TESTIMONIALS

"Cliffs Natural Resources has been a member and partner with the LSCP since the Partnership was formed. As the lead oganization for economic development in Marquette County, the LSCP has consistently supported Cliffs' expansion projects and new endeavors. LSCP support and assistance for Cliffs and other businesses throughout Marquette County fosters community growth and helps Marquette County continue to prosper as a shining spot in Michigan's economy and an extraordinary place to live and do business."

- Dale Hemmila, District Manager for Public Affairs - Michigan, Cliffs Natural Resources

“Being a business owner in Marquette County presents both challenges and blessings. The challenges come from being a little off the beaten path: It takes a little longer for things to get here from the major distribution areas in the country and shipping costs more because of our location, as well. The blessings also come from being a little off the beaten path: The pace of life in Marquette County is a little slower than the bigger cities, my daily commute is only 5 minutes, and Lake Superior is right across the street. Having an internet based company allows me the flexibility to live where I choose, and I choose to live in Marquette County, as do my employees. Also, the talent pool in Marquette County is very good. Our employees are well educated and energetic. Most have degrees from Northern Michigan University or are currently students. Although we sell very little to local businesses, the LSCP has helped me to get in contact with other internet based businesses in the community. We meet each other periodically to bounce marketing and web site ideas off each other. Our plans are to stay and grow in Marquette County. This is our home!”

- Terry Dehring, Local Entrepreneur, Quick Trophy

 "The LSCP provides great one stop shopping for grant writers like myself who need up to the minute economic and demographic data. Funders want to know our community in depth and the information that the LSCP provides is vital in obtaining grant resources for our community." 

- George Sedlacek, Community Health Director, Marquette County Health Department

“The Up North Lodge became a part of The Key to the County as soon as we joined the LSCP. It's been a great way to reward other LSCP members and to help spur on business during down times. We've also enjoyed being able to reward our employees with The Key so that they may take advantage of ours and other businesses discounts. We're proud to be a member of the LSCP and love being able to give back to its members. Thanks LSCP!”

- Cheryl Wootton, General Manager, The Up North Lodge

“As a member of LSCP, Teaching Family Homes appreciates the assistance of the Partnership in helping us connect more with the community as a whole. LSCP recognizes the vital business role that non-profits contribute to their communities. Non-profit agencies are businesses too. TFH employs over 50 individuals in Marquette County alone and contributes just under $4 million in our annual budget. Over the past five years we have contributed an additional $3 million in construction of our campus buildings, allowing for year-round construction employment. The Partnership has participated in ribbon-cutting and ground breaking ceremonies for each phase of our development, as well as including non-profits in Business After Hours events. This has provided us additional exposure to the business community. We are grateful for their connection!”

- Chris Meyers, CEO, Teaching Family Homes

"My participation in the LSCP Marketing and Membership committee has given me the chance to network with other marketing professionals in the Marquette County community, to become more aware of how my organization can play a role in economic development and gain perspectives from other industries. The Marquette County community already has a strong network of individuals and organizations that come together to pull off all sorts of events and accomplishments. LSCP committee members can extend, renew and build on that network. It’s also a lot of fun. The folks on our committee are bright, lively and have great ideas, no matter what the challenge."

- Anne Stark, Marketing Director, Northern Michigan University

"At the Marquette General Foundation, we have found the LSCP’s Business After Hours/Business Showcases provide unique and important opportunities to network, educate people about our Foundation and Marquette General Health System as well as interact with local business people. The informal social setting for these well-attended events, after normal work hours, is a convenient and effective time for relaxed conversations, meeting new people, and for exchange of business information, ideas, business cards, etc."

- Pam Benton, Operations and Special Events Manager, Marquette General Foundation

“The LSCP annual golf outing provides an excellent opportunity for networking with other area business persons in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.”

- Tom Edmark, Owner, Iron Range Agency

“The Superior Alliance for Independent Living (SAIL) is a Lake Superior Community Partner (LSCP). It is through the benefits of this partnership that we are able to provide full health care benefits from BCBS for our employees since 1999. We have appreciated being able to take advantage of this benefit so more of our resources can go directly into our programs and services, meeting the needs of our community members with disabilities.”

- Amy Maes, Executive Director, Superior Alliance for Independent Living