News - March 2005 Newsletter (Articles Text)

Chairman's Award Dinner in March
Thursday, March 10, Warwick Hills Country Club

This year's Chairman's Award Dinner will be highlighting 25 people who have given much of their time, effort, and heart to be an advocate for many in the Grand Blanc and surrounding areas. The Grand Blanc Chamber of Commerce salutes these nominees:

Citizen of the Year

Hugh Clark, Richard Grovom, Susan Jacobs-Carey, Dr. Beverly Jones, Tom Pettit, Patty Rockafellow, Roxanne Usewick

Athena

Veronica Artis, Kristen Forsyth, Susan Jacobs-Carey, Bobbi Jo Lucas, Vickie Michelson, Patty, Rockafellow

Children's Hero Award

Hugh Clark Kristen Forsyth, Larry Manderville, Julie Menassaka, Patricia Metcalf, Michael Newcomb, Mike Scannel

Educator of the Year

Maralyn Bandurski, Dr. Beverly Jones, Julie Menassaka

Health Professional Hero

Dr. Jack Price, Dr. David Miller, Dr. Ann Walker

Hometown Hero

Al Serra Auto Plaza, Grand Blanc Parks and Recreation, J J Cardinals, RE/MAX Grande, UAW Local 1292

This event would not be possible without the help of our sponsors who share with us the excitement and appreciation of the unselfish efforts of the people we will be honoring March 10.

With that, the Grand Blanc Chamber of Commerce wishes to thank the following sponsors: Al Serra Auto Plaza, Dukes Communications, Blessings Plumbing and Heating, Mott Community College, University of Michigan-Flint, Bank One, SAM'S Club, HealthPlus of Michigan, Woodfield Golf & Country Club, Kettering University, and Remax Grande.

Glycocare Brings New Hope for Health Seekers

Barbara Besso RN represents Mannatech Inc., a research & development company specializing in glycobiology and the development of glyconutrients. They have multiple worldwide patents filed and issued. Mannatech holds a unique and proprietary position in the explosive nutraceutical field of Carbohydrate Technology (Glycobiolgy & Glycomics). The science behind the patented products is so solid, that many doctors, nationwide, who are strong advocates of preventive health care and optimal nutrition, have integrated these specific dietary supplements into their practice.

Barb's commitment to the products started with a life changing experience. Several doctors had diagnosed her, with a terminal disease and since starting on a program of Glyconutrient dietary supplementation her health has been restored.
For more information about Glycobiology and Glyconutrients go to the science web site:
www.glycoscience.org or call Barb at: 810-694-6127. For product information go to:
www.glycocarestore.com For business information go to: www.glycocarebusiness.com.

From the Chamber Office

A special thank you to the advertising team at The Flint Journal for all of their hard work and diligence they have put into our new membership directory. I cannot wait for you to see it. We will be sending five copies to each of you. We hope that you can use it as a resource for business connections and give a copy to some of your customers so they will have your contact information as well as a list of your fellow members that they can do business with.

Monday was my birthday and what a day it was. It started with Park Avenue Cheesecake from Susanne from the office. The raspberry is (was) excellent. We had that with coffee in the morning. At noon I met a group of friends for lunch at Pesto's for an excellent meal. That evening I was treated to another delicious meal at Woodfield with candlelight and champagne with my husband, son, mother and friends. I have to tell you we have members that are great cooks. I've decided I now need to visit my other members at Carb Counters and Contours after all that good food. Last months breakfast meeting hosted by Dan Handley was great. We had a record number of 85 people there. If you haven't been to one, you don't know what you are denying yourself. For five dollars you have a chance to network and meet some wonderful people who could end up doing business with you. In the mean time, Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Jet Kilmer, President

Bence New Team Member at Tremaine Real Estate

New chamber member, Kathleen Bence, may be new to real estate but not to the business world. With over 30 years in the retail and customer service industry, Kathleen brings a wealth of knowledge and customer service skills to Tremaine Real Estate. "I wanted the freedom and flexibility to be in business for myself. I wanted to take the experience and knowledge acquired over the years in retail and give people the kind of service needed to make one of the most important financial decisions they will ever make.," states Kathleen. She goes by the motto "treat everyone as you would like to be treated and success will follow". As in any business, customers are the "number one" priority. Tremaine Real Estate believes in this motto and strives for excellence with all customers.

