Supporting children at an early age is critically important to creating conditions that prepare them for long-term success and independence. By investing in high-quality early childhood education and school readiness programs, the

W.K. Kellogg Foundation and its community partners are not only helping to lift up our most vulnerable children, but also boost our local and state economies by ensuring that we have an educated and skilled workforce that is ready to compete in the 21st century global economy.

269.962.4076Monday–Friday 9am–5pmOne Riverwalk Centre, Suite 3A, 34 West Jackson Street, Battle Creek, MI 49017www.BattleCreek.org

The Battle Creek Area Chamber

of Commerce will provide the

best in member services and

aggressive business advocacy

to create a climate for employer

growth and a prosperous

community for all.

missionstatement

ourvision

insighta publication of the Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce November–December 2012

eye opener breakfast / business expoTuesday, November 13thInvesting in Early Childhood Educationis an Investment in Battle Creek’s Future

Join the Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce and W.K. Kellogg Foundation on Tuesday, November 13, 2012, at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Auditorium, as we learn more about W.K. Kellogg Foundation and the investment in Battle Creek’searly childhood education.

Presenting on Tuesday, November 13, 2012 will be Reggie LaGrand. Reggie has been with the W.K. Kellogg Foundation since 2007 and is Program Officer for Battle Creek

Programming. In this role, he is responsible for a wide range of program-related activities, including strategy design and implementation, proposal review, site visits, research, and

evaluation. He develops, maintains, and connects relationships, both internal and external, that support the overall strategic framework for the organization, and for program efforts within the community. He also serves as a member of the Michigan team.

Prior to joining the Foundation, Reggie worked for 25 years in juvenile detention and public education. A licensed social worker, he earned his master’s degree in social work from Western Michigan University and his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Olivet College in Michigan. Reggie served as a national trainer and consultant for the National Juvenile Detention Association (NJDA), Center for Research and Professional Development in East Lansing, Michigan, and as north regional vice president on the NJDA Executive Committee.

Save the date! December 11, 2012 — Eye Opener Breakfast / Business Expo.Business expo starts at 7:00 a.m. with the program begins at 7:30 a.m. atMarine Corps Center, 101 Base Avenue, Battle Creek, MI 49015.Check www.battlecreek.org for updated information.

welcomenew members

The Battle Creek Area Chamber of

Commerce is the premier business

association whose influence,

solutions, and networks drive

economic growth in the Battle

Creek area, enabling businesses

and people to prosper in an ever-

changing economy.

Pennfield Shell Food Mart

Battle Creek Christian School

American Red Cross– Calhoun County

WorkSquared

Dally Tire Company

Starr Battle Creek

2 | Visit us online at BattleCreek.org

chamber corner

Show and Tell Kara E. Beer, Executive Director

Do you remember the days of “show and tell?” We do, and we want to ask you to play along.

As part of our new strategic direction and in an effort to better serve our members, the Chamber would like

to learn more about our member businesses and help tell the amazing stories you have out there. So, we are calling upon you to invite us to meet you and your business.

This is an opportunity to host your Chamber for an informal “show and tell.” Take us on a tour of your operations, let us snap a few photos, a short video testimonial, and give us the scoop on your business. We are looking to hear your successes, your challenges, your history, and ways that we can be a better tool for your business. At the end of our visit, we will post pictures and share the fascinating facts and business stories we gather – helping to promote you and your business in our social media, website, and other Chamber communications.

Whether you’re a start-up, a second stage business, or a lifelong business, we want to hear from you. Contact the Chamber office at (269) 962-4076 today to invite us out for a Chamber “Show and Tell” visit!

All my best!

Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce StaffKara E. Beer – Executive DirectorDebbie Baker – Executive Assistant / Office ManagerKristi Trader – Manager of LeadershipJennifer Blank – AccountantSara Macon – Program Coordinator

Chamber Refund & Cancellation Policy Please visit www.battlecreek.org for our complete policy details.

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Thursday, November 1Professional Development Committee, 9:00 a.m., Chamber Office.

Tuesday, November 6Election Day, Voting time: 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, November 7Military Affairs Committee Meeting, 8:00 a.m.,Kellogg Community College.

Thursday, November 8Business Leaders Luncheon,11:30 a.m., Location TBD.

Tuesday, November 13Eye Opener Breakfast Program, 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m., WK Kellogg Foundation (One Michigan Avenue East).

Wednesday, November 14Silent Observer Committee, 8:00 a.m., Commerce Pointe.

Wednesday, November 14Ambassador Committee, 12:00 p.m., Location TBD.

Saturday, November 17Ribbon Cutting Ceremony,9:00 a.m., Navy Operational Center.

