INCREASE FUNCTIONALITY OFFICE FUNCTIONALITY · Content written by outside sources do not reffiect the views & opinions of the JULY/AUG./SEPT. 2018 CHAMBER NEWS 1 2018 JULY /AUG. SEPT

JULY/AUG./SEPT. 2018 CHAMBER NEWS 1*Content written by outside sources do not reflect the views & opinions of the

2018 J U LY / AU G . / S E P T.VOLUME 17 NUMBER 3

4 7-9 10-11 12-14OFFICE FUNCTIONALIT YMEMBERSHIP INNOVATIVE WORKPLACES CELEBRATION OF SERVICE

You’ll find articles in this newsletter about innovative office spaces to increase

workplace functionality. One thing I encourage us to consider when designing our office spaces is inclusion of all people.

Successful businesses know that a diverse workforce, inclusive of people with many backgrounds and experiences, leads to innovation and creative decision-making. In fact, people with disabilities are often the most resourceful and tenacious people you’ll hire.

Additionally, successful businesses know that a broad range of customers will lead to sustainable profits. By making small changes to a building, a business can attract more customers who will likely be grateful for the ease of shopping.

There are small steps a business can take to become accessible, whether through technology, office equipment or entryways. For a nominal expense, a business can ensure that its employees and customers are appreciated and understood.

disAbility Connections has a program that assists businesses become accessible and then promotes those businesses to the public. Visit www.AccessForAll.DisabilityConnect.org for more

information.

Please always remember that

this issue is not about the belief that disabled people are burdens. Before any measures are considered,

one should fully

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INCRE A SE FUNC T IONALIT YFor All

CELEBRATING 90 YEARSInspiring and transforming lives.

From the 1920s to the present day Jackson Collegehas offered educational opportunities to the people of

Jackson County and southern Michigan. The College hascontinued to grow and adapt to the changing times,

providing education for today’s workforce and enrichinglives with cultural and community opportunities.

To learn more about our rich history andhear the stories of our alumni go to

www.jccmi.edu/90years

The Importance ofO FF I C E F U N C T I O N A L I T Y

Your workspace may be the floor of a manufacturing plant or a cubicle beside coworkers. The

workplace is structured differently across industries, but they all should have the same goal – a structure that provides function for the employees to perform.

Office functionality is essential to productivity. If your work space doesn’t work, it hinders what gets done. Businesses organize and construct their space in the way they believe will be most efficient for work flow. Some companies take this a step further by making their work place high tech, innovative, or giving it a specific design aesthetic.

I appreciate workspaces that don’t look cookie cutter and are pleasing to the eye. Recently, I stopped in Mollie Bolton’s office at Edward Jones and complimented the elevated ceilings and exposed brick wall. Mollie shared that the original plan for the building was to drop all the ceilings and put in florescent lighting. What a disservice that would be to a beautiful historic building in downtown Jackson! Mollie was able to adjust the plans of the construction to keep the historical integrity of the building. Not only does

the office showcase the historic roots it has in our community, but it also provides her clients and staff with a space that is warm and inviting.

The movie Joe Versus the Volcano comes to mind when I think of office spaces and how cumbersome a cramped layout, obnoxious lighting and outdated design can affect your customers and your staff.

The Chamber moved into a new building last November and our wonderful members provided us with ways to really improve our space. We got lighting from Everlast Lighting that helps fight seasonal depression. DBI and Kentwood provided furniture that helped organize our spaces and keep us productive. Our new space and the structure has been better able to accommodate us as our staff has grown without disrupting work flow.

We reached out to our members with

By: Sarah Lyman / Marketing & Events Coordinator / Jackson County Chamber

2 CHAMBER NEWS JULY/AUG./SEPT. 2018 JACKSONCHAMBER.ORG

T H E C H A M B E R I N A C T I O N

BOARDOFDIRECTORSKyle Hockley | Picture This...Jackson Mike England | England Family Agency - Farm Bureau Freddie Dancy | Dancy’s Fancy Butter Paul Buchholz | Lloyd Ganton Retirement Centers Cathy Reynolds | Consumers Energy - Downtown Tim Rogers | The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Inc. Ted Christoff | Christoff & Sons Floor Covering Inc. Sandy Maes | Board of Governors Dr. Michelle Shields | Jackson College Mike Overton | Jackson County Patrick Burtch | City of Jackson Jeffrey Anderson | Anderson & Makulski, PC Jim Coutu | Michigan Works! Southeast Sue Goldsen | Board of Governors Jamie McKibbin | Jackson’s Hit Music Station - K105.3 Monica M Moser | Jackson Community Foundation Dave Page Jr. CPA | Rehmann Ryan Smithson | Baker College of Jackson Tabitha Williams | Comfort Inn & Suites Anita Maria Quillen | Diversified Engineering & Plastics LLC

