November 2007 Vol. 5 No - jacksonchamber.org · November 2007 Vol. 5 No.10 141 South Jackson Street...
4
November 2007 Vol. 5 No.10 141 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 Teri Ogg* Chairman Aaron Boatin* Secretary Robert Smith* Treasurer John Crist* Past Chairman Paul Buchholz* Vice Chairman Carolyn Anderson Ric Walton H. Ronald Griffith* Bart Hawley Henry Jones Andy Longenberger Daniel Machnik Andy Mercer Bob Michaels Tony Mira Dale Moretz* Daniel Phelan Donn Roberts Nancy Robidoux William Ross Allen Spiess, Jr.* Craig Tapley Jan Taylor Randy Treacher John Waldron Mindy Bradish* President *Executive Committee Board of Directors Chamber Staff Mindy Bradish President [email protected] Kara Beer Program and Special Events Manager [email protected] Jessica Mitchell Membership and Communications Coordinator [email protected] Mary Schuessler Accountant [email protected] Dana Keep Receptionist [email protected] In this issue... President's Corner ..............................................................2 Welcome New Members....................................................3 Member News/Calendar of Events....................................5 GJCC Fights For Local Businesses The 2008 state budget: is it good or bad for local busi- nesses? It depends on whom you talk to. Michigan’s budget: increases the state’s personal income tax to 4.35%, • expands the state’s sales tax to approximately 60 services, • had nearly $440 million in cuts. • The governor’s office says the combination of taxes is expected to cost the average person approximately $1 per week. Taxes "This budget crisis required a comprehensive solution of cuts, reforms, and revenues,” said Senator Mark Schauer, Senate Democratic leader, serving Jackson and Calhoun coun- ties. “The tax options were difficult choices to make, but they will allow us to invest in our communities and workforce in a way that will help Michigan and the Jackson area retain and attract jobs." Some business owners aren’t too sure. “This (sales) tax is a slippery slope that will eventually lead to further taxa- tion on labor,” said Ted Christoff of Christoff & Sons Floor Covering Inc. “This is not the direction that will encourage companies to come to Michigan and certainly will not en- courage growth within our industry.” Christoff says since the categories of businesses affected are vague, he believes the legislature will add more services to be taxed as they clarify it. The sales tax will affect Christoff’s business and oth- ers such as interior design, landscaping, and personal care ser- vices such as massages and manicures. Wilcox Lawn and Landscaping, of Brooklyn, has had many phone calls from customers asking how this will change their business. “We’re signing as many contracts as possible now-before the sales tax takes effect on December 1,” said Jeff Slat, vice president. “A lot of our customers say they won’t use our services next year.” Budget Cuts Legislators also approved nearly $440 mil- lion in budget cuts, includ- ing changes to state prisons’ food services, a 1.1% rate cut for Medicaid providers and eliminating funding in- creases for the state’s com- munity colleges and universities. Reforms Legislators agreed to a series of government reforms, including significant changes to the teacher health care sys- tem, a graded premium requirement for public school employ- ees, and an end to public employee double-dipping. The Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce will keep members updated as clarifications and repeal legislation information becomes available. “This (sales) tax is a slippery slope that will eventually lead to further taxation on la- bor,” said Ted Christ- off of Christoff & Sons Floor Covering Inc. BUSINESS NEWS
Transcript of November 2007 Vol. 5 No - jacksonchamber.org · November 2007 Vol. 5 No.10 141 South Jackson Street...
