1. July 2016
Historic Regional Partnership for Greater Lansing
Grub Crawl Draws Hungry Crowd
Focus on Small Business: The Crafty Palate
2. 2
JULY2016FOCUS
A Message From The President
ATHENA WIN........................................15
Blue Cross Blue Shield............................3
Capital Area Michigan Works!.................7
Capital Region Airport..........................11
CASE Credit Union..................................9
Central Michigan University..................17
Dean Transportation................................6
M3 Group................................................5
Mercantile Bank.......................Back Cover
MSUFCU................................................18
NAI/TMN...............................................13
Sparrow.................................................16
Spartan Hospitality..................................7
WKAR....................................................19
ADVERTISERS
GREATER LANSING
IS GROWING AS A
TECHNOLOGY HUB
2016
Board of Directors
Officers
Board Chair
Joe Ford
Netvantage Marketing
Past Chair
John Brown
Jackson National Life Insurance Co.
Chair Elect
Deb Muchmore
Kandler, Reed, Khoury & Muchmore
Legal Counsel
Steve Owen
Foster Swift Collins & Smith P C
Treasurer
Jeff Fineis
Andrews Hooper Pavlik PLC
President
Tim Daman
Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce
Division Directors
Marketing and Communications
April Clobes
MSU Federal Credit Union
Regionalism Initiatives
Mark Burnham
Michigan State University
Membership Services
Patrick Dean
Dean Transportation
Government Relations
Matt Resch
Resch Strategies
At-Large
FOCUS
EDITORS
Ross Woodstock
Eric Dimoff
DESIGN & PRINTING
Spartan Printing, Inc.
MAILING
BRD Mailing Incorporated
ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Trumpie Photography
Lauren Aitch
Our Own Products
David Baker
Farm Bureau Insurance Co.
Stella Cash
Sparrow Health System
Denise Droscha
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
International
Jenn Dubey
University Club
David Ferguson
Ferguson Development
Tricia Foster
CBRE | Martin
Brian Gallagher
Fraser Trebilcock
Davis & Dunlap
Teri Hull
Dart Container
Tom Mee
McLaren Greater Lansing
Steve Reynolds
Accident Fund Holdings, Inc.
Patrick Salow
Hayes Green Beach Hospital
Tim Salisbury
PNC Bank
Heather
Shawa-DeCook
Lansing Board of Water & Light
Fathy Shetiah
7C Lingo
Tom A. Stewart
Common Wealth Enterprises
Bob Tresize
LEAP
Mike Trevorrow
General Motors
Bill Woodbury
Auto-Owners Insurance
I
f you asked most people to name a geographical region of technology in the
United States, areas like Silicon Valley, the Research Triangle in North Carolina
or Austin, Texas would undoubtedly be mentioned. In Michigan, the abundance
of engineering and research talent in the southeastern corridor of the state may top a
few lists as well.
I would add another name worthy of serious consideration, and it is one that has
quietly grown into a technology hub in an almost under the radar sense – the Greater
Lansing region! With more than 400 companies, including some notable success
stories, and 10,000 IT jobs, our region deserves to be “on the map” when it comes to
the recognition of our developing IT sector.
This month’s cover story involves one of
those success stories – Liquid Web. Over
the past 19 years, the Delta Township-
based web hosting company has grown
into a national leader in the industry, now
with more than 30,000 clients around
the world. Founded in 1987, Tech Smith
is another mature technology company
that has evolved into the world’s leading
provider of screen capture and screen
recording software.
There are numerous stories of successful technology start-ups that are now rapidly
growing and investing in our region. Companies such as; AJ Boggs, creating
technology solutions for a diverse group of industries including healthcare, Dewpoint,
a technology based integrator serving numerous markets including healthcare,
government and education, and Netvantage Marketing, a search engine marketing
company that started in East Lansing and has added offices in Grand Rapids and
Chicago.
It is also worth noting the thousands of technology jobs being introduced into the
region as a result of the continued growth in our vibrant insurance and healthcare
industries. One insurance executive said to me recently that his organization has really
evolved into a technology company that sells insurance. The tech jobs being added
through the insurance and healthcare sectors are high-paying jobs that are attracting
and retaining young professionals in our region.
The highly skilled nature of technology jobs will require our region to develop a talent
pool to fill those jobs. Our region’s educational system is rising to the challenge.
Michigan State University is a global leader in supporting entrepreneurial initiatives
and technology commercialization efforts. Lansing Community College has
developed training programs to meet specific jobs needs for our technology sector.
Recognizing the importance of starting students on the career path at a younger age,
the Information Technology Empowerment Center works with students and families
in Michigan to build excitement for coursework and careers in science, technology,
engineering and math.
Our region has a demonstrated track record of generating an entrepreneurial spirit
that is fostering the growth of small businesses. The combination of new ideas and
innovative leadership is why the Lansing region has developed a global presence in the
21st century knowledge-based economy.
Tim Daman
President and CEO
Lansing Regional
Chamber of Commerce
With more than 400
companies, including some
notable success stories,
and 10,000 IT jobs, our
region deserves to be “on
the map” when it comes
to the recognition of our
developing IT sector. ”
TRANSPORTATION
3. 3
JULY2016FOCUS
News & Events
TUESDAY JULY 12 MEMBER MIXER, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Burcham Hills
Foundation, 2700 Burcham Drive, East Lansing. The Burcham Hills Foundation was
incorporated in April 1998. The foundation, on behalf of Burcham Hills Retirement
Community, accepts tax-deductible contributions from corporations, businesses and
individuals. The foundation’s board is a voluntary group representing friends and
supporters of Burcham Hills. The foundation’s strategic focus is to attract the resources
necessary to maintain the buildings, services and programming quality that have been a
part of the retirement community from its inception. Includes hors d’oeuvres. No cost to
attend for Chamber members ($15/non-members). RSVP at www.lansingchamber.org.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 20 WEB-BASED RESEARCH FOR MARKETING
TO THE GOVERNMENT: PART 3, 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m., Lansing Regional
Chamber Insurance Capital Board Room, 500 E. Michigan Ave., Suite 200, Lansing.
In this five part training series, you will learn how to market to the government using
in-depth internet research and other tools you need to succeed in marketing to the
government. This is the third class dedicated to Government Marketing Research-Step by
Step. Topics include: Federal Procurement Data System (FPDS), finding information you
want, contracts being re-bid, finding competitor prices, and much more. There is no cost
to attend, but registration is required. To register, email Kim Langenberg at
klangenberg@lansingchamber.org.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 9 MEMBER MIXER, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m., The View at
Cooley Law School Stadium, Lansing. Join us at The View at Cooley Law School
Stadium, a 2,000 square foot, year-round special events venue. Named after the
extraordinary view of Jackson Field, this new venue offers a unique alternative for hosting
special events including holiday parties, corporate meetings, association events, employee
functions and private social gatherings. With package pricing and full-service catering, it
is the perfect alternative for a fun and unique way to turn your event into the unexpected!
