Economic forecast at January GML
 David L. Littmann is the keynote speaker for the chamber’s annual Economic Forecast edition of Good Morning Livingston. He is the senior economist with the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, a research and educational institute headquartered in Midland, Michigan that is the largest state-based free-market think tank in the country. The event takes place Tuesday, January 11 at 7:30 a.m. at the Johnson Center at Cleary University, 3750 Cleary Drive in Howell.
Littmann will present his forecast for 2011, including state and national trends as well as an outlook on manufacturing, retail, housing and real estate markets.
“In the current economic climate, it is critical for business professionals to arm themselves with information so they can be proactive in adapting to variable conditions,” said Pat Convery, chamber president. “Chamber members are invited to hear what promises to be valuable insight to the coming year. David Littmann is an esteemed speaker in his field and we encourage everyone to get their reservations in early for this important program.”
Littmann received his M.A. degree in economics from the University of Michigan in 1967. He holds an S.M. degree in economics from M.I.T. and a B.A. degree in economics from Antioch College, and completed a year of study as an exam student at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
Littmann retired from Comerica Bank in early 2005 as senior vice president and chief economist after a 35-year career in charge of Comerica’s Economics Department and Research Library. He authored a host of business barometers and developed many leading indicators for the local and national economies and from tourism to the auto industry.
Littmann received the 2003 Lawrence R. Klein Award for Blue Chip Forecast Accuracy. This is one of the most prestigious and long-standing awards in the profession. It recognizes the best four-year economic forecast in the nation. His research articles on the causes of inflation were published in Business Economics, the professional journal of the National Association of Business Economists.
For three decades, Littmann was a featured columnist for the Detroit Regional Chamber. The Wall Street Journal, The Detroit News and dBusiness Magazine continue publishing his editorials, and his book reviews appear in Ideas On Liberty, the journal of the Foundation for Economic Education.
Littmann served as chairman of the Economic Advisory Committee of the American Bankers Association in Washington, D.C., where he met regularly with governors of the Federal Reserve Board.
The cost for the January Good Morning Livingston is $20 for chamber members with reservations; $25 at the door; and $30 for non-members. Reservations should be made by Thursday, January 6 by registering online at howell.org or by calling the chamber at 517.546.3920.
Reserve your place among the stars at the annual dinner
 Celebrate the Fantasy of Lights Parade on Friday, November 26 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. in downtown Howell. The nighttime parade starts at 7 p.m. Wish Kids and their families will enjoy fun, activities and a ride on the snow court float as the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce and the Make-A-Wish Foundation partner for this great day. The snow court float is sponsored by Irish Construction.
We hope Wednesday, January 26 is highlighted on your 2011 calendar; and we hope you will join us at the 54th Annual Dinner and Citizen of the Year awards held that night at Crystal Gardens - Livingston.
Advanced reservations can be made at howell.org. Cost to attend is $55 per person. Tables of eight are available for $430 or $510 for a table of ten.
Guests will enjoy complimentary appetizers from Crystal Gardens. Dinner includes a baby arugula and spinach salad, stuffed filet with chicken strudel and roasted garlic whipped potatoes. Dessert is chocolate cheesecake.
In addition to the great food and hospitality, chamber members and their guests will be recognized. The evening ends with an awards ceremony honoring business and community leaders including the announcement of the prestigious 2010 Citizen of the Year.
Another festivity of the dinner is a centerpiece silent auction to benefit non-profit organizations. Businesses, non-profit organizations and individuals can design a centerpiece for display that evening. Guests will bid on the centerpieces in a benefit for the designated charity. The centerpiece can be incorporated with a business or organization identity, if desired.
Thanks to these organizations that have already donated a centerpiece –Lafontaine Automotive Group, Linda Barnwell, Keller Williams, Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions. Proceeds from the football, signed by players including #90 rookie Ndamukong Suh, will benefit the Howell Area Chamber Foundation. To see photos of the silent auction items, visit howell.org.
The dinner is sponsored by Saint Joseph Mercy Livingston Hospital.
For more information on the event or centerpiece silent auction, contact Michelle Tokan at mtokan@howell.org or 517.546.3920.
Holiday Open House a hit
 Hundreds of chamber members and guests enjoyed the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce annual Holiday Open House Friday evening, December 3.
The sparkling evening featured live entertainment with piano by Steve Devereaux, delicious refreshments, great networking and more, in the chamber building decked out for the season.
