News
HANTZ FARMS PRESS RELEASE
April 2009
DETROIT, Mich., Mar. 23 – Preliminary plans for a newly developed urban farm within the City of Detroit will utilize vacant land and abandoned property to create Hantz Farms, the world's largest urban farm, announced John Hantz, CEO of Hantz Farms, LLC.
“Detroit could be the nation's leading example of urban farming and become a destination for fresh, local and natural foods and become a major part of the green movement,” said Hantz, a Detroit resident. “Hantz Farms will transform this area into a viable, beautiful and sustainable area that will serve the community, increase the tax base, create jobs and greatly improve the quality of life in an area that has experienced a severe decline in population.”
Phase 1 plans utilize more than 70 acres of underutilized vacant lands and abandoned properties on Detroit's lower east side.
Hantz Farms plans to grow natural, local, fresh and safe fruits and vegetables to help meet Michigan's increasing demand for locally grown produce. In addition to food and trees, Hantz Farms will harvest wind energy and utilize geothermal heat and biomass fuel from recycling compost.
Hantz Farms is working directly with Michigan State University to add its expertise on agricultural and soil sciences and consulting with the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, a national leader in community-based food systems.
“It makes great sense to utilize the blighted and abandoned land in the city to produce fresh, nutritious food for local consumers,” said Rick Foster, vice president for programs at the Kellogg Foundation. “Urban development projects like this one not only create good food and connection to nature, but serve as an economic development anchor for others in the community.”
“Urban agriculture is an opportunity to provide an effective economic development program for the Detroit community. MSU's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources has been providing expert advice to Hantz Farms along with the MSU's Michigan Agriculture Experiment Station and MSU Extension to develop a productive outreach and engagement program as part of the proposal,” said Jeffry D. Armstrong, Dean of the Michigan State University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. “This is a challenging and exciting opportunity.”
Heading up Hantz Farms LLC, will be Matt Allen, a Detroit resident and advocate for Hantz's vision.
“The combination of land consolidation, blight removal, conservation of city services and the beautification of the city itself are just some of the byproducts that will come from our commitment to urban farming,” Allen said. “We're very excited to be able to make strides in helping to make Detroit a progressive, world-class leader in providing fresh, locally grown food that's safe and purely Detroit.”
Once the project is approved by Detroit city officials, work would begin immediately and the farm would be operating within six months.
About John Hantz: John R. Hantz is the CEO of Hantz Group, Inc. and is a nationally recognized leader in the financial community. In 1998, Hantz formed Hantz Financial Services and subsequently Hantz Group, Inc., a full-service financial holding company based in Southfield, Michigan. Under his leadership, Hantz Group, Inc. has grown to more than 550 employees and maintains 23 offices serving communities in Michigan and Ohio.
A Detroit resident, Hantz is a supporter of numerous community projects and an active member of the Michigan higher education system. He is responsible for the renovation and restoration of 11 homes in Detroit's historic Indian Village neighborhood and is an active member of several downtown organizations.
About Matt Allen: Matt Allen is the Senior Vice President of Hantz Farms, LLC and recently joined the Hantz Group after concluding a governmental appointment as Press Secretary for the City of Detroit. A former broadcast journalist, Allen also has experience in the mortgage industry as a loan consultant and has 7 years of retail management experience with Dayton Hudson, Target and TJX.
A Detroit resident, Allen also served honorably for more than 13 years in the United States Army and Army Reserve as part of the Military Police Corps.
Hantz Farms
HANTZ AGENCY, LLC honored as one of the country’s best by The Hanover Insurance Group
April 2008
HOWELL, MI (April X, 2008) – Citizen’s Insurance, a company of The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (NYSE: THG), a leading super regional property and casualty company, recently honored Hantz Agency, LLC with its Top Personal Lines Agency Award.
The award was presented last month at The Hanover’s 2008 President’s Club conference, an annual gathering of an elite group of agencies from across the country.
Hantz Agency, LLC was selected from approximately 3,000 agents for the award, which was granted in recognition of the agency’s ability to provide customers with a broad range of coverage for home, auto, umbrella and ancillary items such as boats. In addition, Hantz Agency, LLC was recognized for its deep commitment to the industry, growth and partnership.
“We are proud to honor Hantz Agency with this award for the second year in a row,” said Jim Hyatt, president of The Hanover Insurance Group’s personal lines. “Hantz Agency, LLC exemplifies was it means to be an independent agent, delivering expert advice, dedicated service and a wide range of personal lines products to meet the needs of individuals and families throughout the community.”