Kathleen resides in the Genesee county area with her husband, David, also a chamber member. Kathleen spends her free time boating, hiking, and redecorating her northern getaway. She is excited to begin a new career with Tremaine Real Estate and works between the Grand Blanc and Fenton offices. Kathleen looks forward to making new friends and learning more about the Grand Blanc area. You may reach Kathleen at (810) 397-2780 or (810) 750-HOME.

Community Character Class Coming!

Grand Blanc Character Council and the PTO's of the Grand Blanc School District have joined to start a Community Character Project. The idea was to embrace character education and model strong character traits in our community. The first step will be to offer a class based on the book, "When No One Sees: The Importance of Character in an Age of Image," by Os Guinness. Al Powell, Director of Adult Education at First Presbyterian Church in Flint, will be presenting the eight-week class beginning March 3, 2005 from 9:15 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. in the Mason Elementary Community Room. He will explore the history and importance of character through the ages, as well as why it is so vital in today's society. The class examines the basis for character development that stands firm in the face of opposition - even when no one is looking. The class is $40 plus the cost of the book ($18) Contact Julie Nielsen at 695-8415 to register.

Metro Express Covers Grand Blanc

"Because Grand Blanc is a nexus of growth in the county," says Publisher John Lees, "we plan to showcase this area as "the 'place to be' and to detail what Grand Blanc offers in terms of residential and commercial opportunities." Metro Express is a bi-monthly four-color glossy magazine featuring events, arts, music, dining and entertainment as well as relevant area interests written by talented wordsmiths.

Metro Express attempts to let the community speak through photography as well as words. "The best way to start a story is with a good visual," says Lees, "and places like Grand Blanc are surrounded by excellent scenery which will make for some great images."

President Robbie Lees worked with his father-in-law Harry McVey and On the Town Magazine for many years. His can-do style and valuable experience make him a vital part of Metro Express. Editor-in-Chief Sherry Lees and her husband Douglas bring an element of style to the magazine with their background in interior design and fine arts. Laura Darch, pop culture specialist, helps with research and office functions. Other associates of the magazine include Terry Senecal, who also teaches at Grand Blanc Music, provides her expertise in the area of the music industry. David McCreless brings not only his diverse background as an artist and writer, but his unique perspective to the magazine. Steven Holovach, an Eagle Scout and collegian, has the youth outlook firmly in mind for his articles. In and around Grand Blanc, the magazine can be found at Oliver T's, Warwick Party Store and B. Dalton's.

Rachor, Purman & Tucker, CPAs, PLC Makes Announcements

Rachor, Purman & Tucker, CPAs, PLC is pleased to announce managing partner Timothy Purman earned his Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) certification from the Society of Certified Senior Advisors, the world's largest membership organization educating and certifying professionals who serve senior citizens. A CSA is a professional who has received a comprehensive education in the health, financial, and social issues facing senior citizens.

Purman has been a licensed Certified Public Accountant since 1976 and is also a designated Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Life Underwriter, and Chartered Financial Consultant. Purman maintains membership with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants.

In addition, Rachor, Purman, & Tucker would like to welcome two new staff accountants, Kimberly Brown and Brian Shew. Both are recent graduates of the University of Michigan-Flint. Brown currently resides in Ortonville and Shew is a resident of Grand Blanc.