It was also a chance for chamber member companies to show off their ability to create outstanding holiday food and decorations. Many thanks to the following chamber members for their generous contributions that were enjoyed by all the attendees at this year’s Holiday Open House: Applebee’s; Bella’s Market; Bob Evans Restaurant; Buffalo Wild Wings; C.C. Catering; Cleary’s Pub; Country Lane Flower Shops; Copper Pickle Deli & Market; Crystal Gardens-Livingston; Diamond’s Steak & Seafood; Harry and David; Howell Village Market; Howell’s Mainstreet Winery; Jonna’s Market; Kensington Inn of Howell; Medilodge; Mr. B’s Rustic Tavern; Outback Steakhouse; Pure & Simple Catering Services; Snedicor’s Cleaners LTD.; VG’s;and Wal-Mart Supercenter.
The large tree in the chamber lobby was decorated and designed by Country Lane Flower Shops. The tree is enjoyed by all who visit the chamber throughout the holiday season.
“We enjoyed a delightful evening among friends and business associates, and many thanks go to our members for their generosity with the wonderful food and lovely decorations,” said Pat Convery, president of the chamber. “The annual holiday open house is a special night and the chamber’s way of celebrating the holidays and the blessings of the year with all our members. Special appreciation goes to Janie Willsmore who coordinates this yearly event and the chamber staff for their assistance in creating a night to remember.”
Social Media Webinar Series for Business Professionals
Social media sites like Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn are a staple in the diet of business professionals to help build relationships and network with leads, customers and colleagues. However, many are unaware of the great power of social media as true business tools.
Through its affiliation with the Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals, the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce is offering to chamber members a series of low-cost webinars dedicated to teach business professionals how to best utilize social media. The series concludes in January with three webinars dedicated to Twitter.
Participants may register for any one or all of the three sessions, even if schedules conflict on the dates of a specific webinar. Registered attendees will receive a link to later view the webinars.
Twitter Webinar Series: January 5, 12, 19 from 11 a.m. – noon
Attend this series of three 1-hour webinars to learn how to leverage Twitter as a communication tool that can build business and increase website traffic. Discounted price: $25
Just like the water cooler, Twitter is a bunch of short conversations with various people throughout the day. The topics are a mixture of things, from national, local or company news, to tips, ideas, advice and gossip about others. Create a Twitter account to join the conversations, find out what others are saying about you, collaborate with new people, and start promoting your own ideas.
Webinar 1: Creating a Professional Twitter Account
January 12, 11 a.m. – noon
Learn tips and strategies to a successful twitter account, including the username, profile information, profile image and background design.
Webinar 2: Understanding Twitter Anatomy
January 19, 11 a.m. – noon
Learn how twitter works with tweeting, searching, retweeting, hashtags, direct messages and mobile access.
Webinar 3: Tweeting Like a Pro
January 26, 11 a.m. – noon
Learn tips and strategies to tweeting, following, followers and security.
Attendee Networking
Attendees are invited to join the private Subgroup “Twitter” in the LinkedIn Group "Social Media Webinar Series for Business Professionals 2010" to network with other attendees before, during and after the Twitter webinar series. This networking is exclusive to registered attendees.
Registration for the Twitter Series (3 webinars)
Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Member Cost: $25 (Regular price $60)
Discount code: HOWELL (to use when registering to get $35 off)
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Training funds available to local workers
Do you have a few outstanding employees who need training? Here’s an opportunity that’s not to be missed.
In a program just announced through Livingston County Michigan Works! and the Livingston County Workforce Development Council, local employers can apply for up to $5,000 of incumbent worker funds to train small numbers of employees. Open enrollment programs offered by community colleges, private or public universities, Michigan Technical Education Centers (M-TECs) or private training vendors may be eligible for approval through the plan.
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis and will be reviewed weekly through an expedited process. Funding decisions will be made within 10 working days of submission. Funds are limited and will be awarded on a first come, first-served basis so businesses are encouraged to act quickly. The application process for employers is estimated to take approximately one hour to complete.
Per state and federal policy, incumbent worker training programs must be targeted to specific employers or industries that are experiencing a decline and have the potential to undergo layoffs. Incumbent worker training must meet one of the following requirements:
· Incumbent Worker training must be designed to avert layoffs, or
· Must be job specific retraining related to layoff aversion, or
· Must be new organizational strategies designed to avert layoffs.
Incumbent worker funds cannot be used to train workers where there is no foreseeable threat of layoffs.
Priority in the review process will be given to:
· Companies referred by the Economic Development Council of Livingston County and/or the Michigan Economic Development Corporation
· Companies who need training to reduce or avoid layoffs, or to prevent relocation or closure.
· Companies who are willing to commit their own resources to the training program.
Program requirements:
· Companies can submit up to two requests per year, with a maximum award of $5,000 per year.
· Cost per trainee should be $1,500 or less.
