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Chamber Executive Michigan Intelligence Report March 2, 2015
Michigan Chamber Foundation To Launch Young Entrepreneurs Academy Pilot Program In Lansing In Fall 2015
The Michigan Chamber Foundation is pleased to announce its partnership with the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!), a nationally-recognized innovative program that transforms local high school students into real entrepreneurial successes. The Michigan Chamber Foundation will launch a pilot YEA! program in the Lansing area in the fall of 2015.
"One of the most interesting components of the YEA! program is the actual 'behind the scenes' knowledge that local business leaders are able to share with students," said Bob Thomas, Executive Director of the Michigan Chamber Foundation. "This experience is something they will be able to apply to any field they choose to enter, and will provide them with the necessary skills to become future leaders of their industries."
YEA! is a cutting-edge program that takes students in grades 9-12 through the process of starting and launching a real business over the course of an academic year. By the end of the class, students own and operate fully formed and functioning businesses, which may be carried on after their graduation from the program.
"YEA! aims to teach students at an early age how to make a job, not just take a job," noted Thomas. "It is the only pre-college program developed by an entrepreneur, at a university, with support from a major entrepreneurial foundation – the Kauffman Foundation – and the US Chamber of Commerce." Read more: Michigan Chamber
‘Innovative’ Greenville Chamber of Commerce hands out annual honors
A successful city needs a successful chamber of commerce. As it turns out, Greenville has one of the best.
After yet another successful year advocating for this community, the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual meeting and awards celebration. The event highlighted the accomplishments of the chamber last year and handed out annual awards.
“It’s a great opportunity to celebrate the outstanding people we have in Greenville,” said Chamber of Commerce Co-Executive Director Candy Kerschen. “Greenville is a great place to work and live because of them and they are very deserving of our appreciation and recognition. The annual dinner is also a great opportunity to acknowledge the accomplishments we have achieved together as a business community.”
Held at the Montcalm County Fairgrounds, the awards dinner theme was based on the upcoming Super Bowl. Attendees enjoyed a buffet and drinks as well as playing a game of pseudo squares throughout the night. There also was a drawing for a large flat screen TV.
Outstanding Chamber
Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals Bob Thomas joined the ceremony and gave a small speech. He praised the fact that the Greenville Chamber has won Michigan’s Outstanding Chamber of the Year award three times, which is one of only three chambers out of 300 in Michigan to receive the award thrice.The Greenville Chamber won the award in 2009, 2011 and 2012. Read more: The Daily News
Lansing named 4th-best affordable place to live on national list
Michigan's capital city is home to considerable amenities and affordable living, which landed it on Livability.com's Best Affordable Places to Live 2015 list.
Editors looked at three main economic factors: cost of living, median household income and median home value. But they also factored in their own "LivScore," which considered things like cultural amenities and entertainment options.
Lansing came in as the fourth-best affordable city in the United States.. The cost of living in Lansing is 8 percent below the national average, according to The Council of Community and Economic Research. Housing prices are also lower than average.
According to data from Zillow.com, Lansing's median home sale price is $88,000. Surrounding places are more expensive -- East Lansing has a median sale price of $172,169, Okemos is at $173,675 and DeWitt Township is $167,080.Read more: M Live
Dearborn chamber forum: Community conversations to focus on college affordability, job market challenges
The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce will offer two free public forum for residents to engage in dialogue concerning college value and affordability and challenges faced by Michigan residents in the job market at its Community Conversations series from 6 to 8 p.m. on March 4 and March 25 at The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce, located at the Bryant Branch Library, 22100 Michigan Ave.
The Community Conversations series is held in partnership with The Center for Michigan, a nonprofit, nonpartisan “think-and-do” tank, focused on framing strategies relating to solving public issues by engaging citizens and providing our elected leaders with public opinion. Read more: Press and Guide
Brighton Area Chamber Professional Women's Club: Event Helps Local Women Become Heart Healthy & Reduce Stress
An educational event helped raise awareness about heart disease while inspiring local women to make changes in their lives, reduce stress and become heart healthy. The second annual Brighton Go Red for Women luncheon was held today, with many attendees wearing red to recognize February as Heart Month. The event was hosted by the Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce Professional Women’s Club of Michigan and Michigan Heart, a member of Saint Joseph Mercy Health System. Michigan Heart Cardiologist Mark Bernstein discussed the impact of stress on the heart and how to manage it in a healthy way. Bernstein tells WHMI coronary disease typically develops later in women than men and it’s important to know the warning signs and symptoms because they may not be the same for men and women. He says modifying behaviors helps lower the risk of developing coronary heart disease but acknowledged it's easier said than done. Read more: WHMI 95.5 FM
Traverse City Area Chamber's Kent Wood: Growing business is good for Michigan
It’s good to have friends in high places.
The Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance looks to have an ally in Gov. Rick Snyder, who laid out an aggressive agenda for 2015 in his State of the State address in Lansing last week. The Alliance represents eight area chambers and thousands of businesses across Northern Michigan. It is fortunate that many of its 2015 legislative priorities align with the governor’s goals. The organization looks forward to working with lawmakers and our members to get these things done to keep Michigan moving forward.
The Alliance is encouraged by the governor’s strong support for more investment in talent and workforce development. That is also among our top priorities this year. More and more northern Michigan businesses are finding it difficult to find skilled workers in manufacturing, construction and other sectors — businesses that help drive the northern Michigan economy. Read more: Traverse City Record-Eagle
Canton Chamber blazes digital marketing trail
Canton has become only the second Michigan community forging a new digital marketing platform, Save Local Now, designed to give an economic boost to local businesses.
The effort allows Canton Chamber of Commerce members to offer discounts, snag potential customers using search engines Google and Bing, announce promotions and holiday hours, broaden their email marketing campaigns and create their own digital profiles – all in one place.
"We're really excited about it," chamber President Thomas Paden said Wednesday, using his State of the Chamber address as a springboard for Save Local Now.
The service – free and exclusively for chamber members – has iPhone and Android apps making it even easier for businesses and shoppers to connect. It also can be accessed through www.cantonchamber.com and www.savelocalnow.com. Read more: Hometown Life
Michigan Chamber Of Commerce Announces 2015-2016 Legislative Priorities/Agenda For Job Creation And Business Growth
The Michigan Chamber of Commerce today announced legislative priorities for 2015-2016. These priorities were developed by the Chamber's policy committees with input from over 500 business leaders from across the state and were unanimously approved on January 27, 2015 by the Michigan Chamber's 84-member Board of Directors.
"The Michigan Chamber represents over 6,700 job providers throughout the state who are strongly committed to moving Michigan forward by advancing this agenda to further improve Michigan's economic competitiveness," said Michigan Chamber President & CEO Rich Studley. "The Chamber's legislative priorities for 2015-2016 are intended to focus lawmakers' attention on public policy initiatives to encourage job creation and business growth."
"Michigan Chamber members and staff will continue to play a constructive role in shaping Michigan's future," noted Jim Holcomb, Senior Vice President for Business Advocacy & General Counsel for the Michigan Chamber. "We are dedicated to an economic future that includes more and better jobs for Michigan families; more efficient state and local government for taxpayers; and stronger communities with a better quality of life for every resident of the Great Lakes State." Read more: Michigan Chamber
Grand Rapids Area Chamber EPIC Awards
The EPIC Awards celebrates those businesses and people who are doing great things in the business community by being Entrepreneurial, Progressive, Innovative and Collaborative.
Seven categories of awards recognize businesses and individuals supporting the community, demonstrating growth, finding ways to innovate, and are working with others as mentors and collaborators.
NEW! Veteran-Owned Business Category Announced
An ALL NEW VETERAN-OWNED Business of the Year category for the 2015 EPIC Awards was announced at the Chamber’s 127th annual meeting!
“The Grand Rapids Area Chamber recognizes the many contributions veterans make to our businesses and community. We are excited to announce the inclusion of a Veteran-Owned Business of the Year Award as part of our on-going support for veterans and small businesses,” said Janet Wyllie, Vice President of Business Growth Initiatives at the Chamber.
Don’t wait to nominate!
EPIC Awards Nominations Open Jan. 19
We’re looking forward to another year of recognizing outstanding businesses and entrepreneurs in our community at the 2015 EPIC Awards—slated for June 1 at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
Get your nominations in early! EPIC nominations open Monday, January 19 and will be accepted through 5 p.m. Friday, February 20. Submit the completed form(s) to [email protected]
Western Upper Peninsula chambers held Thirsty Thursday in Ironwood
Government and business leaders from all six counties that comprised the Western Upper Peninsula chambers of commerce in Gogebic, Ontonagon, Iron, Baraga, Houghton and Keweenaw counties gathered at the Maplewood Steakhouse in Ironwood on Jan. 22 to socialize and discuss new ideas for helping the region prosper for the chamber's "Thirsty Thursday" meeting.