The brand new venue in the outfield building comfortably seats up to 120 guests in a
banquet setting and also offers additional outdoor patio seating overlooking centerfield.
No cost to attend for members ($15/non-members). Includes hors d’oeuvres. RSVP at
www.lansingchamber.org.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 16 2016 LANSING OPEN, 10 a.m. shotgun start at
Eagle Eye Golf Course, 15500 S. Chandler Rd., Bath. As the Greater Lansing region’s
premier golf outing, the Lansing Open attracts the best golfers each year. Played at one
of the state’s most pristine courses, the Lansing Open is a great opportunity to network
with the area’s top business leaders while enjoying a fun and relaxing day. Cost: $250/
member, $295/non-member or $800/foursome (includes greens fee and cart, player gift,
beverage tickets, lunch and dinner). Pre-registration is required. To reserve a sponsorship
or foursome, please contact Travis Richardson at 517-853-6463 or
trichardson@lansingchamber.org. Don’t wait, we will sell out! Includes hors d’oeuvres. No
cost to attend for Chamber members ($15/non-members).RSVP at www.lansingchamber.org.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17 MARKETING TO THE GOVERNMENT:
CRAFTING A CAPABILITIES STATEMENT, 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m., Lansing
Regional Chamber Insurance Capital Board Room, 500 E. Michigan Ave., Suite 200,
Lansing. In this five part training series, you will learn how to market to the government
using in-depth internet research and other tools you need to succeed in marketing to the
government. Federal government buyers ask specifically for Capabilities Statements when
you market to them. Topics include: crafting a professional capabilities statement, what to
put into a state or commercial capabilities statement, where to post it and who to send it to,
and much more. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required. To register, email
Kim Langenberg at klangenberg@lansingchamber.org.
Government Relations Committees are in recess during July and August. Meetings
will resume in September.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network offers the complete insurance solution to protect the
overall health and well-being of your employees.
Contact the Lansing Regional Chamber at 517-487-6340 for more information.
GROUP HEALTH PLANS | SPECIALTY BENEFITS | BCBSM.COM/EMPLOYERS
Give your employees what they deserve.
Bagels on Fridays are a nice touch too.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. R054961
R054961_FOCUSAd.indd 1 5/11/16 9:34 AM
SAVE THE DATE
Tee Up Your Business for Success!
2016 Lansing Open
Tuesday, August 16
Eagle Eye Golf Course
Foursomes and Sponsorships Available!
Contact Travis Richardson at 517-853-6463 or trichardson@lansingchamber.org.
4. 4
JULY2016FOCUS
A. Dean Watkins - East, Inc.
Abbott Road Mini Storage
Adams Outdoor Advertising
Aerotek, Inc.
Americhem Sales Corporation
AW Body Shop
Big John Steak & Onion
Blohm Creative Partners
BRD Printing, Inc.
Cameron Tool Corporation
Capital Area Transportation
Authority (CATA)
Capital Area United Way
Capitol Discount & Second Hand
Store, Inc.
Care Connections
Celebration! Cinema
Chase Creative Unlimited
Common Wealth Enterprises
Cravings Gourmet Popcorn-
Dowtown
Cravings Gourmet Popcorn-Old
Town
Culligan Water Conditioning of
Lansing
Dakkota Integrated Systems, LLC
Day Family Dental
DeBruin Law PLLC
DeWitt Area Chamber of Commerce
Diane S. Enterprises, LLC
Doggy Daycare and Spa
Domino’s Pizza
Elements Studio
EmploymentGroup, Inc.
Farmco Distributing Inc.
Ferguson Development
Flagstar Bank
Foresight Group, Inc.
Grabel & Associates
Great Lakes Treatment Corp.
Grotenhuis, Inc.
Hampton Inn & Suites
Health Care Association of MI
Highlands Cooperative Association
Home Builders Association of
Greater Lansing
Impression 5 Science Center
Insty-Prints Downtown
KI Technology Group - Trivalent
Group
Kitsmiller RV
La Fille Gallery
Lambert, Edwards &
Associates, Inc.
Lansing Courtyard by
Marriott
Lansing Entertainment &
Public Facilities Authority
Lansing Ophthalmology, P.C.
League of Michigan Bicyclists
McCardel Restoration, LLC
McKinney & Associates
Meijer Inc.
Michigan Certified Development
Corporation
Michigan Forest Products Council
Michigan Wildlife Conservancy
Mid-Michigan Mechanical
Contractors Association
Midtown Brewing Co.
Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone,
P.L.C.
Mount Hope Church
NEO Center
Ngage Management
O’Leary Paint
OLIVET NAZARENE
UNIVERSITY School of Graduate
& Continuing Studies
P.I. Engineering
Penn Station East Coast Subs
PM Environmental, Inc.
Principal Financial Group
PTD Technology
Rathbun Agency, The, Inc.
RSI Logistics, Inc.
Shannon L.W. Schlegel, PLLC
Shinberg Insurance Agency, Inc.
Simplified Accounting & Tax
Service, Inc
Sparrow Health System
TechSmith Corporation
University Club at the Henry Center
Complex, The
Valley Estates Mobile Home
Community
Volunteer Energy
Western Michigan University-
Lansing Campus
Wickens Group
Young Automotive Group, Inc.
Young Chevrolet Cadillac
Thank You Renewing Members
Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce members have unparalleled access to their
company and staff profiles on the LRCC website. To access and update this information
at any point, visit www.lansingchamber.org and enter your username and password.
If you have not yet logged into the site, please follow the simple password reset
instructions. Call (517) 487-6340 with any questions.
A DEAN WATKINS –
EAST, INC.
60 years
CAPITAL AREA
TRANSPORTATION
AUTHORITY (CATA)
40 years
CAPITAL AREA
UNITED WAY
40 years
MILLER, CANFIELD,
PADDOCK AND
STONE, P.L.C.
35 years
HIGHLANDS
COOPERATIVE
ASSOCIATION
25 years
P.I. ENGINEERING
15 years
VALLEY ESTATES
MOBILE HOME
COMMUNITY
15 years
CAMERON TOOL
CORPORATION
10 years
KITSMILLER RV
10 years
LAMBERT, EDWARDS &
ASSOCIATES
10 years
MICHIGAN FOREST
PRODUCTS COUNCIL
10 years
YOUNG AUTOMOTIVE
GROUP, INC.
10 years
CHASE CREATIVE
UNLIMITED
5 years
CRAVINGS GOURMET
POPCORN – OLD TOWN
5 years
DAKKOTA INTEGRATED
SYSTEMS, LLC
5 years
CRAVINGS GOURMET
POPCORN – OLD TOWN
5 years
EMPLOYMENTGROUP,
INC.
5 years
FLAGSTAR BANK
5 years
HEALTH CARE
ASSOCIATION OF
MICHIGAN
5 years
MICHIGAN CERTIFIED
DEVELOPMENT
CORPORATION
5 years
Chamber MilestonesWe’d like to offer a special salute to these great organizations that reached milestone anniversaries as Chamber
members this month. Thank you for your continued support through the years!
