“The CBA is looking for solid ownership groups who receive a great deal of community support for professional basketball to be played in a quality arena in their market, and we have definitely found that combination here in Muskegon,” stated Commissioner Hunter at today’s press conference. “Jannie Scott and her husband Arthur have been very successful in the fast food industry in this region, and their CBA endeavor has been extremely well received by the corporate and political sectors, in addition to all media outlets.”

Scott, who becomes the first African-American female majority owner of a professional sports franchise, has played a major role in the Muskegon community and currently serves on the Board of Directors for Mercy General Hospital and Muskegon Workforce Development. Additionally, she has served on the Board of Directors for the Downtown Muskegon Business Association, Muskegon County Health Project, Muskegon Museum of Arts, Mocho/Oceana Housing Committee, and the Urban League of Greater Muskegon. The mother of four children and wife of 37 years, Scott has also dedicated a great deal of her time to Ronald McDonald’s Children Charities, Muskegon County Public Schools, Every Women’s Place of Muskegon, and the Western Lung Society.

“I would first like to express my gratitude to the city and the community of Muskegon for their support, and most of all to my husband for being very supportive through this process,” said Scott, who owns several McDonald’s in Western Michigan in addition to other business initiatives. “I must also say thank you to the Commissioner and the CBA Board of Directors for approving me as a partner; I was so excited when I was told that Muskegon was approved.

“Our primary goals will be to create jobs and help business development in downtown Muskegon, and to entertain families in this community in filled arenas for every game.”