LoCaL resoUrCes goVerNmeNt reLatioNs CHAMBER Jackson …€¦ · eeCU’s longest standing and newest members, help eeCU celebrate 75 years of service! 2 Chamber News July / aug

Jacksonchamber.org July / aug 2011 Chamber News 1

CHAMBER 2011Jackson county chamber of commerce

YOU Have the Power to Make Positive Change and Create a Huge Economic Impact

This newsletter’s theme is quality of life and community

commitment. most people can quickly explain community com-mitment and what it means to them, but quality of life seems to be more ambiguous. What does quality of life really mean? Whenever researching random questions like this, I turn to google.

of course, google turned up the obvious quality of life defini-tions (health, family, climate), but there were also a number of responses for quality of life as it relates to a lack of per-fect health. There are numer-ous websites and articles dedi-cated to addressing the very basic ‘quality of life’ standards for people with a health impedi-ment, from diabetes to ms to quadriplegia.

This was a good reminder to appreciate the most common things that make our daily life easy and enjoyable…the things

that we so often take for granted. This news-

letter will show examples of the great quality of life available to us in Jack-son, and it will

highlight some people who are

choosing to appre-ciate and enhance that

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Qualities to Appreciate

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Volume9 number7/8

News

Page4/5 Page6/7/10 Page11/12 Page13LoCaL ViewPoiNt Phil Tripp & Dr. Salah Huwais

LoCaL assetsParks, Arts, People, Community

LoCaL resoUrCes Volunteers, Health Improvement, Harnessing Potential

goVerNmeNt reLatioNs Update from Lansing

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Serving on a nonprofit board is more impor-tant that you ever imagined.

Did you know that Jackson County non-profit organizations employ more than 6300 people and pay more than $55 million in wages a quarter?

Did you know that Michigan’s nonprofit sec-tor was the only growth sector in Michigan in the past 10 years? Michigan nonprofits generate an additional 161,000 jobs as a result of spending by the organizations, and generate more than $108 billion, each year, in overall economic ac-tivity through direct expenditures of more than $60 billion, which creates indirect and induced economic effects of an additional $48 billion.

What a huge impact!Nonprofit organizations (those with a 501c3

tax designation) pay no tax on the money they make, pay no tax on the items they purchase, and those that donate to them pay no tax on their gifts. The federal government does not mince words about these tax benefits – nonprofit or-ganizations are “paid” to perform a service that reduces the government’s burden.

Most importantly, every nonprofit organiza-tion is required to be governed by an indepen-dent group of volunteers (that could be you!) who ensure that the $108 billion is managed wisely, used efficiently and that these organiza-tions are able to stretch every dollar to serve their mission, clients and community. These volunteers are called the Board of Trustees or Directors.

One primary responsibility of a board is to ensure the organization has the resources to accomplish their mission, and the most criti-

cal resource is strong leadership. I don’t need to explain to you how leadership can make or break any business. And yes – a good Executive Director is key, but an effective ED doesn’t come without a GREAT board.

Nonprofit boards need YOU. Boards require diversity – diversity in

thought, in education, in economic status, in background – to be able to make smart, grounded decisions to manage the gifts be-stowed upon them and ensure that the inten-tions of these gifts are realized. If you currently serve on a board of directors for a nonprofit organi-zation, THANK YOU. Your willingness to ensure that good decisions are made is important to keep Jackson’s 6300 jobs intact and continue to generate critical economic activity.

If you don’t currently serve on a board – call me, I would love to talk to you about serving one of the hundreds of nonprofit organizations in our community by filling one of the hundreds of open board positions. I guarantee, a nonprofit that serves a cause you are passionate about needs your skills, expertise and energy.

Abraham Lincoln said “I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him.”

In my humble opinion, serving on a nonprofit board is one of the most patriotic things you could do for your community.

*Content written by outside sources do not reflect the views & opinions of the Chamber.

Contributor: Regina Funkhouser, Executive Director of Nonprofit Network

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eeCU’s longest standing and newest members, help eeCU celebrate 75 years of service!

2 Chamber News July / aug 2011 Jacksonchamber.org

chamberstaFF

execuTIVeCommittee

boardoFdIrecTors

PresIDent/CeOMindy Bradish-Orta | [email protected] COOrDInAtOr Angela Machnik | [email protected] & HumAn resOurCes Mary Schuessler | [email protected] COOrDInAtOr Melissa Jaakkola | [email protected] & COmmunICAtIOns COOrDInAtOr Susan Franck | [email protected] Elizabeth James | [email protected]

Jeff Anderson | J. Jeffrey Anderson & AssociatesBrad Brelinski | Curtis & Curtis, P.C.AdAm Brown | Jackson Countywendy Clifton | A frame Abovefreddie dAnCy | AflACJeff edwArds | spring Arbor UniversitysArah ermAtinger | CP federal Credit UnionsCott fleming | enterprise grouptom graCe | maverick industriessArah hArtzler | south Central michigan works!BArt hAwley | JtV miChAel khoUri | Commercial exchangemArtin lozier | Aymond, lozier & Arora, PlCsAmmie lUkaskiewiCz | michigan international speedwaydAn mAletiCh | Comerica BankChAd noBle | Allegiance healthteri ogg | manpower servicesJAnet roChefort | Jackson County CVBlArry shAffer | City of JacksonmiChelle shields | Jackson Community CollegeCraig tAPley | kellogg Crankshaftken toll | United way of Jackson CountyJohn wAldron | County national Bank