BOARDOFGOVERNORSMike Jones | Michigan Works! Southeast Robert Michaels | RjM John Crist | C P Federal Credit Union Sandy Maes | Henry Ford Allegiance Health Linda Furgason | Avis Rent A Car Steven Patch | Lally Group, CPA’s Teri Ogg | Manpower Inc Philip M. Moilanen | Marcoux, Allen, Bower, Nichols & Kendall, P.C. Dr. Daniel J. Phelan | Jackson College Sue Goldsen | Jackson’s Hit Music Station Ron Griffith | Spring Arbor University

Speed Networking at Buffalo Wild Wings, sponsored by YMCA Storer Camps was full

Legislative Rise and Shine with Mike Shirkey provided engaging discussion,

March 29th Brew with the Board at The Chase Sports Bar sponsored by ASK, brought together new members and Board

The Economic Luncheon at the City View Room in Commonwealth Commerce Center was a full house as members heard

Congratulations to the 37th graduating class of Leadership Jackson! Thank you to our sponsors: Title Sponsor: Consumers Energy, Leadership Sponsor: Commonwealth Associates, Mentor Sponsors: Jackson County ISD, Michigan Works! Southeast and OmniSource. Graduation at Commonwealth

Over 100 members connected at Off the Clock sponsored by E.P.M Ground Services and hosted by Sandhill Crane Vineyards. Thank you to our event sponsors: DBI – We Do Office, Baker College, Experience Jackson, Production Realty, Malachi Printing, Community Hearing Center, and

CHAMBER STAFFPRESIDENT/CEOMindy Bradish-Orta | [email protected]

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Mary Schuessler | [email protected]

EXECUTIVE LIAISON Kelly Sharrer | [email protected]

DIRECTOR OF EVENTS & LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS Matt Swartzlander | [email protected]

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Patrick O’Dowd | [email protected]

BUSINESS TO BUSINESS FACILITATOR Jessica Webb | [email protected]

MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR Sarah Lyman | [email protected]

FIRST IMPRESSIONS DIRECTOR Casey Hansen | [email protected]

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEECHAIR: Ted Christoff | Christoff & Sons Floor Covering Inc.VICE CHAIR: Karen Richard | Culver’s RestaurantPAST CHAIR: Josh Burgett | Michigan Land BankTREASURER: Carolyn Matteson | Creative PromotionsSECRETARY: Bob Moore | Pentar StampingAT-LARGE: Kyle Hockley | Picture This… Jackson Jamie McKibbin | Jackson’s Hit Music Station- k105.3 Anita Maria Quillen | Diversified Engineering & Plastics LLC

BOARD OF DIRECTORSJeff Beal | Jackson Public SchoolsMollie Bolton | Edward Jones InvestmentsGeoff Bontrager | Northwest Public SchoolsMike Brown | Jackson Area Transportation AuthorityPaul Buchholz | Lloyd Ganton Retirement CentersPatrick Burtch | City of JacksonJim Coutu | Michigan Works! SoutheastJohn Crist | Political Action Committee ChairFreddie Dancy | Dancy’s Fancy ButterNeil Fernandes | Rise AboveKyle Hockley | Picture This...JacksonSandy Maes | Board of GovernorsJamie McKibbin | Jackson’s Hit Music Station - K105.3Monica Moser | Jackson Community FoundationMike Overton | Jackson CountyDave Page | RehmannAnita Maria Quillen | Diversified Engineering & Plastics LLCCathy Reynolds | Consumers Energy - DowntownMichael Ritter | Eaton CorporationJenifer Robinson | Flagstar BankTim Rogers | The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Inc.Linda Schaub | Spring Arbor UniversityTabitha Williams | Experience Jackson

BOARD OF GOVERNORSTed Christoff | Christoff & Sons Floor Covering Inc.Sarah Ermatinger | C P Federal Credit Union

We welcome all Chamber members to join us at our events! If you do plan to attend, please

The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce is active in bringing its members networking events (Off The Clock, Speed Networking), educational events (Economic

Luncheons, Leadership Jackson Classes), and promotional events (Good Morning!

