January 25-31, 2012 - Creative Circle Media Solutions
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January 25-31, 2012
2 www.lansingcitypulse.com City Pulse • January 25, 2012
City Pulse • January 25, 2012 www.lansingcitypulse.com 3
P u r s e at the
a Coach en’s Expo!
Enter to w i
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c h i g a n Wom uary 3-5, 2
012 $SFBUJOH$PNNVOJUZ
Mid-M Fe b r
0UIFS"WBJMBCMF1SPQFSUJFT
ADDRESS PROPERTY INFORMATION PRICE
533 Denver 3 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath 888 Sq. Ft. 66500
326 Isbell St, Lansing
1421 Corbett St. 3 Bedroom, 1 Bath 1120 Sq. Ft. 101000
$80,000 2029 Hillcrest 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath 796 Sq. Ft. 65000
8$PMVNCJB #FESPPN #BUI 4R'U
1080 Sq. Ft.
3 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath 5234 Lark Circle 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath 1326 Sq. Ft. 74000
1201 Dakin 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath 731 Sq. Ft. 44500
2VFFO #FESPPN #BUI 4R'U
)VHIFT3PBE #FESPPN #BUI 4R'U
4123 Balmoral 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath 1224 Sq. Ft. 75000
)VMM$PVSU #FESPPN #BUI 4R'U
1417 Sheldon 3 Bedroom, 1 Bath 830 Sq. Ft. 63000
812 Everett Dr, Lansing 812 Everett 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath 968 Sq. Ft. 64000
$64,000 734 Cawood 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath 616 Sq. Ft. 50000
-BUISPQ #FESPPN #BUI 4R'U
968 Sq. Ft.
2 Bedroom, 1 Bath 326 Isbell 3 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath 1080 Sq. Ft. 80000
810 Cleveland 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath 564 Sq. Ft. 35000
$IVSDIJMM #FESPPN #BUI 4R'U
/$IFTUOVU #FESPPN #BUI 4R'U
1217 W Michigan 3 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath 1450 Sq. Ft. 75000
209 Reo 3 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath 1364 Sq. Ft. 79000
4UBOMFZ #FESPPN #BUI 4R'U
1417 Sheldon St, Lansing 901 Riverview 3 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath 1151 Sq. Ft. 75000
$63,000 /+FOJTPO #FESPPN #BUI 4R'U
920 W Willow 4 Bedroom, 1 Bath 1312 Sq. Ft. 75000
830 Sq. Ft.
3 Bedroom, 1 Bath /.-, #FESPPN #BUI 4R'U
1617 Ohio 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath 696 Sq. Ft. 55000
7FSNPOU #FESPPN #BUI 4R'U
1225 Allen 3 Bedroom, 1 Bath 770 Sq. Ft. 65000
4IFQBSE #FESPPN #BUI 4R'U
-BUISPQ #FESPPN #BUI 4R'U
.BZCFM #FESPPN #BUI 4R'U
-BUISPQ4U -BOTJOH &EFO(MFO$POEPNJOJVN PS#FESPPN #BUI
$50,000
1MFBTFWJTJUPVSXFCTJUFGPSGVSUIFSJOGPSNBUJPOBCPVUUIFTFQSPQFSUJFT
782 Sq. Ft.
2 Bedroom, 1 Bath
$SFBUJOH1MBDF$SFBUJOH$PNNVOJUZ$SFBUJOH0QQPSUVOJUZ
422 Adams St., Lansing, MI 48906 Phone: 517.267.5221 Fax: 517.267.5224
www.inghamlandbank.org
BOARD MEMBERS:
&SJD4DIFSU[JOH $IBJSt%FC/PMBO 7JDF$IBJSt#SJBO.D(SBJO 4FDSFUBSZt3FCFDDB#BIBS$PPL 5SFBTVSFSt%FCCJF%F-FPO .FNCFS
4 www.lansingcitypulse.com City Pulse • January 25, 2012
Top of the Town voting ends soon
Mfcld\((#@jjl\)+
The City Pulse/WLNS Top of the page. Click on it. Read the rules. Find
Town contest for the best of most every- at least 25 categories in which you want (0',fZ_#;`i\Zkfi
ented university, state government and able Wednesdays only) so tender it falls dfe`hl\7cXej`e^Z`kpglcj\%Zfd ,(. 000$,'-)
8ccXeIfjj
a diverse community. While I wouldn't off the bone. The letter would describe XccXe7cXej`e^Z`kpglcj\%Zfd ,(. 000$,'-*
expect Michelin starred restaurants, I how our adult children always want J_\ccpFcjfe
would expect a reasonable number of to go right from the airport to Emil's Editor & Publisher j_\ccp7cXej`e^Z`kpglcj\%Zfd ,(. -+*$(.'*
good restaurants including informal but when they come to town (from D.C. and Berl :feki`Ylkfij19i`Xe9`\ebfnjb`#Aljk`e9`c`Zb`#9`cc:XjkXe`\i#
Schwartz DXip:%:ljXZb#A\]]?Xdd\i#Kfd?\cdX#:_i`jkfg_\i?fiY#
creative ethnic food. But there are very Austin; hardly food deserts). K\iipC`eb#Bpc\D\c`ee#8[XdDfce\i#;\ee`jGi\jkfe#8ccXe@%
few exceptional restaurants and all too I would mention how Emil's serves Ifjj#Af\Kfifb#I`Z_Klg`ZX#JljXeNff[j#GXlcNfqe`Xb#
8dXe[X?Xii\cc$J\pYlie#Lk\Mfe;\i?\p[\e#Al[pN`ek\i
many mediocre ones. And there is little bargain all-you-can-eat spaghetti on 7 p.m. Wednesdays @ek\iej1Kfep8cXe#8cc`jfeD%9\iipdXe#8cpjjX=`ik_#8[Xd
emphasis on local, fresh, seasonal food. Sundays, intended for MSU students This Week
@c\e`Z_#>\eeXDlj`Xc#:_i`jk`eXKfjZXef
;\c`m\ip[i`m\ij18Y[lcdX_[`8c$IXY`X_#;Xm\=`j_\i#BXi\e
This hurts the community — I’ve seen who don't get dorm food that day. I Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero, MSU Law Professor EXmXiiX#Ef\cc\EXmXiiX#9i\ekIfY`jfe#Jk\m\Jk\m\ej
more than one conference decide not to might even compare this generosity to Matthew Fletcher and others on a Lansing casino
locate in Lansing because of the lack of Torok's stingy words. But then it hit
good restaurant choices. me. I don't need to stick up for Emil's...
