PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Jackson, MI 49201 141 ......Allen Spiess, Jr.* Craig Tapley Jan Taylor...

6
2007 January Events Upcoming Events Martin Luther King Diversity Breakfast January 12 Gene Davis & Sons Banquet & Convention Center Business After Hours January 18 Commonwealth Associates Good Morning!Greater Jackson January 23 Bella Notte Ristorante 98th Annual Meeting January 25 Jackson Community College Field House Membership Orientation Lunch January 26 Chamber Offices (141 S. Jackson Street) January 2007 Vol. 5 No.1 141 South Jackson Street (P.O. Box 889) Jackson, MI 49201 Phone: (517) 782-8221 (Fax: (517) 780-3688 Website: www.gjcc.org PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Jackson, MI 49201 Permit #139 2007 Board of Directors Officers Teri Ogg* Chairman Aaron Boatin* Secretary Robert Smith* Treasurer John Crist* Past Chairman Paul Buchholz* Vice Chairman Betty Overton- Atkins Carolyn Anderson Steve Czarnecki H. Ronald Griffith* Bart Hawley Henry Jones Andy Mercer Bob Michaels Tony Mira Dale Moretz* Daniel Phelan Bruce Rasher Donn Roberts Nancy Robidoux William Ross Allen Spiess, Jr.* Craig Tapley Jan Taylor Scott Theiss Randy Treacher Susan L. Milhoan, APR* President *Executive Committee Directors Chamber Staff Susan L. Milhoan, APR President [email protected] Kara Beer Program Manager/ Manager of Special Events [email protected] Christina Stephenson Membership Services Coordinator [email protected] Teresa Smith Information Specialist [email protected] paper goods, office supplies, profes- sional services, fil- ing cabinets, tables, a coffee maker, microwave and other office essen- tials from members. The office, now fully operational, was designed to serve as a resource for members. The facility will be open most days from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and offers a growing reference library and free wireless internet access. With the move came a new logo (see related story on page 9), new e-mail addresses and a new fax number. These are shown on page 12. For more information, stop by the office or call 517/782- 8221. On December 7, the Chamber officially opened the doors of the new office space it shares with the Jackson County Convention and Visitors Bureau at 141South Jackson Street. Almost 200 Chamber members attended the special Business After Hours, bringing gifts and well wishes. The newly redecorated offices are spacious and con- venient, with three conference rooms and handsome staff quarters. The main conference room, lobby and front offices were furnished courtesy of The Empire Group. Two addi- tional offices were furnished with items donated by Lally, Cummings, Palmer & Patch. Chairs in another conference room were donated by Great Northern Sentry. The event was catered by Sam's Club with additional items donated by Gordon Food Service. During the course of the evening, the Chamber received As if the business world were not funny and exciting enough, the Economic Club has chosen a circus theme for the Chamber's 98th Annual Meeting. The event, which will introduce the recipient's of the Small Business Leader of the Year and the ATHENA Award, is scheduled for 5:15 p.m. on Thursday, January 25 at the Jackson Community College Field House. Sponsorship and individual tickets for the event are still available and include dinner, beverages and the ultimate networking experience. Sponsorship ranges from $250 to $1500. Individual tickets are $49 each ($55 after January 21). Registration will begin at 5:15 p.m. with dinner and the program getting underway shortly thereafter. For reserva- tions, contact Kara Beer at the Chamber (517/782-8221) or by e-mail at [email protected]. Business News South Jackson Street Office Operational Chamber Establishes New Location 98th Annual Meeting "Under the Big Top" Annual MLK Breakfast Jan. 12 Middle school students throughout Jackson County have been busy in recent months attempting to make a positive impact on the community. That was the challenge issued by the Martin Luther King Breakfast Committee and it has been met by 11 participating middle schools that will be show- cased at the annual breakfast at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, January 12 at Gene Davis and Sons Banquet and Convention Center (3575 Francis Street). The breakfast will include a videotape presentation on the work done by participating students. Projects -- each of which was identified and undertaken based on student input -- range from efforts to understand other students to creating a teen center. Many of the students will be given an opportunity later in the Spring to participate in Challenge Day, a national program designed to help students recognize and elimi- nate social injustice. Challenge Day sponsors include the Jackson County Community Foundation, Consumers Energy Foundation and United Way. Proceeds from the breakfast will also be directed to underwriting the program. Tickets are $15 each and registration will begin at 7:00 a.m. with breakfast and the program getting underway at 7:30 a.m. Sponsorships are still available. For reserva- tions or more information, contact Kara Beer at the Chamber (517/782-8221) or by e-mail at [email protected].

Transcript of PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Jackson, MI 49201 141 ......Allen Spiess, Jr.* Craig Tapley Jan Taylor...