CHAIr Dale Moretz | Moretz TechnologiesvICe CHAIr Mike Jones | Consumers EnergyImmeDIAte PAst CHAIrmAn Paul Buchholz | Lloyd Ganton Retirement CenterstreAsurer Tom Shemanski | NorthStar Capital, LLCseCretAry Aaron Boatin | Ambs Call CenterAt-LArge Karyn Clow | Orthopaedic Rehab Specialists, P.C. Dan Machnik | Willis & Machnik Financial Services Bob Michaels | RJM

The Exchange Club of Jackson recently lent their support to The Salvation Army by purchasing a new scoreboard for the gymnasium renovation project. 517.914.5546

After an exhausting but exhilarating day - Rotary Club of Jackson in conjunction with disAbility Connections completed another ramp for a community member in need. 517. 782.6054

The Jackson Host Lions Club celebrates 90 years of service to the Jackson Community and the 15 clubs that the Host Club chartered in the last 90 years. 517.789.8086

Fly the flag in front of your home or business. Proudly made available by the Kiwanis Club of Jackson for $30/year. For more information: jacksonkiwanis.com

Junior Achievement volunteers are dedicated to inspiring young people to succeed. Garcia Clinical Laboratory hosts a JA high school job shadow student. 517.782.7822

Greater Jackson Habitat for Humanity in partnership with Aware, Inc. is sponsoring a Women’s Build. To volunteer to build or bring lunches call 517.784.6620.

boardoFgoVernorsJohn Crist | CP federal Credit UnionPhiliP dUPUis | duPuis et fils Jewelers, inc.lindA fUrgAson | Avis rent A CarsUe goldsen | Jackson radio worksron griffith | spring Arbor UniversitysAndy mAes | Allegiance healthPhiliP m. moilAnen | marcoux, Allen, schomer, Bower, nichols, kendall, & lindseyUnionsteVen PAtCh | The lally groupdr. dAniel J. PhelAn | Jackson Community CollegeAllen sPiess, Jr. | kellogg Crankshaft

August 5-6, 2011: Award winning, Relay for Life Jackson is one of the oldest and largest in Michigan with 115 teams and more than 600 Survivors participating! 517.332.3300 x1353

Community Commitment


adVerTIsersiNdexA Frame Above ..........................................................................................................................................................................Page 6Comerica Bank ..........................................................................................................................................................................Page 5Comtronics ..................................................................................................................................................................................Page 16CP Federal Credit Union .....................................................................................................................................................Page 8EECU - A Community Credit Union ...........................................................................................................................Page 16Jackson Public Schools ..........................................................................................................................................................Page 16Lloyd Ganton Retirement Centers.................................................................................................................................Page 9RJM ..................................................................................................................................................................................................Page 3Spring Arbor University.........................................................................................................................................................Page 7

“Change in society has to begin in the motives of men.”

-Alexis Carrel, 1912 Nobel Prize winner

Book Club is one of the Chamber staffs’ fa-vorite activities. We agree on a book to read

and at the end of each weekly staff meeting review what each of us took away from the assigned read-ing and how it might apply to our lives. Our cur-rent book is an illustration of how we can make a positive impact on society by networking our strengths, supporting and encouraging each oth-er to push forward while maintaining personal and corporate integrity. The book, Uncommon Friends is a memoir of the friendships the author, James Newton had with 5 extraordinary men: Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, Harvey Firestone, Alexis Carrel and Charles Lindbergh.

Each of these men significantly impacted our society. Their character qualities, ideals and work ethic were similar. The lessons we can learn from their life stories are just as relevant today as we work together creating a better quality of life here in Jackson. Lessons such as: • Inyourpursuits,workingwithateamand being optimistically persistent ensures success. • Practiceunrelentingrespectforallmen.Itis not ‘who’ is right, rather ‘what’ is the right thing to do. • Forrefreshment,deliberatelytaketimeout to think, create and reflect. • Haveanattitudeofgratitude. • Mostofallconnectwithyourvaluesand remain true to them.

Woven throughout this issue, I hope you catch a glimpse of these same qualities personified in the passions of some of your fellow Jacksonians.

I hope you find inspiration and encouragement to continue in your commitment to our community. I hope your gratitude is renewed for the people of Jackson and what our town offers her citizens in the sense of community pride, parks, activities and resources.

Our quality of life, here in Jackson, is enhanced when we each take responsibility for our family, home and community. If something isn’t right, pointing a finger won’t help. Yet, who needs one more thing to do? Consider another important message from the book, ‘For a full life, there must be balance, passion and living for something big-ger than yourself.’

Our own Ric Walton said, “Quality of life is waking up each morning with purpose.”

The book also reminds us that ‘Man is a multi-faceted being; we are surrounded by scores of things that influence us. Not only the chemical elements-air, water, soil-but also our social environment-our dwellings, schools, hospitals, churches.’ We were not created to be self sufficient. Each of us was given our own special gifts to use in the building up of one another.

Build with us. …

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Printing and Mailing by Great Lakes Graphics


LoCaL ViewPoiNt

it all began with a phone call...

Personal responsibility and doing what you CAn do.

