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July FOCUS
- 1. July 2015 Cover Story SponsoredBy: REINVENTING THE ‘UNIQUELY LANSING’ DINING SCENE • A Call for the Next Generation of Leadership • Focus on Small Business: Dr. Susan Maples • LRCC Asks Ingham County to Return Millage to Taxpayers
- 2. 2 JULY2015FOCUS A Message FromThe President Adams ....................................................8 Blue Cross Blue Shield ...........................4 Consumers Energy ...............................13 Cravings Popcorn...................................7 Dean Transportation...............................3 Farm Bureau Insurance.........................14 Gillespie Group ...............................10-11 Michigan.com.......................................17 Leadership Lansing...............................14 MSUFCU.................................................5 M3 Group...............................................9 Mercantile Bank......................Back Cover Sparrow ................................................19 WKAR...................................................18 ADVERTISERS Tim Daman President and CEO Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Leadership Lansing represents an important approach for our region to strategically further the development of the next generation of community leadership.” A CALL FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERSHIP I have written in this column many times before about the history of great leadership in this region. Our Chamber of Commerce was started over a century ago by business leaders with insight, who lured a fledging automaker by the name of R.E. Olds to bring his business to Lansing. Through the years, there are few challenges the leadership in this region has been unable to conquer. That leadership and the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels this region is as evident today as ever. I am privileged to work with a Board of Directors at the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) that represents the best and the brightest of great leadership talent. They come from a diverse cross section of industries and represent businesses of all shapes and sizes. The question many of us around our board table have asked is: Who will be sitting around this table in ten years, and what is our responsibility to help prepare them for this level of community leadership? One of the most important functions of a leader is to develop other leaders. That is why earlier this year the Chamber’s Board of Directors committed to the creation of Leadership Lansing, which is a program aimed at helping this region identify and develop the next generation of community leaders. I applaud our Board for having the insight to recognize the critical importance of this endeavor. It is rewarding to know that there is no shortage of bright, emerging business leadership in this region. For example, this month’s cover story in FOCUS involves entrepreneur Sam Short and his team at The Potent Potables Project, who are reinventing Lansing’s dining scene, and helping create a vibrant urban environment that will be essential in attracting more talented young professionals to Greater Lansing. There are many other great stories of thriving businesses that have been started from the ground up by bright young entrepreneurs, like Chad Jordan of Cravings Popcorn. In the past eight years, the 10 Over the Next Ten Awards, presented by LRCC and Grand River Connection, has recognized 80 outstanding young professionals who are making their mark in this region. I am equally proud of the great team of talented young professionals working here at the Lansing Regional Chamber, including our new Director of Government Relations, Steve Japinga. Leadership Lansing represents an important approach for our region to strategically further the development of the next generation of community leadership. It is our hope over the next decade that upwards of 400 emerging leaders will graduate from this program, and by doing so, will forge a bond with a strong network of great leaders destined to successfully carry this region into the future. 2015 Board of Directors Officers Board Chair John Brown Jackson National Life Insurance Co. Past Chair Bill Kimble C2AE Chair Elect Joe Ford Netvantage Marketing 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 Deb Muchmore Kandler Reed Khoury & Muchmore Government Relations Matt Resch Resch Strategies At-Large FOCUS EDITORS Ross Woodstock Michelle Rahl DESIGN & PRINTING Spartan Printing, Inc. MAILING BRD Mailing Incorporated COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Trumpie Photography ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY The Fresh Image Photography, LLC David Baker Farm Bureau Insurance Co. Stella Cash Sparrow Health System Patrick Dean Dean Transportation Denise Droscha Two Men And A Truck International Jenn Dubey EVOLVE Corporate Wellness David Ferguson Ferguson Development Mike Trevorrow General Motors Brian Gallagher Fraser Trebilcock Davis & Dunlap Andre Hutson Conquest Fitness and Health Tom Mee McLaren Greater Lansing Brian Murty Meijer, Inc. Steve Reynolds Accident Fund Holdings, Inc. Patrick Salow Hayes Green Beach Hospital Tim Salisbury PNC Bank Heather Shawa-DeCook Lansing Board of Water and Light Fathy Shetiah 7C Lingo Tom A. Stewart Common Wealth Enterprises Bob Tresize LEAP Ryan Vartoogian Spartan Internet Consulting Bill Woodbury Auto-Owners Insurance
