WAYLAND CHAMBER CELEBRATES AT ANNUAL KICK-OFF

From Left: Charlie DeVries (ITC), Michigan House of Representatives Tommy Brann, and Karyn Boyd (ITC) – Many thanks for ITC for being the Title Sponsor of the 2017 Chamber Kick-Off Luncheon

Members of the Wayland Area Chamber of Commerce gathered on February 17th in the Grand Hall of the Wayland Union School’s Fine Arts Center for their Annual Kick-Off Luncheon presented by Title Sponsor ITC and supported by Contributing Sponsor Edward Jones.

This year’s guest speaker was Michigan House of Representatives, 77th District, Tommy Brann. Representative Brann has been a strong advocate for small businesses since the age of 19 when he opened his first restaurant –Tommy Brann’s Sizzling Steaks and Sports Grille in Wyoming. It was at that time, that Brann began creating jobs for others. He currently is owner and operator of Brann’s Restaurants, which has several locations across Michigan including the same first restaurant, in Wyoming, that has been open for 45 years. When not in Lansing, you will still find Brann working at that original location. In addition, Brann authored a book titled, Mind Your Own Business, which is about small business lessons and free enterprise.

During his presentation, Brann expressed his support of small businesses and his vow to work effortlessly to ensure Lansing spends our tax dollars efficiently. He is also a strong advocate of law enforcement and discussed how he believes there is a need to set aside funding for additional law enforcement to respond to emergencies in our communities and problem areas within our state.  Pro-actively increasing our law enforcement teams will offer more protection for our families and homes.

Brann also stated his strong advocacy for our children and wants to ensure they have opportunities to open their own businesses and create jobs. Through Brann’s education pursuits, children will have the opportunity to learn about Free Enterprise in classroom courses allowing the next generation to live the American dream. Brann strongly encourages giving back to others and how mentorship is key to struggling students.

The Wayland Area Chamber of Commerce is an independent, private, non-profit organization financed by its members to promote business and advocate on their behalf. The Chamber is committed to providing networking opportunities and educational programs through seminars, meetings and luncheons. For additional information on the chamber or chamber benefits, please contact Denise Behm, Chamber Executive Director, at denise@waylandchamber.org or 269.792.9246.