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“Managed properly, social

media can deliver powerful


results. But, organizations
need to carefully think
through their strategy
june2011 before diving in full force.”

Gaining an Edge
With Social Media
The advent of social media has businesses of all sizes and Facebook is the bar for social networking.”
grappling to try and understand and take full advantage Hill speaks throughout the country educating
of the power this new media has. For Lansing-based organizations on how to more effectively utilize the power
marketing firm Edge Partnerships, the social media of social media. He emphasizes a four-step approach to
phenomenon has created opportunities to help clients developing social media as a business tool:
across the country adjust their marketing strategies. 1. Learn to Listen – Linked In, Facebook and Twitter
“We realized in this day and age, social media all have advanced search capabilities that allow you
is critical not only to our success, but to our clients’ to figure out what people are saying about your
success,” said Edge President and CEO Lorri Rishar organization;
Jandron. “Clients were approaching us about how they 2. Research – Start putting numbers behind the
want to be part of the social media world.” medium. Look at companies you do business with
The importance of social media in their clients’ and the profiles of their executives. See what your
marketing programs has grown so much that Edge customers are doing and how they communicate;
Partnerships has a full-time staff person dedicated to 3. Engage – Get your brand into the social media
social media management. Edge employs sophisticated universe and get it to work for you. “People who
tools to manage client’s Facebook, Twitter and Linked In connect to your brand are your organization’s best
pages. ambassadors,” said Hill;
Several Edge clients have enjoyed successful ventures 4. Enable your ambassadors to sell your service. John Hill of the MSU Alumni Association travels the
into social media. The Edge team convinced the University Hand off the messaging to them. For example, country helping MSU alums and other executives under-
of Northern Iowa to reallocate 50 percent of its traditional Hill says a number of companies will distribute a stand how to best leverage social media platforms.
media advertising budget into social media. The result— news release to their employees prior to sending
within four months the University experienced a 20 it to the media. That allows employees to spread Cover photo- Edge Partnerships is helping clients across
percent increase in inquiries and a 17 percent increase a consistent message using their own individual the country expand their social media presence. (l-r)
in admissions. communications platforms. Angela Witwer, Danielle Lenz and Lorri Rishar Jan-
Many companies are finding that social media offers dron.
more flexibility for interactivity and instant feedback from Job seekers are also becoming exposed to social
their customers. As a result, some companies now prefer media tools to help them identify job leads. Capital Area
to drive consumers to their Facebook page instead of their Michigan Works! (CAMW) has been aggressive in tapping what can be listed in a resume.
more static website. into Twitter, Facebook and YouTube to help connect job “Your personal brand is becoming your employment
How does a company seeking to develop a social seekers with employers. currency,” says Hill.
media presence know where to start? “Social media is really about building relationships,” Managed properly, social media can deliver powerful
“Take one thing at a time and do it well,” said Angela said Kate Tykocki, CAMW’s chief communications officer. results. But, organizations need to carefully think through
Witwer, Edge executive vice president & COO. “Whether that helps a person connect with a job, whether their strategy before diving in full force.
It’s important for anyone considering a social media it helps someone standout from the crowd, whether it “If you don’t have time to invest in it, don’t do it,”
presence to understand the various media platforms and helps a business recruit a new employee or whether said Danielle Lenz, public relations and social media
how they best fit your organization. it broadens a business’s reach and helps it develop specialist for Edge.
“Linked In is the corporate office. It’s where business meaningful relationships with its customers, it all boils For a growing number of organizations, social media
takes place among 400,000 corporate executives,” said down to people connecting with people.” is no longer a novelty, but rather an integral component of
John Hill, director of Alumni Career Services for the Hill, who thinks resumes will become obsolete in the their marketing program.
Michigan State University Alumni Association. “Twitter is next five years, says Linked In allows job-seekers to tell a “It’s here,” said Jandron. “Social media has become
the water cooler where office conversations take place, more complete story about themselves that goes beyond a very important part of every day business.”
2010
June Focus 2011

A Message from the President


Marketing in the New Media World
It wasn’t that long ago that media communications were funneled through the daily newspaper, a
August

handful of television stations and broadcast radio. Though the influence of those “mainstream” media
remains important today, the proliferation of cable and satellite program offerings and the power of
the Internet, which launched the social media revolution, have changed the way in which we send and
receive information forever.