- 3. 3 JULY2015FOCUS News & Events TEEUP YOUR BUSINESS FOR SUCCESS! 2015 LANSING OPEN TUESDAY, AUGUST 18 EAGLE EYE GOLF COURSE FOURSOMES & SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE! TUESDAY, JULY 14: MEMBER MIXER, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m., Michigan Wildlife Conservancy, 6380 Drumheller Rd, Bath Twp. Get a taste of the outdoors and learn to restore and conserve fish, wildlife and habitat with the team at Michigan Wildlife Conservancy. Enjoy the varied conference rooms which can accommodate personal and business events while taking in views of Priggooris Lake. Includes hors d’oeuvres. No cost to attend for Chamber members ($15/nonmembers). RSVP at www.lansingchamber.org. GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEES ARE IN RECESS DURING JULY AND AUGUST; MEETINGS WILL RESUME IN SEPTEMBER. THURSDAY, AUGUST 6: CHAMBER 360, 8:00 – 9:30 a.m., Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Insurance Capital Board Room, 500 E. Michigan Ave., Ste. 200, Lansing. Chamber members are encouraged to attend Chamber 360 to learn how to maximize your Chamber benefits, meet our staff and network with other members.This is a FREE event, but space is limited.To register for this event, please contact Michelle Rahl, director of business development, at (517) 853-6457 or mrahl@lansingchamber.org. TUESDAY, AUGUST 11: MEMBER MIXER, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m., Studio Two Architecture, 2222 Moores River Drive, Lansing. Join Barry Wood and his team of award-winning architects at Studio Two Architecture as they host the August Mixer. Studio Two looks to provide you with personalized solutions that fit your unique architectural wishes and requirements. No cost to attend for members ($15/nonmembers). Includes hors d’oeuvres. RSVP at www.lansingchamber.org. TUESDAY, AUGUST 18: 2015 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 & 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! Dean Trailways motor coach takes care of your travel so you can get to the Point and focus on the important things. deantrailways.com | 1-800-282-3326 Coasters. Thrill rides. Water park. Dean Trailways: Your Favorite Ride Weekly Trips & Dates at DeanTrailways.com
- 4. 4 JULY2015FOCUS 7C Lingo Abbott RoadMini Storage AT&T Big John Steak & Onion Blohm Creative Partners CameronTool Corporation Capital Area Health Alliance Capital AreaTransportation Authority (CATA) Capital Area United Way Capitol Discount & Second Hand Store,Inc. Care Connections Day Family Dental Demmer Corporation Domino’s Pizza Elements Studio Equity Plus Farmco Distributing Inc. FifthThird Bank FirstMerit Bank Foresight Group,Inc. Gordon Food Service Marketplace-Saginaw Hwy. Great LakesTreatment Corp. Hampton Inn & Suites Health Care Association of MI Home Builders Association of Greater Lansing Hot House,The Hungry Howie’s Pizza Insty-Prints Downtown Jimmy’s Pub Kent Record Management,Inc. La Fille Gallery and Design Center Lansing Courtyard by Marriott Lansing Entertainment & Public Facilities Authority Lansing Lugnuts Lansing Ophthalmology,P.C. League of Michigan Bicyclists Logicalis McKinney & Associates Meijer Inc. Michigan Certified Development Corporation Michigan Forest Products Council Mid-Michigan Mechanical Contractors Association Miller,Canfield,Paddock and Stone,P.L.C. Niowave Inc. O’Leary Paint Option 1 Credit Union Peanut Shop,The Piper & Gold Public Relations PM Environmental,Inc. Practical Political Consulting PTDTechnology Resch Strategies RSI Logistics,Inc. Shannon L.W.Schlegel,PLLC Simplified Accounting &Tax Service,Inc St.Vincent Catholic Charities Strength in Numbers Game Studios,Inc. Valu Land Volunteer Energy Western Michigan University-Lansing Campus Wharton Center for Performing Arts Wickens Group Young Chevrolet Cadillac Thank You Renewing Members Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. R041079 Your Chamber Exclusively Endorses 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. Give your employees what they deserve. Bagels on Fridays are a nice touch too. GROUP HEALTH PLANS | SPECIALTY BENEFITS | BCBSM.COM/EMPLOYERS
- 5. 5 JULY2015FOCUS Welcome New Members Allloans are subject to credit approval. Origination and/or other fees may apply. MSUFCU employees, board members, and their families are not eligible to apply for the startUP Loan. Federally insured by NCUA MSUFCU’s startUP Loan can help get your new business up and running. Then, once you’re up and running, we offer payroll services, lending options, merchant processing, and staff dedicated to helping your business succeed. Contact an MSUFCU business service specialist today. www.msufcu.org/business • 517-664-4848 Yes,You Can Do This 834 DESIGN & MARKETING 560 Fifth St. N.W., Ste. 205 Grand Rapids, MI 49504 616-288-0471 www.834design.com ABC RENTAL CORPORATION 3000 E. Michigan Ave. Lansing, MI 48912 517-377-1919 www.ezpartyrent.com ALLIANCE INTERIORS 4521 W. Mt. Hope Hwy. Lansing, MI 48917 517-322-0711 www.allianceinteriors.com AW BODY SHOP 3303 N. East St. Lansing, MI 48906 517-580-3755 www.awbodyshop.com CAPITOL AREA MANAGEMENT SERVICES 411 W. Lake Lansing Rd. East Lansing, MI 48823 517-339-3040 www.camsllc.net DEBRUIN LAW PLLC 221 W. Lake Lansing Rd., Ste. 200 East Lansing, MI 48823 517-324-4303 www.lansingattorney.com EDWARD HESS, ATTORNEY AT LAW P. O. Box 13135 Lansing, MI 48933 510-975-5574 KNOCKERBALL LANSING 231 N. Magnolia Ave. Lansing, MI 48912 517-803-9758 www.knockerballlansing.com KUNTZSCH SOLUTIONS 300 N. Bridge St. Grand Ledge, MI 48837 517-925-8649 www.kuntzschsolutions.com MBH TRUCKING, LLC 672 N. M52 Webberville, MI 48892 517-521-2124 www.mbhtrucking.net STANLEY STEEMER 831 Kim Dr. Mason, MI 48854 517-883-9001 www.stanleysteemer.com REGENCY AT LANSING WEST 12200 Broadbent Rd. Lansing, MI 48917 517-731-6200 www.cienahealthcare.com 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. ADAMS OUTDOOR ADVERTISING 55 years NAI MID-MICHIGAN/TMN COMMERCIAL 25 years BROGAN, REED, VAN GORDER & ASSOCIATES- OHIO NATIONAL FINANCIAL 25 years THE APOTHECARY SHOP 15 years THRUN LAW FIRM, P.C. 10 years Chamber Milestones We’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!