It’s a wonder in this economy, with so many hav-ing to tighten their spending dollars, to see busi-

nesses like Tripp’s Auto Shop and Collision forg-ing ahead as Title Sponsors for some of Jackson’s biggest events like the Hot Air Jubilee, Civil War Muster and the Chili Cook off.

My question to Phil was, “Why do you do it?” His answer came with conviction and passion in his voice. Phil had a message that all of us need to be reminded of.

“Jackson is my home,’ began Phil, ‘my family lives here and this is my community. It’s not that you do or don’t support the community, rather it’s a must. Not IF you give, rather WHERE do you give and how?”

Giving to the Jackson community has always been a part of his business model and personal philosophy. Phil’s checkpoint was, “Your calendar and your wallet will tell you where your heart is. Where you spend your time and money indicate your values.”

“Giving to the community is almost selfish, we have much to be thankful for and instead of cut-ting back on giving and we are finding ways to do more. It’s the principle of reaping what you sow”, but then Phil quickly qualified that statement with, “but that’s not why you do it.”

It’s about personal responsibility and doing what you CAN do.

At the shop, he instills in his employees that work is not just a job. You take personal respon-sibility for your contributions. No complaining about things. Just be in the game, a supporting team player. Do what you CAN do. Whether its work, customer service or the community, each employee must believe they have a stake in the outcome. Phil says his job is to inspire and make people believe they can do it.

Phil then launched into his positive out-look of Jackson. It is his belief that it takes only a few people to decide that Jackson is a great place to be. “Yes, we have problems and yes, we’ve been kicked, but what of it?” He suggested that maybe some folks, who

are negative, have lost sight of what is here and pos-sibly don’t know any better. As leaders of Jack-son, it’s becomes OUR personal responsibility to come along side to challenge them in a friendly way. We have many

‘jewels’ within our town that people don’t pay attention to and he challenges all of us to lift our heads to see all we DO have. Phil has observed that many people are in a rut, saying they are stuck in this crappy town. He likes to remind those he runs into that they can take personal responsibility to make their street and neighborhood a better place because that’s WHERE THEY LIVE. Do what you CAN do. The contribution doesn’t have to be monetary; you can use your time, talents and energy.

As business leaders, it is up to us to be person-

ally responsible for speaking well of Jackson, em-ploying our time, talents, energy and yes, finances to add to the quality of life and thus build upon the assets of this place we call home. We all have a stake in the outcome.


LoCaL ViewPoiNt

ChoicesIn places just half a world away*, people have

little or no choice. Professional people, like you and I, are sporting rifles instead of suits to fight for freedoms we take for granted. In their opposition to the current regime, protestors suffer for their choice to take action as they are fired upon and food and water supplies are cut off. Yet, be-cause freedom is priceless, they choose to fight.

Local doctor Salah Huwais grew up on the side of the world where people had no choices and voices didn’t matter. That is why he is passionate about exer-cising his choice to make a dif-ference in his adopted commu-nity, Jackson. As the co-founder of JCEG, Jackson Citizens for Economic Growth, he pushes us beyond our comfort zones because from his perspective, we do not have the luxury of maintaining the status quo. “The whole world is moving one way or the other. We need to move as well, and it is your job and mine to make sure it moves towards what is best for the next generation, your kids and mine. It is simple, it is all about them. I really do it for them.”

Dr. Huwais’, opinion is that quality education and getting connected both virtually and physi-cally is the only way out of our economic strug-gles. To do that we need to pull together, change mindsets, promote value for education and instill community pride. It is about democracy and get-ting involved to push for change.

Yes, he runs into opposition because leading change is never easy. Yet, he continues. He says he is here by choice. He owns his choice. America affords him this right and he feels that he owes it to his country, community and family to make it a better place. Dr. Huwais will be the first to tell you that America does not owe us anything. We owe her. He has a chance to cast his voice for change and to make it a reality.

Initially, after completing his training in Chica-go, Dr. Huwais was directed to Jackson by a friend. He and his wife were impressed with the people

they met. The longer they stayed, the more they appreciated our community. He describes Jack-son as having the ‘big town feel’ with small town charm. Compared to Chicago, it’s slow living, the people are nice, he loves his patients and his staff

have a great work ethic. The opportunities here…are limited only by our imaginations.

“The best part of living in America,’ says Dr. Huwais, ‘is that you can wake up every morning and nobody will hold you back from exercising your freedom to use your voice and make choices – right or wrong.”

How can you step up to employ your freedoms? For more information about Jackson Citizens for Economic Growth visit www.GrowJackson.com

*In reference to Libya’s current civil war

Did You Know?

Jackson organizations are working daily to improve our

community! here are a few projects that

could use your help:

� bring high speed commuter rail to Jackson

� build a beautiful clock tower over the cell tower at cooper street exit on I-94

� improve the cooper street corridor, creating a welcoming gateway into downtown Jackson

� connect fiber optics throughout Jackson

For more information on how you can help, visit www.growJackson.com


LoCaL assets

Quality of Life can be a nebulous term. It is a catch-all phrase that accounts for things like

economic conditions, physical attributes, political environments, recreation and culture. It is often confused with standard of living measurements. Quality of life looks not only at income levels and economic conditions but also at the general hap-piness and well-being of the residents in a commu-nity.

Of particular interest to me, as a parks director, is the portion of that definition that deals with recre-ation and leisure time. Born and raised in Jackson, I have had opportunities to travel to several towns throughout the state and catch a quick glimpse of the local flavors that appear within each com-munity. Of course, when you travel outside of the Jackson area you will (without a doubt) hear the classic response, “Oh yeah, Jackson, isn’t that where the prison is?”