JACKSONCHAMBER.ORG JULY/AUG./SEPT. 2018 CHAMBER NEWS 3

ADVERTISERSINDEX PageJackson College .................................................................................................................................... 1

Experience Jackson ............................................................................................................................. 3

Jackson County Chamber of Commerce ..................................................................................... 5

American Office Solutions ................................................................................................................ 6

Comerica Bank ...................................................................................................................................... 8

Walton Insurance Group .................................................................................................................... 9

Flagstar Bank ........................................................................................................................................10

Lally Group ...........................................................................................................................................10

Malachi Printing .................................................................................................................................. 11

Orthopaedic Rehab Specialists, P.C. ............................................................................................ 11

Accident Fund ..................................................................................................................................... 12

DBI ........................................................................................................................................................... 13

Lloyd Ganton Retirement Centers, Inc. ...................................................................................... 14

RjM ........................................................................................................................................................... 15

Comtronics ...........................................................................................................................................16

CP Federal Credit Union ...................................................................................................................16

Graphic Design by RjM | Printing and Mailing by LTi | Editor: Sarah Lyman

This November’s election WILL

have an impact on your business.

Our Chamber is working hard to

make sure that the issues that are being

worked on in Washington, Lansing and

at the local level are going to lessen

regulations and help grow our economy

here in Jackson County. Along with

numerous local, state, and federal

seats up for election this fall is a ballot

proposal that we will be spending a

lot of time on researching and review

for potential impacts to business. I

am requesting your feedback on the

proposed law to “Regulate Marijuana

like Alcohol.” How do you think this

proposed law is going to affect your

business, if any, in a positive or negative

way? We have already heard from many

interested businesses and organizations

on this topic, now, it’s your turn. Contact

me today via email or phone to share

By: Matt Swartzlander / Jackson County Chamber of Commerce / Director of

BECOME JACKSON CERTIFIED

WHAT IS JACKSON CERTIFIED?

Jackson Certified is a fun way to

help people become more aware

and involved with the great

things of Jackson!

WHY IS IT GOOD FOR BUSINESS?

BOOSTS MORALE

BUILDS LOYAL CUSTOMERS

CREATES TEAM BONDING

IMPROVES LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

Contact Jessica Webb to

find out more and get your

business certified!

[email protected]

517-764-4440

Certif ied.ExperienceJackson.com


THANK YOU1-5 YEARSThe Carroll CollectionSharp Construction Company LLCJackson Auto CompanyAction Packaging - Jackson LLCSummit Heights Dental CareMalachi Printing Hampton Funeral HomesFritz Advertising Co.Fit with Eve, LLCHealth Alliance Plan (HAP)Susie Mohlman, Sproat Realty ProfessionalsBallet ChelseaPremier Eyecare of JacksonThe Dirty BirdPlumbers & Pipefitters

Local 333Mid-Michigan Health CentersNorth-Ply Contracting Co.Makeup Geek, LLCBeltone Hearing Aid CenterTeachout Security SolutionsTAC Manufacturing, Inc.LifeSpans... a community serviceSouthridge Park ApartmentsDesigns PlusBlair's Car CareXCEL Staffing, Inc.Batteries Plus BulbsCompassionate Ministries of Jackson CountyHope Network New Passage JTown Club House

Huff Auto GroupKlavon's Pizzeria & Pub - VandercookFinley's American GrillGoldsmith & AssociatesBreakfast Rotary Club of JacksonDale Fisher GalleriesSafety Systems Inc.ITC HoldingsChildrenz ChallengeJohnson Sign Co.Grand River BreweryRider Oral SurgeryPound & Pound Family DentistryDancy's Fancy Butter

6-10 YEARSHankerd Inn ResortPaul Bengel Mechanical ContractorsJackson Appliance

ServiceA-Z Embroidery & Advertising Solutions TODAY!Vermeulen FurnitureTamrox AutomotiveAnn Arbor State BankAirmaster Fan CompanyVictoria Pointe ApartmentsRidgeCrest Health CampusAnderson Insurance AgencyStrouss Construction LLCThe Purple Rose TheatreReynolds Management, Inc.Jackson Orthopedic Specialists, PLLCIndian Trails, Inc.Kentwood Office Furniture

TransPharm Preclinical SolutionsSalah Huwais, DDS, PLLC

11-15 YEARSCherry Creek CellarsPinson Urology and Continence Center P.C.Willbee Transit-Mix Co., Inc.Culver's RestaurantSeymour Ford LincolnGood Earth Real Estate, LLCBrad A. Double, D.C.Country Club Turf Inc.

15-20 YEARSBio Image Systems, Inc.Mid-Michigan Mechanical Contractors AssociationMeijer, Inc. - Airport

Rd.Headliners Boutique Inc.Apollo ExpressComcast Business ServicesSmith Group JJRKellogg & Latz DentistryHot Air Jubilee

21-30 YEARSGreat Lakes CaringJackson CountyJackson District LibraryP & T Fitness (Pedal & Tour), Inc.