Too many local weeklies will only cuz who's going to listen to your food
Dan Young and Baby Gaga of Spiral Video Dance Bar
publish "puff pieces" on local restau- critic, who walks into a beloved, fami-
rants. But Lansing needs a serious food ly-owned, long serving, genuine Italian Douglas Sills, star of
critic, one who will point us to the gems restaurant and orders potato wedges!? “The Addams Family”
but also be critical of the places that are Sheesh! GC8:@E>9
City Pulse • January 25, 2012 www.lansingcitypulse.com 5
Word on the street
What do you say about a Lansing casino? Eyesore
If you haven’t heard yet, there was
some big development news out of
the city this week having to do with a
casino, thousands of jobs and four-year
the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa
Indians, faces some legal hurdles,
city officials and some residents are
nonetheless excited about the pros-
uals in downtown Lansing Monday to
get their reaction to the city’s announce-
ment of bringing a tribally owned and
operated casino downtown. Here’s what
of the week
college scholarships for Lansing School pect. Others, including another Native they had to say.
District students. American tribe, not so much. For more (Compiled by City Pulse interns
While the proposal, which would on the proposal, see page 9. Allison M. Berryman and Adam
be a partnership between the city and City Pulse interviewed nine individ- Ilenich.)
Brittany Kintigh Ashley Heisler
Lansing Connecticut
“I think that gambling is fine as recreation. I think it “Twenty-two casinos in Michigan
can be positive economic income for the community. is already enough, and I don’t even
“I think it’s great for the city of Lansing. I have two live here. And I think it’s a horrible
bachelor’s degrees and I’m getting my master’s and location, too.” Property: 170 E. Grand River Ave., Williamston
I can’t find a job in Lansing. I think it’s great for the
Owner: Jarco Investments, LLC
flooded market.
“I think it sounds fun, I’d go and check it out and hang Assessed value: $196,500
out. There’s not a ton of different types of things to do in Owner says: Could not be reached for comment
Lansing and it’d be a different, fun thing to do on a Friday Architecture critic Amanda Harrell-Seyburn says:
night. I think it’s cool.” Abner Giles It’s easy to miss this unassuming house set way
(Kintigh asked to not have her photo taken.) Lansing back from Grand River Avenue in Williamston.
But if you follow the subtle suggestion of a
“I don’t think it’s a good idea. driveway to its terminus, you’ll find a classic
They will only bring more trouble ranch. All of the features are there — single
Sara Spielman to the city. People will get addicted story with a low-pitch gable roof, attached
Lansing to gambling, lose their money and garage and the house hugs the landscape like
then eventually rely on the city for the best of ranches. Although the popularity of
“I’m not a gambler, but if it’s a help. It wouldn’t do the city much this American house style has waned in the past
major employer then it’s a posi- good.” decades, a new appreciation for the open floor
tive thing. If it’s going to create job plans, single-story living and massive windows
openings, then it’s a good thing for inviting the outdoors has made these quite a hot
the city of Lansing.” commodity. Repairs to the damaged eave on the
Katie Johns façade, combined with structural repairs to the
Lansing rear porch roof, are all this house needs.
“I’m not morally opposed, if it is The dismal collection of trees and fallen branch-
Nicole Karklin supposed to bring jobs to Lansing. es scattered across the front lawn do the city of
Eaton Rapids I think it will be a beneficial, eco- Williamston a favor by concealing this abandoned
nomic development.” house from the frequently traveled Grand River
“I don’t see a problem with it. Avenue. A closer look at the neglected 10-acre
Obviously it’s good for the city.” property reveals a house slowly falling to pieces,
evidenced by the bricks, pipes and wooden boards
strewn across the lawn. Chipped and weathered
paint around the windows and doors also indicate
Michelle Walter that efforts for upkeep have long been deserted.
Lansing Major damage to the house includes a rotted garage
door and the roof, which looks as if it’s ready to
“I know a lot of people who go collapse at any moment. With some much-needed
Bob Wood to Mt. Pleasant and Battle Creek to attention and repairs, the house has the potential
Bath go to the casinos. I think it’s good to be a home once again.
for the city now that they can spend
“I already think we have enough their money in Lansing now. — Allison M. Berryman
casinos in Michigan.”
“Eyesore of the Week” is our look at some of the seedi-
er properties in Lansing. It rotates each week with Eye Candy
of the Week. If you have a suggestion, please e-mail eye@
lansingcitypulse.com or call 999-5064.
6 www.lansingcitypulse.com City Pulse • January 25, 2012
Former local Dem Party chair running in 68th
Griffin Rivers, the former chair- several months I will
man of the Ingham County Democratic be looking, listening
Party, announced Tuesday he was run- and learning more
ning for the open 68th House District about the pressing
seat being vacated by term-limited Rep. concerns about issues
Joan Bauer, D-Lansing, at the end of which voters care most
the year. about.”
Rivers, 72, announced his candida- Rivers was the
cy at a Gone Wired Café event in front chief of staff of former
of about 30 people, including Lansing House Appropriations
City Councilwoman Carol Wood, former Committee Chairman Rivers
Lansing Mayor Tony Benavides and for- George Cushingberry.
mer Rep. Michael Murphy. He’s also served as the executive direc-
“This is my home,” Rivers said. “I care tor of the Michigan Legislative Black
about Lansing and the Lansing area. I Caucus and an administrator with the
feel like I am the best-qualified candidate Department of Corrections.
for this position. A Mobile, Ala., native, Rivers served in
“I will bring my experience, leader- the Vietnam War and as the deputy direc-
ship and commitment as a strong, effec- tor of the state of Louisiana’s corrections
tive voice for the citizens of the 68th
District,” he continued. “Over the next See Rivers, Page 7
spartantaxrelief@yahoo.com Prep.1040.com/spartantaxrelief/
City Pulse • January 25, 2012 www.lansingcitypulse.com 7
Rivers businesses in the form of tax credits and
it’s taking money away from the types of
investments that would educate children
PUBLIC NOTICES
The Ingham County Housing Commission, on behalf of the Ingham County Land Bank is accepting
proposals for the Identification and Marking of Hazardous Materials, including, but not limited
from page 6 and head off crime. to, asbestos, mercury and various containerized material, located at various sites listed in the
Benavides described Rivers as having Bid Packet# NSP2 11-009, which can be obtained at the Ingham County Land Bank NSP2 office
department. the “fire in the belly” and the time to “do located at 600 W. Maple Street, Lansing, Michigan 48906 between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00
pm Monday through Friday or at the website: www.inghamlandbank.org, refer to “NSP2 11-009”.