5. 5
JULY2016FOCUS
Welcome New Members
ADVANCED INSURANCE
MARKETS, LTD.
1969 Cedar St.
Holt, MI 48842
www.greatagency.org
517.699.0467
ANCORA PROPERTIES
6119 28th SE Ste 10
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
www.ancoraproperties.com
517.862.4712
BELENS FLORAL
1434 E. Jolly Rd
Lansing, MI 48911
517.322.2671
COUNTRY CLUB OF LANSING
2200 Moores River Drive
Lansing, MI 48911
www.cclansing.org
517.318.5205
FISHBECK, THOMPSON,
CARR & HUBER, INC.
1515 Arboretum Drive SE
Grand Rapdis, MI 49546
www.ftch.com
616.575.3824
GIGI’S CUPCAKES
1020 Trowbridge Rd
East Lansing, MI 48823
www.gigiscupcakesusa.com
517.679.3982
KELLER WILLIAMS
3490 Belle Chase Way Ste 130
Lansing, MI 48911
www.nancyknupfer.com
517.896.0025
LANSING ART GALLERY
119 N Washington Sq.
Lansing, MI 48933
www.lansingartgallery.org
517.374.6400 ext 2
LANSING GARDENS
1434 E. Jolly Rd
Lansing, MI 48911
517.882.3115
MICHIGAN COMPANY
INCORPORATED
2011 N. High St.
Lansing, MI 48906
517.484.9312
OLGA’S KITCHEN (FRANDOR)
354 Frandor Ave.
Lansing, MI 48912
www.olgas.com
517.332.2500
OZONE’S BREWHOUSE
305 Beaver St.
Lansing, MI 48906
616.405.1392
STILES LANDSCAPE
1434 E. Jolly Rd.
Lansing, MI 48911
www.stileslandscape.com
517.202.0688
SWEET LORRAINES MAC N CHEEZ
547 East Grand River Ave.
East Lansing, MI 48823
www.macncheez.com
517.325.0850
TELLUSNOW SYSTEMS
P.O. Box 144
Topinabee, MI 49791
www.tell-us-now.com
406.231.1541
THATCH COMPUTER CONSULTING
2184 Belding Ct.
Okemos, MI 48864
www.thatchcc.com
517.449.0009
WADDELL AND REED FINANCIAL
ADVISORS
727 Lincoln Ct.
Lansing, MI 48917
www.westmichigan.wrfa.com
517.323.9900
group
• Gain awareness through earned media
• Stay top of mind with your target audience
• Manage your reputation
What’s your plan?
517.203.3333
www.m3group.biz
BRAND FORWARD WITH PUBLIC RELATIONS
6. 6
JULY2016FOCUS
#LoveLansing
I
t’s Friday night and you’re looking for something local and new to do. You’re
looking for the perfect mix of creative people and ideas – street art, pop-up
theatre, local music, distinctive exhibits, performances, dance and so much
more – and you’re looking for it to happen in your neighborhood, at your favorite
places, at the same time. You want to wander and gather in small shops, galleries,
offices, alleyways, parking lots, bars and museums, dense with diverse people,
culture and ideas.
Where does this happen? Launched in May 2016, new Friday nights are
popping up in neighborhoods all around Lansing to do just that, giving you the
opportunity to really get to know your city and its people.
This is a new Friday night – your night, your art, your place. This is Arts Night
Out.
You wanted something exciting, cooperative and boundless. You wanted
something to draw you out into the places you forget to visit and highlight those
you walk by every day. Arts Night Out has been created to do exactly that.
We heard you.
Presented by the Arts Council of Greater Lansing, in partnership with our local
commercial and business associations, Arts Night Out is a monthly event series
that invites you to visit four different Lansing neighborhoods to experience urban
space and creativity in unexpected ways. Consider your local yoga studio filled
with pottery wheels and clay throwers. Think what would happen if the corner
hardware store turned scrap art gallery and your local pub was re-vamped into
an intimate spoken word speakeasy. Imagine parklet donut bars outside your
accountant’s office and your favorite art gallery partnering with their neighboring
coffeehouse to present the swirling deliciousness of foam latte artwork.
We’re building collaborative and inherently creative mash-ups and whatever way
you can participate, we want you to be a part of it.
For information on the next Arts Night Out, visit www.myartsnightout.com.
GREATER LANSING’S
ARTS NIGHT OUT
deanblackcar.com | (800)282-3326
Arrive in style with Dean Black Car.
Welcome Home.
Dean Black Car provides a safe, professional and comfortable
environment to get you and your team where you need to go.
Whether traveling from the airport or to a special event,
Dean Black Car can take you there.
Call today or visit us online to book your next trip.
7. 7
JULY2016FOCUS
T
he Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) partnered
with Eastwood Towne Center to create a recipe for success at the 7th
annual Grub Crawl, held Tuesday, June 7. More than 500 LRCC and
community members attended and enjoyed great food and great times with
friends and family, marking another successful year for the annual event. The
Chamber would like to thank all of the volunteers who contributed their time
and assistance to the celebration, as well as all of the participants who did their
part by enjoying the festivities!
Thank you to this year’s Grub Crawl sponsors. Without their support, the
event would not have been such an outstanding success!
• ArtCraft Display
• CASE Credit Union
• Dean Transportation
• DTN Management
• Eastwood Towne Center
• Flavored Threads
• Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Spartan Printing & Promotional Products
Thank you to our participating restaurants that provided tasty food and
beverages, creating a fun filled atmosphere for the Grub Crawl.
• Bravo! Restaurant & Café
• Champps
• Chapbook Café (inside Schuler Books & Music)
• Claddagh Irish Pub
• Max & Erma’s Restaurant
• McAlisters Deli
• Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt
• Mimi’s Sweet Shop
• Mitchell’s Fish Market
• P.F. Chang’s
• Pancheros Mexican Grill
• Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill
2016 GRUB CRAWL DRAWS
HUNGRY CROWD!
#LoveLansing
Grub Crawlers enjoy food, beverages and fun at the 7th annual Grub Crawl at
Eastwood Towne Center
BOOK YOUR
HOLIDAY PARTYSpartan Hospitality Group (SHG) at Michigan
State University is ready to help you book your
2016 holiday party. For more information about
how to host a seamless holiday event, contact
the SHG Sales Office.
(517) 432-3086 | kelloggcenter.com
WHO WILL TREAT YOU LIKE A VIP? SPARTANS WILL.
KELLOGG CENTER | BRESLIN | UNION | SPARTAN SIGNATURE CATERING
8. 8
JULY2016FOCUS
Members Get More
O
ur mission at the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) is
to serve our membership by delivering value to each and every member.
By engaging with the Chamber, you are investing in the growth and
success of your business. As a member, enjoy access to members-only perks and
discounts, exclusive advertising and networking opportunities and enhanced
exposure for you and your business. Your success is our business!
