Mason Area Chamber of Commerce | February 2023
*Photo Credit: Vision Real Estate
Mid-Month Update!
**Do you have news to share? Email news and announcements to:
amy@masonchamber.org!
UPCOMING EVENTS!

February 16th - Mason Business Expo
February 23nd - Good Morning Mason
March 11th - Commercial Bank Red Carpet Gala
March 16th - MACC Annual Awards Dinner
May 6th - Spring Fling
Good Morning Mason! is a Chamber event with a quick-paced agenda of local news and community updates. Two-minute reports are given by select officials, sponsors, community members, and new businesses.

$5 admission for MACC members
$8 admission for non-members
Admission includes a continental breakfast
Admission is paid at the door. Cash, check, Visa/Mastercard accepted.
Invoices are available at business level or above.
NEWS FROM YOUR CHAMBER!
CHAMBER OFFICE - The Mason Area Chamber of Commerce office is open Tuesday - Friday 9 am - 2 pm. However, we are periodically out of the office for member appointments, please call the office at 517-676-1046 as needed.

CHAMBER VOLUNTEERS: WE NEED YOU!! MACC is in need of volunteers to assist at each of the events we host. Please let us know if we can add you to our list to receive notification via Sign-Up-Genius for alerts when we need help. And feel free to let your friends and co-workers know of this opportunity. Volunteering at our events is an excellent opportunity for you to network with others in our community. Please contact the MACC at masonchamber@masonchamber.org if you are interested in volunteering.

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS: The Chamber community extends a warm welcome to our newest members: **Michigan Septic, LLC, Lark Farms, Magpie Tales, Darling Forestry, LLC, Alpha Pest & Wildlife Control, Sweep You Off Your Feet, United Commercial Flooring, Cottage Creek Orchard**

SHARE THE NEWS: Please share this communication with your employees, your co-workers, your family & friends and any others you think might be interested in news from our Chamber. They can sign up to receive future notifications from the Mason Area Chamber of Commerce via email by simply emailing their name; business or community connection with their preferred email address to masonchamber@masonchamber.org