"We view the event as an opportunity to connect with each other, share best practices and gain understanding of what is happening around the Western UP," the chamber's press release regarding the event announced. "In the spirit of cooperation, it is recognized that as the Western UP grows and prosper, we all gain."
Several speakers provided attendees with updates regarding their group's activities.
Michael Brown, Ironwood's Community Development Director, discussed the city's vision of the future as detailed in the city's new comprehensive plan. The plan - which Brown said could be viewed on the city website - included a public survey portion. Many of these survey responses, according to Brown, highlight goals that are applicable to the entire region - such as developing new businesses as well as encouraging growth for existing businesses, enhancing community image, promoting tourism and outdoor recreation opportunities and coordinating on a regional level to improve delivery of services and economic development. Read more: Your Daily Globe
Governor Snyder's FY 2015-2016 budget proposal
On Wednesday, Governor Rick Snyder proposed to a joint session of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees a $54 billion budget for the coming fiscal year. His main priorities were education investments (from third-grade reading to university funding), skilled trades training, public safety, and the state's Rainy Day Fund.
Governor Snyder spoke positively regarding Michigan's current economic status, emphasizing that Michigan is at its lowest unemployment levels since 2002, and profits are up across the state.
One focus of the budget proposal centered on how to best cope with the sudden influx of companies claiming their MEGA tax credits that were given out by the previous administration. The state's General Fund is projected to end the current fiscal year with a $325 million shortfall, largely due to the credits. Governor Snyder said that the uncertainty of when the credits will be claimed makes budgetary planning very difficult, and that more visibility is needed in order to effectively plan ahead. Read more: Grand Rapids Chamber
40 Under 40: Katie Perry and Tim Terrentine of Southwest Michigan First among top young economic developers in nation
Two of Southwest Michigan First's professional team have been included among the top 40 young economic developers in the nation by an industry trade organization.
Development Counsellors International named Katie Perry and Tim Terrentine to its 40 Under 40, a listing it describes as the rising stars in the economic development field.
Perry is a vice president of SWMF who has, since 2010, been involved with the organization's external marketing efforts, including such things as developing strategic marketing concepts and maintaining the organization's online presence.
According to SWMF: "Her management experience includes brand development, digital and web-based campaigns and attraction work, of which her most notable efforts include Newell Rubbermaid's decision to pursue a Kalamazoo location in 2013."
She is a life-long Michigan resident, who has had leadership roles in such organizations as the Irving S. Gilmore International Keyboard Festival and The Civic Theatre. She has a bachelor's degree in business management from Cornerstone University.
Terrentine is an executive vice president of SWMF whose main role is to support the growth of small businesses by working as president of the Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce. According to SWMF: "Tim's passion for helping current and future leaders make the most of their potential helps accelerate the brand of the organization's Catalyst Leadership Series, a program geared to empowering Michigan's leaders to greatness." Read more: M LIVE
Keith D. Markstrom, named interim president and CEO of Bay Area Chamber of Commerce
Keith D. Markstrom, former director of what is now the McLaren Bay Medical Foundation, has been named interim president and CEO of the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce.
He steps in to fill a spot left vacant following the retirement of Mike Seward, who retired in January after 13 years leading the organization. Markstrom said he expects that within three to six months, chamber officials are likely to have found a long-term replacement.He said he doesn't plan to apply for the job.
"I have no desire, no intention," he said. "I'm trying to assist the chamber and the community." Read more: M Live
Bay Area leaders look toward future at annual State of the Community Luncheon
Area leaders updated the public this week about future programs and initiatives taking place in Bay City and Bay County government and education.
The 15th annual Bay Area Chamber of Commerce State of the Community Luncheon was held Wednesday, Feb. 18, at Bay Valley Resort and Conference Center in Frankenlust Township. More than 300 people attended the annual event.
The meeting began with a moment of silence for Alice Wirt, the Bay City philanthropist who died this week. Wirt, 93, and her husband, the late Jack Wirt, are best known for making a $750,000 to help construct the Alice and Jack Wirt Public Library in downtown Bay City.