- 6. 6 JULY2015FOCUS Membership Services Lansing RegionalChamber Hires STEVE JAPINGA AS DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS; MICHELLE RAHL PROMOTED TO DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT T he Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) is proud to announce the hiring of Steve Japinga to the position of Director of Government Relations. LRCC also announced that Michelle Rahl has been promoted to the position of Director of Business Development. As director, Japinga will manage the LRCC’s government relations efforts including issue management, the LRC-PAC, communications and general operations of the government relations division. Japinga has a great history of achieving successful legislative efforts as a strategic planner and experienced team leader. Japinga previously worked with the Michigan State Medical Society where he developed and implemented highly complex strategies and recommendations to influence and promote interests on legislation that impacted the short and long-term goals of the medical community. In addition to his employment experience, Japinga serves on the Board of Directors for the East Lansing Education Foundation, Michigan Political Leadership Program Finance Committee, and is involved in the Lansing area young professionals group, Grand River Connection. Japinga graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. “With over 10 years of experience in the field, Steve has a track record of success,” said Tim Daman, President and CEO of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. “His knowledge and connections within the region will be a key asset to our government relations and advocacy efforts.” Michelle Rahl has worked at LRCC since 2011, most recently as Director of Marketing and Events. In her new position, Rahl will be responsible for directing LRCC’s enhanced membership program including services that provide maximum value to LRCC members, as well as new business attraction and member retention. Rahl will continue to serve as editor of LRCC’s popular FOCUS Magazine. Prior to working for the Chamber, Rahl was an account coordinator for Marketing Resource Group, a Lansing public relations firm. She is a graduate of Ferris State University with a bachelor’s in business and a certificate in public relations. “Michelle has been instrumental in strengthening the Chamber’s events, marketing and communications in recent years, particularly in building our robust social media platform,” said Kristin Beltzer, LRCC Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. “Her skill set is ideally suited for guiding our efforts to successfully connect our members with opportunities and to assist them in achieving their goals. She knows how to bring exceptional value to the LRCC membership.” LRCC also announced additional responsibilities for two other staff members who will help manage marketing and communications. As Manager of Marketing and Graphics, Kari Smith will have oversight of the annual LRCC Membership Directory and web site mobilization. Travis Richardson, Manager of Events and Programming, will assume additional responsibility in managing marketing and communications of the more than 60 annual LRCC events. A new community leadership initiative announced earlier this year by the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce is generating very strong interest from business organizations in the region. Leadership Lansing is seeking to enroll 30 participants in its first annual cohort commencing in October 2015, and to date, applications have been submitted for 50 percent of the available openings in the program. “We couldn’t be more thrilled with the level of interest being shown in Leadership Lansing by a broad cross section of businesses in the region,” said Tim Daman, LRCC president and chief executive officer. “We really want to encourage interested organizations to submit their applications as soon as possible to ensure their emerging leaders will have an opportunity to participate in the program.” Leadership Lansing will be an eight month program in which participants will engage in seven workshops, including an overnight retreat at which they will be exposed to key institutions, industry sectors and business leaders that are the fabric of the Greater Lansing region. Workshop themes are centered on levels of leadership influence, education, healthcare, home-grown entrepreneurship, engagement and quality of life in the region, and creating a vision for the future. Leadership Lansing will be facilitated by credentialed coaches and certified leadership instructors, Susan Combs, MBA, PCC of Susan Combs Coaching and Consulting, and Ross Woodstock, ACC of Kolt Communications, Inc. Tuition for Leadership Lansing is $1,950 and includes all workshops, materials and meals. Applications for enrollment in the October 2015 cohort are now being accepted. Applications are available at www.lansingchamber.org or by calling the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce at 517-487-6340. The application deadline is August 1, 2015. LEADERSHIP LANSING PROGRAM DRAWING STRONG COMMUNITY INTEREST
- 7. 7 JULY2015FOCUS Government Relations LANSING CHAMBER ASKSINGHAM COUNTY TO RETURN MILLAGE FUNDS TO TAXPAYERS I n a letter to the Ingham County Board of Commissioners, the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce has requested that $3.4 million dollars raised in the first year of a five-year millage renewal for the Ingham County Health Plan be returned to county residents. The millage was approved by Ingham County voters to help provide healthcare services to low income citizens. Since that time, participation in the Ingham County Health Plan has dropped dramatically due to the fact that low income citizens are now having their healthcare needs met by the Affordable Health Care Act and expansion of the state Medicaid program. A portion of the letter to County Commissioners reads: “The Ingham Health Plan continues to maintain a robust $10 million fund balance and since participation in the program is down to 1,000 subscribers, we feel compelled to state the obvious – the millage increase placed before voters last fall was simply not needed. Now, the question becomes, what should be done with the excess funds being generated by an unneeded millage renewal? It is no surprise that a number of agencies are proposing these tax dollars be diverted to programs they administer, which they claim “fits” within the intent of the language in millage request. We reject those claims. The simple fact is that Ingham County voters approved a millage request to provide basic health services to Ingham County residents who are not eligible for Medicaid under the federal Affordable Care Act. To transfer those funds to several completely different programs would not be consistent with what voters approved. Therefore, we respectfully urge the Ingham County Board of Commissioners to focus on what’s right --- not to disperse this excess money to other programs but to ensure that the current subscribers are provided the care that Ingham County residents approved in November 2014. And if those 1,000 subscribers can be cared for within the current $10 million fund balance, then we ask the Ingham County Board of Commissioners to not levy the Health Services Millage and return the $3.4 million annual millage funds to the businesses and taxpaying citizens of Ingham County.” PINTS AND POLITICS I t was happy hour for state lawmakers, local elected officials and members of the business community at the Pints and Politics reception on Tuesday, June 2. The Lansing Regional Chamber’s annual Pints and Politics event, held at Taps25 in downtown Lansing, gave the folks who work in and around politics and government a chance to relax, network and talk about their favorite subject – politics. Thanks to all who joined us again this year. Special thanks to AT&T for again sponsoring this annual rite of summer in Greater Lansing. A festive crowd enjoyed the food, fun and political discussion at the Pints and Politics reception, held at Taps25 in downtown Lansing.