Tuesday’s announcement is the first what needs to be done” to win the August Proposals will be due at the NSP2 office before 11:00 am on February 8, 2012. The Bid Opening
formally declared opponent to Ingham Democratic primary. will be February 8, 2012 at 11:01 am. The Ingham County Land Bank is an Equal Employment
County Commissioner Andy Schor, who “Griffin Rivers will be a voice of reason Opportunity Employer. Women- and Minority-Owned Businesses are encouraged to apply.
is also seeking the post. The Lansing- and an effective legislator for the people
REQUEST FOR BIDS
based 68th District has a 73 percent of Lansing,” Benevides said. “Because of
Democratic base, meaning the winner of term limits, we need Griffin Rivers with CITY OF EAST LANSING
the Aug. 7 primary is all but assured vic- his wealth of experience and knowledge 410 ABBOT ROAD
EAST LANSING, MICHIGAN 48823
tory in November. in the Michigan Legislature to get the job
The married father of five children and done for the 68th District.” (2) SIDE LOAD FULLY AUTOMATED LOW ENTRY REFUSE COLLECTION TRUCKS
five grandchildren, Rivers said state gov- Rivers’ campaign has a website: www.
ernment has been disinvesting in educa- griffinrivers.com. The City of East Lansing, Michigan is requesting bids for (2) fully automated, low entry, side load
refuse collection trucks. To receive specifications on these vehicles, please request information from
tion and public safety and that has to stop. one of these locations which are available from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday:
He said too much is being given away to — Kyle Melinn
City of East Lansing Department of Public Works
1800 East State Road (location address)
East Lansing, MI 48823
517-337-9459
Advancing system and fluids, making hybrid vehicles or
City of East Lansing Department of Public Works
about 30 percent lighter and 30 percent 410 Abbot Road (mailing address)
less expensive. The generator is also esti- East Lansing, MI 48823
hybrids
mated to cut carbon dioxide emissions by
Proposal submissions will be accepted by the Department of Public Works until 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday,
90 percent from regular cars with inter- February 7, 2012. Submissions received after this date and time will not be considered.
nal combustion engines.
Several prototypes have been built The City of East Lansing reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, the right to waive defects in
proposals, and to make the award in its own best interest.
MSU researchers are working on and automotive manufacturers have
car engine technology that could expressed interest in the technology, said
reduce vehicle weight by 1,000 Tonghun Lee, professor of mechanical CITY OF EAST LANSING
pounds and cut carbon dioxide engineering at MSU and researcher on
emissions by 90 percent the project. By: Marie McKenna
Norbert Müller, associate professor of City Clerk
The heavy, bulky insides of what’s mechanical engineering at MSU, leads NOTICE TO PUBLIC
beneath vehicle hoods could be a thing the Wave Disk Generator project. AVAILABILITY OF NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM 1 (NSP 1)
of the past, based on new research at The Advanced Research Project ACTION PLAN (7/1/08-6/30/09) AMENDMENT to the Substantial Amendment
CITY OF LANSING
Michigan State University. Agency—Energy, which invests in high-
Cooking-pot-sized generators could risk, high-reward energy projects, kick- PURPOSE: To provide citizens the opportunity to examine and comment on the City of Lansing’s
replace most of what’s under the hood in started the wave disk research at MSU Neighborhood Stabilization Program document amendment to the existing NSP 1. NSP funds
hybrid cars, which would mean lighter, with $2.5 million in January 2010. The provide emergency assistance to acquire and redevelop foreclosed properties. Specifically, the City
of Lansing is amending its existing NSP 1 program to reflect the following changes:
cheaper, cleaner and more efficient vehi- agency says about 85 percent of car fuels,
cles. in traditional engines, is lost as what is Activity Current Budget Proposed Amendment
MSU engineers are developing such a called waste heat, 1 Housing rehab for supportive housing $1,500,000 $1,510,000
2 Neighborhood Empowerment Center 850,000 No change
device — called the Wave Disk Generator and only 15 per- 3 Housing purchase/rehab for home buyers 0 (Merged with Activity 5)
— made of curved blades on a spinning cent to 20 per- 4 Demolition 400,000 No Change
disk. Air and fuel are pumped into the cent is turned into 5 Housing rehab for sale to home buyers 840,000 $1,560,000
channels between the blades and pressure motion. The Wave 6 Housing New Construction 250,000 220,000
builds up, causing a shock wave. When Disk Generator 7 Home Buyer Assistance 0 (Merged with Activity 5)
compressed, the air and fuel ignite. After is estimated to 8 Foreclosed home acquisition and maintenance 1,552,944 852,944
9 Administration 599,216 No change
combustion, the high-speed gases are use 60 percent of
released through exhaust ports, causing fuel for propul- BACKGROUND INFORMATION
the disk to spin and generate electricity. sion — or actually
The overall budget for the City of Lansing’s Neighborhood Stabilization program remains unchanged
The small engine replaces tradition- making the car go at $5,992,160. Activities planned for the grant remain the same. This amendment will adjust budget
ally used pistons, camshafts and valves. — cutting wasted amounts estimated for individual activities to match actual spending needs for those activities.
“The main difference between this and fuel in half. Wichman All planned acquisition has been completed. Actual costs for acquisition and site maintenance were
the automobile engine in your car is that The versatile lower than anticipated. New housing construction activity is substantially completed at a lower cost
the piston is fixed in your car,” said Indrek generators can be used in motorized than the amount originally budgeted.
Wichman, MSU professor of mechani- scooters, large trucks and everything in
Housing rehabilitation is in progress for supportive housing and for units to be sold to home buyers.
cal engineering and researcher on the between, so long as it’s a hybrid. Additional budget amounts will be needed to complete all housing rehabilitation and resale activity
project. In the Wave Disk Generator, “The generator can charge a battery planned for the grant.