Saturday, November 17Christmas Parade, 5:40 p.m.

Thursday, November 22 Chamber office closed.

Black Friday, November 23Chamber office closed.

Wednesday, November 28Business Networking Committee,4:00 p.m., Chamber office.

Tuesday, December 4Business Leaders Luncheon,11:30 a.m., Location TBD.

Thursday, December 6Professional Development Committee, 9:00 a.m., Chamber Office.

Friday, December 7Government Affairs, 8:00 a.m., Chamber Office.

Tuesday, December 11Eye Opener Breakfast Program, 7:00 a.m., Location TBD.

Wednesday, December 12Ambassador Committee,12:00 p.m., Location TBD.

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday — December 24, 25, 26Chamber Closed for Holiday.

Monday, December 31Chamber Closed for Holiday.

Tuesday, Wednesday— January 1, 2Chamber Closed for Holiday.

November – December

Newsletter design by:

GreenStreetADVERTISING & MARKETING

269.963.9922 | greenstreetmkg.com

Edward Jones‘s Brent Fast celebrated his “New Office Renovations” on August 28. Senior Branch Office Administrator, Paula Moomey-Ivey, and Carol Rutkoskie, Branch Support Staff also attended the event. They invite you to call (269) 965-8531 or stop by anytime for assistance.

Southwest Michigan Federal Credit Union(Columbia Ave location) celebrated on August 15, for being one of the largest community charters granted this year by the NCUA. Contact them at (269) 964-9704 or visit www.smifcu.org for more information.

Southwest Michigan Federal Credit Union (SMIFCU) celebrated the opening of their “New Office”on September 13. It is now in the Hart-Dole-Inouye Federal Center. This branch can be reached by calling (269) 964-9704 or for more information visit www.smifcu.org.

Kellogg Community College and Goodwill Industries of Central Michigan’s Heartland opened their new offices downtown on Sept. 20. To reach KCC call (269) 565-2190, or visit www.kellogg.edu. Contact Goodwill Industries at (269) 964-9455, www.goodwillcmh.org.

Buffalo Wild Wings celebrated their “Grand Opening” on September 11 and is located in Lakeview Square Mall. Contact them at (269) 979-9464, visit www.buffalowildwings.com, or check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bwwbattlecreek.

Chamber Insight November – December 2012 | 3

is only one of the many aviation careers you can train for at WMU’s College of Aviation. Our dedicated group of professional faculty will ensure that students enrolled in the maintenance technology, administration or flight science degree programs, or those students taking advantage of our air traffic collegiate training, will master the skills necessary to open career opportunities nationwide and beyond.

Visit us at the W.K. Kellogg Airport in Battle Creek for a tour. See how you can take the smart ride and start experiencing life beyond expectations in an aviation career.

Experience lifebeyond expectations.

Air TrafficController

Science &Administration

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FlightScience

237 North Helmer Rd. Battle Creekwmich.edu/aviation269.964.6375

Aviation Flight Science

4 | Visit us online at BattleCreek.org

Oh the Places We Will Go... in 2012-2013

Connection through InvolvementNetworking opportunities, professional development, community involvement, recognition and regional exposure — whatever your plans dictate — you can launch them by attending Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce Programs & Events.

We host annual, quarterly, and monthly programs and series to ensure you get the results you want and the tools you need to succeed.

Eye Opener Breakfast Program (10 Months)These programs provide opportunities for members to meet, mingle, and do business with each other. The Chamber’s eye opener breakfast program consists of informational speakers presenting on timely topics of interest to our business members as well as a business to business expo.

Business Blind Date (Quarterly)A business blind date: exciting, open, and daring and without complications or uncontrolled risk. In this concept we gather 15 to 25 peopleat a hot spot to be surprised and inspired from each other. There are several starting points for these blind dates.Sign up for lunch and we will arrange for you to have lunch with potential new clients, friendships, board members or more.

Business Leader Luncheons (Monthly)These programs bring recognized speakers covering a broad range of business-related topics from economic trends and business success stories, to the latest management and leadership techniques to the podium here in Battle Creek. These unique opportunities are held at various locations.

Civic Leader Tour (October)This is a day-long tour of all local military and governmental installations. This is a rare opportunity to see first-hand what our local military and defense activities provide to Southwest Michigan and how they support our national and local economy.

Armed Forces Day Luncheon (May)During the event, the Military Affairs Committee will present the General of the Army Omar N. Bradley Service Awards along with several other distinguished acknowledgements. We will also be presenting a Community Service Award to an individual who has provided outstanding service to our community.