Consumers have more choices in an increasing fragmented information world, which can make reaching
those consumers with your marketing message a challenge. The interactive nature of social media
Tim Daman platforms also means a business can have more immediate access to and feedback from its customers.
President and CEO
Lansing Regional
The complexities of the rapidly evolving new media world have generated a great deal of interest among
Chamber of Commerce executives throughout business. The Chamber has sought to assist our members in developing an
effective social media presence through our business education series, including a presentation last year
by John Hill, a renowned social media expert from Michigan State University. The growing importance
The new media world
of social media in the business community is also why we chose to dedicate this month’s cover story in
represents a different way
FOCUS to that topic.
of thinking and doing
business. Like any new In the past couple of years, the Lansing Regional Chamber has enhanced our own marketing strategy
business trend, the secret is to and developed a much stronger presence in this platform. Under the leadership of our marketing and
understand and embrace it, communications manager, Aubrey Zimmerman, the Chamber communicates aggressively through our
and ultimately to develop and Facebook, Twitter and Linked In pages. We are also very proud of our new website, www.lansingchamber.
manage an effective strategy org, which features much richer and deeper content delivered in a multi-media format.
to leverage the power of new
media in ways that helps your The new media world represents a different way of thinking and doing business. Like any new business
business succeed. trend, the secret is to understand and embrace it, and ultimately to develop and manage an effective
strategy to leverage the power of new media in ways that helps your business succeed.

2
C a l e n d a r

June Focus 2011


The Chamber’s address is 500 East Michigan Avenue, Suite 200, Lansing, MI 48912.

J u ne July
Wednesday, June 1 Tuesday, July 12
Delta Government Relations Committee, Member Mixer, 5 - 7 p.m., Rizzi Designs, 1141 N.
8 – 9 a.m. Lexington Lansing Hotel, 925 S. Creyts Rd., Pine St., Lansing, MI 48906. $10 member, $30 non-
Lansing, MI 48917. The Delta Government Relations member. Includes hors d’oeuvres.
Committee meets the first Wednesday of each month
Government Relations Committees are in recess
to provide a forum for business leaders to discuss
July and August; meetings will resume in Sep-
important issues affecting Delta Township. To ensure tember.
adequate seating, please RSVP to Jason Green at
jgreen@lansingchamber.org.

Thursday, June 2
Chamber 360, 8 – 9:30 a.m., Lansing Regional
Chamber
Chamber of Commerce Insurance Capital Board
Room, 500 E. Michigan Ave., Ste. 200, Lansing, MI
48912. New, veteran and prospective members are
Milestones
encouraged to attend Chamber 360 to learn about We’d like to offer a special salute
the full range of Chamber benefits and how to
maximize your investment. Meet our staff and find
to these great organizations that
out how we are working for you through business reached milestone anniversaries
growth and advocacy initiatives, exclusive member as Chamber members this month.
benefit programs, member exposure, networking Wednesday, June 15 Thank you for your continued sup-
and educational event opportunities. This is a FREE East Lansing / Meridian Government port through the years!
event, but space is limited. To register for this event Relations Committee, 8 – 9 a.m. Walnut Hills
please visit www.lansingchamber.org. Country Club, 2874 Lake Lansing Rd., East Lansing,
MI 48823. The East Lansing / Meridian Government WLNS-TV 6........................................35 years
Wednesday, June 15 Relations Committee meets the third Wednesday of Traverse City Leasing, Inc..................35 years
Grub Crawl, 5 - 8 p.m., Eastwood Towne Center, each month to provide a forum for business leaders The Peanut Shop...............................35 years
3003 Preyde Blvd., Lansing, MI 48912. Enjoy food to discuss important issues affecting East Lansing/
samplings from select restaurants located in Eastwood Foster, Swift, Collins &
Meridian Township. To ensure adequate seating, Smith, P.C...................................35 years
Towne Centre. Participating restaurants include: Bra- please RSVP to Jason Green at jgreen@lansingcham-
vo! Cucina Italiana, Chapbook Cafe, Inside Schuler ber.org. Option 1 Credit Union.......................25 years
Books & Music, Chester’s Nuts, Claddagh Irish Pub, Radisson Hotel Lansing.....................25 years
Johnny Rockets, Maggie Moo’s Ice Cream and Treat-
Health Management
ery, McAlister’s Deli, Max & Erma’s, Mitchell’s Fish
Associates, Inc............................20 years
Market, P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Panchero’s Mexi-
can Grill. Tickets: Pre-sale: $20 per person, $35 per Not a member and Tire Factory, Inc. ............................... 5 years
couple; Night of: $25 person; $40 per couple. For Cardiovascular Specialists, P.C............ 5 years
more information on sponsorship call Sarah Lackey
interested in
Liquid Web, Inc.................................. 5 years
at 853-6457 and to purchase tickets visit www.lan- becoming one? The Moulton Team ............................ 5 years
singchamber.org.
Please contact the WorkSquared..................................... 5 years
Lansing Regional The Back Room.................................. 5 years
Event Cost is complimentary Stephenson Tree Surgeon & Co........... 5 years
for these enhanced membership Chamber of Commerce
The Sterling Group –
levels: at 517-487-6340 or 2900 Place Apartments................ 5 years
Bronze Gold visit our website Clara’s Restaurant, Inc........................ 5 years
Compuware Corporation.................... 5 years
Silver Platinum www.lansingchamber.org