“the combustion that takes place moves to run a hybrid, but it won’t work like a
A copy of this proposed amendment for use of NSP funds will be available for public review and
around in a circle.” regular car engine,” Wichman said. comment on the city’s website at www.lansingmi.gov/pnd/development. and at the Capital Area
Wichman said the generator could be But Wichman thinks the generator District Library (Reference Desk, 2nd flr.), 401 S. Capitol Ave, Lansing, MI. The comment period for
used on hybrid cars to charge the battery, could move beyond just hybrid cars, to be the Neighborhood Stabilization Program 1 amendment will commence at 8:00 a.m. on January 26,
2012 and expire at 5:00 p.m. February 9, 2012.
eliminating the need for a cooling system used whenever there’s a need to produce
and several other parts. Most hybrid cars power. The NSP Action Plan Amendment will be submitted to the Department of Housing and Urban
store energy in batteries for their electric “This kind of engine could be used for Development no later than February 17, 2012. A summary of all comments received will be
attached to the final document.
motors. a house … a manufacturing plant. … I’m
Researchers estimate the genera- not so sure it will only be put under car For further information regarding this notice, please contact: Doris Witherspoon, Senior Planner
tor could replace approximately 1,000 City of Lansing, Michigan, Department of Planning and Neighborhood Development, 316 North
Capitol, Suite D-1, Lansing Michigan 48933-1236. Telephone (517) 483-4063.
pounds of engine, transmission, cooling See Wave Disk, Page 8
8 www.lansingcitypulse.com City Pulse • January 25, 2012
Wave Disk Act globally, think locally
ed more than two years ago, is winding
down. Researchers are looking for more
money to keep going and commercial-
from page 7 ize the Wave Disk Generator. The feds
aren’t ruling out continued support. We all tend ers in Nicaragua. Esperanza en Accion
hoods,” Wichman said. “We do have the option to extend to get caught up wanted to lend money to their artisans
There were skeptics at first, but the programs, but initially projects and in our own little who they help export handmade crafts
project has continued to prove them programs are set up for three years,” worlds. Although to the U.S. fair trade market, but lacked
wrong, said Pablo Parraga, a doctoral said Peder Maarbjerg, assistant direc- we do occasionally the funds. Spartan Global negotiated
student at MSU and research assistant tor for external coordination at the think of those who a direct funding agreement to provide
on the project. Advanced Research Project Agency– struggle in our own them with a loan fund they could use
“We have proven the concept,” Energy. local community, to make loans to their artisans, primar-
Parraga said. “We have moved past the “Someone could certainly do a part a sustainability ily for raw materials and other products
challenges and now things are really two if we see there’s a need to advance worldview believes used in their craft. Loans range from
working.” the technology,” Maarbjerg said. we are linked to $170 to $600. The artisans pay no inter-
Parraga said a major concern was Maarbjerg said his agency looks to everyone as one human family, sharing est to Esperanza en Accion on their
igniting a mix at such high speeds. fund projects that would “put old tech- one single planet, with one common loans, so the repaid funds can be lent
“This is an area that didn’t have nologies out of business,” but couldn’t future. Some enterprising MSU students, again and again.
much research, and we’ve proved with comment on future funding for the led by Michael Thelen and supported by Michael Thelen graduated from MSU
the higher speed combustion, that, yes, wave disk project. MSU Professor of Business Law Paulette in December 2009 and took a motor-
we can do it,” Parraga said. Stenzel, put that belief into action a little cycle ride from here through Central
Funding for the project, which start- — Brian Bienkowski over two years ago. America to Santiago, Chile, where he
Thelen, inspired by Nobel Peace now has taken up residence. Along the
Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus and way he visited with some of the lenders
PUBLIC NOTICES his efforts in microfinance, wanted to and the borrowers to experience first-
B/12/050 ALTERATION OF NORTH GRAND RAMP TOWER as per the specifications provided by spread the idea and so helped create hand how Spartan Global was improving
the City of Lansing. the Spartan Global Development Fund, the lives of others. His blog of this trip is
The City of Lansing will accept sealed bids at the FINANCE DEPARTMENT, PURCHASING OFFICE, a microcredit fund that supports small a fascinating read: www.michaelthelen.
8TH FLOOR CITY HALL, 124 W. MICHIGAN AVENUE, LANSING, MICHIGAN 48933 until 3:00 PM loans to hard working entrepreneurs blogspot.com.
local time in effect on FEB. 16, 2012, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. Late bids around the world. SGDF has helped Meanwhile, back at MSU, Spartan
will be rejected.
finance more than 1,500 loans total- Global is managed by another set of
Complete specifications and forms required to submit bids are available by calling Stephanie ing more than $39,000. The borrow- students who continue the dream of
Robinson at (517) 483-4128, email: srobinso@lansingmi.gov or go to www.mitn.info ers are small business people located expanding microcredit to entrepreneurs
The City of Lansing encourages bids from all vendors including MBE/WBE vendors and Lansing-
in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, South in communities around the globe. Gabe
based businesses. and Central America. They produce fur- Kwakyi, current marketing chairman
niture, baked goods, farming, sewing, for Spartan Global, would love to see
RFQP/12/067—EVALUATION DOCUMENT DEVELOPMENT FOR LEAD SAFE LANSING
PROGRAM as per the specifications provided by the City of Lansing. recycling and other local services and it grow. “I personally would love to see
products. the organization expand in both size
The City of Lansing will accept sealed proposals at the FINANCE DEPARTMENT/PURCHASING SGDF started with a $3,000 gift and reach. What I mean by that is that I
OFFICE, 8TH FLOOR CITY HALL, 124 W. MICHIGAN AVENUE, LANSING, MICHIGAN 48933 until
3:00 PM local time in effect on FEBRUARY 9, 2012. from a benefactor, utilizing an existing want to see more people join the group
microcredit network, Kiva. Kiva allows and learn about microfinance and help
Complete specifications and forms required to submit proposals are available by calling individuals to put money into circula- us procure support for the cause. And
Stephanie Robinson CPPB at (517) 483-4128, or for content and purpose of this proposal
contact: Ms. Barbara Kimmel at (517) 483-4053 or go to www.mitn.info tion for microcredit through local lend- I want our organization to get involved
ing partners around the world. Thelen with more organizations, both like-
The City of Lansing encourages bids from all vendors including MBE/WBE vendors and Lansing- notes, “Each lending partner has a dif- minded microfinance or fair trade orgs
based businesses.
ferent level of direct involvement after as well as other organizations, such as
NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING the loan is disbursed. Some are more student business groups, corporations,
EAST LANSING CITY COUNCIL hands on with small business advice, and local businesses. I strongly believe
etc., and others are more focused on get- that with more publicity and more sup-
Notice is hereby given of the following public hearing to be held by the East Lansing City Council ting them the money, letting them run port comes more opportunity and capac-
on Tuesday, February 7, 2012 at 7:30 p.m., Council Chambers, 101 Linden Street, to consider their own businesses and staying out of ity to actually raise funds and discover
Ordinance No. 1275; an Ordinance to amend Section 2-362 of Division 6 - Human Relations
Commission - of Article V - Boards and Commissions - of Chapter 2 - Administration and Sections their way. However, virtually all loans avenues and people to use those funds to
22-31, 22-32, 22-33, 22-34 22-35 and 22-39 of Article II - Civil Rights - of Chapter 22 - Human are on monthly or bi-monthly repayment help.”