· Companies with existing incumbent worker grants are not eligible to apply
· Trainees must submit a Training Information Form to Livingston County Michigan Works! prior to start of the training program. The form contains identifying and demographic data on the trainee which is required by federal regulations.
· Companies receiving grant awards must agree to post job openings on the Michigan Talent Bank.
For more information and to request an application, contact Kristin Angel Carson at Lansing Community College’s Business & Community Institute at 517.483.1741 or angelk@lcc.edu or Bill Sleight at Livingston County Michigan Works! at wsleight@co.livingston.mi.us.
Start the New Year off with an energy boost for you and your business at Lunch & Learn
Learn how to increase energy, efficiency and just get that spark back at the next Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation Lunch & Learn. The program, “How to find 14 hours of energy for your 12-hour day: For high energy people stuck in low energy bodies,” takes place Wednesday, January 19 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the chamber foundation building, 123 E. Washington Street in Howell.
Join Dr. Dan Geck at this eye-opening event as he discusses why the body slows down and the steps to take to turn this problem in the other direction. Geck, who is affiliated with Advanced Integrative Wellness Center in Howell, has been in practice in clinical nutrition and chiropractic and focuses on finding the underlying nutritional causes to chronic symptom patterns such as fatigue, trouble sleeping, thyroid symptoms and weight gain, among others. He uses nutrition to rebuild the body and helps people balance hormones and energy to live a healthier, happier life. He has been a keynote speaker all over Southeast Michigan.
“Energy – or lack thereof – can greatly impact performance at work and in personal situations. The New Year is a wise time to find out ways to boost your energy and help you get the most out of every day, at home and at work. Add this informative and engaging program to your list of New Year’s goals,” said Pat Convery, chamber president.
The cost is $20 and includes lunch and program materials; please note reservations are binding. Register online at howell.org or call the chamber at 517.546.3920 to R.S.V.P.
Spotlight in the News: Hammond & Oliver P.C.
 Hammond & Oliver P.C. is a full-service law firm located in downtown Howell at 407 E. Grand River Avenue. The firm specializes in cases involving chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcy, family law, real estate, estate planning, probate, criminal, personal injury, corporate, social security and workers’ compensation.
Hammond & Oliver has been in business for nine years, and the firm prides itself on client services. “We treat clients like family members with respect, dignity and professionalism,” said William Oliver, vice president and partner.
Oliver said the firm takes great care to communicate effectively with clients to help relieve some of the stress and anxiety the client may be experiencing by being involved in the legal system.
“We are also very careful to make sure that if someone is referred to us that the referring party looks good for sending us the client – we ensure this by going above and beyond for each client,” he said.
For more information on Hammond & Oliver P.C., contact Oliver or David Hammond at 517.552.9577 or 877.529.4100 toll free.
The Spotlight in the News business is selected from those attending the chamber’s most recent New Member Welcome.
Celebrations
 Anytime Fitness is hosting a grand opening and ribbon cutting at its new location in Howell, located in the Highland Ridge Shopping Center,980 W. Highland Road (M-59) across from Howell High School.
The grand opening will take place Thursday, January 20 through Saturday, January 22. A ribbon cutting will be held January 20 from 6 – 7 p.m., and festivities include tours of the facility, refreshments, networking and more.
To celebrate its grand opening, Anytime Fitness is offering $0 enrollment and two months of free membership dues. The new facility offers access 24 hours a day, seven days a week, every day of the year. Members use a security-access key to enter the club, even when it is not staffed. Once inside, members have full use of strength training and cardiovascular equipment. Certified Personal Trainers are on staff and memberships include a fitness evaluation and equipment orientation. Private showers and dressing areas are also available at the club.
Unemployment Statistics
Unemployment Statistics
(not seasonally adjusted)
Local and statewide
Oct. 10 Sept. 10 Oct. 09
Livingston County 10.9% 10.9% 12.5%
State of Michigan 12.0% 12.3% 13.7%
Source: Michigan Dept. of Labor and Economic Growth
Members Moving Forward
Share your business news with chamber members! Have some new faces recently joined your team? Does your business have a grand opening coming up? Is your business moving, adding new products or services, or celebrating an anniversary?
If so, the chamber wants to know. Send your Moving Forward member news for consideration to cdonovan@howell.org. Submissions can come in the form of press releases or announcements, and the chamber reserves the right to edit articles for length and content.
For more information, call 517.546.3920.
Borek Jennings Funeral Home, Lamb Chapel
Borek Jennings Funeral Home, Lamb Chapel is partnering with the Marine Corp League for their 15th annual Toys for Tots program. Local libraries in the surrounding area will serve as collection sites for new, unwrapped toys and Borek Jennings Funeral Home, Lamb Chapel has pledged a donation to the participating libraries. For more information call 517.546.0100 or visit borekjennings.com.