3
Lansing Regional
2010
June Focus 2011

Chamber of Commerce
2011 Board of
Directors

Officers
August

CHAIR OF THE BOARD


Ron Simon Auto-Owners Insurance Company
PAST CHAIR
Vic Verchereau Farm Bureau Insurance Company
CHAIR ELECT
AdviCoach Enerco Corporation Resch Strategies Nancy McKeague Michigan Hospital Association
Business Consultants Water Treatment Equipment Public Relations LEGAL COUNSEL
Mr. Thomas G. Hamp, Business Coach Mrs. Ruth Cheney, Benefits Administrator Mr. Matthew Resch, President Jeff Hicks Hicks & Mullett, PLLC
11683 Hidden Spring Trail 317 N. Bridge St. 216 North Chestnut Street TREASURER
DeWitt, MI 48820 Grand Ledge, MI 48837 Lansing, MI 48933 Michelle Gallagher Gallagher & Associates
Phone: (517) 668-1050 Phone: (517) 627-8444 Phone: (517) 371-7843 PRESIDENT
Fax: (517) 668-1098 Fax: (517) 627-8037 www.reschstrategies.com Tim Daman Lansing Regional Chamber
www.advicoach.com/thamp www.enercocorp.com
Sun Country Airlines DIVISION DIRECTORS
Avani Design K-Bar Properties Airline Companies Int’l Business Services
Graphic Designers Real Estate Investment Ms. Kelsey Dodson-Smith, Jason Sanders Fifth Third Bank
Ms. Smita Sawai, Owner Mr. Stephen Barnard, Manager Marketing Coordinator Government Relations
3947 Hemmingway Dr. 6229 McCue Rd. 1300 Mendota Heights Dr. Kevin McKinney McKinney & Associates
Okemos, MI 48864 Holt, MI 48842 Mendota Heights, MN 55120 MARKETING & COMMUNICATION
Phone: (517) 303-9566 Phone: (517) 669-1390 Phone: (651) 681-3955 Paula Cunningham Capitol National Bank
www.avani-design.com www.kbarproperties.com www.suncountry.com MEMBERSHIP SERVICES
Steven Hess Accident Fund Insurance Company of America
Avid Payment Solutions Knight Consulting, Inc Tavern On The Square
Credit Card Processing Governmental Consultants Restaurants AT-LARGE
Mr. Joe Hyjek Mr. M.L. “Mickey” Knight, President Mr. Jason Keusch Melanie Bergeron Two Men & A Truck International
950 S. Old Woodward Ave., Ste. 220 115 W. Allegan St., Ste. 200 120N. Washington Sq. Lon Bohannon Neogen Corporation
Birmingham, MI, 48009 Lansing, MI 48933 Lansing, MI 48933 John Brown Jackson National Life Insurance Company
Phone: (888) 855-8644 Ext:129 Phone: (517) 484-6917 Phone: (517) 374-5555 Denyse Ferguson LEAP
Fax: (866) 671-9773 Fax: (517) 484-7037 Patrick Dean Dean Transportation
www.avidpays.com The Bluffs at Lakes of Joe Ford Netvantage Marketing
Mercy Ambulance Service, Inc. Milford Association Pat Gillespie Gillespie Group
Edmund’s Restaurants Ambulance Service Associations Mark Kellogg Fraser Trebilcock
Mr. Jason Keusch Mr. Dennis Palmer, President Mrs. Lorianne Hearn, Bill Kimble C2AE
101 S. Washington Sq. 1422 E. Michigan Ave. Client Communications Manager J. Peter Lark Lansing Board of Water and Light
Lansing, MI 48933 Lansing, MI 48912 143 Cady Centre #205 Deborah Muchmore Marketing Resource Group
(517) 371-8700 Phone: (517) 482-1983 Northville, MI 48167 David Mulder Meijer
Fax: (517) 482-6204 Phone: (248) 767-9375 Brian Priester LSJ Media
Fax: (248) 374-9375 Timothy Salisbury PNC Bank
Jean G. Schtokal Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith
Pro | Cycle
Heather Shawa-DeCook Demmer Corporation
Motorcycles
Dennis Swan Sparrow Health Systems
Mrs. Debbie Green, President
Ryan Vartoogian Spartan Internet
944 Emmett St. E
Steve Webster Michigan State University
Battle Creek, MI 49014
Phone: (269) 441-7761
FOCUS
Editor
Ross Woodstock
Printing
Spartan Printing
Mailing
Hot Prospects Direct
Cover Photo
Courtesy of Trumpie Photography
Please remember to use the member login portion of the Chamber website to
keep your contact information up-to-date. This will ensure that you receive all Advertisers
Chamber communications in a timely manner. Contact us at 517.487.6340 if you