TECHNOLOGY AND COMMUNICATION
TOOLS
• FOX 47: One complimentary three minute segment
on the “Morning Blend” recorded at WSYM TV
studios
• Michigan Business Rap: “Entrepreneur Friday”
radio program that airs the second Friday of each
month featuring business experts and insights to
help you grow your business
• Michigan.com: FREE admission to all Lansing
State Journal-hosted Digital Education Seminars
• Comcast Business Class: Exclusive pricing options
for Chamber members
• FOCUS Magazine: Monthly publication of the
Chamber packed with advertising and marketing
opportunities including complimentary placement of
company news in the Members on the Move section
• E-Chamber Connect: Monthly marketing piece delivered by email to more
than 3,000 Chamber members and Greater Lansing decision makers
CONTINUING EDUCATION AND TALENT
DEVELOPMENT
• Davenport University: Community Leader
Scholarship worth up to $1,500 based on the
number of credits taken
(available to all employees of Chamber members)
• Olivet Nazarene University: Twenty percent
discount on the tuition-per-credit hour price for
select programs (BBA, BAS, BCJ, MBA, MOL,
MEM, RN-BSN, and MSN) and one-time
application fee of $50 will be waived
• Cornerstone University: Chamber members qualify
for a 10 percent discount on tuition for professional
and graduate studies programs, application fee is
waived, and up to four complimentary education and
financial aid workshops per year
• Spring Arbor University: Chamber members are eligible for up to a
$4,000 discount on online and one-night-a-week adult programs in Lansing
(the scholarship may be applied to Associate, Bachelor, or Master in
Business, Nursing, Social Work, or Counseling degrees)
INSURANCE SAVINGS
• Accident Fund Insurance: Five percent
discount on workers compensation
premiums and the opportunity to qualify
for a year-end dividend check
• Auto-Owners Insurance: Discounts of up
to 12 percent on business, home,
personal umbrella, and personal
automobile insurance
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan: LRCC exclusively endorses Blue Cross
Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network, offering businesses a wide
variety of choices for traditional coverage, free direct billing and
administrative assistance, saving you time and money
OFFICE PRODUCTS
• DBI We Do Office:
o Up to 60 percent off on more than 200 best value items
o Free next day delivery (no minimum order)
o Online purchasing options, phone or fax
o Local dedicated customer service
representative
o Analysis of expenditures for optimal savings
PASCHAL SECURITY
SYSTEMS LANDS FIRST
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
CONTRACT
LRCC PTAC Office Instrumental in Securing Government Dollars
After a career in law enforcement, Paschal decided to use her skill set to
pursue the business side of security and private investigations. In 2007, Paula
started Paschal Security Systems
which offers Security Guards
Services, Private Investigations,
Fingerprinting, Employment
Screening, and Drug Testing.
“I saw an opportunity to see
growth and potential and took
it,” owner Paschal said. “Being an
entrepreneur is challenging but I
enjoy being able to provide jobs for
people in the community and
providing the services needed to keep them safe. I am also thankful for the
opportunity to have something to pass on to my children, and contribute to the
economic development and success of Michigan’s economy.”
DELIVERING VALUE WITH EXCLUSIVE
MEMBER BENEFIT PROGRAMS
Paula Paschal
9. 9
JULY2016FOCUS
With the help of Lansing’s Regional Chamber’s Procurement Technical
Assistance Centers of Michigan (PTAC) office, Paschal recently received her
first federal government contract. She is grateful to have someone walk her
through the paperwork, using all available resources and professionals who have
a strong background in federal contracts. Paschal notes that it was especially
meaningful to her as it has been harder for women to receive federal government
contracts.
“The PTAC office has helped me expand and grow,” said Paschal. “From the
time I started using it, it has been very helpful and without such services, small
business owners would not be able to do all that they do,”
The PTACs provide local businesses with the resources and know-how to
successfully obtain government contracts. Through seminars, events, training
and consultants, PTACs assist Michigan businesses with obtaining and
performing on federal, state and local government contracts, all at no charge to
the business.
Resources like these are why Paschal considers the Lansing area to be her
foundation. She states that small business owners in Lansing have the ability
to grow and cease opportunities with the support from local PTAC and other
community resources to expand their businesses.
By placing a high emphasis on the customers, Paschal Security Systems centers
their values around integrity, honor, and respect. Paschal Security Systems
provides Services with integrity, by honorable professionals, with respect for your
business. Paschal Security Systems’ services are customized to interact, interlock
and overlap security features to provide mutual support and cost effective security
measures for their clients. This includes providing community training for
their customers to develop tactics to protect themselves and become capable of
preventing crime.
“Every person is worth being protected,” said Paschal. “We at Paschal Security
Systems provide quality services that use local and national resources to hire and
train employees and our customers to make sure they stay safe.”
Paschal Security Systems distinctively leads with a proactive, consultative
approach to security. The organizing uses decades of experience in law
enforcement and security guard services to offer extensive and continuous
training for both their staff and customers. Specific services include guarding
Construction Sites, Special Events Security, commercial and retail properties,
and manufacturing facilities.
In the future, Paschal hopes to expand to other states.
For more information on Paschal Security Systems and all of their services, visit
www.paschalsecurity.com or call 517-269-9629.
The PTAC of South Central Michigan covers Jackson, Hillsdale, Lenawee,
Ingham, Eaton and Clinton counties. The Enterprise Group of Jackson serves
as the PTAC host organization and covers Jackson, Hillsdale and Lenawee
counties. LRCC operates the PTAC satellite office covering the tri-county
region.
To discuss the variety of ways that PTAC can help your business, contact Kim
Langenberg at 517-853-6445 or e-mail klangenberg@lansingchamber.org.
www.casecu.org
Our service. Your success.
Federally Insured
by NCUA
Your vision. Our value.
CASE Business Services.
Members Get More
10. 10
JULY2016FOCUS
I
n a world where it is commonplace for organizations to boast of their
commitment to “the best in customer service,” such claims can easily seem
cliché. For Delta Township-based technology company, Liquid Web, world-
class customer service has been their ticket to phenomenal success. In fact,
Liquid Web has become a leader in the professional web hosting industry as
a result of unwavering dedication to premium customer support. Liquid Web
CEO Jim Geiger says that commitment is shared by every employee in the
organization.
“There are very few companies that a support person will brag to the CEO
that they just spent an entire shift solving a complex problem for one of our
customers,” said Geiger.
Liquid Web encourages its skilled staff to commit to being part of what it calls
its “Heroic Support Team.” One-hundred and fifty of the nearly 500 employees
at the company have received the prestigious Red Hat certification, and Liquid
Web is one of only three companies in North America to have their own Red
Hat training facility on site. Geiger says the results have been that fully one-third
of the company’s 30,000 customers have been generated as a result of word-of-
mouth advertising.
“We look to earn the right to be considered heroic to our customers,” said Geiger.
Liquid Web’s status in the industry has increased steadily since its founding in
1997. The company continued to grow steadily even in the face of the difficult
recession years. Liquid Web has won the INC 5000 Fastest Growing award nine
times since 2007. Focusing on small businesses with $10 million or less in annual
revenues, Liquid Web has become one of the leaders in Greater Lansing’s rapidly
growing technology sector. Company founder Matthew Hill sold Liquid Web
to Chicago-based Madison Dearborn Partners one year ago. Geiger, who had
founded and sold a telecommunications and IT company in Atlanta also invested
in Liquid Web and became CEO.