Yes it is. Yet more importantly, it is also where you will find a friendly community with dozens of parks, quality higher education institutions, cultur-al opportunities and festivals ranging from Shake-speare to hot air balloons and a myriad of other offerings. Jackson has as much, if not more, rec-reational and cultural opportunities than many of our neighboring communities throughout the state.

This was reinforced in my mind recently as I spoke with several people that have been involved with the city manager and county administrator searches over the past year. The candidates have gone out of their way to compliment the com-munity on the recreational and cultural offer-ings that Jackson enjoys. And if you think about

Jackson – michigan’s Best kept secret

it, they are right. How many communities have a major park like Ella Sharp Park (562 acres)? Not many. But don’t stop there, how many communi-ties also have a 460 acre park similar to Sparks Park with a landmark facility like Cascade Falls? Or an arts community where there once was a prison and armory? Or a festival pretty much every weekend during the summer? The list goes on and on. These opportunities assist in making Jackson a viable op-tion for future businesses and residents.

Budget cuts and job creation are hot political topics these days. Communities are putting their best foot forward to attract businesses to their area. Whereas businesses surely look at the financial tax break packages and the workforce that is available, I would also argue that they will also take a look

at the some of the quality of life indicators in the community. Are people happy here? How are the schools? What types of leisure activities does the community offer its residents?

Back in the 1980’s, the gateway signs at the Jack-son City limits read; “Jackson – We Like It Here”. These signs were the brunt of many jokes in my high school. You don’t have to have a lot of imagina-tion to think of all of the alternative words that were plugged in to alter the meaning of that statement. But in any case, I think a vast majority of the resi-dents of Jackson do like it here, and they are pleased to call Jackson home. I am proud to be counted in that number and believe that Jackson is slowly changing its reputation from the “prison city” to an affordable, well rounded community with a high quality of life. Many of the people I talk with about this topic seem to have a similar view. But for some reason, this seems to be a theme that remains quiet among the community. Maybe the next time we put up signs at the gateways to

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should say; “Jackson – michigan’s Best Kept secret”.

Contributor: Brandon Ransom, Jackson City and County Parks Director [email protected]


LoCaL assets

The Attractiveness of Arts in the Community

In the past, the success of a community depend-ed in large part on available natural resources

and cheap transportation that would attract busi-nesses and industries. However, with the phe-nomenal rise of the Internet, many businesses and industries are no longer tethered to a particu-lar region. In today’s economy, the community that provides a high quality of life - a variety of arts and cultural events and facilities, parks and other recreation - is more likely to be suc-cessful because it will draw the innovative and tech-savvy professionals who want to enjoy those amenities and raise their families in a culture-rich environment. This is Jackson!

The 2006 Community Cultural Plan, facili-tated by the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Jackson County, highlights our wealth of arts and cultural opportunities and provides a blueprint for mak-ing the most of them. The Alliance is working with others to build that sense of community, to implement the plan and to explore new opportu-nities.

We were created as a grass roots initiative by the arts organizations in Jackson who wanted to col-laborate to make our voice stronger, our presence more visible and our influence more recognized. The Alliance is thrilled to draw attention to our great local arts and cultural resources. We are responsible for projects such as: the placing of public arts on Jackson street corners, the art tour that showcases a plethora of local talent, the youth projects of Art a Loan and the Youth Sym-posium, Meet and Greets for Artists, the musical series of Jammin’ in Jackson and our website arts calendar.

Written by Ann Green, Board Chairman and Grant Bauman, Board Secretary, Arts & Cultural Alliance of Jackson County

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JULy eVeNtstUesday, JULy 19LUNCheoN with ari weiNzweig oF ziNgermaN’s Partnering with Spring Arbor University and the SAU Corporate Partner Network we are pleased to welcome Ari Weinzweig, co-owner and founding partner of Zingerman’s in Ann Arbor.

� Where: Daryl’s Downtown (151 W. Michigan Ave.)

� When: 11:30 - 1:00 pm � Cost: $25 pp includes lunch � Other: Preregister with the Chamber.

For questions regarding the event or SAU’s Corporate Partner Network contact Malachi Crane 517.750.6543 or [email protected]

thUrsday, JULy 21bUsiNess aFter hoUrs - dog days oF sUmmerThis BAH will be inside and out with families welcome. There will be a backyard agility course for your dog. Yes you can bring him/her! Hot

JULy meetiNgsmoNday, JULy 4Chamber Offices Closed

� When: Fourth of July

Friday, JULy 8Ambassador Committee

� Where: Lone Star Steakhouse and Saloon � When: 12:00-1:00 pm

tUesday, JULy 19Chamber Board of Directors

� Where: Bella Notte Ristorante � When: 7:30-8:30 am

wedNesday, JULy 20Economic Club Committee

� Where: Chamber Offices � When: 4:00-5:00 pm

Friday, JULy 22Legislative Committee

� Where: County Commission Chambers � When: 12:00-1:00 pm

CAlEndARJackson county chamber of commerce

To Register: Unless otherwise noted, R.S.V.P. for events to Mary at [email protected] or 517-782-8221 (please have your credit card information handy when you call). All cancellations must be received with a 24-hour notice or no shows will be billed. Non-members are encouraged to attend no more than two networking events before joining. All Chamber events are posted online at www.JacksonChamber.org under Events

dogs, chips and drinks will be served. This will be a unique Business After Hours which we feel will be fun for everyone. Won’t you join us?