About Hantz Agency, LLC
HantzGroupSM is a full-service financial holding company started in January 1998. The agency prides itself on the excellence of services it provides to clients through its subsidiary, Hantz Financial Services, Inc. The agency’s goal is simple: To help customers achieve personal goals and financial security by offering a variety of products and services with what it considers to be the “best of breed”, at any given time.
In coordination with other Hantz Group services, the agency’s personal insurance representatives review a families' current and future insurance requirements to provide a protection solution that will provide for all of the families' needs including: Home Owners Insurance, Auto Insurance, Umbrella Insurance and Marine Insurance.
About Citizens
Citizens Insurance Company of America, headquartered in Howell, Michigan, is part of The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (NYSE: THG). The Hanover, based in Worcester, Mass., is the holding company for a group of insurers that includes Citizens Insurance, The Hanover Insurance Company, also based in Worcester, and their affiliates. The Hanover offers a wide range of property and casualty products and services to individuals, families and businesses through an extensive network of independent agents, and has been meeting its obligations to its agent partners and their customers for more than 150 years. Taken as a group, The Hanover ranks among the top 40 property and casualty insurers in the United States.
CONTACTS:
The Hanover
Amy Lynn Banek
abanek@hanover.com
(508) 855-4486
Hantz Group Academic Award established for Deserving Lake Superior State University business students
February 2007
SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – Deserving Lake Superior State University business students will now get a full year’s annual tuition plus real-world experience, thanks to the Hantz Financial Services Group.
The Hantz Group Academic Award is open to any student majoring in business who has reached his or her junior year (88 credits) in good academic standing. Candidates must demonstrate campus or community leadership and/or represent LSSU in any Division I or Division II athletic program.
In return for a full year’s tuition, the student will work with the LSSU business faculty to coordinate a one-day activity for other students on topics such as resume writing, internship opportunities, and interview role-playing.
He or she will also meet once a semester with a representative of the Hantz Group in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., for mentoring. The student will also participate in a one-week internship at Hantz Group’s downstate corporate headquarters.
Candidates may be from anywhere in the world; financial need is a consideration, but not a determining factor. However, only students on a four-year track are eligible for the scholarship. Applicants need to submit a letter of application expressing why they would be good recipients of the award.
A screening committee of LSSU School of Business faculty members and a representative from the Hantz Group’s Sault Ste. Marie office will meet each spring semester to select a successful candidate and, if possible, an alternate. Finalists will be asked to respond in writing to a set of questions.
The Hantz Financial Services Group is a full-service financial holding company with corporate headquarters in Southfield, Mich.
For more information on the Hantz Group Academic Award, or any one of the almost 100 scholarships and awards available at LSSU, call the LSSU Financial Aid office at 906-635-2678, or go to www.lssu.edu/finaid on the Web.
Founded in 1998 Hantz Financial Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Hantz Group <http://www.hantzgroup.com>. The Hantz Group is a full-service financial holding company with 24 locations in Michigan and Ohio serving over 18,000 clients with over $1.3 billion in assets under management. With over 500 employees the full service company provides financial planning, tax planning, investment products, and mortgages through its affiliates.
Hantz Financial Services Named Top Entry Level Employer
Mar 3, 2006
Southfield, MI., March 3, 2006 – The Hantz Group and Hantz Financial Services has been recognized by CollegeGrad.com as one of the top 500 entry level employers in the U.S.
“We are extremely excited about this award. The opportunity we offer to college graduates to be part of something new and innovative within a mature industry is unparalleled,” Linda Barr-Horney, Director of Recruiting, said. “We are very pleased to be recognized for our efforts. We have worked very hard since establishing our firm in 1998, to create an atmosphere that rewards employees for great customer service,” said Barr-Horney.
http://www.collegegrad.com is the #1 Entry Level Job Site on the Internet and is the leader in the field of entry level job search. Established in 1995, CollegeGrad.com has been conducting the Top Entry Level Employers Survey for the past eight years. Brian Krueger is President and Founder of CollegeGrad.com and author of the best-selling book for entry level job search, College Grad Job Hunter.
Founded in 1998 Hantz Financial Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Hantz Group http://www.hantzgroup.com. The Hantz Group is a full-service financial holding company with 24 locations in Michigan and Ohio serving over 18,000 clients with over $1.3 billion in assets under management. With over 500 employees the full service company provides financial planning, tax planning, investment products, and mortgages through its affiliates.