MORE INFO & DETAILS: Are available 24/7 on our www.masonchamber.org website and be sure to like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/masonchamber
WHAT ARE MEMEBERS ARE SAYING
Mark Kelly owner of Happy Homes Heating, INC: 'Such a wonderful idea! Way to go MACC, MSP, and all others involved, you are making our community stronger through your efforts, salute to you!!!' In reference to the Mason Business Expo held on February 16th at the Mason High School.
NEWS OF OUR MEMBERS!
I-496 Rebuilding Project
 2023 Progress and Upcoming I-127 & I-496 Construction Project Update
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will invest approximately $82 million to rebuild I-496 and perform preventive maintenance and repairs on 17 bridges between Lansing Road and the Grand River.
I-496 has been widened to improve operations by connecting the Lansing Road and M-99 ramps with an auxiliary lane. This project will include resurfacing and sidewalk ramp upgrades along the I-496 service drives between M-99 (Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard) and the Grand River, as those routes will be utilized as detours throughout the project. This seminar will update us on the following:
  • What Has Been Done?
  • What Still Needs To Be Done?
  • Estimated Project End Date?
  • How Will Traffic Be Affected?
  • Overview of Upcoming I-127 & I-496 Construction Project.
In 2023, at least one lane of I-496 will be open in each direction, with major work occurring between Lansing Road and M-99.
Since this is a design-build project, which means the contractor and their team designs the project and builds it, traffic impacts will be identified as the project goes through design. Ramp and bridgework is expected to impact surface streets as well. Announcements will be made in advance of these traffic impacts once the design is completed, with updates throughout work.
Funding for this project is made possible by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Rebuilding Michigan program to rebuild the state highways and bridges that are critical to the state’s economy and carry the most traffic. The investment strategy is aimed at fixes that result in longer useful lives and improve the condition of the state’s infrastructure.
For More Information
Call the MDOT Lansing Transportation Service Center at 517-335-3754.
For updates, click HERE
After registration, a ZOOM link will be sent to you to attend this webinar. 
Question? Contact Melissa Nay at 517-377-1410 or mnay@lansing.org
Greater Lansing Sports Authority Names Meghan Ziehmer as New Executive Director
LANSING, Mich.— The Greater Lansing Sports Authority (GLSA) is pleased to announce it has named Meghan Ziehmer, STS, CTA, former associate director, as its new executive director. “Meghan has been an integral part of the GLSA since she started in 2009,” said Julie Pingston, President & CEO of the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau (GLCVB). “I’m excited to see her take on this role and continue the GLSA’s mission to be the leading voice of sports tourism in Greater Lansing.” In her 14-year career at the GLSA that began as a sports intern, Meghan has served as tournament director or event chair for several national-level events with organizations like the National College Athletic Association (NCAA), National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA), USA Figure Skating, USA Hockey, USA Archery, USA Gymnastics, and the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA). In addition to continuing to provide event services to locally organized, committee-driven events, Meghan will be responsible for overseeing the sports team by developing strategies and budgets to help initiate and expand sport development in the community. Meghan’s leadership extends beyond the GLSA. In addition to being a Certified Tourism Ambassador and a Sports Tourism Strategist, she also serves on the Sports Events & Tourism Association Sports Legacy Committee, and she is the marketing chair for the Pure Michigan Sports Initiative, secretary for the Conquest Health & Fitness Foundation Board and the volunteer chair for the EmpowHER Leadership Retreat. “I am excited for the opportunity to build on the solid foundation created for the GLSA,” said Ziehmer. “In 2022 the GLSA hosted 80 sports events and welcomed over 50,000 athletes to the region. I look forward to continuing to work with our team to boost the community’s economy through sport.”
For more information about the GLSA, visit www.lansingsports.org
TRUE Community Credit Union Leader Recognized with ATHENA Leadership Award 
JACKSON, MI, February 7, 2023 – TRUE Community Credit Union is proud to recognize and congratulate Chief Member Experience Office Sarah Ermatinger as the 2023 Jackson County ATHENA Leadership Award winner. The ATHENA Leadership Award was one of several community awards presented by the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce during their Night of Distinction. Those nominated for the ATHENA Leadership Award must demonstrate excellence, creativity, and initiative throughout their career, donate their time and talents to improve the quality of life for others, and help women reach their full leadership potential through mentorship roles or relationships, while contributing significantly to the Jackson Community. “The entire TRUE Community Credit Union Team is proud beyond measure of Sarah’s accomplishment, being awarded the 2023 ATHENA Leadership Award,” said TRUE Community Credit Union President and CEO Chrissy Siders. “Sarah demonstrates excellence, creativity, and initiative, selflessly donating her time and talents to improve the quality of life for others, and helping women reach their full leadership potential through mentorship, all while contributing significantly to the Jackson Community. She strives for excellence in everything, leads with creativity and heart always, and shows up with an immense amount of initiative to everything she pours herself into. She embodies humility and authenticity, and TRUE Community Credit Union is better because of her.” Presented to leaders across professional sectors, the ATHENA Leadership Award’s rich history, international scope, and focus on mentorship distinguishes it as one of the most prestigious leadership awards one can receive.

800.554.7101 or 517.784.7101
Main Office: 1100 Clinton Road, Jackson, MI 49202
TRUECCU.com │ TRUECCU@TRUECCU.com
Tickets will go on sale soon!
This spring we will once again return with our annual Comedy for a Cause Fundraising Event! We look forward to bringing in a fresh comic for a night of food and laughter as we raise funds for Building Twentyone. 

Tickets will go on sale at buildingtwentyone.org in the very near future.

If you've had questions about what Building Twentyone Membership is, we've created a simple flow chart to clarify Membership!  
The Capital Region International Airport needs your immediate help and is urging you to make your voice heard!

We are asking you to submit letters of support to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) in support of American Airlines’ application to continue nonstop air service between LAN and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). If the request is denied, American Airlines will be forced to terminate LAN-DCA service after Oct. 28, 2023. 