� Where: Cascades Humane Society (1515 Carmen Dr.)

� When: 5:00-7:00 am � Cost: Free for Chamber members;

$10 for non-members � Other: Family Fun Night!

tUesday, JULy 26good morNiNg! greater JaCksoNFor a stimulating start of your work day, attend this live radio program that features 5 Chamber members. The July show is sponsored by A Butler 4 U, EECU-A Community Credit Union, House of New Beginnings, Inc, Jackson County Fair, and the Jackson Rose Festival Pagent.

� Where: Bella Notte Ristorante (137 W. Michigan Ave)

� When: 7:30-8:30 am � Cost: $10 for Chamber members;

$20 for prospective members � Other: Hot breakfast included


thUrsday, JULy 28MLK Diversity/Challenge Day Committee

� Where: Chamber Offices � When: 8:00-9:00 am

thUrsday, JULy 28JAXPO Committee


aUgUst eVeNtsFriday, aUgUst 12 member orieNtatioNOrientation for New Members, New Managers and Sales Professionals, learn more about chamber benefits, opportunities and events.

� Where: Chamber Offices � When: 7:30 am - 9 am � Cost: Free

thUrsday, aUgUst 18bUsiNess aFter hoUrsBaker College is celebrating 100 years of helping people prepare for new careers! Join us as we congratulate Baker College on their new Welcome Center. Tours will be available.

� Where: Baker College Welcome Center (2800 Springport Rd.)

� When: 5:00-7:00 pm � Cost: Free for Chamber members; $10 for

prospective members

tUesday, aUgUst 23good morNiNg! greater JaCksoNFor a stimulating start of your work day, attend this live radio program that features 5 Chamber members. The August show is sponsored by 2nd Time Around, Accident Fund, Lloyd Ganton Retirement Centers, United Way of Jackson County, and Verizon Wireless

� Where: Bella Notte Ristorante (137 W Michigan Ave)

� When: 7:30-8:30 am � Cost: $10 for Chamber members; $20 for

prospective members � Other: Hot breakfast and networking

included

tUesday, aUgUst 23JaxPo VeNdor meetiNgJAXPO vendors only. This will be an informational meeting to prepare vendors for JAXPO 2011.

� Where: Bella Notte Ristorante (137 W Michigan Ave)

� When: 8:45 - 10:00 am � Cost: Free

aUgUst meetiNgstUesday, aUgUst 9Leadership Academy Committee


Friday, aUgUst 12Ambassador Committee

� Where: Commonwealth Commerce Center � When: 12:00-1:00 pm

tUesday, aUgUst 16Chamber Board of Directors

� Where: Bella Notte Ristorante � When: 7:30-8:30 am

wedNesday, aUgUst 17Economic Club Committee


Friday, aUgUst 19Legislative Committee

� Where: County Commission Chambers � When: 12:00-1:00 pm

thUrsday, aUgUst 25MLK Diversity/Challenge Day Committee

� Where: Chamber Offices � When: 8:00-9:00 am

JAXPO Committee � Where: Chamber Offices � When: 12:00-1:00 pm


News/Talk 970 WKHM, K-105.3/Jackson’s Hit Music and ESPN Radio 1450 WIBM walks alongside cancer survivors at the Relay for Life, drives go-karts at the Junior Achievement Grand Prix and soar high over Jackson in balloons at the Hot Air Jubilee. Our mission is broadcasting “the best” about Jackson, promoting the great things that happen here, and encouraging everyone to work together to improve our quality of life.

LoCaL assets

media PerspectiveAs the owner/operators for the past 14 years

of the only three radio stations exclusively dedicated to serving the residents of Jackson County, we are extremely proud to do business with this community.

At the crossroads of two busy highways, Jack-son is truly an area “on the move.” Not only is it a very friendly place to do business, its citizens are some of the friendliest and most civic-minded people one will ever have a chance to meet!

The most impressive thing about Jackson County is how truly diverse it is, culturally, ec-onomically and creatively. Its three institutions of higher learning bring educated employees to area businesses. Organizations like the Jackson Symphony Orchestra and Ella Sharp Museum improve the quality of life for all its residents. And a myriad of non-profit agencies provide a safety net to the physically, emotionally and economi-cally challenged.

Jackson Can’t do it

without you!My commitment to our community is

based on faith and the belief that each of us can contribute to the quality of life that surrounds us.

My faith has taught me that all of us are equal in the sight of God with each given dif-ferent gifts to use in service to others, caring for one another. Imagine what we could ac-complish together, if we used our gifts accord-ingly.

What would Jackson look like if we were renowned for working together, everyone

striving to create the best place possible to have a business and raise a family? I believe our achievements would be overwhelmingly successful, creating many opportunities for growth. A community thrives when its citizen’s diversity, varied interests, skills and desires are all pooled together for the common good. Everyone contributing pushes the community forward, adding to the quality of life for all involved.

We need a reason to get up in the morning, I know I do. Having a purpose - whatever it may be - makes you feel good and gives you a sense of worth. That is quality of life and having a great attitude intensifies that quality. It’s a choice.