Geiger credits some of Liquid Web’s success to the fact that the company also
owns its own data centers, somewhat unusual in the web hosting industry. Liquid
Web has three data centers in Delta Township, one in Scottsdale, Arizona and a
fifth in Amsterdam. Additionally, Geiger says the fact that the company employs
its own highly skilled engineers is a difference maker in the industry.
“It’s not often a customer can call a web hosting company and have the engineer
right on site,” said Geiger. “Here, our engineer can literally walk across the room
and swap out a hard drive and have the customer up and running in a matter of
minutes.”
Attracting and retaining great talent is a challenge in the technology industry.
Liquid Web engineers have specialties in technical support, server set-up,
database administration, advanced networking, security, migrations, system
restoration and more. The company has built a strong relationship with
Michigan Works! Association and Lansing Community College to help identify
and develop talent. Liquid Web has also begun to build stronger ties with
Michigan State University.
LIQUID WEB: WORLD-CLASS HEROIC SUPPORT
The cool culture at Liquid Web reflects an overt philosophy that treating employees like their best customers not only helps attract and retain great talent, it
manifests itself in great customer service.
11. 11
JULY2016FOCUS
“The talent is all home grown,” said Geiger. “More recently we
have been trying to become more involved in the fabric of the
community.”
“For a long time we didn’t have the manpower to commit
to the outreach,” said Liquid Web’s communications
director, Cale Sauter. “It’s a good idea to keep more
of that home-grown talent in the area that might
not even know that we existed.”
A look around the Liquid Web facility on Ena
Drive in the southwestern corner of the metro
area would suggest the company has done a good
job of building a culture that fits the technology
talent that is the core of the organization. In
addition to a generous benefits package, Liquid
Web offers employees flexible scheduling, casual
dress, free Friday lunches and free soda. A visitor
would also notice staff on motorized scooters, a pool
table, foosball, video games, an arcade cabinet, a lounge
and theater, and workout facilities.
Employees at Liquid Web lead efforts to engage in community
outreach. One of the team members participates as an amateur
stock car driver at a local speedway. Liquid Web supports his interests
by providing a bus for a school bus race, which is painted annually by an on-staff
graffiti artist.
“He paints the bus to match the different theme they have for the race each year,
said Sauter. “We give away free tickets for what is really a nice family event.”
The cool culture at Liquid Web reflects an overt philosophy that treating
employees like their best customers not only helps attract and retain great
talent, it manifests itself in the great customer service for which the company is
legendary.
“I would say the commitment to the customer is what leads our culture,” said
Geiger. “We all follow it. We are committed to it and we are committed to being
heroic to one another, as well.”
For much of its existence, Liquid Web has been somewhat under the radar in
Greater Lansing.
Geiger is seeking to
change that as he and
his team have engaged
in more outreach
throughout the region.
“I like the help of the
community and I like
to help the community,”
said Geiger. “We like to
be part of the fabric of
the community.”
Geiger forecasts
continued growth
for Liquid Web, which is hiring at a rate of ten new employees per month. He
notes that the company historically had a technology focus and forecasts a more
strategic effort towards boosting revenues.
“I think we have a tremendous opportunity,” said Geiger. “It’s an enormous
marketplace. It’s growing double digits a year.”
The company is about to begin discussions for construction of a new data center,
which could possibly be built in the Greater Lansing region. Lansing does offer
many advantages over other parts of the country, particularly in the cost and
structure. Additionally, Lansing’s geography is friendly to data servers in that
this region doesn’t suffer violent weather such as hurricanes and earthquakes.
Geiger hopes the company becomes even more vital to the regional economy.
“We hope to be one of the biggest employers in the Lansing area,” said Geiger.
A simple, but powerful commitment to solving problems for customers combined
with great technical expertise, a sound strategy and a commitment to a great
culture all seem to have Liquid Web poised for success at the next level and
beyond.
FLY THE ONLY DAILY NONSTOP
LANSING TO
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Book on aa.com. .
Liquid Web CEO Jim Geiger refers to himself as the
Chief Encouragement Officer
12. 12
JULY2016FOCUS
PEOPLE NEWS
Sixteen Sparrow nurses were given special recognition for their quality, compas-
sionate care and service as part of activities celebrating National Nurses Week.
Selected as Nurse of the Year in their specialty areas at were: Terry Ballinger,
BS, RN, of Bath Township - Behavioral Health; Mara Bray, RN, of Lansing
- Emergency Services; Marcia Chaney, BS, RN, of Mason - Perioperative Ser-
vices; Kristine Coe, MS, RN, of Okemos - Women and Children Services; Tracy
Farthing, BSN, RN, CNML, of Lansing – Management; Tiffany Fordham, RN,
of East Lansing - Medical/Surgical Services; Tamara Hebert, RN, of Lansing
- Critical Care/Stepdown Services; Marci Johnson, BSN, CCM, of St. Johns -
Professional Support; Philip Shipley, MSN, CRNA, of Holt - Advanced Practice/
Education; Karen Suchek, RN, of St. Johns – Hospice; and Karen Townsend,
BA, of Okemos - Sparrow Clinics/Practices/Affiliates.
AF Group announced the appointment of
Lisa Corless as president and Bryan Bog-
ardus as executive vice president and chief
operating officer.
The FTCH Board of
Directors is pleased to
announce the follow-
ing promotions: senior
associate, Gregory A.
Tkacz, PE; associate;
Michael S. Apgar, Ryan
R. Eversole, PE, Tia L.
Klein, PE, Peter A. Lepczyk, CPG, James A. Miloch, PE and William L. Rapson,
RA.
Camp Highfields announces their 2016-2017 new board members: Elaine Barr,
staff attorney at Legal Services South Central Michigan; Carol Giacoletto,
retired, V.P. and senior relationship manager at JP Morgan Chase Bank; Mat-
thew J. Greenberg, attorney at Miller Canfield; Kris McVicar, home mortgage
consultant, Union Plus mortgage specialist at Wells Fargo Home Mortgage; Lt.
Christopher A. Simpson, patrol operations commander at Jackson Police Depart-
ment; Highfields 2016-2017 new board officers: Mark Emmert, chairperson
– vice president at The Dart Bank and Mark Kellogg, chair-elect – shareholder at
Fraser Trebilcock Davis & Dunlap, P.C.
WKAR television station manager Susi Elkins has been named
interim director of broadcasting and general manager of
WKAR Public Media at Michigan State University.
PM Environmental CEO and Founder, Michael Kulka,
recently won the Courage in Leadership PRISM Award from
EDR, a leading provider of data and technology to property
due diligence professionals.
Jack Gould, a junior at Michigan State University, has joined
Lezotte Miller Public Relations Inc. as a summer intern.