Child Connect for Family Success
The Livingston 4C Council has changed its name to Child Connect for Family Success. The private non-profit United Way agency supports children and families by developing a quality early childhood care and education system in Livingston County. For more information call 517.548.9112 or visit childcare4c.com.
Citizens Insurance
Citizens Insurance recently received the 2010 Outstanding Service Award by the Livingston County Workforce Development Council for its support of several community services that make an impact on the county’s current and future workforce. Citizens Insurance offers a full line of personal insurance solutions as well as business insurance products and services. For more information call 517.546.2160 or visit hanover.com.
D.H. Wolverton Insurance Agency LLC
D. H. Wolverton Insurance Agency LLC has moved to its new location at 3075 East Grand River Avenue, Suite 112. The firm provides insurance for auto, home, business, life, health, medicare, and annuities. Phone and fax remain the same at 517.540.1278 and 517.580.5104 respectively.
Family Resource Center
The Family Resource Center, formerly the Women’s Resource Center, is celebrating its 30th anniversary. The non-profit organization has expanded its current services to include additional research-based programs designed to strengthen the entire family. For more information call 517.548.2200 or visit its new website at familyresourceliv.org.
Five Sparrows, LLC
Five Sparrows, LLC has created and launched its new Instant Quote feature that enables web visitors to select their website requirements including number of sub pages, additional web features as well as hosting services, search engines and more. Quotes are submitted online and the customer receives a customized estimate via email. For more information call 810.923.1874 or visit fivesparrows.com.
Genesis House
Lee Kellogg, Director of Genesis House, recently received the 2010 Outstanding Workforce Development Professionals award by the Livingston County Workforce Development Council. Genesis House provides a Transitional Employment (TE) program in which members have the opportunity to work part time at community businesses for competitive wages. For more information call 517.223.1393 or visit genesisliv.org.
Howell Carnegie District Library
Howell Carnegie District Library has been selected as an AccessPoint for MichiganWorks. The computer lab will be open Thursdays from 5 - 7 p.m. beginning December 2nd. Persons seeking employment will be able to work on their resumes, look for employment and more. Library reference staff members will be on hand to assist with using the website tools. For more information call Jerilee Cook at 517.546.0720, extension 104 or cook@howelllibrary.org.
Howell Public Schools
Mary Benear, one of 18 nominees, has been named the district’s Support Person of the Year for 2010-2011. Benear is a hall monitor and assists in coordinating athletic events at Howell High School and has been in the district for 11 years. For more information call 517.548.6200 or visit howellschools.com.
Livingston Arts Council/The Opera House
Livingston Arts Council/The Opera House is hosting its winter concert series, Acoustic Café, beginning Friday, January 7 at 7:30 p.m. Acoustic Café offers a mix of easy-listening musical entertainment including folk, jazz and light rock at The Opera House in downtown Howell. For more information call 517.540.0065 or visit theoperahouse.us.
In other news, the third Annual Runway Repurposed program will be held Saturday, February 5, 2011 at 2 p.m. at the Opera House in Howell. The fundraising event combines the art of fashion design and recycled clothing and fabric, and is open to participants of all ages. The event includes a pre-show reception, silent auction, awards, door prizes and more. For more information call 517.540.0065 or visit theoperahouse.us.
Mott Community College-Livingston M-TEC
Mott Community College-Livingston M-TEC is offering free training in supply chain technologies including radio frequency identification, import/export, warehouse and distribution, and border security issues. For more information call 517.552.2163 or visit livingstonmtec.org.
Prudential Heritage Real Estate
Heritage GMAC Real Estate has changed its name to Prudential Heritage Real Estate. The firm is a full-service real estate brokerage with offices in Brighton, Fowlerville, Howell and Williamston. For more information call 517.546.6440 or visit prudentialheritage.com.
Sanctuary at Woodland, A Trinity Senior Living Community
Sanctuary at Woodland, A Trinity Senior Living Community, located at 7533 West Grand River Avenue in Brighton, is a Toys for Tots drop-site. New, unwrapped toys can be dropped off anytime day or night now through December 18. For more information call 810.844.7474.
Timothy L. Williams & Associates, P.C.
Adrienne Knack recently passed the bar and has become an associate of the firm. Knack focuses her practice on estate planning and probate, taxation, corporate and business law, non-competition covenants, trade secret and intellectual property, including trade marks, service-marks, licensing and development issues. For more information call 810.534.0700 or visit tlwilliamsandassociates.com.
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