If we and our families live, work and play here in Jackson, let’s choose to em-ploy faith, great attitudes, service to one another and purpose. Join me in taking positive steps to im-prove the quality of life for ourselves and everyone here, now and in the future. Jackson can’t do it without you!

Contributor: Ric Walton, Walton Agency, Inc

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Contributors: Bruce and Sue GoldsenCo-owners, Jack-son Radio Works, Inc., WKHM A M / F M , WIBM Jack-son MI


We have all seen commercials for the match-making websites; just answer a few simple

profile questions about yourself, and let the com-puter find your perfect match. Now you can apply that matchmaking technology to improving your greater community.

The United Way of Jackson County, in part-nership with the Nonprofit Network and the

As the recession recedes, employers will rely more and more on external talent or

contingent workers – whether they are tempo-rary employees, contractors, outsourced work-ers or consultants – to achieve business goals in a more strategic, flexible way. According to our research, the most common reason worldwide for employing contingent workers is to meet peak seasonal demand. Yet fully 14 percent of employers across the globe now turn to contingent employees for more strategic reasons – to try out candidates prior to hiring for permanent positions, to provide longer-term flexibility, to quickly find talented peo-ple possessing specialized skills, and to outsource non-core business functions. Demand for special-ist contractors and outsourced workers will rise, es-pecially in knowledge-driven areas where technol-ogy allows talented people to work from anywhere in the world.

Contingent workers can indeed improve a company’s talent level, strategic options and pro-ductivity. Yet their contributions are by no means

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harnessing the Potential of the Contingent workforce

matchmakers

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a given. Employers shouldn’t assume that contin-gent workers will perform like company veterans after just a few hours on the job. making sure contingent workers will perform up to expec-tations requires, first, that employers find the right person, with the right skills, matched to the right job. And making that match can be a challenge. Whether an organization is hiring its contingent talent directly, or sourcing it via an em-ployment services firm, having a proven process in place for assessment and selection is critical.

Volunteer Centers of Michigan, has just launched a new, online volunteer matching solution. not-for-profit organizations can register their volunteer opportunities, including details such as time and location, type of work to be performed, suitable volunteer age ranges, and special skills needed.

When any individual registers and completes a profile of her interests and preferences, the com-puter will identify possible matches and email a notification to the volunteer. The volunteer may then accept that opportunity and automatically exchange information with the agency, or may click on links in the email notification to learn more about the posting.

The system also allows volunteers to log in and track their hours contributed through each post-ing. Volunteers may print ‘transcripts’ of their time if required for college applications, employer matching grant programs or other needs; and

not-for-profit agen-cies can now in-clude volunteer contributions in their annual state-ments with the push of a button.

Jackson has an ex-emplary history of gen-erosity, and of caring for our friends and neighbors. Now it is easier than ever to find a rewarding volunteer position. Our nonprof-it agencies need your help; log on to volunteer.uwjackson.org and pitch in!

To post volunteer opportunity: https://volun-teer.truist.com/nn-2/agency/

To find volunteer opportunity: http://volun-teer.truist.com/nn-2/volunteer/Contributor: Ken Toll, Executive Director, United Way of Jackson County

The second requirement for maximizing contingent workers’ ultimate value, and for retaining the best individuals, is engagement – the degree to which workers are committed to the company and its business goals and overall strategy. Companies looking to fully engage their contingent workforce must understand how to successfully integrate, train, manage and encourage these workers. If companies can develop the man-agement processes required to keep their contin-gent workforce truly engaged and harness their po-tential, they have a real opportunity to create a workforce designed to meet their strate-gic business goals.

C o nt r i b u t e d by: Teri Ogg, Area Manager Manpower


LoCaL resoUrCes

It is no secret that the health of Jackson County residents is not as good as it could be. Data on

our County shows that: � Less than a quarter of Jackson adults eat at least

5 fruits and vegetables a day, � Less than a quarter get 30 minutes of exercise

most days a week, � Almost 20% report less than adequate social

support, and; � More than a quarter of our residents are

current smokers.In addition to putting us at risk for future disease

and disability, these unhealthy habits can limit our ability to live the full, active and happy lives we want. Poor health habits can leave us too tired to enjoy our favorite activities, too distracted to con-centrate at work or with too little energy to play outside with our kids. What can be even harder to live with is when our bad habits become our chil-dren’s habits too.

But whose job is it to improve our individual and community health? And how do we do it?

What’s a County to do?The Health Improvement Organization

(HIO) is working hard to reveal the secrets to healthier living right here where we live, work, and play. We have spent the past two years working with community part-ners, gathering input from hundreds of community members, and searching for different sources of funding to do more

than talk about these problems. The HIO is ready to act and is asking the entire com-

munity to join forces in “stepping up” to the challenge ahead!

Step by Step “A Healthier You Starts with One Step” will help give families tools they need

to make better choices and eat more fruits and vegetables, move more, live smoke-free and deal with stress in healthy ways. The best part is that step by step is focused on the special places, things and people right here in Jackson Coun-ty, michigan. At the same time, Step by Step is

working with local business, restaurants, schools, churches, government agencies, health care, and social service agencies to help make Jackson a bet-ter place to live, work, and play. For example, you will soon notice the HIO logo at your favorite restaurants, pointing you in the direction of their healthier menu options. you may notice new walking clubs at your church. you will see billboards and other advertisements showing people you know that are taking steps toward better health. Or you may hear your kids talk-ing about what they learned at school about healthy habits.