Page 1: PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Jackson, MI 49201 141 ......Allen Spiess, Jr.* Craig Tapley Jan Taylor Scott Theiss Randy Treacher Susan L. Milhoan, APR* President *Executive Committee

2007January Events

Upcoming EventsMartin Luther King Diversity Breakfast

January 12Gene Davis & Sons Banquet & Convention Center

Business After HoursJanuary 18

Commonwealth Associates

Good Morning!Greater JacksonJanuary 23

Bella Notte Ristorante

98th Annual MeetingJanuary 25

Jackson Community College Field House

Membership Orientation LunchJanuary 26

Chamber Offices (141 S. Jackson Street)

January 2007 Vol . 5 No.1

141 South Jackson Street (P.O. Box 889)Jackson, MI 49201Phone: (517) 782-8221 (Fax: (517) 780-3688Website: www.gjcc.org

PRSRT STDU.S. Postage

PAIDJackson, MI

49201Permit #139

2007Board of Directors

Officers Teri Ogg*Chairman

Aaron Boatin*Secretary

Robert Smith*Treasurer

John Crist*Past Chairman

Paul Buchholz*Vice Chairman

Betty Overton-Atkins

Carolyn Anderson

Steve Czarnecki

H. Ronald Griffith*

Bart Hawley

Henry Jones

Andy Mercer

Bob Michaels

Tony Mira

Dale Moretz*

Daniel Phelan

Bruce Rasher

Donn Roberts

Nancy Robidoux

William Ross

Allen Spiess, Jr.*

Craig Tapley

Jan Taylor

Scott TheissRandy Treacher

Susan L. Milhoan, APR*President

*Executive Committee

Directors

Chamber StaffSusan L. Milhoan, APR

[email protected]

Kara BeerProgram Manager/

Manager of Special [email protected]

Christina StephensonMembership Services Coordinator

[email protected]

Teresa SmithInformation Specialist

[email protected]

paper goods, office supplies, profes-sional services, fil-ing cabinets, tables, a coffee maker, microwave and other office essen-tials from members. The office, now fully operational, was designed to serve as a resource for members. The facility will be open most days from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and offers a growing reference library and free wireless internet access. With the move came a new logo (see related story on page 9), new e-mail addresses and a new fax number. These are shown on page 12. For more information, stop by the office or call 517/782-8221.

On December 7, the Chamber officially opened the doors of the new office space it shares with the Jackson County Convention and Visitors Bureau at 141South Jackson Street. Almost 200 Chamber members attended the special Business After Hours, bringing gifts and well wishes. The newly redecorated offices are spacious and con-venient, with three conference rooms and handsome staff quarters. The main conference room, lobby and front offices were furnished courtesy of The Empire Group. Two addi-tional offices were furnished with items donated by Lally, Cummings, Palmer & Patch. Chairs in another conference room were donated by Great Northern Sentry. The event was catered by Sam's Club with additional items donated by Gordon Food Service. During the course of the evening, the Chamber received

As if the business world were not funny and exciting enough, the Economic Club has chosen a circus theme for the Chamber's 98th Annual Meeting. The event, which will introduce the recipient's of the Small Business Leader of the Year and the ATHENA Award, is scheduled for 5:15 p.m. on Thursday, January 25 at the Jackson Community College Field House. Sponsorship and individual tickets for the event are still available and include dinner, beverages and the ultimate networking experience. Sponsorship ranges from $250 to $1500. Individual tickets are $49 each ($55 after January 21). Registration will begin at 5:15 p.m. with dinner and the program getting underway shortly thereafter. For reserva-tions, contact Kara Beer at the Chamber (517/782-8221) or by e-mail at [email protected].

Business NewsSouth Jackson Street Office Operational

Chamber Establishes New Location

98th Annual Meeting"Under the Big Top"

Annual MLK Breakfast Jan. 12 Middle school students throughout Jackson County have been busy in recent months attempting to make a positive impact on the community. That was the challenge issued by the Martin Luther King Breakfast Committee and it has been met by 11 participating middle schools that will be show-cased at the annual breakfast at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, January 12 at Gene Davis and Sons Banquet and Convention Center (3575 Francis Street). The breakfast will include a videotape presentation on the work done by participating students. Projects -- each of which was identified and undertaken based on student input -- range from efforts to understand other students to creating a teen center. Many of the students will be given an opportunity later in the Spring to participate in Challenge Day, a national program designed to help students recognize and elimi-nate social injustice. Challenge Day sponsors include the Jackson County Community Foundation, Consumers Energy Foundation and United Way. Proceeds from the breakfast will also be directed to underwriting the program. Tickets are $15 each and registration will begin at 7:00 a.m. with breakfast and the program getting underway at 7:30 a.m. Sponsorships are still available. For reserva-tions or more information, contact Kara Beer at the Chamber (517/782-8221) or by e-mail at [email protected].

