Michigan Business Network

Originally uploaded April 17th, reloaded April 24th. Chris Holman welcomes back Carrie Rosingana, CEO, CAMW! Capital Area Michigan Works! Lansing, MI, but serving Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton Counties. 1. Now that legislative Spring Break is over, the budget season soon begins in earnest. What's at the top of CAMW!'s wish list? 2. Why is CAMW! and the Michigan Works! Association prioritizing Medicaid work requirement assistance? 3. You're also hoping to see funding for Registered Apprenticeships. How is that funding applied? 4. Going PRO Talent Fund took a pretty big hit in last year's budget, and the governor didn't include it in her recommendation this year. Are you hopeful that it will be retained/put back, and why or why not? 5. Budget crafting is also going on at the federal level. Is there anything from that sphere you'd like to share? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Chris Holman welcomes Jason Mellema, Superintendent. Ingham Intermediate School District, Mason, MI. From a community and economic standpoint, what impact would a nearly $100 million investment in special education facilities have on the region? Why is now the right time to replace or upgrade facilities like the Beekman Center and Heartwood School, rather than continue maintaining older buildings? How does investing in safer, more accessible, and modern learning environments translate into better long-term outcomes for students and the workforce? For taxpayers and business leaders, how should they think about the cost, like the estimated $55 per year on a $200,000 home, relative to the long-term benefits? What opportunities does this bond create for local contractors, suppliers, and economic activity during construction and beyond? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Chris Holman welcomes Madeline Whitford, Director of Property Management, Martin Commercial Properties, Lansing, MI. April 2026's discussion dives into "property management". For a business owner, what does “property management” actually include day-to-day, and how hands-on is your team? How do your property management services help companies control costs while maintaining or improving their facilities? What role does property management play in keeping tenants satisfied and occupancy rates high in commercial buildings? How do you coordinate between leasing, maintenance, and financial services to support a property’s long-term performance? For companies with multiple locations or properties, how can professional property management improve efficiency and reduce risk? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Chris Holman welcomes back Jason Cords, Executive Manager, Shaheen Chevrolet, Shaheen Cadillac, Lansing, MI. There were several questions he wanted to cover with Jason in this conversation: For today’s customers, how do you balance vehicle sales, financing, and service to deliver a full “one-stop” automotive experience? How does having a large inventory and service capacity help you stay competitive in the Mid-Michigan auto market? What role do after-sales services like maintenance, inspections, and protection plans play in building long-term customer relationships and revenue? How do you create a premium, “luxury-level” customer experience across sales, financing, and service to stand out in a competitive auto market? How is Cadillac’s growing EV lineup, like the Cadillac Lyriq and Cadillac Escalade IQ, changing customer demand and dealership strategy today? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Chrtis Holman welcomes back Ben Bakken, CFP®, CEPA®, Senior VP, Lansing Market Director, Tri-Star Trust Bank, Lansing, MI. This is Segment 2 [Ben launching his show, by MBN tradition turns the tables and interviews Chris for his mini-series]: Welcome, Chris. So, now that you've heard the topic, where was the business community regarding this issue back in the 1980s? What changes have you seen in the issue over the years? In 2026, based on your experience, where are things going and trending to? Is the business community focused closely enough on this topic? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Chris Holman welcomes back Ben Bakken, CFP®, CEPA®, Senior VP, Lansing Market Director, Tri-Star Trust Bank, Lansing, MI. Segment 1 [Chris welcomes Ben for his mini-series (The Owner's Game Plan)]: Welcome back, Ben. Remind us about Tri-Star Trust Bank. Could you share about your career path? So, you will be hosting an upcoming mini-series for Michigan Business Network. Tell us about that? Why is it crucial for the business community to understand this topic better in 2026? Any guests or core subtopics you can let us in on at this point? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Chris Holman welcomes back Joe Finkler, inventor, mentor, and board member of Michigan Inventors Coalition, Grand Rapids, MI. What is the Michigan Inventors Summit, and why is it important for entrepreneurs and innovators across the state? Can you talk about Paula Macpherson’s role as Chair of MIC2026 and the impact her leadership brings to this year’s summit as you celebrate your 14th year? For someone with a new product idea, what value does attending this event provide in terms of turning that idea into a business? The “Spin, Pitch, & Sell” competition is a big highlight, what opportunities does it create for inventors looking to grow or gain exposure? What are the biggest challenges inventors face when bringing a product to market, and how does this summit help address them? How does the Michigan Inventors Coalition support long-term business growth and strengthen Michigan’s innovation economy? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Chris Holman welcomes back Suzanne Greenberg, CEO/Executive Director of Children Trust Michigan, Lansing, MI. Children Trust Michigan has been working to keep kids safe for almost 45 years, but some folks may not be entirely familiar with your efforts. Can you give our listeners a quick picture of what the organization does and why the work of child abuse prevention matters? April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. How has Children Trust Michigan been raising awareness, and what message do you most want Michigan families, businesses, and community leaders to take away from your efforts? Research consistently shows that investing in childhood wellbeing pays dividends for community health and economic vitality down the road. How can Michigan businesses play a meaningful role in strengthening families? Next month, you have another big event coming up. The Pam Posthumus Signature Auction is one of the state’s most anticipated philanthropic occasions. What makes this auction so important to the mission of Children Trust Michigan? Each year, the Auction features a unique Mission Moment. Can you explain to listeners what that is and the impact it has? For listeners who want to get involved, whether as individuals, organizations, or corporate partners. What are the best ways to support prevention efforts throughout the year? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Chris Holman welcomes back Alexander S. Rusek, Shareholder, Foster Swift Attorneys, Lansing, 5 branches across MI. What does this ruling mean for how businesses and employees should use AI tools when dealing with legal or sensitive matters? If employees are using AI platforms like Claude or ChatGPT, what risks could that create for confidentiality and legal protection? How should companies update their policies or training to prevent accidental loss of attorney-client privilege? Does this decision change how business leaders should think about using AI for strategy, problem-solving, or internal discussions? What practical steps can organizations take right now to safely use AI without exposing themselves to legal or compliance risks? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Recording Date: March 25, 2026 Location: Capital Region International Airport (LAN) Rick Snyder - CEO at SensCy Gateway, Avalon, Ardesta, State of Michigan Rick Snyder served two terms as Governor of Michigan from 2011-2018. He led an economically depressed bottom 10 state to top-10 status in eight years. Michigan became a national and regional leader in private sector job creation and increases in per capita income. He was responsible for restructuring Detroit, which was critical to enabling its great comeback. Multiple other major economic, educational, infrastructure, cybersecurity and quality of life programs were implemented during tenure. Rick also founded two $100 million venture capital investment firms – Avalon Investments and Ardesta. Successful exits included Health Media, HandiLab and Esperion. Snyder previously served as chairman and president of Gateway which was a leading PC company. During his six years working at Gateway, it grew from 600 to 13,000 employees and $600mm to $6 billion in revenue. His career began at Coopers & Lybrand where he rose to partner in six years where he did tax and mergers and acquisitions services. He has been actively involved in many non-profits, including service as the first chair of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and Ann Arbor Spark. For information about SensCy® go to: https://senscy.com/about/ View Presentation PDF https://michiganbusinessnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/Combined_Presentation_Rick_Snyder_2026-03-25.pdf The SensCy Score® To schedule your SensCy Score™ go to: https://senscy.com/the-senscy-score/ » Visit MBN website: http://www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: http://www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: http://twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Chris Holman speaks with Larry Johnson Sr., founder of Brotherhood Against Drugs and Magic of Literacy in Lansing, Michigan. Larry shares his powerful personal journey and how it led him to dedicate more than three