31-40 YEARSJackson Computer ServicesBeffel LightingEstate & Pension Plans, Inc.

WELCOMERoberts and Associates, AIA Architects2545 Spring Arbor Rd., Suite 103Jackson, MI 49203(517) 782-3800Donn RobertsArchitectsAreti Accounting 900 S. Union, Grass Lake, MI 49240(517) 262-2389Shiela Martin Accounting / Bookkeeping/Payroll ServiceJust Staged LLC6535 Rives Junction Rd.Jackson, MI 49201(517) 740-9058Lisa Tucker Real Estate, Home StagingPartnership Park Chiropractic, PLLC

401 S. Mechanic St.Jackson, MI 49201(517) 513-3250Annie Morgan ChiropractorsEpic Blue Media, LLC 4178 Rochester Crt,Jackson, MI 49201(517) 240-8204Don RumseyMediaVillage of Spring Meadows – A Senior Living Community 3501 Cherry Blossom Dr. Jackson, MI 49201(517) 788-6679Rae Stachnik Retirement/Nursing HomesCook Foundation & Flatwork 7600 King Rd.Spring Arbor, MI

49283(517) 750-3460Tonya LaserraConcreteProminent Design & Build, Inc.3738 Lansing Ave.Jackson, MI 49202(517) 796-0018Christopher Sayles Construction Companies - General ContractorsHudson Entertainment, LLC755 W High St.Jackson, MI 49203(313) 251-8363Ryan HudsonEvent / Party PlanningVirtuosic Group1567 Cahill Dr.East Lansing, MI 48823(517) 599-3543Ken Whitenger

Marketing ConsultantRedwood Marketing 180 W. Michigan Ave. Suite 700 Jackson, MI 49201(517) 745-6200Stuart Kail Video ProductionChelsea Retirement Community – United Methodist Retirement Communities 805 West Middle St.Chelsea, MI 48118(734) 433-1000James Kelly Retirement/Nursing HomesJimmy John’s2101 W. Michigan Ave .Jackson, MI 49201(517) 784-8224Thomas BrunschRestaurantsSocial Sound 180 W. Michigan Ave. 11th Floor

Jackson, MI 49201(517) 618-1799Chriss IottMarketing ConsultantPrimal Pizza 4060 Reed Rd.Clarklake, MI 49234(517) 416-7749Jeff Reed Pizza, RestaurantsBlain’s Farm and Fleet, Jackson 3555 O’Neill Dr. Jackson, MI 49202(608) 758-5044Dormie Roberts Retailer5 Leprechauns LLC414 N Jackson St., Ste. 87-1Jackson, MI 49201(517) 764-7797Robert JohnsonConstruction Companies/General ContractorsBlain’s Farm and

Fleet, Portage 879 Mall Dr.Portage, MI 49024(608) 758-5044RetailerCP Federal Credit Union – Grass Lake Branch 670 E. Michigan Ave .Grass Lake, MI 49240Sarah ErmatingerCredit UnionsEvan Spooner State Farm Insurance Agency 1931 Horton Rd., Suite 4Jackson, MI 49203(517) 789-6030Evan Spooner InsuranceHunt Club 1514 Daniel Rd. Jackson, MI 49202(517) 782-0375Jen SilvesterRestaurants

RENEWING/NEW MEMBERS


MEMBERSHIP TIP

A re you taking advantage of the Enhanced Web Listing on JacksonChamber.

org to drive more online referrals? Being a Chamber Member gets you a

business listing on JacksonChamber.org, but the Enhanced Web Listing takes

that listing to the next level.

MAXIMIZE YOUR MEMBERSHIP'SRETURN ON INVESTMENT

October 18th

2018

1pm-7pm

AllSkateFun Center

JacksonChamber.org

• Photos

• Videos

• Logos

• Representative information

• Highlight sections of your website

Contact Patrick O’Dowd at [email protected] or 517-782-8221 to get your


Jackson County Chamber of Commerce

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18Speed NetworkingThe plan is simple: We bring Jackson's professionals together to network (and have fun!). This is a unique way to meet people, generate new contacts and business leads in a structured environment - in one afternoon!

• WHERE: Vista Grande Villa • WHEN: 2:30pm-5:00pm • COST: $15 for Chamber Members in advance; $25 at the door - RSVP's a must

THURSDAY, AUGUST 2PM Brew with the Board sponsored by ASKAll Chamber members are encouraged to attend Brew with the Board, sponsored by ASK, to meet our staff, and our Board of Directors. End your day with us, make new business connections and take advantage of this opportunity to share what your business offers with other members.