Bay City Manager Rick Finn, Bay County Executive Thomas Hickner and Pinconning Area Schools Superintendent Michael Vieau offered snapshots of accomplishments and new initiatives to those in attendance. Read more: M LIVE
Michigan Retail Index – Strong December Lifts Michigan Holiday Season
Most Michigan retailers reported better holiday sales, thanks to a strong December, according to the Michigan Retail Index, a joint project of Michigan Retailers Association (MRA) and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago.
“December was the best month since July, helped by sharply lower gasoline prices, lower unemployment and moderate weather,” said James P. Hallan, MRA president and chief executive officer. “That boost lifted holiday sales and results for all of 2014, although not as much as expected.”
The December monthly survey of MRA members showed 54 percent of retailers increased sales over the same month last year, while 29 percent recorded declines and 17 percent reported no change. The results create a seasonally adjusted performance index of 66.5, up sharply from 48.1 in November. A year ago December the Index stood at 50.5.
Looking forward, 49 percent of retailers expect sales during January–March to increase over the same period last year, while 22 percent project a decrease and 29 percent no change. That puts the seasonally adjusted outlook index at 68, up from 64.1 in November. A year ago December the Index stood at 63.3. Source: MRA and FRBC
Attorney General Schuette talks Michigan's future at Midland Chamber's annual meeting
Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette emphasized the importance of jobs, safety and education for the future of Michigan during an address this morning at the Midland Area Chamber of Commerce’s 76th annual meeting.
“Michigan’s tomorrows can be better and brighter and safer than ever before,” Schuette said. To make that happen, leaders need to address inequalities in each of those three areas, he said.
Schuette said the states with the most jobs are those where taxes are lowest. He said Michigan needs to be at the top of the pack for job creation.Safety also matters, he said.
“Everybody needs to have safety in their streets, schools and neighborhoods,” Schuette said, regardless of where they live. Schuette stated the safety equation is solved through more cops and tougher laws. Read more: Midland Daily News
Oakland Chamber Network has announced its 2015 leadership team
The Oakland Chamber Network, a collaboration of 28 chambers of commerce in Oakland County, has announced its 2015 leadership team, with Auburn Hills Chamber Executive Director Denise Asker serving as president for a one-year term. The team of executive directors from five area chambers includes: Marie Hauswirth, executive director, Waterford Area Chamber of Commerce; Ara Topouzian, president/CEO, Troy Chamber of Commerce; Tanya Markos-Vanno, executive director, Southfield Area Chamber of Commerce; and Keri Valmassei, executive director, Madison Heights/Hazel Park Chamber of Commerce. Source: Oakland Press
Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea: "Leaders Open Doors: A Radically Simple Leadership Approach to Lift People, Profits, and Performance" by Bill Treasurer
"I got to open doors for people!" These seven simple words, spoken by author Bill Treasurer's five-year-old son, cut straight to what matters most about leadership: True leaders open doors for people. This radically simple concept is the heart of Leaders Open Doors.
This book presents a fresh and unique take on leadership that will benefit experienced leaders and those just starting their leadership journeys. With a little courage, anyone at any level can be a leader.
Drawing on two decades of experience, author and speaker Bill Treasurer, in this new second edition, combines personal stories and anecdotes to illustrate how (and how not) to inspire people. He approaches these ideas with the belief that great leadership is not hierarchical; it is the people's willingness to take initiative and reach their goals that is crucial to successful leadership. Read more: Leaders Open Doors
Elk Rapids Michigan Names New Chamber Head
The Elk Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce has hired Tom Kern of Traverse City as its new executive director. He replaces Misty Youngson, who left the organization last fall.
Kern recently returned to Traverse City from Steamboat Springs, Colo., where he was CEO of the Chamber Resort Association there. He also previously held CEO and COO positions at the chambers in Lawrence, Kansas; Fairfax County, Virginia; and Cincinnati, Ohio. Read more: Traverse Ticker
Midwest U.S. Chamber Advocacy Resources Available For Your Chamber
As you plan your Chamber programming this year, the U.S. Chamber Great Lakes Regional Office is here to help local chambers across Indiana. Here are a few ways their team can assist as you fill your 2015 calendars:
Legislative Updates - Their staff members are always available to address your chamber’s governmental affairs committee and/or monthly membership breakfasts or luncheons to update your members on issues before Congress and how they could impact the business community in your region.