decades to helping individuals overcome addiction, rebuild their lives, and find hope through recovery. His organization works with individuals in jails, prisons, and the broader community to shift mindsets and create new opportunities. The conversation also highlights Magic of Literacy, a newer initiative focused on improving reading skills among young students. Larry explains how early intervention—especially at the critical third-grade level—can dramatically improve long-term academic outcomes. He also discusses partnerships with local schools and the goal of expanding these programs across Lansing, along with the ongoing need for community support, funding, and engagement. » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Chris Holman welcomes back Payton Heins, President and CEO, Northern Lakes Economic Alliance, Boyne City, MI. Welcome back, Payton. Share who the NLEA is/what you do? The NLEA produces bi-annual snapshots [Economic Pulse Reports] of the top issues you're hearing from business leaders across your region. Could you share key takeaways from the most recent report? And, how are you preparing for the next Spring release? Tell us about the upcoming Economic Symposium at Boyne Mountain on May 15? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ Global Economic Leader David Malpass to Keynote 2026 Economic Symposium at Boyne Mountain Resort Tickets Now on Sale for May 15 Event Highlighting Northern Michigan’s Economic Future Northern Michigan — The Northern Lakes Economic Alliance (NLEA) is proud to announce that David Malpass, former President of the World Bank, will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2026 Economic Symposium, taking place May 15 from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Boyne Mountain Resort. Tickets are now on sale for both individual attendees and full table reservations, offering businesses, organizations, and community leaders an opportunity to engage in one of Northern Michigan’s premier economic events. Attendees will have an opportunity to discuss and influence economic growth, while networking with fellow private and public sector leaders from around the region. Born and raised in Northern Michigan, Malpass is excited to bring his global expertise home to support the region’s continued economic growth and resilience. A globally recognized leader in international finance and economic policy, Malpass brings decades of experience across government, global institutions, and the private sector. He currently serves as Distinguished Fellow in International Finance with Purdue University, based in Indiana and Washington, D.C. Malpass led the World Bank from 2019 to 2023, guiding the institution through unprecedented global challenges, including pandemic response and economic recovery efforts worldwide. Prior to that role, he served as U.S. Treasury Undersecretary for International Affairs from 2017 to 2019. His career also includes 24 years as a leading Wall Street economist and columnist with Forbes and The Wall Street Journal. “Having a leader of David’s caliber join us underscores the significance of this year’s Symposium,” said Sam Bailey, Strategic Initiatives Manager. “His perspective on global markets, economic development, and long-term growth will provide valuable insight for businesses, policymakers, and community leaders across our region.” This year’s theme of the Economic Symposium is “Made, Grown, and Built in Northern Michigan,” highlighting the foundational industries that power the region’s prosperity while exploring strategies for sustainable growth in a changing global economy. To purchase tickets or reserve a full table, visit https://thenlea.com/calendar/2026-economic-symposium/ About the NLEA The Northern Lakes Economic Alliance is a nonprofit regional economic development organization. NLEA’s mission is to drive economic resiliency by ensuring the resources, infrastructure, and policies exist to fuel business growth and community prosperity in Northern Michigan. For more information about the NLEA, visit www.thenlea.com

Chris Holman welcomes back Erin Kaylor, President of BIGGBY® COFFEE, East Lansing, MI. Welcome back Erin, BIGGBY was recently ranked the #2 coffee chain nationally. What do you think drove that recognition? You’ve managed to stand out in a very crowded coffee market. What is BIGGBY doing differently from competitors? Your brand recently went through a visual refresh. What was the strategy behind that, and what impact are you seeing so far? BIGGBY has talked about a goal of becoming a $1 billion company by 2028. What does that growth roadmap look like? As a Michigan-based company gaining national attention, what lessons can other businesses take from your growth and branding strategy? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ Erin Kaylor, President of BIGGBY® COFFEE, joined Chris to discuss the East Lansing-based brand’s recent national recognition as the #2 best coffee chain. It is a massive milestone for the brand, as they outranked major industry players including Starbucks, Dunkin’, Dutch Bros, and Caribou Coffee. BIGGBY earned this coveted spot following their 30th anniversary, which included a strategic visual identity refresh. This evolution is designed to differentiate the brand in a crowded category as they make strides toward becoming a $1 billion company by 2028. Erin can also share more insights into: How BIGGBY is successfully disrupting the coffee category. The strategy behind their recent rebrand and "Making it Better" philosophy. What the roadmap to $1 billion looks like for a Michigan-born business. BIGGBY® COFFEE Named No. 2 Best Coffee Chain in the Nation by USA Today The people have spoken — BIGGBY® COFFEE tops Starbucks, Dunkin’, Dutch Bros and Caribou in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. EAST LANSING, Mich. — BIGGBY® COFFEE(goes to new website), the 450-plus unit high-energy coffee franchise, has officially been named the No. 2 Best Coffee Chain(goes to new website) in the United States by USA Today’s10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards(goes to new website). The brand ranked above major national players including Starbucks, Dunkin’, Dutch Bros, Scooter’s and Caribou Coffee. The annual USA Today poll recognizes the most beloved coffee brands across the nation, with nominations and rankings determined by coffee lovers and readers nationwide. BIGGBY® COFFEE’s ranking highlights its growing reputation as a franchise built on connection, community and consistency — not just caffeine. “We’re beyond honored to see BIGGBY® COFFEE(goes to new website) recognized among the top coffee chains in the country — and even more proud that this ranking comes from our guests,” said President Erin Kaylor(goes to new website). “This isn’t just a win for our brand; it’s a win for every barista, franchise owner and community that has embraced our mission to make the world a better place, one cup at a time.” Since opening its first shop in East Lansing, Michigan, in 1995, BIGGBY® has built its success on simple values: to build communities where people feel connected, valued, uplifted and inspired. The 100% franchise-owned brand continues to expand nationwide while staying rooted in its purpose-driven approach — to create a world where people are energized by purpose, connected by community, and uplifted through everyday interactions. “This recognition validates what our customers and franchise owners already know — BIGGBY® COFFEE is different,” said CEO Mike McFall(goes to new website). “We’ve never chased trends or corporate metrics. We’ve focused on people, and people are the reason we’re here. We’re grateful to everyone who voted and continues to share in our journey.” For more information on BIGGBY® COFFEE or franchise opportunities, visit www.biggby.com.

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Julie Staveland, Assistant Division Director for the Materials Management Division, EGLE, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes & Energy, For those who may not be familiar, what is Michigan’s “Clean, Safe and Affordable” Home Energy Roadmap, and why is it important for Michigan right now? How will more energy-efficient and all-electric homes help lower monthly costs for families? The roadmap highlights major health benefits. How does the way we power our homes impact public health? What does this plan mean for Michigan’s economy and job growth moving forward? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ ‘Clean, Safe, and Affordable’ guide addresses health, cost savings, decarbonization A new policy roadmap lays out plans to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from Michigan’s residential building sector by 2050 while creating jobs, improving safety, and lowering utility bills. And the real payoff could come in lives saved and life-threatening illnesses avoided. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) released “Clean, Safe, and Affordable: A Policy Roadmap for Efficient and All-Electric Homes in Michigan” to provide policy recommendations for energy efficiency and building electrification, charting a course to meet statewide building decarbonization goals. It's predicted to avert more than 2,800 premature deaths and nearly 39,000 asthma attacks a year, according to the Energy Policy Simulator, a publicly available modeling tool developed by Rocky Mountain Institute and Energy Innovation. The roadmap builds on the foundation established by Michigan’s Home Energy Rebates (MiHER) program, which is delivering federally funded energy efficiency and electrification upgrades to income-qualified households across the state. While MiHER accelerates improvements in eligible homes today, the policy roadmap outlines long-term strategies needed to extend similar benefits across Michigan’s entire housing stock — including market-rate homes, rental properties, and new construction. The roadmap serves as a key implementation strategy for the state’s MI