- 8. 8 JULY2015FOCUS Economic Club T he 400+attendees at the May Economic Club Luncheon left with little doubt about Consumers Energy’s commitment to the Greater Lansing region and the state of Michigan. Keynote speaker David Mengebier also made it clear where his allegiances are at when it comes to things that really matter. Mengebier, who serves as Consumers Energy’s senior vice president of government and public affairs, received his undergraduate degree from Michigan State University and his M.B.A from the University of Michigan. So, whom does he support? “When it comes to football Saturdays or contests on the basketball court, my heart is with the Spartans all the time,” Mengebier told the partisan crowd. Consumers Energy is Michigan’s largest utility, serving 6.5 of the state’s 10 million citizens. Consumers is the 7th largest employer in Michigan, with approximately 15,000 employees. The company is also the fourth largest natural gas/electric company in the nation. Mengebier noted the size of the company’s footprint in the Greater Lansing region, with over 750 employees in Ingham, Eaton and Clinton Counties and more than $5 million invested in local non-profit agencies. Consumers Energy also has close ties with Michigan State University, as evidenced most recently by an agreement for a five-year, $1.25 million research project on renewable energy. Mengebier told the crowd that the cost of energy is a key differentiator in the competition with other states. He noted that Consumers Energy has a petition before the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) that would reduce energy costs for businesses 5-15 percent, which he said will give Michigan a further edge in attracting and retaining businesses in the state. “That will be a very significant tool in our economic development tool box,” said Mengebier. Mengebier expressed concern that a number of scenarios on the horizon could threaten Michigan’s current position of being in what he called an “energy surplus position”. Among those issues are federal regulations imposed as a result of the Clean Power Plan, and the likelihood that 65 power plants will be retired in the Midwest in the next few years, including nine in Michigan. “The energy landscape is changing dramatically,” said Mengebier. Mengebier also pointed to the current debate in Michigan’s state legislature over a proposal to deregulate the utility industry, noting that energy costs in the 14 states that have turned to deregulation are 25 percent higher than the other 36 states. Despite those concerns, Mengebier remains hopeful that state officials will reach a consensus on a sensible strategy. “I’m optimistic the governor and legislature will reach an agreement on energy policy,” said Mengebier. CONSUMERS ENERGY IS INVESTED IN THE LANSING AREA AND MICHIGAN’S ENERGY FUTURE
- 9. 9 JULY2015FOCUS D r. Susan Maplesis not your typical dentist; and her practice, located in Holt, is not your typical dental office. While she and her team are experts when it comes to oral health, together they are also addressing total body health and trying to bridge the gap between dentistry and medicine. Dr. Maples, who prefers to be called by her first name, started Maples Dentistry in 1985, fresh out of dental school. She was 25 years old then and her father suggested that in order to tap into her own creativity and intuition, she should bypass working for someone else and start her own practice instead. “My little team and I were pretty successful from the beginning,” says Dr. Susan. “I have always been blessed to be surrounded by smart coworkers that I could learn from. “ Maples’ creativity has helped her develop an innovative style in facilitating total health among her patients. Her approach has gained her much national recognition including Top 25 Women In Dentistry, Top 8 Innovators in Dentistry and a representative prototype of the Dentist of the Future. So what are these innovations? For one, a new approach to facilitating health in children called the Hands-On Learning Lab, where children experience health-related science experiments at each and every visit. Dr. Susan believes that teach-and-tell learning just doesn’t work anymore and hands-on learning makes an incredible difference. Toddlers, school age children and teens learn how to protect their oral health, make good nutrition changes, ward off systemic diseases and they even get the opportunity to explore the field of dentistry. Because of the learning lab experiences, Maples has 7 of her patients in dental school right now, and more on the way. For adults, Maples has developed a variety of self- screening assessments to test for conditions like periodontal disease, caries, sleep apnea, diabetes, acid reflux and chronic systemic inflammation. She envisions a world where dentists and physicians can work together to not only treat patients, but more importantly, prevent disease before it becomes debilitating. Maples has even compiled many of her best health tips in a book called Blabbermouth: 77 Secrets Only Your Mouth Can Tell You, To Live a Healthier, Happier, Sexier Life. It is set to release this summer. Dr. Susan spends a lot of her free time on the road these days. She has become a prominent health educator in her field. She does presentations on the links between oral health and systemic health, hands- on learning for kids, marketing for private practice, and team building. Maples also consults outside of medicine and dentistry for companies who are creating wellness programs for their employees. She wants to help employers reduce worksite absenteeism and also attract health-minded employees who are more productive. Dr. Susan credits her success to the team caring and patient-dedicated women who work with her. “My team is built entirely around a set of shared values. We are committed to integrity, shared leadership, continual learning and FUN,” says Maples with a big smile. Dr. Maples and her team are working to develop a healthier future for the Lansing region, one patient at a time. HOLT DENTIST HAS DEVELOPED A “TOTAL HEALTH PRACTICE” Focus on Small Business group M3 GROUP BRAND FORWARD 517.203.3333 | www.m3group.biz At M3 Group, we have the creative services you need to move your brand forward. As a full-service branding agency, we are here to support, train, consult, create and guide you on your next big adventure. • Gain awareness through earned media • Stay top of mind with your target audience • Manage your reputation Check out what we can do for your brand at m3group.biz. BRAND FORWARD WITH CREATIVITY From Left to Right: Kelly Mitchell, Corri Richey, Georgette Taylor, Anna Lyon, Susan Maples, Sally Johnson, Jean Voss, Emily Kramer, Sherry Henderson, Molly Day. Not pictured (Elizabeth Howard).