Page 2: PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Jackson, MI 49201 141 ......Allen Spiess, Jr.* Craig Tapley Jan Taylor Scott Theiss Randy Treacher Susan L. Milhoan, APR* President *Executive Committee

President’s Corner

Outpouring of Support is Overwhelming

2 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce January 2007 January 2007 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce 11

Question of the Month . . .Q. My company is a Chamber member, but I am way too busy to participate. Can I send a representative from my company to Chamber committee meetings or events?A. Once a company becomes a member of the Chamber, all employees of that company become members as well. While you may be too busy to take advantage of Chamber committee or network-ing opportunities, there may be several people within your organization who are more available. Too often the primary company contact assumes that he/she has nothing to gain by participating in Chamber committees or activities. By sharing the opportunity with a colleague, many company leaders have found the experience to be personally and pro-fessionally rewarding. Chamber involvement helps build leadership skills, provides exposure to new contacts and helps individuals improve and grow their networks. Additionally, since all company employees are Chamber members, all of them are also eligible to take advantage of Chamber training programs and benefits. The most obvious benefit to make available to all employees is the Member to Member discount card honored at almost four dozen Chamber member businesses. The cost is just $1 per employee.

Welcome New MembersA&W Blake4885 W. Michigan AvenueJackson, MI 49201517/750-1998

A&W Blake is a 38-year-old third generation family owned company specializing in heat-ing and air conditioning.

All Pro Realty & Property Management4030 Lansing AvenueJackson, MI 49202517/782-4663

All-Pro Realty & Property Management is a friendly, professional real estate agen-cy specializing in Property Management. Our dedicated sales agent will find just the right apartment or house for you. Call us today!

Jackson Automatic Sprinkler347 East MainSpring Arbor, MI 49283517/750-3136

Proudly serving Southern Michigan for 50 years, Jackson Automatic Sprinkler's primary scope of work is the installa-tion of automatic fire protec-tion sprinkler systems.

Jerri Munn Photography3125 Wright CourtJackson, MI 49203517/414-9865

With more than 24 years of experience in photography of all types, experts are available to document events and cre-ate lasting memories.

Shaunta PattonPost Office Box 1791Jackson, MI 49204-1791517/414-5538Individual

Superior Filters, Inc.Post Office Box 395Spring Arbor, MI 49204-0395866/734-0100

Superior Filters is a manu-facturer of high quality liquid filtration and straining equip-ment. The company's prod-ucts are designed to filter any-thing from water to petroleum products.

When the Chamber recently encouraged members to donate an office supply item to the organization as it re-established itself, the response was overwhelming. Almost immediately after the Chamber sent an e-mail seeking donations, furniture, appliances, office supplies, food, professional services and all sorts of business essentials started showing up at the new offices. Staff, dividing their time between the old office and the new during the first

weeks of December, routinely found boxes of supplies had been delivered. Few included any indication of who had brought them, so thanking the donors became a challenge. Speaking on behalf of the Chamber Board, we are so very

grateful for the assistance provided by our membership. The decision to operate independently was made to assure that the organization continues to focus its energies and talents on serving the membership and creating a positive business environment. The generous outpouring of support demonstrated in recent weeks is ample evidence that the action is endorsed by our membership. The Chamber Board is determined to maintain the organization's track record of success, and with the help of our members, it will continue to provide strong leadership for Jackson's business future. Thank you.

Susan L. Milhoan APR

Constructed by Cunningham Construction Co

Jackson Water Treatment Roof Renovation

What Does Being a Chamber Member Mean to Me?

Get the most out of your Chamber investment by encouragiing other busineses to become members. To recommend a business for membership, simply call the Chamber at 517/782-8221.

To Greg Walker, co-owner of Modern Machine Tool, Chamber membership provides him with another connection to the commu-nity. The company, a member of the Chamber since 1941, sells cutoff systems and related equipment throughout the world, while main-taining its headquarters in Jackson. "Being a member of the Chamber provides us the opportunity to promote the community where we live and work, as well as a chance to network with other business. Attracting good employees is key in any business. The leadership provided by our chamber has advanced the image of Jackson improving not only our business cli-mate but also the quality of life. "

- 6 Branches

- Over 30 ATM’s

- Member-Owned

- Community Minded

- Financial Education

- Business Services

- Consumer Loans

- Mortgage & Construction Loans

- Home Equity Loans

- Competitive Rates & Terms

MembershipService

Respect

Chamber Members Eligible for Membership

Page 3: PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Jackson, MI 49201 141 ......Allen Spiess, Jr.* Craig Tapley Jan Taylor Scott Theiss Randy Treacher Susan L. Milhoan, APR* President *Executive Committee