Capitol National Bank..............................................2
LSJ Media..............................................................10
have any questions or are not receiving our communications. Blue Cross Blue Shield .........................................12

4
June Focus 2011
Greater Lansing Progress Joining Making a
Together for a Stronger Region Business Case
When it comes to moving our community in the talk, work, advocate build momentum and drive move-
right direction, we all come with different ideas and
perspectives about what progress looks like. For some,
progress is about economic growth. For others, prog-
ment toward a better region,” said Kristin Beltzer, LRCC
senior vice president of Government Relations & Public
Affairs.
for Workplace
ress means safe neighborhoods, good government or
quality of life.
Greater Lansing Progress has established a web-
site and a strong social media presence in order to Diversity
The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce engage community members in an ongoing, interac-
(LRCC) is proud to join in Greater Lansing Progress, tive conversation about steps we need to take to build
a broad-based coalition of organizations that want to a stronger community. You are encouraged to visit
unite the community behind a single vision of prog- www.greaterlansingprogress.com and join the conver-
ress. sation. Watch for more details about Greater Lansing
“Greater Lansing Progress is designed to be an Progress in the coming weeks, including the July issue
inclusive organization in which business and com- of FOCUS magazine.
munity leaders, along with residents, join together, to
The business case for managing
human differences in the 21st cen-
Chamber Weighs in on Lansing tury economy will be the focus of
the 2011 Employer Conference on

City Council Budget Debate Workplace Diversity, hosted by the


Lansing Regional Chamber of Com-
merce and Public Policy Associates,
The voice of the In the letter, LRCC also stated its opposition to a Inc. The conference is scheduled
business community last minute suggestion by some council members that from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on
was heard during the the city annex Capital Region International Airport,
Thursday, August 25 at the Lansing
heat of Lansing City labeling the notion “a step backward for our region’s
Council’s debate over economic development efforts, especially in light of Center in downtown Lansing.
the city’s 2011-2012 progress being made with the proposed 425 agreement The keynote presentation at
budget. In a letter between the city and Dewitt Township.” the conference will be delivered by
to the City Council, The annexation idea was among a flurry of last Dr. Steven Robbins of S.L. Robbins
Lansing Regional Cham- minute maneuvers by several council members that and Associates. J. Peter Lark, gen-
ber of Commerce (LRCC) included submitting hundreds of questions to city
President & CEO Tim Daman staffers in the final hours of the budget debate. The
eral manager of the Lansing Board
urged City Council to view the budget deliberations as Chamber said it was “deeply troubled” by the budget of Water and Light, is scheduled to
an “opportunity to reform city government in ways that process, stating in the letter: deliver the lunch/keynote address.
deliver more efficient and effective services to business- “Instead of thoughtful deliberations that should To register ($55) for the 2011
es and taxpayers.” have been taking place over the past couple of months, Employer Conference on Workplace
The LRCC letter was sent days before City Council there has been a flurry of activity by several council
adopted a $99.5 million budget that calls for 102 city members that is once again creating an appearance of
Diversity and for more information,
workers to be laid off, closing three fire stations, elimi- dysfunctional government, which is not only harmful to visit www.lansingdiversity.org.
nating road funding as well as possible privatization of the budget discussions, but also further contributes to
municipal golf courses and cemeteries. a negative image of our region.”
5
June Focus 2011