- 10. 10 JULY2015FOCUS R estaurateur Sam Shortis co-owner of The Potent Potables Project—the umbrella company of Zoobie’s Old Town Tavern,The Cosmos,The Creole, a soon-to-be-open New Orleans concept and a gourmet taqueria to be opened this fall (and announced to the public here in FOCUS Magazine!) Short and his partners in The Potent Potables Project are set on redefining the Lansing restaurant business. In doing so, the company is on the leading edge of an urban revival strategy that is bringing new energy to Lansing’s central city and creating a vibrant food district in Old Town Lansing. Short got his start in the industry when a friend asked him to open a restaurant in Boston soon after finishing graduate school. Later, he moved to Phoenix where worked for a restaurant group and pursued a sommelier’s degree. He met his wife at a wedding in Grand Rapids, they dated long distance for a year, and then he got a job in Chicago (where she was living) opening and running restaurants. After deciding that they wanted to start a family and move out of the South Loop of Chicago, his wife, Meghan, got a job at her alma mater—MSU’s College of Law. Short describes their move to the Lansing area as “serendipitous.” “We were sitting down for dinner on Saturday and decided that we wanted to move. Meghan called an old professor (now Dean) on Monday, got a job interview just a few days after that, and then we had to be packed up and moved six weeks later – it was really a wild time,” Short said. “I was also just finishing up my last project in Chicago, so it was really a nice time to step away.” Short says he owes a lot of his success to his wife, who he not only credits with his start in the Lansing area, but also supports him through all of his ventures. After moving to the Lansing area, Short became president of BarFly Ventures, with whom he assisted in the development and opening of Grand Rapids Brewing Company and HopCat in East Lansing amongst other BarFly projects. During that time, he got the chance to work with the legislature on a package of bills spearheaded by the Michigan Brewers Guild. One of the bills changed how growlers were sold in the state of Michigan, leading to Short leaving BarFly Ventures to begin a new company: The Beer Grotto. Along with several partners, including Troy Ontko, Brandon Ansel, and Lisa Manno, Short helped to create The Beer Grotto—a bar and restaurant featuring a hefty craft beer and wine selection and a growler filling station.Their motto is “Taste it. Love it. Tote it.” Patrons of The Beer Grotto are able to taste any beer or wine in the store before making their decision and everything is available to go. At the same time, Short opened Zoobie’s Old Town Tavern with Aaron Matthews and Alan Hooper—two men that would later become Short’s business partners in The Potent Potables Project. “Finding them was really dumb luck,” said Short. “I was referred to Aaron as an attorney and we got talking and we really hit it off. Al Hooper was working with Aaron to buy this building for what would be Zoobie’s in Old Town and I wanted in on the project.” REINVENTING THE ‘UNIQUELY LANSING’ DINING SCENE
- 11. 11 JULY2015FOCUS Together, Short, Matthewsand Hooper make an incredible team. With each coming from a different business background, they work together to ensure that they are creating restaurants that provide the best possible experiences for their customers. Matthews, an attorney, has a lot of experience in law, specifically dealing with liquor licensing. Hooper, on the other hand, provides insight as a developer, and former environmental scientist and geologist. “Our goal is to always refer to the person who has expertise in each area and ask a bunch of questions,” said Short. “There are times when I want to take off on a project, but Al will tell me to hold up, or Aaron will have a completely different perspective that I didn’t even think about.” All of the restaurants created by The Potent Potables Project focus on the individual customer experience and what their goals are when coming into the restaurant.The staff in each of their restaurants is trained to provide a specific customer experience and leave a lasting impression. It is their goal to keep these employees for the long-term by providing many incentives and benefits.They believe that each employee represents the face of the company and it is their passion and work ethic that drives the business. In Zoobie’s Old Town Tavern,The Potent Potables Project hoped to bring the original 1940’s bar back to life. Zoobie’s ambiance is unlike any other in Old Town or Lansing. While cleaning out the abandoned building, Short and his partners found original hard wood floors and multiple decades’ worth of eclectic wallpapers.The front bar rail and the back bar are native to the building but have been refinished to keep the bar progressive for the modern Lansing crowd. Zoobie’s was intended as a “moonlighting gig” for Short and company, where businessmen could come and mix work and fun. However, Short has found that Zoobie’s represents the sense of the 18th century word “Public House,” as a true meeting place for the town. “Everyone can come in, whether it’s in a suit or work boots, and really feel comfortable here,” said Short. Like The Beer Grotto, patrons of Zoobie’s are able to come into the bar and take growlers of the specialty beers and wine to go. Short explains that this is an element of all of The Potent Potables’ ventures because of the expected level of customer service they have set for their restaurants. After Zoobie’s took off, there was a large demand for food at the bar.Thus,The Cosmos was born. “The Cosmos really represents the eight-year-old inside me, Al, and Aaron,” said Short. “We now had the money to make the ultimate sci-fi, video game, pizza restaurant of our fantasies become a reality.” The Cosmos features “out-of-this-world” specialty pizzas hand crafted by Chef Dan Konopnicki. Nearly all of the ingredients that go into the pizzas are homemade at The Cosmos.The restaurant showcases the theme with an intricate space mural on the back wall, 1940’s and 50’s sci-fi magazine covers on each table, as well as specialty lighting. It is connected to Zoobie’s through a back hallway that emphasizes and echoes the restaurant and bar’s key assets. In addition to the already booming ventures The Potent Potables Project has produced, they are working on a number of other projects. These include The Creole, a gourmet taqueria, and The Temple. The Creole, previously known as Old Town’s Creole Gallery, will feature Cajun cuisine and live music. Set for a mid-July opening, Short and his partners are hopeful The Creole will recreate the southern-Louisiana style and feel represented by the ornate building through blues, jazz, funk, soul and roots music in addition to great food and drinks. A new restaurant opening in Frandor will provide a spot for exceptional Mexican foods, tequilas and craft beer and wine. It is expected to open in early October of 2015. Different than their other projects,The Potent Potables will be re-opening The Temple in Old Town as an event space for parties, weddings, corporate events and other like events in the late spring or early summer of 2016. By taking old, historic buildings, revitalizing them and providing the ultimate dining experience,The Potent Potables Project is hopeful to make Lansing better from Old Town to the Cedar corridor to the Stadium District. “We really want to bring the soul back to Lansing through our restaurants,” said Short. “Our goal is to create a truly and uniquely Lansing dining scene.” www.gillespie-group.com OWNERS’ FAVORITES Aaron Matthews and Alan Hooper are two key players in the production of The Potent Potables Project. The two long-time friends originally bought an abandoned building in Old Town in hopes of creating a renewed restaurant, bar and event space. When Sam Short was referred to Aaron Matthews for his expertise in liquor licensing, Matthews introduced Short to Hooper. As a result of a shared appreciation for Old Town and common goals, the trifecta was formed. “It is fun to create new places and experiences and to see other people enjoy them as much as we do,” said Matthews. “It really ties into our goal of making the community a better place.” Matthews’ favorite pizza at The Cosmos is the Bosc Pear Pizza. Made with pancetta, topped with Old World blue cheese and arugula, this pizza pie is “one of the best meals of any sort and is as close to perfection as it can get,” says Matthews. Of the endless, delicious concoctions that Zoobie’s bartenders can create, Matthews’ favorite is The Balvenie, made from his favorite label of scotch. Hooper also emphasizes his appreciation for the community that has been built as a result of The Potent Potables’ endeavors. “The relationships and the friendships we’ve created with employees and patrons is my favorite part,” said Hooper. “You get to see and interact with the people in your neighborhood everyday.” Paired with Zoobie’s house cabernet, The Cosmos’ summer season Rock Shrimp Pizza is Hooper’s go-to. “It’s unexpected to have shrimp and a white sauce on a pizza,” said Hooper about the roasted garlic cream, spinach, oven dried tomato, and mozzarella masterpiece. “It’s different and delicious.” AARON MATTHEWS ALAN HOOPER
