the federal level.”

is paramount,” Adams explained. “We have assisted these businesses in designing and improving their cash management processes.”

He said not all banks would offer fullservice lines immediately after Congress approves the bank reform bills.

Even when – and if – the SAFE Act is signed into law, Adams predicts financial institutions will be cautious to accept legal cannabis businesses as customers.

“There will be those who do (offer full services), but some will test the waters, which may limit what products and services these banks are willing to offer this industry,” Adams said. “Once the legislation is passed, our firm will continue to be a referral source for our clients as to which banks are working in the space and at what capacity, in order to assist them in making the banking choice that is right for their needs.”

“We anticipate there will still be hesitation and the need for banks to ramp up once the legislation is passed and enacted,” Adams said. “This will be a new industry for banks and they will need time to assess how they want to participate in this market.” Adams pointed out that the cannabis landscape is constantly changing and evolving, and Maner Costerisan is there to assist banks in navigating that landscape. “At Maner Costerisan, our team is constantly learning about the industry as a whole to assist our clients in any way we can to help them succeed,” he explained. “It is difficult, if not impossible, to become an expert from reading one article about the challenges of the cannabis industry or reading the IRS code section 280e.”

Herndon noted that Nessel, Michigan Treasurer Rachel Eubanks, Department of Insurance and Financial Services Director Anita Fox and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer support changes in federal law to give the cannabis industry access to traditional banking services.

The MBA also will be on hand to assist banks that are interested in partnering with the marijuana industry. “We are supporting legislation that would create greater safeguards for banks that wish to provide depository banking services,” said Herndon. “We work continually to educate both banks that wish to bank cannabis and those who do not, to understand the current marketplace, regulatory and legislative landscapes.”

Classical Music To Fit

“We support efforts to provide greater safeguards to banks who find it within their model and risk profile to service state legal entities,” Herndon explained. “We have asked our Michigan congressional delegation to support H.R. 1595.”

YOUR

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Maner Costerisan, a Lansing accounting firm is a leader in working with cannabis firms, providing financial statement assistance, inventory tracking and costing, income tax consulting and preparation services. “Cannabis businesses need strong accounting software products, our firm offers a range of solutions and we work with each business to match the best software to their needs,” said Timothy H. Adams, CPA, tax principal at Maner Costerisan. Adams said there are certain services and needs specific to the cannabis industry, such as financial attestation services required by the Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency and other financial attestations required to maintain a valid license required by the state.

Jamie Paisley

Jody

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Knol

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“This industry is primarily a cash-only industry, and the need for strong internal controls, cash management and accounting practices La

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BUSINESS CALENDAR

NOVEMBER 2019 NOV. 9

2019 LEAN IN MICHIGAN LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE Held from 12:30-5 p.m. at the Henry Center, 3535 Forest Road in Lansing, the concept of Lean In is to encourage women to “sit at the table,” to seek challenges, to take risks and to pursue their goals with passion. Lean In encourages both women and men to support women in leadership positions, both to reach that leadership position and to thrive upon appointment. The keynote speaker will be Deb Eslinger. For more details, including sponsorship opportunities, visit leaninmichigan.org/leadership-conference.

NOV. 12

AIAMM & MMCOA SEMINAR: 2015 IBC PERFORMING STRUCTURAL PLAN REVIEWS The Mid-Michigan Code Officials Association and AIA Mid-Michigan joint seminar with an ICC instructor runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Brody Square, 241 Brody W. in East Lansing. The instructor will be Roger Axel, CBO. This seminar is for learning how to describe the purpose of performing a structural plan review, how to verify that structural loads are in compliance with code requirements, how to perform a structural plan review, how to verify that foundation system design is in compliance with code requirements, and how to verify that structural components and materials are in compliance with code requirements. Registration is $120 for members. Find tickets at eventbrite.com/e/aiamm-mmcoa-seminar-

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2015-ibc-performing-structural-plan-reviewstickets-73120474307?aff=ebdssbdestsearch.