Breaking International Trade Crossing


Language Barriers Essential to Expanding Michigan-
for International Canada Trade Relations
Trade Right: Canadian
Consul General Roy
Norton speaks with
One of the more Global Business Club
difficult challenges for attendees following his
organizations conduct- presentation.
ing business in the
international arena
is managing commu-
nications in multiple
languages. A locally-
Below: Lt. Governor
owned company has
Brian Calley before the
stepped up to help companies meet the lan-
Global Business Club.
guage demands of the global marketplace. “Michigan currently
Lansing-based 7C Lingo provides full- has the most expensive
service translation and interpretation in the border crossing between
world’s most-spoken languages. 7C Lingo the United States and
has an international network of translators Canada.”
that understand the unique translation needs
of specialized professions including legal, Trade Crossing, connecting Detroit and Windsor, must
finance, medical education, government and be built. That was the message delivered at a recent
marketing. Global Business Club forum by Canadian Consul Gener-
“Market terminology is very different in al Roy Norton and Michigan Lt. Governor Brian Calley.
the legal profession versus medical and mar- “The new bridge will ensure that Michigan and
keting,” said 7C Lingo President Fathy Shetiah. Lansing will remain attractive for job creation and
“Every field requires a unique approach.” investment to Canada,” said Consul General Norton.
There are many companies that offer Lt. Gov. Calley told the audience that the current
translation services, but 7C Lingo is the only Ambassador Bridge is not capable of handling the
local agency, owned and operated in Lansing. expected increase in traffic between Michigan and Can-
Shetiah encourages firms in need of transla- ada.
tion services to understand the importance of “Michigan currently has the most expensive bor-
the quality of the service. der crossing between the U.S. and Canada,” said Lt.
“Every one knows someone who speaks Gov. Calley. “The single bridge system creates a barrier
the language, but can they accurately translate When it comes to importing and exporting, to exporting and is placing a stranglehold on interna-
the language?” asked Shetiah. “Translation Michigan and Canada can be considered best friends; tional trade.”
mistakes can be very costly.” Michigan exporters claim Canada as their number one The Lt. Governor told the crowd that he expects
Firms interested in more information trading partner. From the Canadian perspective, Michi- legislation allowing for the NITC to be constructed will
about 7C Lingo and their services can visit gan imports more from Canada than any other country be introduced after state budget and tax reform issues
www.7clingo.com or www.portlansing.com. in the world. If Michigan and Canada are to expand are resolved in June. The Lansing Regional Chamber of
their relationship, the proposed New International Commerce has publically endorsed the NITC.

6
June Focus 2011
Get Ready to Tee It Up at the Pledge to
Lansing Open Keep Learning
Mark your calendars (or record it in your a day on the course, or entertain important clients or
smart phone), for one of the summer’s most out- potential customers.
standing golf events. The 2011 Lansing Open is Register today for the Lansing Open at www.lan- Keep Learning…Our Future Depends on It!
set for Tuesday, August 16 at Eagle Eye Golf Club. singchamber.org. Individual members can play for an is a coalition of businesses, government, media
Following a shotgun start at 10 a.m., a full day of early bird rate of $175, foursomes are $700 until June and educators that recognize the need to put a
fun, including games on the course, lunch, din- 17. Non-members and those that register after the early high value on education in our community –
ner, awards and prizes is planned. bird deadline are welcome to play for $195, foursomes and our state – if we are going to succeed.
The Lansing Open is more than just another are $750. Organizations interested in sponsoring the Keep Learning was founded after the
golf outing. It is a terrific opportunity to enjoy a Lansing Open should contact Sarah Lackey at 517-853- release of some startling statistics that jeopar-
relaxing day of golf and take advantage of impor- 6457 or slackey@lansingchamber.org. dize the future of Mid-Michigan; just 50 percent
tant networking opportunities. Treat your staff to of Michigan parents agree that everyone should
have a college education and only 27 percent
said education was essential for success.
Michigan ranks 34th nationally in adults
with a bachelor’s degree or higher – 22 percent.
Comparatively, Mid-Michigan sits at 29 percent,
but falls short when compared to other thriving,
vibrant cities like Madison, Wis. (41 percent);
Austin, Texas (40 percent); and Ann Arbor (48
percent).