Simplify Your Life With Heatherwood

Heatherwood understands life is complicated enough. That's why they're building these new one- and two-bedroom apartments with convenience-enabling amenities you'll appreciate. They have included a full-size washer and dryer so laundry can be done at home. One of the other things that make Heatherwood stand out from other apartment developments is that every apartment includes a dishwasher, walk-in closets, open floor plans and outdoor storage. Plus, all of their two-bedrooms include a second bathroom. They promise that one monthly payment covers rent, heat, hot and cold water and trash removal. For stylish apartments and uncomplicated living, call this chamber member and make Heatherwood your new home!

GBCOC Loves GBAC

According to executive director, Kathy Weiner, the Grand Blanc Arts Council was formed eight years ago for the purpose of enriching people's lives and strengthening community through the arts. Although the Arts Council continues to operate without a "home", it is able to provide a variety of programs and events with the support of dedicated volunteers and generous donors.

Since 1997 the Summer Art Fair, a signature GBAC event, has attracted artists from around the state. Venues for local artists have been added recently with ongoing art exhibits, open for public viewing, at Republic Bank (across from the Grand Mall) and at Genesys Health Park (between the second floor elevators). Other programs sponsored by the Arts Council include the "Art in the Schools" Program, which rotates framed masterpieces; the Messiah Sing-Along, which brings together singers from area churches; and the community Tree Lighting Ceremony.

New this month is "Art to Go", a program offering opportunities to carpool and share art experiences in the area. Watch the Community Sign downtown for details or call the GBAC at (810) 695-8933.

Look Good All the Time

Jodi Baese of Permanent Make Up by Jodi is very excited to be a new member of the Grand Blanc Area Chamber of Commerce. She has worked as a permanent make-up artist for the past three years and hopes to bring this wonderful new experience to Genesee County.

Permanent make up is an exiting way to correct or replace regular make up application to the eye brows, eye lids and lips. This new art form is also helpful to alopecia, or cancer patients who are looking for a way to permanently restore and enhance the eye area due to hair loss from medical treatment. The procedures last about an hour and you're free to return to work the next day. With each application a perfection session is included to achieve that individual look you call your own. Jodi operates out of the new Somerset Salon building on Lennon Rd. behind Best Buy. Jodi looks forward to helping the members of the Grand Blanc Chamber perfect their image and save time with permanent make up by Jodi. Call her at 1.989.640.2784.

Ambassador Profile - Jane Hunt Finds Rewards as  Ambassador

Being an Ambassador for the Grand Blanc Chamber of Commerce has been very rewarding over the last four years for Jane Hunt of RE/MAX Grande. She has found it is easy to give back to the Grand Blanc business community while having fun and meeting and getting to know new people.

"The monthly Chamber breakfast meetings are always educational and participating in special events has been a great way to practice team building with other Ambassadors from our business community as well as giving me an opportunity to use my "Customer Service" skills in her RE/MAX Grande real estate business. As Jane puts it, "Customer Service means that you, as my client, are #1 and your needs will be met with a high level of service in the most positive and professional manner."

Jane uses her experience in custom home construction and interior design (The Fireside Home Company, Grand Blanc, MI) to assist people in finding just the "right" property.
Jane Hunt invests the time needed to listen to your thoughts, ideas and needs for buying or selling a home. Contact Jane at 810-695-4111 or visit her website www.jbhuntrealty.com.

Plan to Celebrate Names Resident Planner by TV12

Renee Peel, owner of Plan to Celebrate was recently named Resident Event Planner by WJRT TV12 during her debut interview with them February 5, 2005. Among her other accomplishments she recently helped organize the Third Annual Detroit Docs International Film Festival on November 12, 13, and 14th at Wayne State University with 5,000 in attendance. Renee Peel of Plan to Celebrate was hired by the Executive Director of Detroit Docs to organize and decorate the gala to kick off the film festival and to assist in the structure of the entire weekend. Renee Peel decorated the gala in a film and reel theme, which showcased custom design florals. Plan to Celebrate was able to represent not only their ability to organize an event effectively, but to showcase Detroit Filmmakers and Detroit Docs in a brilliant light. Let Renee Peel, owner of Plan to Celebrate, along with her staff assist you in planning your next event with the same type of enthusiasm that was exemplified at the Detroit Film Festival. Call Plan to Celebrate at (248) 459-8721.