- 12. 12 JULY2015FOCUS Membership Services N etwork withMid-Michigan business professionals, sponsor and market business services, bond with colleagues, reward your staff, and enjoy the Michigan summer at this year’s Lansing Open, brought to you by the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. This premier golf tournament will take place at one of the most scenic golf courses in Michigan with details as follows: LANSING OPEN GOLF OUTING: EAGLE EYE GOLF COURSE TUESDAY, AUGUST 18 10 A.M., SHOTGUN START The annual Lansing Open is currently registering sponsors and participants. Pricing is $250/person ($295/nonmembers), or $800 for a foursome. The player package includes greens fee and cart, beverage tickets, lunch, dinner, and a gift for every player. Please visit www.lansingchamber.org for more information on how to reserve your spot! In addition, the Lansing Open presents a unique opportunity for businesses to market their services to members of the Mid-Michigan business community through the purchase of a variety of sponsorship packages. THE FOLLOWING SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES ARE STILL AVAILABLE: PREMIER PACKAGE - $2,500 (UNLIMITED) BEVERAGE CART PACKAGE - SPONSORED BY AT&T MULLIGAN PACKAGE - SPONSORED BY FARM BUREAU INSURANCE DINNER PACKAGE - $2,500 (EXCLUSIVE) DRIVING RANGE/PUTTING GREEN PACKAGE - $1,500 (EXCLUSIVE) LUNCH PACKAGE - $1,500 (EXCLUSIVE) PLAYER CART PACKAGE - SPONSORED BY MICHIGAN CREATIVE SHOWCASE PACKAGE - $1,000 (LIMITED) SPONSORED BY FIFTH THIRD BANK • INDEPENDENCE VILLAGE OF GRAND LEDGE • CAPITAL REGION INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT T-SHIRT PACKAGE - SPONSORED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY TEE SIGN PACKAGE - $200 (UNLIMITED) If you have any questions regarding registrations or sponsorships, please contact Travis Richardson at (517) 853-6463 or trichardson@lansingchamber.org. 2015 GRUB CRAWL DRAWS RAVE REVIEWS! FOCUS T he Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce partnered with Eastwood Towne Center to create a recipe for success at the 6th annual Grub Crawl, held Tuesday, June 9. Over 550 Chamber and community members attended, making the event another exceptional achievement. Many thanks to 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! Special thanks are in order for this year’s Grub Crawl sponsors. Without your support, the event would not have been such an outstanding success! ⫸ Presenting Sponsor: CASE Credit Union ⫸ Additional Sponsors: Eastwood Towne Center; Dean Transportation; Art Craft Display; Flavored Threads; Spartan Printing; Wal-Mart; Greater Lansing CVB; and Adams Outdoor Advertising ⫸ The Grub Crawl would not happen without the delicious food and thirst-quenching beverages provided by the participating restaurants that did a tremendous job of creating a terrific experience for everyone involved. ⫸ Bravo! Cucina Italiana ⫸ Chapbook Café (inside Schuler Books & Music) ⫸ Champps ⫸ Claddagh Irish Pub ⫸ Great Lakes Olive Oil Co. ⫸ Max & Erma’s ⫸ McAlister’s Deli ⫸ Mitchell’s Fish Market ⫸ Panchero’s Mexican Grill ⫸ P.F. Chang’s China Bistro ⫸ Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill ⫸ Tony Sacco’s Coal Oven Pizza Big THANKS to our one-man-band Paul O’Jibway who entertained the Crawlers with his wide range of musical talents in Center Court. Thanks for adding some great ambiance to the event! ENJOY GREAT GOLF AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES AT LANSING OPEN Grub Crawlers enjoy the food, fun and festivities at the 6th annual Grub Crawl held at Eastwood Towne Center
- 13. 13 JULY2015FOCUS As a Michigan-basedenergy provider for more than 128 years, we’re proud to support Michigan’s small businesses. • Our programs offer services and incentives to help small businesses reduce their energy use and lower their energy costs • Since 2009, we’ve helped Michigan business customers save over $440 million on their energy bills • Let our specialists review your operations, energy use and future needs so you can maximize your energy dollars B7053 Call us for more information at 800-805-0490, or visit ConsumersEnergy.com/businessmatters BIG THINKING FOR SMALL BUSINESS
- 14. 14 JULY2015FOCUS Chamber In ActionProtect your hard work with Your commitment makes our state a better place to live, work and play. That’s why we offer a variety of policies to protect all your hard work and investments. Let your trusted Farm Bureau Insurance agent recommend the best insurance for you and your business. To find your local agent visit FarmBureauInsurance.com. K elli Ellsworth-Etchison (from left, holding check), LAFCU vice president of community and business development, presents a check for $1,000 to Yvonne Caamal Canul, Lansing School District superintendent, Sandra Noecker, J.W. Sexton High School principal, and Peter Spadafore, Lansing School District board president, to benefit the J.W. Sexton High School band program. The $1,000 donation is part of LAFCU’s music sponsorship of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Dinner. Sexton Principal Noecker said the funds would likely be used for new equipment. The band played the school’s fight song at the event in acknowledgement of the donation. Also attending were (at left:) Tim Daman, Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, Patrick Spyke, LAFCU executive vice president, and Sexton band members. O ver 50 business professionals packed the Lansing Regional Chamber conference room on June 2 for the Business Education Series panel discussion, The Changing Landscape of Social Media. Members learned numerous tools and tricks for managing, maximizing and measuring their social media marketing strategy. Our rock star panel included Kate Snyder, (bottom right) APR, Principal Strategist and Owner of Piper & Gold Public Relations; Julie Holton, (bottom left) Director of Marketing for Fraser Trebilcock; Courtney Lane Maki, (top right) Founder of Glow Social Media; and Moderator Laurie Lonsdorf, (top left) Senior Business Consultant with the Small Business Development Center. The Chamber’s Business Education Series is sponsored by Fifth Third Bank and Fraser Trebilcock. Photo credit: Image Forte. C ongratulations to Rhea Van Atta, Owner, (holding scissors) and the Old Town General Store team as they celebrated their two-year anniversary on June 6! The celebration included a Lansing Regional Chamber ribbon cutting, delicious food samples from local vendors, wine tastings and more! Old Town General Store, located at 408 E. Grand River, Lansing, is a unique store with a mission to provide the warmth of a traditional general store with a progressive approach to foods and customer care and an emphasis on organic and sustainable products sourced from Michigan suppliers whenever possible.