• WHERE: Buffalo Wild Wings • WHEN: 4:30pm-6:00pm • COST: FREE to attend. Space is limited, so please RSVP.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 10Legislative Rise & ShineJoin your Jackson County Chamber of Commerce for a hot breakfast to discuss your important business issues with your local, state and federal elected officials.

• WHERE: Chamber Office

134 W. Michigan Ave. • WHEN: 7:30am-8:30am • COST: $20 for Chamber Members in advance; RSVP's a must; member-only

TUESDAY, AUGUST 28Good Morning! Greater JacksonAttend this live radio program with NewsTalk 970am/101.5fm that features five (5) members. Breakfast, Networking and sharing from the Chamber's membership.

• WHERE: Bella Notte Ristorante 137 W. Michigan Ave.

• WHEN: 7:30am-8:30am • COST: $10 for Chamber members in advance; $15 at the door (includes breakfast)

TUESDAY, AUGUST 28JAXPO Kick-Off EventDo you want to learn how to make the most out of your JAXPO Booth Experience? Then join the JAXPO Committee as we look at the Dos and Don'ts of everything JAXPO!

• WHERE: Bella Notte Ristorante 137 W. Michigan Ave.


MONDAY, SEPT. 10Economic LuncheonThese educational, business development

and community affairs luncheons feature local and high-level speakers. The Economic Luncheons give busy professionals the chance to keep up with important issues facing Jackson businesses. Don't miss this opportunity for high-level networking and learning about the great and amazing things happening in our business community and our overall community.

• WHERE: Cascades Manor House (1970 Kibby Rd)

• WHEN: 11:30am-1:00pm • COST: $25 for Chamber members in advance; $30 at the door (includes lunch)

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 19Regional Off The Clock Jackson's Premier Professional Networking Event, join other Chamber members to network in a fun and unique atmosphere. With food, entertainment, live radio remote, dessert, drink and business sponsors, you'll not want to miss this.

• WHERE: Awaken Haunt LLC (4760 Churchill Road, Leslie, MI)

• WHEN: 5:00pm-7:00pm • COST: $5 for Chamber members; $10 for future Chamber members

TUESDAY, SEPT. 25Good Morning! Greater JacksonAttend this live radio program that features four (4) members and a Chamber Segment. Sponsorships available.

• WHERE: Bella Notte Ristorante (137 W. Michigan Ave.)


THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18JAXPOYour Jackson Business 2 Business Expo is back and better than ever! Join us for the 11:30am Economic Luncheon at Optimist before heading over to the start of JAXPO at 1pm. And if that isn't enough, join us for Speed Networking at 2:30pm and JAXPO after Hours at 5pm.

To Register: Unless otherwise noted, R.S.V.P. for events to Kelly 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

American Office Solutions has been serving the Jackson community since 1969, offering managed print services and website design to businesses, government

entities, medical and educational organizations.

(517) 783-2855 | getaos.com

ServiceOffering proactive

maintenance and monitoring of your copiers and printers

Averaging under 3.5 hours response time when your copier or

printer needs our help

Prioritizing each client by staffing members of our team

whose sole purpose is to live in the details for you

Responsiveness Client Care


OFFICE FUNCTIONALIT Y

DESIGNING WORKSPACES to Impact Your Company Culture

You may ask yourself what

standing at your desk, designing

with specific office colors or

having conference tables integrated

into your company’s work space can do

to affect your productivity. A growing

number of businesses, including

American Office Solutions, are creating

spaces that mirror their company’s

culture.

Combating Sedentary Workspaces

One such change in workplaces is the

reintroduced phenomenon of the

standing desk. Approximately 70%

of people spend six or more hours

sitting at work, and the standing desk

is contesting that statistic. Even the

large corporations are offering the

opportunity for their employees to

stand as a part of their offered health

(Above, left) Example of Standing Desk. (Above, right) Modern work space

benefits. Most common among the

users of standing desks are those in the

professions of sales, education, art or

illustration.

Designing Environments to Inspire

Another noteworthy trend in

the business world is the careful

consideration of design in workspaces

to cultivate inspiration among

employees. A recent study by the

University of Texas found that grey,

beige and white offices evoke feelings

of sadness. On the contrary, shades

of blue and green are proven to be

calming colors that boost productivity,

while orange and yellow encourage

creativity. The choice of specific colors

is unique to each office space and the

culture that the specific company is

trying to foster.

Creating Spaces for Collaboration

Connectivity is a growing part of the

21st century business environment.

As such, it is becoming increasingly

important to create spaces for open

communication among employees.