Relations - and Section 42-73 of Division 2 - Cable and Telecommunication Commission - of Article schedules, which means loan officers go It is great to see our younger genera-
II - Administration and Enforcement - of Chapter 42 - Telecommunications - of the Code of the City
of East Lansing. and meet with borrowers, often in group tion take the lead on helping build a
meetings, to collect repayments and more equitable and hopeful common
The City of East Lansing will provide reasonable accommodations, such as interpreters for the make sure everything is going okay for future for all. Whether it’s with micro-
hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at this meeting, upon notice
to the City of East Lansing, prior to the meeting. Individuals with disabilities requiring reasonable the borrower.” finance, urban agriculture, open-source
accommodations or services should write or call the City Manager’s Office, 410 Abbot Road, East Once the money is repaid (they have IT, or countless other community devel-
Lansing, MI 48823 (517) 319-6920, TDD 1-800-649-3777. a 98.96 percent repayment rate), the opment efforts, they are sharing their
money is available for further loans. energy and creativity to show that one
Marie E. McKenna Interest rates at the local level by the can do well by doing good. By support-
City Clerk partner agencies to the borrower vary ing productive livelihoods through fair
CITY OF LANSING widely, but this helps pay the locals on trade everywhere they are building a
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING the ground a decent wage to manage the future where all of our human family
loans. are better off. For more info visit: www.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing will be held on Monday, January 30, 2012 at 5:00
p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 10th Floor Lansing City Hall, 124 W. Michigan Ave., Lansing, With the help of Professor Stenzel, spartanglobalfund.org or www.kiva.org/
MI for the purpose of considering an Ordinance of the City of Lansing, Michigan, to Amend Chapter who specializes in fair trade in Latin lender/SpartanGlobal.
1610 of the Lansing Codified Ordinances, “Uniform Fire Code And Uniform Fire Code Standards,” by America, SGDF set up a direct agree- (Terry Link was the founding
adopting by reference the 2009 International Fire Code. For more information please call 483-4177.
ment this year with a group called director of MSU's Office of Campus
Interested Persons are invited to attend this Public Hearing Esperanza en Accion (www.esperanzaen- Sustainability and recently retired as
accion.org), a fair trade group which has director of the Greater Lansing Food
CHRIS SWOPE, LANSING CITY CLERK
direct relationships with artisan work- Bank.)
City Pulse • January 25, 2012 www.lansingcitypulse.com 9
the non-believers of the city’s and the Sault’s
legal theory: Those who believe a casino
in Lansing is possible and those who don’t.
Arguments about the potentially positive
and negative impacts of a Lansing casino —
culturally, socially, economically — are moot
if the casino’s proponents can’t conquer the
main legal hurdle.
The city’s opposition, namely the
Saginaw Tribe of Chippewa Indians, hired
an experienced Indian gaming attorney,
Philip Hogen, who chaired the National
Indian Gaming Commission for seven years
to consult on this issue. Hogen, a South
Dakota-based attorney, said the Land Claims
Settlement Act should be taken in the context
of the federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act
of 1988. That act specifically makes “crystal
clear that tribal gaming can only occur on
what is tribal land,” Hogen said.
“The Sault Tribe as well as Bay Mills
are governed by the Michigan Indian Land
Claim Settlement Act, which was intended
to permit them to enhance their land claims,”
he said. “But to go any place and every place
in Michigan is far beyond what Congress
intended in that scenario. To do this — to bet
the farm, so to speak — and to build hopes
that this will work before those lands fall into
that category is a little disingenuous.”
Hogen is concerned a ruling in favor of the
Sault and Lansing could “open the floodgates
on a questionable legal theory” for a rapid
Courtesy Photo expansion of Indian gaming facilities.
When asked who has the most to lose in
A rendering released Monday by city officials of the proposed Kewadin Lansing Casino. This view looks southwest from Cedar Street, all of this, Hogen said: “Basically the whole
just north of Cooley Law School Stadium. The casino would be built on a parking lot. gaming industry. The integrity of the Indian
The gamble
gaming industry is so important — that’s
Miller Schwartz and Cohn LLP in Lansing. between the Bay Mills Indian Community and what has made it the economic miracle it has
Particularly, he worked on legal issues with the state in which the Bay Mills Community become. We haven’t abused that privilege.
the “big three” casinos in Detroit, he said. tried opening an off-reservation casino with If and when we look for loopholes different
“In the next several weeks and months we’ll money from its self-sufficiency fund. The case than what the original intention was — in
have a lot of armchair legal experts” saying is before the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals. consequence, if they can do it wherever
it won’t work, “but I am convinced it will in But Wernet and Smith are quick to point they want to — statewide gaming no longer
Reconfiguring the Stadium the long run work,” Smith said Monday. “I’ve
become a believer in this thing. The Sault
out that the Sault are not the Bay Mills
Community when it comes to the settlement
provides the ability for the tribe to build and
sustain economic development through the
Tribe is probably in the best position to pull act. They argue the Sault can set up an
District and how a pair of
gaming industry.”
this off.” account to collect interest on the settlement Matthew Fletcher, a Michigan State
And then there’s John Wernet, who was money and buy land for a casino with that. University law professor and director of the
attorneys came to believe in hired as the general counsel to the Sault Ste.
Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians in June. The
“Any lands acquired using amounts from
interest or other income of the Self-Sufficiency
Indigenous Law and Policy Center, said “it
seems so fanciful” to rely on the Michigan
bringing a casino to Lansing Sault are working with the city on the casino
plan. Wernet and Smith are part of the legal
Fund shall be held in trust by the Secretary
for the benefit of the tribe,” a provision reads
Indian Land Claims Settlement Act as the
city’s and Sault’s argument. “It boggles my
team trying to see the casino deal through. in the Sault’s section of the act. The act does mind this kind of money, revenues and
By Andy Balaskovitz “When I got involved, I initially was very not include this provision for the Bay Mills promises about jobs are being made in the
Virg Bernero says he’s wanted a casino in skeptical,” Wernet said Monday afternoon. Community. Basically, Wernet argues, the paper given the incredible uncertainty of the
Lansing ever since he was elected mayor in “We put a lot of time in carefully evaluating Department of the Interior will have no legal situation. But, anything can happen.”