Contact
Al Klein
248-436-0008
al.klein@hantzgroup.com
Founded in 1998 Hantz Financial Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Hantz Group <http://www.hantzgroup.com>. The Hantz Group is a full-service financial holding company with 24 locations in Michigan and Ohio serving over 18,000 clients with over $1.3 billion in assets under management. With over 500 employees the full service company provides financial planning, tax planning, investment products, and mortgages through its affiliates.
INDEPENDENT CONSULTANT INITIAL REPORT IN THE MATTER OF HANTZ FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
Jan 31, 2006
Southfield, MI., Jan 31, 2006 – The attached is the initial report from an independent consultant on the matter of Hantz Financial Services services and the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SECURITIES DEALERS, INC. LETTER OF ACCEPTANCE, WAIVER AND CONSENT NO. EAF-0400060001
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Founded in 1998 Hantz Financial Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Hantz Group <http://www.hantzgroup.com>. The Hantz Group is a full-service financial holding company with 24 locations in Michigan and Ohio serving over 18,000 clients with over $1.3 billion in assets under management. With over 500 employees the full service company provides financial planning, tax planning, investment products, and mortgages through its affiliates.
Hantz Financial Services opens new Grand Rapids Michigan office
Jan 15, 2006
Southfield, MI., Jan 15, 2006 /PRNewswire/ – Hantz Financial Services, Inc. a subsidiary of the Hantz Group, announced the opening of a new office. The new office is located at 2855 44th Street SW., Suite 200, Grandville, MI 49418-2682.
“We have developed a fairly large client base in the Grand Rapids area. Opening this office will help us to continue to grow and serve our clients in the community.” Fadi Baradihi, General Sales Manager, said.
The new office opened with 11 employees. “Our current plan calls for adding 10-15 additional employees in the next two years in this office”, said Baradihi.
Founded in 1998 Hantz Financial Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Hantz Group http://www.hantzgroup.com.
The Hantz Group is a full-service financial holding company with 24 locations in Michigan and Ohio serving over 18,000 clients with over $1.3 billion in assets under management. With over 500 employees the full service company provides financial planning, tax planning, investment products, and mortgages through its affiliates.
Contact:
Al Klein
248-436-0008
al.klein@hantzgroup.com
John Bringard appointed Site Manager of Hantz Financial Services Midland Michigan location
Jan 9, 2006
Southfield, MI., Jan 9, 2006 – Hantz Financial Services, Inc. a subsidiary of the Hantz Group, President John F. Machcinski announced the appointment of John Bringard as Site Manager for their Midland Michigan location, and Bill Thomas as Site manager for their Shelby Twp. Michigan office.
John Bringard CPA, has worked for the past three and half years at Hantz Tax and Business as a tax planning specialist. John has over sixteen years of experience in the financial services industry. He has a BA in Accounting from Northwood University.
Bill Thomas EA, has been an instrumental part of the development of Hantz Tax and Business. Bill has worked for 15 years in the financial industry. He holds a BA in business administration from Central Michigan University and a Masters degree in finance from Walsh College.
Founded in 1998 Hantz Financial Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Hantz Group <http://www.hantzgroup.com>. The Hantz Group is a full-service financial holding company with 24 locations in Michigan and Ohio serving over 18,000 clients with over $1.3 billion in assets under management. With over 500 employees the full service company provides financial planning, tax planning, investment products, and mortgages through its affiliates.
Hantz Financial Services has two of “America’s Best Financial Planners.”
Nov 7th, 2005
Southfield, MI., Nov 7th, 2005 – Hantz Financial Services, Inc. a subsidiary of the Hantz Group, announced that Kathryn Delano and Elizabeth Meagher, two of its financial planners, have been placed on the list of “America’s Best Financial Planners” by the Consumers’ Research Council of America.
Elizabeth (Betsy) Meagher MBA, CFP®, ChFC, CLU, REBC - Vice President of Retirement Services. Betsy has over fifteen years of experience in the financial services industry. Betsy has particular expertise in the areas of retirement plan design for the qualified and non-qualified markets, profit sharing and defined benefit plans, and all vital testing requirements for qualified plans. She has a BA in Economics from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and an MBA from Northwood University.