FAA approval of American Airlines’ request is vital to both the airport and the mid-Michigan community. As the only daily flight between Michigan’s capital and the nation’s capital, our community relies on this service to reach Washington, D.C.

American Airlines started service between LAN and DCA on July 5, 2016. This also resulted in American adding nonstop service from LAN to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), giving mid-Michigan residents additional travel options and connection opportunities through LAN. Today, American Airlines is LAN’s number one airline. Additionally, the annual economic impact of American’s LAN-DCA service is nearly $12 million. The loss of this air service would have a major negative impact on both mid-Michigan air travelers and our regional economy.

The greater Lansing community has shown unwavering support for the continuation of American’s nonstop LAN-DCA service since it first started in 2016, and your continued support is critical in American’s efforts to maintain this important service. We are asking for your support once again — make your voice heard!

You can submit a letter of support for American Airlines' request directly online. Visit FlyLansing.com/SupportAmerican to submit a pre-formatted letter of support directly to the docket, the USDOT, and the FAA with just one click. You also have the option to customize your own letter of support. Additional details can be found on the web page. 

Submitting a letter only takes a few minutes, but retaining this service will have a long-lasting positive impact on LAN, our future service, and our entire region. The more mid-Michigan shows its support, the better the chances of American gaining federal approval to continue LAN-DCA service. 

It’s important that you reference American Airlines Slot Exemption – Docket Number FAA-2015-3491-0424 in all your communications to the FAA and USDOT. All of the necessary information is already included in the pre-formatted email message for your convenience. 

Thank you for supporting your local airport and our regional economy. We appreciate your help in ensuring LAN remains one of the strongest regional air service markets for business and leisure travelers.

Fly Lansing!
Nicole Noll-Williams
President and CEO

4100 Capital City Blvd
Lansing, MI 48906
Please join us for a night of lost loves, tragic endings, and dark scary secrets! You don’t need a date for this Valentine event, but we strongly recommend that you not come alone. You and your group will be provided one flashlight as Awaken turns down the lights to pure black*. Yes, you heard right...one flashlight to travel into the depths of our horror-filled haunt. This means the corners will be darker, the shadows deeper and the fun and scares even scarier. Your imagination will run wild for this fun, exciting and terror filled Valentine’s Day event!
Tickets on sale now at Awakenhaunt.com or at our box office! 
Valentine Cookie Decorating Classes
Kids, bring an adult, bring your friends, come decorate 6 Valentine cookies to share with your favorite people!! They may include one different, just for kicks!!

Age, 4-14
Location: The Jefferson Mason

Class Date: Saturday, February 11, 2023
Time of Class: 10-11 am

What's Included:
6 large fresh undecorated buttery sugar cookies
5 frosting colors
Sprinkles and embellishments
practice time,
step by step instructions
Take home box
Surprise!


**Allergen information: Milk, Eggs, Wheat
Sunday Funday with a Valentines Cookie Twist!
Festive fun with friends!
Line up your Cupid Crowd or your Beautiful Bestie

Location: Mason-Holt Eagles Club 1111 N. Cedar St, Mason, MI 48854
Class Date: Sunday, February 12th!

Time: Club opens at 3:00, Class is from 4-6pm.
Cost: $45.
Covers one drink, the class, prizes & take-home supplies.

Extra cookies available to purchase.
All are welcome! You do not need to be a member to participate!
Class size is limited, so register asap to save your spot!
Spring into Growth with CASA for Kids! 
Save the date to help us raise the funds needed to advocate for over 200 children in our community this year. The 9th Annual Evening to Change a Child's Story will feature a live auction, plated dinner, speakers, and entertainment. 
 
A limited number of VIP tickets, VIP tables, and sponsorship opportunities are open! 
*Event tickets go on sale March 1, 2023.* 
ANNUAL GERANIUM SALE
Spring is coming!! The Mason Sycamore Creek Garden Club is excited to share the news of their annual Geranium Sale now through Saturday, April 1st. 
 