Healthy Climate Plan, which sets a goal of economy-wide carbon neutrality by 2050. Because residential buildings account for a significant share of Michigan’s greenhouse gas emissions, transforming how homes are heated, cooled, and powered is essential to meeting statewide climate targets. For example, the roadmap sets a goal of installing 2.8 million heat pumps for residential heating by 2040. Heat pumps offer high efficiency, lower operating costs, and environmental benefits. The roadmap outlines policy recommendations including updated building codes, expanded financing tools, improved electric rate design, workforce development strategies, and coordinated utility programs to ensure a just and equitable transition for Michigan residents. Enacting its recommendations is predicted to create more than 160,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2050. “Clean energy in our homes is about more than carbon reduction — it’s about protecting public health and lowering costs for Michigan families,” said EGLE Director Phil Roos. “Michigan is already putting this vision into action through programs like MiHER,” said Julie Staveland, assistant director of EGLE’s Materials Management Division. “This roadmap ensures we don’t stop there. It provides a clear path to scale energy efficiency and electrification across all homes in Michigan — lowering costs for families while protecting public health and the climate.”

Chris Holman welcomes Meghan Hubbs, Small Business Programs Manager, Velocity, Sterling Heights, MI. Tell us a little about Velocity and its role in supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses in Macomb County? Can you briefly explain the Professional Fellows Program and how Velocity became involved bringing it to Macomb County? From your time in Morocco, what key lessons or insights stood out that could apply to small businesses here? What similarities did you see between entrepreneurs in Morocco and those in Michigan, especially around challenges and growth? How do international exchanges like this benefit local businesses and the broader regional economy? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ VELOCITY STRENGTHENS MACOMB COUNTY’S ROLE AND EXPANDS GLOBAL TIES THROUGH MOROCCO EXCHANGE U.S. Department of State exchange empowers local small business leader to connect with international entrepreneurs Sterling Heights, MI — Velocity, a Sterling Heights business incubator, accelerator and coworking hub, is strengthening its global partnerships and expanding Macomb County’s role in the international innovation ecosystem following Meghan Hubbs’ participation in the Professional Fellows Program for the Middle East and North Africa, a U.S. Department of State-sponsored initiative. Hubbs, Velocity’s small business programs manager, was selected, along with Cynthia Respert of REBRANDX, to participate in a 10-day outbound exchange in Morocco after Velocity served as a host organization for international fellows Mawlay Hassan of Morocco and Mohamed Texana of Algeria through the program. The exchange is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and managed in partnership with Legacy International and Global Ties Detroit, which serves as the local inbound placement partner. During her time abroad, Hubbs engaged with business leaders, innovation hubs, universities and economic development organizations to explore Morocco’s entrepreneurial landscape. The delegation was hosted by Amideast, an American education and training organization with a longstanding presence in Morocco, and the U.S. Embassy in Rabat. The visit overlapped with America’s 250th Anniversary Alumni Summit on Jan. 24 in Salé. The summit convened hundreds of Moroccan alumni of U.S. government exchange programs to celebrate 250 years of American independence and the milestone of 10,000 Moroccan participants in these initiatives. It highlighted the long-term impact of U.S.-inspired leadership, innovation and entrepreneurship through high-level panels, hands-on workshops and an innovation exhibition, reaffirming the enduring U.S.-Morocco partnership and commitment to shared economic growth. Hubbs led interactive workshops on building and scaling small businesses, professionalizing creative enterprises, strengthening cooperative mentorship and sustainability, and mastering pitch preparation. She also participated in a panel focused on practical AI adoption for small- and medium-sized enterprises and impactful small-business support strategies. “We are incredibly proud of Meghan for representing Velocity and our region through this prestigious international exchange,” Macpherson said. “Her dedication to strengthening small businesses and building meaningful partnerships ### ABOUT VELOCITY Velocity is designed to accelerate innovation, reinvention, and growth for Macomb County businesses. Located in the Sterling Innovation District, our incubator, accelerator, and coworking space offer world-class opportunities to help businesses thrive.