This spring the Chamber Ambassadors will be networking even more than normal. The committee has created a special event that combines dining, networking and fund raising. The first Ambassador Restaurant Rally is scheduled for 5-8 p.m. on Thursday, March 15. For $20, attendees will enjoy a sampling of signature foods and special beverage prices while visiting as many as 12 different local restaurants and taverns. Patrons may elect to stay in a single location, but may attempt to visit all the participating establishments during the rally. One ticket admission gains entry to all the locations. The Ambassadors created the event as a Chamber network-ing and fund raising event during a month when many local resi-dents begin to feel the effects of "cabin fever." Attendees will be provided with identification bracelets and listings of participating businesses. They may start the evening at the location of their choice. Many will be within walking distance, while others may require transportation. "We wanted to create an event that everyone could enjoy and that would showcase Jackson's exceptional dining venues," said Ambassador Chair Camille Soles. "Since the price is rea-sonable, we think the evening will be well attended and become a popular annual event." Tickets are $20 each and are available from Ambassadors or

10 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce January 2007 January 2007 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce 3

Member News

Calendar of EventsJanuary

Jan. 3 8:00 a.m. Membership Committee Chamber Offices Jan. 3 4:15 p.m. Council of Festivals Chamber Offices Jan. 5 7:30 a.m. Legislative Committee Chamber Offices Jan. 8 9:00 a.m. ATHENA Selection Committee Chamber Offices Jan. 8 4:00 p.m. Golf Committee Chamber Offices Jan. 9 4:15 p.m. Leadership Academy Committee Chamber Offices Jan. 10 7:30 a.m. Executive Committee Chamber Offices Jan. 11 7:30 a.m. Image Committee Chamber Offices Jan. 12 7:30 a.m. Martin Luther King Diversity Breakfast Gene Davis & Sons Banquet Ctr. Jan. 12 Noon Ambassador Committee SCSECU Jan. 15 11:00 a.m. Sister City Committee Chamber Offices Jan. 16 7:30 a.m. Chamber BOD Bella Notte Ristorante Jan. 16 11:30 a.m. Convention & Visitors Bureau BOD Chamber Offices Jan. 18 7:30 a.m. Leadership Academy Chamber Offices Jan. 18 5:00 p.m. Business After Hours Commonwealth Associates, Inc. Jan. 19 7:30 a.m. Economic Club Committee Chamber Offices Jan. 23 7:30 a.m. Good Morning!Greater Jackson Bella Notte Ristorante Jan. 23 Noon JAXPO Committee Chamber Offices Jan. 25 5:15 p.m. 98th Annual Chamber Meeting Field House Jackson Community College Jan. 26 Noon Member Orientation Lunch Chamber Offices

Ambassadors Orchestrate Unique Winter Event

First Restaurant Rally Planned for March 15by contacting the Chamber. Only 300 tickets will be sold. Establishments interested in participating in the event should contact the Chamber. Each will be provided with special signage and will be included in all advance publicity. For more information on the event, to become a sponsor, participating business or to purchase tickets, contact Christina Stephenson at [email protected] or at the Chamber (517/782-8221).

This fall, Judy Smith of Schafer Dry Cleaners attended a two-day Sanitone Certified Master Drycleaning seminar in Cincinnati, Ohio. The event provided an educational oppor-tunity and a chance to network with other professionals. For more information call 517/782-7131

Debbie Weid, former executive director of the Downtown Development Authority, has been named director of eco-nomic development for the City of Jackson. For more information call 517/788-4060.

Jack Christianson has joined Ella Sharp Museum where he will be working on marketing and communications. For more information, call 517/787-2320.

The Jackson Chapter of Business and Professional Women has created a new award to recognize excellence in women owned businesses. The award, which has been titled the "Nike Award," will be presented in February in conjunction with the Economic Club luncheon celebrating the recipient of the ATHENA Award. For nomination forms, contact Jodi Snyder at [email protected].

The South Central Michigan Chapter of the American Red Cross invites all local area schools to participate in the Penny Drive Fund Raiser to raise money for the Local Disaster Relief Fund for the South Central Michigan Area, which includes Jackson and Hillsdale Counties. The Fund Raiser runs through March 15,2007. The winning school gets a pizza party, a plaque, 50 first aid kits to the school’s classroom children that raises the most money. All schools that participate get a certificate of appreciation. Contact Jennifer Williams , at 517-782-9486 or by e-mail at [email protected]

Physicians Health Plan of South Michigan has transi-tioned to a new operating system to enhance business pro-cesses and gain efficiencies in member service. For ques-tions relative to the change, call 517/787-6865.

The Jackson Citizen Patriot will host a special celebration to recognize recipients of the Distinguished Citizen of the Year, Youth Citizen of the Year and Corporate Citizen of the Year. The event, catered by Outback Steakhouse, will be held in the community room at Ella Sharp Museum. For more information call 517/787-2300.