November 2007 Vol . 5 No.10
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
Teri Ogg*Chairman
Aaron Boatin*Secretary
Robert Smith*Treasurer
John Crist*Past Chairman
Paul Buchholz*Vice Chairman
Carolyn Anderson
Ric Walton
H. Ronald Griffith*
Bart Hawley
Henry Jones
Andy Longenberger
Daniel Machnik
Andy Mercer
Bob Michaels
Tony Mira
Dale Moretz*
Daniel Phelan
Donn Roberts
Nancy Robidoux
William Ross
Allen Spiess, Jr.*
Craig Tapley
Jan Taylor
Randy Treacher
John WaldronMindy Bradish*
President
*Executive Committee
Board of Directors
Chamber StaffMindy Bradish
Kara BeerProgram and Special Events Manager
Jessica MitchellMembership and Communications
Mary Schuessler
Dana KeepReceptionist
In this issue...President's Corner..............................................................2
Welcome New Members....................................................3
Member News/Calendar of Events....................................5
GJCC Fights For Local Businesses The 2008 state budget: is it good or bad for local busi-nesses? It depends on whom you talk to. Michigan’s budget:
increases the state’s personal income tax to 4.35%, •expands the state’s sales tax to approximately 60 services,•had nearly $440 million in cuts.•
Thegovernor’sofficesaysthecombinationoftaxesis expected to cost the average person approximately $1 per week.
Taxes "This budget crisis required a comprehensive solution of cuts, reforms, and revenues,” said Senator Mark Schauer, Senate Democratic leader, serving Jackson and Calhoun coun-ties.“Thetaxoptionsweredifficultchoicestomake,buttheywill allow us to invest in our communities and workforce in a way that will help Michigan and the Jackson area retain and attract jobs." Some business owners aren’t too sure. “This (sales) tax is a slippery slope that will eventually lead to further taxa-tion on labor,” said Ted Christoff of Christoff & Sons Floor Covering Inc. “This is not the direction that will encourage companies to come to Michigan and certainly will not en-courage growth within our industry.” Christoff says since the categories of businesses affected are vague, he believes the legislature will add more services to be taxed as they clarify it. The sales tax will affect Christoff’s business and oth-ers such as interior design, landscaping, and personal care ser-vices such as massages and manicures. Wilcox Lawn and Landscaping, of Brooklyn, has
had many phone calls from customers asking how this will change their business. “We’re signing as many contracts as possible now-before the sales tax takes effect on December 1,” said Jeff Slat, vice president. “A lot of our customers say they won’t use our services next year.”
Budget Cuts Legislators also approved nearly $440 mil-lion in budget cuts, includ-ing changes to state prisons’ food services, a 1.1% rate cut for Medicaid providers and eliminating funding in-creases for the state’s com-munity colleges and universities.
Reforms Legislators agreed to a series of government reforms, includingsignificantchanges to the teacherhealthcaresys-tem, a graded premium requirement for public school employ-ees, and an end to public employee double-dipping. The Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce will keepmembersupdatedasclarificationsandrepeallegislationinformation becomes available.
“This (sales) tax is a slippery slope that will eventually lead to further taxation on la-bor,” said Ted Christ-off of Christoff & Sons Floor Covering Inc.
Lorem Ipsum 7000 Dolor excia
BUSINESS NEWS
President’s Corner by Mindy Bradish
2 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce November 2007 November 2007 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce 7
With Thanksgiving right around the corner, I think it’s time we stop and acknowledge all the good news that is happening in Jackson and thank those who work countless hours toward creating good news. Fortunately, there is too much good
news to cover in one little article, so I will focus on just a few Jackson area happenings and challenge you to find the rest … or better yet, go create some.
Northpointe Town Center The Ramco/Gershenson, Inc. project (“Northpointe Town Center”) has overcome numerous hurdles and should actually break ground this month. This 560,000 square feet project will sit on approximately 68 acres and be located North of I-94 and West of US 127. It will include three retail anchors, five mid-box retailers, smaller retail space and restaurants, offices and a 16-plex cinema. The project is expected to bring 1,000 jobs to the Jackson area and millions of dollars in tax revenue.