Video Blogs on Chamber Website Mid-Michigan is home to a world-class


research institution in Michigan State University,
Cooley Law School (the largest in the country),
One of the most exciting new features on the Lansing Community College and the state capi-
Chamber’s new website, www.lansingchamber.org, tol. We have everything we need to compete, but
is the use of video interviews with newsmakers, we are falling short in the new knowledge-based
speakers and Chamber members. Our team is economy.
working hard to post as much quality content as Join the effort by pledging your businesses’
possible in order to keep the website informa- support and signing the Keep Learning Busi-
tive, interesting and up-to-date. Recently, our ness Pledge. By taking the pledge, you can join
marketing and communications manager, Aubrey other area businesses in taking no-cost steps to
Zimmerman, and intern, Lexie Kimball, visited support education. It’s quick, it’s easy and it’s
VisionCare Associates in East Lansing to learn important.
more about the services VisionCare offers. You For more information or to take the pledge,
can watch this featured interview online today! If visit www.LearnforOurFuture.org today.
Canadian Consul General Roy Norton was you have an idea for a video feature, please con-
interviewed prior to his speech before the tact Aubrey at 517-853-6456, or azimmerman@
Global Business Club. lansingchamber.org.

7
June Focus 2011

Send your news to Aubrey Zimmerman at


azimmerman@lansingchamber.org
PEOPLE NEWS

Doctor’s Approach Derma-


tology is proud to announce
and welcome Courtney Mich,
PA-C and to the staff.

Karl L. Gotting Kenneth W. Beall Charles Rice, M.D. Matthew Yeomans, M.D.
The Public Relations Society Loomis, Ewert, Parsley, Lansing Ophthalmology’s
of America’s Central Michigan Davis & Gotting, P.C., is Board of Directors has elected
Chapter recently named Lorri pleased to announce Karl L. the 2011 Executive Committee;
Jandron of Edge Partner- Gotting (Real Estate law), Charles Rice, M.D. will serve
ships its 2011 PACE Maker of Kenneth W. Beall (Real as secretary and Matthew
the year for her distinguished Estate law) and Catherine A. Yeomans, M.D. will serve as
career in public relations. Jacobs (Estate Planning and treasurer. Thomas Moore,
Probate law) recently received M.D. will continue his two
the prestigious peer reviewed year term as president of the
Catherine A. Jacobs designation, 2011 Super Law- Thomas Moore, M.D. practice.
Lansing Christian School yer, by Super Lawyers magazine.
has added Patti Jacobson C2AE, a full-service archi-
to the main office as its new Byron P. Gallagher, Jr., an attorney with the Gallagh- tectural, engineering, and
admissions director. er Law Firm, was re-appointed Ingham County Public planning design firm is pleased
Administrator by Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette to announce the recent hire of
and Michigan State Public Administrator Rebecca Mason Tobi Lyon, CAE, CFRE.
Visconti.

Clark Construction CEO


Charles Clark announces the
Ingham Regional Medical Center recently named hiring of Tom Mata as project
Floyd Chasse vice president of human resources. superintendent. The Lansing office of TWO
MEN AND A TRUCK® has
The Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors added Bill Donahue to its
Bureau (GLCVB) is pleased to announce it has hired office team as a move consul-
Maria Wygnal as marketing communications coordi- tant.
nator, Karen Sanders as administrative assistant, Polly
Brickey as executive assistant and promoted current staff-
er Kristina Kauffman to the position of visitor services James M. Cash, president and chief operating officer
coordinator. of Christman Capital Development Company, was
recently appointed by Governor Rick Snyder to the Michi-
Janine Peters, assistant professor of mathematics gan Construction Code Commission. Fraser Trebilcock is pleased to announce that Melisa
and computer science at Olivet College, received the Werkema Mysliwiec has joined the firm as an associate
Livingston Professorship award at the 2011 Honors Con- Big Brothers Big Sisters Michigan Capital Region attorney in its’ Grand Rapids and Lansing offices.
vocation. is pleased to announce the recent hire of Dr. Phillip
Knight as the agency’s executive director.

8
Doctor’s Approach Medspa William Guerre of W.D. Guerre & Associates achieved

June Focus 2011


& Laser Center is excited to membership in the prestigious Million Dollar Round Table
welcome Jenna Patterson to - The Premier Association of Financial Professionals.
the staff. Guerre is a 13-year MDRT member.