NOV. 12 SOLUTIONS CONFERENCE – 2019 Join Maner Costerisan from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Lansing Center, 333 E. Michigan Ave. in Lansing, for this opportunity to learn how to leverage your existing business solutions and network with your peers. The cost is $75 and includes lunch and break snacks. Register at eventbrite.com/e/ solutions-conference-2019-registration54404504337?aff=ebdssbdestsearch.

BUSINESS CALENDAR

NOV. 13 BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN WOMEN Join the National Association of Career Women Lansing for lunch from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the University Club of Michigan State University, 3435 Forest Road in Lansing, as Angela Hook, founder of Forever Evolving Woman and author of “Bridging the Gap Between Women,” shares her expertise. “Bridging the Gap Between Women” helps women become successful, impactful and productive. Hook explains how attaining a consistent level of unity with women can be difficult because they interact with unique individuals with different backgrounds, upbringings and expectations. However, they can make efforts to bridge the gap in order to influence and model healthy and whole relationships within the next generation. Visit eventbrite.com/e/bridging-the-gapbetween-women-tickets-76449621877?aff= ebdssbdestsearch for more information.

NOV. 14 BUSINESS SEMINAR SERIES: TAX AND ACCOUNTING FOR YOUR SMALL BUSINESS Tax reform and the new tax laws affected all businesses in 2018. A year later, Simplified Tax & Accounting will reflect on the trends of the new tax code and review the impacts on your overall tax rate, taxable income, and allowable deductions. The event runs from 6-7:30 p.m. at Michigan State University Federal Credit Union’s Farm Lane Branch, 2825 E. Mount Hope Road in East Lansing. Visit msufcu.org/events/session/ tcqrzrx4t37vb4pql1md for more information.

9-10 a.m. immediately following the coffee chat. This will be an open atmosphere to discuss and share professional challenges people are experiencing in their Lean journey and network with like-minded peers. Street parking is available for the event.

NOV. 21 THE DRINKING LUNCH There was a time when it was expected that you’d have a few at your business lunch – and then it vanished. The Drinking Lunch is proud to be bringing back the afternoon libation without judgment. Be sure to bring business cards and raise a toast to The Drinking Lunch. Visit TheDrinkingLunch.com for more details.

NOV. 19 LEAN COFFEE AND TOUR OF NEOGEN Mel Sears from Neogen Corp. will be hosting a Lean Coffee Chat from 7:30-9 a.m. at 620 Lesher Place in Lansing. There also will be an option to tour Neogen from

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NOTABLE NEWS

ATTORNEYS RECOGNIZED AS 2019 SUPER LAWYERS AND RISING STARS

DUNKIN’ RETURNS TO DEWITT

Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC has announced that eight of its lawyers have been named 2019 Michigan Super Lawyers and Michigan Rising Stars. Only 5% of Michigan attorneys are recognized as Super Lawyers, and only 2.5% are named Rising Stars.

Charlie Mahoney, Chris Holman, Louise Holman and Edythe Copeland

The Super Lawyers are Mark J. Burzych for franchise/dealership law; William K. Fahey for state, local and municipal law; Stephen J. Rhodes for energy and natural resources law; and Stephen O. Schultz for employment and labor law.

Holman was named the Michigan Works! Association 2019 Volunteer of the Year. He

The Rising Stars are Ross K. Bower II for state, local and municipal law; Michael J. Cole for franchise/dealership law; Helen E. R Mills for state, local and municipal law; and Christopher S. Patterson for state, local and municipal law.

“In addition to his long-standing service to the Workforce Development board, Chris has served on a number of committees and executive committees,” said Luann Dunsford, CEO of the Michigan Works! Association. “Through his role with the Michigan Future Business Index and Michigan Business Network, he has ensured our team members are connected with businesses and has worked to educate the business community of the role and value of Capital Area Michigan Works! in talent attraction and growth in the region. Chris’ hard work and dedication make him the perfect choice for the Volunteer of the Year Award.”

HOLMAN RECOGNIZED AS VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR The Michigan Works! Association has honored Chris Holman, the director of Michigan Business Network, for his dedication to the growth and promotion of Michigan Works!.

was given the award at the association’s annual conference in Kalamazoo.