In early November Chamber members were all sent a sum-mary of Chamber sponsorship opportunities for 2007. The new approach has proven extremely effective and members have expressed appreciation for the chance to review all sponsorships at a glance. Sponsorships at a variety of levels remain available for many Chamber events, while some have already sold out. If you have not yet returned your sponsorship commitment or would like another copy to review, simply contact the Chamber at 517/782-8221.

Event Sponsorships Remain Available

An Insureance Leader for over 50 yearsWalton Agency Insurance

(517) 787-2600 www.waltonagency.com

Home CommercialAuto Work CompLife 401KsCondo Group Health

Protecting your Tomorrows

JACKSON. MI 517 787-2600 800 837-2601

Catch us on JTV Channel 17 The Bart Hawley Show

Sponsor of the “Walton Agency Prize Bucket”

Page 4: PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Jackson, MI 49201 141 ......Allen Spiess, Jr.* Craig Tapley Jan Taylor Scott Theiss Randy Treacher Susan L. Milhoan, APR* President *Executive Committee

4 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce January 2007 January 2007 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce 9

Looking for properties for sale? Check out the Jackson Area Association of REALTORS® NEW website!

www.JacksonMIHomes.com

THE source for all your Real Estate needs! Find a REALTOR® - Search Properties - Open Houses - Mortgage Rates from Local Lenders & much much more!

<<AdNumber>>

West:4885 W. Michigan Ave.Jackson, Mich. 49201(517) 750-3098

East:5333 S. Meridian

(US127 South)Jackson, Mich. 49201

(517) 990-0220

NOW 2 LOCATIONS

We invite you to takeadvantage of this

Gift Certificate$3500 Good towards any new rental, only one certificateper person, per storage unit. This offer is goodat both of our locations. Please present this ad.

Economic Club Plans Special Afternoon Session

Stephen M.R. Covey in Town for SPEED of Trust For several years the Economic Club has discussed oppor-tunities to host nationally known speakers. While the calibre of Economic Club speakers has been consistently high, the lun-cheon format has posed challenges for scheduling both speakers and attendees. On February 22, the Economic Club is hosting its first "big event," bringing Stephen M.R. Covey to Jackson to present the fundamentals of his new book, "The SPEED of Trust." The event, scheduled at the Michigan Theatre, will run two hours, beginning at 4:30 p.m. Tickets are available for $15, $25, $35 and $45. Covey is co-founder and CEO of CoveyLink Worldwide. A sought-after and compelling keynote speaker and advisor on trust, leadership, ethics and high performance, he speaks to audi-ences around the world. In his ground breaking and paradigm-shifting book, "The SPEED of Trust," Covey demonstrates how trust is a hard-edged, economic driver--a learnable and measurable skill that makes organizations more profitable, people more promotable, and relationships more energizing. He is former CEO of the Covey Leadership Center and personally led the strategy that propelled his father's book, Dr. Stephen R. Covey's "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," to one of the most influential business books of the 20th Century, according to CEO Magazine. John Gray, Ph.D, author of "Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus," explains, “Those relationships that will stand the test of time are built upon a foundation of enduring trust. Covey gives us the blueprint for learning how to apply this

Image Committee Showcases Effort

New Identity Unveiled for Jackson Months of hard work by the Cham-ber Image Committee gained recognition on December 6 with the public unveiling of the new identity for Jackson County. About 100 people attended the program at Ella Sharp Museum and were reward-ed with a commemorative star, complete with the new logo. Chamber Chair Teri Ogg explained the significance of establishing a posi-tive image for the community and cited the economic development potential of having and protecting a recognizable identity. Image Committee Chair Phil DuPuis shared the stage with other committee members as each reported on the research that went into creating Jackson's new brand and the significance of el-ements identified by survey participants, focus groups and others. Mary Katherine Quasarano, of MK & Company, unveiled the logo, a green branch highlighted with stars, noting that Jackson County is consistently recognized for its natural attributes and the remarkable assets that are synonymous with the area. "Each of these stars can be anything you want," she said. "One might be

The 2007 edition of the Chamber's Buyer's Guide & Mem-bership Directory is incorporated in the December issue of Jackson Magazine and was mailed to all Chamber members in early December. Additional copies are available to members at the Chamber offices. Please correct the following: On page 5, the telephone number for Bond and Company should read 517/789-8900. On page 11, the web address for Orthopaedic Rehab Special-ists should read www.orthopaedicrehab.com. On page 38, St. Luke Lutheran Church is located at 3501 Morrill and should be identified in the category section as offer-ing child care services. Additional corrections will be posted as they are discovered.