The Club offers 11" Hanging Baskets, 3-gallon Bush Pots and 4-1/2" Seed Geraniums for purchase. Also available are 12" Herb Bowls and 10" Succulent Planters. These plantings are supplied to us by Weesies Bros. Garden Centers & Landscaping of Montague MI and they never disappoint. You won’t find these prices and quality in any store! Hint: These plants make awesome Mother's Day gifts. 
 
The complete price list, order form and color charts can also be seen on our FaceBook page "Mason Sycamore Creek Garden Club" or can be requested by email to gardenclubofmason@gmail.com. You can also contact Diann Jackman at 517-230-1328 for additional information. Plus, you can visit our booth at the Mason Business Expo on February 16th. 
 
The last date to order is April 1st. Tentative delivery date is Tuesday, May 8th, 2023, and pick up will be at a location in Mason. Checks should be made payable to Mason Sycamore Creek Garden Club (or MSCGC).   
Check out these great happenings from
Mason Public School
Ticket Costs & Instructions

$65 per person through January 31, 2023
Apply promo code EARLYBIRD at check out to get $10 per person discount.
$75 per person starting 2/1/23
**Ticket costs are non-refundable
Help us Raise Money for Mason Public Schools!
The children in our community deserve the best education possible. The Mason Public Schools Foundation works to make this possible by raising funds to give back to our schools. In 2022 we were able to give $75,000 back to our students and teachers for use this school year. Let's keep this tradition going as a community Help support our schools in one of two ways:
Buy Tickets Now
Click on the link below to buy your tickets for our Commercial Bank Red Carpet Gala being held on Saturday, March 11, 2023, at the University Club of MSU.

Schedule:
  • 5.30 pm: Cocktail Hour featuring appetizers and a cash bar while you mingle and participate in the silent auction
  • 6:45 pm: Plated dinner featuring a choice of chicken bruschetta (Gluten Free) or vegan stroganoff, paired with complimentary wine
  • 7:45 pm: Live auction featuring Sheridan Auctioneers
  • 8:45: Afterglow party featuring DJ Dawn, desserts, cash bar, and more!
Donate & Become a Sponsor Now
Whether you are planning to come to the event or you cannot make it, your donation is much appreciated. Bulldog Supporter Sponsorships are available from $1,000 to $150.
  • $1,000 Platinum
  • $600 Gold
  • $300 Silver
  • $150 Bronze
If you want to give a special gift or have questions, please email us at the foundation for more information at mpsfoundation@gmail.com.
Commercial Bank 5K is Friday, May 5th, 2023

  • Dart Bank Kids 1 mile and 100-yard dash begins at 6:00 PM
  • Commercial Bank 5K Run/Walk begins at 7:00 PM
  • Downtown Mason (322 Jefferson St. Mason, MI US 48854)
  • The race will start and end at the Mason Courthouse following a similar route to past years’ courses.
  • Sponsorships available from $1,000 to $150
Dart Container Corporation is hiring
Dart Container Corporation located in Mason, Michigan is hiring. Interested individuals should visit our website at www.dart.jobs

If you have any questions, please contact Alex Darling at (517) 244-3210.

| Dart Container Corporation 500 Hogsback Rd. Mason, Michigan 48854
(833) HRC-DART | www.dart.jobs
Looking for a meeting venue?

Located in historic downtown Mason, Michigan, The Jefferson Mason is a beautifully renovated storefront and business center. Available for small gatherings, business meetings, photography, classes, networking and MORE, this multi-use space is rentable by the hour.
We're open, and ready to help you book your meeting or event.




Amenities:

  • 700 square feet
  • Private bathroom
  • Flat-screen television
  • WIFI
  • Conference table
  • Upscale modern furnishings
  • Catering partners
Rate:

  • $50/hour
  • $40/hour for 4-hour block
  • $30/hour for 12-hour block

*Your rented time slot includes time for both set up & clean up.





Hours:

Monday – Sunday: 8:00AM – 8:00PM


The Jefferson Mason
415 S. Jefferson Street, Mason, MI 48854
info@thejeffersonmason.com
(910) 650-132