Chamber Mixers “Business After Hours” (One Per Month)Every month, the Chamber hosts an after-hours networking event designed for members to meet and build relationships with businesspeople from small, mid-size and large Battle Creek Area companies and organizations representing a variety of industries. The events usually take place between 5:00 and 7:00 p.m. at various locations on Thursday’s.

Government Affairs Breakfast (Quarterly)This is your chance for Chamber members and their employees to establish relationships with key decision makers and voice opinions on issues moving forward on a local, state, and federal level.

Ribbon Cuttings (Ongoing)A ribbon cutting is a great way to introduce your business to the community and your fellow Chamber members. It can be as simple, informal, extravagant or ceremonious as you want it to be. It’s your event and should reflect your company’s values and personality.

Chamber Insight November – December 2012 | 5

Illustrations by Dr. Seuss; “Oh, the Places You’ll Go”

New Member Orientation Mixers (Quarterly)Begin your involvement with the Chamber by networking with other new members!Free for new members in good standing to attend (in first year of membership)

Golf Outing (June)Golf has always been known as the top sport for mixing business and pleasure. Playing a great round on the golf course with clients, coworkers and business leaders is an invaluable asset for men and women in business. An opportunity for you to build business relationships! Opportunities for face to face time with important clients, introducing yourself to competitors and possibly gaining a little name recognition if you play well.

Education Station Webinars (Quarterly)

These webinars bring recognized speakers covering a broad range of business-related topics from economic trends and business success stories, to the latest management and leadership techniques to your computer.

Sophomore Future Track (Collaboration with BCCF in Spring)The purpose of the event was to give young people a taste of a future career in one of their interest areas, and for students to understand the steps needed to reach that career goal. Students from Battle Creek Central, Harper Creek, Lakeview, Pennfield, Calhoun Christian and St. Philip all participated in theday’s activities.

Educator in the Workplace (August)Have your business host educators in your workplace to help local teachers learn what skills areneeded in today’s workforce.

Pub & Grub Crawl (Winter) Who doesn’t love a good Pub that serves some great Grub? This fun 4 hour event highlights some of Battle Creek’s best spots to grab a bite and a pint, and is a great way for tourists and locals alike to experience the city! Follow me as we hit the streets for a four hour pub & grub crawl. You’ll get to sample some grub and hit up popular drinking spots in Battle Creek.Heck, you might even learn something you never knew about this great city. So bring your friends and enjoy Battle Creek’s Best Pub & Grub Crawl!

We’re GREAT! Video Testimonials (Monthly)See what our happy chamber members have to say about being a part of the Battle Creek Area Chamberof Commerce on a monthly basis.

Public Service Academy (Summer)PSA gives interested participants a glimpse into local and state government. This program is designed to help participants better understand the workings of all levels of government.

Annual Business Excellence Awards (May)An evening affair that will be recognizing the achievements of successful businesses, nonprofits, organizations and industry people in the greater Battle Creek area and the contributions they make to the growth and prosperity of the economy. The slate of awards for 2013 has been updated and will include: Start Up Business of the Year, Small Business of the Year (under 25 employees), Mid-Size Business of the Year (26–50 employees) and Large Business of the Year (51 + employees). This year we are also presenting the Harley Simmons Award, the Battle Creek Area Young Professionals “Battle Creek’s Future 15 Award”, Regional Health Alliance’s “Workplace Wellness Recognition Award”, Nonprofit Alliance at Kellogg Community College’s “Nonprofit Excellence Awards”, and the Urban League of Battle Creek’s “Randall Brock Memorial Award.”

Party Politics (October)The Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce community will get the chance to mingle with political candidates and have their voices heard on several key issues less than a month prior to the November election. The format is that of an “old time” political rally and more than 500 Battle Creek area residents are expected to attend. A mock election will be held for those races with broad interest and participants will get a chance to vote on any statewide proposals. The Chamber will invite all candidates running to participate. Candidates will not give speeches during the event, but will be on hand to talk to voters. At the end of the evening, voting will be tabulated and announced. Cost is $5 at the door. Attendees can enjoy complimentary appetizers and a cash bar.

6 | Visit us online at BattleCreek.org

Black FridayBlack Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, traditionally marked the moment retailers moved into profit, or “the black”.

The nickname is first said to have been used by the Philadelphia police department in 1966 who saw it as a “black” day because of the chaos created by people flocking to shops in search of bargains. The later explanation came about as traders and retailers decided they needed one of their most important shopping days to be seen in a better light. By the early 1980s, the story behind the name had been spun into the current one—that it was the time when retailers who traditionally operated at a financial loss for most of the year start to go into profit.

Adam Davidson, of National Public Radio’s Planet Money, describes Black Friday as a “one-day economic stimulus plan and job-creation program” that is crucial to the American economy. “Billions of dollars, which would otherwise never be spent, make their way into circulation,” he wrote in an article.