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DeWitt’s newest Dunkin’ and Sunoco gas station has almost been completed. It will feature a Tailgaters convenience store. The 8,200-square-foot building will be host to this new “next-generation" Dunkin’. The Dunkin’ will be one of the first in the nation to have an additional drive-thru lane designated exclusively for those using Dunkin’s mobile app for onthe-go ordering, which puts customers in a hurry first in line inside or at the drive-thru. The Tailgaters convenience store will house a wall of liquor, a huge wine selection, a full lineup of craft beer and all the tradition brands customers expect.

EAST LANSING FIRE DEPARTMENT RECEIVES FEMA GRANT The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency has awarded a $462,500 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant to the East Lansing Fire Department. “We are very appreciative of FEMA, Sen. Debbie Stabenow and Sen. Gary Peters and our councilmembers that support this public safety grant program,” said East Lansing Fire

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Chief Randall Talifarro. “We are grateful to receive this funding, as it will help us support our mission and our community.”

As part of its commitment to the communities, Gordmans presented a $1,000 check to a local high school in each city.

The SAFER grant will be awarded in increments over a three-year period, which the Fire Department will use to pay the salary and benefits required to hire and retain three additional firefighters. “This will enhance our emergency response capabilities as the city grows and becomes more densely populated. We hope to retain this modest increase of full-time firefighters after the grant ends if it is economically feasible and projected income tax revenues are realized,” said East Lansing City Manager George Lahanas. “This is a responsible and strategic move by our administration. Our community will be beneficiaries of enhanced safety due to this grant.”

The new stores were part of the Gordmans Grand Opening Tour Celebration, which included 17 new Gordmans stores that opened in September across the country. By the end of the year, there will be over 150 Gordmans across the country.

GORDMANS HOME DÉCOR AND APPAREL DEBUTS On Sept. 17, Gordmans debuted its new Michigan stores with ribbon cuttings in Bad Axe, Caro, Charlotte, Fremont, Hillsdale, Houghton Lake, Ludington, Manistee, Petoskey and St. Johns.

HIGHFIELDS GOLF OUTING BENEFITS CHILDREN, FAMILIES On July 29, Highfields Inc. hosted its 39th annual golf outing, Putt for a Purpose, at Forest Akers West. It is one of the longest-running charitable golf outings in the Lansing area and has raised a net income of over $58,000 for children and families involved in counseling and support programs. Lyman & Sheets Insurance Agency was the title sponsor for the event. The golf outing was followed by a live auction that gave guests the opportunity to participate in “Fund-a-Need,” which raised over $7,000 toward camperships for children involved in Highfields’ programs.

“We are thankful to everyone who participated in the outing, making it possible for children and families to have the opportunity to learn and grow. Camperships enhance treatment for children who have special needs, giving them a chance to participate in positive therapeutic activities,” said Brian Philson, president, and CEO of Highfields.

RUSSELL NAMED NEW MASON CHAMBER EXECUTIVE Sarah Russell was selected by the board of directors of the Mason Area Chamber of Commerce as its new executive director. She began work Sept. 30. Russell has a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in entrepreneurship and small-business management. She also has a post-graduate certificate in counseling. Sarah Russell

Russell will join the other chamber staff members – Victoria Bowerman as the administrative assistant and Hannah Warvel, tracking solution with a simple, intuitive interface that makes it easy to collect, manage and process employee time.

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as the program assistant. The chamber office and Hometown USA Visitors Center is at 148 E. Ash St., across from the Ingham County Courthouse in downtown Mason.

EMMONS PROMOTED TO VICE PRESIDENT AT PERSONNEL WORLD Paige Emmons was promoted to vice president at Personnel World. Emmons joined Personnel World in 2006 as a recruiter in the Lansing office, where she continued her career until 2013. Paige Emmons After a brief separation from the company, Emmons rejoined the team in 2015. In 2016, she became a staffing manager and was put in charge of the Holt location. Since joining Personnel World, Emmons has helped thousands of people in the community find jobs, and she has been an integral part of helping businesses find the best candidates to hire.