Member of Congress Meet and Greets - Consider hosting informal meet and greets for your new and returning Members of Congress to provide them opportunities to interact with your members and give an overview of their priorities for the 114th Congress. These events could be at your chamber or at a member business you’d like to showcase. The U.S. Chamber's staff can help you schedule one of these in the next few months.
Government Affairs Training - Is your chamber ready to get more involved in advocacy? The U.S. Chamber's Governmental Affairs Chamber Training (GoACT) presentation is designed to educate your board/committee on best practices and ways to be better advocates for issues of concern. This short presentation is a great way to introduce or reiterate the importance advocacy plays as a program of work for a local chamber.
For more information, call the U.S. Chamber's Great Lakes Regional Office at 312-386-7796 and ask to speak with Ben, Cholly or Maggie.
It's Time to End Michigan's Wasteful Film Subsidy, Says Michigan Chamber of Commerce
The Michigan Chamber of Commerce today commended State Representative Dan Lauwers for introducing House Bill 4122 to finally end Michigan's wasteful and counterproductive film subsidy.
"We applaud Rep. Lauwers and every state legislator who joined him by co-sponsoring this important reform," said Jim Holcomb, Senior Vice President for Business Advocacy & General Counsel for the Michigan Chamber.
"This boondoggle currently costs Michigan taxpayers $50 million a year and even the state's own economic development agency (MEDC) reported this costly subsidy failed in 2013 to create one permanent job," noted Tricia Kinley, Senior Director of Tax & Regulatory Reform the Michigan Chamber. "The time to end this wasteful spending is long overdue and we are urging the Legislature to take immediate action." Read more: Michigan Chamber
Vicksburg selected to be member of Michigan Main Street program through MSHDA
Vicksburg is one of only 12 communities in the state to be chosen this year for the Michigan Main Street associate level program through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority.
The selection will allow members of the village staff, Downtown Development Authority and Vicksburg Chamber of Commerce to be trained on the basics of the Main Street Four Point Approach, including organization, promotion, economic restructuring and design.
Kathleen Hoyle, Vicksburg DDA director, said the program will train Vicksburg’s volunteers to help revitalize and improve its downtown area, which is all part of the DDA’s rejuvenated efforts the past year that includes everything from a reorganization of the group to expanding its boundaries. Read more: M LIVE
Governor's Budget Focuses on Skilled Trades
Governor Snyder’s Fiscal Year 2016 budget proposal includes nearly $36 million in new investments for skilled trades training, enhanced educational opportunities and college and career planning. Combined with existing programs, the Governor’s proposed budget would include more than $83 million for career and technology education and skilled trades initiatives.
The budget focuses on three primary opportunities: 1) Increasing opportunities for students to pursue career choices via a five-year high school program that allows students the opportunity to earn a high school diploma and either an associate degree, technical certification, transferable college credits or participation in a registered apprenticeship; 2) Providing individuals with opportunities to improve existing skills and learn new in-demand skills, matching individuals with apprenticeships and potential employees; and 3) Improving access to planning tools and information about career planning in Michigan’s high schools.
The Michigan Chamber appreciates the Governor's focus on closing the skills gap by developing a new generation of graduates with a technical education or skilled trade and we look forward to diving deeper into the budget details as they are released and considered by the Legislature. Read more: Michigan Chamber
Last Month’s Stories:
Bay Area Chamber of Commerce President Michael Seward on career, chamber's future: M LIVE
2015 Michigan State of the State Address Recap Grand Rapids Area chamber
Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber Announces Josh Linkner as Keynote Speaker: visit www.swcrc.com
Entrepreneur Larry Hines brings experience, low-key approach to chair position with Muskegon Chamber M LIVE
Plymouth Chamber focus: Plans for high-tech business park taking shape Hometown Life
Traverse City Area Chamber honors Susanne Janis Traverse City Record-Eagle
MSU forum to address Michigan’s economic future MSUToday
Penny Shanks of Clarkston Chamber set to Retire after 18 years Clarkston Chamber
Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea: Playing Big: Find Your Voice, Your Mission, Your Message - by Tara Mohr TaraMohr.com
Grand Rapids Chamber Announces Two Staff Promotions Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce
2015 Boyne Area (Michigan) Chamber of Commerce award winners Boyne City Gazette
State chamber challenge: Essay contest for Michigan high school students Record & Clarion
Marshall (Michigan) Chamber of Commerce plans to merge with MAEDA Battle Creek Examiner
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