Updates to the New Directory

principle with the important people in our lives.” “Covey expertly illuminates the connections between credibility and productivity in a way that will forever change your perception of trust,” says Anthony Robbins, author of "Awaken the Giant Within" and "Unlimited Power." The special event is being sponsored by CP Federal Credit Union, Jackson Community College, Jackson County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Manpower Services, Inc., Spring Arbor University and TDS Metrocom. To test yourself on your own trustworthiness, consider visit-ing the Covey sponsored site www.whotrustsyou.com and take the self analysis. The insights are revealing and the assessment tool is free. Four sponsor positions are still available at $2,500 each. Sponsors receive 25 tickets to the event (10 premium tickets) and an invitation for two to dinner with Covey after the event. The event is open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis. For more information about the event, contact Susan Milhoan at [email protected] or by phone at 517/782-8221.

With the Chamber's recent move to regain its independence, all sorts of new systems and procedures have been reviewed. The Chamber has physically relocated to offices at 141 South Jackson Street and post office boxes and fax numbers have been changed. But the most apparent change came in mid-December when the Chamber Board of Directors reviewed and selected a new logo for the organization. The new logo, designed by R.J. Michaels Creative, captures a portion of the tree used in the new county brand identity to repre-sent growth and stability. A river in the lower portion is meant to represent both the significance of Jackson County as the headwa-ters of the Grand River, and the community and its rich heritage of contributing to the world through both products and ideas. The new logo will be incorporated in all Chamber signage, stationery and other materials.

Chamber Gains New Logo

golf, another might be museums, one could be your educational institutions, or the festivals you have here. But one of the stars must represent the people of Jackson because consistently it is the goodness of the people that shapes the image of Jackson." During 2007, the Image Committee will work to incorpo-rate the new logo, and its positioning statement -- "Down to Earth People Reaching New Heights" -- into advertising efforts and other vehicles. The new logo is available online for use by any Jackson resi-dent or business. Included are the graphic standards recommended by the Image Committee. For more information, or to become involved with the Image Committee, contact Kara Beer at [email protected] or at 517/782-8221.

The unveiling of the new identity took place in the new com-munity room at Ella Sharp Museum.

Page 5: PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Jackson, MI 49201 141 ......Allen Spiess, Jr.* Craig Tapley Jan Taylor Scott Theiss Randy Treacher Susan L. Milhoan, APR* President *Executive Committee

January 2007 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce 5

Ribbon Cuttings in December Commonwealth Assoc. Hosts Business After Hours

The Buy Local,Stay Local Economy:When we invest in local companies, theirbusinesses are stronger and they are ableto grow. This means they hire workers whoin turn spend money locally on food,clothing, housing, taxes and charitablecontributions. Jackson Contractors arehighly skilled professionals who live andwork in the community. Support theJackson economy by bidding your workwith Jackson Contractors.

For more information:www.JCCA.bizor write:Jackson Commercial ContractorsAssociationP.O. Box 143, Jackson, MI 49204517.990.9600

1000

7291

60-0

1

Invest in YourCommunity…

8 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce January 2007

Lenny's Sub Shop opened for business on November 30 at 133 West Michigan Avenue. Lenny's is a genuine Philadelphia-style shop offering fresh baked bread, top quality deli meats and cheeses served fresh and hot and made to order. Delivery is available. For more information, call 517/782-2444.

Thursday, January 18 the Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce (you and I and 120 of our best friends) will be attending the Commonwealth Associates, LLC Business After Hours from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The event will be held at 2700 W. Argyle (in the Eaton/Aeroquip complex) in the middle building (the Commonwealth Associates name is on it). Attendees can enter through either gate on Argyle. Look for the parking lot islands to be certain you are in the correct parking lot. This, ladies and gentlemen, is the first of many great Business After Hours for the 2007 line up. Not to mention the fact that it will just be good fun! In order to make sure you are registered, contact the Chamber to make a reservation. The Business After Hours events are a great way to network in a social setting every first and third Thursday of each month. Best of all, the events are FREE to all Chamber members and Business After Hours is a casual NETWORKING social event where you may meet many potential business contacts in a fun atmosphere. Each event boasts a new theme. We encourage participants to join us by dressing the part. It's always FUN! Events are held from 5 - 7:00 p.m. at various locations and Business After Hours is both a networking mixer and a great way to connect with other Chamber members. Interested in sponsoring a Business After Hours in 2007? It has proven to be a cost-efficient method for:1. Expanding your business by displaying goods and services to potential new clients and customers.2. Increasing your business contacts which could substantially

change your profit picture. 3. Projecting a positive image of your company to the business community.4. Getting maximum mile-age from limited advertis-ing dollars. 5. Letting the public (and Chamber members) meet the people behind the names and logos. For more information on sponsoring Business After Hours or to make reservations to the January 18 event please contact Christina Stephenson at 517/782-8221 or via e-mail at [email protected].