Hayes Green Beach Memorial Hospital’s Breast Care Center
team is pleased to announce the addition of Loni Allaire, R.N.,
as their new nurse navigator.
LAFCU employee Teri Krupa, of Eaton Rapids, has been hon-
ored as the first Eaton Rapids Business Employee of the Year
by the Eaton Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce.
Capital region economic development and employment successes were among
those celebrated by state leaders at the Michigan Works! Impact Awards in May
2016. Lt. Gov. Brian Calley joined local lawmakers and statewide talent develop-
ment officials in recognizing Capital Area Michigan Works!’ partnership with
the Lansing School District and Cristo Rey Community Center to transform the
lives of local students like Dameika Merriwether as well as area resident Cindy
Disbrow and KIRCHHOFF Van-Rob, a Tier 1 auto supplier.
The Greater Michigan Construction Academy Executive Board of Director’s
announces it has promoted Stephanie Davis to the position of vice president of
workforce development and training.
Sparrow has named Michael Reinerth, an experienced leader
in human resources leadership roles, as its new vice president
and chief human resources officer.
Recent Michigan State University graduate Chelsea Van
Camp has joined Marketing Resource Group as an associate
account executive.
Members On The Move
Bogardus
Tkacz
Gould
Corless
Miloch
Van Camp
Apgar
Lepczyk
Kulka
Eversole
Allaire
Reinerth
Rapson
Klein
Krupa
Elkins
13. 13
JULY2016FOCUS
Edge Partnerships has hired Raquel Izzo and Leigh Fitzpatrick as public rela-
tions interns.
A.J. Boggs &
Company, a Michigan-
software development
and managed hosting
company, is experienc-
ing rapid growth and
is thrilled to welcome
the following new staff:
Thomas Porter, director of enterprise systems, will be managing cybersecurity
and systems infrastructure projects; As business administrator, Nancy Klein will
manage projects, support IXN managed hosting, recruit, and lead other AJBoggs
human resources and business processes; and Juan Loaiza, client support team
manager, will lead a group providing health benefits management to individuals
with chronic health conditions.
Granger is pleased to announce several staff changes in its Energy Services
division: Jim Grant, P.E., who previously served as director of engineering and
operations support, is moving to a new role as a director of operations; Marc
Pauley will move from director of operations to the newly created position of
commodities manager; Luke Smith, P.E., manager of construction and engineer-
ing assumes responsibilities that will include planning, design, construction and
operational support for Granger’s landfill gas utilization projects, as well as man-
agement of staff for these projects; and Patrick Triscari recently joined Granger as
project manager.
Moonsail North, a storytelling and strategy agency that focus-
es on helping innovators communicate and grow, announced
the addition of Emily Mata as a public relations intern.
COMPANY NEWS
The Sparrow FastCare clinic at the Okemos Meijer is offering area residents
a revolutionary new concept in fast, convenient access to high quality health-
care. The new clinic inside the Meijer store at 2055 W. Grand River Avenue in
Okemos is the first of its kind in the mid-Michigan region, offering basic medi-
cal care inside a convenient retail location— when and where Patients need it
most.
NAI Mid-Michigan/TMN Commercial is pleased to announce the placement
of Clean Team USA into their new headquarters at 4055 English Oak, Lansing,
MI. This 10,500 sq. ft. suite is owned and managed by Dart Development. Dave
Robinson represented the Tenant - Clean Team USA.
Kuntzsch Solutions is pleased to again be working with the MSU Innovation
Center, which includes MSU Business-CONNECT (the University’s gateway to
the business community), MSU Technologies (MSU’s IP protectors and technol-
ogy transfer office), and Spartan Innovations (the entrepreneurial start-up
catalyzers at MSU). They are conducting research and analysis to help inform
their marketing and outreach efforts.
Prompted by an overwhelming response, Lansing Brewing Company (LBC) is
distributing its beer to an estimated 20 area bars and establishments. Dan Henry
Distributing Company, LBC’s first and only distributing company, will distrib-
ute the beer to Clinton, Ingham, Eaton, Calhoun and a portion of Livingston
counties.
MSU Federal Credit Union is proud to announce that it has been selected as one
of West Michigan’s 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® by the
Michigan Business and Professional Association (MBPA). The Credit Union
received MBPA’s Elite Overall – Best of the Best award.
Members On The Move
Grant Pauley
Klein
Smith
Mata
Porter
Triscari
Loaiza
Nice People. Great Results.
At NAI Mid-Michigan TMN Commercial, we have created something very
special. We have a dedicated team of professionals who understand the
Commercial Real Estate Market. They are here to help you maximize the
return on your investment. Nice people getting great results.
2149 Jolly Road, Suite 200 • Okemos, MI 48864
517.487.9222 • www.naimidmichigan.com
#1 in Mid-Michigan Commercial Real Estate
#1 in Real Estate Advisors - More Advisors for Better Service
#1 in Commercial Property Listings - More Inventory for Better Selection
14. 14
JULY2016FOCUS
Members On The Move
More than 150 Volunteers from throughout the area were recently honored for
their service to Sparrow patients and the mid-Michigan region at the Sparrow
Women’s Hospital Association’s 120th Annual Meeting and Luncheon.
Janet Hines being presented with the 60-year service award by Barbara
Given, Ph.D., Chair, Sparrow Board of Directors, and Dennis Swan, Sparrow
President and CEO.
NAI Mid-Michigan/TMN Commercial is pleased to announce that they
have been chosen to be the leasing agent and property manager of the Lansing
Towne Center - 5415 W. Saginaw Hwy. Located in Delta Township, this
111,815 sq. ft. retail center is directly across the street from the Lansing Mall.
Jim Vlahakis and Ed Weaver represent the Owners of this retail center.
Peckham, Inc. was named by Great Place to Work® as one of the best workplaces
for giving back in the United States. To create this list, Fortune magazine and
Great Place to Work surveyed more than 240,000 randomly-selected employees
and collected information from nearly 600 organizations.
As part of its continued commitment to improve access for residents in the com-
munity, McLaren Greater Lansing has committed $75,000 in support of Care
Free Medical.
Kuntzsch Solutions supported The Right Place, the regional economic
development organization in west Michigan, to complete an assessment of the
workforce development and training landscape in the Region.
CBRE|Martin is pleased to announce that The Lally Group, PC, a full service
accounting and consulting firm, has leased 2,879 SF of Executive West, a multi-
tenant office building located at 7335 Westshire Drive in Lansing, Mich.
Doberman Technologies recently was named for the first time to the MSPMen-
tor.net 501 List: The MSP Mentor 501 list is the top 501 IT service providers in
the country. Doberman was also named to the SMB100 List for the second year
in a row, which is the top 100 Small Business IT focused service providers with
under 15 staffs in the country.
The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) and Spartan Innovations host-
ed The Hatching business pitch competition on May 26, 2016 at Dublin Square
in East Lansing. Local entrepreneurs and supporters attended this event to cheer
on the next big idea they’d like to see hatch in Lansing. The winning idea, Bub-
bly, was presented by Connor McInnery, Alex Meverden and Max O’Connor,
and is a refreshing sparkling water made with organic caffeine and natural flavor.