Armory Arts Village After years of planning, fundraising and construction, the Armory Arts Village is expected to open its doors to residents and the community by the end of 2007. Located on the historic site of the original 19th century Jackson State Prison, the Armory Arts Village is designed to serve as a catalyst for community revitalization and an engine for economic growth. Phase one of the development features affordable live/work space tailored to meet the needs of
Constructed by Cunningham Construction Co. Tenecco Automotive - Corporate Facilities Renovation
Greater Jackson Chamber Thankful for Good News & Good News Makers
emerging artists, musicians, designers, craftsmen and other creatives with the passion and commitment to turn their creativity into micro-enterprises, small businesses and other entrepreneurial ventures. JAMA Jackson Area Manufacturers Association’s training program Academy for Manufacturing Careers is so successful that it needs more space. The training program is designed by manufacturers to meet the needs of Jackson, Hillsdale, and Lenawee County manufacturers and is certified as a Registered Apprenticeship Program by the U.S. Dept. of Labor’s Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training (USDOL-BAT). Classes are open to anyone, offered when they’re needed and where they’re needed and completed in weeks. Most courses automatically earn college credit at one or more area institutions at no additional cost.
I could continue on about the works of many Jackson businesses and associations, but there simply isn’t room. Thank you to those who strive to make Jackson the place to live, work and play. The Greater Jackson Chamber continually works to promote our members. The value of your membership is the work the Chamber does each day and how you choose to use the membership. We encourage you to get involved to get the most out of your membership. If you know of someone who is not yet a member of the Chamber, please let us know so they too can benefit from Chamber membership.
ThAnK yOu!to the november
Membership RenewalsABC Academy
American Fidelity Group, LTD.Arbonne InternationalAt-A-Moments Notice
A.T.O.M. CommunicationsAware, Inc.
Collection Data Services, Inc.Detail Man
Divinity Design StudioERA Reardon Realty
Fifth Third Bank, Downtown Banking CenterGreat Lakes Graphics Inc.
Larry’s RV Center, Inc.LaSalle Bank Midwest/Airport Rd.
Kenneth J. Miller, LUTCFPCY International
Rapid Refill InkSenator Randy Richardville
Senator Mark SchauerShively-Bouma, Inc.
Spirit Martial Arts AcademySt. Luke Lutheran ChurchStudio One PhotographySylvan Learning Center
Technique, Inc.Time Plus Payroll Service
Print & Design For Modern TimesLally Group, PC“Trusted Service for a Confident Tomorrow.”
Principals: David Palmer Steven Patch
Jon Nowinski Lance Knapp Nathan Eads
Lally, Cummings, Palmer, and Patch, CPA’s, P.C. has changed its name to…
Lally Group, PC 110 1ST Street Jackson, MI 49201
(517) 787-0064 www.lallycpa.com
AD_12689
A caring place to call Home!
Independent Semi- Assisted Assisted Living
517-750-0500 www.gantonretirement.com
The Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce (GJCC) is a vol-untary partnership of business and community leaders and residents working together to build a healthy economy and to improve the quality of life in Jackson. The Chamber was estab-lished in 1909 because businesses have greater impact, and are more effective, when working in unison. The GJCC’s mission is to be the leading driver and advocate for community and economic development in Jackson County.
6 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce November 2007 November 2007 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce 3
Clearly different.
Call Now517.817.1720
Working For Jackson Small Business
Economic Club Luncheon Alternative Fuels and the Impact on Jackson
Welcome New MembersAction TelecommunicationsWilliam Kingsley4073 Kellar Rd.Holt, MI 48842
CTX MortgageDale Grimes270 W. Courtland Ste. BJackson, MI 49201
English MeadowsLouise Stewart3977 Sherwood Lakes Blvd.Jackson, MI 49201
G & C Sales LLCJames Breining385 Washington St.Chelsea, MI 48118
Landstar HomesRoy Chebli3310 Buckthorn CircleJackson, MI 49201
Liberty TitleMonica Mays2000 Spring Arbor Rd. Ste. DJackson, MI 49203
Priority HealthKristen Edwards100 E. Michigan Ave. Ste. 320Jackson, MI 49201
Suburban Lanes of JacksonRon Daniels3801 Ann Arbor Rd.Jackson, MI 49202
Suburban Self StorageFred Hetherwick227 Hackett St.Jackson, MI 49202
Universal InsuranceServices, Inc.Janis Ross648 Monroe Ave. NWSuite 300Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Walnut RidgeSaundra Foreman3201 Hawthorn Dr.Jackson, MI 49201
MeMber Spotlight Arbonne International
Arbonne International is a botanically-based health and wellness company, specializing in anti-aging skin care, aromatherapy, nutritional supplements, color cosmetics and weight loss.