New beginnings present opportunities to renew and improve. If the tick of a new year can motivate us individually, the thunderous clap of a new year for Good Morning! Greater Jackson can arouse us collectively. In the past month the Chamber has had the opportunity for reflection. We are preparing to WOW the audience with a spectacular, informative and dynamic group of individuals and businesses to welcome Chamber members back to the Good Morning! Greater Jackson show on January 23. The best resolutions recognize simple truths and commit to them, sometimes using affirmations as an aid. For instance, have you or your staff ever attended a Good Morning! Greater Jackson? Have you been saying you would like to be more involved in the Chamber in 2007? Here is your opportunity, attend one of the 180 events the Chamber hosts a year, join a committee or advertise to other Chamber members on the Good Morning! Greater Jackson show. A resolution for Good Morning! Greater Jackson looks to the big picture and the long term. That means all of us, the entire Chamber membership, supporting other Chamber members by listening, attending, and pledging to frequent other Chamber businesses in 2007. The unifying effect of such a pledge is easily appreciated and noticeable. The Good Morning! Greater Jackson morn-ing radio program held at Bella Notte Ristorante on the fourth Tuesday of each month is an easy way to get involved. Table sponsors have the opportunity to advertise their business for 5-10 minutes during morning drive time on Jackson’s own AM 970 WKHM/WIBM. Guests will enjoy a gourmet breakfast by Bella Notte Ristorante for a reasonable price of $10. Reservations are appre-ciated and recommended: to do so contact Christina Stephenson at 517/782-8221 or via e-mail at [email protected].

Wake Up Early in JanuaryLenny's Subs Opens Store Downtown Rapid Refill Ink is Ready for BusinessRapid Refill Ink, a provider of recycle ink cartridges and similar products, celebrated its grand opening on December 9. The facility at 1083 North Wisner is open seven days a week, with Monday through Friday hours of 8 a.m.-8 p.m. , Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information call 517/817-0680.

Guests at the Chamber Open House on December 7.

Retirement isn’t what it used to be. Living a longer, more active and pro-ductive life means your retirement plan needs to work as hard as it canright now to help you have the lifestyle you envision. Call me, andtogether we’ll determine if your plan is properly structured and allocat-ed to position you to meet your financial goals in the years to come.

Call me for a no-obligation retirement plan analysis:

Matthew D. AugustineSenior Vice President–Wealth Management

Retirement Plan ConsultantSenior Investment Management Consultant

3101 Spring Arbor Road, Suite 400, Jackson, MI 49203

(517) 768-7709

IRS Circular 230 Disclosure: Citigroup, Inc., its affiliates, and its employees are not in the business ofproviding tax or legal advice. These materials and any tax-related statements are not intended or writtento be used, and cannot be used or relied upon, by any such taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding taxpenalties. Tax-related statements, if any, may have been written in connection with the “promotion ormarketing” of the transaction(s) or matter(s) addressed by these materials, to the extent allowed byapplicable law. Any such taxpayer should seek advice based on the taxpayer’s particular circumstancesfrom an independent tax advisor.

©2006 Citigroup Global Markets Inc. Member SIPC. Smith Barney is a division and service mark ofCitigroup Global Markets Inc. and its affiliates and is used and registered throughout the world.CITIGROUP and the Umbrella Device are trademarks and service marks of Citigroup Inc. or its affiliatesand are used and registered throughout the world.

23266 Smith BarneyFarrington & FaviaJob No.: 221 Size 4.625’’ x 4.875’’Description: Retirement isn’t …February06/SmithBarney/23266-D-012/17/06 jn Proof 5 4 3 2 1

Retirement isn’t what it used to be.

Neither are retirement plans.

RET

20

Page 6: PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Jackson, MI 49201 141 ......Allen Spiess, Jr.* Craig Tapley Jan Taylor Scott Theiss Randy Treacher Susan L. Milhoan, APR* President *Executive Committee

January 2007 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce 7

A caring place to call Home!

Independent Semi- Assisted Assisted Living

517-750-0500 www.gantonretirement.com

COMMERCIAL EXCHANGEWarehouse Space & Office Space Available

www.thecommercialexchange.com517/782-9305517/782-9306

Goodwill Industries of Central MI517/787-057010% off merchandise (excluding new goods and auction items)Grand Rental Station517/764-277810% off all rental itemsGreat Northern Sentry Co.517/783-2225$25 off the $100 one-time set-up fee for Alarm Response and/or Patrol Services; 10% off first month of Patrol Service; 10% off Conference/Training Room Rental, CPR, AED, & First Aid Training, & One Free Investigation Consultation H & K Lawn Service, LLC517/563-8838 or 517/788-687810% off first month's bill with a one year service agreement; First application of fertilizer free with the pre-payment of eight step fertilization/weed & grub control program; 10% off any landscape job valued at $500 or more.Heartfelt Treasures517/768-908925% off entire giftware line of over 3,000 items on website. Orders must be phoned in to above number to receive discount. 10% off all engravings (cannot be used with any other discount)Kelly Installation & Window & Door Store 517/782-7780 or 517/764-443710% off purchase price of three windows or moreLegacy Printing517/789-690015% discount on large format servicesMaddalena's, Inc.517/787-4985Minimum of 15% off suggested retail priceMidwest Amusement Co.517/782-51175% off pool tables moved and recoveredMidwest United Federal Credit Union517/787-0029Free checking for first 12 months; first box of checks free; free ATM card; .50% added to any new CD opened; .25% off any new closed-end loanNatural Opportunities517/688-355215% off all Shaklee productsNew Country China Buffet517/788-6667Free soft drink with purchase of meal