- 15. 15 JULY2015FOCUS Members On TheMovePEOPLE NEWS Bruce R. Maters has joined the Okemos, Michigan law firm, Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC, specializing in public utility regulatory and energy law as well as environmental law. Tri-Star Trust Bank welcomes Kendra Engwis as receptionist at its Midland office location. Liza Moore, a shareholder of Foster Swift Collins and Smith, P.C., has been selected as the 2015 Golden Gavel Award recipient by the Michigan Defense Trial Counsel. Paul Schmidt and his company Uno Deuce Multimedia were recently selected as the Micro-Entrepreneur of the Year by the Entrepreneur Institute of Michigan at their Rise and Shine Breakfast on June 4. Champps Kitchen + Bar is pleased to announce the addition of Rachel Inglot as event coordinator. Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center’s Dr. Carrie Pilarski has been selected to receive an Achievement Award for Early Career Professionals from the American Psychological Association. AT&T Michigan announced the addition of Kris Young to the company’s external affairs team. St. Vincent Catholic Charities is proud to announce the appointment of John Karasinski as the new associate director of community relations & marketing. The University Club of MSU is pleased to announce the addition of Jennifer Dubey as the Club’s new wellness & recreation director. In this position, Jennifer will be responsible for the management and direction of the University Club’s Fitness Center, Spa, and Kidz Club, as well as all wellness and summer recreational programs. Tri-Star Trust Bank welcomes Ann Hall to its Saginaw office location. Hall joins the Tri-Star team as a relationship officer. The Central Michigan Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America recognized Piper & Gold Public Relations with six awards for excellence in public relations at the 2015 PACE Awards celebration. With the recent addition of Kayla Putz as account strategist to the Piper & Gold team, spring has been an exciting and rewarding time for the Lansing area public relations boutique! McLaren Greater Lansing announced that Brian Brown has been promoted to the role of vice president of marketing, planning and public relations. Wharton Center for Performing Arts is pleased to announce that Greg Weber has been hired as the Center’s new director of operations and administration. Weber replaces Diane Baribeau who is moving to Traverse City to become executive director of the City Opera House on behalf of Wharton Center. Amanda Pileggi, who is a member of Willingham & Coté, P.C. ‘s Litigation Group, will serve as president of the Women Lawyers Association, Mid- Michigan Chapter. Dr. Rawn Bosley, M.D. will be joining Doctor’s Approach Dermatology in the fall. Dr. Bosley will be a board certified dermatologist, and brings an expertise in general dermatology to the facilities existing complete skin care center. Cohl, Stoker & Toskey, P.C., a Lansing law firm specializing in public sector labor and municipal law, is pleased to announce that Gordon Love has joined the firm. Uno Deuce Multimedia has welcomed two new interns from Michigan State University: David Hartsig, a community management intern and Anthony Chiarra, a video production intern. Sandy Clark recently joined the Mason Area Chamber of Commerce as its new administrative assistant. Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center’s Linda Wells has been appointed to the position of clinical faculty in the Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders at Michigan State University. The Williamston Area Chamber of Commerce announces the selection of Benjamin Eichler as the 2015 Chamber Member of the Year. Eichler, owner of Whippletree Financial PC, has been a financial advisor since 2006. A graduate of Michigan State’s MBA program, he is a husband and father of two. Equanimity Wealth Management was recently awarded the inaugural 2015 Financial Times Top 401 Retirement Plan Advisors. This means the firm is among elite plan advisors at national, independent and regional broker- dealers, selected from roughly 650 plan advisors who met The Financial Times’ qualifications. On June 4, 2015, the Entrepreneur Institute of Mid-Michigan named attorney Joel C. Farrar of Foster Swift Collins & Smith, P.C. its “Volunteer of the Year”. Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood is pleased to welcome back Joe Vitale. He will be working out of their East Lansing office. Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood is also proud to announce the following sales associates who have Bruce R. Maters Rachel Inglot John Karasinski Jennifer Dubey Kayla Putz Brian Brown Amanda Pileggi Dr. Rawn Bosley Sandy Clark Benjamin Eichler Joe Vitale
- 16. 16 JULY2015FOCUS Members On TheMove joined their sales team: Monte Jackson, Delta office; Natan Espinosa, Okemos office; Ann Johnson, Okemos office; and Krista Holz, Delta office. COMPANY NEWS Kuntzsch Solutions, a consulting firm serving organizations in the state of Michigan, was recognized as one of the Michigan 50 Companies to Watch at the eleventh annual Michigan Celebrates Small Business event held on May 7, 2015 at the Lansing Center. The City of Lansing and LEAP announced another major development along the Michigan Avenue corridor in Lansing, directly across the roadway from the Red Cedar Renaissance. The SkyVue on Michigan development is a project proposed by Ambling University Development Group out of Atlanta, GA. Ambling plans to build a 667,000 square foot, 9-story, mixed use building featuring 359 residential units and a retail component as well as parking on the north end of the development, which backs up to the Frandor Shopping Center. Additional amenities for the project include indoor tennis, volleyball, and basketball courts. Rockford High School student Maddy Mathias and Divine Child High School student Aleksander Papanastasopoulos competed in and won the second annual Ovation Awards at East Lansing’s Wharton Center on Sunday May, 17 2015. They were two of 38 high school students across Michigan to compete for the award, which celebrates outstanding achievement and individual artistry in vocal, dance and acting performances for both male and female lead in musical theater production. The Retirement Advisor University is pleased to announce that Jane Hagen of Tri-Star Trust Bank is now credentialed as a Certified 401(k) Professional – and holds the C(k)P® Designation, which represents a distinguished achievement for the professional Retirement Plan Advisor. Rehmann Financial has been named to Forbes’ Top Wealth Managers 2015 list. MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU), in partnership with Visa Inc., will provide Michigan State University $250,000 in funding for the next eight years to underwrite the Financial Peer Education Program, which will be available to MSU students beginning in Fall 2015. MSUFCU will develop the financial education curriculum, which will include budgeting in college and after, understanding credit, and identity theft. In addition, peer educators will provide one-on-one sessions to assist students in establishing their budgets. MSUFCU, Visa, and MSU representatives as the donation is made, left to right: John Gaboury, associate provost for Academic Services, MSU; Rick Shipman, director of Financial Aid, MSU; Lucille Fallon, executive director, Corporate and Foundation Relations, MSU; April Clobes, president and CEO, MSUFCU; Mike Hudson, director, MSUFCU; June Pierce Youatt, provost, MSU; Jody Pearce, senior processing specialist, Visa; Ken Munzing, head of Central Region, US Financial Institutions Sales, Visa; Bob Groves, vice president for University Advancement, MSUFCU; Pat McPharlin, former president and CEO, MSUFCU; Angela Brown, vice chair, MSUFCU Board of Directors; Jeff Jackson, senior vice president, Business Lending and Operations, MSUFCU; Alyssa Nugent, account executive, US Financial Institutions Sales, Visa; and Denise Maybank, vice president for Student Affairs and Services, MSU. Accounting Today has named Yeo & Yeo the 97th largest accounting firm in the United States. Accounting Today ranks the largest accounting firms by net revenue for the previous fiscal year. Sparrow Health System recently partnered with Cristo Rey Community Clinic (CRCC) to provide an electronic medical record system, iSparrow Connect, serving as a catalyst for more collaboration between CRCC and Sparrow. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that the Lansing Regional Brownfield Coalition, led by LEAP on behalf of the City of Lansing and its regional partners, has received the maximum grant award of $500,000 through the 2015 EPA Brownfields Program. Of this award, $400,000 is to be used to investigate economic development sites for hazardous substances and $100,000 is to be used on petroleum-related activity. Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center announced plans for a major expansion of facilities and services to begin in June 2015. The $3.5 million expansion adds nearly 40% more residential capacity to Origami’s transitional and long-term care programs, as well as significantly larger clinical facilities highlighted by an advanced therapy gym, improved multi-purpose space, and upgraded office facilities. LAFCU donated $1,000 to the J.W. Sexton High School band program at a lively event held at the high school in Lansing. The $1,000 donation is part of LAFCU’s music sponsorship of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner. TOC Logistics (TOC), a minority owned global logistics company, announced a new service utilizing the Container Freight Station (CFS) at Port Lansing, located in Lansing, Michigan. TOC will be importing container freight from Europe on a bi-weekly basis with weekly service likely to begin within 6 months. The recently established CFS uses 12,000 square feet of the 48,000 multi- tenant warehouse and provides TOC Logistics International the resources to expand services. Natan Espinosa Ann Johnson Krista Holz Monte Jackson
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- 18. 18 JULY2015FOCUS Wharton Center hasbeen awarded a $100,000 grant from Disney to help bring the Disney Musicals in Schools program to mid- Michigan. The Center was one of only four art organizations in the nation and the only one in Michigan selected this year. Uno Deuce Multimedia is pleased to be working with two new clients in the region: East Lansing Solstice Jazz Festival and Day Starr Communications. The YMCA of Lansing received national exposure at a legislative briefing on Capitol Hill on June 2nd , to discuss the importance of summer nutrition programs for youth. Ricky Wright, executive director of the YMCA of Lansing’s Mystic Lake Camp, was selected by Y-USA to speak on behalf of Y’s nationwide about the vital role nutrition plays in fueling children’s physical and cognitive development while school is out of session. East Lansing consulting firm, Courtland Consulting®, has made a name for itself as the leading system delivery vendor for child support projects in the United States, which has led to the organization’s explosive growth in the last year. What started as a staff augmentation provider on a single child support project in Michigan has grown into a diverse organization providing system implementation services in more than eight states, with 150% growth projected for remainder of 2015. Associated Builders and Contractors - Greater Michigan Chapter is pleased to announce having raised a record $30,000 at the 2015 dinner/dance benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Michigan. Since the chapter began working with Make-A-Wish as part of its ABC Cares initiative, they have raised over $500,000 allowing wishes to be granted to more than 90 area children. LifeTech Academy announced that it has formed a new strategic partnership with the Information Technology and Empowerment Center (ITEC), a nonprofit organization that prepares Lansing-area children to participate in a global knowledge economy by increasing their technology skills. As a strategic partner, ITEC will bring the learning via the TechTransport and other programming, as a part of LifeTech’s real- world, hands-on, project-based learning. IDV Solutions LLC, the global leader in delivering Enterprise Risk Visualization capabilities, announced it has formed a technical partnership with Everbridge, the worldwide leader in unified critical communications. Through the partnership, Everbridge’s Mass Notification platform is now available as an integration into IDV Solutions’ Visual Command Center® Enterprise Risk Visualization software. Center for Business Innovation, a Michigan technology service provider, expands their imaging services via their new partnership with Konica Minolta Business Solutions, U.S.A., Inc. Konica Minolta is a leader in information management focused on enterprise content, technology optimization and cloud services. Moonsail North, an Okemos-based startup that focuses on storytelling and strategy to help organizations communicate and grow, welcomes Asian Americans for Community Involvement as a client. Members On The Move Courtland Consulting plans to celebrate its 25th year anniversary with the communities and projects it serves through an interactive website at www.courtland25.com. Past and current clients, employees and partners are encouraged to interact with Courtland through this website and social media channels to share memories about Courtland and its many partner projects.
- 19. 19 JULY2015FOCUS Sparrow has theregion’s largest primary care network More than 500 primary care doctors and specialists partner with Sparrow as part of the Sparrow Care Network. They choose us because they share the same philosophy of delivering exceptional care. If you don’t have a Sparrow primary care physician, you should. Make the switch: 1.800.Sparrow When you call, mention the code: Doctor Choose Wisely. Choose Sparrow. Sparrow.org/Doctors Sparrow has the region’s largest primary care network More than 500 primary care doctors and specialists partner with Sparrow as part of the Sparrow Care Network. They choose us because they share the same philosophy of delivering exceptional care. If you don’t have a Sparrow primary care physician, you should. Make the switch: 1.800.Sparrow When you call, mention the code: Doctor Choose Wisely. Choose Sparrow. Sparrow.org/Doctors
- 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 Change Service Requested Mercantile Bank. Here to get you there.® mercbank.com/business You want a bank that can help your business get to the next level. Whether you’re eying a new space, new equipment, or you’re ready to ramp up your operation, our team can help you secure the funding you need. The bottom line? If your business is on the move, we’ll help you get there. Here to make it happen.