Companies such as Facebook and

Google are among those applying

this idea by offering integrated

workspaces that facilitate collaboration

and encourage idea sharing among

team members. Examples of such


Sitting for excessively long periods

of time during your workday is a

risk factor associated with a wide

range of health problems. One answer

to reducing these risks is by periodically,

throughout the day, changing your

posture.

Movement and variety are important

to avoid the negative health effects

of office inactivity. Getting out of the

chair to stand at work is a great way to

change posture. Whether that healthy

OPTIMIZING WORKPL ACE WELLNESS

(Above, left) Active Workspace. (Above, right) Stand Desk Converter. (Inset) Sit-to-Stand Option

change is achieved with a sit-to-stand

desk, a sit-stand desk convertor, or

alternative active seating, depends

on an organization’s culture, how an

individual works and how members

interact with each other.

Balanced movement is a key factor to

wellness at work. A combination of

sitting and standing has been shown to

reduce discomfort and increase focus

and productivity. Throughout the day,

members need to be mindful of good

ergonomic practices whether standing

or sitting. The display, keyboard and

mouse should be in the optimal position

for good posture and the chair should

offer ergonomic functions and correctly

adjusted to each member.

To create a healthier workplace, height-

adjustable desks and tables empower

the user to choose the most comfortable

way to work; varying posture from

sitting to standing throughout the day.

Easy to adjust and available in a variety

of price options, height adjustable desks

or sit-stand convertors offer affordable

options for any business or organization

to begin focusing on employee wellness.

In conjunction with a sit-to-stand desk,

active seating (perching) promotes

movement, improves posture and

engages your core while sitting.

Designed to support better posture

and balance by allowing adjustment of

the sitting angle, active seating options

incorporate movement by promoting

low intensity physical activity

throughout the day.

Today, companies and organizations

are revisiting office standards and

focusing on healthy and happy

workspaces to retain and attract quality

members. The best way to support

productivity and encourage employee



Every business experiences

growing pains, and in the case

of America’s Preferred Home

Warranty (APHW) of Jackson, MI, those

pains largely came from one thing: the

need for space. They had run out of

room, and it was time to upgrade.

“I was thinking of a way to attract

people,” said Mike Sadler, Vice President

of Operations. When he discovered the

concept of converting a warehouse into

office space, he thought it would be

really cool. “We spend a ton of time here,

why not make the place something the

team can enjoy?”

When they found out the old Extra

Innings building on Ann Arbor Road was

available, they had an offer in within

a week. Next was getting an architect

who could make their dreams a reality—

Enter Arik Green Design. “Almost all of

his references said how much he had

improved their businesses,” Mike said.

“I was very much inspired by three

things,” Arik said, referring to the

business APHW does, the leadership

of the company, and the challenge of

converting the old sports facility into

an office space. His first steps were to

AMERICA’S PREFERRED HOME WARRANT YUpgrades Building for Employee Satisfaction

learn APHW’s growing needs, and then

to take inspiration from the culture and

history of the company. “That’s how

we came up with the main conference

room shaped like a house—because the

company is like a home,” he said.

The rest of the spaces were about

creating environments for comfort, easy

interaction, and “the kind of in-house

perks that make people who spend

so much time at work feel at home,”

according to Arik. “It was also very

important to the leadership to provide

personal spaces like the phone booths,

the track, and the fitness room.”

Management also wanted to improve

the everyday comfort of their team, so

the equipment got an upgrade as well.

“Randy (President, APHW) wanted to

create a warm, friendly, fun place to work,”

said Mike, noting the large TV screens,

lower cubicle walls, and ergonomic chairs.

A few of the spaces were able to get

rising desks as well.



For most, April 15 may be celebrated

as renowned innovator Leonardo

da Vinci’s birthday; for Consumers

Energy, it’s also the date the company

christened Jackson’s own hub to new

ideas

– the Innovation Center.

Two years ago, Consumers Energy

celebrated the opening of the downtown

Innovation Center.

The building, at 165

W. Michigan Ave.,

turned the onetime

Woolworth store into

a showcase where

the energy provider

develops new

technologies and,

also importantly, encourages employees

to work in spaces designed in new and

creative ways.

“The Consumers Energy Innovation

Center will serve as a space where our

company can continue to explore new

ideas, methods and technology across

industries,” said Patti Poppe, Consumers

Energy’s president and chief executive

officer.

“We are promoting collaboration and

potential partnerships between our

company, universities, startups, investors,

entrepreneurs, nonprofits, innovators and

businesses. Innovation is good for our

customers and has been critical to our

company for over 130 years.”