Origami Brain Injury Rehab Center congratulates


Danielle Pyle, Debra Givens, Jessica Weber, Manny
Karakitsos, Nancy Wirick, Dr. Carrie Pilarski, Tracy
Spence, and Kara Manning who have become certified
The Williamston Area Chamber of Commerce held
as a Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS) through the American
a ribbon cutting ceremony for Kozy At Home Petsitting,
Foster Swift Collins & Smith, Academy of Brain Injury Specialists. In addition, Origami’s
a licensed veterinary technician that does professional
P.C. is pleased to announce the two speech-language pathologists, Danielle Pyle and
petsitting in your home.
addition of attorney Archana Linda Wells, have become Registered National Outcomes
Rajendra. She is a member of Measurement Systems (NOMS) Users.
Liquid Web, Inc. recently enhanced its reputation as
the firm’s Workers’ Compensa-
an innovator in web hosting services by adding a Content
tion Practice Group. William Megan, executive vice president-Finance and
Delivery Network (CDN) to its already diverse palette of
chief financial officer for TDS Telecommunications
hosting options.
Corp. has been named to lead TDS’ fast growing Hosted
and Managed Services (HMS) operation; Vicki Villacrez,
The Greater Lansing
who currently serves as assistant treasurer for Telephone
Convention and Visitors
and Data Systems, Inc. will become TDS Telecommuni-
Bureau received two awards
cations Corp.’s vice president-Finance and CFO, on an
from the Public Relations
interim basis.
Society of America – Cen-
tral Michigan Chapter PACE
COMPANY NEWS Awards: a Pinnacle Award in
the category of Tactics- Elec-
Publicom Inc., a full-service marketing communica-
tronic Media for the Greater
tions firm, has won four awards in the 25th Annual PACE
Lansing Mobile App; and an Excellence in the category of
Awards competition.
Todd Burnett Sue Kohler Special Events for Over the Edge.
Two Clark Construction employees have been rec- Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood has been named
Edge Partnerships recently earned three Gold Aster
ognized with the company’s highest honors for safety to the prestigious Coldwell Banker® Chairmans’s Circle;
Awards for healthcare marketing and advertising.
and service: Todd Burnett was named recipient of the an exclusive honor it has been awarded for 10 consecu-
Charles J. Clark Safety Award, which is presented to tive years.
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow announced that Lan-
the Clark employee who demonstrates exceptional dedica-
sing-based Niowave, a cutting-edge producer of
tion and commitment to safety in the construction industry; The Central Michigan Chapter of the Public Relations Soci-
superconducting particle accelerators, was awarded the
and Sue Kohler was named recipient of the John M. ety of America (CMPRSA) presented Edge Partnerships
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Small Busi-
Clark Service Award, which is presented to the Clark with two Excellence Awards and two Achievement Awards
ness of the Year Award by the U.S. Department of Energy
employee who demonstrates an exceptional work ethic, during the 2011 PACE Awards ceremony.
(DOE).
service and dedication on behalf of the company and its
customers. Motion Marketing & Media (M3) took home two PACE
Clark Construction has been selected as Construction
Awards of Achievement by the Public Relations Society of
Manager for the Greenville Public Schools & St. Johns
Kent Housler has been promoted to president of Per- America – Central Michigan chapter (CMPRSA).
Public Schools renovations.
sonnel World.
Hobbs+Black Associates, Inc. received a “Best of
Michigan Business” award from Corp! Magazine.

Auto-Owners Makes Fortune 500


List for Ninth Straight Year
Auto-Owners Insurance Company is ranked With $5.395 billion in revenue for 2010,
number 425 on the annual Fortune 500 list of Auto-Owners remained the second largest prop-
America’s largest corporations. This is the ninth erty and casualty mutual insurance company in the
straight year Auto-Owners has appeared in the United States.
Fortune 500 list. The company is also ranked The LRCC congratulates Auto-Owners on
among the 20 largest Michigan-based companies. Auto-Owners CEO Jeff Harrold. “Being ranked among their great success in 2010 and looks forward to
“Making the Fortune 500 list is a signifi- the biggest and best-run companies in America is an continuing a strategic partnership throughout the
cant honor for all Auto-Owners associates,” said important distinction in which we take pride.” remainder of 2011.