In order to ensure that the name doesn’t have a more ominous meaning this year, we encourage you to spend your time and money supporting local Battle Creek area chamber businesses on Black Friday.

Happy Shopping!

75 years Lassen Automotive30 yearsHUB International Insurance Services20 years Drop-In Self-Help Center, Inc.15 years Russell & Associates10 years Albion Paint Spot, Inc.Branch District LibraryFirst Presbyterian ChurchThe Heritage Assisted Living Community5 years Gene NiedzwieckiRussell A. Farrow (U.S.) Inc.

Tom’s Body Shop

Calhoun County Visitors Bureau November – December Event Listing

November• Nov. 1 – Dec. 22: An Olde Fashioned Christmas – Cornwell’s Turkeyville USA• Nov. 2 – 3, 8-10: Sweeny Todd – What-A-Do Theatre• Nov. 10: Road Hawg Classic Run – Air National Guard Base• Nov. 15 –17: MHSAA Volleyball – Kellogg Arena• Nov. 17: Battle Creek Holiday Parade – Downtown Battle Creek• Nov. 17: International Festival of Lights kick off – Downtown Battle Creek• Nov. 26: Marshall Christmas Parade – Downtown Marshall

December• Dec. 8: Brass Band Holiday Concert – W.K. Kellogg Auditorium• Dec. 8 – 9: Candlelight Christmas Walk – Downtown Marshall• Dec. 15: From Holiday to Broadway – W.K. Kellogg Auditorium

Karen Reeves has been a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones Investments

for 13 years and a Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassador since 2008. She has enjoyed staying active in the community and engaging with other business professionals. Community supporters like her helps

make the Chamber what it is today!

NEW! 2012–2013 Committee StructureWant to be seen, be heard, be involved, be informed and belong? We have numerous ways to engage you and your employees. We encourage you and your employees to join a committee of the Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce. Not sure where to begin? No worries, contact the Chamber office to discuss more in detail.

Ambassadors: The Chamber Ambassador Program is the volunteer arm of our organization. They represent the Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce in our community and at Chamber-sponsored events. The ambassadors are dedicated volunteers from diverse businesses through the Battle Creek area. Their mission is to welcome, nurture, and recruit new Chamber members, act as goodwill representatives at Chamber functions, and aid in the support of Chamber members. The Chamber’s goal is to help the Ambassador develop their networking opportunities while volunteering at various Chamber and community functions. Ambassadors serve in a public relations capacity and as a liaison between the Chamber staff and member businesses as our official “hosts”.

Military Affairs: This committee recognizes the significance of the military presence in our community. Its goal is to promote and foster excellent relations between the business sector and the military

Activities Committees:

• Business Networking Committee: This committee will plan, develop, organize and implement the following program/special events. Business Blind Date, Chamber Mixers/Business after Hours, Pub & Grub, and the Chamber golf outing.

• Member 2 Member Committee: This committee is charged with planning, organizing, and implementing the following programs/special events. Member2 Member discount program, Membership drive, New Member Orientation Mixers (Quarterly), and promotion of all ribbon cuttings.

• Government Affairs Committee: This committee is charged with the planning, organizing, and implementing of the following programs/special events:Public Service Academy, Government Affairs Breakfasts (Quarterly), and Party Politics.

• Professional Development Committee: This committee is charged with the planning, organizing, and implementation of the following programs/special events: Eye Opener Breakfast/Business Expo and the Business Leader Luncheon Series.

• Workplace Education Committee: This committee is charged with the planning, organization, and implementation of the following programs/special events: Education webinars, Sophomore Future Track, and Educators in the Workplace.

• Marketing and Awareness Committee: This committee is charged with the planning, organization, and implementation of the following activities: video testimonials, membership application, membership publications as well as the website.

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*APR=Annual Percentage Rate. 1.99% APR good for new vehicles up to 48 months financing. Rate effective 10/15/2012 and subject to change at any time. Rate shown may not apply to every borrower, other rates and terms available. Offer does not apply to refinancing of existing KCFCU loans. Federally insured by the NCUA

Chamber Insight November – December 2012 | 7

PRSRT. STD.US POSTAGE

PAIDBATTLE CREEK, MIPERMIT NO. 619

insightBattle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce

One Riverwalk Centre, Suite 3A34 West Jackson StreetBattle Creek, Michigan 49017

Save the DateTuesday, December 11, 2012Eye Opener Breakfast Program/Business ExpoBusiness Expo 7:00 a.m.Program begins 7:30 a.m.

Marine Corps Reserve Center101 Base Avenue, Battle Creek, MI 49015

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Check www.battlecreek.org for updated information.

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