CBRE|Martin is pleased to announce that C2AE, a Michigan-based, national
architecture and engineering firm, has leased 13,500 SF of office space in the
Hollister Building located at 106 W. Allegan in downtown Lansing, Mich.
C2AE’s new office will provide a more effective work space for employees and
clients as it has been designed with spaces for both focused and collaborative pro-
ductive work.
Habitat for Humanity Capital Region is excited to announce that it has been
selected by the City of Lansing Parks and Recreation through a formal request
for proposal process to acquire the Scott Center for $1, currently located at the
southwest corner of S. Washington Avenue and W. Malcolm X Street in REO
Town, Lansing.
The Arts Council of Greater Lansing is proud to present its brand new logo!
Change Media Group made them this beautiful colorful, vibrant logo that aligns
with our mission, our goals and, most importantly, your expectations of what
metro Lansing’s arts council should be!
Doberman Technologies LLC, a local IT management firm, has been nation-
ally recognized as a top IT service provider in the U.S. by CRN.com. This list
showcases the top 250 service providers in the country that are focused on small
business support.
Sparrow Hospital in Lansing and Sparrow Clinton Hospital in St. Johns have
been honored with five awards from a national organization that tracks the top
scores for Patient satisfaction. The awards were: Five Stars: Inpatient Services
HCAHPS - Communication about Medications – Sparrow Clinton Hospital;
Five Stars: Inpatient Services HCAHPS - Pain Management – Sparrow Clin-
ton Hospital; Five Stars: Outpatient Radiology Services Overall Quality of Care
– Sparrow Hospital Ramblewood Radiology; Five Stars: Outpatient Therapy
Services Overall Quality of Care – Sparrow Hospital DeWitt Rehabilitation; and
Four Stars: Emergency Department Services Overall Quality of Care – Sparrow
Clinton Hospital.
The Michigan Garment Industry Council, which operates out of The Runway
fashion and design incubator in downtown Lansing launched the Road 2 Retail
program on Friday, June 3, for Michigan-based designers. The Road 2 Retail
program is a12-week, curriculum-based program designed to provide Michi-
gan-based apparel designers with the resources to expand their existing fashion
business by way of increased distribution, manufacturing and promoting product
awareness.
Foster Swift has released four new videos in their Legal Basics video series. The
Legal Basics video series, created by Foster Swift attorneys, answers legal ques-
tions businesses and entrepreneurs often have. Topics covered by the four new
videos include: Alternative Dispute Resolution: Facilitative Mediation; Alterna-
tive Dispute Resolution: Selecting a Mediator; Employee Benefits: Retirement
Plan Issues; and Employee Benefits: Importance of Proper Counsel.
Personnel World is answering mid-Michigan businesses’ call for talented staff by
expanding its services with a second office in Holt. The office is located at 2049
15. 15
JULY2016FOCUS
Members On The Move
Cedar St., Suite B. The phone number for both locations is 517-323-3500.
A collaboration between a Sparrow Physician and Michigan State University
researchers will result in a new mobile app that will allow those at risk of heart
disease to monitor what they eat, how they live, and make better choices. The
research is being conducted through the Sparrow/MSU Center for Innovation
and Research, a formal partnership between Sparrow and MSU. Currently in a
prototype phase, the app – called mHeart -- will help users make choices about
what they eat based on the data they enter about themselves. mHeart will tell
them the risks involved in their food decisions.
CBRE|Martin is pleased to present its collaborative newsletter News & Views,
which highlights some of the significant transactions from the past year and
available listings from both CBRE|Martin and CBRE|Grand Rapids. The
growing economy, new job creation, low interest rates and increased consumer
spending were factors driving commercial sales and leasing across Michigan in
2015. Real estate owners saw improved activity in all sectors of commercial real
estate.
The Wharton Center is proud to announce the return of Ernie-The Play to kick-
off the 2016-17 season. Based on the career of famed Detroit Tigers announcer
Ernie Harwell, Ernie – The Play will run at Wharton from Wednesday August
24 through Saturday, August 27.
The Ingham Health Plan Corporation, CareHub Division has received a Two
Year - Level I HUB Certification from the Rockville Institute, Pathways Com-
munity HUB Certification Program.
A.M. Best Company has affirmed the financial strength rating of A++ (Supe-
rior) of Lansing-based Auto-Owners Insurance Company and its four wholly
owned property/casualty subsidiaries. This is the 45th year in a row that Auto-
Owners Insurance has received the highest rating available from the nationally
recognized credit rating agency.
Join us for three days of world-class inspiration,
motivation and business networking at Ignite8
.
IGNITE YOUR PASSION. IGNITE YOUR LIFE.
35th Anniversary Leadership Conference
September 25–27, 2016
Lansing, Michigan
Hosted by
With Special Guest
Martha Mayhood Mertz
Founder of ATHENA International Register at athenaignite.com
17. 17
JULY2016FOCUS
A
major regional partnership announced on June 8 marked the first
time that the three county governments and the Lansing Regional
Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) in partnership with Michigan State
University’s Center for Local Government Finance and Policy have formally
agreed to work together to address priority issues in the region. LRCC and the
Boards of Commissioners in Ingham, Eaton and Clinton Counties have signed
a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) designed to foster collaboration
between the tri-counties to support regional economic growth and policy
initiatives.
“This partnership is unprecedented in many ways and is already resulting in
greater dialogue on how the region can work together to benefit the entire
region,” said Tim Daman, LRCC president and chief executive officer. “We fully
intend to get beyond the dialogue and focus our collective attention on specific
issues that need to be a priority in promoting a higher quality of life in the
region.”
“We all recognize that we must reach across geographical and political boundary
lines to work together on our common challenges,” said Robert Showers, chair
of the Clinton County Board of Commissioners. “It is important for the counties
to provide more leadership on regional issues. This agreement gives us the
opportunity to do so.”
Officials envision a regional collaboration in which participants develop
collective strategies for addressing regional priorities. Among issues likely to
be identified are concerns over infrastructure needs, developing the Michigan
Avenue Corridor, and working with state officials to modify the state revenue
sharing formula for local governments.
“Though each of us represents local units of governments with individual
interests, we recognize that regionally, we are all in this together,” said Kara
Hope, chair of the Ingham County Board of Commissioners. “This partnership
will foster collaborations in a non-competitive, mutually beneficial environment.”
The regional partnership will also provide tri-county units of government the
opportunity to better understand best practices being used to effectively address
financial challenges that are a reality for most municipalities. To that end, the
Ingham, Eaton and Clinton County Boards of Commissioners have all accepted
a position on the City of Lansing’s Financial Health Team (FHT), which has
been working at recommending strategies to strengthen Lansing’s financial
position.
“The decision to join the FHT underscores the recognition in all three counties
that all of us in the region must have a strong central city for the region to
thrive,” said FHT co-chair David Hollister. “We all need Lansing to be vibrant
in order to have the quality of life we all desire whether we live in the urban area,
St. Johns, Mason or Charlotte.”