2005. theories. I’m confident we’re on sound legal choice but entrusting the land to the Sault Fletcher is a member of the Grand Traverse
He expressed this desire on several ground. That’s different from saying we’ll Tribe once it’s purchased from the city using Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, for
occasions since then, particularly once after necessarily win, but I have a high degree of interest, allowing for a casino. which he said he has “done a little work” in
appointing City Attorney Brig Smith in confidence in the theory.” “Bay Mills doesn’t have a provision like this the past, including at times when the Grand
March 2006. Wernet formerly served as Gov. Jennifer in their statutes. They didn’t have a choice to Traverse Band had testified against other
“When I started, the mayor said ‘I want a Granholm’s deputy legal counsel and has pursue mandatory trust,” Wernet said, adding tribes coming downstate. The Sault Tribe is
casino here,’” Smith recalled on Monday after more than 30 years’ experience working on that perhaps it was excluded because the based in the Upper Peninsula and operates
the unveiling of the Kewadin Lansing Casino tribal issues. “circumstances, culture and government is five casinos there, but Fletcher said the Grand
plan. “I said I’d like to be 6-foot-7 and play in The city and the Sault are hanging their different” for each tribe. Traverse Band is “officially neutral when it
the NBA.” hats on a provision in the Michigan Indian Wernet went on to admit: “I was not comes to these sorts of things.”
Smith — with a thin, roughly 5-foot-7- Land Claims Settlement Act of 1997 that familiar with this very specific provision of Wernet, of the Sault Tribe, offered a couple
inch build — still doesn’t play professional they say makes the Sault unique from the the Michigan Indian Land Claims Settlement of possible scenarios of how this will move
basketball and probably never will. But he other Chippewa and Ottawa tribes included Act that is really unique to the Sault Tribe. forward, both of which involve several years
now believes Lansing has a sound legal in it. The act outlines the use and distribution But the language seems very clear and very of waiting on federal approval and potential
argument for bringing a casino to Lansing, of judgment funds for those tribes from the compelling.” litigation. First, if the U.S. Department of the
an about-face of where he was on the issue Indian Claims Commission. It sets up “self- Yet, theories from legal experts aren’t Interior denies the application for holding the
six years ago. Smith said he was involved sufficiency funds” to be used by the tribes. hard to come by and often differ. The land in trust, Wernet said the parties would
in casino litigation before he came to the Some legal experts dismiss the Lansing narrative shaping up around the city’s casino
city with his former employer, Honigman plan because of ongoing federal litigation announcement is between the believers and See Casino, Page 10
10 www.lansingcitypulse.com City Pulse • January 25, 2012
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likely appeal the decision. If it is approved,
Wernet said it’s likely that opponents will file
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Fletcher said the Interior Department’s `e
review process takes at least two to three years.
“And the secretary’s decision is ultimately a le`fekiX[\cXYfi =`i\fg\iXk`fej#fi
very political one. The politics is just brutal
when it comes to off-reservation gaming.”
Meanwhile, a development agreement is
drawn up and Smith, Lansing’s city attorney,
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vote on it in March. It’s also worth noting that
the Sault is paying the city’s legal fees and that )g\iZ\ekf]k_\ZXj`ef je\knX^\ijnflc[]le[k_\CXej`e^Gifd`j\jZ_fcXij_`g]le[#fiXYflk,d`cc`fe
the city is indemnified so that “when or if a
lawsuit develops, the city is held harmless,” what is paid out to winners. Following a entertainment; that they further gambling strong, diversified local economy. It is worth
Smith said. temporary casino on-site, the ultimate goal addiction; or that they are a regressive tax on our investment of time and energy.”
is to build a permanent casino with a nearly lower income populations. When asked about the mounting
Redrawing the Stadium District 300,000 square-foot imprint on prime Former Mayor David Hollister — who opposition to his plan, Bernero says it’s
For planning’s sake, let’s just say the waterfront real estate downtown. That would Bernero said would be leading the Lansing merely “sour grapes. They want to hoard
Sault is granted approval from the Interior include about 2,900 parking spaces, but an Promise scholarship program as part of the the benefits and think a monopoly on
Department, the tribe’s opponents lose in a obvious question is: Where would all these casino proposal — was against a Lansing this is a good thing,” he said, referring to
lawsuit to appeal the decision and Kewadin visitors stay? Wouldn’t people be interested casino when rumors surfaced about one during other tribes. “They want to keep it all to
Lansing Casino becomes a reality. in staying overnight within walking distance his administration and again last January. themselves. I guess all that kind of greed is
The city estimates 2,200 jobs, $5 million of the casino? Hollister could not be reached for comment for human nature, they don’t want us to have
to $6 million in four-year scholarships for The Radisson Hotel across the river from this story, but he told City Pulse last January: a piece of the pie. Well, too bad. We think
Lansing high school graduates and $1.2 the site has 256 rooms. Yet, even on a big “I don’t think it’s an appropriate economic Lansing’s time has come.”
million for police and fire protection will Michigan State University football game development strategy. … Gambling would be
stem from the plan. The school and public Saturday, the Radisson is booked up. a diversion, a sideshow with lots of downsides
safety money would come from a small “Neither the city nor the tribe are in the as far as addiction and impoverishing people. “I don’t think it’s an appropriate
percentage — 2 percent and 1/2 percent, hotel business” and plans for either parties to It over promises and under delivers.” economic development
respectively — of net wagers, which is the build a hotel are nowhere in the development Bernero argues Lansing’s casino would strategy. … Gambling would be a
total money wagered at the casino minus agreement, Smith said. Further, an agreement be different. “A lot of casinos in the state are
diversion, a sideshow with lots
between the city and the Radisson prevents the slapped up and city life develops around the
city from subsidizing another hotel likely until casino. In Lansing, it’s the opposite of that. The of downsides as far as addiction
Enrich your Life! 2018, Smith said. But that doesn’t prevent casino will augment the entertainment district,” and impoverishing people. It over
All Adults Welcome! a private developer from building one. “If he said Sunday. “It kind of rounds us out. It’s not promises and under delivers.”
Spring 2012 someone wants to come in at market rate, then
God bless them,” Smith said. “We’re truly not
as if we have nothing here without it.”
Bernero believes a casino is merely David Hollister, former Lansing mayor
MSU Alumni Association’s in the hotel business and don’t need to be.” entertainment, no different from the lottery Jan. 5, 2011
EVENING COLLEGE Bernero said Sunday that “we expect or online poker. “We look at it as part of a
the private sector will come up in all sorts
Noncredit Courses of ways,” when asked about the prospect of
Register NOW! another downtown hotel.