9
June Focus 2011

7-Eleven #104, Since 2009 Kincaid Henry Building Group, Inc., Since 2007
A-1 Mechanical Michigan, LLC, Since 2005 LEAP, Inc. (Lansing Economic Area Partnership),
Advanced Management, Inc., Since 2007 Since 2007
Alliance Obstetrics & Gynecology, Since 2010 Liquid Web, Inc., Since 2006
Applied Imaging, Since 2005 Manpower, Since 1963
Art Craft Display, Inc., Since 1963 Meridian Entertainment Group, Since 1994
ASAP Printing, Since 1994 Mitchell’s Fish Market - Cameron Mitchell
Restaurants, Since 2003
Big Brothers Big Sisters, Since 1992
Peanut Shop, (The), Since 1976
Big John Steak & Onion, Since 2007
Prosthetic Center, Inc., Since 1990
BMC-Business Machines Company, Since 1996
Radisson Hotel Lansing, Since 1986
Brogan, Reed, Van Gorder & Associates/
Ohio National Financial, Since 1990 Rum Runners Dueling Piano Bar & Dance Club,
Since 2002
Cardiovascular Specialists, P.C., Since 2006
SES Environmental, Since 2009
Clara’s Restaurant, Inc., Since 2006
Spartan Electric Services, Since 2008
Compuware Corporation, Since 2006
Stephenson Tree Surgeon & Co., Since 2006
Darling Builder’s Supply Co., Since 1954
Sweetie-licious Bakery Cafe’, Since 2009
Dawson Tree Care Inc., Since 2008
The Back Room, Since 2006
Delta Flowers, Since 2010
The Markerboard People Inc., Since 2004
Executive Committee, (The), Since 2009
The Moulton Team, Since 2006
Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes, PLC, Since 2008
The Robert Fell Company, Since 2009
FedEx Ground, Since 2008
The Sterling Group - 2900 Place Apartments,
Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith, P.C., Since 1976 Since 2006
Fowlerville Ford, Inc., Since 2007 Tico Duckett Distributing, Since 1999
Gillespie Company, LLC, Since 2009 Tire Factory Inc., Since 2006
Greater Lansing Business Monthly (The), Traverse City Leasing, Inc., Since 1976
Since 1987
Tri-County Regional Planning Commission,
GTECH Corporation, Since 1988 Since 1980
Haslett Public Schools, Since 2009 Trinity African Methodist Episcopal Church,
Health Management Associates, Inc., Since 1991 Since 1992
Impression 5 Science Center, Since 2005 Troppo, Since 2008
Ingham Regional Assisted Living, Since 2004 Wal-Mart Super Center, Since 2004
Interstate Batteries, Since 2004 Walnut Hills Country Club, Since 1994
James W. Butler, III, Since 2008 Web Ascender, Since 2007
Jersey Giant Subs, Since 2010 Wharton Center for Performing Arts, Since 1987
Jersey Giant Subs!, Since 2010 Williams Auto World, Since 1958
Kent Record Management, Inc., Since 1999 WLNS TV 6, Since 1976
KI Technology Group, Since 2002 WorkSquared, Since 2006

10
June Focus 2011
Chamber Team Supports
National Women Build Week
An impressive team of Chamber staff members and ded-
icated volunteers participated recently in National Women
Build Week, an initiative of Habitat for Humanity’s Women
Build program. Women volunteers boost Habitat’s capacity
to build more houses and serve more families. The fourth
annual event challenged women of Greater Lansing to devote
April 30 to the effort of eliminating poverty housing. More
than 1,800 Women Build houses have been built nationwide
since the program began in 1998.

Team Chamber turned out in full force


to support National Women Build Week!

Above: Owner Becky Beauchine


Kulka displays some of her
fine jewelry before a couple
of attendees at the May Cham-
ber mixer held in her Okemos
store

Above: Chamber Mixers are always a networking draw. The May


event at Becky Beauchine Kulka Diamonds & Fine Jewelry was
no exception.

Left: The Business of Education was the topic of conversation


at the May Economic Club luncheon. A distinguished panel
discussed how business and parents can get more involved in
improving the quality of education in Michigan. Panelists
included (l-r): Mike Flanagan, State Superintendent of Schools;
Dan Quisenberry, president, Michigan Association of Public
School Academies; Lou Glazer, president, Michigan Future; Amber
Arellano, executive director, Education Trust Midwest; and Stan
Kogut, superintendent, Ingham Intermediate School District.
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
The Stadium District PAID
500 East Michigan Avenue, Suite 200 LANSING, MI
Lansing, MI 48912 PERMIT NO. 622
Ph. 517.487.6340
lansingchamber.org
Address Correction Requested

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