Getting healthier is going to take all of us, but we think it will be a lot easier and a lot more fun if we do it together. Ask any one of the HIO partners or visit us at mystepbystep.org – there are tons of

ways you can live healthier right here in Jackson County!

For example, have you: � Created or joined a team in the Step by Step

Community Wellness Challenge at mystepbystep.org or by calling 517.780.7306?

� Held a walking meeting instead of sitting in a conference room?

� Made sure that your meetings and cafeteria included healthy food options such as fruit or fresh veggies?

� Thanked everyone that works at or patronizes your business for complying with smoke-free laws?

� Checked out the “Events Calendar” at mystepbystep.org to find events in your neck of the woods?

� Encouraged your family or friends to take steps toward better health?

Now it is your turn to let the secret out of the bag by telling everybody you know about Step by Step!


goVerNmeNt reLatioNs

An Update from lansingBy any measure, the actions of our state legisla-

ture in the past couple of weeks have historic implications. Accelerated budget creation and approval, game changing tax reform, long over-due welfare reform, and many other “foundation building” measures… all primary ingredients to a financially sound and optimistic future for Michi-gan.

Building a budget, from the ground up, and having it balanced without gimmicks, stealing future revenues for current expenses, and avoid-ing the reliance on one-time, deficit contributing, Federal money is a dramatic departure from our recent past experience. But possibly more impor-tant is getting it done in record time AND setting the stage for a second year “projected” budget with similar soundness. The freedom this pro-cess creates by removing budget anxiety and uncertainty will allow even more time to con-centrate on further government reform and improving return on taxpayer money.

The tax reform bill we sent to Governor Snyder is another important building block to securing fi-nancial strength for our state. The combined bud-get and tax reform bills admittedly challenge the status quo and comfort zones of virtually every citizen and interest group. In other words, there is enough tough stuff in these measures for every-one to find something they don’t like.

School funding and pension tax reform are the most obvious areas where people have weighed in with resistance and passionate objection. It is

worthy to note that in our office we have tracked letters and emails we have received in these two areas in particular. If we adjust for the forwarded “form” letters received and only count person-ally generated communications the tally, for both school funding and tax reform, favors the opposi-tion side…but not by much. It has been inspiring to hear from seniors, many with very modest pen-sions, share they don’t necessarily ‘like’ the idea of the state taxing parts of their retirement income but they understood the unfairness of the current system…and wanted to be part of fixing it.

The tax reform bill and school aid budget were both impacted by public sentiments. Adjust-ments were made to the former to allow a phas-ing in period. There are ongoing efforts to finds ways to close some of the gap in school funding while sustaining necessary pressure on bend-ing the cost curve of education to reflect current economic realities. We expect the May Revenue Estimating Conference will confirm Michigan’s economy is, indeed, in a strong recovery mode. There is widespread agreement any allocation of additional revenue will first include consideration for education funding. For full transparency, I am actively promoting opportunities for increased per pupil funding thru special incentives. These will require bold action of local boards and would help achieve measurable, sustainable cost reforms.

Welfare reforms are nearly relegated to foot-notes when compared to tax and budget legisla-tion. However, these long overdue changes are

important first steps in moving us away from what has become a “progres-sively dependent” system to one that encourages initia-tive, values work, and preserves pre-cious resources for those with the most need. Mea-sures include tough sanctions for abuse, higher standards

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for proving eligibility and U.S. citizenship, and expanding the number of hours people can work and still qualify for assistance. For example, turn-ing down legitimate offers for employment will now treated as an “offense” and can result in loss or reduced aid.

Much has been accomplished in four months…and much is yet to be done. We will now focus our attention to economy drag-ging regulations and other obstacles pre-venting Michigan from regaining its promi-nence in wealth building and economic opportunity for all. Though there are many very real signs we have turned the corner, key metrics like unemployment remain unacceptably too high. So we press ahead.

Serving with and for you,

Representa-tive Mike Shirkey, Michigan State House, 65th District


weLComeNew Members

thaNk yoURenewing Members1-5 YEARsAngels Around YouAunt Millie’s BakeriesAvon Products, Inc.Aymond, Lozier & Arora, PLCFireKeepers CasinoHistorical Tours and StorytellingIndian Trails, Inc. dba Michigan FlyerJTS Entertainment LLC

6-10 YEARsAnderson Distributing Company/Peerless Importing Co.Brad A. Double, D.C.ERA Reardon RealtyFritz Advertising Co.Jackson Canvas CompanyM&G Kitchen and Bath

ASK Mike Maddox3125 Sovereign Drive Suite 9B Lansing(877) 275-4275www.JustAsk.netIT ConsultingASK is a full service IT products and services provider, serving the needs of Michigan businesses for over 17 years. Specializing in the needs of small to medium businesses.

Free 2 Run Dale LundbergP. O . Box 533(517) 914-3737www.Free2Run5K.comNon-Profit OrganizationsThe Free To Run 5K is a charity run headed by Spring Arbor Free Methodist Youth Group with the purpose to raise funds to abolish modern day slavery. For more information on modern day slavery, please visit: www.notforsalecampaign.org

L & L Machine & Tool, Inc.Law Office of Richard C Mills, PLCNorthwest RefusePinson Urology and Continence Center P.C.Salco EngineeringSalon Breathe & SpaSusan Paris, Paris Agency LLCVolunteer Energy Services

testimonials“I mentioned to Melissa that I was hav-

ing a problem with the state processing my license. Mindy called Representative Shirkey and that same day, Governor Sny-der’s office called at 4:55 p.m. Within four working days, my license was approved. It is unbelievable. Thank you!”