The four-story Innovation Center offers

space for members of several Consumers

Energy teams, including energy efficiency,

customer digital

experience and

others, serving as an

incubator for some

of the company’s

next-generation

technologies.

An important aspect

of the Innovation

Center is its design, which distinguishes

it even from Consumers Energy’s

headquarters down the street.

Historic touches such as the original

concrete floors were polished and

preserved, while open workspaces within

the building promote collaboration

between Consumers Energy employees.

A large skylight lets in the sun through

the middle of the building, while colorful

décor – including booths, high-top tables

and more – provide employees with

flexible workspaces.

The Innovation Center, with tenants

that include CP Federal Credit Union,

also is a nod to Consumers Energy’s

future. The company recently announced

the creation of the Jackson Smart

Energy District – bordered by Louis

Glick Highway, Michigan Avenue and

Blackstone and Jackson streets – that will

provide a showcase for such possibilities

as solar energy and electric vehicle

charging stations that build on Jackson’s

current distinction as an innovative and

energy-efficient city.

As Poppe noted, Consumers Energy has

INNOVATIVE WORKPLACES

CONSUMERS ENERGYShows Commitment to Innovation with

Downtown Center

Member FDIC

Equal Housing Lender

Great things

What solutions can we craft

for you?

come from hard work and skillful hands.

Visit us at flagstar.com

today.

“We are promoting collaboration and potential partnerships

between our company, universities, startups, investors, entrepreneurs,

nonprofits, innovators and businesses. Innovation is good for

our customers and has been critical to our company for over 130 years.”


It has been more than two years since

the team at Richmond Brothers,

Inc. moved from their beautifully

traditional, yet slightly outdated office

space at Fox Farms near Napoleon. Now

situated at the Jackson County Airport

with a completely updated space, the

surroundings continue to feel new and

certainly improved.

Throughout the planning of the

renovation of the former Consumers

Energy hangar/office building, Richmond

Brothers co-owners and design teams

focused on one of Richmond Brothers’

core values: Innovate: Embrace & Drive

Change. An additional focus was to keep

employees happy and healthy.

Traditional cubicle spaces with high

walls and very little window access were

replaced with open concept desk stations

at the new location. This vital change

allows easy collaboration between staff.

In addition, large windows allow more

natural lighting. Studies show daylight in

the office improves sleep, physical activity

and quality of life. Careful attention to

detail was paid to ensure privacy was still

possible in an open concept space; white

noise technology permits phone calls and

meetings to be less intrusive to others.

Desktop computers were replaced with

laptops to allow staff mobility throughout

the office. Ergonomic chairs and standing

desks provide the team options to best

suit their situation. While the benefits of

standing at a desk are currently debated,

sitting at a desk all day is extremely

detrimental for one’s health. The option

to split time between sitting and

standing is a wonderful choice.

Dual monitors with a laptop docking

station allow the team to work on up to

three screens at once, increasing their

overall efficiency. Many of the staff have

joked they’re not sure how they ever got

anything done with a single monitor.

University of Utah researchers concur,

stating that using dual-screen monitors

results in 33 percent fewer errors, 16

percent faster edits and 6 percent quicker

access to tasks.

Seven working areas including a rooftop

patio equipped with WiFi, couches,

treadmill station and private meeting

rooms allow staff to relocate based upon

their needs. Phone systems designed for

mobility allow staff to take calls through

an app on their mobile phone while

away from their desks.

The space now helps to enhance the

performance, health and wellness of its

INNOVATIVE WORKPLACES

FROM TRADITIONAL TO MODERN:Richmond Brothers Makes Workspace Dreams a


CELEBRATION OF SERVICE

One hundred years ago, thanks

to Ida Foote’s gift in memory

of her husband, W.A. Foote,

Jackson’s newly built, modern hospital

admitted its first patients. 2018 marks

the 100th anniversary of Henry Ford

Allegiance Health and the beginning of a

year-long celebration, which will include

a Centennial Ball, a Jackson Symphony

Orchestra performance, patient

appreciation week, ribbon cuttings and

commemorative publications.

“As Henry Ford Allegiance Health

enters its second century of caring

for our community, we have much to

celebrate together,” said President and

CEO Georgia Fojtasek. “We are proud of

our beginnings as a small community

hospital and how we have grown to

become a nationally recognized, award

winning health system, and part of

Henry Ford Health System’s statewide

network of care. Ida Foote never could

have imagined we would become a

Level II Trauma Center, establish our

From Small Community Hospital to Nationally Recognized Member of Statewide Health System,

own graduate medical education

program or cancer center, perform

open-heart surgery and robot-assisted

spine procedures here or be honored for

our community commitment with the

American Hospital Association’s Foster

McGaw Prize, but I am certain she would

be proud of us.”