One of the more than 100 people on hand
Advanced Website Strategies at Monday’s casino announcement was local
developer Pat Gillespie. Gillespie has a natural
Archery for Beginners stake in this whole plan because he owns the
Blogging 101 land adjacent to the City Market (just north
Chinese Medicine Introduction of the planned casino site) and also across the
Creating Cell Phone Apps street north of Cooley Law School Stadium.
Cyber Security Gillespie announced his “Market Place”
Deer in our Suburbs and “Ball Park North” development plans
Farming on Lansing’s Eastside years ago that included several-story, mixed-
Genealogy: Who Are You? use buildings and apartments on these
properties.
Getting to Know your Digital SLR Those plans may fall by the wayside if the
Honey Bee Biology & Beekeeping casino deal happens, depending on what the
Hot Topics in Science market demands, Gillespie said.
Michigan Lighthouses “We’ll look for uses that complement a
Pet Nutrition for Dogs and Cats casino,” Gillespie said. When asked if that
Tech Gadget Avalanche could include a hotel, he said: “I hope so.”
Writing Your Memoir Gillespie said he’s been considering
different uses than what was originally
planned for eight months, which includes
Call 517-355-4562 or visit
“450 to 500 emails going out.”
www.alumni.msu.edu/eveningcollege
Registration begins January 18, 2012
Indeed, Bernero is pitching the idea not
Monique Goch, Moxy Imagery/City Pulse
MSU alumni member savings! just as an economic boon and a potentially
historic transformation of the Lansing Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians Chairman Joe Eitrem (left) shakes hands with
School District, but also as another card Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero Monday at the Lansing Center as part of the Kewadin Lansing
in the city’s entertainment deck. Yet some Casino announcement. The tribe and the city hope to open a casino downtown, but face
argue that casinos aren’t the healthy kind of legal hurdles and opposition from other tribes in the state.City Pulse • January 25, 2012 www.lansingcitypulse.com 11
It’s a safe bet lobbyists and
flaks will be big winners CADL: A One-Stop
Washington D.C.-
based bureaucrats and
respected legal mind, is working with
Lansing Future, the project developer. The
Resource for Job Seekers
the federal courts will managing director of Lansing Future is Bill
ultimately decide if the Martines, due in part to his “vast real estate
Sault Ste. Marie band development background.”
of Chippewa Indians The money behind the operation comes
can roll the dice on a from Jerry Campbell, the retired founder of
Lansing casino. Ann Arbor-based Republic Bancorp. He led
But the battle for a short-lived attempt to create the Pinnacle
support among local officials and the public horse race track in Wayne County. He
has begun. Proponents and opponents pulled the plug on it last year after sinking
are hunkering down with seemingly just a reported $35 million into it since its 2008
about every lobbyist and public relations opening.
professional in town. Representing Campbell on the PR
Turning a Lansing Center parking lot front is Jeff Caponigro, who served
into a casino floor won’t happen overnight. with Campbell on the Central Michigan
Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero understands
that, which means getting the public’s
University Board of Trustees.
The law firm of Miller Canfield is
Every day 300,000 Americans
support is almost as important as getting
a judge’s support for the Sault tribe’s
assisting on the legal end of things for
Kewadin Lansing, as well. get job-seeking help at
unproven legal theory that would allow a The city of Lansing has on the string
casino here. multi-client Kheder Davis and debatably their public library.
Bernero is Lansing’s mayor today. the city’s biggest and most influential firm
There’s no guarantee he will be five or 10 — Governmental Consulting Services Inc. Source: OCLC primary research, 2010
years from now when the case is finally However, GCSI also has as a client MPM
adjudicated. So if the courts rule in the
Sault Ste. Marie tribe’s favor, whoever
Enterprises, the management partner of the
Gun Lake Tribe of Pottawatomi Indians, Visit cadl.org/lean for free
happens to be in power must keep the ball which is very much a partner of the anti-
rolling. The dream withers away otherwise. Kewadin Lansing movement. employment, education
The best way to assure that? Make sure Attorney James Nye, who did public
the local officials and the voters fall in love relations during the Gun Lake casino and training resources. cadl.org/geek
with it. If Bernero is a one-man crusade, debate, is the media’s point person on the
the project dies. anti-side. Predictably, those entities that
“Become an advocate for this project,” stand the most to lose financially from a
Bernero urged during Monday’s kick-off. Lansing casino are out front in opposition.
“Talking about this project, advocating The Saginaw band of Chippewa
for this project. Help make this dream a Indians, who owns Soaring Eagle in
reality.” Mount Pleasant, hired Philip Hogen, the
With his regular PR guy, Randy former chairman of the National Indian
Hannan, wearing more hats than the Gaming Commission, to give his legal
peddler in the classic children’s book “Caps analysis that a Lansing casino is illegal.
For Sale,” Bernero is wisely getting outside The Saginaw band is represented by
help on the public relations front. Deb Public Affairs Associates, another big-
myjob
Muchmore from the Marketing Resource swinging lobbying firm.
Group was helping out the mayor’s office on PAA also represents the MGM Grand,
Monday. another member of the anti-casino
MRG lists as clients Motor City Casino coalition. The Detroit-based law firm
and the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi of Dickinson Wright also does work for
Indians, which runs the new Four Winds MGM.
Casino in New Buffalo near the Indiana An hour south of Lansing, the Public libraries get people back to work. Support your public library.
border. Neither entity has formerly Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Pottawatomi
joined the coalition of gaming interests opened the FireKeepers Casino outside Public libraries have helped people reeducate themselves, find jobs and
working against Kewadin Lansing, but it’s of Battle Creek in 2009. They’re part of transform their lives for decades, but their role has never been more critical.
a potential conflict PR types in town are the coalition and are represented on the With high unemployment and many people cutting back on expenses, this
keeping an eye on. lobbying front by Michigan Legislative
critical resource is often the only viable option for active job seekers.
Veteran PR guy Roger Martin of Martin Consultants.
Waymire Communications is handling The Sault Ste. Marie band previously Make sure libraries have the funding they need to maintain and enhance free
communications for the Sault Ste. Marie owned the Greektown Casino in Detroit, services that help people find jobs and improve their lives.
tribe. The multi-client lobbying firm of but it filed for bankruptcy in 2008. It’s
Cusmano Kandler and Reed has handled now owned by a group of investors who Find out how you can help improve public library funding in your community.
the Kewadin Gaming Authority’s lobbying are represented in Lansing by Karoub Your voice matters.
duties since ‘09. Associates, Dykema Gossett and Scofes &
Last June, the tribe hired John Wernet, Associates, among others. WWP Strategies,
former Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s right hand a Washington D.C.-based consulting firm
on Indian legal affairs. All told, Wernet’s with strong ties in Michigan is also working
been handling Native American legal issues with the anti-side. Brought to you by OCLC, a nonprofit library cooperative, with funding by a grant from the
for about as long as I’ve been alive. It’s literally all hands on deck — and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Geekthelibrary.org does not support or oppose any candidate for
Richard McLellan, former Gov. Kewadin Lansing dream is, publicly, only
public office and does not take positions on legislation.