Chris Holman welcomes back Zac Clark, General Manager, Lansing Lugnuts, Lansing, MI Athletics' affiliation is at an interesting time. Tell us about Sacramento, and are they close to going to Las Vegas? So, Zac, your season is about to get underway. Remind Michigan about the Crosstown Rivalry with MSU? What sort of economic impact for Mid-Michigan should we expect from this season? Can you speak to your ties with local companies like LAFCU and Jackson, and the philanthropy that comes out of these relationships? What are the other sneak previews you can give for 2026? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ LANSING, Mich. – In concert with the Athletics, the Lansing Lugnuts announce a Break Camp roster led by five MLB Pipeline Top 30 A’s prospects: Devin Taylor (No. 8), Steven Echavarria (No. 16), Zane Taylor (No. 19), Nate Nankil (No. 26) and Bobby Boser (No. 30). An official Opening Day roster will be finalized before the Nuts open their 30th season at Jackson® Field™ at 6:05 p.m. on Thursday, April 2, vs. Dayton. A closer look at the roster for the 30th season of Lugnuts baseball, featuring 14 returning players and 16 newcomers to Michigan’s state capital: Starting Rotation - Lansing’s rotation is expected to combine 2025 Nuts Steven Echavarria, Kyle Robinson, and Tzu-Chen Sha with newcomers Zane Taylor, Samuel Dutton, and Jackson Finley. All six pitchers are right-handed. The 20-year-old Echavarria led the Nuts last season with 25 starts, while Robinson posted seven quality starts, and Sha was part of Chinese Taipei’s 2026 World Baseball Classic squad. Taylor, the A’s 2025 fifth-round pick from UNC Wilmington, led all D-I pitchers in K/BB ratio and WHIP; Dutton, drafted in the tenth round from Auburn, led the Tigers in wins and strikeouts and was named All-SEC; and Finley, a two-way standout at Georgia Tech, returns to action after missing the 2025 season. Bullpen - Here there be southpaws, namely 2025 Nuts Jack Mahoney and Ryan Magdic plus newcomers Tucker Novotny, a standout at Minnesota, and Riley Huge, who struck out 20 batters in a sensational 7 2/3-inning gem while at Winthrop University. More familiar faces abound, too, with Jake Garland (2023-2025) entering his fourth year in Lansing, Jose Dicochea (2023-2024) making his third appearance, and Luis Carrasco (2024) returning after a season lost due to injury. Ryan Brown, one of the Pac-12’s top closers at Oregon State, also returns to action after missing 2025. A trio of new A’s acquisitions top things off: Abel Mercedes from the Houston Astros and Darlin Pinales from the Arizona Diamondbacks, both selected in the Rule 5 Draft, and Gerlin Rosario, picked up from the Tampa Bay Rays in a trade for former Lugnut Cooper Bowman. Led by manager Javier Godard, the 2026 Lugnuts first take the field against the Michigan State Spartans in the Crosstown Showdown on Wednesday, April 1, at 6:05 p.m. at Jackson® Field™ before opening the season with a three-game homestand vs. Dayton from April 2-4. Tickets are available at the stadium box office, 517-485-4500 and milb.com/lansing. # # #

Chris Holman welcomes Zack Bishop, President, 4 Flutes Machining, Vicksburg, Michigan. Welcome, Zach, tell us about 4 Flutes Machining? Your company has been recognized in the past for awards from Michigan Celebrates Small Business. What has that recognition meant for your company? We asked your team to review the most recent Michigan Future Business Index survey results. What were your impressions? Do the M.F.B.I. findings match your business's experience? What are 4 Flutes Machining's biggest optimism and biggest challenge? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Chris Holman welcomes Nicole Noll-Williams back for March 2026 from the MBN studio at the Capital Region International Airport. Nicole is president and CEO of the Capital Region Airport Authority, Lansing, MI. How has the international flight season gone this year for the airport? The economic impact by the airport is still often overlooked? Road work in three stages begins soon around the airport. How will this impact things? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Chris Holman welcomes Brent Forsberg, Developer, Lansing Growth Fund, Lansing, MI. with Kelli Ellsworth Etchison, Chief Marketing Officer, and Chief Diversity Officer, LAFCU, Lansing, MI. Welcome, Brent, tell us about Lansing Growth Fund? Welcome, Kelli, tell us why you are supporting the Lansing Growth Fund and the project they are working on? Brent, please share more details about the Holmes Pleasant Grove Project for Southwest Lansing? Kelli, what will it mean for that portion of Lansing to have access to a LAFCU branch? Brent, what are the next steps for this project? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Chris Holman welcomes back Kristina Johnston, Chief Operating Officer at Flint & Genesee Group, Flint, MI. The Flint & Genesee Group held its Annual Meeting on Wednesday. Tell us about this year's theme — Partnering with Purpose? As that event looked back on 2025, what were some of your organization's biggest successes or achievements? Who were some winners of the Group's award divisions? How do these wins impact Genesee County's residents and small businesses? You referenced some of the policy changes that happened both at the federal and state levels. How did the Group work support businesses amidst those changes? Dr. Bobby Mukkamala was your keynote. What were some of the key takeaways from his presentation? As you look ahead, what opportunities or challenges should Flint & Genesee be preparing for in 2026? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ Flint & Genesee Group Reveals Honorees of 2025 Art of Achievement Awards Highlights include $50.5M in private investment, group travel generating an estimated $18M of economic impact, and new/retained talent representing $2M in impact (Flint, Mich., March 25, 2026) Today, the Flint & Genesee Group reported on its accomplishments in 2025 during the organization’s annual meeting – themed “Partnering with Purpose” – at the FIM Capitol Theatre. As part of the presentation, CEO Tim Herman noted two central themes that emerged while developing the organization’s latest annual report: change and collaboration. He pointed to a shifting landscape shaped by a new federal administration, evolving state-level policies, and the continued growth of artificial intelligence, among other factors. “Through all of this, the Flint & Genesee Group stayed focused on advancing the Forward Together vision of making Flint & Genesee a top-five county in Michigan by 2040,” said Herman. “And we did that by working together to improve outcomes in the spaces of jobs, talent, livability, and equity.” Herman also emphasized the critical role of partnerships in driving these efforts forward. “The work we do absolutely could not be done without others,” he said. “Strong, intentional partnerships are essential to achieving meaningful, long-term impact across our community.” The annual report noted that — in addition to helping businesses understand and prepare for new laws that went into effect in 2025 — the Flint & Genesee Chamber established the Mid-Michigan Nonprofit Professionals. It also revitalized the Disability Works committee with support from partners at the Genesee Intermediate School District, The Disability Network, Peckham Industries, Genesee County Parks, and other leading organizations. Additionally, the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance closed on three major development deals that will result in $50.5 million of private investment and the creation of 317 new jobs for Genesee County. These included Fluid Cooling Systems, Custom Air Handling, and Miller Industries. Finally, the Flint & Genesee Group advocated on behalf of the region’s business community, specifically around bills that pertained to work in business, talent, and place, such as the Earned Sick Time Act and the Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act. It also celebrated being awarded a Top Workplaces honor by the Detroit Free Press for the third consecutive year. Please note that the highlights included here just skim the surface of all that was accomplished in 2025. For a more thorough overview, visit AnnualReport.FlintandGenesee.org.