Did Someone Order Music?

Jump 'n Play Gym introduces The Music Class - music & movement class for parents and children birth to five years old. The Winter Session features The Bunny Collection. To teach The Music Class, Jump 'n Play Gym introduces Nickey Rosol. In addition to her professional qualifications, she's a Grand Blanc resident and mother of three.

Waclawski's "Scouting" the Grand Blanc Community

New member Robbie Waclawski, representing the Tall Pine Council, BSA, is new to the Grand Blanc area, but not to scouting or Genesee County. He has spent the past 4 years providing customer service to volunteers and the scouting community in the Northwest portion of the county as a Senior District Executive.

The Tall Pine Council serves Shiawasee, Genesee and Lapeer Counties. These counties are divided into 5 geographic sections called districts. Grand Blanc is part of the New Horizons district, which also covers Linden, Fenton, Goodrich and the Southern part of Burton.

Grand Blanc had 10 scout units in 2004, serving 863 youth. This was done with the dedicated efforts of over 250 adult volunteers. These youth and adults work together to provide countless hours of community service. The scouts in Grand Blanc alone help to collect almost 10,000 lbs. of food for the Eastern Michigan Food Bank every year.
There are many ways to support scouting in Grand Blanc. To find out how you can help, contact Robbie at 810.235.8719.

The "Young at Art" at Genesys

The annual Student Art Show encourages creative expression among youth and will be held this year at Genesys Health Park, on the second floor. Middle School art will be displayed March 14 - April 9. High School art will be displayed for scholarship competition May 22-28. Students who attend Grand Blanc schools or are residents of Grand Blanc are eligible.

Chamber Members Only - Benefits and Discounts

Members offering special opportunities to the membership that are not available to the general business community. If you are interested in becoming a Member Gold Provider, call the Chamber office at 695-4222. There are two programs: Member Gold Benefits and Gold Discounts.

BENEFITS

AAA Group Services

Hal McIntire, 694-9222
Insurance discounts offered to all qualified members

Healthplus of Michigan

Judy McMurray-Franzem, 230-2244
Health plans exclusive to Chamber members

Republic Bank

Susan Williams, 695-3940
No monthly service charge for one year on a new Select Business Checking or Small Business Checking account.

DISCOUNTS

AAA Group Services

Hal McIntire, 694-9222
Special discounts to all qualifying Chamber members

ABTEK Card Services

Credit card processor, Gina Johnson, (248) 623-4430 Free Upgrade. Waiving $45 application fee to Chamber members

Abbey Park

Jennifer Sugg - 606-1110
10% off monthly rental fee to Chamber members and their immediate family.

Alterra-Wynwood/ClareBridge of Grand Blanc NEW

Amy Shifflett, 953-7119
$500 off of the move-in fee for Chamber
members and their immediate family

Amerihost Inn

Greg Kashat, 694-0000
15% discount off standard room

American Speedy Printing

Mike Martin - 694-0701
Print 500 letterhead & 500 envelopes and receive 500 business cards FREE (In-house printing only)

Blessing Plumbing & Heating

Lou Blessing - 694-4861
No Service Charge! Save $45 to $75.
Service call charge is waived when work is performed Or 2% discount on contracted work over $2000

Discovery Toys

Nikki Davis, 603-2790
10% off any item.  Get an extra $15 in free toys when you host a party.

GCC Chiropractic of Grand Blanc, PLC

Stephan J. Smith, D.C., 694-2200
Chamber members as new patients receive initial consultation, exam and any necessary x-rays for $39.00 (Some restrictions may apply.)

Grand Blanc Eyes

Stacey Alarie O.D. - 694-3937
20% off frames with purchase of complete pair of glasses.