John Engler’s legal counsel and a well- days old.12 www.lansingcitypulse.com City Pulse • January 25, 2012
Arts&Culture
Creepy, kooky, mysterious, spooky — and singing?
art • books • film • music • theater
Morticia gets in touch with her inner diva in the 'Addams Family' musical
By JON JAMES that the creators “went back to the draw- herself with the cartoons as well. Since
One of America’s most macabre ing board for touring to add a conflict,” the musical draws mostly from Addams’
clans gets a musical makeover in “The in the form of a major secret between illustrations, Gettelfinger says that she
Addams Family.” Based on Charles Wednesday, the teenaged daughter of “most directly associates with the com-
Addams’ original one-panel cartoons the family, and mother Morticia. ics from the 1930s” in developing her
from The New Yorker, the show prom- Chicago Sun-Times the- interpretation of Morticia.
ises to be a family-friendly take on the ater critic Hedy Weiss not- ‘The Addams The cast includes Douglas
darker side of life. ed the musical “has been Family’ Sills as Gomez, Cortney Wolfson
Sara Gettelfinger, who plays Morticia quite radically reworked 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. as Wednesday, Blake Hammond
Addams, says the script plays up the and ideally cast. And in 31. Wednesday, Feb. 1
and Thursday, Feb. 2; as Uncle Fester, Patrick D.
morbid humor in the family’s relation- the process, the show 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3; 2 Kennedy as Pugsly, Tom Corbeil
ships, tendencies, activities and connec- has finally found its true 1and 8 p.m. Sat., Feb. 4;
and 6:30 p.m. Sunday,
as Lurch and Pippa Pearthree as
tions to the outside world that has made self. The show is far more Feb. 5 Grandma.
the franchise so popular since the com- involving, far funnier, far Wharton Center Due to the longevity of the
$30-$70
ics debuted in the 1930s. Addams’ cre- more charming, far sexier franchise, the Addams Family
(800) WHARTON
ation inspired a long-running sitcom, and far more focused on www.whartoncenter.com has young fans who encountered
several animated cartoons, three movies Morticia and Gomez.” it through the films in the 1990s,
(including 1991's “The Addams Family” Weiss called Gettelfinger as well as much older followers
Courtesy Photo and 1993's “Addams Family Values”) and “statuesque,” adding that she “easily sug- who first learned about it from the car-
now a musical comedy, which played gests her character’s heat and humor.” toons. Gettlefinger says that “the show
Sara Gettelfinger's Broadway credits include "Nine" 725 performances on Broadway. “When I was a kid,” Gettelfinger says, is really designed for the whole family,”
and "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels." She plays Morticia Although it’s based on the Broadway “I watched the TV show regularly. I was and that the production will be a “great
in the musical version of "The Addams Family," musical, the national tour takes a slight- also a big fan of the movies.” After taking way to get kids into the habit of going to
which opens Tuesday at the Wharton Center. ly different approach. Gettelfinger says on the role of Morticia, she familiarized the theater.”
Share and share alike Joe Torok/City Pulse
The renovated East
Lansing Food Co-op
Renovated East Lansing Food Co-op hosts features new meat
a grand reopening celebration Sunday and cheese coolers,
a new meat freezer
By JOE TOROK has invested in new shelv- and new bulk food
The East Lansing Food Co-op is looking ing, energy supereffi- bins. Five years
good these days, thanks largely to extensive cient LCD lighting and an ago, the business
renovations that took a year to come to frui- Americans with Disabilities was on the verge of
tion. ELFCO — which is starting its 36th Act-compliant bathroom closing, but general
year — celebrates the accomplishment with with natural light from solar manager Dave Finet
a grand re-opening Sunday. tubes. says conditions
Project manager Rachel Adams says Care and detail went into have improved.
that although the store didn’t grow much even the most mundane The co-op, which
in terms of space, the $200,000 worth of operational aspects of the is starting its 36th
renovations did streamline the store. remodeling. A local electri- year, has over
“We made a lot better use of the space cian designed and construct- 30,000 members,
we have,” Adams said. ed custom ballasts for those who pay $60 for a
Shopping aisles LCD lights and strategically share.
East Lansing have been redirected mounted them from various
Food Co-op to improve sightlines, angles, eliminating shadows
the dry produce sec- that might have otherwise been cast by The key to the turnaround, Finet noted, ees. Members also enjoy special discounts,
Re-Opening tion space has dou- shoppers perusing products on a shelf. was getting more of ELFCO’s 3,000-plus once-a-month member appreciation days
10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday, bled and more spe- As much as possible, Adams says, the member-owners involved. “Our owners and priority service on special orders. A
Jan. 29
cialty beers and wine work was completed using local contractors, really stepped up,” Finet said. member share costs $60.
4960 Northwind Dr.,
East Lansing are available than using environmentally friendly techniques. ELFCO welcomes members and non- The Sunday grand reopening includes
(517) 337-1266 ever before. No volatile organic compound paints were members alike to shop its aisles filled with special pricing on items throughout the
elfco.coop There are new used, for instance, and no harmful sealants a rich selection of local, organic, gourmet store, free samples, giveaways and drawings
meat and cheese were used to finish the concrete flooring. and alternative food items, environmen- for gift bags and even chair massages.
coolers, a new meat Five years ago, ELFCO was on the brink tally friendly household supplies, beauty “It’s a chance to invite everyone who’s
freezer and shiny new bulk food bins next of collapse. But things have been steadily products, vitamins, medicinal herbs, essen- ever wondered what we’re doing in our
to an enlarged workspace where grains, improving. “The last four years have been tial oils and much more. little corner of the world to find out what
herbs, and other bulk items can be packed better, so we made the decision to reinvest,” An alternative to corporate-driven gro- we’re all about,” Finet said. “We’re going to
with quite a bit more elbow room. said ELFCO general manager Dave Finet, a cery stores, food co-ops are governed by celebrate and have some fun.”
Among other improvements, ELFCO 25-year veteran of co-ops. members that vote for a board of trust-You can also read