~David Kelly, A P Motors, Inc.

About a month after speaking on Good Morning Greater Jackson, a very nice couple who wanted a bathroom remodeled contacted me. One of their family members had heard the show and recommended my business after hearing of their need to re-model. At the completion of the job they were very satisfied with the work and I am happy to report that I have a long term customer with them, other family members and friends. Thank you Jackson Chamber!

~Jeremy Milks, Jeremy Milks Construction

We have been in the Chamber golf out-ing for many, many years and as nice as it is to potentially meet new people …we do not use it for that. Instead we use this oppor-tunity to strengthen our relationships with our community businesses that we already partner with. We look at that as the biggest value to the outing.

The outing gives us the ability to see our partners more on a personal basis, giving us a chance to enjoy the company instead of business all the time. We will continue to play because it works for us. It has been a good success for our company and it gives us the opportunity to showcase our mar-keting pieces too.

~Brad McEldowney, American Office Solutions

The Good Morning!Greater Jackson opportunity through the Chamber ex-ceeded my expectations. The value for my company translated into calls received the week before and the week after, which led to 3 significant opportunities. Susan was exceptional as she prepared me for my ’first time’ by making sure my message was well thought out. Ric and Greg are naturals at helping things flow well while on-air. I have already recommended this opportu-nity to friends that are business owners.

~Mark Schissler, A Butler 4 U

Jackson Oven Supply Dennis Cones3507 Wayland Drive(517) 784-9660www.JacksonOven.comOven SuppliersJackson Oven Supply is a supplier of industrial equipment, parts and service generally associated with the manufacturing and finishing industries. We collectively have over 35 years of experience with the design, manufacturing and installation of industrial equipment. Our vast knowledge of the equipment, design, operation, and problem solving will benefit you as our customer.

Little Rainbows, LLC Allison Trapp209 E. Washington Street(517) 796-1000www.LittleRainbows.netChild Care / PreschoolLittle Rainbows Preschool & Daycare offers complete preschool and daycare services in Downtown Jackson & Leslie. We provide before and after school care services for infants and toddlers. We also have summer programs. Our highly experienced and dedicated educators provide quality, friendly, and professional services at reasonable rates.

10 - 20 YEARsAvis Rent A CarBlue Cross Blue Shield of MichiganTripp’s Auto Shop and Collision Center, Inc

26-30 YEARsRE/MAX Mid MichiganEstate & Pension Plans, Inc.


Q: what is a Chamber Buyer’s guide? A: A resource and tool for Jackson County Businesses

As a service to the members of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce all members

in good standing are included in the annual print Buyers Guide & Membership Directory. The intent when produced and distributed is to provide Mem-bers with a resource for doing business in Jackson County. The directory includes: A complete listing of Members of the Chamber listed by category as well as alphabetically; A listing of local, state and government offices and legislative resource guide; Member 2 Member discounts and partner sav-ings programs; Local demographic statistics and information; Overview of Chamber events and sponsorship opportunities; Community resource / relocation guide

How do I insure my business/organization is included in the 2012 Buyers guide & Direc-tory?

All members of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce in good standing are included in the Buyers Guide and Directory. Members will receive a form around August 1st asking for verification and/or correction of the information listed in the Chamber database. Members are asked to review

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information and return a signed copy to the Cham-ber Office by mid-August. If the Chamber does not receive a signed copy the assumption is that the in-formation is accurate. To maintain the integrity and accuracy of the information it is important to advise the Chamber if your organiza-tions name, contact or ad-dress will be changing in 2012.

Advertising in the 2012 Buyers guide & Directory

The production of this Buyers Guide and Di-rectory is made possible through the support of members through mem-bership and advertising support. Working with

J a c k s o n P u b l i s h -ing, the C h a m -ber is able to offer members a variety of opportunities within the publica-tion to showcase your business. Beginning in July Members can reserve and purchase the ad size of their choice with Jackson Pub-lishing. Ad space is limited; most ad packages also include an ad in the December edition of Jack-son Magazine where the Buyers Guide is also produced.

When will I receive the 2012 Buyer’s guide & Direc-tory?

The 2012 Buyers Guide & Directory will be included in the December issue of Jack-son Magazine, Distributed at Annual Meeting & Mailed to the primary individual at each

Member Business/organization. Additional copies are available at the Chamber office. The Chamber staff encourages businesses and organizations to provide copies to managers, sales representatives and prospective employees.

What will the 2012 Buyers guide & Direc-tory have…?

The Buyer’s Guide & Directory is designed to be a tool and resource to your business for your use. Is there information that would be help-ful to have in the Buyer’s Guide & Directory? Please contact Melissa Jaak-kola with any thoughts and suggestions. ([email protected], 517.782.8221)


141 South Jackson St. • Jackson, MI 49201

Documents

LoCaL resoUrCes goVerNmeNt reLatioNs CHAMBER Jackson …€¦ · eeCU’s longest standing and newest members, help eeCU celebrate 75 years of service! 2 Chamber News July / aug