New York Life Insurance Co.517/796-2861Discount on long-term care insuranceNutrition Works517/914-101420% discount first visit, 10% discount all future purchasesOrthopaedic Rehab Specialists, PC517/783-6670$5 discount of a $40 massage PakMail517/787-996610% off any shipping (UPS, FEDEX, DHL), packaging and cus-tom packagingPotter & Girodat, LLP517/788-629015% off all legal feesPro Image Uniform517/783-104320% off all corporate identity apparel and medical uniformsSylvan Learning Center517/787-9180Free diagnostic assessmentUnited Mortgage Group, LLC517/783-9500Free appraisal with closing ($300 value)Victory Lane Oil Change(2900 E. Michigan Ave. Only)517/841-7000Free Preferred Customer Card good for: 20% OFF full service oil change; 10% OFF all other services; $4 OFF Ultimate Car WashVoice Data Network Services517/788-925815% off standard labor rates; discounted rate of $40 for “Tune Up”Wells Fargo Home Mortgage517/768-0679$150 off "Conventional Loan" closing costsWendy'sAll Jackson Locations10% off total purchase (excluding tax)

6 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce January 2007

Cheap Travel & Vacations517/414-1866$200 off $1,295 Level I Travel Membership packageChristoff & Sons Floor Covering, Inc.517/782-1971Free floor cleaner w/purchase of flooring; 50% off Scotchgard w/purchase of carpet cleaningDave’s Auto Repair517/787-863010$ off parts & labor up to $100 (excluding tires, batteries and towing)DBI Business Interiors517/783-593420% off all furniture; 10% off first office supply order over $100Ella Sharp Museum517/787-2320Free museum admission - good on Sundays year-roundThe Empire Group800/590-9990Discounts of up to 70% off list, no minimum order, free next day delivery, and thousands of items available next dayFifth Third Bank517/788-6030Reduced/Eliminated Bank Fees, Employee Benefit Banking, and much more (by appointment only)First Telecommunications517/322-0600Free assessment business telephone bills (80-90% chance we can save you money!) Free site survey of voice & data system, 10% discount on moves, adds & changes to telephone, voicemail, and related equipment, 5% discount on new equipment installationsGaide Veterinary Hospital517/787-351210% discount off total services

In addition to networking opportunities and other busi-ness services, members of the Chamber (and their employees) can access discounts such as the 43 offers identified here. The program, free to Chamber members, also represents a very cost effective employee benefit program. Every Chamber member is provided with two cards upon renewal of their Chamber mem-bership. To implement the discount, show your Member-to-Member Discount card when purchasing services from the Chamber mem-bers identified here. Discounts are designed by the individual business and are good for one year. Participating in the Member-to-Member pro-gram by offering a discount is free to members. To offer a discount or request additional cards for employees ($1 each), contact [email protected]/20 Communications517/787-202015% off accessoriesABC Academy517/783-30405% off tuitionA&W Blake517/750-1998$50 furnace A/C maintenance (regular $75)All Play & No Work517/787-6733$50 off rental room and $1 per hour off game room feeAllSkate Fun Center517/787-8713$25 off private laser tag party. Free goodie bags with purchase.American Resource Group517/750-4070New customers receive a free gift or 10% discount on first order of any regularly priced imprinted productA.T.O.M. Communications517/536-2866Free ConsultationBrown's Optioncare517/789-730210% off lift chairs, bathroom safety equipment, and sports bracesCP Federal Credit Union517/784-7101Eligible for Credit Union membershipCassity Chiropractic Center517/787-830915% off initial exam and x-rays

Y: \OfficeDocs \Firm\Administrative \Fraud \Jackson Chamber Ad.doc

Lally, Cummings, Palmer & PatchWe are proud to announce the addition of fraud

examination to our portfolio of services.

Nathan Eads, CPA CFECertified Fraud Examiner

Analysis of fraud riskImplementation of fraud prevention controlsResolution of fraud allegations

Located at 110 1st Street - Downtown [email protected] Phone 517-787-0064

Nearly Four Dozen Chamber Members Now Offer Purchase Discounts