“It’s no secret that most municipalities face serious challenges with unfunded
liabilities and the inability to finance much-needed essential services including
rebuilding the infrastructure,” said MSU Economist and FHT co-chair, Eric
Scorsone. “Having the counties represented on the FHT will allow a sharing of
best practices that should serve as a model that can be used regionally to attack
those financial concerns.”
Though the MOU is not legally binding, it does provide a framework for the tri-
counties to work together to accomplish several objectives:
• To freely discuss and exchange ideas and concepts regarding policy issues
related to infrastructure, marketing, talent, business attraction and retention, job
creation, regional competitiveness and innovation; and
• To act positively to enhance the image of the region.
“This partnership gives us the opportunity to get beyond the turf struggles and
political divisions that only serve to keep us from achieving greatness,” said Blake
Mulder, chair of the Eaton County Board of Commissioners. “It is my hope that
one day we will all look back on this agreement as the time when the tri-county
region turned the corner and began to build a better region with a quality of life
second to none.”
REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP HAILED AS
‘FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND” IN TRI-COUNTY REGION
The Voice of Business
Ingham, Eaton and Clinton County Boards of Commissioners Join Lansing Regional Chamber in Major Regional Initiative
AT THE LANSING CONVENTION CENTER
Join CMU as we
focus our spotlight
on alumni who are
making a difference
in government and
public service across
Michigan. Each
alumni of CMU’s
NASPAA accredited
MPA program
has a unique story
to share.
June 21, 2016 | 5-7 p.m.
July 19, 2016 | 5:30-7 p.m.
August 16, 2016 | 5:30-7 p.m.
Unique stories,
discussions, refreshments:
Lansing Convention Center,
Governor’s Room
333 East Michigan Avenue
Lansing, Michigan 48933
Find out more today!
RSVP at 517-337-8360
or toll-free 877-268-4636
or online at cmich.edu/EastLansing
Individuals with disabilities requiring an accommodation should
call 800-950-1144, ext. 3018 at least one week before the event.
CMU is an AA/EO institution (see cmich.edu/OCRIE). 45111 5/16
18. 18
JULY2016FOCUS
Focus on Small Business
THE CRAFTY PALATE
CELEBRATES FIRST
ANNIVERSARY
L
ocated just around the corner
from the Michigan State Capitol
Building, The Crafty Palate
celebrated its one-year anniversary in
May. The classic and contemporary
eatery offers a creative American fare
with a worldly twist.
“It’s been a great first year!” said owner
Tim Pinter. “We wouldn’t be where
we are today without the support of
our customers, friends, and family. We
couldn’t be happier to have reached this
milestone.”
In the heart of downtown Lansing, The
Crafty Palate is one of the few sit-down
restaurants that also offers a full bar
to complement every meal and a quiet
atmosphere.
Owners Tim Pinter and his wife, Peggy,
opened up The Crafty Palate in 2015
with hopes to pass it down to their
son Jeremy Pinter, and their current
management staff, General Manager
Colleen Dick and Kitchen Manager
Krista Brundige. Combined, they have
been in the restaurant industry for more
than 20 years.
With a team of long-time family friends
to run the operations, Tim and Peggy
Pinter place high importance on the
family atmosphere that creates a positive
feel in the restaurant. According to Tim
Pinter, their success comes from the hard
work and effort that is placed into the
menu and customer experience.
“We were thrilled to leave our corporate
restaurant jobs and work with Tim and
Peggy, and create our own thing,” said
Colleen Dick, general manager.
The Crafty Palate offers a full breakfast,
lunch and dinner menu that provides a
distinctive experience as the food items
are prepared using family recipes. With
imaginative daily specials and a seasonal
menu that includes deli-style grab-n-
go options, sandwiches and soups, The
Crafty Palate has adapted to the fast-
paced environment of the downtown
Lansing clientele. Tim Pinter places a
high value on their kitchen manager,
Krista Brundige, who continuously brings
new items to the menu from their best-
selling meat loaf to tacos and shrimp.
“Our menu is different than that of other
places. We have different aspects to offer
to our customers,” said Tim Pinter. “We
promote Michigan products, like craft
beers and Michigan wines. We try to
help support the Michigan economy.”
To provide a friendly and casual
experience to customers, The Crafty
Palate uses its event space to put on
exclusive monthly happenings such as
their beer and wine pairings, Painting
with a Twist classes, birthday parties and
natural get-togethers.
In its first year of business, The Crafty
Palate has also been an instrumental
part in supporting the local community
through volunteering and charity events.
Shortly after opening, The Crafty Palate
donated 20 percent of their revenue for
two months for the Lansing school lunch
program. Co-owner, Peggy Pinter, has
been involved with planting flowers on
Washington Square in Lansing.
“It is our desire to do our part to continue
to support the downtown community,”
said Peggy Pinter.
To keep up with The Crafty Palate, visit
their website www.TheCraftyPalate.com
or follow their journey on Facebook or
Twitter under “The Crafty Palate.”
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19. 19
JULY2016FOCUS
Chamber In Action
Lansing Gardens recently celebrated re-opening under the new ownership of Stiles
Landscaping Services with a ribbon cutting on May 25. Lansing Gardens is one of
Lansing’s oldest greenhouses, with a vast variety of home grown flowers, vegetables,
and garden essentials and is located at 1434 E Jolly Road in Lansing. For more than
two decades, Stiles Landscaping Services has been proudly providing Lansing with
exemplary service in all facets of landscaping design and maintenance.
Crafty Palate celebrated its one-year anniversary in Downtown Lansing with a
ribbon cutting ceremony on May 6. The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce
was pleased to be a part of the celebration along with Chamber staff and members
of the Chamber’s Ambassador team. The Crafty Palate is a classic yet contemporary
downtown Lansing eatery. The Crafty Palate features a seasonal menu with daily
specials and a deli for those on the go. The Crafty Palate also offers a full selection of
Michigan Made beer, wine and cocktails to perfectly compliment your meal.
On May 18, the Capital Area Humane Society broke ground on phase one of a
major renovation and expansion. The project will add 5,800 square feet of additional
animal intake space, renovate the existing cat adoption area to include indoor and
outdoor cat enclosures, create a new lobby area to enhance the adoption experience,
as well as add an anti-cruelty department. The project is set to be completed by
the end of 2016. Phase two will begin in 2017 and will add a clinical center for the
treatment of sick and injured animals and a major renovation of the dog adoption
area. The Capital Area Humane Society is non-profit and privately funded regional
animal welfare organization serving Mid-Michigan and beyond. They operate an
animal shelter on the west side of Lansing, as well as a high volume spay and neuter
clinic in South Lansing, and offer a wide range of programs and services to promote
the humane treatment of companion animals.
20. PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
LANSING, MI
PERMIT NO. 689
The Stadium District
500 East Michigan Avenue, Suite 200
Lansing, MI 48912
Ph. 517.487.6340
lansingchamber.org
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