Visit 100.HenryFordAllegiance.com to

view a specially designed website with

historic highlights and photos, serving as

reminders of the unique connections the

H E N R Y F O R D A L L E G I A N C E H E A LT H

Work safer, smarter, together.

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This year is the 100th anniversary

of YMCA Storer Camps. This

celebration serves as an

exciting milestone for all who have

been involved in the development and

operations of this camp.

YMCA Storer Camps, located in Jackson

County, began as “Toledo Y Camp” in

1918 as a way for young boys to escape

the city life for a few weeks. Over time,

Camp Storer evolved from a summer

YMCA Storer Camps

camp to a year-round camp and

educational destination for both boys

and girls. The name YMCA Storer Camps

now reflects all the programming

offered, including traditional summer

camp, outdoor education, group

retreats, and equine.

YMCA Storer Camps has maintained

a strong tradition of service to the

surrounding community of northwest

Ohio and southeast Michigan and


continues to do so still today. Over

17,000 individuals are served at Storer

annually. The camp motto of "God

first, others second, and I'm third" has

taught generations of young people

the importance of placing others above

themselves.

A day-long celebration will be taking

place at camp on Saturday June 30th. The

day will be filled with activities, tours,

stories and new inductees into the Hall of



In March 1923, brothers Rafe and

Merrill Craft incorporated their

fledgling business as The Craft

Agency, Inc. Initially located on South

Jackson Street in downtown Jackson, The

Craft Agency handled Real Estate, Bonds,

and General Insurance. They worked

diligently to build strong relationships

with their customers and were known to

be “men of their word”.

When Rafe passed away the sole focus

of the business was insurance. In 1950,

Merrill’s sons Robert and James Craft

joined the family business. With his sons

by his side, Merrill continued to grow the

insurance business and enhanced their

reputation for integrity and for “doing the

right thing”. Merrill passed away in 1965

and Robert and James continued running

the family business for many years,

establishing deeper client relationships

and expanding their breadth of service.

The third generation of Crafts joined

The Craft Agency

the business after college and obtaining

work experience in other fields as per

Robert’s dictate. Rick Craft was the first

to join, followed by Robert (Jr), Jim

and David. The “boys” ran the business

together expanding market share, and

developing niche programs sold here in

Jackson, as well as across the country.

The Craft Agency moved to Spring Arbor

Road in 2005 after completion of their

new headquarters.

So much has changed since 1923, but the

one thing that remains steadfast is The

Craft Agency’s commitment to Jackson

and the philosophy ---do the right thing

and everything will take care of itself.

It has been our honor and privilege to

serve this community for the last 95

years; working with our clients in good

times and bad and helping them through

claims situations and watching their

business grow and change. We could not


CM Jackson, also known as

Compassionate Ministries of

Jackson County, is nearing

completion of renovations to its

compassionate ministries center,

referred to as “The Table.” The

Table is and is designed to enhance

relationships, as well as to build and

strengthen community. The CM Jackson

campus is located at 3737 Clinton Road

(M-50), in Jackson, Michigan.

CM Jackson’s vision is to build a coalition

of partners which will focus on being

the change which allows for lives to be

transformed. By providing immediate

needs and creating sustainable

solutions, we empower others through

Building Community,

education, transformation, and faith.

Our campus and program development

is based upon our three ministries:

Hunger, Special Needs and Community

Transformation.

Lesia Pikaart, Executive Director of

disability Connections, said “Several

disAbility Connections staff were able to

attend Compassionate Communications

training at the new site. The facility

was so welcoming and comfortable for

a training session. Staff reported that

they gained much from training to use

in their work and personal lives. We

were so impressed that we requested

Compassionate Ministries come to

offer the same training at our building.

I appreciate the opportunity and the

community spirit of Compassionate

Ministries. We have seen our

collaboration grow and benefit people in

our community.”

A coffee bar will soon be added at

The Table, which will be staffed by

participants from our Special Needs

ministry, David’s Promise. The coffee

bar is designed to assist participants in

strengthening their life skills, adding new

opportunities and building community

with everyone who visits. While enjoying


134 W. Michigan Ave. • Jackson, MI 49201

517.782.8221 • www.JacksonChamber.org

Let CP Federal help fill in the blanks on your business needs!

800.554.7101 517.784.7101

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INCREASE FUNCTIONALITY OFFICE FUNCTIONALITY · Content written by outside sources do not reffiect the views & opinions of the JULY/AUG./SEPT. 2018 CHAMBER NEWS 1 2018 JULY /AUG. SEPT