Genesee Valley Center

Lili Donaldson, 732-4006
Coupon Fun Book, small gift incentives and shopping bag

Grand aKIDemy Development Center, Inc.

Kathie Wind - 953-4900
Half off registration fee

Grand Blanc Spine Center, PLLC

Mark W. Morningstar D.C. 694-3576
Sign up for chiropractic care and receive all of the at-home rehabilitation equipment FREE (Up to a $290 value)

Grand Blanc Vision Clinic, P.C.

Dr. Daniel Markley, 694-3652 20% off eyeglass lenses and lens options, 20% off contact lenses (excluding disposable lenses), 20% off sun wear

Grand Oak Mortgage Company

Carolyn Landis, 695-5400
No cost pre-approval, $100 off closing costs at time of closing

Hallmark Agency,Inc.

Rhonda Mulligan, 695-0600
Special discounts on auto & home insurance to qualified Chamber members

Imagine Salon

Shannon O'Brien, 606-8234
Men receive a free scalp treatment. Women receive complementary spa treatment with haircut, complementary specialty foil technique with haircut & color, everyone gets a complementary gift.

Impact Auto Collision Inc.

Robert Zuehlke, 694-2999
FREE Aquapell windshield rain treatment
With vehicle repair - $40 value

Local Business Network

Charles Gifford 248-620-6320
$50 off initial membership dues payment of $200.
(Net for Chamber members is therefore $150.)

Marx Locksmith Service

Kathy or Marc Dearing, 244-4038
10% discount on any service to Chamber members

Mary Kay Products

Yvette Williams, 603-3250
10% discount on all products for
Chamber members.

National Self Storage - Grand Blanc

Jamie Jacobs 694-1500
20% off all boxes and moving supplies

Premier Bancard Merchant Services

Perry Tse (810) 606-0200
Visa/Master Card bankcard processing rates 1.74% + $.25 per transaction, no set up fee, no monthly minimums

Prestige Promotions

Sandra Kelley, 953-0782
Take advantage of their monthly specials
for Chamber members only!

Promotice-Promotional Products Distributor

Christine Newcomb, (248)505-4297
5% Discount on all new promotional products, award and gift orders of $100 or more.

Superior Travel Service

Barb Grzeskowiak - 695-6170
Travel savers Club benefit & special pricing plus
Reduced service fee to Chamber members

The Flint Journal

Stacey Thom, 766-6471
Members have the opportunity to run an ad in the "Chamber Buzz" once per month at a special discounted rate in the Grand Blanc Community Newspaper.

The State Bank

Kim Cadieux, 695-9623
Consumer loans .25% rate reduction & $50 off processing fee. Mortgage loans, free appraisal on residential mortgage loans. Bankcard Merchant Account - $75 off merchant application fee and discounted rates. Any new business checking account open - one free endorsement stamp.

Timothy Michael's Salon

Suzanne McDermaid - 606-0248
Free Consultations, complementary paraffin
hand treatment with any color service
Members receive gift with first salon visit

Venos Insurance

Peter Venos 694-1317
Health plans exclusive to Chamber members. Discounts on auto & home insurance to qualified Chamber members.

Wingate Inn

Gloria Walli, 694-9900
15% discount off standard room

Calendar Updates

Friday, March 4, 2005
Breakfast Meeting
7:30am Damon's
Speaker: PJ Danhoff, Buick Open

Wednesday, March 9, 2005
Ambassador Meeting
8:00am
Hometown America

Chairman's Dinner
Thursday, March 10, 2005
Warwick Hills Country Club
Wednesday, March 23, 2005

Board Meeting
12:00
TBA

Chamber Issues Committee
Meeting every Monday
Damon's 12:00 noon

Chamber Golf Outing
Monday, June 20, 2005
Woodfield Country Club

Taste of Grand Blanc
Thursday, July 21, 2005
Woodfield, Country Club

Check out the Chamber website calendar for more activities and events.

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