Because of the natural ingredients in Arbonne products, they appeal to most people that are interested inimprovingtheirhealth.Theseproductsarepure,safe,andbeneficial,butmostimportantly,theywork,saysowner Laura Blades.
This is her second year as a Chamber Member. Laura joined to increase her exposure to the Jackson community. Arbonne is based out of her home in Grass Lake and the Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce appealed to her since Jackson is a larger community but close to home.
Arbonne has specials right now. If you order during November or December, you’ll receive 25% off all products. Laura has a line of Christmas gifts, including gift baskets. Contact her at (734) 428-7148, [email protected] or www.arbonne.com.
COMMERCIAL EXChAnGEWarehouse Space & Office Space Available
www.thecommercialexchange.com517/782-9305517/782-9306
Monday, November 12, 2007 Registration at 11:30 a.m.
Steve's Ranch (311 W. Louis Glick Hwy.)$20 for Chamber Members; $40 for Non-Members
Since 1970, Mercer has impacted the Jackson area by his company's multi-state general contracting business, petroleum sales, installation and service, electrical contracting, RYKO car wash distributors, sales, installation and service.
A life-long resident of Jackson County, Mercer serves on a number of local boards and is a member of Governor Granholm's Renewable Fuels Commission.
For more information on this Economic Club luncheon, contact the Chamber at 517/782-8221 or email your reservations to [email protected].
by Kirk MercerPresident and Owner,
R.W. Mercer Company
Presented by the Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Club of Jackson.
4 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce November 2007 November 2007 Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce 5
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!
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…
Business After Hours
As the weather gets colder, the Chamber’s Business After Hours are set to energize you.
November 1
TDS Metrocom will host the event at Daryl’s Downtown, 151 W. Michigan Avenue. Enjoy wonderful food and jazz music.
November 15
Join The Answer at 3708 Wildwood Avenue. Learn how to be well, feel better and have more energy. Enjoy their great-tasting smoothies and you can even get a four-minute total body workout. They have The Answer to healthier living.
The Chamber asks that you RSVP to these events. Call 517/782-8221 or email [email protected]. Business After Hours are free for members to attend. Non-members must pay $10.
Calendar of EventsNovember 2007
November 1 5-7 pm Business After Hours TDS Metrocom Daryl’s Downtown 151 W. Michigan Ave.
November 7 8-10 am Leadership Academy Session 5 SAU-downtown Jackson Site 113 W. Michigan Ave.
November 7 3-5 pm Ribbon Cutting Bearclaw Coffee Co. 2003 Horton Rd.
November 8 7:30 am Image Committee Chamber Office 141 S. Jackson
November 9 7:30 am Legislative Committee Bella Notte Ristorante 137 W. Michigan Ave.
November 9 Noon Ambassador Committee Chamber Office 141 S. Jackson
November 12 11 am Sister City Committee Chamber Office 141 S. Jackson
November 12 11:30 am Economic Club Luncheon Steve’s Ranch 311 W. Louis Glick Hwy.
November 13 4:30 pm Leadership Academy Committee Chamber Office 141 S. Jackson
November 15 5-7 pm Business After Hours The Answer 3708 Wildwood Ave.
November 16 7:30 am Economic Club Committee Chamber Office 141 S. Jackson
November 21 8-10 am Leadership Academy Session 6 SAU-downtown Jackson Site 113 W. Michigan Ave.
November 22 & 23 Chamber Office closed
November 27 7:30 am Good Morning! Greater Jackson Bella Notte Ristorante 137 W. Michigan Ave.
November 30 Noon Member Orientation Chamber Office 141 S. Jackson
AnnuAl MeetingJanuary 24, 2008
5:30 PMJCC's Potter Center
Recognizing the business community's successes
of the past year!
Save The Date!
C R E D I T U N I O N
The Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce has been updating your business's records.
Please take a moment to ensure that you have the Chamber's correct address:
141 S. Jackson St.P.O. Box 889
Jackson, MI 49204-0889