Kathryn Delano MBA, CFP®, ChFC, REBC - Vice President of Hantz Benefits Services. Kathryn has a decade of experience in the financial industry and was responsible for developing the Hantz Group Educational Services curriculum prior to assuming responsibility for Group Benefits Services. Kathryn has a particular expertise in the areas of plan design for group health insurance and flexible benefits as well as section 125 plans. Kathryn holds BA from Spring Arbor University and an MBA from Northwood University.
Consumers’ Research Council of America is an independent research firm based in Washington, DC that evaluates professional services throughout America. The selection process is based on a point value system that awards points for education, years of practice, and affiliations with professional associations.
Founded in 1998 Hantz Financial Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Hantz Group. The Hantz Group is a full-service financial holding company with 24 offices in Michigan and Ohio serving over 17,000 clients with over $1 billion assets under management.
Fadi Baradihi appointed General Sales Manager of Hantz Financial Services
Sept 26, 2005
Southfield, MI., Sept 26, 2005 – Hantz Financial Services Inc. President John F. Machcinski announced the appointment of Fadi Baradihi to the position of General Sales Manager.
“Fadi Baradihi has done an excellent job in building a strong organization in our Mid Michigan region,” Machcinski said. “His broad, balanced understanding of the enterprise gives him the insights needed to direct our field force.” Baradihi has been with Hantz Financial Services since 1998 serving as Senior Vice President responsible for the Mid Michigan region.
Mr. Baradihi holds several professional designations including Chartered Financial Consultant, Chartered Life Underwriter, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, and Certified Financial Planner.
Founded in 1998 Hantz Financial Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Hantz Group. The Hantz Group is a full-service financial holding company with 24 offices in Michigan and Ohio serving over 17,000 clients with over $1 billion assets under management.
John F. Machcinski appointed President of Hantz Financial Services
Sept 26, 2005
Southfield, MI., Sept 26, 2005 – Hantz Financial Services Inc. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer John Hantz announced the appointment of John F. Machcinski to the office of President.
“John Machcinski is one of our most experienced, capable and proven leaders,“ John Hantz said. Machcinski has been with Hantz Financial Services since 1998 serving as Senior Vice President of Advanced Planning.
Mr. Machcinski holds several professional designations including Chartered Financial Consultant, Chartered Life Underwriter, Registered Employee Benefits Consultant, and Certified Financial Planner.
Founded in 1998 Hantz Financial Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Hantz Group. The Hantz Group is a full-service financial holding company with 24 offices in Michigan and Ohio serving over 17,000 clients with over $1 billion assets under management.
Hantz Financial Services announces new branch location in Marquette
Sept 19, 2005
Southfield, MI., Sept 19, 2005 – Hantz Financial Services Inc. a subsidiary of the Hantz Group announced the opening of a new branch location.
The new branch, which is a relocation of an existing office will be located at 1601 Marquette, Bay City, MI. (989)686-5930.
“We are extremely excited about this move. The tri cities have been an integral part of our growth. With the additional space we have in the new office we will continue to grow and serve the Bay City community.” Fadi Baradihi, General Sales Manager, said.
Founded in 1998 Hantz Financial Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Hantz Group. The Hantz Group is a full-service financial holding company with 24 offices in Michigan and Ohio serving over 17,000 clients with over $1 billion assets under management.
Hantz Financial Services takes part in a relay fund-raiser for the American Cancer Society
August 1, 2005
Southfield, MI., August 1, 2005 – Hantz Financial Services Inc. a subsidiary of the Hantz Group takes part in a relay fund-raiser for the American Cancer Society.
After 24 hours of ceremony, heart-touching stories and shameless money raising, Midland's Relay for Life raised $195,253, far surpassing organizers' $155,000 goal.
“I'm sure it's going to go up. It always does,” said Arthur W. Dunham III, co-chairperson for the American Cancer Society's relay. He believes the relay will raise at least $200,000 when all the late donations are in.
Dunham's Wolverine Interiors team was top money-raising team with $26,619. Second was The Dow Chemical Co. with $19,106, third the Hantz Group with $17,562, fourth a brand-new team called the Lemonaides with $11,266. Meijer rounded out the top five with $11,049.
Hantz also had the top individual money raiser, Charlene Donovan, who raised $4,149.
Dunham believes the success came from a strong community effort that's getting the word out and getting people involved.
“I think the community of Midland is starting to embrace this event,” he said.
Founded in 1998 Hantz Financial Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Hantz Group. The Hantz Group is a full-service financial holding company with 24 offices in Michigan and Ohio serving over 17,000 clients with over $1 billion assets under management.