MSUFCU NAMED BEST AND BRIGHTEST IN WELLNESS FOR FIFTH YEAR

Michigan State University Federal Credit Union has earned the designation of one of Michigan’s Best and Brightest in Wellness. The Best and Brightest Program honors organizations that make their workplaces and community a healthier place to live and work. MSUFCU has received this award in 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019. So far this year, the credit union’s internal CU Healthy committee has sponsored 340 employee registrations in quarterly CU Healthy challenges, 176 race registrations, 123 sports league registrations, 52 donations to area blood banks and 135 employee flu shots. “This recognition reinforces our commitment to encourage our employees to be healthy by providing a workplace that supports a variety of health-minded activities,” said Silvia Dimma, MSUFCU’s chief human resources officer. “Delivering superior service to our members can best be accomplished by a strong and healthy workforce, so we will continue to make wellness a priority for employees.”

Tracy K. Tolbert

Remittance Processing Specialist

The Best and Brightest in Wellness is an innovative initiative recognizing and celebrating quality and excellence in health awareness. MSUFCU has been selected for this recognition based on its culture of wellness and efforts in employee wellness to make the organization and community a healthier place to live and work.

PHYSICIANS HEALTH PLAN TO LAUNCH MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLAN Physicians Health Plan announced that it will offer a Medicare Advantage plan across 12 counties. Physicians Health Plan, which is part of Sparrow Health System, will offer the new plan in partnership with Saginaw-based Covenant HealthCare, providing seniors with local access to affordable wellness services and confidence that they will remain with their physicians and other community care providers they have come to know and trust. Sparrow Advantage will be available in Clinton, Eaton, Gratiot, Ingham, Ionia, Montcalm and Shiawassee counties. Covenant Advantage, partnered with Covenant HealthCare, will be available in Saginaw, Bay and Tuscola counties.

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“I serve food at the Advent House, and that’s really fulfilling because there are a lot of people who are less fortunate than me and everyone’s so appreciative. Hunger is something that should not be an issue here in the United States. To me, it doesn’t take anything to be kind to anyone and it’s very important for me to give back to others. I think that gives them inspiration and hope, to see someone like me in there serving them, because we’re no different from anybody else.”

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In Calhoun and Kalamazoo counties, seniors will have access to care through PHP Advantage. Eligible enrollees can begin to sign up for the new plan during the Medicare annual enrollment period that started Oct. 15. Coverage for beneficiaries will begin Jan. 1. “For nearly 40 years, PHP has served as a locally managed, community-based health plan delivering best-in-class customer service,” said Dennis Reese, president and CEO of Physicians Health Plan. “We are excited to extend our personal care and service through a new Medicare Advantage plan. Medicare-eligible seniors will be able to access a broad network of physicians and providers and enjoy a comprehensive approach to their health care from trusted health systems such as Sparrow and Covenant.”

FARM BUREAU ACQUIRES CINCINNATI EQUITABLE COMPANIES Farm Bureau Insurance of Michigan has acquired Cincinnati Equitable Companies. Cincinnati Equitable Companies is the parent company of Cincinnati Equitable Life Insurance Co. and Cincinnati Equitable Insurance Co.

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“Cincinnati Equitable offers Farm Bureau insurance an exciting opportunity to both expand our area of service and provide several new products to our customers, as well,” said Farm Bureau Insurance CEO Don Simon. “We are pleased to welcome President Greg Baker and his associates to our family of companies.” Cincinnati Equitable Life provides pre-need and final expense life insurance solutions in the states of Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, Ohio and Tennessee. Cincinnati Equitable Insurance Co., founded in 1826 and headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, is licensed to sell property-casualty insurance in the states of Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Baker and his associates at Cincinnati Equitable will continue to operate from their home office in Cincinnati.

to office manager in 2013. She was later promoted to branch administration manager in 2017. “Shaunna is a tremendous asset Shuanna Padgett to the bank,” stated Dan Bitzer, president and CEO. “We like to promote from within. Shaunna is an excellent example of that philosophy; we are very fortunate to have her on our team.” Padgett holds a bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University. She is an active member of the Rotary Club of Kalamazoo. In addition, she sits on the Capital Campaign Cabinet for the Hospital Hospitality House of Southwest Michigan and regularly volunteers for Kalamazoo County Ready 4s.

FIRST NATIONAL PROMOTES PADGETT TO VICE PRESIDENT The First National Bank of Michigan board of directors recently promoted Shaunna Padgett to vice president, strategic and operating manager. Padgett joined First National Bank of Michigan in 2010 as a personal banker and was promoted

HELINSKI AND PREUSS JOIN TRITERRA Triterra, a Lansing-based environmental consulting firm, has announced that it has hired two new staff members.

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in environmental studies and sustainability from Michigan State University. His work will be focused on environmental due diligence and natural resource management.

Carter Helinksi

Caitlin Preuss

Carter Helinski has joined as an environmental scientist. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree

Caitlin Preuss has joined Triterra as an environmental scientist, as well. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in environmental studies and sustainability from Michigan State University. Her work will focus on environmental due diligence, and she will perform records search with

risk assessments and Phase 1 environmental site assessments. Her responsibilities will include historical research, site investigation, data interpretations, coordinating fieldwork, and preparing technical reports.

BURCHAM HILLS NAMES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Kari Rennie, who was the former associate executive director at Henry Ford Village in Dearborn, was named director of Burcham Hills and has replaced Pam Ditri, who retired. Kari Rennie

Rennie brings more than 10 years of experience in longterm care management, including more than five years with Life Care Services, Burcham Hills’ management company. “Kari Rennie will continue Burcham Hills’ path of success,” said James Savage, president of the Burcham Hills board of trustees. “Her experience will guide us as we serve our clients and families and move forward with expansion plans, including Stonebriar of Burcham Hills.”

GUZMAN RECOGNIZED AS COLLABORATOR OF THE YEAR

Charlie Mahoney, Rey Guzman and Edythe Copeland

The Michigan Works! Association honored Rey Guzman, talent development liaison for the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and Workforce Development, for his commitment to workforce and economic development. Named the Michigan Works! Association 2019 Collaborator of the Year, Guzman received the award at the association’s annual conference in Kalamazoo. “Rey always works hand-in-hand with his local Michigan Works! partners,” said Luann Dunsford, CEO of the Michigan Works! Association. “He has a commitment to excellence and drive for getting the job done that not many people possess. Rey epitomizes the definition of leadership by 38

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inspiring others and influencing outcomes through his service-based leadership skills.” In his role as talent development liaison, Guzman is responsible for engaging employers and educators to comprehensively address talent needs focused on mid- and long-term development skill gaps in key industries in each region statewide. “I am truly honored and humbled to receive this award and to be recognized by the Michigan Works! Association and all the Michigan Works! agencies that are our most valued partners,” said Guzman.

HOSPITAL NAMES AUGUST CAREGIVER OF THE MONTH

Sparrow Carson Hospital has recognized emergency department registered nurse Nora Ryan as the August Caregiver of the Month for going above and beyond to help an elderly woman find comfort. Ryan found the woman lost near Palo, a small village southwest of Carson City. The woman was disoriented and was from out of town. Ryan assisted her by driving to the Sparrow Carson emergency Department so she could be evaluated and sat with her for over an hour until her family arrived. Ryan demonstrated the ICARE values inside and outside of work. She went above and beyond to provide care for patients every day.

MERGER EXPANDS CARE IN THE CHARLOTTE AREA

Community Hospital. This transition has seen numerous successes, from improved care for patients who have presented chest pain or stroke symptoms to implementing Sparrow’s electronic medical record system at the Charlotte hospital so that providers from throughout the region can better collaborate on care. “We’re extremely proud and excited to formalize this relationship, but ultimately it’s about patients and patient care,” said James Dover, Sparrow Health System president and CEO. “We will continue to expand upon the history of service and patient care that the former Hayes Green Beach already provided, but there will be greater resources so that Sparrow Eaton can grow in line with the growth of the Charlotte-area community.”

Sparrow Eaton Hospital has formally joined the Sparrow Health System, which has expanded and enhanced the patient care and service to Charlotte and the Eaton County area. Nora Ryan, (center), poses with the Sparrow Carson team.

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The announcement capped a three-year transition of the former Hayes Green Beach Memorial Hospital into becoming a Sparrow

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